There is a powerful biblical and theological concept called “self-examination” or “moral inventory,” and when done through the lens of the Ten Commandments, it becomes a form of covenant alignment or Torah reflection.
But more specifically, the word you might be looking for—especially in Christian or Hebraic practice—is:
“Examination of Conscience”
Definition:
A spiritual practice of measuring one’s actions, thoughts, and motives against God’s law—often using the Ten Commandments as a mirror.
Why the Ten Commandments?
- They serve as a divine standard—a summary of God’s moral law.
- They reveal what God values, and where we have fallen short.
- They function like a spiritual diagnostic tool: not just to condemn, but to convict, correct, and guide.
How to Use Them in Self-Reflection
Ask questions like:
1. “You shall have no other gods…”
- What am I putting my hope in besides God?
- What do I fear or trust more than Him?
2. “No graven images…”
- Have I idolized leaders, wealth, pleasure, or status?
- Have I created a god in my own image?
3. “Don’t take God’s name in vain…”
- Do I use God’s name casually—or as cover for worldly agendas?
- Do I live in a way that honors or profanes His name?
…and so on through each commandment.
This transforms the Ten Commandments from an old stone list into a living framework for daily decision-making and spiritual alignment.
Biblical Support
- Psalm 139:23-24 – “Search me, O God, and know my heart…”
- 2 Corinthians 13:5 – “Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith…”
- James 1:23-25 – The Word is a mirror—not to glance at and forget, but to act on.
Related Terms:
- “Moral inventory” (used in spiritual disciplines and recovery programs)
- “Covenantal introspection” (used in Hebraic or reformed traditions)
- “Daily examen” (Ignatian practice of reviewing one’s day before God)
Using the Ten Commandments (or God’s moral law) for self-examination is very much like surveying a chessboard—but instead of controlling the pieces on the board, you’re watching how your own choices are moving, and which side you’re aligning with: truth or self-deception, God’s will or your own.
The Chessboard Analogy Applied to the Ten Commandments:
Strategic Positioning (Discernment):
Like a chess player must constantly assess the position of the board, you must pause and assess your spiritual condition in light of the Commandments. Every decision moves you toward either:
- Righteousness (alignment with God’s law)
- Or entrapment (compromise, pride, or sin)
The Law as a Mirror (or Board Grid):
The Ten Commandments act like the squares of the board—defining boundaries and revealing which moves are legal or destructive. You can’t win by ignoring the rules; spiritual victory requires wisdom within divine order.
Don’t Just React—Reflect:
Amateur players react impulsively. Mature players think ahead, compare options, and reflect. The same is true spiritually: fools react emotionally to life; the wise use God’s law as a lens for reflection and foresight.
False Moves = Traps:
Some temptations look like open paths—but lead to checkmate by pride, idolatry, lust, greed, or self-righteousness. The Ten Commandments expose these traps before they cost you the game.
The Goal is Not Winning—It’s Surrendering to the True King:
In chess, checkmate ends the game. In life, surrender to God’s rule is the beginning of true freedom. The Commandments aren’t about crushing you—they’re about positioning you under the King’s protection and for eternal purpose.
