Final answer:
Religious ritualism is NOT a way ancient Israel broke the covenant since following prescribed rituals was part of their adherence to the law of Moses, unlike idolatry, murder, and social injustice, which did violate their covenant with Yahweh.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer to the question of which of the following is NOT a way ancient Israel broke the covenant is religious ritualism. The ancient Israelites were often accused of several violations against their covenant with Yahweh, including idolatry, murder, and social injustice. These violations are well-documented through biblical narratives, actions rebuked by prophets and laws given by Moses.
Idolatry, for example, directly broke one of the Ten Commandments, and there are numerous biblical stories, such as the worship of the golden calf, that highlight the Israelites turning away from worshipping Yahweh alone. Murder and social injustice also contravened the ethical and moral laws that were a critical part of their covenant, as Yahweh expected the Israelites to live moral lives and uphold justice.
On the other hand, religious ritualism itself was not a breach of the covenant. In fact, the law of Moses prescribed certain rituals to be followed strictly. These rituals, such as Sabbath observance and animal sacrifice, were intended to show reverence and obedience to Yahweh.