Leviticus 20:17

If a man marries his sister, whether the daughter of his father or of his mother, and they have sexual relations, it is a disgrace. They must be cut off in the sight of their people. He has uncovered the nakedness of his sister; he shall bear his iniquity.

Study Bible

If a man marries his sister
The phrase "marries his sister" in the Hebrew context refers to a prohibited union. The Hebrew word for "marries" here can also imply taking or seizing, indicating a broader sense of forming a union, not necessarily a formal marriage. Historically, such unions were common in some ancient cultures, but the Mosaic Law set Israel apart by prohibiting them, emphasizing the sanctity and distinctiveness of family relationships.

whether the daughter of his father or his mother
This phrase clarifies that the prohibition applies regardless of whether the sister is a full or half-sibling. The Hebrew culture placed a strong emphasis on family lineage and purity, and this law served to protect the integrity of familial lines. It reflects the broader biblical principle of maintaining holiness and order within the family unit, which is foundational to societal stability.

and they have sexual relations
The act of sexual relations here is described using a Hebrew term that denotes physical intimacy. This phrase underscores the seriousness of the offense, as sexual relations within such a prohibited relationship defile the sanctity of the family. In the biblical worldview, sexual purity is a reflection of spiritual purity, and violations are seen as direct affronts to God's holiness.

it is a disgrace
The term "disgrace" in Hebrew carries the connotation of shame and dishonor. This reflects the cultural and religious understanding that such actions are not only personally shameful but also bring dishonor to the community and to God. The disgrace is not merely social but spiritual, as it violates God's commandments and disrupts the divine order.

They must be cut off before the eyes of their people
"Cut off" is a phrase that indicates a severe form of punishment, often understood as excommunication or even death. This reflects the gravity of the sin and the necessity of maintaining communal purity. The public nature of the punishment "before the eyes of their people" serves as a deterrent and a means of upholding communal standards of holiness.

He has uncovered the nakedness of his sister
The phrase "uncovered the nakedness" is a euphemism for engaging in sexual relations, particularly those that are illicit. In the Hebrew context, nakedness is often associated with vulnerability and shame, and uncovering it inappropriately is a violation of personal and divine boundaries. This language emphasizes the violation of trust and the sanctity of familial relationships.

he shall bear his iniquity
To "bear his iniquity" means to accept the consequences of one's sin. In the Hebrew understanding, iniquity is not just a legal transgression but a moral and spiritual failing. This phrase underscores the biblical principle of personal responsibility and the inevitable divine justice that accompanies sin. It serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness with which God views the holiness of His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
- The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God to instruct the Israelites.

2. Israelites
- The people to whom the laws in Leviticus were given, forming the covenant community of God.

3. Canaan
- The land where the Israelites were headed, which had practices that God wanted them to avoid, including incestuous relationships.

4. God
- The divine lawgiver who establishes moral and ceremonial laws for His people.

5. The Promised Land
- The destination of the Israelites, where they were to live as a holy nation distinct from surrounding peoples.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Distinction
God calls His people to be distinct from the surrounding cultures. This includes maintaining purity in familial relationships.

The Seriousness of Sin
The command to "bear his iniquity" highlights the gravity of sin and its consequences. Sin is not just a personal issue but affects the community.

Respect for Family Boundaries
God's laws establish clear boundaries to protect the sanctity of family relationships, which are foundational to societal stability.

Community Accountability
The requirement to be "cut off in the sight of their people" underscores the role of community in upholding God's standards.

Redemption and Forgiveness
While the law highlights sin, the New Testament offers redemption through Christ, who forgives and restores those who repent.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prohibition against incest in Leviticus 20:17 reflect God's desire for holiness among His people?

2. In what ways can the church today uphold the principles of purity and holiness in relationships, as outlined in Leviticus 20:17?

3. How does the concept of being "cut off" from the community in Leviticus relate to church discipline as described in the New Testament?

4. What are some practical steps believers can take to maintain purity in their personal and family relationships?

5. How does understanding the cultural context of Canaan help us appreciate the distinctiveness of God's laws for the Israelites?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 20
Abraham's interaction with Abimelech highlights the cultural complexities of familial relationships and the importance of integrity.

Deuteronomy 27
Reinforces the prohibition against incest, emphasizing the seriousness of maintaining purity within the family.

1 Corinthians 5
Paul addresses sexual immorality in the church, underscoring the need for holiness among believers.

Ephesians 5
Calls believers to live as children of light, avoiding deeds of darkness, including sexual immorality.

Hebrews 12
Encourages believers to pursue holiness, without which no one will see the Lord, reflecting the call to purity in Leviticus.