If we’re going to look at the Ten Commandments, or indeed the Bible, as important to American history, we have to acknowledge the emphasis on the commandments is particular to a peculiar bent of Christianity. The Christianity that wants to put certain people in charge, and to be in charge of others.
And.besides, if the idea is that America is a Christian nation, why not emphasize the words of Jesus?
“Congratulations, you poor! God's domain belongs to you!
“Congratulations, you hungry! You will have a feast.”
“ Congratulations, you who weep now! You will laugh.”
I actually think those are a lot clearer than “Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s ass.” Which, like “ Don we now our gay apparel,” means something quite different than it did originally.
And of course, we have to include the curses: 🤬
“Damn you rich! You already have your consolation!
“Damn you who are well-fed now! You will know hunger.
“Damn you who laugh now! You will learn to weep and grieve.”
I’m sure there’d be some initial objection to the language itself. But it would be instructive to have a discussion on what these curses mean. As well as the clear symmetry of the congratulations and the damnations. These are also easier to understand on their face than what “taking God’s name in vain” means; or what adultery is; or what “graven images” are (and why we allow them). The main objection, however, would probably be that it undermines “law and order,” which is the usual reason for promoting the commandments (out of context, frankly). The Beatitudes, in other words, don’t promote control of the many by the few.
Of course, all of this actually belongs in the context of a faith community. These are not words to be bandied idly, turned into false idols, worshipped for how we think they give us power. That’s why I prefer makarioi (Luke’s Greek, translated here as “congratulations. “Poor,” by the way, is ptochoi,” or “destitute.” Those with nothing.) over “Thou shalt not.” But I also prefer the word of God not be treated like advertising slogans or virtue signals. It ignores their meaning entirely, and disrespects their purpose.
