On the economic empowerment of ancient Israel : the Ten Words in Exodus 20:1-17 deconstructed

Abstract

The Decalogue, or Ten Words, has been studied extensively albeit hesitantly, focusing mostly on its authoritative and enduring status. Scholarly enquiry has not fully considered the outcome of adherence to the prohibitions and to the instruction to toil diligently for six days, particularly as it may impact on the requirements for daily life on earth and how that may empower the Israelite/s economically. This study has considered the widest possible spectrum of meaning of the Hebrew lexeme by a deconstructionist reading of Exod 20:1-17 to ascertain whether the Ten Words promoted economic activity directly or indirectly, but being mindful not to search for such meaning with a predetermined and fixed agenda. The Ten Words cautioned against the exchange of economic incarceration of the Israelites in Egypt for an enslavement to gods of human design and from disenfranchising fellow Israelites. There were no formulae of how to conduct business successfully but the prohibitions prevented the individual from erring which not only disadvantaged the person and his/her family, but ultimately threatened the covenantal relationship of the Israelite nation with YHWH on which occupation of the Promised Land hinged. Reneging on the prohibitions syphoned resources from the nation which disabled economic prowess. The brief phrase of toiling in such a way that goals should be achieved by the start of the Sabbath, may not have received the emphasis in terms of economic success which it deserves, especially in context of the incomprehensible perfection of the outcome of the process of creation by YHWH in the period of six days. The findings by deconstructionist reading of the text were inconclusive in respect of the ongoing activity of hermeneutical analysis.