A soap opera based on the Biblical story of the Ten Commandments is a massive hit that is allowing its network to challenge the top channel in the country.

The program is driving the Rede Record television network to the top of the ratings.  The network, owned by the founder of Brazil’s biggest pentecostal church, has suddenly become a major player in broadcasting.

TV critics and analysts suggest the family oriented script of the program is what drives the sky-high ratings.

“There is a more conservative audience in Brazil that we’ve seen is quite strong,” said Bruno Dieguez, a communications professor at Rio’s Pontifical Catholic University.

“The Ten Commandments” has earned ratings triple any previous offering by its network.  The network has also spent more money on the show than any previous production.

“In my opinion, there should only be soaps like this one – to teach about the Bible, about family and values,” hairdresser Cristiana da Silva said, dividing her attention between the evening’s last customer and the action on screen. “This is the best soap.”

The show could be heading to the United States.  MundoFox, Fox Television’s Spanish-language channel, is negotiating for the television rights.