Topical Encyclopedia Definition:Incest refers to sexual relations between individuals who are closely related by blood or marriage, violating the boundaries set by familial relationships. In the context of biblical teachings, incest is considered a grave sin and is explicitly forbidden by God’s law. Biblical Prohibitions: The Bible provides clear directives against incestuous relationships, primarily found in the Old Testament. The Book of Leviticus outlines specific prohibitions regarding sexual relations with close relatives. Leviticus 18:6 states, "None of you are to approach any close relative to have sexual relations. I am the LORD." This command establishes the foundational principle that such relationships are forbidden. Leviticus 18:7-18 further details the specific relatives with whom sexual relations are prohibited, including one's mother, father, sister, brother, daughter, son, aunt, uncle, and in-laws. These prohibitions are reiterated in Leviticus 20:11-21, which also prescribes severe penalties for those who engage in incestuous acts, emphasizing the seriousness of the offense in the eyes of God. Historical Context: In ancient Israel, maintaining the purity and sanctity of the family unit was of utmost importance. The prohibitions against incest served to protect the family structure, prevent moral corruption, and uphold the holiness of the community. The Israelites were called to be a people set apart, and adherence to these laws was a reflection of their covenant relationship with God. New Testament Perspective: While the New Testament does not explicitly reiterate the detailed prohibitions found in Leviticus, it upholds the moral principles regarding sexual purity and the sanctity of marriage. In 1 Corinthians 5:1 , the Apostle Paul addresses a case of incest within the Corinthian church, stating, "It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and of a kind that is intolerable even among pagans: A man has his father’s wife." Paul’s condemnation of this act underscores the continuity of the moral law concerning incest. Theological Implications: From a theological standpoint, incest is seen as a violation of God’s created order and an affront to the divine institution of the family. The family is intended to be a reflection of God’s love and order, and incest distorts this image. By engaging in incestuous relationships, individuals not only sin against their own bodies but also disrupt the harmony and sanctity of the family unit. Moral and Ethical Considerations: The biblical prohibitions against incest highlight the importance of maintaining moral boundaries within familial relationships. These laws serve as a safeguard against the exploitation and abuse of vulnerable family members. They also emphasize the need for respect, honor, and love within the family, aligning with the broader biblical call to love one’s neighbor as oneself (Mark 12:31). In summary, the Bible unequivocally defines and forbids incest, viewing it as a serious violation of God’s law and the natural order. The scriptural mandates against incest serve to protect the integrity of the family and uphold the holiness of God’s people. Nave's Topical Index Leviticus 18:6-18None of you shall approach to any that is near of kin to him, to uncover their nakedness: I am the LORD. Nave's Topical Index Leviticus 20:11,12,17,19-21 Deuteronomy 22:30 Deuteronomy 27:20-23 Ezekiel 22:11 1 Chronicles 5:1 Library And Now Let us Proceed to Explain the Reasons for which this ... Discussion of the Subject of Permission Summa Theologica Period iii. The Dissolution of the Imperial State Church and the ... Period iv. The Age of the Consolidation of the Church: 200 to 324 ... To Pammachius against John of Jerusalem. Memoir of John Bunyan Resources Why did Lot offer up his daughters to be gang raped? Why did God allow Lot's daughters to later have sex with their father? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Cain's wife? | GotQuestions.org Can a child who is conceived out of wedlock be saved? | GotQuestions.org Incest: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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