King James Version
What Does Leviticus 18:19 Mean?
“Also thou shalt not approach unto a woman to uncover her nakedness, as long as she is put apart for her uncleanness.”
Context
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.
18
Neither shalt thou take a wife to her sister, to vex her, to uncover her nakedness, beside the other in her life time. a wife: or, one wife to another
19
Also thou shalt not approach unto a woman to uncover her nakedness, as long as she is put apart for her uncleanness.
20
Moreover thou shalt not lie carnally with thy neighbour's wife, to defile thyself with her.
21
And thou shalt not let any of thy seed pass through the fire to Molech, neither shalt thou profane the name of thy God: I am the LORD. Molech: Gr. Moloch
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(19) **Also thou shalt not approach.**—Literally, *thou shalt not approach. *The marriage laws are now followed by sexual impurities, which to some extent are suggested by the subjects that had necessarily to be discussed or hinted at in regulating the alliance in question.
**As long as she is put apart.**—Put apart, *i.e., *seven days. (See Leviticus 15:19.) For consorting with her without being aware of her condition the man contracted defilement for seven days (see Leviticus 15:24), and for committing this gross act presumptuously, both parties to it were visited with death. (See Leviticus 20:18.) Ezekiel refers to the transgression of this law as one of the heinous sins perpetrated by the people of Israel (Ezekiel 18:16; Ezekiel 22:10).
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Leviticus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Leviticus 18:19 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Leviticus 18:19
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge