What Are The 10 Commandments In The KJV Bible?

What Are The 10 Commandments In The KJV Bible

Written by Sam

I am Pastor Samuel Harris, the founder and main contributor to this blog. My journey with the Bible and its teachings began at a young age, ultimately leading me to pursue a degree in Theology, and eventually, to my present calling as a pastor.

Last Updated On September 2, 2024

When I think about the foundations of Christian faith and ethics, the Ten Commandments naturally come to mind. These ancient laws, given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai, have shaped not only the religious life of believers but also the moral fabric of societies throughout history. But what makes these commandments so enduring, so universally recognized, even by those outside the Christian faith?

The Ten Commandments, as recorded in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, hold a special place in my heart. They are more than just a set of rules; they are a covenant—a divine agreement between God and His people. These commandments are the bedrock of moral conduct, not only for the Israelites who first received them but also for us today, as we seek to live lives that honor God.

In this post, I want to explore the Ten Commandments as they are presented in the KJV Bible. We’ll get into the historical context, examine each commandment in detail, and reflect on their relevance in our daily lives. Whether you’re familiar with these commandments or discovering them for the first time, I hope this exploration will provide clarity, inspiration, and perhaps even a fresh perspective on these timeless words.

Let’s begin this journey by understanding the historical moment when these commandments were given and why they are so central to our faith.

Historical Context

To fully grasp the significance of the Ten Commandments, it’s essential to start with their origin—a dramatic and pivotal moment in biblical history. The story unfolds in the Book of Exodus, where the Israelites, having recently been delivered from slavery in Egypt, find themselves camped at the base of Mount Sinai. This moment is not just about receiving a set of laws; it is about the establishment of a covenant, a binding agreement between God and His chosen people.

Imagine the scene: the mountain is shrouded in smoke, thunder roars, lightning flashes, and the sound of a trumpet grows louder and louder. The people tremble with fear as they witness the awesome presence of God. It is in this powerful context that God calls Moses to ascend the mountain to receive the commandments that will guide His people.

The Ten Commandments were given at a critical juncture in the life of the Israelites. After centuries of bondage in Egypt, they were finally free, but with that freedom came the need for a new identity and a new way of life. The commandments were God’s way of defining what it meant to live as His people, to be holy as He is holy. They weren’t just rules; they were a blueprint for living in a way that honored God and reflected His character.

The Role of the Law in the Old Testament

The Ten Commandments are part of a larger body of law known as the Torah , which includes not only moral laws but also civil and ceremonial regulations. The Torah was central to the identity of Israel as a nation set apart by God. However, the Ten Commandments stand out because they were spoken directly by God to the people and later inscribed by His own hand on two tablets of stone (Exodus 31:18).

The commandments can be divided into two categories: the first four commandments focus on the relationship between God and humanity, while the remaining six address human relationships. This division underscores the holistic nature of the law, which governs not only spiritual matters but also social interactions.

The significance of the Ten Commandments extends beyond the specific laws themselves; they represent God’s desire for a covenantal relationship with His people. Unlike the laws of surrounding nations, which were often arbitrary or oppressive, the commandments were given out of love and with the intention of fostering a just and compassionate community.

In the Old Testament, the law was not merely a set of rules but a way of life that reflected the character of God. The Israelites were called to be a “kingdom of priests and a holy nation” (Exodus 19:6), and the commandments were their guide to living in such a way that they would bring glory to God and serve as a light to the nations.

As we move forward, I’ll break down each of the Ten Commandments as they appear in the King James Version of the Bible. We’ll explore the depth and meaning behind each commandment, and how they continue to speak into our lives today.

The Ten Commandments in the KJV Bible

The Ten Commandments, or the Decalogue as they are sometimes called, are recorded in two key passages in the Old Testament: Exodus 20:1-17 and Deuteronomy 5:6-21. These passages are almost identical, with only slight variations in wording. Both versions are found in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, a translation that has profoundly influenced Christian faith and practice since its publication in 1611.

In these commandments, God reveals His will for how we should relate to Him and to one another. The first four commandments focus on our relationship with God, while the last six govern our relationships with others. This dual focus reflects the two greatest commandments that Jesus later emphasized: to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-40).

Let’s walk through each of these commandments as they appear in the KJV, exploring their meanings and implications for our lives today.

