How Many Laws Are in the Bible?
Quick Summary:
Jewish tradition holds that there are 613 laws in the Torah, the first five books of the Bible. These include 248 positive commands and 365 prohibitions, forming the foundation of Israel’s covenant life and shaping the moral and spiritual vision of Scripture.
The Meaning of “Law” in the Bible
When people hear the word law, they often think of rules and restrictions. But in Scripture, the word carries a deeper meaning. The Hebrew word Torah means instruction or guidance. God’s law is a revelation of the Divine will and wisdom for living.
The law teaches what it means to love God and neighbor, to live justly, and to honor life. It shapes the rhythm of worship and community. Far from being a burden, the law is described as a gift—“The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul” (Psalm 19:7).
How Many Laws Are in the Torah?
The traditional Jewish count of 613 commandments—known as the mitzvot—comes from rabbinic teaching, especially from the writings of Maimonides (12th century). His work Sefer HaMitzvot, carefully categorized every divine instruction found in the Torah.
These include:
248 positive commands (“You shall”)
365 negative commands (“You shall not”)
Together they symbolize wholeness: 248 corresponding to the parts of the human body (according to ancient understanding), and 365 representing the days of the year. In this way, obedience to God was understood as a daily, whole-life calling.
Examples include:
“You shall have no other gods before me” (Exodus 20:3)
“Honor your father and your mother” (Exodus 20:12)
“You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13)
“Love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18)
These laws cover moral, ceremonial, and civil life—defining everything from worship practices and dietary laws to ethics, purity, and social justice.
The Purpose of the Law
The law was given not to enslave but to set free. It helped shape Israel as a people set apart for God’s purposes. Through obedience, they reflected God’s holiness in the world. The law was a covenantal framework—both a boundary and a blessing.
The prophets often reminded Israel that obedience was never about ritual alone. What God desired was faithfulness of heart: “I desire steadfast love and not sacrifice, the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings” (Hosea 6:6).
The law’s ultimate purpose was to point toward God’s righteousness and humanity’s need for grace. It prepared the way for Christ, who fulfilled the law through perfect love and obedience.
The Law in the New Testament
Jesus affirmed the law but transformed how it was understood. “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill” (Matthew 5:17). He summarized the entire law in two commands:
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.”
“You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:37–40)
The Apostle Paul later explained that “love is the fulfilling of the law” (Romans 13:10). Through Christ, believers are no longer bound by the ceremonial aspects of the Mosaic Law but are called to live by its moral and spiritual heart.
The Law as a Mirror and a Guide
Throughout history, theologians have described the law as both mirror and guide. It shows humanity its sin and need for grace, but it also directs believers toward righteousness and wisdom.
Psalm 119, the longest chapter in the Bible, celebrates this truth. Nearly every verse mentions God’s law, testimonies, or commandments, expressing joy in obedience. The psalmist writes, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105).
For Christians, the law remains holy and good—not as a means of earning salvation but as a reflection of God’s unchanging character. It leads to Christ, who fulfills and embodies it perfectly.
FAQ
Why 613 laws?
The number 613 comes from rabbinic tradition, symbolizing completeness. The positive and negative commands together represent total devotion—heart, body, and life.
Do Christians follow all 613 laws?
No. Christians believe that Jesus fulfilled the law. Moral principles still apply, but ceremonial and civil laws specific to ancient Israel no longer bind the church.
What is the difference between law and grace?
Law reveals what holiness requires. Grace provides what holiness demands. The two are not opposites but partners—law shows the need, and grace meets it in Christ.
