Old Testament

Leviticus 18:6

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

At a Glance

In Leviticus 18:6, God sets clear boundaries regarding sexual relationships, specifically prohibiting any sexual relations with close relatives.

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

No one may have sexual relations with a close relative. I am the LORD.

KJVKing James Version

None of you shall approach to any that is near of kin to him, to uncover their nakedness: I am the LORD.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Leviticus 18:6, God sets clear boundaries regarding sexual relationships, specifically prohibiting any sexual relations with close relatives. This command is part of a larger set of laws intended to maintain moral purity and social order among the Israelites. The phrase "to uncover their nakedness" is a euphemism for engaging in sexual activity, emphasizing the seriousness of the prohibition. By stating, "I am the LORD," God reinforces His authority and the importance of adhering to these laws. This command reflects God's desire for His people to live in a way that honors family relationships and upholds community integrity. The laws in this chapter serve to distinguish the Israelites from the surrounding nations, which often engaged in immoral practices. Overall, this verse highlights the significance of respecting familial boundaries and the moral standards set by God for His people.

Key themes

Related topics

authority, direction, holiness

How to apply Leviticus 18:6 to your life

This verse encourages us to respect family relationships and maintain moral integrity in our lives. It serves as a reminder to establish healthy boundaries in all relationships, ensuring that we honor our commitments and uphold ethical standards in our interactions with others.

Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Leviticus 18:6 mean?

Leviticus 18:6 means that God prohibits sexual relations with close relatives to maintain moral purity and social order among His people. This command emphasizes the importance of respecting family boundaries.

What is the meaning of 'to uncover their nakedness' in Leviticus 18:6?

In Leviticus 18:6, 'to uncover their nakedness' is a euphemism for engaging in sexual activity. It signifies the seriousness of the prohibition against sexual relations with close relatives.

Why does God say 'I am the LORD' in Leviticus 18:6?

God says 'I am the LORD' in Leviticus 18:6 to reinforce His authority and the importance of following His laws regarding sexual morality and family boundaries.

How does Leviticus 18:6 apply to modern relationships?

Leviticus 18:6 encourages respect for family relationships and the establishment of healthy boundaries in all interactions, reminding us to uphold ethical standards in our lives.

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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