Understanding 'In Vain' (shav)

The 10 Commandments E6 — Shakespeare wrote in Romeo and Juliet, “What’s in a name?” In the Bible, it turns out a lot, actually. The creator God Yahweh is the source of all life and good, so his name is the greatest name. But surprisingly, he attaches his name to Israel, a lowly nation of former slaves, and enters into a covenant with them. The covenant starts with a list of 10 commandments, or 10 words, and following these commandments will lead Israel to life and flourishing. In this episode, Tim and Jon discuss the 3rd Commandment, which is all about how Israel will carry Yahweh’s name, or represent him to one another and the surrounding nations.

FULL SHOW NOTES

For chapter-by-chapter summaries, biblical words, referenced Scriptures, and reflection questions, check out the full show notes for this episode.

CHAPTERS

1. What’s in a Name? (0:00-16:40)
2. Carrying, Bearing, and Representing (16:40-35:10)
3. What Does “in Vain” Mean? (35:10-48:42)

OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

View this episode’s official transcript.

THE 10 COMMANDMENTS BIBLEPROJECT TRANSLATION

View our full translation of the 10 Commandments.

REFERENCED RESOURCES

• Find the related animated video for this episode here.
• Bearing YHWH’s Name at Sinai: A Reexamination of the Name Command of the Decalogue by Carmen Joy Imes
• Listen to our podcast conversation with Dr. Carmen Imes on this same topic: “Taking God’s Name in Vain?”
• Check out Tim’s extensive collection of recommended books.

SHOW MUSIC

• “Planted By The River” by Lofi Sunday feat. Jk Beatbook
• “New Mercies” by Lofi Sunday feat. PAINT WITH SOUND
• BibleProject theme song by TENTS 

SHOW CREDITS

Production of today’s episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer, who also edited today’s episode and provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty writes the show notes. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.

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