Leviticus 20:14

If a man marries both a woman and her mother, it is depraved. Both he and they must be burned in the fire, so that there will be no depravity among you.

Study Bible

If a man marries
The phrase "If a man marries" introduces a conditional situation that reflects the legal and moral standards of ancient Israel. The Hebrew root for "marries" is "laqach," which means to take or to acquire. This reflects the cultural context where marriage was often seen as a contractual agreement. In the conservative Christian perspective, marriage is a sacred covenant designed by God, and any deviation from His design is considered sinful.

both a woman and her mother
This phrase highlights the specific nature of the transgression. The Hebrew culture, as reflected in the Torah, had strict laws regarding familial relationships to maintain social order and purity. The act of marrying both a woman and her mother is seen as a violation of natural and divine law, disrupting the family structure ordained by God. It is a reminder of the importance of respecting familial boundaries.

it is depraved
The term "depraved" is translated from the Hebrew word "zimmah," which denotes a wicked or lewd act. This word is used in the context of actions that are morally corrupt and offensive to God. In a conservative Christian view, depravity is a state of moral corruption that separates individuals from God's holiness. This phrase underscores the seriousness of the sin and the need for holiness among God's people.

Both he and they must be burned in the fire
This severe punishment reflects the gravity of the sin in the eyes of God and the community. The act of burning was a form of capital punishment intended to purify the community by removing the sin and its influence. In the historical context, such measures were seen as necessary to maintain the holiness and purity of the Israelite community. From a conservative Christian perspective, this underscores the seriousness with which God views sin and the lengths to which He will go to preserve the sanctity of His people.

so that there will be no depravity among you
This phrase emphasizes the purpose of the law: to prevent moral corruption within the community. The Hebrew word for "depravity" here is again "zimmah," reinforcing the need to avoid actions that lead to moral decay. In the conservative Christian tradition, this serves as a call to uphold God's standards of holiness and to live in a way that reflects His righteousness. It is a reminder that the community's spiritual health is of utmost importance to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The 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 to set them apart as holy.

3. Canaan
The land where the Israelites were headed, which was inhabited by people practicing detestable customs that God wanted His people to avoid.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Separation
God calls His people to be holy and distinct from the surrounding nations. This involves adhering to His standards for sexual conduct.

The Seriousness of Sin
The severe penalty for this sin underscores the seriousness with which God views sexual immorality and the need to eradicate it from the community.

Respect for Family Structure
God's laws protect the sanctity and integrity of family relationships, which are foundational to a healthy society.

Consequences of Sin
Sin has consequences not only for the individual but also for the community. The prescribed punishment serves as a deterrent to prevent the spread of depravity.

New Testament Continuity
While the specific penalties may differ, the New Testament continues to affirm the importance of sexual purity and the need for the church to address sin within its midst.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prohibition in Leviticus 20:14 reflect God's design for marriage and family?

2. In what ways does the New Testament uphold the principles found in Leviticus 20:14 regarding sexual purity?

3. How can we apply the principle of holiness in our relationships today, especially in a culture that often disregards biblical standards?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to maintain purity in our thoughts and actions, in light of Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:27-28?

5. How should the church respond to instances of sexual immorality within its community, based on the teachings of both the Old and New Testaments?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:24
This verse establishes the sanctity of marriage as a union between one man and one woman, which is foundational to understanding the prohibitions in Leviticus.

Deuteronomy 27:23
This verse reiterates the prohibition against sexual relations with a mother and her daughter, emphasizing the seriousness of such acts.

1 Corinthians 5:1-5
Paul addresses a case of sexual immorality in the Corinthian church, showing that the New Testament continues to uphold sexual purity.

Matthew 5:27-28
Jesus expands on the understanding of sexual immorality, teaching that even lustful thoughts are sinful.