Book of Deuteronomy - Chapter 5 - Verse 7

When the Bible says "Thou shalt have none other gods before me," it is emphasizing the exclusive nature of God's position in the life of believers. This commandment is a reminder that God is to be the only object of worship and adoration in the lives of His people. By placing no other gods before Him, believers are acknowledging God's supreme authority and sovereignty over all creation. This commandment serves as a call for undivided loyalty and devotion to God, as He alone is worthy of our worship and praise. It is a foundational principle in the Christian faith that sets the tone for a relational and covenantal connection between God and His people. By obeying this commandment, believers demonstrate their commitment to God as the one true God, above all other false gods or idols that may seek to take His place in their lives.

In the theological interpretation of the verse "Thou shalt have none other gods before me," the phrase "before me" is key to understanding its significance. It implies not just a chronological order but a priority of worship. In this context, "before me" means that no other gods should be worshipped in place of or alongside the one true God. This commandment underscores the exclusivity of worship that God demands from His people. The word "gods" in the original Hebrew text refers to any deity or object of worship, whether real or perceived. By stating that there should be no other gods before Him, God asserts His position as the supreme and only deserving object of worship. This commandment sets the foundation for monotheism in the Judeo-Christian tradition, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness and loyalty to the one true God.