Old Testament

Leviticus 18:13

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Leviticus 18:13, the commandment prohibits sexual relations with one's aunt, specifically the sister of one's mother.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Moses
Written
Around 1400 BC
Genre
Law (Pentateuch)
Original Audience
The Israelites in the wilderness
CBTClear Bible Translation

You must not have sexual relations with your mother's sister. She is your mother's close relative.

KJVKing James Version

Thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of thy mother’s sister: for she is thy mother’s near kinswoman.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Leviticus 18:13, the commandment prohibits sexual relations with one's aunt, specifically the sister of one's mother. This law is part of a broader set of guidelines aimed at maintaining family integrity and moral conduct within the community. The term "uncover the nakedness" is a euphemism for engaging in sexual activity, emphasizing the seriousness of the prohibition. The verse highlights the importance of respecting familial relationships and boundaries, as engaging in such relationships could lead to confusion and disrupt family dynamics. This command is rooted in the understanding that close relatives should not engage in sexual relations, as it can lead to moral decay and societal issues. The laws in Leviticus serve to set apart the Israelites from other nations, promoting holiness and ethical behavior. Overall, this verse underscores the significance of maintaining appropriate boundaries within family structures to foster a healthy community.

Key themes

Related topics

holiness, wisdom, healing

How to apply Leviticus 18:13 to your life

This verse encourages us to respect family boundaries and maintain healthy relationships. In modern contexts, it reminds us to uphold moral standards and avoid relationships that could harm family dynamics. Understanding these principles can help foster a supportive and respectful family environment.

Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Leviticus 18:13 mean?

Leviticus 18:13 prohibits sexual relations with one's aunt, specifically the sister of one's mother. This commandment emphasizes the importance of maintaining family integrity and moral conduct.

What is the significance of 'uncover the nakedness' in Leviticus 18:13?

The phrase 'uncover the nakedness' is a euphemism for engaging in sexual activity. It highlights the seriousness of the prohibition against incestuous relationships.

Why does Leviticus 18:13 prohibit relationships with aunts?

This verse aims to prevent confusion and disruption within family dynamics by prohibiting sexual relations with close relatives, thereby promoting moral standards in the community.

What themes are present in Leviticus 18:13?

Key themes in Leviticus 18:13 include family integrity, moral conduct, the prohibition of incest, holiness, and community guidelines that set the Israelites apart from other nations.

The Book of Leviticus
Book Summary

The Book of Leviticus

Leviticus 1: The Burnt Offering

The LORD calls to Moses from the tabernacle and gives instructions for the burnt offering. A man who brings a burnt offering from the herd presents a male without blemish at the door of the tabernacle. He lays his hand on the head of the offering, kills it, and Aaron's sons the priests sprinkle the blood around the altar. The animal is flayed and cut into pieces, and the whole is burned on the altar as a sweet savor to the LORD.

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