decalogue
title given to the Ten Commandments, as set out in Exodus 20and Deuteronomy 5: 6-21. Their concerns can be summarised as follows:
1. Don't abandon the source of all life and purpose in the interests of shorter term goals and loyalties. God really is larger than life.
2. Don't allow yourselves to be seduced by visual display, however captivating. The fullness of God is even richer.
3. Don't talk of God in ways that are careless of the reality behind the words.
4. Take care to observe regular space for rest and play, when you will not be distracted by working routines. Sabbatical time is important for everyone, if we are genuinely to appreciate the world we have been given!
5. Have regard for your parents and the community which has built you up.
6. Don't ever treat human life as cheap.
7. Don't break the trust of sexual commitment.
8. Don't take what doesn't belong to you.
9. Don't misrepresent others in gossip or distortions of the truth.
10. Don't be greedy for the possessions and experiences of others.
They have been important for Jews and Christians alike. Children have often be encouraged to memorise them, hence their being displayed on the walls of some churches.
See also:
commandments