Commandment

In the Bible, the term "commandment" generally refers to a divine instruction or directive given by God to His people. The most prominent examples are found in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17), which serve as fundamental moral laws intended to guide the ethical conduct of the Israelites. The Hebrew word for commandment, "mitzvah" (מצווה), denotes an authoritative order or a decree that requires obedience. It is not merely a suggestion but a binding obligation, reflecting God's sovereignty and the covenant relationship between Him and His people.The concept of commandments extends beyond the Ten Commandments to encompass a broader range of laws and instructions found throughout the Torah and the rest of the Scriptures. For example, Jesus summarized the commandments in the New Testament by emphasizing the importance of loving God and loving one’s neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40). In this way, commandments are understood not only as legal stipulations but as expressions of God's will aimed at fostering a loving and just community. The fulfillment of these commandments is seen as integral to living a life that is pleasing to God and beneficial to others.