Leviticus 18:26 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 18:26 mean?

Leviticus 18:26 commands the Israelites to obey God’s rules and decisions, and not to practice any of the forbidden acts described earlier in the chapter. This command applies not only to native Israelites but also to foreigners living among them.

In this verse, God is speaking to the people of Israel through Moses, giving instructions about how the whole community—including both Israelites and resident foreigners—must avoid certain “abominations” or morally unacceptable practices. The verse emphasizes that God’s standards are meant for everyone within the community, not just those born into it.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 18:26

• "keep" (שָׁמַר, shamar): This word means to guard, observe, or pay careful attention. The sense here is not just passive obedience but active, watchful care in following God’s instructions.
• "statutes" (חֻקָּה, chuqqah): This refers to specific rules or decrees, often understood as laws set by God that may not always have an obvious reason but are to be followed because God commands them.
• "judgments" (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat): This word means legal decisions or ordinances, often understood as laws based on justice and fairness.
• "abominations" (תּוֹעֵבָה, toʿevah): This term refers to acts considered detestable or morally offensive, especially in a religious sense.
• "stranger" (גֵּר, ger): This word describes a foreigner or resident alien—someone who is not ethnically Israelite but lives among them.
• "sojourneth" (גוּר, gur): This means to reside temporarily, highlighting that even those just living in Israel for a time are included in these instructions.

Why Leviticus 18:26 matters

• Leviticus 18:26 makes it clear that God’s moral expectations are not limited by ethnicity or background; everyone in the community is held to the same standard.
• The verse shows that both God’s “statutes” (rules) and “judgments” (decisions about right and wrong) are important, stressing a comprehensive approach to obedience.
• By including both Israelites and foreigners, the verse connects to the broader theme in Leviticus of holiness and communal responsibility, showing that living by God’s ways is a shared duty.