Leviticus 18:17
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.
Leviticus 18:17 (KJV)
Context
Leviticus is part of the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible. It records the laws God gave to Israel through Moses. Leviticus 18 contains many commands about sexual purity and holy conduct. These laws helped the Israelites live as a people set apart for God. They were given in the context of the covenant, calling Israel to reflect God’s holiness in every area of life.
Meaning
This verse forbids a man from having sexual relations with a woman and also with her daughter. The command extends to the woman’s granddaughters, whether through her son or her daughter. These women are called “near kinswomen.” Such acts are described as “wickedness.” The Hebrew word for wickedness here means a severe moral offense, not merely a social mistake. It shows that God treats these sins with great seriousness. The prohibition protects the family from confusion and harm. When sexual intimacy enters close family bonds, it damages trust and breaks the order God designed. The family is meant to be a place of safety and honor, not exploitation.
Biblical connections
This law belongs to the Holiness Code, which teaches God’s people to be holy because God is holy. The same chapter also forbids other unlawful unions, such as with a close relative or during a woman’s monthly period. These commands together show that sexual intimacy belongs only within the marriage covenant. The New Testament continues this teaching, calling believers to flee sexual immorality and honor God with their bodies (1 Corinthians 6:18-20). The principle of protecting family boundaries is consistent throughout Scripture, showing that God’s design for the family is to be honored.
Application
Christians today are not bound by the ceremonial and civil laws of the Old Testament, but the moral principles behind them remain. This command reminds believers to keep sexual purity and integrity within their families. It calls them to respect healthy boundaries and avoid any relationship that would blur or violate God’s design. The underlying principle is that God’s people are called to holiness in all areas of life, including their most intimate relationships.
Respect family boundaries: Treat parents, children, and extended relatives with honor, never allowing inappropriate intimacy.
Protect family unity: Avoid actions that would cause conflict, shame, or division among relatives.
Pursue sexual purity: Reserve sexual intimacy for marriage, as Scripture teaches elsewhere.
Reflection
God’s command here is not harsh but protective. It guards the family, which is the foundation of society. When people follow this law, they honor God and one another. The verse also points to a deeper truth: God’s people are called to holiness in every area of life, including the most private ones. This command invites believers to examine their own relationships and to thank God for the clear boundaries He gives for our good. It also reminds us that God’s laws are given out of love, to protect us from harm and to lead us into flourishing relationships.
