Definition: And if a man shall take his brother’s wife, it [is] an unclean thing: he hath uncovered his brother’s nakedness; they shall be childless.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 20:21. It’s a serious and important part of Jewish law about relationships. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse deals with betrayal and violating sacred vows. It says that if one man commits an act of infidelity – taking his brother’s wife – it is considered a grave offense, and has serious consequences. Let's look at the details: “And if a man shall take his brother’s wife…” This tells us what happened – a man committed a specific action – that is the problem. “…it [is] an unclean thing.” This is key. "Unclean" means it's wrong, immoral, and violates God’s laws. It’s not just a simple mistake; it’s something deeply problematic. “he hath uncovered his brother’s nakedness…” This refers to the brother's private shame – his vulnerability and exposure of his intimate relationship with someone else. It’s like revealing a secret, and that’s considered a significant breach of trust and respect. “they shall be childless.” This is the consequence. Because of the transgression, the couple will be legally unable to have children together. It's a symbolic representation of the loss of future offspring – a permanent separation. In essence, it’s about upholding the sanctity of marriage and family as ordained by God. It's a strong statement emphasizing that relationships are built on trust, respect, and fidelity. Important Context (Briefly): This verse is found in Leviticus, which was a law code for the Israelites during their time under Moses. It’s often interpreted as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God's laws – particularly regarding marriage. It highlights the consequences of breaking these laws. Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or example from the Bible? Discuss its significance within Jewish tradition?