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Leviticus 20:12 - Severe punishment for forbidden relations?

Leviticus 20:12 - ויקרא 20:12

Hebrew Text

וְאִישׁ אֲשֶׁר יִשְׁכַּב אֶת־כַּלָּתוֹ מוֹת יוּמְתוּ שְׁנֵיהֶם תֶּבֶל עָשׂוּ דְּמֵיהֶם בָּם׃

English Translation

And if a man lie with his daughter in law, both of them shall surely be put to death: they have wrought unnatural sin; their blood shall be upon them.

Transliteration

Ve'ish asher yishkav et-kalato mot yumatu shenehem tevel asu demeihem bam.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְאִ֗ישׁ אֲשֶׁ֤ר יִשְׁכַּב֙ אֶת־כַּלָּת֔וֹ מ֥וֹת יוּמְת֖וּ שְׁנֵיהֶ֑ם תֶּ֥בֶל עָשׂ֖וּ דְּמֵיהֶ֥ם בָּֽם׃
וְאִ֗ישׁ אֲשֶׁ֤ר יִשְׁכַּב֙ אֶת־כַּלָּת֔וֹ מ֥וֹת יוּמְת֖וּ שְׁנֵיהֶ֑ם תֶּ֥בֶל עָשׂ֖וּ דְּמֵיהֶ֥ם בָּֽם׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Verse Analysis

The verse (Vayikra 20:12) prohibits a man from engaging in relations with his daughter-in-law and prescribes the death penalty for both parties involved. The term "תֶּבֶל" (tevel) is used to describe their sin, which Rashi explains as "a perversion and confusion of the natural order" (Rashi on Vayikra 20:12). This prohibition is part of the broader category of forbidden relationships (איסורי עריות) outlined in the Torah.

Legal Consequences

The Rambam (Hilchot Issurei Bi'ah 1:1) categorizes this prohibition as one of the most severe sexual transgressions, punishable by כרת (spiritual excision) if done intentionally and death by the court if there were witnesses and proper warning (התראה). The phrase "דְּמֵיהֶם בָּם" (their blood shall be upon them) emphasizes that they bear full responsibility for their actions (Sifra, Kedoshim 10:3).

Moral and Theological Implications

  • Disruption of Family Structure: The Talmud (Sanhedrin 54a) notes that such a relationship undermines the sanctity of the family unit, as it introduces jealousy and chaos between father and son.
  • Violation of Kedushah: The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 23:9) connects this sin to the broader theme of holiness (קדושה), as the Torah commands, "קדושים תהיו" (You shall be holy) (Vayikra 19:2).
  • Contrast with Proper Conduct: The Kli Yakar highlights that this prohibition stands in opposition to the ideal relationship between father-in-law and daughter-in-law, which should be one of respect and moral boundaries.

Comparison with Other Prohibitions

The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 209) explains that this prohibition is distinct from other forbidden relationships because it involves a betrayal of trust within the family structure. Unlike relations with a stranger, this sin corrupts the foundational bonds of the household.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Sanhedrin 54a
The verse is discussed in the context of the prohibition against incestuous relationships, specifically addressing the severity of the sin and its punishment.
📖 Yevamot 21a
The verse is referenced in a discussion about forbidden relationships and the legal consequences for those who violate these prohibitions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Leviticus 20:12 mean?
A: Leviticus 20:12 prohibits a man from having intimate relations with his daughter-in-law, stating that both parties are subject to the death penalty if they commit this act. The Torah calls this act 'unnatural sin' (תֶּבֶל), meaning it goes against the natural order and moral boundaries set by Hashem.
Q: Why is this prohibition important in Judaism?
A: This prohibition is important because it upholds the sanctity of family relationships and moral boundaries. The Torah emphasizes maintaining purity within the family structure, and this law prevents corruption and improper conduct between relatives. Rashi explains that such acts defile the moral fabric of society.
Q: What can we learn from Leviticus 20:12?
A: We learn that the Torah sets strict moral guidelines to preserve holiness in human relationships. This verse teaches the severity of violating family boundaries and the consequences of immoral behavior. The Rambam (Maimonides) discusses in Mishneh Torah that such laws help maintain a just and ethical society.
Q: Does this law still apply today?
A: While the death penalty is not administered in Jewish courts today (due to the absence of the Sanhedrin), the prohibition remains fully in effect. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 52b) discusses the severity of this sin, and Jewish law (Halacha) continues to forbid such relationships as a grave transgression.
Q: What is the meaning of 'their blood shall be upon them'?
A: The phrase 'their blood shall be upon them' means they bear full responsibility for their actions and the resulting punishment. The Midrash (Torat Kohanim) explains that they have brought their own fate upon themselves by committing this forbidden act, showing that moral accountability is central to Torah law.