King James Version

What Does Leviticus 18:8 Mean?

Leviticus 18:8 in the King James Version says “The nakedness of thy father's wife shalt thou not uncover: it is thy father's nakedness.” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 18 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“The nakedness of thy father's wife shalt thou not uncover: it is thy father's nakedness.”

Leviticus 18:8 · KJV

Context

6

None of you shall approach to any that is near of kin to him, to uncover their nakedness: I am the LORD. near: Heb. remainder of his flesh

7

The nakedness of thy father, or the nakedness of thy mother, shalt thou not uncover: she is thy mother; thou shalt not uncover her nakedness.

8

The nakedness of thy father's wife shalt thou not uncover: it is thy father's nakedness.

9

The nakedness of thy sister, the daughter of thy father, or daughter of thy mother, whether she be born at home, or born abroad, even their nakedness thou shalt not uncover.

10

The nakedness of thy son's daughter, or of thy daughter's daughter, even their nakedness thou shalt not uncover: for theirs is thine own nakedness.

Read Leviticus 18 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The nakedness of thy father's wife shalt thou not uncover: it is thy father's nakedness.

This verse falls within the section on Unlawful Sexual Relations. Prohibitions against various sexual sins, distinguishing Israel from Canaanite practices and protecting family sanctity.


The access to God's presence that Leviticus carefully regulated is now freely available through Christ's blood, tearing the veil and opening the way to God.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Prohibitions against various sexual sins, distinguishing Israel from Canaanite practices and protecting family sanctity. Chapters 17-27, often called the 'Holiness Code,' expand covenant obligations beyond ritual to encompass all of life—sexuality, economics, justice, and relationships. The repeated refrain 'I am the LORD' grounds these laws in God's character and covenant relationship with Israel. Israel received these laws while encamped at Sinai, before entering Canaan. The laws prepared them for life in the promised land, distinguishing them from Canaanite practices and establishing their identity as God's holy nation. The portable tabernacle, central to Levitical worship, accompanied them through wilderness wanderings and eventually found permanent form in Solomon's temple. Ancient texts like the Code of Hammurabi show that law codes were common in the ancient Near East, but biblical law uniquely grounded ethics in God's character rather than merely social convention.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does this verse teach about the seriousness of sin, the cost of redemption, or the beauty of holiness?
  2. In what practical ways should this verse influence your church life, family relationships, or personal integrity?
  3. How does this verse point to Christ, and how does that deepen your faith and gratitude?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
עֶרְוַ֥ת1 of 8

“The nakedness”

H6172

nudity, literally (especially the pudenda) or figuratively (disgrace, blemish)

אֵֽשֶׁת2 of 8

“wife”

H802

a woman

אָבִ֖יךָ3 of 8

“it is thy father's”

H1

father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application

לֹ֣א4 of 8
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

תְגַלֵּ֑ה5 of 8

“shalt thou not uncover”

H1540

to denude (especially in a disgraceful sense); by implication, to exile (captives being usually stripped); figuratively, to reveal

עֶרְוַ֥ת6 of 8

“The nakedness”

H6172

nudity, literally (especially the pudenda) or figuratively (disgrace, blemish)

אָבִ֖יךָ7 of 8

“it is thy father's”

H1

father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application

הִֽוא׃8 of 8
H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

Study Guide

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 18:8 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 18:8 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Leviticus 20:111 Corinthians 5:1Deuteronomy 22:30Deuteronomy 27:20Amos 2:7Genesis 49:4

Test Your Knowledge

Leviticus 18 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterLeviticus Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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