“And I made an ark of shittim wood, and hewed two tables of stone like unto the first, and went up into the mount, having the two tables in mine hand.”
Deuteronomy 10:3 is part of a larger passage where Moses recounts the events following the Israelites’ journey out of Egypt and their disobedience that led to the breaking of the original tablets of the Ten Commandments. In this verse, Moses describes how he made a new ark and hewed two stone tablets similar to the first ones, which were shattered due to the people’s transgressions.
This verse takes place after the Israelites’ worship of the golden calf, an act of idolatry that deeply displeased God. When Moses descended from Mount Sinai, carrying the original tablets containing the Ten Commandments, he found the Israelites engaged in idolatrous worship. In his anger, Moses threw down the tablets, breaking them as a symbol of the people’s violation of God’s covenant.
After this incident, Moses was commanded by God to make another set of tablets, and he used acacia wood (referred to as “shittim wood” in the KJV) to construct an ark. This ark was designed to house the stone tablets, signifying the covenant between God and the Israelites. Moses then ascended the mountain once again, carrying the newly carved tablets.
The significance of this verse lies in the restoration of the covenant relationship between God and His people. Despite their unfaithfulness, God showed mercy and provided the opportunity for repentance and renewal. Moses’ act of crafting new tablets demonstrates God’s willingness to give the Israelites a second chance, emphasizing His mercy and forgiveness.
This passage also teaches us important lessons about obedience, the consequences of disobedience, and the possibility of restoration through repentance. It reveals God’s desire for His people to abide by His commandments and His patience in allowing them to make amends for their mistakes.
Overall, Deuteronomy 10:3 reminds us of God’s faithfulness and grace in giving us opportunities for redemption and restoration, even when we fail to uphold His commandments. It serves as a call to obedience and a reminder of the importance of cherishing and following God’s instructions.
