Here is why G-d gave the Jews the Ten Commandments.
G-d first went to the Egyptians and asked them if they would like a commandment.
“What’s a commandment?” they asked.
“Well, it’s like, THOU SHALT NOT COMMIT ADULTERY,” replied G-d.
The Egyptians thought about it and then said, “No way. That would ruin our weekends.”
So then G-d went to the Syrians and asked them if they would like a commandment.
They also asked, “What’s a commandment?”
“Well,” said G-d, “It’s like, THOU SHALT NOT STEAL.”
The Syrians immediately replied, “No way. That would ruin our economy.”
So finally G-d went to the Jews and asked them if they wanted a commandment. They asked, “How much?”
G-d said, “They’re free.”
The Jews said, “OK. We’ll take ten.”
From Oy! The Ultimate Book of Jewish Jokes, by David Minkoff
