Leviticus 18:19
“You shall not approach a woman to uncover her nakedness while she is in her menstrual uncleanness.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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This prohibition isn't just about avoiding intercourse; the phrase "approach a woman to uncover her nakedness" highlights the intent and action of sexual intimacy, extending beyond just the act itself. It underscores that even the initiation or pursuit of such relations during this specific time was considered a serious transgression.
Following a series of laws about proper sexual relations within marriage and prohibitions against various forms of incest, this verse addresses intimacy during a woman's menstrual period. It's part of a larger section detailing forbidden sexual acts to set Israel apart as holy, distinguishing them from the practices of surrounding nations. The consequence for violating this specific law was severe, carrying a penalty of being cut off from the people, highlighting its seriousness as both a ceremonial and moral offense.
This command from Leviticus might seem strange or outdated at first glance. But what was the heart behind it, and what does it reveal about God's perspective on intimacy?
God's commands in Leviticus regarding sexual purity weren't just arbitrary rules. They were deeply connected to maintaining holiness, both for individuals and the community as a whole.
Ceremonial vs. Moral Law
This specific command about intimacy during menstruation was a ceremonial prohibition. It set a boundary that, when crossed, incurred specific penalties, either ceremonial defilement or even death if done willfully. However, the commentators also note that it was seen as a gross sin, pointing to a deeper disregard for the sanctity of intimacy and God's order.
This law touches on one of the most intimate aspects of human life. What does it teach us about the sacredness of sexual union and the respect due to our partners?
While the direct application of this ceremonial law has passed with the New Covenant, the underlying principles remain incredibly relevant. God’s instructions always point to a deeper reality.
God's Design for Intimacy
Understand the original words
niddah · Hebrew Noun
A state of ritual impurity rendering a person unfit to participate in sacred activities or enter the presence of God; in this context, it relates to the biological cycle of a woman.
This passage lays the groundwork by explaining the concept of ritual uncleanness associated with a woman's monthly cycle and the purification rituals required, establishing the context for the prohibition in Leviticus 18:19.
Leviticus 20:18This verse explicitly states the severe consequence—being cut off from the people—for violating the prohibition mentioned in Leviticus 18:19, highlighting the gravity of the sin in God's eyes.
Ezekiel 18:6Ezekiel lists this specific act among the gravest sins and impurities, echoing Leviticus 18:19 and emphasizing its continued recognition as a serious offense against God's order.
Romans 1:26-27Paul speaks about humanity exchanging natural relations for those contrary to nature, which conceptually aligns with the violation of God's prescribed boundaries for sexual intimacy laid out in Leviticus 18, including this specific prohibition.
gillLeviticus 18:19: "Also thou shalt not approach unto a woman to uncover her nakedness, as long as she is put apart for her uncleanness."
Also thou shall not approach unto a woman,.... Not even a man to his own wife, and much less to another woman: to uncover her nakedness, as long as she is put apart for her uncleanness; in her monthly courses; and the time of her separation from her husband on that account was seven days, Leviticus 15:19; if a man lay with a woman when in such circumstances, th…
pulpitLeviticus 18:19: "Also thou shalt not approach unto a woman to uncover her nakedness, as long as she is put apart for her uncleanness."
Verse 19. - The marriage restrictions having been laid down, there follows in the five next verses the prohibition of five sexual impurities unconnected with marriage except by their subject-matter. The first is to approach unto a woman to uncover her nakedness, as long as she is put apart for her uncleanness, that is, either for seven days at the time of her o…
This prohibition isn't just about avoiding intercourse; the phrase "approach a woman to uncover her nakedness" highlights the intent and action of sexual intimacy, extending beyond just the act itself. It underscores that even the initiation or pursuit of such relations during this specific time was considered a serious transgression.
Following a series of laws about proper sexual relations within marriage and prohibitions against various forms of incest, this verse addresses intimacy during a woman's menstrual period. It's part of a larger section detailing forbidden sexual acts to set Israel apart as holy, distinguishing them from the practices of surrounding nations. The consequence for violating this specific law was severe, carrying a penalty of being cut off from the people, highlighting its seriousness as both a ceremonial and moral offense.
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The commentators are clear: this wasn't just about bodily fluids; it was about upholding the sanctity of the marriage covenant and recognizing God’s holiness. Even under the New Covenant, our intimacy should be characterized by honor, purity, and a deep reverence for God’s design.
Following a series of laws about proper sexual relations within marriage and prohibitions against various forms of incest, this verse addresses intimacy during a woman's menstrual period. It's part of a larger section detailing forbidden sexual acts to set Israel apart as holy, distinguishing them from the practices of surrounding nations. The consequence for violating this specific law was severe, carrying a penalty of being cut off from the people, highlighting its seriousness as both a ceremonial and moral offense.
"“You shall not approach a woman to uncover her nakedness while she is in her menstrual uncleanness." — This prohibition isn't just about avoiding intercourse; the phrase "approach a woman to uncover her nakedness" highlights the intent and action of sexual intimacy, extending beyond just the act i…
