Leviticus 20:12 - “‘If a man lies with his daughter-in-law, both of them shall surely be put to death: they have committed a perversion; their blood shall be upon them.
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What does "Leviticus 20:12" mean?
This verse from Leviticus 20:12 explicitly condemns sexual relations between a man and his daughter-in-law. Let's break it down:
"If a man lies with his daughter-in-law...": This clearly refers to sexual intercourse between a man and his son's wife.
"...both of them shall surely be put to death...": The prescribed punishment for this act, according to this verse, is capital punishment for both parties involved.
"...they have committed a perversion...": The Hebrew word translated as "perversion" (tevel) signifies something that is a confusion, a mixing up of categories, or an abomination. It indicates that this act is seen as deeply unnatural and violating the established order.
"...their blood shall be upon them.": This phrase means they are responsible for their own deaths. It signifies guilt and that they are deserving of the consequences.
Contextual Considerations:
Levitical Law: It's crucial to understand that Leviticus is part of the Old Testament Law, specifically dealing with religious and social codes for the ancient Israelites.
Interpretation and Application: Interpretations of Levitical law vary widely. Some believe it should be taken literally and applied today, while others view it as specific to its historical context and no longer binding on Christians or modern society. Some Jewish traditions also offer alternative interpretations and leniencies based on specific circumstances.
Cultural Norms: Incestuous relationships are condemned across many cultures. This prohibition may have stemmed from concerns about genetic issues, social disruption, or maintaining the integrity of family lines and inheritance.
Important Considerations:
Modern Legal Systems: Modern legal systems generally do not prescribe the death penalty for such acts, though they are typically illegal and considered a form of incest. The specific laws and penalties vary by jurisdiction.
Ethics and Morality: Even outside a strictly religious context, incestuous relationships are widely regarded as unethical due to potential power imbalances, harm to family structures, and psychological damage.
In summary, Leviticus 20:12 strongly condemns sexual relations between a man and his daughter-in-law, prescribing the death penalty for both involved parties. The act is considered a "perversion," and those who commit it are held responsible for the consequences. Understanding this verse requires considering its historical, cultural, and religious context, as well as its varying interpretations and applications throughout history.
Leviticus 20:12 - “‘If a man lies with his daughter-in-law, both of them shall surely be put to death: they have committed a perversion; their blood shall be upon them.
What does "Leviticus 20:12" mean?
This verse from Leviticus 20:12 explicitly condemns sexual relations between a man and his daughter-in-law. Let's break it down:
"If a man lies with his daughter-in-law...": This clearly refers to sexual intercourse between a man and his son's wife.
"...both of them shall surely be put to death...": The prescribed punishment for this act, according to this verse, is capital punishment for both parties involved.
"...they have committed a perversion...": The Hebrew word translated as "perversion" (tevel) signifies something that is a confusion, a mixing up of categories, or an abomination. It indicates that this act is seen as deeply unnatural and violating the established order.
"...their blood shall be upon them.": This phrase means they are responsible for their own deaths. It signifies guilt and that they are deserving of the consequences.
Contextual Considerations:
Levitical Law: It's crucial to understand that Leviticus is part of the Old Testament Law, specifically dealing with religious and social codes for the ancient Israelites.
Interpretation and Application: Interpretations of Levitical law vary widely. Some believe it should be taken literally and applied today, while others view it as specific to its historical context and no longer binding on Christians or modern society. Some Jewish traditions also offer alternative interpretations and leniencies based on specific circumstances.
Cultural Norms: Incestuous relationships are condemned across many cultures. This prohibition may have stemmed from concerns about genetic issues, social disruption, or maintaining the integrity of family lines and inheritance.
Important Considerations:
Modern Legal Systems: Modern legal systems generally do not prescribe the death penalty for such acts, though they are typically illegal and considered a form of incest. The specific laws and penalties vary by jurisdiction.
Ethics and Morality: Even outside a strictly religious context, incestuous relationships are widely regarded as unethical due to potential power imbalances, harm to family structures, and psychological damage.
In summary, Leviticus 20:12 strongly condemns sexual relations between a man and his daughter-in-law, prescribing the death penalty for both involved parties. The act is considered a "perversion," and those who commit it are held responsible for the consequences. Understanding this verse requires considering its historical, cultural, and religious context, as well as its varying interpretations and applications throughout history.