What does Leviticus 20:19 mean?

Leviticus 20:19 in the King James Version of the Bible states, "And thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of thy mother's sister, nor of thy father's sister: for he uncovereth his near kin: they shall bear their iniquity."

This verse is part of the Book of Leviticus, which is the third book of the Hebrew Bible and the Old Testament. The book primarily focuses on the laws and regulations of the Israelite people, specifically in relation to worship, sacrifices, and moral conduct.

The verse addresses the prohibition against incest, specifically forbidding the act of uncovering the nakedness of one's mother's sister or father's sister. In the broader context of Leviticus, this verse is part of a larger set of laws and regulations governing sexual conduct and relationships. These laws were crucial for maintaining the moral and spiritual purity of the Israelite community.

In understanding the deeper meaning and commentary of this verse, it is important to consider the cultural and historical context in which these laws were given. The Israelites were a tribal society with a strong emphasis on family structure and lineage. Incest was seen as a violation of the natural order and a threat to the purity of familial and tribal relationships. The prohibition against uncovering the nakedness of close relatives, such as one's mother's sister or father's sister, was a way to uphold the sanctity of family bonds and prevent moral corruption within the community.

Additionally, the concept of "bearing their iniquity" in the verse suggests that those who engage in such forbidden relationships will bear the consequences of their actions. This is in line with the broader theme of accountability and responsibility found throughout the Bible. The Israelites were called to uphold a high moral standard and were held accountable for their actions before God and their community.

Symbolically, the prohibition against incest in Leviticus 20:19 serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting and preserving the sanctity of familial relationships. It reinforces the idea that healthy family dynamics are essential for the well-being of individuals and the community as a whole. Furthermore, it emphasizes the concept of boundaries and the importance of maintaining moral and ethical standards within interpersonal relationships.

From a theological standpoint, Leviticus 20:19 can be seen as part of God's plan to establish a community that lives according to His divine order. By prohibiting incestuous relationships, God set the parameters for healthy and morally sound family structures. This reflects God's desire for His people to live in harmony and righteousness, in accordance with His will.

In conclusion, Leviticus 20:19 carries profound significance within the broader context of the laws and regulations given to the Israelites. It addresses the prohibition against incest and underscores the importance of maintaining moral purity and familial sanctity. The verse serves as a reminder of the significance of healthy family dynamics and the responsibility of individuals to uphold moral and ethical standards within their relationships. Ultimately, it reflects the divine wisdom and guidance of God in establishing a community that lives in accordance with His divine order.

Artwork for Leviticus 20:19

Leviticus 20:19 - "And thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of thy mother's sister, nor of thy father's sister: for he uncovereth his near kin: they shall bear their iniquity."

"And thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of thy mother's sister, nor of thy father's sister: for he uncovereth his near kin: they shall bear their iniquity." - Leviticus 20:19

Leviticus 19:20 - "¶ And whosoever lieth carnally with a woman, that is a bondmaid, betrothed to an husband, and not at all redeemed, nor freedom given her; she shall be scourged; they shall not be put to death, because she was not free."

Leviticus 23:20

Leviticus 24:20-23

Leviticus 21:19 - "Or a man that is brokenfooted, or brokenhanded,"

Leviticus 20:1 - "And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"

Leviticus 10:20 - "And when Moses heard that, he was content."

Leviticus 6:19 - "¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"

Leviticus 19:1 - "And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"

Leviticus 11:19 - "And the stork, the heron after her kind, and the lapwing, and the bat."

Leviticus 19:7 - "And if it be eaten at all on the third day, it is abominable; it shall not be accepted."

Leviticus 20:22-26 simple picture

Picture to summarize Leviticus 20:22-26

"Or a man that is brokenfooted, or brokenhanded," - Leviticus 21:19

Leviticus 5:19 - "It is a trespass offering: he hath certainly trespassed against the LORD."

Leviticus 19:35 - "¶ Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment, in meteyard, in weight, or in measure."

Leviticus 20:20 - "And if a man shall lie with his uncle's wife, he hath uncovered his uncle's nakedness: they shall bear their sin; they shall die childless."

Leviticus 8:19 - "And he killed it; and Moses sprinkled the blood upon the altar round about."

Leviticus 19:33 - "¶ And if a stranger sojourn with thee in your land, ye shall not vex him."

Genesis 19-20

Genesis 20-19

Leviticus 9:20 - "And they put the fat upon the breasts, and he burnt the fat upon the altar:"

Leviticus 8:20 - "And he cut the ram into pieces; and Moses burnt the head, and the pieces, and the fat."

Leviticus 22:20 - "But whatsoever hath a blemish, that shall ye not offer: for it shall not be acceptable for you."

Leviticus 19:11 - "¶ Ye shall not steal, neither deal falsely, neither lie one to another."

Leviticus 19:24 - "But in the fourth year all the fruit thereof shall be holy to praise the LORD withal."

Leviticus 20:7 - "¶ Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God."

Leviticus 13:19 - "And in the place of the boil there be a white rising, or a bright spot, white, and somewhat reddish, and it be shewed to the priest;"

Leviticus 22:19 - "Ye shall offer at your own will a male without blemish, of the beeves, of the sheep, or of the goats."