Leviticus 18 contains a series of laws and instructions given by God to the Israelites regarding sexual morality. The chapter begins with a command to the people of Israel not to follow the immoral practices of the Egyptians or the Canaanites, who were living in the land before them. God warns them against engaging in various sexual acts that are considered sinful and defiling.
The chapter specifically addresses prohibited relationships, such as incestuous relationships with close family members, including parents, siblings, and other relatives. It also forbids adultery and other sexual acts with a neighbor’s wife. The Israelites are instructed not to sacrifice their children to Molech, a pagan god associated with child sacrifice.
God emphasizes the importance of holiness and keeping His statutes, warning that violating these laws will lead to the expulsion from the land, just as He expelled the nations before them. The chapter concludes with a reminder to the Israelites to obey God’s commandments and not to defile themselves with the abominable practices of the nations they are displacing.
To delve deeper into the context and meanings behind each verse of Leviticus 18, click the links below: