Leviticus 18:6

KJV

¶ None of you shall approach to any that is near of kin to him, to uncover [their] nakedness: I [am] the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

None of you shall approach {H7126} to any {H376} that is near {H7607} of kin {H1320} to him, to uncover {H1540} their nakedness {H6172}: I am the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"'None of you is to approach anyone who is a close relative in order to have sexual relations; I am ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

None of you are to approach any close relative to have sexual relations. I am the LORD.

American Standard Version

None of you shall approach to any that are near of kin to him, to uncover their nakedness: I am Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Leviticus 18:6 serves as the foundational declaration in a chapter dedicated to outlining prohibited sexual relationships within ancient Israel. This verse establishes a divine decree against incestuous unions, underscoring God's call for His people to live in holiness and moral distinction from the corrupt practices prevalent in the surrounding pagan cultures of Egypt and Canaan. It sets the stage for specific prohibitions that safeguard the purity of the community, the sanctity of family bonds, and the integrity of the land, all under the sovereign authority of the LORD.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Leviticus 18:6 introduces a series of detailed laws defining forbidden sexual unions, which extend through [Leviticus 18:7-18](/leviticus/18-7-18 "Leviticus 18:7-18 - Specific Prohibited Relations"). This verse acts as a general principle, setting the tone for the specific degrees of kinship that are then enumerated. The entire chapter is framed by an introductory call to obey God's statutes and judgments, contrasting them with the "customs of the land of Egypt" and "the customs of the land of Canaan" ([Leviticus 18:1-5](/leviticus/18-1-5 "Leviticus 18:1-5 - Introduction to the Laws")). The concluding verses of the chapter ([Leviticus 18:24-30](/leviticus/18-24-30 "Leviticus 18:24-30 - Consequences of Disobedience")) reinforce the seriousness of these commands, warning that violation defiles both the people and the land, leading to expulsion. Thus, [Leviticus 18](/leviticus/18 "Leviticus 18 - Prohibited Sexual Relations") is a crucial component of God's broader instruction for Israel to be a holy nation, distinct from the surrounding pagan world, as emphasized throughout the book of [Leviticus](/leviticus/1 "Leviticus - The Book of Holiness").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Given to Moses at Mount Sinai, these statutes were foundational for establishing the moral and social fabric of the nascent Israelite nation. Israel had recently been delivered from Egypt, a land whose "customs" were characterized by widespread sexual immorality, and they were preparing to enter Canaan, a land whose inhabitants practiced similarly "detestable things" ([Leviticus 18:3](/leviticus/18-3 "Leviticus 18:3 - Warning Against Pagan Practices") and [Leviticus 18:27](/leviticus/18-27 "Leviticus 18:27 - Canaanite Abominations")). God's commands in [Leviticus 18](/leviticus/18 "Leviticus 18 - Prohibited Sexual Relations") were a stark contrast to these pagan practices, which often included cultic prostitution, child sacrifice, and various forms of sexual perversion. The laws in this chapter were not arbitrary but were essential for maintaining communal purity, preventing social chaos, protecting vulnerable individuals, and ensuring the health and longevity of the nation in the Promised Land. They represented God's standard of holiness, calling His people to live distinctly and righteously before Him.
* **Key Themes:** The central theme in [Leviticus 18](/leviticus/18 "Leviticus 18 - Prohibited Sexual Relations") and particularly in verse 6, is the imperative of **holiness** and **purity** for God's covenant people. This holiness is not merely ritualistic but extends to moral and ethical conduct, especially in the realm of sexuality. The prohibition of incest and other illicit sexual relationships underscores the theme of **distinction** – Israel was to be set apart from the defiling practices of surrounding nations. Furthermore, the chapter emphasizes the **sanctity of family** and the **integrity of the land**, both of which are defiled by such abominations, leading to severe consequences as seen in [Leviticus 18:25](/leviticus/18-25 "Leviticus 18:25 - Land Vomits Out Inhabitants"). The repeated declaration "I am the LORD" throughout the chapter reinforces the theme of **divine authority** and **sovereignty** as the ultimate basis for these moral laws.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Approach (Hebrew, _qârab'_):** From H7126, this verb signifies more than mere physical proximity; it denotes drawing near with the intent of intimacy or sexual union. In this context, it carries the force of a strong prohibition against any form of sexual engagement. It implies a boundary that must not be crossed, emphasizing the sacredness of kinship relationships and the severe nature of their violation.
* **Near of Kin (Hebrew, _shᵉʼêr bâsâr'_):** Derived from H7607 and H1320, this phrase, literally "flesh of his flesh," denotes a very close blood relative. This term underscores the intimate and sacred bonds within a family unit. The subsequent verses in [Leviticus 18:7-18](/leviticus/18-7-18 "Leviticus 18:7-18 - Specific Prohibited Relations") enumerate the specific degrees of kinship that fall under this prohibition, including parents, siblings, children, aunts, uncles, and in-laws. The use of "flesh of his flesh" highlights the natural, biological, and familial connection that is being protected from sexual violation.
* **Uncover Nakedness (Hebrew, _gâlâh ʻervâh'_):** From H1540 and H6172, this phrase is a common biblical euphemism for sexual intercourse, particularly when referring to illicit, forbidden, or shameful acts. "Nakedness" (_ʻervâh'_) itself can refer to nudity, shame, disgrace, or blemish. To "uncover nakedness" implies a profound violation of personal dignity, privacy, and the sacred boundaries of a relationship, especially when it occurs outside of God's ordained marital covenant or, as here, within prohibited kinship lines.
* **The LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** From H3068, this is the covenant name of God, "the self-Existent or Eternal." This declaration asserts God's absolute authority and sovereignty as the source of these laws. It reminds the people that these are not arbitrary human rules but divine imperatives from Yahweh, the covenant-keeping God of Israel, whose character is holy and unchanging.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"None of you shall approach to any that is near of kin to him":** This opening clause establishes a universal and absolute prohibition for all Israelites. The strong negative imperative conveys a divine command, indicating that any form of sexual intimacy or engagement with a close blood relative is strictly forbidden. The emphasis on "near of kin" highlights the sanctity of familial relationships and the severe disruption and defilement that incestuous acts would bring to the social and moral fabric of the community. This sets a clear boundary for the preservation of family purity and order.
* **"to uncover [their] nakedness":** This phrase specifies the nature of the prohibited "approach." As a euphemism for sexual intercourse, it clearly defines the forbidden act. The "uncovering" implies exposure, vulnerability, and a violation of the inherent modesty and dignity associated with the human body, particularly in the context of sacred family bonds. It underscores that the act itself is not merely a social transgression but a profound moral and spiritual defilement that brings shame.
* **"I [am] the LORD":** This concluding divine signature is a powerful declaration of God's absolute authority and sovereignty. It emphasizes that these are not mere human suggestions or cultural norms, but divine imperatives originating from Yahweh, the covenant-keeping God of Israel. This phrase, recurring throughout [Leviticus](/leviticus/1 "Leviticus - The Book of Holiness"), serves as the ultimate ground for the law's immutability and the severe consequences of its violation, reminding the people that their obedience is an act of worship and recognition of His supreme Lordship.

