Jump to: Topical • ISBE • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Greek • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Incest, as defined in the biblical context, refers to sexual relations between individuals who are closely related by blood or marriage, which is explicitly prohibited in the Scriptures. The Bible addresses incest in various passages, outlining the moral and legal boundaries set by God for His people.Old Testament Prohibitions The primary biblical text concerning incest is found in the Book of Leviticus. Leviticus 18:6-18 provides a detailed list of prohibited relationships, stating, "None of you are to approach any close relative to have sexual relations. I am the LORD" (Leviticus 18:6). This passage goes on to specify various familial relationships, including parents, siblings, grandchildren, aunts, and in-laws, among others, that are considered incestuous and therefore forbidden. Leviticus 20:11-21 further reinforces these prohibitions by outlining the consequences for engaging in such relationships, often prescribing severe penalties, including death, for those who violate these commands. The emphasis on the sanctity of family and the preservation of moral purity is evident in these laws. New Testament Context While the New Testament does not provide an exhaustive list of incestuous relationships, it upholds the moral standards set forth in the Old Testament. The Apostle Paul addresses a case of incest in the Corinthian church, expressing strong disapproval. In 1 Corinthians 5:1, Paul writes, "It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and of a kind that even pagans do not tolerate: A man is sleeping with his father’s wife" . Paul instructs the church to expel the offender, emphasizing the need for purity within the Christian community. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, incest is seen as a violation of God's created order and an affront to the sanctity of the family unit. The family is designed to reflect God's covenantal relationship with His people, and incest disrupts this divine intention. The prohibitions against incest serve to protect the integrity of the family and ensure the well-being of future generations. Cultural and Historical Context In the ancient Near Eastern context, where the Israelites lived, incestuous practices were not uncommon among surrounding nations. The biblical laws against incest set the Israelites apart as a holy people, distinct from the practices of their neighbors. These laws were part of a broader covenantal framework that called the Israelites to live in obedience to God's commands. Moral and Ethical Considerations The biblical stance on incest underscores the importance of maintaining moral boundaries and respecting the God-given structure of family relationships. Incest is viewed as a serious moral transgression that has far-reaching consequences for individuals and communities. The biblical prohibitions serve as a safeguard against the breakdown of family integrity and the potential harm that incestuous relationships can cause. In summary, the Bible's teachings on incest are clear and unequivocal, reflecting God's desire for His people to live in holiness and purity. The prohibitions against incest are rooted in the divine order and serve to protect the sanctity of the family, ensuring that it remains a reflection of God's covenantal love and faithfulness. Topical Bible Verses Leviticus 18:6None of you shall approach to any that is near of kin to him, to uncover their nakedness: I am the LORD. Topicalbible.org 1 Corinthians 5:1 Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) The crime of cohabitation or sexual commerce between persons related within the degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by law.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia INCESTin'-sest. Greek 4202. porneia -- fornication ... fornication. From porneuo; harlotry (including adultery and incest); figuratively, idolatry -- fornication. see GREEK porneuo. (porneia) -- 8 Occurrences. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4202.htm - 7k Strong's Hebrew 4464. mamzer -- a bastard, child of incest... 4463, 4464. mamzer. 4465 . a bastard, child of incest. Transliteration: mamzer Phonetic Spelling: (mam-zare') Short Definition: birth. ... /hebrew/4464.htm - 6k 8397. tebel -- confusion 5079. niddah -- impurity Library Whether Incest is a Determinate Species of Lust? Whether Marriage is Annulled by the Husband Committing Incest with ... Argument: the Charge of Our Entertainments Being Polluted with ... Of the Impediments of Impotence, Spell, Frenzy or Madness, Incest ... Other Charges Repelled by the Same Method the Story of the Noble ... Some Man Will Say, "So Then any Thief Whatever is to be Accounted ... Wickedness of Jupiter. Whether the Unnatural vice is the Greatest Sin among the Species ... That I May Refute More Thoroughly These Charges, I Will Show that ... Of St. Paul, and the Person whom He Urges the Corinthians to ... Thesaurus Incest (1 Occurrence)... law. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. INCEST. in'-sest. See CRIMES. Multi-Version Concordance Incest (1 Occurrence). Leviticus ... /i/incest.htm - 7k Relationships (1 Occurrence) Family (438 Occurrences) Inchantments (1 Occurrence) Incessantly (2 Occurrences) Fornication (52 Occurrences) Fire (602 Occurrences) Enormity (2 Occurrences) Benammi (1 Occurrence) Ben-ammi (1 Occurrence) Resources Why did God allow incest in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about abortion? | GotQuestions.org Is it wrong to have a relationship with a close relative? | GotQuestions.org Incest: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Incest (1 Occurrence)Leviticus 20:12 Subtopics Incest: Jacob With Leah and Rachel Incest: Lot With his Daughters Related Terms |
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