“And if a man take a wife and her mother, it is wickedness: they shall be burnt with fire, both he and they; that there be no wickedness among you.”
This verse is part of the Old Testament book of Leviticus, which contains various laws and regulations given to the Israelites by God through Moses. Leviticus 20:14 specifically addresses the issue of a man marrying both a woman and her mother.
Cultural and Historical Context:To understand the meaning and significance of this verse, it’s essential to consider the cultural and historical context of ancient Israel. In ancient Israelite society, marriage was a sacred covenant ordained by God and held in high regard. The laws in Leviticus aimed to regulate various aspects of life, including marriage, to ensure holiness and the proper order of society.
Prohibition and Consequences: Leviticus 20:14 explicitly prohibits a man from marrying both a woman and her mother. This practice is considered wickedness or an abomination in the sight of God. The consequences for violating this prohibition were severe-both the man and the two women involved were to be burned with fire. This punishment was intended to eliminate the wickedness from among the Israelites.
Moral and Spiritual Implications: This prohibition carries moral and spiritual implications. Marrying both a woman and her mother goes against the established order of marriage and family, which is to be based on mutual love, respect, and fidelity. Such a relationship would cause confusion, disharmony, and potential harm within the family unit. Moreover, it violates the principle of monogamy, which is widely upheld as a sacred bond between one man and one woman in many cultures and religions.
Symbolic Meaning: In addition to the literal application of this law, there may be symbolic and spiritual meanings behind it. Throughout the Bible, marriage is often used as a metaphor for the relationship between God and His people. In this context, the prohibition against marrying a wife and her mother could symbolize the purity and exclusivity of the covenant between God and His people. It emphasizes the importance of remaining faithful and avoiding any spiritual unfaithfulness or idolatry.
Application for Today: As Christians, we understand that the Old Testament laws, including the laws in Leviticus, were given to the Israelites under the Old Covenant. With the coming of Jesus Christ and the establishment of the New Covenant, Christians are no longer bound by the ceremonial and civil laws of the Old Testament. However, the moral principles behind these laws, rooted in God’s unchanging character, still hold relevance for our lives.
While the specific prohibition mentioned in Leviticus 20:14 may not directly apply to us today, it reminds us of the importance of honoring God’s design for marriage and family. It encourages us to cultivate relationships based on love, faithfulness, and mutual respect. It also serves as a reminder to avoid any form of wickedness or actions that undermine the sanctity and purpose of marriage.
In conclusion, Leviticus 20:14 addresses the prohibition against a man marrying both a woman and her mother. It highlights the importance of upholding the sanctity of marriage, promoting fidelity, and avoiding practices that deviate from God’s established order. As Christians, we can learn from this verse and apply its underlying principles to our own lives as we seek to honor God in our relationships.