Detailed Breakdown of Each Commandment

First Commandment:

Thou shalt have no other gods before me. (Exodus 20:3)

Meaning: This commandment establishes the foundation of monotheism—the belief in one God. It demands exclusive devotion to the Lord, rejecting the worship of any other gods, whether they be idols, deities, or even modern-day “gods” like wealth, power, or fame.

Implication: In a world filled with distractions and competing loyalties, this commandment calls us to prioritize our relationship with God above all else. It challenges us to examine where our true allegiance lies.

Second Commandment:

Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath… (Exodus 20:4-6)

Meaning: This commandment prohibits the creation and worship of idols or images representing God. It emphasizes that God is spirit and cannot be reduced to a physical form or limited by human imagination.

Implication: This commandment warns against the dangers of idolatry, not only in the literal sense but also in a broader sense—anything we elevate above God in our lives can become an idol. It calls us to worship God in spirit and truth.

Third Commandment:

Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. (Exodus 20:7)

Meaning: Taking the Lord’s name in vain means using it in a disrespectful or irreverent manner, whether through cursing, false oaths, or casual, thoughtless speech. This commandment upholds the sanctity of God’s name.

Implication: We are called to speak God’s name with reverence and to use it in ways that honor Him. This commandment encourages us to reflect on our speech and how we represent God in our words.

Fourth Commandment:

Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God… (Exodus 20:8-11)

Meaning: The Sabbath is a day set apart for rest and worship, a time to cease from labor and focus on God. This commandment reminds us of the rhythm of work and rest that God established at creation.

Implication: In our fast-paced, always-on society, the Sabbath is a gift that allows us to slow down, rest, and reconnect with God. It invites us to trust in God’s provision and to recognize that our worth is not tied to our productivity.

Fifth Commandment:

Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee. (Exodus 20:12)

Meaning: This commandment emphasizes the importance of respecting and honoring our parents. It is the first commandment with a promise—that those who honor their parents will enjoy a long and prosperous life.

Implication: Honoring our parents goes beyond obedience; it involves showing them respect, care, and appreciation. This commandment also speaks to the broader principle of respecting authority and valuing family relationships.

Sixth Commandment:

Thou shalt not kill. (Exodus 20:13)

Meaning: This commandment prohibits the taking of innocent human life. It upholds the sanctity of life, which is created in the image of God.

Implication: While the commandment primarily refers to murder, it also challenges us to consider the value of all human life. It calls us to promote peace, protect life, and act with compassion and justice in all our dealings with others.

Seventh Commandment:

Thou shalt not commit adultery. (Exodus 20:14)

Meaning: This commandment forbids sexual relations outside the covenant of marriage. It upholds the sanctity of marriage and the faithfulness that should characterize this relationship.

Implication: In a culture that often devalues marriage and promotes casual attitudes toward sex, this commandment reminds us of the importance of fidelity and purity. It calls us to honor the commitments we make in marriage and to live lives of integrity.

Eighth Commandment:

Thou shalt not steal. (Exodus 20:15)

Meaning: This commandment prohibits taking what does not belong to us, whether through theft, fraud, or dishonesty. It upholds the principles of justice and respect for the property of others.

Implication: Stealing is not limited to physical objects; it can also include stealing time, resources, or credit for others’ work. This commandment challenges us to live with honesty, fairness, and respect in all our interactions.

Ninth Commandment:

Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. (Exodus 20:16)

Meaning: This commandment forbids lying, especially in a legal context where false testimony can lead to grave injustice. It upholds the value of truth and the need for integrity in our words.

Implication: Truth-telling is foundational to trust and healthy relationships. This commandment calls us to speak truthfully and to avoid slander, gossip, and deception in all forms.

Tenth Commandment:

Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour’s. (Exodus 20:17)

Meaning: This commandment addresses the internal attitude of covetousness—the desire for what belongs to others. It warns against the dangers of envy, greed, and discontentment.

Implication: Covetousness can lead to many other sins, as it reflects a heart that is not satisfied with God’s provision. This commandment invites us to cultivate contentment, gratitude, and trust in God’s goodness.

Comparison of Commandments in Exodus and Deuteronomy

While the Ten Commandments are presented in both Exodus and Deuteronomy, the versions are nearly identical, with only minor differences in wording. One of the most notable differences is in the Fourth Commandment, where Deuteronomy emphasizes the Sabbath as a reminder of Israel’s deliverance from Egypt, whereas Exodus connects the Sabbath to God’s creation rest.

