Deuteronomy 10:1
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 10:1
1 At that time the LORD said unto me, Hew thee two tables of stone like unto the first, and come up unto me into the mount, and make thee an ark of wood.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 10 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, creation, holiness. Written during the end of the wilderness wandering (c. 1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Moses delivered these speeches as Israel prepared to enter a land filled with different Canaanite city-states.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Deuteronomy and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Deuteronomy 10:1
1 At that time the LORD said unto me, Hew thee two tables of stone like unto the first, and come up unto me into the mount, and make thee an ark of wood.
Analysis
At that time the LORD said unto me, Hew thee two tables of stone like unto the first, and come up unto me into the mount, and make thee an ark of wood. God's command to prepare new tablets demonstrates covenant renewal after Israel's sin. The initiative comes from God - He provides opportunity for restoration despite Israel's breach.
The phrase like unto the first indicates the renewed covenant maintains the same terms as the original. God does not lower His standards or modify His law to accommodate human weakness. The moral requirements remain unchanged; what changes is provision for renewed relationship despite violation.
The command to make thee an ark of wood introduces the container for the tablets. This ark (not yet the elaborate gold-covered ark of the tabernacle) would preserve God's written word, symbolizing that divine revelation must be protected and honored.
Reformed theology sees covenant renewal after sin as preview of gospel grace. Though the law remains unchanged, God provides means for sinners to be restored to covenant relationship through mediatorial work - Moses in the type, Christ in the antitype.
Historical Context
This occurred after Moses' successful intercession following the golden calf incident. God's willingness to renew the covenant demonstrated His commitment to the patriarchal promises and His purpose to preserve a people for Himself despite their rebellion.
The tablets and ark would become central symbols of God's covenant presence with Israel, eventually housed in the Most Holy Place of the tabernacle.
Reflection
- What does God's initiative in covenant renewal reveal about His character and purposes?
- How does the unchanged content of the law demonstrate God's unchanging standards?
- What is the significance of preparing a container to preserve God's written word?
- How does covenant renewal in the Old Testament preview gospel restoration?
- Why must God provide the means for restoring broken relationship with Him?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord