Leviticus 18:19 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 18:19 mean?

Leviticus 18:19 instructs that a man must not have sexual relations with a woman during the time she is set apart for her menstrual impurity. The verse sets a clear boundary about sexual conduct during a woman’s period of uncleanness, as understood in ancient Israelite law.

In this passage, God is speaking to the Israelites through Moses, giving them specific laws about sexual behavior. The phrase “put apart for her uncleanness” refers to the time of a woman’s menstrual period, which was considered ritually unclean in their culture. This command is part of a larger section in Leviticus listing prohibited sexual practices, aiming to set the Israelites apart from surrounding nations.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 18:19

• "approach" (קָרַב, qarav): This word means to come near or draw close, often with the sense of intimacy or sexual contact in this context. The law is not just about physical proximity but about engaging in sexual relations.
• "uncover" (גָּלָה, galah): This verb means to reveal or expose, and here it refers to uncovering someone’s nakedness, a common biblical expression for sexual activity.
• "nakedness" (עֶרְוָה, ervah): This term often refers to sexual organs or the act of sexual relations itself. It emphasizes the sexual nature of the prohibition.
• "apart" (נִדָּה, niddah): This word means separation or being set apart, specifically for ritual impurity during menstruation. It highlights that the woman is in a distinct state during this time.
• "uncleanness" (טָמֵא, tum’ah): This word means ritual impurity, not moral wrongdoing. It refers to a temporary state that affects participation in religious and communal life.

Why Leviticus 18:19 matters

• Leviticus 18:19 clarifies that the concern is ritual purity, not a statement about a woman’s worth or morality; the focus is on maintaining community standards of holiness.
• This verse is part of a broader set of laws that distinguish Israelite practices from those of neighboring peoples, emphasizing a unique identity and approach to holiness.
• Understanding the original words and context helps modern readers see that the law addressed specific cultural and religious concerns of ancient Israel, rather than making a universal moral judgment.