These differences, though subtle, highlight the dual nature of the commandments: they are both a timeless moral code and a specific reminder of God’s actions in history. Whether we read them in Exodus or Deuteronomy, the commandments call us to live in a way that reflects God’s character and honors His covenant with us.

As we think about these commandments, we see that they are more than just a list of rules—they are an invitation to live in a relationship with God and with others in a way that is marked by love, respect, and holiness. In the next section, I’ll explore the deeper theological significance of these commandments and how they continue to shape our faith and lives today.

Theological Significance

When it comes to the Ten Commandments, it becomes clear that they are not just ancient laws etched in stone—they are profound moral and ethical imperatives that continue to resonate deeply in our lives today. Each commandment carries a weight that extends beyond the literal words, addressing the heart’s intentions and guiding our behavior in ways that honor God and respect others.

The first four commandments establish the foundation of our relationship with God. They teach us about the exclusive devotion God requires, the importance of worshiping Him rightly, the reverence due to His name, and the sacred rhythm of work and rest. These commandments remind us that our faith is not merely a private affair but a public declaration of loyalty to God, shaping how we live, work, and worship.

The remaining six commandments govern our interactions with others, forming the bedrock of social ethics. They call us to honor our parents, protect life, remain faithful in marriage, respect others’ property, speak truthfully, and cultivate contentment. These commandments are not just about avoiding harm; they promote the flourishing of relationships, communities, and societies.

At their core, the Ten Commandments reveal the character of God—a God of justice, mercy, and holiness—and invite us to mirror that character in our own lives. They challenge us to consider not just what we do but why we do it, calling us to live with integrity, compassion, and righteousness.

The Commandments and Jesus’ Teachings

When I turn to the New Testament, I find that Jesus didn’t merely reiterate the Ten Commandments; He deepened and expanded them, emphasizing their underlying principles. In the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), Jesus takes the commandments and pushes them into the realm of the heart, where thoughts, attitudes, and desires reside.

For example, Jesus teaches that it’s not enough to avoid murder; we must also avoid anger and contempt, which can lead to violence (Matthew 5:21-22). It’s not enough to refrain from adultery; we must also guard against lust, which violates the purity of our hearts (Matthew 5:27-28). In doing so, Jesus reveals that true obedience to the commandments involves a transformation of the inner person, not just outward conformity.

Furthermore, Jesus summarized the commandments into two overarching principles: love for God and love for neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40). These two commandments encapsulate the entire law and the prophets, showing that the heart of the commandments is relational—loving God with all that we are and loving others as we love ourselves.

This emphasis on love doesn’t diminish the commandments; rather, it fulfills them. By calling us to love, Jesus brings us back to the essence of the commandments, showing that they are not burdensome rules but life-giving guides that lead us to true freedom and joy.

The Commandments in Christian Doctrine

Insofar as the Ten Commandments in Christian doctrine are concerned, I see that they have been a cornerstone of Christian teaching and practice for centuries. They are often taught in catechism classes, recited in liturgies, and used as a framework for ethical reflection in various Christian traditions.

In many denominations, the Ten Commandments are viewed as part of God’s moral law, which remains binding on all people, even under the New Covenant. While the ceremonial and civil laws of the Old Testament may have been fulfilled or transformed by Christ, the moral law, as represented by the Ten Commandments, continues to guide Christians in their daily lives.

The Ten Commandments are also central to Christian discipleship. They serve as a mirror, reflecting our shortcomings and driving us to seek God’s grace and forgiveness. At the same time, they function as a map, showing us the path of righteousness and leading us to live in a way that pleases God.

Different Christian traditions may emphasize the commandments in various ways. For instance, the Catholic and Orthodox Churches include the Ten Commandments in their catechisms and emphasize their role in confession and penance. Protestant traditions often focus on the commandments as a guide for Christian living and a standard by which to evaluate one’s life in the light of Scripture.

In all these ways, the Ten Commandments remain a vital part of Christian doctrine, shaping our understanding of God, ourselves, and how we are called to live in this world.

The Ten Commandments are more than just a set of ancient laws; they are a living testament to God’s character and His will for our lives. They challenge us to live in a way that honors God and respects others, to pursue righteousness, and to reflect the love and holiness of God in everything we do. As we continue to meditate on these commandments, I encourage us to let their wisdom shape our hearts, guide our actions, and draw us closer to the God who gave them.

