The answer is: 2

Deut 5:22

The delivery of the Ten Commandments is one of the most well-known scenes in the Bible, marked by thunder and lightning on Mount Sinai. It’s fascinating to note that they were inscribed on two tablets of stone, signifying the dual nature of these laws—they encompass both our relationship with the Divine and our relationships with each other.

These two tablets represent the balance in human life: the first tablet contained commandments focused on God, helping define our spiritual responsibilities. The second tablet was concerned with interpersonal ethics; how we treat one another shapes our community. This arrangement has inspired many throughout history, signaling that your spiritual practice is intertwined with social justice.

Interesting trivia: Did you know that these commandments have flavors in many cultures? They echo throughout various traditions, not just within the Biblical text. For instance, the concept of ethical conduct is found in the Code of Hammurabi, predating the commandments.

Also worth noting, the original Hebrew text features a poetic structure that underscores the importance of these guidelines. Where some commandments are strict prohibitions (like no stealing or committing adultery), others are more about providing a framework leading to a well-ordered society.

Ultimately, these two tablets symbolize the overarching principle of harmony that encompasses moral duty—showing us that spirituality is deeply interconnected with the way we interact in our daily lives. Let that kind of harmony guide your actions and reflections!