Question 1

What does Leviticus 20:19 mean?

Accepted Answer

Leviticus 20:19 commands the Israelites not to have sexual relations with their mother's sister or their father's sister, describing this as "uncovering the nakedness" of a close relative. The verse states that anyone who does this is guilty and will bear the consequences of their wrongdoing. In this verse, God is giving instructions to the people of Israel through Moses, setting out boundaries for sexual relationships within the extended family. The phrase "uncover the nakedness" is a way of referring to sexual activity, and the law is meant to protect family relationships and maintain social order. The mention of "bearing their iniquity" emphasizes personal responsibility for breaking this command.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 20:19

Accepted Answer

"uncover" (גָּלָה, galah): This word means to reveal or expose, and here it refers specifically to sexual exposure or relations. The use of this word makes clear that the command is about more than just seeing someone unclothed; it is about intimate relations. "nakedness" (עֶרְוָה, ervah): This word often means "sexual nakedness" or "sexual relations." Its use in this context highlights that the focus is on forbidden sexual acts, not just nudity. "kin" (שְׁאֵר, she'er): This word means "flesh" or "close relative." The law is specifically about relationships that are considered too close for marriage or sexual union. "bear" (נָשָׂא, nasa): This verb means to carry or bear, often used for bearing guilt or responsibility. Here, it stresses that the person who breaks this law is accountable for their action. "iniquity" (עָוֹן, avon): This word means guilt, wrongdoing, or sin. It underlines the seriousness of the offense in the eyes of the law.

Question 3

Why Leviticus 20:19 matters

Accepted Answer

Leviticus 20:19 clarifies that the laws about sexual boundaries in Israel extended beyond immediate family to include aunts, showing the importance placed on protecting the wider family structure. The verse highlights that these commands are not just social guidelines but are tied to personal responsibility and moral accountability before God. This law fits into a larger section of Leviticus that outlines various forbidden relationships, helping the reader see the broader concern for holiness and order in the community.

Leviticus 20:19 (KJV)