The Ten Commandments in Daily Life

As I consider how the Ten Commandments apply to our lives today, I’m struck by their timeless relevance. Despite being given thousands of years ago, these commandments continue to address the core issues of human existence—our relationship with God and our relationships with others. They offer a moral compass in a world that often seems adrift in a sea of relativism and changing values.

In our modern context, each commandment speaks to specific challenges we face. The call to worship God alone confronts the many “idols” of our time—whether materialism, technology, or even personal success. The prohibition against making graven images reminds us to avoid distorting God’s nature and instead to seek a true understanding of who He is.

The command to honor the Sabbath encourages us to resist the relentless pace of modern life, offering us a rhythm of rest that is essential for spiritual, mental, and physical well-being. In an era where family structures are often under strain, the command to honor our parents underscores the importance of maintaining strong, respectful relationships within the family.

The commandments against murder, adultery, and theft speak directly to the value of human life, the sanctity of marriage, and the necessity of respecting others’ rights and property. These principles are foundational to any just and stable society. The commandment against bearing false witness challenges us to uphold truth and integrity in all our interactions, something that is crucial in a world where misinformation can easily spread.

Finally, the commandment against covetousness is particularly relevant in our consumer-driven culture. It calls us to cultivate contentment and gratitude, rejecting the constant pressure to acquire more and instead focusing on the blessings we already have.

Personal Reflection

When I reflect on these commandments, I am reminded that they are not just about external behavior but about the condition of our hearts. Each commandment invites us to examine our motives, desires, and priorities, asking ourselves whether we are truly living in a way that honors God and reflects His love to others.

For instance, when I consider the commandment not to covet, I realize that it challenges me to look beyond surface-level actions and to address the root causes of discontentment and envy in my heart. It’s a call to trust in God’s provision and to find satisfaction in Him rather than in material possessions or status.

Similarly, the command to keep the Sabbath holy encourages me to reassess how I use my time. Am I prioritizing rest and worship, or am I caught up in the endless pursuit of productivity? This commandment invites me to slow down, to remember that my worth is not tied to what I do but to who I am in God’s eyes.

These reflections lead me to a deeper understanding of the commandments as a guide for spiritual growth and transformation. They are not just rules to follow but a path to a more meaningful, fulfilling life.

Practical Application

Incorporating the Ten Commandments into daily life involves intentionality and reflection. Here are some practical ways I’ve found to apply these timeless principles:

  • Worship God Alone: Start each day with a time of prayer and reflection, dedicating the day to God and asking for His guidance in all that you do. This practice helps to center your life around God and His purposes.
  • Avoid Idols: Regularly evaluate what holds the most importance in your life. Are there things—whether material possessions, relationships, or ambitions—that you’ve placed above your relationship with God? Make adjustments as needed to keep God at the center.
  • Reverence for God’s Name: Be mindful of how you speak about God and faith in your daily conversations. Strive to speak in a way that reflects reverence and respect for God’s name.
  • Sabbath Rest: Set aside one day each week for rest and worship. Use this time to reconnect with God, reflect on the past week, and recharge for the week ahead. This might involve attending a worship service, spending time in nature, or simply enjoying a quiet day with loved ones.
  • Honor Your Parents: Take practical steps to show appreciation and respect for your parents, whether through regular phone calls, helping with tasks, or expressing gratitude for their role in your life. If your parents are no longer living, consider ways to honor their memory.
  • Value Human Life: Promote peace and respect for life in your interactions with others. This could involve being patient in difficult situations, advocating for the vulnerable, or simply showing kindness to those around you.
  • Fidelity in Relationships: Commit to maintaining integrity and faithfulness in all your relationships. If you’re married, prioritize your relationship with your spouse, investing time and effort into keeping it strong and healthy.
  • Respect Others’ Property: Practice honesty and fairness in all your dealings, whether in business, friendships, or everyday interactions. Be mindful of respecting what belongs to others.
  • Truthfulness: Make a conscious effort to speak truthfully and to avoid gossip or slander. In situations where the truth might be difficult, seek wisdom in how to speak with both honesty and grace.
  • Cultivate Contentment: Regularly practice gratitude by reflecting on the blessings in your life. This can be done through journaling, prayer, or simply taking a few moments each day to acknowledge what you’re thankful for. Focus on what you have rather than what you lack.

