Old Testament
Leviticus 20:18
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"If a man sleeps with a woman during her monthly period and exposes her nakedness, he has laid bare her flow of blood, and she has uncovered it as well. Both of them must be cut off from their people.
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And if a man shall lie with a woman having her sickness, and shall uncover her nakedness; he hath discovered her fountain, and she hath uncovered the fountain of her blood: and both of them shall be cut off from among their people.
What Leviticus 20:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse addresses the issue of sexual relations during a woman's menstrual period, which is considered a time of ritual impurity in the context of ancient Israelite law. The act of a man lying with a woman during this time is seen as a violation of God's commandments regarding purity and holiness. The phrase 'exposes her nakedness' indicates a serious breach of moral and ceremonial law. The consequence for both individuals involved is severe; they are to be 'cut off from their people,' which implies exclusion from the community and its religious practices. This reflects the importance of maintaining purity and the seriousness with which these laws were regarded in ancient Israel. The underlying principle is about respecting the sanctity of the body and the divine order established for human relationships.
How to apply Leviticus 20:18 to your life
While this specific law may not apply today, it highlights the importance of respecting boundaries in relationships. Understanding and honoring the physical and emotional aspects of intimacy can foster healthier connections and demonstrate respect for oneself and others.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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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 20:18 mean?
Leviticus 20:18 addresses the prohibition of sexual relations during a woman's menstrual period, which is viewed as a time of ritual impurity. The verse emphasizes the seriousness of violating these purity laws, resulting in both individuals being cut off from their community.
What is the significance of 'exposes her nakedness' in Leviticus 20:18?
The phrase 'exposes her nakedness' in Leviticus 20:18 signifies a serious breach of moral and ceremonial law regarding sexual conduct. It indicates a violation of the sanctity and purity expected in intimate relationships.
What are the consequences mentioned in Leviticus 20:18?
The consequences for both the man and woman in Leviticus 20:18 are severe; they are to be 'cut off from their people.' This implies exclusion from the community and its religious practices due to their violation of purity laws.
How does Leviticus 20:18 relate to modern relationships?
While Leviticus 20:18 may not apply directly today, it highlights the importance of respecting boundaries in relationships. Understanding and honoring physical and emotional aspects of intimacy can lead to healthier connections.
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