Old Testament
Leviticus 18:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
You must not have sexual relations with both a woman and her daughter. And you must not sleep with her granddaughter — whether her son's daughter or her daughter's daughter. They are her close relatives. This is wickedness.
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Thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of a woman and her daughter, neither shalt thou take her son’s daughter, or her daughter’s daughter, to uncover her nakedness; for they are her near kinswomen: it is wickedness.
What Leviticus 18:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse prohibits sexual relations between a woman and her close female relatives, specifically her daughter and granddaughter. The term "uncover the nakedness" is a euphemism for sexual activity. The law emphasizes the importance of maintaining family integrity and avoiding relationships that could lead to confusion and moral decay. Such actions are deemed wicked because they violate the sanctity of family bonds and can cause deep emotional and social harm. The prohibition reflects a broader principle of respecting familial relationships and the boundaries that should exist within them. By establishing these guidelines, the text aims to promote a healthy and respectful family structure, which is essential for a stable society.
How to apply Leviticus 18:17 to your life
In modern life, this verse encourages us to respect boundaries within families and to avoid relationships that could harm family dynamics. It serves as a reminder to uphold moral standards and to consider the implications of our actions on our loved ones and community.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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Keep studying Leviticus 18:17
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At a Glance — the Book of Leviticus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Leviticus 18:17 mean by 'uncover the nakedness'?
In Leviticus 18:17, 'uncover the nakedness' is a euphemism for engaging in sexual relations. The verse specifically prohibits such relations between a woman and her close female relatives, including her daughter and granddaughter, emphasizing the importance of maintaining family integrity and moral boundaries.
Why is incest considered wicked in Leviticus 18:17?
Incest is deemed wicked in Leviticus 18:17 because it violates the sanctity of family relationships and can lead to emotional and social harm. The verse underscores the need for clear boundaries within families to prevent confusion and moral decay, promoting a stable and respectful family structure.
How can Leviticus 18:17 be applied in today's society?
Leviticus 18:17 can be applied today by encouraging individuals to respect familial boundaries and avoid relationships that could disrupt family dynamics. It serves as a reminder to uphold moral standards and consider the potential consequences of our actions on family and community relationships.
What are the broader themes of Leviticus 18:17?
The broader themes of Leviticus 18:17 include family integrity, sexual morality, the prohibition of incest, and respect for relationships. The verse highlights the importance of maintaining healthy family structures and the moral implications of violating these boundaries.
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