Leviticus 19:20 Meaning and Explanation
“And whosoever lieth carnally with a woman, that is a bondmaid, betrothed to an husband, and not at all redeemed, nor freedom given her; she shall be scourged; they shall not be put to death, because she was not free.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Sexual relations with a betrothed bondmaid brings punishment but not death because she was not free.
The Context of Leviticus 19:20
Addresses violation of a betrothed enslaved woman.
What Does Leviticus 19:20 Mean?
A bondmaid (enslaved woman) had no legal rights. She was betrothed—promised to someone—yet still enslaved and not redeemed or freed. The law addresses a man's sexual violation of such a woman. The woman receives punishment alongside the man, reflecting her status as enslaved property in the legal framework.
The reason given—death is not prescribed because she was not free—reflects the law's underlying view that death penalty applies to certain offenses against free persons. This shows the tragic reality that enslaved people received less protection under the law, though the command itself acknowledges the violation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leviticus 19:20
What does Leviticus 19:20 mean?
Sexual relations with a betrothed bondmaid brings punishment but not death because she was not free.
What is the context of Leviticus 19:20?
Addresses violation of a betrothed enslaved woman.