The terms of the covenant (promises between God and his people) describe how the people were expected to behave if they were to be in a covenant with God. The first four instructions relate directly to God (20:2–11). The last six are about relationships between people (20:12–17).
A covenant with God explains how we should treat one another. God is deeply concerned with what is right and wrong. He expects his people to show his character in all their relationships.
Other law codes in the ancient Near East did not include such strong and absolute commands. This may be because polytheism (belief in many gods) does not support one clear and final standard for everyone.
In contrast, covenants made with a human king often included absolute commands. A single king could demand complete obedience from his subjects.
In Israel’s covenant, the one King is the Creator of the universe. He alone has the full authority to declare what is right and wrong. Because of who he is, he can give absolute principles, commands, and prohibitions.