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Leviticus 20:16

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
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.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

If a woman has sexual relations with an animal, both the woman and the animal must be put to death. They are responsible for their own punishment.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

This verse establishes that sexual relations between humans and animals was punishable by death under Old Testament law, emphasizing the complete responsibility of those involved.

📚 Historical Context

This command was part of the holiness code given to ancient Israel as they were establishing their identity as God's chosen people. These laws were designed to distinguish Israel from the pagan nations around them, many of which practiced various forms of ritual sexual acts including bestiality as part of their religious ceremonies. The severity of the punishment reflected the seriousness with which God viewed violations of His design for human sexuality.

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