Two fundamental commandments, one negative and one positive, introduce this section of blessings (vv. 1-2).
"In terms reminiscent of the inauguration of the covenant at Sinai (Ex. 21:1-4), Yahweh speaks of His uniqueness and exclusivity (Lev. 26:1), a fact that demanded unquestioning loyalty (26:2)."297
"The repetition of the term covenantin this chapter shows that the author intends it as a summary of the conditions for the covenant reestablished after the incident of the golden calf. Thus, as has been the form throughout God's address to Israel on Mount Sinai, the statement of the conditions of the covenant is prefaced by a reminder of two central laws: the prohibition of idolatry (v. 1) and the call to observe the Sabbath (v. 2). It was through idolatry that Israel first broke the covenant at Sinai. By contrast the Sabbath was to be a sign of Israel's covenant relationship with God."298
"All declension and decay may be said to be begun wherever we see these two ordinances despised--the sabbathand the sanctuary. They are the outwardfence around the inward lovecommanded by v. 1."299
