Old Testament
Leviticus 20:14
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"If a man marries both a woman and her mother, it is wickedness. All 3 of them must be burned with fire, so that such wickedness does not exist among you.
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And if a man take a wife and her mother, it is wickedness: they shall be burnt with fire, both he and they; that there be no wickedness among you.
What Leviticus 20:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
Leviticus 20:14 addresses a specific form of incestuous relationship, where a man marries both a woman and her mother. This act is deemed as wickedness, highlighting the seriousness of violating family boundaries and moral laws. The prescribed punishment of burning signifies the severity of such actions in ancient Israelite society, aiming to eliminate immoral practices and maintain community purity. This law reflects the broader biblical theme of holiness and the importance of adhering to God's commandments to foster a righteous community. The verse serves as a warning against the dangers of sexual immorality and the consequences that follow when individuals disregard divine laws.
How to apply Leviticus 20:14 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of respecting family relationships and moral boundaries. In today's context, it encourages us to uphold integrity in our relationships and to avoid actions that could harm our families or communities. Maintaining ethical standards is crucial for a healthy society.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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Keep studying Leviticus 20:14
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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 20:14 say about marrying a mother and daughter?
Leviticus 20:14 explicitly states that if a man marries both a woman and her mother, it is considered wickedness. The verse emphasizes the seriousness of such incestuous relationships and prescribes severe punishment, indicating that all three individuals involved should be burned with fire. This reflects the ancient Israelite view on maintaining moral and family boundaries.
Why is the punishment so severe in Leviticus 20:14?
The punishment in Leviticus 20:14 is severe because it aims to eliminate what is seen as a grave moral violation. In ancient Israelite society, maintaining community purity and adherence to God's commandments was paramount. The harsh penalty serves as a deterrent against incest and other immoral practices, reinforcing the importance of holiness and ethical conduct within the community.
How does Leviticus 20:14 relate to modern family ethics?
Leviticus 20:14 highlights the importance of respecting family relationships and moral boundaries. In a modern context, it serves as a reminder to uphold integrity in our relationships and to avoid actions that could harm our families or communities. The verse encourages individuals to reflect on their ethical standards and the impact of their choices on family dynamics.
What themes are present in Leviticus 20:14?
Leviticus 20:14 encompasses several themes, including wickedness, incest, family boundaries, moral law, community purity, divine punishment, and holiness. These themes underscore the biblical emphasis on maintaining ethical standards and the consequences of violating divine laws, which are intended to foster a righteous and harmonious society.
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