You must not have sexual relations with your brother's wife; that would shame your brother. You must not have sexual relationsThis phrase is a direct command, emphasizing the prohibition of certain sexual behaviors. The Hebrew root here is "גלה ערוה" (galah ervah), which means to uncover nakedness, a euphemism for sexual relations. This command is part of a broader set of laws given to the Israelites to maintain holiness and purity within the community. It underscores the importance of sexual morality as a reflection of one's relationship with God and others. with your brother’s wife that would shame your brother Persons / Places / Events 1. MosesThe author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God to instruct the Israelites. 2. Israelites The chosen people of God, to whom the laws in Leviticus were given as a guide for holy living. 3. Canaan The land where the Israelites were headed, which was inhabited by people with practices that God deemed abominable. 4. Brother In this context, a fellow Israelite or literal sibling, whose marital relationship is to be respected. 5. Brother’s Wife The woman who is married to one's brother, whose relationship is protected by this commandment. Teaching Points Respect for Family BoundariesThis commandment underscores the importance of respecting familial relationships and boundaries. Violating these boundaries leads to shame and dishonor. Holiness in Relationships God calls His people to a standard of holiness that includes sexual purity. This commandment is part of a broader call to live distinctively from the surrounding cultures. The Consequences of Sin Engaging in prohibited relationships can lead to personal and communal consequences, including shame and broken relationships. Understanding Context While this commandment is specific, it is part of a larger biblical ethic that values marriage and family. Understanding the cultural and historical context helps us apply these principles today. Guarding Against Temptation This verse serves as a reminder to guard our hearts and actions against temptations that can lead to sin and dishonor. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Leviticus 18:16 reflect God's design for family and marriage?2. In what ways can we apply the principle of respecting family boundaries in our modern context? 3. How does the prohibition in Leviticus 18:16 relate to the broader biblical teaching on sexual purity? 4. What are some practical steps we can take to guard against sexual temptation in our lives? 5. How can understanding the cultural context of Leviticus help us apply its principles today? Connections to Other Scriptures Exodus 20:14This verse is part of the Ten Commandments, specifically prohibiting adultery, which is a broader category that includes the specific prohibition in Leviticus 18:16. Matthew 5:27-28 Jesus expands on the commandment against adultery, emphasizing the importance of purity in thought as well as action. 1 Corinthians 5:1 Paul addresses a case of sexual immorality in the Corinthian church, highlighting the seriousness of such sins within the Christian community. Deuteronomy 25:5-10 Discusses the practice of levirate marriage, which is an exception to the rule in Leviticus 18:16, showing the importance of context in understanding biblical laws. Hebrews 13:4 Reinforces the sanctity of marriage and the importance of keeping the marriage bed pure.
People Israelites, Molech, MosesPlaces Canaan, Egypt, TemanTopics Brother, Brother's, Dishonor, Nakedness, Relations, Sex, Sexual, Uncover, WifeDictionary of Bible Themes Leviticus 18:168273 holiness, ethical aspects 6189 immorality, examples Library General Character of Christians. "And they that are Christ's have crucified the Flesh, with the Affections and Lusts." St. Paul is supposed to have been the first herald of gospel grace to the Galatians; and they appear to have rejoiced at the glad tidings, and to have received the bearer with much respect. But after his departure, certain judaizing teachers went among them, and labored but too successfully, to alienate their affections from him, and turn them form the simplicity of the gospel. The malice and errors of those deceitful … Andrew Lee et al—Sermons on Various Important Subjects "They have Corrupted Themselves; their Spot is not the Spot of his Children; they are a Perverse and Crooked Generation. " The Doctrine of Arbitrary Scriptural Accommodation Considered. Epistle Lxiv. To Augustine, Bishop of the Angli . The Two Sabbath-Controversies - the Plucking of the Ears of Corn by the Disciples, and the Healing of the Man with the Withered Hand Obedience The Blessings of Noah Upon Shem and Japheth. (Gen. Ix. 18-27. ) Meditations for Household Piety. Appendix ii. Philo of Alexandria and Rabbinic Theology. Leviticus Links Leviticus 18:16 NIVLeviticus 18:16 NLT Leviticus 18:16 ESV Leviticus 18:16 NASB Leviticus 18:16 KJV Leviticus 18:16 Commentaries Bible Hub |
    |