Erskine's poetic rendering of the Ten Commandments could be a helpful tool for children (or adults) wanting to memorize them.
The Ten Commandments
Ralph Erskine, 1863
1. No God but Me thou shalt adore,
I am thy God alone.
2. No image frame to bow before,
But idols all dethrone.
3. God's glorious name take not in vain,
For be revered He will.
4. His sacred Sabbath don't profane,
Mind it is holy still.
5. To parents render due respect,
This may thy life prolong.
6. All murder shun and malice check,
To no man's life do wrong.
7. From thoughts of whoredom base abstain,
From words and actions vile.
8. Shun theft and all unlawful gain,
Nor gather wealth by guile.
9. False witness flee, and slandering spite,
Nor wilful lies invent.
10. Don't covet what's thy neighbor's right,
Nor harbor discontent.
