Deuteronomy 27:22 Meaning and Explanation
“Cursed be he that lieth with his sister, the daughter of his father, or the daughter of his mother. And all the people shall say, Amen.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Incestuous relations with a sister are cursed as violations of family boundaries.
The Context of Deuteronomy 27:22
The eighth curse condemns incestuous relations with a sister.
What Does Deuteronomy 27:22 Mean?
Sisters share either father or mother with the person—whether biological sister or half-sister. Incest violates the foundational structure of the family and creates confusion about roles, protection, and authority within the household. This prohibition safeguards the family as the basic unit of covenant community.
The specific naming of sister relationships shows that covenant law addresses sexual boundaries comprehensively. Each 'Amen' reaffirms that family relationships involve not only caregiving and inheritance but also appropriate sexual boundaries. Respecting these boundaries protects the family's integrity and the individual's moral development within family structures.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 27:22
What does Deuteronomy 27:22 mean?
Incestuous relations with a sister are cursed as violations of family boundaries.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 27:22?
The eighth curse condemns incestuous relations with a sister.