Leviticus 18: forbidden sex

[Tom Tighe]

Lev 18 starts by implying Egypt and Canaan were full of improper sexual practices. The NIV uses the term "sexual relations." The NKJV describes these practices as "uncovering the nakedness." Compare that to Gen 9:22 when Noah lay "uncovered" and Ham "saw his father naked". When Noah woke up he cursed Ham. I infer from this some sexual impropriety on Ham's part. The nations of Egypt and of Canaan are both from Ham's lineage. It is interesting to me that a legacy of sexual misconduct seems to be handed down through these cultures.

I also see conflict within Christianity today about sexual immorality, specifically homosexuality. There are those who see this as forbidden (Lev 18:22) and reaffirmed in the Council at Jerusalem (Acts 15:19, 29). Others use the example of Jesus associating with prostitutes and tax collectors to fly the rainbow flag seeking to be more "inclusive". This topic is often uncomfortable to discuss and it is an all or nothing proposition. There are Biblical examples used to support both sides. Do you think this is one of the many aspects of "the Law" that Jesus fulfilled or is this still forbidden or perhaps a form of self idolatry?

One other thing seems out of place among the sexual prohibitions: Giving your children to Molech (Lev 19:21). Molech (or Molek) worshipers lived in Canaan and would heat a large brass idol of Molech (human body with head of bull and arms outstretched) and place an infant into the glowing red hands of the idol, frying the baby to death. I'm not sure how this ritual is related to forbidden sex, but for me it raises the level of offense God takes in this entire group of prohibitions.

[Tom Tighe]

Also an aside, but in reference to a previous discussion, Polygamy is not forbidden in Leviticus