What are the 10 commandments in the bible in order

what are the 10 commandments in the bible in order

What are the 10 Commandments in the Bible in order?

Answer:

The Ten Commandments are a set of religious and ethical principles that hold significant importance in both Judaism and Christianity. These commandments were given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai, as described in the books of Exodus and Deuteronomy in the Old Testament. Here is a detailed description of the Ten Commandments in their traditional order:

  1. You shall have no other gods before me.

    • This commandment stresses monotheism, affirming the belief in one, single deity. It forbids the worship of other gods.

      Reference: Exodus 20:3, Deuteronomy 5:7

  2. You shall not make for yourself an idol.

    • This command prohibits the creation of idols or images for worship. It emphasizes the need to worship God directly, without the use of physical representations.

      Reference: Exodus 20:4-6, Deuteronomy 5:8-10

  3. You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.

    • This commandment forbids using God’s name disrespectfully or irreverently, including using it in oaths or casual exclamations.

      Reference: Exodus 20:7, Deuteronomy 5:11

  4. Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.

    • This commandment instructs to observe the Sabbath, a day of rest and worship, typically observed from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset in Judaism and on Sunday in Christianity.

      Reference: Exodus 20:8-11, Deuteronomy 5:12-15

  5. Honor your father and your mother.

    • This commandment emphasizes the importance of respecting and honoring one’s parents. It is often associated with the promise of a long life.

      Reference: Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16

  6. You shall not murder.

    • This commandment prohibits the unlawful taking of another person’s life.

      Reference: Exodus 20:13, Deuteronomy 5:17

  7. You shall not commit adultery.

    • This commandment forbids marital infidelity and promotes the sanctity and exclusivity of the marital relationship.

      Reference: Exodus 20:14, Deuteronomy 5:18

  8. You shall not steal.

    • This commandment prohibits taking what does not belong to you, upholding the value of honesty and respect for others’ property.

      Reference: Exodus 20:15, Deuteronomy 5:19

  9. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.

    • This commandment forbids lying or giving false testimony, particularly in a legal setting. It stresses the importance of truthfulness.

      Reference: Exodus 20:16, Deuteronomy 5:20

  10. You shall not covet.

    • This commandment prohibits the desire for or envy of others’ possessions, relationships, or status. It encourages contentment and gratitude for what one has.

      Reference: Exodus 20:17, Deuteronomy 5:21


The Ten Commandments form the ethical foundation in Judeo-Christian tradition and have influenced modern legal and moral codes. Each commandment provides clear, concise instructions for moral conduct and reverence towards God and fellow human beings.