Question 1

What does Leviticus 20:11 mean?

Accepted Answer

Leviticus 20:11 says that if a man has sexual relations with his father's wife, both people involved must be put to death because this act is seen as exposing the father's "nakedness," or dishonoring him. The responsibility for this sin and its consequences falls fully on those who committed it. In this verse, God is giving laws to the Israelites through Moses about forbidden sexual relationships. The phrase "uncovered his father's nakedness" is a way of describing a serious violation of family boundaries and respect. The law emphasizes the gravity of this offense by prescribing the death penalty, showing how seriously such actions were regarded in ancient Israelite society.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 20:11

Accepted Answer

"lieth" (שָׁכַב, shakav): This word means to lie down with someone, often as a euphemism for sexual relations. Its use here makes clear the nature of the offense. "uncovered" (גָּלָה, galah): This word means to reveal or expose, and in this context, it refers to making public or violating what should remain private, specifically the father's "nakedness." "nakedness" (עֶרְוָה, ervah): This term refers to sexual intimacy or exposure, and in Leviticus, it often points to forbidden sexual relationships, especially those that break family boundaries. "blood" (דָּם, dam): Here, "their blood shall be upon them" means that those who commit this act bear full responsibility for the consequences, including the penalty.

Question 3

Why Leviticus 20:11 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse clarifies that certain sexual relationships were not just personal choices but were seen as offenses against family structure and honor in ancient Israel. The law connects to a broader section in Leviticus that lists forbidden relationships, showing a concern for protecting family boundaries and social order. The strong language about responsibility ("their blood shall be upon them") highlights that those who break these laws are fully accountable for their actions, with no blame shifted to others.

Leviticus 20:11 (KJV)