Leviticus 20:12

If a man lies with his daughter-in-law, both must surely be put to death. They have acted perversely; their blood is upon them.

Study Bible

If a man sleeps with his daughter-in-law
This phrase addresses a specific sexual sin that was considered a grave violation of family integrity and societal norms in ancient Israel. The Hebrew word for "sleeps" (שָׁכַב, shakab) implies a sexual relationship, indicating an act that breaches the sanctity of familial bonds. The daughter-in-law, being part of the extended family, was to be respected and protected, not exploited. This command underscores the importance of maintaining purity and respect within family structures, reflecting God's design for family relationships.

both of them must surely be put to death
The phrase "must surely be put to death" (מוֹת יוּמָתוּ, mot yumat) is a legal formula indicating the severity of the crime. In the context of ancient Israel, this was a capital offense, reflecting the seriousness with which God viewed the sanctity of family and marriage. The death penalty served as a deterrent and a means of purging evil from the community, emphasizing the holiness required of God's people. It highlights the principle that sin has serious consequences and that God's justice is both righteous and uncompromising.

They have acted perversely
The term "perversely" (תֶּבֶל, tebel) suggests a violation of natural order and moral corruption. This word conveys the idea of confusion and disorder, which is contrary to God's design for human relationships. The act described is not just a personal sin but a disruption of the divine order, reflecting a heart that has turned away from God's statutes. This serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning one's life with God's will and the destructive nature of sin when left unchecked.

their blood is upon them
This phrase indicates personal responsibility for the sin committed. "Their blood is upon them" (דָּמָם בָּם, damam bam) means that the guilt and consequences of their actions rest solely on the individuals involved. It underscores the biblical principle of individual accountability before God. In a broader theological context, it points to the need for atonement and the seriousness of sin, which ultimately requires a remedy that only God can provide through His redemptive plan. This phrase serves as a sobering reminder of the weight of sin and the justice of God, while also pointing forward to the hope of forgiveness and restoration through Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Man
Represents any male individual within the Israelite community who engages in prohibited sexual relations.

2. The Daughter-in-law
Represents the woman married to the man's son, highlighting the familial boundaries that are not to be crossed.

3. The Israelite Community
The broader context in which these laws were given, emphasizing the need for holiness and purity among God's chosen people.

4. Moses
The prophet through whom God delivered the laws to the Israelites, serving as a mediator between God and His people.

5. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, where the Israelites were to live according to God's laws, setting an example of holiness to surrounding nations.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Boundaries
God's laws establish clear boundaries to maintain holiness within the community. Believers today are called to respect and uphold moral boundaries in relationships.

Consequences of Sin
The severe penalty for this sin highlights the seriousness with which God views sexual immorality. It serves as a reminder that sin has consequences, both spiritually and communally.

Community Responsibility
The communal aspect of the law indicates that the community has a role in upholding God's standards. Believers are encouraged to support one another in living holy lives.

Respect for Family Structure
The prohibition underscores the importance of respecting family roles and relationships. Christians are called to honor and protect the sanctity of family.

Repentance and Redemption
While the Old Testament law prescribed death, the New Testament offers redemption through Christ. Believers are encouraged to seek forgiveness and transformation through Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prohibition in Leviticus 20:12 reflect God's design for family and community relationships?

2. In what ways can the church today uphold the principles of holiness and purity found in Leviticus 20?

3. How does the account of Judah and Tamar in Genesis 38 provide context for understanding the seriousness of the sin described in Leviticus 20:12?

4. What are some practical steps believers can take to maintain moral boundaries in their personal and communal lives?

5. How does the New Testament teaching on repentance and redemption provide hope for those who have fallen into sexual sin?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 38
The account of Judah and Tamar provides a account context for the prohibition against relations with a daughter-in-law, illustrating the complexities and consequences of such actions.

1 Corinthians 5
Paul addresses sexual immorality within the church, emphasizing the need for purity and discipline, similar to the call for holiness in Leviticus.

Deuteronomy 27:20
Reinforces the prohibition against sexual relations with a daughter-in-law, underscoring the consistency of God's moral law.

Romans 1:24-27
Discusses the consequences of sexual immorality and the perversion of natural relations, echoing the themes of Leviticus 20.

Hebrews 12:14
Calls believers to pursue holiness, without which no one will see the Lord, aligning with the holiness code in Leviticus.