What does Leviticus 18:17 mean?

Leviticus 18:17 in the King James Version reads: "Thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of a woman and her daughter, neither shalt thou take her son's daughter, or her daughter's daughter, to uncover her nakedness; for they are her near kinswomen: it is wickedness."

This verse is part of the broader context of Leviticus 18, which primarily deals with laws concerning sexual morality and the relationships between family members. The chapter begins by commanding the Israelites not to imitate the practices of the Egyptians and Canaanites, who engaged in incest and other sexual sins. The specific verses within Leviticus 18 contain prohibitions against having sexual relations with various relatives, including one's parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

In verse 17, the focus shifts to the prohibition against engaging in sexual relations with a woman and her daughter. The verse specifies that one should not take the daughter of a woman and engage in sexual relations with her, nor should one take the granddaughter (the daughter of the daughter) for the same purpose. The rationale for these prohibitions is stated explicitly: these individuals are close relatives, and to engage in such behavior is considered wickedness.

The broader theme of Leviticus 18 is the establishment of moral boundaries governing sexual conduct within the community of Israel. These boundaries are intended to promote holiness and maintain the purity of the people. The list of prohibited relationships is intended to ensure that these boundaries are respected, and that the people conduct themselves in a manner that is in accordance with God's will.

The prohibition against incestuous relationships also reflects a broader concern for the preservation of family integrity and the promotion of healthy relationships. Incestuous relationships can lead to emotional and psychological harm, as well as complications in family dynamics. By prohibiting these relationships, the Israelites are encouraged to prioritize the well-being of their families and communities.

Symbolically, the prohibition against uncovering the nakedness of close relatives serves as a metaphor for the need to maintain respect and honor within familial relationships. The concept of "nakedness" in this context refers not only to physical exposure but also to a vulnerability and intimacy that should be reserved for the appropriate contexts. By refraining from engaging in inappropriate sexual conduct with close relatives, the Israelites are reminded to maintain proper boundaries and uphold the sanctity of family relationships.

From a historical and cultural perspective, these laws served as a way of distinguishing the Israelites from the surrounding pagan cultures. The practices that were common in those cultures, such as incestuous relationships, were viewed as abhorrent and contrary to the moral codes that the Israelites were called to uphold as the chosen people of God.

In conclusion, Leviticus 18:17, along with the broader context of the chapter, addresses the issue of sexual morality and the preservation of familial and community integrity. By establishing clear boundaries for appropriate sexual conduct, the verse aims to promote holiness, uphold family values, and distinguish the Israelites from the surrounding pagan cultures. The prohibition against uncovering the nakedness of close relatives serves as a symbolic reminder to maintain respect, honor, and appropriate relational boundaries within the family unit.

Artwork for Leviticus 18:17

Leviticus 18:17 - "Thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of a woman and her daughter, neither shalt thou take her son's daughter, or her daughter's daughter, to uncover her nakedness; for they are her near kinswomen: it is wickedness."

"Thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of a woman and her daughter, neither shalt thou take her son's daughter, or her daughter's daughter, to uncover her nakedness; for they are her near kinswomen: it is wickedness." - Leviticus 18:17

Leviticus 17:7

Leviticus 23:17-22

Leviticus 11:18 - "And the swan, and the pelican, and the gier eagle,"

Leviticus 11:17 - "And the little owl, and the cormorant, and the great owl,"

Leviticus 22:17 - "¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"

Matthew 17:17-18

Leviticus 18:1 - "And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"

Matthew 17:17-18

Leviticus 17:1 - "And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"

Leviticus 18:22 - "Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination."

Leviticus 7:17 - "But the remainder of the flesh of the sacrifice on the third day shall be burnt with fire."

Leviticus 18:18 - "Neither shalt thou take a wife to her sister, to vex her, to uncover her nakedness, beside the other in her life time."

Leviticus 13:18 - "¶ The flesh also, in which, even in the skin thereof, was a boil, and is healed,"

John 7:17-18

John 7:17-18

Leviticus 24:18 - "And he that killeth a beast shall make it good; beast for beast."

Leviticus 24:17 - "¶ And he that killeth any man shall surely be put to death."

John 7:17-18

John 7:17-18

Leviticus 18:16 - "Thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of thy brother's wife: it is thy brother's nakedness."

Genesis 18-17

Leviticus 18:8 - "The nakedness of thy father's wife shalt thou not uncover: it is thy father's nakedness."

Genesis 17-18

"And the swan, and the pelican, and the gier eagle," - Leviticus 11:18

Leviticus 18:20 - "Moreover thou shalt not lie carnally with thy neighbour's wife, to defile thyself with her."

Leviticus 18:2 - "Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, I am the LORD your God."

Matthew 6:17-18

Psalm 139:17-18