Definition: And if a man take a wife and her mother, it [is] wickedness: they shall be burnt with fire, both he and they; that there be no wickedness among you.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Leviticus 20:14. It’s a pretty serious warning about relationships and behavior! Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: Basically, it says: “If someone marries someone who is related to your family – a mother or a father – it’s considered a big problem and will be punished severely.” Let's unpack that a little further: “And if a man take a wife and her mother…” This tells us this rule applies when there's a connection between a man and his relative (his mother or father). “…it is [is] wickedness:” This is the key part. “Wickedness” means something that goes against God’s rules and values. It’s not just any bad action; it’s an act that’s harmful, immoral, or rebellious against God's will. “…they shall be burnt with fire, both he and they:” This is the punishment. The Bible says that if this happens, the man and his wife must be burned in a fiery judgment. It’s a complete destruction – not just a minor punishment. "Both he and they" means the whole family is involved. What's the point of this verse? It’s teaching us about: Respect for Family: The Bible emphasizes that families are important, and relationships should be based on love, respect, and honor. God’s Law: This law is a way for God to protect His people and ensure that they live in accordance with his will. Moral Responsibility: It highlights the importance of moral behavior and avoiding actions that would harm others. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a strict prohibition against incest – marriage between close relatives. However, it’s more nuanced than just that. The Bible focuses on relationships being right and good , not just about blood relation. Do you want me to explain anything in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context of this verse within the larger story of God's relationship with Israel? Discuss how this verse relates to other laws or stories in the Bible?