Leviticus 18:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Leviticus 18:15
15 Thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of thy daughter in law: she is thy son's wife; thou shalt not uncover her nakedness.
Chapter Context
Leviticus 18 is a legal and ritual chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of mercy, truth, redemption. Written during Israel's wilderness period (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The ritual systems addressed were designed to distinguish Israel from surrounding Canaanite practices.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Leviticus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Leviticus 18:15
15 Thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of thy daughter in law: she is thy son's wife; thou shalt not uncover her nakedness.
Analysis
Thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of thy daughter in law: she is thy son's wife; thou shalt not uncover her nakedness.
This verse falls within the section on Unlawful Sexual Relations. Prohibitions against various sexual sins, distinguishing Israel from Canaanite practices and protecting family sanctity.
Hebrews 9-10 explains how Christ's once-for-all sacrifice supersedes the repeated Levitical offerings, providing permanent cleansing from sin.
Historical Context
Prohibitions against various sexual sins, distinguishing Israel from Canaanite practices and protecting family sanctity. Chapters 17-27, often called the 'Holiness Code,' expand covenant obligations beyond ritual to encompass all of life—sexuality, economics, justice, and relationships. The repeated refrain 'I am the LORD' grounds these laws in God's character and covenant relationship with Israel. Israel received these laws while encamped at Sinai, before entering Canaan. The laws prepared them for life in the promised land, distinguishing them from Canaanite practices and establishing their identity as God's holy nation. The portable tabernacle, central to Levitical worship, accompanied them through wilderness wanderings and eventually found permanent form in Solomon's temple. The Israelite dietary laws in Leviticus 11 have no exact parallel in surrounding cultures, though some ancient cultures had food taboos, suggesting unique revelation rather than borrowed customs.
Reflection
- How does understanding the purpose behind God's laws help you obey Him from the heart rather than mere duty?
- How does this verse reveal God's character, and how should that revelation shape your relationship with Him?
- What does this verse teach about the seriousness of sin, the cost of redemption, or the beauty of holiness?
Cross-References
- Word: Leviticus 20:12, Ezekiel 22:11
- Parallel theme: Genesis 38:26