“After the doings of the land of Egypt, wherein ye dwelt, shall ye not do: and after the doings of the land of Canaan, whither I bring you, shall ye not do: neither shall ye walk in their ordinances.”
Context:Leviticus is a book of the Old Testament that contains laws and regulations given by God to the Israelites through Moses. These laws covered various aspects of life, including moral, ceremonial, and dietary regulations. The passage in question is part of a larger section in Leviticus 18 that deals with forbidden sexual practices.
Historical Background:The verse begins by reminding the Israelites of their past in Egypt and their future destination, the land of Canaan. Egypt was known for its pagan practices and immoral behaviour, while Canaan was also filled with idolatry and wickedness. God warns the Israelites against adopting the cultural practices and ordinances of these nations.
Cultural and Moral Separation:The verse emphasises the importance of maintaining a clear distinction between the Israelites and the surrounding nations. God’s people were called to live differently and follow His laws instead of imitating the customs and practices of the Egyptians or the Canaanites. This separation was essential to uphold the holiness and distinctiveness of the Israelite community.
Contrast with Egyptian Practices:Egypt was steeped in idolatry and moral degradation. The Egyptians worshiped multiple gods and practised various immoral acts, such as incest and other sexual sins. By prohibiting the Israelites from imitating the Egyptians, God aimed to protect His people from the negative influences of their surroundings and to preserve their purity.
Contrast with Canaanite Practices:Similarly, the Canaanites were notorious for their idolatry and wicked practices, including fertility cults and sexual immorality. God warned the Israelites against adopting the practices and ordinances of the Canaanites, as this would lead them astray from His commandments and corrupt their relationship with Him.
Application for Today:While the specific cultural practices mentioned in Leviticus 18 may not directly apply to us today, the underlying principle of separation from worldly influences remains relevant. As believers, we are called to live distinctively, set apart from the values and behaviours of the world around us. We are to follow God’s moral standards, which are outlined throughout the Bible, and not conform to the cultural norms that contradict His Word.
In summary, Leviticus 18:3 serves as a reminder to the Israelites, and by extension to us, that we are not to imitate the cultural practices and ordinances of the nations around us. We are called to live in a way that reflects our commitment to God’s commandments and to maintain a distinct and holy lifestyle.
