Exodus 20:3
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 20:3
3 Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
Chapter Context
Exodus 20 is a legal covenant chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, truth, judgment. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
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 21-26: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it presents the Decalogue (Ten Commandments) as the cornerstone of biblical law. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 20:3
3 Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
Analysis
Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
The first word is singular 'Thou' (לֹא יִהְיֶה־לְךָ, lo yihyeh lekha)—God addresses each Israelite personally. 'No other gods' acknowledges rival claimants exist but denies their legitimacy. 'Before me' (עַל־פָּנָי, al-panai) literally 'before my face' or 'in my presence'—since God is omnipresent, this means 'anywhere, ever.' The command establishes monotheism as covenant foundation. It's not philosophical monotheism ('only one God exists') but covenantal monotheism ('YHWH alone is YOUR God'). The New Testament expands this: our God is money, comfort, approval, self—whatever commands ultimate allegiance. Jesus declares serving two masters impossible (Matthew 6:24). The first commandment is also greatest (Matthew 22:38).
Historical Context
In a polytheistic ancient Near East where every nation had patron deities, this radical monotheism set Israel apart. The command doesn't deny other gods' existence but their authority—YHWH alone deserves worship.
Reflection
- What rival 'gods' compete for ultimate allegiance in your life (money, comfort, approval)?
- How does Jesus' declaration that we cannot serve two masters apply this commandment today?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: Deuteronomy 5:7, 6:5, 6:14, Psalms 81:9, Isaiah 46:9, Jeremiah 25:6