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, whether the daughter of his father or of his mother
This phrase addresses the prohibition against incestuous relationships, specifically between siblings. In the ancient Near Eastern context, such unions were often seen as taboo and were prohibited in Israelite law to maintain the sanctity and purity of the family unit. The reference to "the daughter of his father or of his mother" clarifies that this law applies to both full and half-siblings, emphasizing the importance of maintaining clear boundaries within familial relationships. This commandment reflects the broader biblical principle of holiness and separation from the practices of surrounding nations, which often included various forms of sexual immorality.

and they have sexual relations, it is a disgrace
The term "disgrace" indicates a severe moral and social violation. In the cultural and historical context of ancient Israel, maintaining family honor and purity was paramount. Sexual relations between siblings were seen as a violation of God's created order and an affront to the community's moral standards. This disgrace is not only a personal sin but also a communal concern, as it affects the integrity of the entire community. The biblical narrative consistently upholds sexual purity as a reflection of God's holiness, as seen in other passages like 1 Corinthians 6:18-20, which calls believers to flee from sexual immorality.

They must be cut off in the sight of their people
"Cut off" is a term often interpreted as excommunication or even death, depending on the severity of the offense and the context. This punishment underscores the seriousness with which God views the violation of His laws. Being "cut off" serves both as a deterrent to others and as a means of preserving the holiness of the community. The phrase "in the sight of their people" suggests a public acknowledgment of the sin and its consequences, reinforcing the communal aspect of maintaining holiness and obedience to God's commandments.

He has uncovered the nakedness of his sister
This phrase uses the euphemism "uncovered the nakedness" to describe sexual relations, a common expression in Levitical law. It highlights the violation of personal and familial boundaries, as nakedness was associated with vulnerability and shame outside the context of marriage. The uncovering of nakedness within the family is a direct violation of the order established by God in creation, where marriage is intended to be between a man and a woman who are not closely related. This concept is further explored in Genesis 2:24, where the institution of marriage is defined.

he shall bear his iniquity
The phrase "bear his iniquity" indicates personal responsibility and accountability for one's actions. In the biblical context, iniquity refers to a deep moral failing or sin that separates individuals from God. Bearing one's iniquity implies facing the consequences of sin, both in terms of divine judgment and social repercussions. This principle is consistent throughout Scripture, as seen in passages like Ezekiel 18:20, which emphasizes individual responsibility for sin. The call to bear one's iniquity also points to the need for repentance and the hope of redemption, ultimately fulfilled in the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ, who bore the iniquities of humanity on the cross (Isaiah 53:5-6).

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.