Leviticus 18:18

KJV

Neither shalt thou take a wife to her sister, to vex [her], to uncover her nakedness, beside the other in her life [time].

KJV (with Strong's)

Neither shalt thou take {H3947} a wife {H802} to her sister {H269}, to vex {H6887} her, to uncover {H1540} her nakedness {H6172}, beside the other in her life {H2416} time.

Complete Jewish Bible

You are not to take a woman to be a rival with her sister and have sexual relations with her while her sister is still alive.

Berean Standard Bible

You must not take your wife’s sister as a rival wife and have sexual relations with her while your wife is still alive.

American Standard Version

And thou shalt not take a wife to her sister, to be a rival to her, to uncover her nakedness, besides the other in her life-time.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 18:18 prohibits a man from marrying two sisters concurrently, or sequentially while the first sister is still alive. This specific injunction, part of God's broader moral legislation for Israel, aims to prevent deep-seated relational strife, jealousy, and emotional distress within the family unit, thereby safeguarding the sanctity and harmony of the marital bond and the purity of the Israelite community, reflecting God's concern for human welfare and societal order.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Leviticus 18:18 is embedded within a comprehensive chapter (Leviticus 18) that meticulously outlines a series of forbidden sexual relationships. This chapter, often considered part of the "Holiness Code" (Leviticus 17-26), serves as a foundational declaration of God's moral standards for His covenant people. The prohibitions detail various forms of incest, bestiality, and other sexual abominations, all designed to distinguish Israel from the corrupt and defiling practices of the surrounding Canaanite nations. The overarching purpose is to establish a holy nation whose conduct reflects the righteous character of God, emphasizing that these laws are not arbitrary but are essential for maintaining purity, order, and the well-being of society and the family. The severity of these transgressions is underscored by the dire consequences outlined later in the chapter, where the land itself is said to "vomit out" those who defile it with such abominations, as seen in [Leviticus 18:25](/leviticus/18-25 "Leviticus 18:25 - The Land Vomits Out Its Inhabitants").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, various forms of polygyny were practiced, and some cultures, though not universally, may have permitted marriage to sisters. However, God's law here explicitly forbids this specific practice for Israel. This prohibition stands in stark contrast to the prevailing customs of nations like Egypt and Canaan, whose sexual practices were often characterized by widespread immorality and perversion. The divine command in [Leviticus 18](/leviticus/18 "Leviticus 18 - Forbidden Sexual Relationships") served as a clear boundary, setting Israel apart as a holy people. A vivid, pre-Mosaic illustration of the very "vexation" this law seeks to prevent is found in the patriarchal narrative of Jacob, Leah, and Rachel. Jacob married two sisters, and their lives were marked by intense rivalry, jealousy, and emotional distress, particularly evident in Rachel's lament, "Give me children, or else I die!" as recorded in [Genesis 30:1](/genesis/30-1 "Genesis 30:1 - Rachel's Jealousy"). This historical account demonstrates the inherent relational friction and familial discord that sororal polygyny naturally engenders, providing a practical backdrop for God's wisdom in issuing this prohibition.

