Leviticus 18:27

For the men who were in the land before you committed all these abominations, and the land has become defiled.

Study Bible

For the men who were in the land before you
This phrase refers to the Canaanites, the original inhabitants of the Promised Land. Historically, the Canaanites were known for their idolatrous practices and moral depravity. The Hebrew word for "men" here is "אֲנָשִׁים" (anashim), which can also mean "people" or "inhabitants," emphasizing the collective nature of their actions. From a conservative Christian perspective, this serves as a warning against adopting the sinful practices of the surrounding culture. It underscores the importance of maintaining a distinct identity as God's chosen people, set apart for holiness.

committed all these abominations
The term "abominations" is translated from the Hebrew word "תּוֹעֵבוֹת" (to'evot), which refers to actions that are detestable or repugnant to God. In the context of Leviticus 18, these abominations include various forms of sexual immorality and idolatry. The use of "all" indicates the comprehensive nature of their sinfulness, suggesting that these practices were widespread and normalized in Canaanite society. This serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments and the moral decay that follows.

and the land has become defiled
The Hebrew word for "defiled" is "טָמֵא" (tamei), which means to be unclean or impure. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the land itself was seen as being affected by the moral actions of its inhabitants. This concept is deeply rooted in the biblical understanding that sin has tangible consequences not only for individuals but also for the community and the environment. From a conservative Christian viewpoint, this highlights the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance and purification to restore right standing with God. It also serves as a call to stewardship, reminding believers of their responsibility to uphold God's standards in all areas of life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The primary audience of Leviticus, receiving God's laws through Moses.

2. The Canaanites
The previous inhabitants of the Promised Land, known for their idolatrous and immoral practices.

3. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

4. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites, through whom God delivered the laws.

5. God
The ultimate lawgiver, establishing moral and ceremonial laws for His people.

Teaching Points

Understanding Abominations
Recognize that the term "abominations" (Hebrew: to'evah) refers to practices that are detestable to God, often linked to idolatry and sexual immorality.

The Consequence of Sin
The defilement of the land serves as a warning that sin has communal and environmental consequences, affecting more than just the individual.

Holiness and Separation
God calls His people to be holy and separate from the practices of the world, emphasizing the importance of living according to His standards.

God's Justice and Patience
The judgment on the Canaanites demonstrates God's justice, but also His patience, as He gave them time to repent.

Application to Modern Life
Believers today are called to examine their lives and communities for practices that may defile their spiritual environment and to seek purity and holiness.

Bible Study Questions

1. What specific practices are referred to as "abominations" in Leviticus 18, and how do they relate to the cultural context of the Canaanites?

2. How does the concept of land being "defiled" by sin apply to our understanding of community and environmental stewardship today?

3. In what ways does the call to holiness in Leviticus 18 challenge modern Christians in their daily lives?

4. How can we balance the call to be separate from the world with the command to love and reach out to those who do not know Christ?

5. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or experienced the communal consequences of sin. How did it affect your understanding of personal and collective responsibility before God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 15:16
This verse speaks of the iniquity of the Amorites, a Canaanite tribe, not yet being complete, indicating God's patience and eventual judgment.

Deuteronomy 18:9-12
These verses warn the Israelites not to imitate the detestable practices of the nations they are dispossessing.

Romans 1:24-32
Paul describes the consequences of idolatry and immorality, echoing the defilement mentioned in Leviticus.

1 Corinthians 6:9-11
Paul lists behaviors that exclude people from the kingdom of God, similar to the abominations in Leviticus.

Ephesians 5:5-7
Paul warns believers not to be partners with those who practice immorality, echoing the separation called for in Leviticus.