If a man also lie with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them.
If a man has sexual relations with another man as he would with a woman, both of them have committed a detestable act: they must be put to death; they are responsible for their own punishment.
This verse from ancient Israelite law declares male homosexual acts as forbidden and punishable by death under the old covenant legal system.
📚 Historical Context
This verse is part of the Holiness Code in Leviticus, written around 1400-1200 BCE as part of the civil and religious laws for ancient Israel. These laws were given to distinguish Israel from the surrounding pagan nations and establish them as God's set-apart people. The death penalty was prescribed for many offenses in this ancient theocratic society, including various sexual sins, idolatry, and other violations of the covenant.
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