Leviticus 20:16 Meaning and Explanation
“And if a woman approach unto any beast, and lie down thereto, thou shalt kill the woman, and the beast: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A woman who has sexual relations with an animal is executed, and the animal is also killed.
The Context of Leviticus 20:16
A woman who engages in sexual relations with an animal faces execution, as does the animal.
What Does Leviticus 20:16 Mean?
This law applies the same prohibition to women as to men, showing gender equality in covenant law regarding sexual boundaries. Both the woman and the beast are to be put to death, marking the transgression as violating natural and covenant order.
The parallel structure with the male case reinforces that sexual purity is a mutual obligation. The death of the animal as well signals that the violation extends beyond the individual into violation of created order.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leviticus 20:16
What does Leviticus 20:16 mean?
A woman who has sexual relations with an animal is executed, and the animal is also killed.
What is the context of Leviticus 20:16?
A woman who engages in sexual relations with an animal faces execution, as does the animal.