The Rabbi Sacks Legacy To Thank Before We Think (Rabbi Sacks on Yitro, Covenant & Conversation)
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Feb 3, 2026 A reflection on the Ten Commandments as an ancient treaty structure and their grouping into themes of God, creation and society. A focus on why coveting stands apart as an inner, violent force that fuels rivalry and antisemitism. A case for gratitude as the practical antidote to envy, transforming personal life away from competition and consumption.
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Structure Of The Ten Utterances
- The Ten Commandments function as a covenantal outline followed by detailed laws in Mishpatim, mirroring ancient suzerainty treaties.
- Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks connects the structure to principles about God, createdness, and social institutions.
Why Coveting Is Commanded
- The tenth commandment uniquely forbids an internal emotion: envy, not an external act or speech.
- Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks asks why a feeling can be commanded and shows its social importance.
Biblical Examples Of Envy's Harm
- Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks cites biblical examples where envy produced violence, including Cain and Joseph's brothers.
- He links these stories to the broader social dangers of mimetic desire described by René Girard.