* **Key Themes:** The prohibition in Leviticus 18:18 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Leviticus and the broader Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of **Holiness**, emphasizing God's call for Israel to be a set-apart people whose conduct reflects His own pure character. The moral laws, including those on sexual ethics, are foundational to this divine mandate, distinguishing Israel from the defiling practices of the surrounding nations, as explicitly stated in passages like [Leviticus 18:24-30](/leviticus/18-24-30 "Leviticus 18:24-30 - Consequences of Defilement"). Another crucial theme is **Relational Harmony and Welfare**. The explicit rationale "to vex her" reveals God's deep concern for the emotional and psychological well-being of individuals within the family unit. This demonstrates divine wisdom in legislating against practices that inherently breed discord and jealousy, promoting peace and order within society. Finally, the verse reinforces the **Sanctity of Marriage** and the divine design for sexual purity, establishing clear boundaries for intimacy that uphold the integrity of the marital covenant, a principle echoed throughout Scripture from [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "Genesis 2:24 - The One-Flesh Union") onwards.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Take (Hebrew, _lâqach'_):** As a primitive root (H3947), _lâqach_ means "to take" in a wide variety of applications, including to accept, bring, buy, or seize. In this context, it refers to the act of taking a woman as a wife, signifying the formal or informal act of marriage. The negative imperative "Neither shalt thou take" directly forbids this action when it involves a sister of an existing wife, establishing a clear legal boundary.
* **Vex (Hebrew, _tsârar'_):** Derived from a primitive root (H6887) meaning "to cramp," _tsârar_ extends to literal or figurative distress, affliction, and being an adversary. In this context, it signifies causing deep emotional anguish, hostility, or intense rivalry between the sisters. The prohibition is thus fundamentally concerned with preventing relational conflict and psychological harm, underscoring God's desire for peace within the family unit.
* **Nakedness (Hebrew, _ʻervâh'_):** From a root meaning "nudity," _ʻervâh_ (H6172) refers literally to the pudenda or figuratively to disgrace and blemish. In Leviticus 18, "to uncover her nakedness" is a consistent euphemism for engaging in sexual intercourse. Its use here emphasizes the sanctity and privacy of sexual intimacy within its proper bounds, highlighting the defilement and shame associated with illicit sexual acts that violate God's design for purity.
* **Life (Hebrew, _chay'_):** Derived from the root "to be alive," _chay_ (H2416) denotes being alive, or more broadly, life itself. The phrase "in her life [time]" explicitly limits the prohibition to the period when the first sister is still living. This crucial qualifier distinguishes sororal polygyny from other forms of incest that are absolutely forbidden, implying that marrying a deceased wife's sister was not prohibited by this specific law.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Neither shalt thou take a wife to her sister":** This initial clause directly forbids the practice of sororal polygyny, meaning a man is not to marry two women who are biological sisters. This specific prohibition sets Israel's marital laws apart from some ancient Near Eastern cultures and addresses a particular relational dynamic.
* **"to vex [her]":** This crucial phrase reveals the divine rationale behind the prohibition. The intent is to prevent the deep-seated rivalry, jealousy, and emotional distress that would inevitably arise between two sisters sharing the same husband. God's law here demonstrates His profound concern for the emotional well-being and relational harmony of individuals within the family unit, recognizing the inherent conflict such a situation would create.
* **"to uncover her nakedness":** This is a consistent euphemism throughout Leviticus 18 for engaging in sexual intercourse. In this context, it underscores that the forbidden act is not just the marriage itself but the consummation of a union that God deems illicit and defiling, emphasizing the sanctity of the marital bed and the boundaries of sexual purity.
* **"beside the other in her life [time].":** This vital qualifier clarifies that the prohibition applies specifically while the first sister is still alive. It implies that marrying the sister of a deceased wife was not forbidden by this particular verse, distinguishing it from other forms of incestuous relationships that were absolutely prohibited regardless of the other party's status or life status.

#### Literary Devices
Leviticus 18:18 employs several literary devices that enhance its meaning and impact. Primarily, it functions as a **Legal Prohibition**, expressed through a direct, declarative command ("Neither shalt thou take..."). This imperative form underscores the absolute and non-negotiable nature of God's law. The phrase "to uncover her nakedness" serves as a powerful **Euphemism** for sexual intercourse. This device is used consistently throughout Leviticus 18 to refer to sexual relations, maintaining a degree of modesty while clearly conveying the nature of the forbidden act. Its repeated use also creates a thematic emphasis on sexual purity and the boundaries of intimacy. Furthermore, the inclusion of the phrase "to vex [her]" provides a **Teleological Explanation** for the prohibition, revealing the divine wisdom and compassionate intent behind the law—it is designed to prevent relational strife and emotional harm, highlighting God's concern for the well-being of His people beyond mere ritualistic compliance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Leviticus 18:18, while addressing a specific marital prohibition, resonates with profound theological principles concerning God's design for marriage, His character, and the nature of holiness. It reveals a God who is not only concerned with physical acts but also with the emotional and relational health of His people. The prohibition against marrying sisters "to vex her" underscores God's desire for peace, unity, and mutual respect within the marital bond, reflecting His own orderly and harmonious nature. This law, like others in the Holiness Code, aims to set Israel apart as a people whose relationships reflect divine wisdom and purity, contrasting sharply with the chaotic and defiling practices of surrounding nations. It teaches that true holiness extends beyond outward conformity to inward relational integrity and the prevention of inherent strife.

* [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "Genesis 2:24 - The One-Flesh Union")
* [Matthew 19:4-6](/matthew/19-4-6 "Matthew 19:4-6 - Jesus on Marriage and Divorce")
* [Hebrews 13:4](/hebrews/13-4 "Hebrews 13:4 - Marriage Should Be Honored by All")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the specific cultural context of sororal polygyny is uncommon today, the underlying principles of Leviticus 18:18 remain profoundly relevant for believers. This verse invites us to reflect on God's deep concern for relational harmony and the prevention of strife within our most intimate bonds. It challenges us to consider how our choices, even those seemingly permissible, might inadvertently introduce "vexation" or rivalry into our relationships, whether in marriage, family, or community. God's law here teaches us to seek peace, avoid situations inherently prone to conflict, and prioritize the emotional and spiritual well-being of others. It reinforces the sanctity of marriage as a unique, unified bond, ideally free from the complexities of inherent competition. Ultimately, it calls us to live out a standard of purity and integrity that reflects God's character, fostering environments of love, respect, and peace, rather than discord and jealousy.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's concern for relational harmony in Leviticus 18:18 inform our modern understanding of healthy family dynamics and marital relationships?**
* **In what ways might we, even unintentionally, create "vexation" or rivalry in our relationships today, and how can we apply the spirit of this law to avoid such outcomes?**
* **How does this specific prohibition contribute to a broader understanding of God's design for sexual purity and the sanctity of marriage in a contemporary context?**

