“Neither shalt thou take a wife to her sister, to vex her, to uncover her nakedness, beside the other in her lifetime.”
Context: Leviticus 18 is a chapter that outlines various sexual laws and prohibitions given by God to the Israelites. These laws were meant to set them apart as a holy nation and promote sexual purity.
Prohibition on Marrying Sisters: Leviticus 18:18 specifically addresses the issue of marrying sisters. It states that a man should not take a wife’s sister as a second wife while the first wife is still alive. This was considered a form of vexation or distress to the first wife and was not allowed.
Uncovering Nakedness: The phrase “uncover her nakedness” is a euphemism used throughout Leviticus 18 to refer to sexual relations. It represents an intimate act that is meant to be reserved for the proper context of marriage.
Family Relationships and Holiness: The prohibition against marrying sisters is part of a broader set of laws in Leviticus 18 that regulate sexual relationships within the family. God established these laws to ensure family integrity, prevent moral corruption, and maintain the sanctity of marriage.
Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, it was not uncommon for men to have multiple wives or engage in practices that were considered immoral according to God’s standards. The laws in Leviticus 18 served as a clear guideline for the Israelites to differentiate themselves from the surrounding nations and live according to God’s moral standards.
Application to Christians: While the Old Testament laws, including the specific prohibition in Leviticus 18:18, were given to the Israelites under the Mosaic covenant, Christians today are not bound by these particular regulations. However, the underlying principles of sexual purity, faithfulness in marriage, and respect for one’s spouse are still relevant and emphasized in the New Testament.
New Testament Teaching: Jesus reaffirmed the sanctity of marriage by emphasizing the original design of God for one man and one woman to become “one flesh” in marriage (Matthew 19:4-6). The Apostle Paul also instructs believers to honor their marriage vows, remain faithful to their spouses, and avoid sexual immorality (Ephesians 5:22-33, 1 Corinthians 6:18-20).
In conclusion, Leviticus 18:18 prohibits a man from taking a second wife who is the sister of his current wife while the first wife is still alive. Although Christians are not bound by this specific regulation, the principles of sexual purity, faithfulness in marriage, and respect for one’s spouse remain relevant and are reinforced in the teachings of Jesus and the New Testament writers.
