Leviticus 20:18

If a man lies with a menstruating woman and has sexual relations with her, he has exposed the source of her flow, and she has uncovered the source of her blood. Both of them must be cut off from among their people.

Study Bible

If a man lies
The phrase "lies" in Hebrew is "שָׁכַב" (shakab), which often implies a sexual connotation. In the context of Leviticus, it is used to describe illicit or prohibited sexual relations. This word sets the stage for understanding the gravity of the act being described, as it is not merely about physical rest but an intimate act that breaches divine law.

with a menstruating woman
The Hebrew term for "menstruating woman" is "נִדָּה" (niddah), which refers to a woman during her menstrual period. In ancient Israelite culture, menstruation was considered a time of ritual impurity, not as a moral failing but as a natural state that required separation for the sake of holiness and community purity. This separation underscores the importance of maintaining ritual cleanliness as prescribed by the Mosaic Law.

and has sexual relations with her
This phrase emphasizes the act of sexual intercourse, which in this context is forbidden due to the woman's state of niddah. The act is seen as a violation of the sacred boundaries set by God for His people. It highlights the seriousness with which God views the observance of His laws regarding purity and the sanctity of the human body.

he has exposed the source of her flow
The "source of her flow" refers to the menstrual blood, which in Levitical law is a source of ritual impurity. The Hebrew word for "source" is "מָקוֹר" (maqor), meaning a fountain or spring, symbolizing the origin of life and fertility. By exposing it, the man disregards the sanctity and the natural order established by God, thus defiling both himself and the woman.

and she has uncovered the source of her blood
The act of uncovering, "גָּלָה" (galah) in Hebrew, implies a revealing or making known something that should remain hidden. In this context, it signifies a mutual responsibility in the act, as both parties are complicit in violating the divine command. The "source of her blood" reiterates the focus on the menstrual cycle as a time of impurity, which should be respected and observed according to God's law.

Both of them must be cut off from among their people
The phrase "cut off" is translated from the Hebrew "כָּרַת" (karat), which can mean to sever or to excommunicate. This severe consequence reflects the seriousness of the transgression. In the ancient Israelite community, being "cut off" could mean death or banishment, emphasizing the need for communal purity and the removal of sin from among God's people. This underscores the holiness required by God and the communal responsibility to uphold His statutes.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, to whom the laws in Leviticus were given as part of their covenant relationship with Him.

3. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites received the laws, as they journeyed from Egypt to the Promised Land.

4. God
The divine lawgiver who establishes the holiness code for His people.

5. The Tabernacle
The central place of worship and the presence of God among the Israelites, emphasizing the need for purity.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Purity
The call to holiness is central to the life of a believer. This law underscores the importance of maintaining purity in all aspects of life, including sexual relations.

Respect for God's Design
The prohibition reflects a respect for the natural processes God has designed, reminding us to honor His creation and order.

Community and Consequences
Being "cut off" from the community highlights the serious nature of sin and its impact on both the individual and the community. It serves as a reminder of the need for accountability and repentance.

Symbolism of Blood
Blood is a powerful symbol of life and covenant in the Bible. This law points to the sacredness of blood and the need to approach it with reverence.

Christ's Fulfillment of the Law
While the specific laws of Leviticus are not binding on Christians, they point to the holiness that Christ fulfills and calls us to live out in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the cultural and historical context of Leviticus 20:18 help us interpret its meaning for the Israelites?

2. In what ways does the concept of being "cut off" from the community relate to the New Testament teachings on church discipline?

3. How can we apply the principles of purity and holiness from Leviticus 20:18 to our modern lives, particularly in the area of sexual ethics?

4. What does the symbolism of blood in Leviticus teach us about the significance of Christ's sacrifice in the New Testament?

5. How can we balance the respect for God's laws in the Old Testament with the freedom we have in Christ, as described in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 15
Discusses the laws regarding bodily discharges, including menstrual impurity, providing context for the prohibition in Leviticus 20:18.

Ezekiel 18
Highlights the importance of personal responsibility and the consequences of sin, reinforcing the idea of being "cut off" for disobedience.

1 Corinthians 6
Addresses sexual immorality and the call for believers to honor God with their bodies, connecting to the theme of purity.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the purification rituals and the ultimate cleansing through Christ, offering a New Testament perspective on Old Testament laws.

Matthew 5
Jesus' teaching on the law, emphasizing the spirit of the law and the call to holiness.