Living the Commandments Daily

The Ten Commandments are not just for Sunday sermons or theological discussions—they are meant to be lived out in our daily lives. They offer a blueprint for a life that is pleasing to God, fulfilling for us, and beneficial to those around us. By applying these commandments in practical ways, we align our lives more closely with God’s will and experience the peace and joy that comes from living according to His design.

I invite you to take some time this week to meditate on the Ten Commandments and to consider how you might more fully integrate them into your life. Whether it’s through small changes in your daily routine or deeper shifts in your heart and mind, these ancient words have the power to transform our lives today, just as they did for the Israelites so many years ago.

Conclusion

As I draw this exploration of the Ten Commandments to a close, I’m reminded of their enduring power and relevance. These commandments, given by God to His people thousands of years ago, continue to speak into our lives today with clarity and authority. They are more than a set of ancient rules; they are a timeless guide for living a life that honors God and fosters healthy, respectful relationships with others.

The Ten Commandments challenge us to examine our hearts, align our actions with God’s will, and reflect His character in all we do. They call us to love God with undivided devotion, to worship Him rightly, to honor His name, and to rest in His provision. They also direct us to respect life, maintain integrity in our relationships, uphold truth, and cultivate contentment.

Living according to these commandments is not always easy in a world that often pulls us in opposite directions. But I believe that by returning to these foundational principles, we can find the strength and wisdom needed to navigate life’s complexities. The commandments remind us that true freedom is found not in following our own desires but in living within the boundaries of God’s good and perfect law.

As you reflect on the Ten Commandments, I encourage you to consider how they can shape your daily life. Whether you’re making decisions at work, interacting with loved ones, or simply navigating the challenges of everyday life, these commandments offer a compass that points us toward a life of faithfulness, integrity, and love.

Thank you for joining me on this journey through the Ten Commandments in the King James Version of the Bible. My hope is that you’ll carry these insights with you, allowing the commandments to guide and inspire you as you seek to live a life that honors God and blesses those around you. May we all strive to embody the spirit of these commandments, walking in the light of God’s truth and love each day.


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12 Comments

  1. EllaR

    Is the comparison of Commandments in Exodus and Deuteronomy showing major differences? What does it mean for how we interpret them today? Kinda curious about this part. Thanks, Sam!

    Reply
    • Sam

      Great question! The Ten Commandments appear in both Exodus 20 and Deuteronomy 5, and while they are nearly identical, there are some differences in wording and emphasis that are worth noting.

      For example, in the Fourth Commandment (regarding the Sabbath), the Exodus version ties it to God’s creation of the world in six days and resting on the seventh (Exodus 20:8-11). In Deuteronomy, however, the emphasis is placed on remembering Israel’s deliverance from slavery in Egypt (Deuteronomy 5:12-15). These differences in focus reflect the broader context of each book—Exodus highlights creation, while Deuteronomy looks back on God’s redemptive work in Israel’s history.

      As for interpreting these differences today, they remind us that the commandments are not just a list of rules but deeply connected to God’s relationship with His people. They point to His work in creation and redemption. The core principles remain the same, but these differences can help us see different aspects of God’s character and His intentions for how we live.

      Hope that helps clear things up! Feel free to ask more questions if you’re curious about anything else.

      Reply
  2. TheWatcherOnTheWall

    The detailed breakdown of each commandment provides a fascinating insight into the moral and ethical framework of ancient societies. It’s interesting to see how these commandments have been interpreted and adapted over millennia to fit the evolving context of human society. While some may argue about their relevance today, it’s undeniable that they form a foundational piece of our collective moral compass.

    Reply
    • MarkT89

      yeah but don’t you think some of these commandments are kinda outdated? like, how do we adjust them to fit our society now without losing the original message?

      Reply
    • Sam

      Thanks for sharing your thoughts! You’re absolutely right—it’s fascinating how the Ten Commandments have shaped moral and ethical standards throughout history. Even as society evolves, their core principles continue to influence modern values, reminding us of their lasting impact on our moral framework. I’m glad you found the breakdown insightful!

      Reply
    • TheWatcherOnTheWall

      An excellent point, MarkT89. It’s all about interpretation and context. The core values can still guide us without adhering to outdated societal structures.

      Reply
  3. JennyK

    love how this article makes it easy to apply these ancient rules to modern life. really helpful!

    Reply
    • Sam

      I’m glad you enjoyed it Jenny.

      Reply
  4. old_school_rick

    back in my day we just followed these commandments without questioning them not sure why we gotta make everything so complicated now

    Reply

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