Leviticus 19:29 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 19:29 mean?

Leviticus 19:29 warns the Israelites not to prostitute their daughters or force them into sexual immorality, saying that doing so would cause the whole land to become corrupt and filled with wickedness. The verse connects personal actions to the well-being of the entire community, stressing that such behavior brings harm far beyond the individual.

Moses is relaying God’s instructions to the people of Israel as part of a larger section about living holy and distinct lives. The verse addresses a real issue in the ancient world, where some families might exploit daughters for economic reasons or as part of pagan practices. The warning is not only about individual sin but about the ripple effect it has on society, making clear that moral choices shape the character of the whole nation.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 19:29

• prostitute (חָלַל, ḥālal): This word often means “to profane” or “to make common.” Here, it carries the sense of treating someone as less than sacred, showing that forcing a daughter into prostitution is seen as a deep violation of her dignity.
• whore/whoredom (זָנָה, zānāh): This word refers to sexual immorality, especially prostitution. Its use here emphasizes that the act is not just a private matter but something that pollutes the community.
• land (אֶרֶץ, ʾereṣ): The word for “land” is repeated, highlighting that the consequences of such actions affect the whole country, not just one family.
• wickedness (זִמָּה, zimmāh): This word means “wickedness” or “lewdness,” and it is often used for particularly shameful or destructive acts. Its use here underlines the seriousness of the offense.

Why Leviticus 19:29 matters

• Leviticus 19:29 clarifies that sexual exploitation is not just a private or family issue but a community concern with far-reaching effects.
• The verse highlights the value and protection owed to daughters, countering cultural norms of the time that might have treated them as property.
• This command fits into the broader context of Leviticus 19, which is about living in a way that reflects God’s holiness and justice in every part of life.