Whoever lies with an animal must surely be put to death. Whoever lies with an animalThis phrase addresses a specific act of bestiality, which is explicitly condemned in the Mosaic Law. The Hebrew word used here for "lies" is "שָׁכַב" (shakab), which generally means to lie down, often with sexual connotations. In the ancient Near Eastern context, such acts were seen as a severe violation of the natural order established by God. The prohibition reflects the sanctity of human sexuality, which is intended to be expressed within the boundaries of marriage between a man and a woman. This command underscores the importance of maintaining purity and holiness in the community of Israel, as God's chosen people were to be set apart from the surrounding nations, many of which engaged in various forms of sexual immorality. must surely be put to death Persons / Places / Events 1. MosesThe author of Exodus, who received the Law from God on Mount Sinai. He is the central human figure in the account of the Exodus and the giving of the Law. 2. Israelites The recipients of the Law, who were being formed into a covenant community distinct from the surrounding nations. 3. Mount Sinai The place where God delivered the Law to Moses, including the moral, civil, and ceremonial laws that governed Israelite society. 4. Canaan The land into which the Israelites were entering, where they would encounter various pagan practices, including those prohibited by this law. 5. Pagan Nations The surrounding cultures that practiced idolatry and immoral acts, which the Israelites were commanded to avoid and not emulate. Teaching Points Holiness and DistinctionGod calls His people to be holy and distinct from the surrounding cultures. This law underscores the importance of maintaining purity and rejecting practices that defile the body and soul. The Sanctity of Creation This commandment reflects the sanctity of God's created order. It reminds believers to respect the boundaries God has set within creation, including human sexuality. Seriousness of Sin The severe penalty for this sin highlights the seriousness with which God views violations of His moral law. It serves as a warning to take sin seriously and to pursue righteousness. Community Responsibility The communal aspect of the law indicates that the community is responsible for upholding God's standards and ensuring that sin is addressed and not tolerated. Redemption and Forgiveness While the Old Testament law prescribed death for certain sins, the New Testament offers redemption and forgiveness through Christ. Believers are called to repentance and transformation through the Holy Spirit. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the command in Exodus 22:19 reflect God's desire for His people to be distinct from the surrounding nations?2. In what ways does the prohibition of bestiality in the Old Testament relate to the New Testament teachings on sexual immorality? 3. How can we apply the principle of holiness and distinction in our lives today, especially in a culture that often blurs moral boundaries? 4. What role does the community of believers play in upholding God's standards, and how can we support one another in this? 5. How does understanding the severity of sin in the Old Testament enhance our appreciation for the grace and forgiveness offered through Jesus Christ? Connections to Other Scriptures Leviticus 18:23 and 20:15-16 These passages also address the prohibition of bestiality, reinforcing the severity of the sin and the prescribed punishment. Deuteronomy 27:21 This verse includes a curse for those who engage in bestiality, emphasizing the community's rejection of such acts. Romans 1:24-27 Paul discusses the consequences of idolatry and sexual immorality, highlighting the degradation that comes from turning away from God's design. 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 Paul urges believers to flee from sexual immorality, reminding them that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit.
People MosesPlaces Mount SinaiTopics Animal, Beast, Certainly, Connection, Death, Lies, Lieth, Relations, Sex, Sexual, SurelyDictionary of Bible Themes Exodus 22:19 4605 animals, religious role Library Excursus on Usury. The famous canonist Van Espen defines usury thus: "Usura definitur lucrum ex mutuo exactum aut speratum;" [96] and then goes on to defend the proposition that, "Usury is forbidden by natural, by divine, and by human law. The first is proved thus. Natural law, as far as its first principles are concerned, is contained in the decalogue; but usury is prohibited in the decalogue, inasmuch as theft is prohibited; and this is the opinion of the Master of the Sentences, of St. Bonaventura, of St. Thomas … Philip Schaff—The Seven Ecumenical Councils Parable of the Importunate Widow. Ciii. Zacchæus. Parable of the Pounds. Journey to Jerusalem. Epistle Xl. To Mauricius Augustus. Appeal to the Christian Women of the South Epistle xvii. To Felix, Bishop of Messana. Feast of the Dedication. The Jews Attempt to Stone Jesus and He Retires to Peræa. A Summary of the Christian Life. Of Self-Denial. Jesus' Last Public Discourse. Denunciation of Scribes and Pharisees. Circumcision, Temple Service, and Naming of Jesus. The Development of the Earlier Old Testament Laws The Blessing of Jacob Upon Judah. (Gen. Xlix. 8-10. ) The Eighth Commandment Exodus Links Exodus 22:19 NIVExodus 22:19 NLT Exodus 22:19 ESV Exodus 22:19 NASB Exodus 22:19 KJV Exodus 22:19 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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