#### Literary Devices
Leviticus 18:6 employs several significant literary devices to convey its profound message. The most prominent is **Euphemism**, particularly in the phrase "to uncover nakedness." This indirect phrasing for sexual intercourse, especially illicit acts, serves to maintain a degree of decorum while clearly communicating the prohibition. It also subtly conveys the shame and violation inherent in such acts without explicit vulgarity, allowing the gravity of the offense to be understood without crude language. Another crucial device is the **Divine Formula** or **Divine Signature**, "I am the LORD." This recurring declaration throughout Leviticus functions as an authoritative stamp, grounding the command directly in God's unchanging character and absolute sovereignty. It transforms the law from a mere human regulation into a divine imperative, emphasizing the covenant relationship between God and Israel and the ultimate source of all moral law. This formula instills a sense of awe and solemnity, reinforcing the gravity of the command and the certainty of its enforcement.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Leviticus 18:6 is deeply rooted in the overarching biblical themes of holiness, purity, and the distinctiveness of God's people. This command reflects God's own holy and orderly character, demonstrating His design for human relationships, particularly within the family, to be pure, respectful, and life-giving. The prohibition of incest is not merely a social regulation but a theological statement about the sanctity of human life and the divine institution of family. By setting these boundaries, God protects the vulnerable, promotes social order, and calls His people to reflect His moral perfection in a world prone to corruption. Obedience to these laws was essential for Israel to maintain its covenant relationship with Yahweh and to avoid the defilement that led to the expulsion of the Canaanites from the land.

* [Leviticus 19:2](/leviticus/19-2 "Leviticus 19:2 - Be Holy, For I Am Holy")
* [Deuteronomy 27:20-23](/deuteronomy/27-20-23 "Deuteronomy 27:20-23 - Curses for Incestuous Relations")
* [1 Corinthians 5:1](/1_corinthians/5-1 "1 Corinthians 5:1 - Immorality in the Church")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Leviticus 18:6, though given to ancient Israel, carries timeless principles that are profoundly relevant for believers today. It underscores that God's moral law regarding sexuality is not arbitrary but is rooted in His perfect design for human flourishing and the sanctity of relationships. In a world increasingly characterized by moral relativism and the erosion of traditional family structures, this verse calls us to uphold God's unchanging standards for sexual purity and the sacredness of family bonds. It reminds us that our bodies and relationships are not merely for self-gratification but are meant to honor God and reflect His order. Applying this verse means recognizing the inherent wisdom in God's boundaries, protecting the vulnerable within our communities, and striving for a lifestyle of holiness that distinguishes us as His people, reflecting His character to a watching world. This requires both personal discipline and communal vigilance to uphold God's righteous standards in all areas of life, especially those pertaining to the sanctity of human relationships.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God's character as "the LORD" (Yahweh) deepen our appreciation for the seriousness and eternal validity of His commands regarding sexual purity?**
* **In what specific ways does contemporary society challenge or uphold the sanctity of family relationships and sexual boundaries as outlined in Leviticus 18:6?**
* **What practical steps can individuals and communities take to promote God's design for sexuality and protect the vulnerable, thereby reflecting the principles found in this verse in our modern context?**

