Leviticus 20:17 – “If a man marries his sister, the daughter of either his father or his mother, and they have sexual relations, it is a disgrace. They are to be publicly removed from their people. He has dishonored his sister and will be held responsible.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

Leviticus 20:17 addresses the sin of incest, specifically between a brother and sister. The verse explicitly condemns this act as a “disgrace” and prescribes a severe consequence: the individuals involved are to be publicly removed from their community. This removal serves both as a punishment and a warning to others. The phrase “he has dishonored his sister” emphasizes that this sin is not only a violation of God’s commands but also a profound breach of family respect and honor. The verse ends with the reminder that the individual involved “will be held responsible,” highlighting personal accountability for actions that go against God’s standards.

Historical Context

In ancient Israel, family relationships were meant to reflect order, respect, and proper boundaries as set by God. The family unit was central to the community’s structure and identity, and any behavior that disrupted these relationships was seen as a serious threat to the moral and social fabric of society. In a time when maintaining the purity and integrity of the family was crucial, incest was seen as a direct violation of God’s design for human relationships. God’s laws, including this one, were given to set Israel apart from the surrounding pagan cultures, many of which did not uphold the same standards for sexual purity.

Theological Implications

Theologically, Leviticus 20:17 emphasizes God’s concern for the sanctity of family relationships. God created family as a place of safety, respect, and nurture, and any act that distorts these values is seen as deeply offensive to Him. This verse teaches that God’s standards for sexual purity are not just about avoiding certain behaviors but about honoring the relationships He has established. It underscores the need for personal responsibility in maintaining these boundaries, as failure to do so leads to serious consequences. God’s command is clear: to protect and uphold the dignity of family relationships in a way that reflects His holiness.

Literary Analysis

Leviticus 20:17 is structured in a straightforward way, clearly identifying the sin, the nature of the offense, and the consequence. The use of the word “disgrace” highlights the severity of the act and the social and spiritual implications of such behavior. The directive that the offenders are to be “publicly removed” adds a communal aspect to the punishment, showing that the impact of this sin extends beyond the individuals involved to affect the whole community. The phrase “held responsible” reinforces the idea of personal accountability, making it clear that these actions are not just private matters but violations that demand public acknowledgment and correction.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Leviticus 18:9: “Do not have sexual relations with your sister, either your father’s daughter or your mother’s daughter, whether she was born in the same home or elsewhere.” This verse clearly prohibits incest and establishes boundaries for family relationships.
• Deuteronomy 27:22: “Cursed is anyone who sleeps with his sister, the daughter of his father or the daughter of his mother.” This curse highlights the seriousness of violating family boundaries.
• 2 Samuel 13:1-22: The story of Amnon and Tamar is a tragic example of the consequences of incest, showing the deep pain and destruction it brings to families.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For today’s Christian, Leviticus 20:17 serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring family relationships and maintaining the boundaries God has set. While the specific behavior addressed may not be common, the principle behind it remains relevant: God’s people are called to respect the sanctity of family and to uphold standards of purity and honor. This verse challenges Christians to examine their relationships and ensure that they reflect God’s design and character. It also serves as a call to personal accountability, reminding believers that their actions have consequences, both for themselves and for their community.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Though this verse speaks of punishment, it ultimately reflects God’s love and desire to protect His people from actions that harm relationships and degrade human dignity. God’s laws are given out of His concern for the well-being of His people, guiding them away from behaviors that lead to pain, shame, and division. By setting clear boundaries, God is showing His care for the family unit and His commitment to preserving its integrity. His love is seen in His desire to keep His people from actions that dishonor themselves and others, leading them instead toward a life that reflects His holiness and order.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ came to fulfill the law and to offer grace, forgiveness, and restoration to all who turn to Him. While the Old Testament law required strict consequences for sin, Jesus offers a path of healing and redemption. Through His sacrifice on the cross, Jesus took on the punishment that we deserve, making a way for us to be forgiven and restored to right relationships with God and others. In John 8:11, Jesus tells the woman caught in sin, “Go now and leave your life of sin,” demonstrating both His compassion and His call to live according to God’s standards. Jesus provides the strength and guidance needed to live in a way that honors God’s design for relationships.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does Leviticus 20:17 challenge you to think about the importance of respecting boundaries within family relationships?
2. What does this verse teach you about God’s desire to protect the integrity of the family?
3. How can you uphold God’s standards for purity and respect in your own actions and attitudes?
4. How does understanding the consequences of sin deepen your appreciation for the forgiveness offered through Jesus?
5. What steps can you take to live in a way that reflects God’s holiness and honors the family structures He has established?

Reflecting on these questions can help deepen your understanding of God’s standards, His love for His people, and the hope that comes through Jesus Christ.