Leviticus 19:14

Commentary on Leviticus 19:14 (KJV)

Leviticus 19:14 is a profound command within the "Holiness Code" of Leviticus, emphasizing ethical conduct and compassion towards the vulnerable. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's concern for justice and integrity in human interactions.

Context

This verse is situated within Leviticus chapter 19, a pivotal chapter often referred to as the "Holiness Code" because it outlines practical ways for God's people to live out their covenant relationship with Him. Following the Ten Commandments, this chapter details specific laws concerning social justice, moral purity, and reverence for God. It covers a wide range of topics from harvest ethics to honesty in business and love for one's neighbor, all rooted in the declaration, "Ye shall be holy: for I the LORD your God am holy" (Leviticus 19:2). Verse 14 specifically addresses the protection of those who are most susceptible to exploitation or mistreatment.

Key Themes

• Protection of the Vulnerable: The command explicitly names the "deaf" and the "blind," representing individuals with physical disabilities who could easily be taken advantage of. Cursing the deaf or placing a stumblingblock before the blind highlights malicious intent and exploitation of weakness. This principle extends to all forms of injustice against the defenseless in society.
• Ethical Integrity and Intent: The prohibitions are not just about outward actions but also the hidden intentions. Cursing the deaf goes unpunished by human law because the deaf cannot hear the curse, and putting a stumblingblock before the blind is a secret act. This emphasizes that true righteousness involves acting with integrity even when no human witness is present.
• Reverence for God: The core motivation for obedience is "but shalt fear thy God." This "fear" (Hebrew: yare) is not terror but a deep reverence, awe, and respect that leads to obedient living. It signifies acknowledging God's omnipresence and His absolute authority as the ultimate judge. Because God sees all, one must act righteously even in secret. This command to "fear thy God" is a foundational principle throughout Scripture for moral conduct.
• Divine Authority: The concluding statement, "I am the LORD," reiterates God's sovereign authority and His right to command. It serves as a powerful declaration that these are not mere human suggestions but divine mandates from the Creator and Sustainer of life.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "stumblingblock" is mikshol (מִכְשׁוֹל), which literally means an obstacle, impediment, or cause of falling. While it often refers to a physical obstruction, in a broader sense, it can also represent anything that causes another to stumble morally or spiritually. The concept of causing another to stumble is also found in the New Testament (Romans 14:13).

Practical Application

Leviticus 19:14 remains profoundly relevant today. It calls believers to:

• Show Compassion and Respect: Treat all individuals, especially those with disabilities or disadvantages, with dignity, respect, and kindness. It condemns any form of exploitation, mockery, or mistreatment of the vulnerable.
• Act with Integrity: Live with honesty and moral uprightness, even in situations where no one else is watching. Our actions should be guided by a deep reverence for God, knowing that He sees and knows all.
• Promote Justice: Actively work against injustice and systems that disadvantage or harm vulnerable populations. This includes advocating for fair treatment and creating environments that are accessible and equitable for everyone.
• Love Your Neighbor: This verse beautifully exemplifies the broader command to "love thy neighbour as thyself" found later in Leviticus 19:18. True love means protecting the weak and ensuring their well-being.

In essence, Leviticus 19:14 teaches that genuine faith in God is demonstrated through ethical behavior and compassionate treatment of others, especially those least able to defend themselves.