### FAQ
**Why does God give such specific and detailed laws about sexual relationships in Leviticus 18?**

Answer: These laws, including [Leviticus 18:6](/leviticus/18-6 "Leviticus 18:6 - Prohibited Kinship Relations"), were given to ancient Israel to establish a clear moral code that distinguished them from the defiling practices of the surrounding nations, particularly Egypt and Canaan. As God's covenant people, Israel was called to be holy and set apart, reflecting His character. These detailed prohibitions were essential for maintaining the purity and integrity of the community, safeguarding family structures, and preventing the spiritual and social decay that characterized pagan societies, as warned in [Leviticus 18:24-30](/leviticus/18-24-30 "Leviticus 18:24-30 - Consequences of Disobedience").

**What does "uncover nakedness" specifically mean in this context?**

Answer: In biblical Hebrew, "uncover nakedness" (גִּלּוּי עֶרְוָה, _gilui ervah_) is a well-established euphemism for sexual intercourse. While it literally refers to exposing one's private parts, in the context of [Leviticus 18](/leviticus/18 "Leviticus 18 - Prohibited Sexual Relations"), it specifically denotes illicit or forbidden sexual acts, particularly those involving close relatives. This phrase emphasizes the shame, vulnerability, and violation of sacred boundaries inherent in such prohibited unions, as further detailed in verses like [Leviticus 18:7](/leviticus/18-7 "Leviticus 18:7 - Prohibited Relations with Mother").

**How is Leviticus 18:6 relevant to Christians today, given its Old Testament context?**

Answer: While the specific legal framework is part of the Old Covenant, the underlying moral principles of [Leviticus 18:6](/leviticus/18-6 "Leviticus 18:6 - Prohibited Kinship Relations") remain eternally valid. God's prohibition against incest and His call for sexual purity are rooted in His unchanging holy character and His design for human flourishing. The New Testament upholds the sanctity of marriage and condemns sexual immorality, including incest (e.g., [1 Corinthians 5:1](/1_corinthians/5-1 "1 Corinthians 5:1 - Immorality in the Church")). This verse reminds believers that God's standards for sexual conduct are not arbitrary but are for our good, promoting healthy families, protecting the vulnerable, and calling us to live distinctively as those set apart for Christ, as exhorted in [1 Peter 1:15-16](/1_peter/1-15-16 "1 Peter 1:15-16 - Be Holy in All You Do").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Leviticus 18:6, with its stern prohibition against incest and its emphasis on holiness, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deeper meaning in Jesus Christ. While the Old Covenant law defined external boundaries for a holy nation, Christ embodies and perfectly fulfills the law's demands for inner purity and righteousness. He teaches that sin originates not just in the act, but in the heart (e.g., [Matthew 5:27-28](/matthew/5-27-28 "Matthew 5:27-28 - Lust of the Heart")), elevating the standard of holiness beyond mere legal compliance. Furthermore, Christ, as the ultimate "near of kin" who took on human flesh to redeem humanity, establishes a new covenant where believers are brought into a pure and holy relationship with God as His adopted children ([Romans 8:15](/romans/8-15 "Romans 8:15 - Spirit of Adoption")). The Church, as the Bride of Christ, is called to be presented to Him "without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless" ([Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25-27 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ's Love for the Church")). The Spirit of Christ indwelling believers empowers them to live out the spirit of these laws, not through legalistic striving, but through transformed hearts that desire to honor God with their bodies, recognizing them as temples of the Holy Spirit ([1 Corinthians 6:19-20](/1_corinthians/6-19-20 "1 Corinthians 6:19-20 - Your Body is a Temple")). Thus, the call to sexual purity and the sanctity of relationships in Leviticus 18:6 is ultimately realized in Christ, who enables us to live a life of true holiness, reflecting God's perfect love and order.

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

Leviticus 20:17

And if a man shall take his sister, his father's daughter, or his mother's daughter, and see her nakedness, and she see his nakedness; it [is] a wicked thing; and they shall be cut off in the sight of their people: he hath uncovered his sister's nakedness; he shall bear his iniquity.

Leviticus 20:21

And if a man shall take his brother's wife, it [is] an unclean thing: he hath uncovered his brother's nakedness; they shall be childless.

Leviticus 18:7

The nakedness of thy father, or the nakedness of thy mother, shalt thou not uncover: she [is] thy mother; thou shalt not uncover her nakedness.

Leviticus 18:19

¶ Also thou shalt not approach unto a woman to uncover her nakedness, as long as she is put apart for her uncleanness.

Leviticus 20:11

And the man that lieth with his father's wife hath uncovered his father's nakedness: both of them shall surely be put to death; their blood [shall be] upon them.

Leviticus 20:12

And if a man lie with his daughter in law, both of them shall surely be put to death: they have wrought confusion; their blood [shall be] upon them.