Leviticus 20:16 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 20:16 mean?

Leviticus 20:16 states that if a woman has sexual relations with an animal, both the woman and the animal must be put to death, and their guilt is considered to be upon themselves. This law is presented as a serious prohibition with the highest penalty in ancient Israel’s legal code.

In context, these words are part of a speech from God to Moses, who is to relay them to the Israelites. The chapter lists forbidden sexual practices, emphasizing the seriousness of such acts in the community. The verse uses strong language to show that this behavior was considered a grave violation of the community’s moral and religious boundaries.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 20:16

• אִשָּׁה (ishah, “woman”): The word refers specifically to an adult female, making clear that the law addresses women as well as men in these prohibitions.
• תִּקְרַב (tiqrav, “approach”): This verb often means to draw near or come close, but in this context, it is a common Hebrew way to refer to sexual relations.
• בְּהֵמָה (behemah, “beast”): This word refers to any kind of animal, not just livestock, showing the law’s broad scope.
• שָׁכַב (shakav, “lie down”): In Hebrew, this verb is a standard way to refer to sexual intercourse.
• הָרַג (harag, “kill”): The verb here is direct and forceful, showing the seriousness with which this offense was treated.
• מוֹת יוּמָתוּ (mot yumatu, “they shall surely be put to death”): This phrase doubles the verb for “die,” a Hebrew way of stressing certainty and severity.

Why Leviticus 20:16 matters

• This verse clarifies that the laws against bestiality applied to both men and women, not just men as in some earlier verses, showing the law’s comprehensive intent.
• The repeated emphasis on the death penalty highlights how ancient Israel viewed certain acts as not just private sins but as threats to the entire community’s holiness and order.
• The phrase “their blood shall be upon them” stresses personal responsibility, making it clear that the punishment is a direct result of the individual’s own actions, not something imposed unfairly.