Leviticus 20:11

If a man lies with his father's wife, he has uncovered his father's nakedness. Both must surely be put to death; their blood is upon them.

Study Bible

If a man lies
This phrase refers to the act of sexual relations, which in the Hebrew context is often described with the verb "shakab," meaning to lie down. This is not merely a physical act but a violation of divine law, reflecting a breach of the sanctity of family and marriage as ordained by God. The act is not just a personal sin but a communal offense that disrupts the social and spiritual fabric of Israelite society.

with his father's wife
This phrase indicates a specific form of incest, which is strictly prohibited in the Mosaic Law. The Hebrew term "ervat aviv" (father's nakedness) implies a deep violation of familial boundaries. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, such an act was seen as a grave dishonor to the father and a disruption of the family lineage and inheritance rights. It reflects a profound disrespect for the family unit, which is foundational to the covenant community.

he has uncovered his father's nakedness
The phrase "uncovered his father's nakedness" is a euphemism for sexual relations with a close relative, which is considered a serious offense. The Hebrew word "galah" (uncover) suggests an exposure or violation of something sacred and private. This act is not just a personal sin but an affront to the father's honor and authority, symbolizing a rebellion against God's established order.

Both of them must surely be put to death
The phrase "must surely be put to death" underscores the severity of the offense. The Hebrew construction "mot yumat" (surely be put to death) is an emphatic expression indicating that this is a capital crime. The death penalty reflects the seriousness with which God views the sanctity of family and the need to maintain purity and holiness within the community. It serves as a deterrent and a means of purging evil from among the people.

Their blood is upon them
This phrase signifies that the responsibility for the sin and its consequences lies with the offenders. The Hebrew word "damam" (blood) symbolizes life and guilt. By stating "their blood is upon them," the text emphasizes that the offenders bear the full weight of their sin, and the community is absolved of guilt for their execution. It highlights the principle of personal accountability before God and the community.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Man
Represents an individual who commits a grave sin by engaging in a sexual relationship with his father's wife.

2. The Father's Wife
This term refers to the woman married to the man's father, which could be his biological mother or a stepmother.

3. The Father
Although not directly involved in the act, his honor and familial boundaries are violated.

4. The Israelite Community
The broader context involves the community of Israel, which is called to uphold God's laws and maintain holiness.

5. The Law of Moses
This is part of the Mosaic Law given to the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of sexual purity and respect for family structures.

Teaching Points

The Sanctity of Family
The family unit is sacred, and God's laws protect its integrity. Violating these boundaries leads to severe consequences.

Holiness and Purity
God calls His people to live holy lives, set apart from the practices of surrounding nations. Sexual purity is a key aspect of this holiness.

Consequences of Sin
Sin has serious consequences, both spiritually and communally. The death penalty in this context underscores the gravity of the offense.

Respect for Authority
This law also teaches respect for parental authority and the importance of honoring one's parents.

Community Responsibility
The community is responsible for upholding God's standards and addressing sin within its midst to maintain collective holiness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command in Leviticus 20:11 reflect God's view of family and sexual purity?

2. In what ways can the principles from this verse be applied to modern Christian living, especially regarding family relationships?

3. How does the New Testament address similar issues of sexual immorality, and what are the prescribed responses for the church?

4. What are the implications of this verse for understanding the seriousness of sin and its consequences in a community?

5. How can Christians today uphold the sanctity of family and sexual purity in a culture that often disregards these values?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 9:22-23
The account of Ham uncovering his father Noah's nakedness, which brings a curse upon Ham's descendants, illustrating the seriousness of such acts.

1 Corinthians 5:1-5
Paul addresses a similar situation in the Corinthian church, urging the community to expel the immoral brother to maintain purity.

Deuteronomy 27:20
Reinforces the curse upon anyone who dishonors their father by lying with his wife, showing consistency in the law.

Ephesians 5:3-5
Paul exhorts believers to avoid sexual immorality and impurity, highlighting the call to holiness in the New Testament.