Leviticus 18:22 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 18:22 mean?

Leviticus 18:22 states that a man is not to have sexual relations with another man in the same way he would with a woman, calling this practice an "abomination." The verse presents this as a clear prohibition within the laws given to Israel.

In context, these words come from God speaking to the Israelites through Moses, as part of a larger section outlining forbidden sexual practices. The chapter is focused on setting boundaries for the community’s moral and ritual life, distinguishing Israel from surrounding nations.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 18:22

• "lie" (שָׁכַב, shakav): This word refers to lying down, often as a euphemism for sexual relations. Its use here makes the meaning about sexual activity clear.
• "mankind" (זָכָר, zakhar): This word specifically means "male" or "man," emphasizing that the prohibition is directed at male-male sexual relations.
• "with" (מִשְׁכַּב, mishkav): This word literally means "lying down" or "bed," and in this context, it refers to sexual intercourse.
• "womankind" (אִשָּׁה, ishah): This is the usual word for "woman" or "wife," highlighting the comparison being made between male-male and male-female relations.
• "abomination" (תוֹעֵבָה, toʿevah): This word means something detestable or ritually unclean, often used for practices considered unacceptable in Israelite worship or community life.

Why Leviticus 18:22 matters

• Leviticus 18:22 is often misunderstood as a general statement about all same-sex relationships, but the verse specifically addresses sexual acts between men in the context of Israelite law.
• The use of the word "abomination" (תוֹעֵבָה, toʿevah) connects this command to ritual and community boundaries, not just personal morality.
• This verse is part of a larger section where Israel is called to be distinct from other nations, especially in matters of sexuality and worship, helping explain its emphasis and placement in the chapter.