Deuteronomy 27:22

Cursed is he who sleeps with his sister, the daughter of his father or the daughter of his mother.' And let all the people say, 'Amen!'

Study Bible

Cursed is he who sleeps with his sister, the daughter of his father or the daughter of his mother.
This phrase addresses a specific prohibition against incestuous relationships, which were strictly forbidden in the Mosaic Law. The curse here is a pronouncement of divine disfavor and judgment upon those who violate this command. In the ancient Near Eastern context, such relationships were considered taboo and were often associated with pagan practices. The law serves to maintain the sanctity and purity of the family unit, which is foundational to Israelite society. This command is reiterated in Leviticus 18:9 and 20:17, emphasizing its importance. The prohibition reflects God's desire for moral purity and the protection of familial relationships. The mention of both "the daughter of his father" and "the daughter of his mother" ensures that all potential incestuous relationships are covered, regardless of whether the siblings share both parents or just one.

And let all the people say, ‘Amen!’
The response of "Amen" by the people signifies their agreement and acceptance of the law. It is a communal affirmation of the covenant between God and Israel, indicating that the people collectively endorse the curse and the moral standards it upholds. This practice of communal affirmation is seen throughout Deuteronomy 27, where the Israelites are called to confirm their commitment to God's laws. The use of "Amen" is a solemn acknowledgment of the truth and seriousness of the command, and it binds the community to uphold these standards. This practice of public affirmation can be seen as a precursor to the New Testament's emphasis on the church as a community of believers who hold each other accountable to God's standards.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who delivered God's laws to the people. He is the central figure in the book of Deuteronomy, which is a series of speeches given to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are receiving the laws and commandments as they prepare to enter Canaan, the land promised to them by God.

3. Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim
The locations where the blessings and curses were to be pronounced. Mount Ebal was the mountain of curses, and Mount Gerizim was the mountain of blessings.

4. The Levites
The tribe of Israel responsible for the religious and priestly duties, including the pronouncement of blessings and curses.

5. Canaan
The Promised Land that the Israelites are about to enter, where they are to live according to God's laws.

Teaching Points

The Sanctity of Family Relationships
God's laws are designed to protect the integrity and sanctity of family relationships. Incestuous relationships violate the natural order and lead to familial and societal breakdown.

The Seriousness of Sin
The pronouncement of a curse underscores the seriousness with which God views sin. It serves as a warning to the community to uphold God's standards.

Community Responsibility
The communal response of "Amen" signifies collective agreement and responsibility. The community is called to uphold God's laws and hold each other accountable.

Holiness and Purity
God's people are called to live lives of holiness and purity, reflecting His character. This includes maintaining moral and ethical standards in all relationships.

The Role of the Law
The law serves as a guide to righteous living and reveals the need for God's grace. It points to the necessity of a Savior who fulfills the law on our behalf.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the commandment in Deuteronomy 27:22 reflect God's design for family relationships, and why is this important for us today?

2. In what ways can the community of believers today ensure accountability and uphold God's standards, as seen in the communal "Amen"?

3. How does the account of Amnon and Tamar in 2 Samuel 13 illustrate the consequences of violating God's commandments regarding sexual purity?

4. What steps can we take to maintain holiness and purity in our personal lives and within our communities?

5. How does understanding the seriousness of sin and the role of the law in Deuteronomy 27:22 help us appreciate the grace offered through Jesus Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 18:9
This verse also addresses the prohibition against incest, emphasizing the importance of sexual purity and the sanctity of family relationships.

2 Samuel 13
The account of Amnon and Tamar illustrates the tragic consequences of violating this commandment, showing the personal and communal damage caused by such sin.

1 Corinthians 5:1-2
Paul addresses a case of sexual immorality in the Corinthian church, highlighting the need for church discipline and purity within the Christian community.