In our readings this week I was intrigued by several points. Firstly, I was not aware that there was a separate Yahwistic Decalogue or that there were denominational variations in the counting/grouping of the commandments. This further points to the variability in God. That humans have interpreted the same 10 "rules" in such a variety of ways (with a distinct-ish set also in existence) shows that theologies have been evolving and influencing each other since the beginning of time and that is perhaps even a good thing.
The Holiness code in Leviticus has always been a tender spot for me personally. This is the section of the Bible so frequently used to condemn members of the LGBTQIA community in really scary and terrible ways. That being said, I've always been curious because it has a place in the cannon for a reason. It is generally believed that it is in the cannon to provide readers with the information needed in order to obtain/maintain purity. According to Klawans, "what is pure is not necessarily holy, nor is the common necessarily impure." The difference between impurity and sin is complex and overlooked in our modern era. Impurity is generally unavoidable and that doesn't stop you from striving for holiness. There is also mention of sacrifice in this section which is important because that's the symbolic means for expressing gratitude to God or make amends (Collins). This communication has to be done when pure which mean God, if God wants the sacrifice God must provide ways to become pure.
Similarly to the code in Leviticus, the Book of covenant can be and has been interpreted in problematic ways justifying revenge and further violence. Collins points out that the point is not revenge but moderation. If someone slaps you in the face it would not be fair to stab them in the heart. Interestingly, Collins also points out here that Jesus seems to revoke this ruling with his "turn-the-other-cheeck" sermon however, this sermon isn't coming from someone practically legislating a community.