Monday, February 26, 2024

Decalogue

Haiku for living well


Moses reports back

to the people, having spent

time in God’s presence.


Ten words from the Lord.

The first: God is one; you shall

have no other gods.


The Lord rescued you

from slavery in Egypt.

You need none other.


Respect the Lord’s name,

don’t misuse, speak it loosely,

God will be angry.


One day in seven

shall be a sabbath; no one

should work on that day.


In the story told

of how the world came to be,

God himself took rest.


When people grow old

that doesn’t mean they’re useless;

honour your parents.


You shall not murder.

Be faithful in your marriage.

Don’t steal from others.


Always be truthful.

Don’t lie to seek advantage

over your neighbour.


Don’t waste energy

covetting what isn’t yours;

it gets you nowhere.


© Ken Rookes 2024

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