“Whosoever lieth with a beast shall surely be put to death.”
This verse is part of the book of Exodus, which contains the account of the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt and their journey toward the Promised Land. It is a part of the laws and regulations given by God to the Israelites through Moses, commonly known as the Mosaic Law or the Law of Moses.
In this particular verse, God issues a commandment regarding bestiality. It states that anyone who engages in sexual relations with an animal is to be put to death. This prohibition reflects God’s intention to establish moral and sexual boundaries within the Israelite community.
It is important to understand the context of this verse within the larger framework of the Mosaic Law. The Law of Moses covered various aspects of life, including moral, ceremonial, and civil regulations, and it served as a guide for the Israelites to live in obedience to God. The laws were designed to promote righteousness, justice, and holiness among the people of Israel.
The prohibition against bestiality in Exodus 22:19 falls within the moral and sexual regulations outlined in the Mosaic Law. It was intended to maintain the sanctity of human sexuality, which is intended by God to be expressed solely within the context of marriage between a man and a woman (Genesis 2:24).
The severity of the punishment, death in this case, highlights the gravity of the offense. Bestiality is a perversion of the natural order established by God, and it violates the inherent dignity of both humans and animals. By prescribing such a severe penalty, God underscores the seriousness of this act and its destructive nature.
It’s worth noting that the laws given in the Old Testament, including Exodus 22:19, were specifically addressed to the ancient Israelites. While they provide insights into God’s moral standards and principles, Christians today are not bound by the civil and ceremonial aspects of the Mosaic Law. However, the moral principles underlying these laws, including sexual purity and the sanctity of marriage, still carry significance for believers today.
In summary, Exodus 22:19 is a commandment from God that prohibits bestiality and prescribes the punishment of death for those who engage in it. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining sexual purity and upholding the sanctity of human relationships as established by God.