### FAQ

**Is this verse a general prohibition against all forms of polygyny?**

Answer: No, Leviticus 18:18 is a specific prohibition against sororal polygyny, meaning marrying two sisters. It does not explicitly forbid other forms of polygyny, which were practiced by some individuals in Israel's history (e.g., David, Solomon) even after the Law was given, though often with negative consequences. The unique aspect of this prohibition is the stated reason: "to vex [her]," highlighting the specific relational strife inherent in such a union between sisters. The historical account of Jacob, Leah, and Rachel in [Genesis 30:1](/genesis/30-1 "Genesis 30:1 - Rachel's Jealousy") vividly illustrates the very "vexation" this law seeks to prevent.

**Why is the phrase "to vex [her]" so important to the meaning of this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "to vex [her]" (from the Hebrew _tsârar'_) is crucial because it reveals God's deep concern for the emotional and relational well-being of individuals within marriage. It indicates that the prohibition is not merely about a physical act or a legal technicality, but about preventing the profound jealousy, rivalry, and distress that would inevitably arise between two sisters sharing the same husband. This demonstrates God's wisdom in designing laws that promote peace and harmony, not just outward compliance, reflecting His desire for healthy and whole relationships.

**Does this ancient law about marrying sisters have any relevance for believers today, especially since polygyny is not commonly practiced?**

Answer: Absolutely. While the specific practice of sororal polygyny is rare, the underlying principles are timeless and highly relevant. This verse underscores God's concern for relational harmony, the sanctity of marriage, and the avoidance of situations that inherently lead to conflict and emotional distress. It reinforces the ideal of marriage as a unified, peaceful, and exclusive bond, as taught by Jesus in [Matthew 19:4-6](/matthew/19-4-6 "Matthew 19:4-6 - Jesus on Marriage"). Believers today can apply the spirit of this law by striving to cultivate relationships free from rivalry, jealousy, and unnecessary contention, prioritizing the well-being and peace of those with whom they are intimately connected. It also contributes to a broader understanding of God's call to sexual purity and the honor of the marital bed, as echoed in [Hebrews 13:4](/hebrews/13-4 "Hebrews 13:4 - Marriage Should Be Held in Honor").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Leviticus 18:18, like all the Law, serves to reveal God's holy character and His perfect standard for human relationships, exposing the inherent sinfulness and relational brokenness that plague humanity. While the specific prohibition against marrying sisters addresses a particular cultural context, its underlying principle—the prevention of relational strife and the safeguarding of marital sanctity—finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect expression in Jesus Christ. Christ did not come to abolish the Law but to fulfill it, both by perfectly obeying its righteous demands and by embodying its spirit of love and purity ([Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law")). His teaching on marriage, rooted in the creation account of one man and one woman becoming "one flesh," elevates the marital bond to its divine ideal, transcending the specific allowances or prohibitions of the Old Testament Law by pointing to a union of profound spiritual and relational unity ([Matthew 19:4-6](/matthew/19-4-6 "Matthew 19:4-6 - Jesus on Marriage")). Through His atoning work, Christ enables believers to live out the righteousness demanded by the Law, not by mere external adherence, but by the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to love one another genuinely and to pursue purity in all our relationships ([Romans 8:4](/romans/8-4 "Romans 8:4 - The Righteous Requirement of the Law Fulfilled in Us")). Thus, the "vexation" that Leviticus 18:18 seeks to prevent is overcome in Christ, who calls us to a life of self-sacrificial love, unity, and peace within the covenant of marriage, reflecting His own perfect love for His Church ([Ephesians 5:25-33](/ephesians/5-25-33 "Ephesians 5:25-33 - Christ and the Church, A Marriage Analogy")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Malachi 2:15

And did not he make one? Yet had he the residue of the spirit. And wherefore one? That he might seek a godly seed. Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously against the wife of his youth.

Genesis 29:28

And Jacob did so, and fulfilled her week: and he gave him Rachel his daughter to wife also.

Genesis 30:15

And she said unto her, [Is it] a small matter that thou hast taken my husband? and wouldest thou take away my son's mandrakes also? And Rachel said, Therefore he shall lie with thee to night for thy son's mandrakes.

Genesis 4:19

¶ And Lamech took unto him two wives: the name of the one [was] Adah, and the name of the other Zillah.

1 Samuel 1:6

And her adversary also provoked her sore, for to make her fret, because the LORD had shut up her womb.

1 Samuel 1:8

Then said Elkanah her husband to her, Hannah, why weepest thou? and why eatest thou not? and why is thy heart grieved? [am] not I better to thee than ten sons?

Exodus 26:3

The five curtains shall be coupled together one to another; and [other] five curtains [shall be] coupled one to another.