16 " 'Do not have sexual relations with your brother's wife; that would dishonor your brother.

Other Translations of Leviticus 18:16

King James Version

16 Thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of thy brother's wife: it is thy brother's nakedness.

English Standard Version

16 You shall not uncover the nakedness of your brother's wife; it is your brother's nakedness.

The Message

16 "Don't have sex with your brother's wife; that would violate your brother.

New King James Version

16 You shall not uncover the nakedness of your brother's wife; it is your brother's nakedness.

New Living Translation

16 "Do not have sexual relations with your brother's wife, for this would violate your brother.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Leviticus 18:16

Chapter Contents

Unlawful marriages and fleshly lusts.

Here is a law against all conformity to the corrupt usages of the heathen. Also laws against incest, against brutal lusts, and barbarous idolatries; and the enforcement of these laws from the ruin of the Canaanites. God here gives moral precepts. Close and constant adherence to God's ordinances is the most effectual preservative from gross sin. The grace of God only will secure us; that grace is to be expected only in the use of the means of grace. Nor does He ever leave any to their hearts' lusts, till they have left him and his services.