The court battle at a glance

BURNING ISSUE

The Supreme Court is considering whether displays of the Ten Commandments should be allowed on government property, the court's first case on this issue in 25 years.

DIFFERING VIEWS

Proponents of public displays say the commandments are part of the nation's legal heritage. Opponents contend the displays are an unconstitutional "establishment" of religion by the government.

COURTS AT ODDS

Since 1980 more than two dozen courts have ruled in conflicting ways on displays of the Ten Commandments in various public contexts.