The introduction to the book of Deuteronomy at 1:1-5 described the contents of the book as Moses' exposition of the torah. At last he makes a start of this exposition, by recalling the Ten Commandments, the most fundamental expression of the covenant already established between Israel and Yahweh at Horeb (Sinai). The bulk of this chapter—and forming its centre—is taken up by the Ten Commandments (vv5b-21). It is, however, book-ended by an introductory summon and an extended epilogue recounting Israel's experience at Horeb, that together serve to remind GenB of Moses' legitimacy as their mediator as well as the legitimacy of what he now declares to them.
Low Chai Hok
©Alberith, 2017