põhikäskud

Põhikäskud, meaning "Ten Commandments" in Estonian, refers to a set of biblical commandments given by God to Moses. These commandments are central to Judaism and Christianity and are found in the Book of Exodus and Deuteronomy in the Old Testament. The commandments cover a range of moral and religious duties, emphasizing the worship of God and proper conduct towards others.

The first few commandments focus on the exclusive worship of God, prohibiting the worship of other deities, the making of idols, and the misuse of God's name. They also establish the observance of the Sabbath day as a day of rest and worship. The subsequent commandments address interpersonal relationships and societal ethics. These include the commandment to honor one's parents, as well as prohibitions against murder, adultery, theft, and bearing false witness. The final commandments address covetousness, forbidding the desire for what belongs to others.

Across different religious traditions and denominations, there can be variations in how the Ten Commandments are enumerated and interpreted. However, their overarching theme remains the foundation of a righteous life and a moral society, guiding believers in their relationship with God and with their fellow human beings. They are considered a core expression of divine law and a timeless ethical framework.