Deuteronomy 10:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 10:2
2 And I will write on the tables the words that were in the first tables which thou brakest, and thou shalt put them in the ark.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 10 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, worship, judgment. 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 10:2
2 And I will write on the tables the words that were in the first tables which thou brakest, and thou shalt put them in the ark.
Analysis
And I will write on the tables the words that were in the first tables which thou brakest, and thou shalt put them in the ark. God Himself will write the law again - this is pure grace, as Israel deserved no second chance. The LORD takes responsibility for renewing what human sin destroyed.
The phrase the words that were in the first tables emphasizes continuity - covenant renewal does not mean covenant revision. The same unchanging moral law will be inscribed. God accommodates human failure not by lowering standards but by providing renewed access to His covenant.
The command put them in the ark ensures permanent preservation of God's written revelation. The ark serves as throne, footstool, and archive for God's covenant document. This honored placement demonstrates that God's word deserves careful preservation and honored position among His people.
The broken first tablets testified to covenant violation; the renewed tablets testify to covenant grace. That God provides new tablets despite Israel's unworthiness previews the New Covenant, where God writes His law on hearts (Jeremiah 31:33) rather than tablets.
Historical Context
Moses ascended Mount Sinai a second time to receive replacement tablets. This second giving of the law occurred after extended intercession and Israel's repentance. The new tablets were eventually placed in the gold-covered ark within the tabernacle's Most Holy Place.
These tablets remained with Israel throughout their history, symbolizing God's abiding covenant relationship despite the nation's ongoing unfaithfulness.
Reflection
- What does God's personal writing of the law reveal about its authority and origin?
- How does the unchanged content of renewed covenant demonstrate God's unchanging standards?
- What is the significance of carefully preserving and honoring God's written word?
- How do the renewed tablets preview the New Covenant promise of law written on hearts?
- Why is it crucial that covenant renewal comes from God's initiative, not human effort?
Word Studies
- Word: דָּבָר (Davar) H1697 - Word, thing, matter
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 1 Kings 8:9