In history, countless legal documents have come and gone. However, one particular treatise has endured the test of time—The Ten Commandments. Rabbi Morris Joseph, a prominent British figure of the 19th-20th century, once remarked, „These commandments are inscribed on the walls of synagogues and churches; they are the universal laws that will never cease to exist.”
Amongst the Ten Commandments, there is one that may seem less prominent in today’s world but holds contemporary significance—the second commandment against idolatry. It states, „You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make unto you a graven image, nor any likeness of anything in the heaven above, or on the earth, or in the water … you shall not bow down to them nor serve them.” (Exodus 20:3-5) This commandment warns against idols that distract us from our higher purposes.
While the initial interpretation pertains to physical objects, celestial bodies, and animals, its relevance today extends further. In the modern era, humanity has created idols of greater influence, diverting our attention from the true essence of life—serving a higher power.
One such idol is material wealth, manifesting in extravagant homes, flashy cars, and fashionable attire. It may grant temporary popularity, yet its allure quickly fades. Power, another prevalent idol, captivates certain individuals who relish authority over others in their professional or organizational lives. The current election season serves as a testament to the extent politicians are driven by this idol, though its grasp tends to be short-lived.
However, the most consuming idol of our time is undoubtedly technology, with the ubiquitous iPhone at its forefront. Its influence on people’s lives is unparalleled. Young individuals traverse the world clutching their iPhones, afraid to miss out on anything. The iPhone has replaced books, newspapers, and even the simple act of writing a heartfelt letter or thank you note, reducing communication to impersonal text messages. This contemporary idol erodes our humanity.
Hence, it is crucial for all of us, myself included, to occasionally set aside this idol. Doing so grants us the opportunity to immerse ourselves in nature—the world shaped by a higher power—and truly connect with other individuals.
By consciously breaking free from the grip of modern idols, we rediscover the value of genuine human interaction and embrace the wonders of the natural world—ultimately fulfilling the essence of the Ten Commandments and our timeless purpose.
FAQ:
1. What is the main focus of the article?
The main focus of the article is the second commandment against idolatry from the Ten Commandments and its contemporary significance.
2. What does the second commandment state?
The second commandment states, „You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make unto you a graven image, nor any likeness of anything in the heaven above, or on the earth, or in the water … you shall not bow down to them nor serve them.”
3. How does the interpretation of the second commandment extend beyond physical objects?
While the initial interpretation pertains to physical objects, celestial bodies, and animals, the article argues that its relevance today extends further to idols of material wealth, power, and technology.
4. What are some examples of contemporary idols?
Examples of contemporary idols include material wealth, power, and technology, with the iPhone being the most consuming idol of our time.
5. How does technology, specifically the iPhone, impact people’s lives?
The iPhone and technology, in general, have unparalleled influence on people’s lives. It has replaced traditional forms of communication and reduced human interaction to impersonal text messages.
6. Why is it important to set aside modern idols?
Setting aside modern idols allows individuals to reconnect with nature, engage in genuine human interaction, and fulfill the essence of the Ten Commandments and their timeless purpose.
Key Terms:
– Treatise: A written work dealing formally and systematically with a specific subject.
– Synagogues: Jewish houses of worship.
– Idolatry: The worship of idols or excessive admiration or love for something or someone.
– Prominent: Widely known or eminent in a particular field.
– Graven image: Carved or sculpted representation of a god.
Suggested Related Link:
Exodus 20
The source of the article is from the blog trebujena.net