50+ Bible Verses About Incest (And What They Mean)
Incest is a topic that appears in various parts of the Bible, often with significant moral and ethical implications. This article compiles 50 Bible verses that address incest, providing a comprehensive look at how this issue is treated in the scriptures.
Whether you're studying the Bible for personal reasons or academic purposes, these verses offer insight into the complexities and consequences of incest as depicted in biblical texts. Each verse is presented to help you understand the context and the message conveyed.
What Does the Bible Say About Incest
The Bible has a lot to say about incest, and it’s clear that it’s a serious issue. The verses we’ve looked at show that incest is not just a personal matter but one that affects families and communities deeply. These teachings are meant to guide us towards healthier, more respectful relationships.
One key theme is the importance of respecting family boundaries. Verses like Leviticus 18:6-18 and Leviticus 20:11-12 make it clear that certain relationships are off-limits. These rules are there to protect the sanctity of family bonds and ensure that trust and respect are maintained within the home.
Another theme is the consequences of incest. Stories like that of Tamar and Amnon in 2 Samuel 13:1-22 show the lasting damage that such actions can cause. These verses remind us that our choices have real, often painful, impacts on others, urging us to think carefully about our actions.
The Bible also speaks about moral laws and how they guide us. Verses like Exodus 20:14 and Romans 13:9 emphasize the importance of living with integrity and honoring commitments. These teachings encourage us to uphold values that foster trust and love in our relationships.
Finally, God’s view on incest is clear: it’s something He does not condone. Verses like Psalm 5:4 and 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 remind us that aligning with God’s values brings peace and purpose. By following these teachings, we can build stronger, more loving communities.
50 Bible Verses About Incest
10 Bible Verses on Incest in the Old Testament
1) Genesis 19:30-38
Then Lot went up out of Zoar and dwelt in the mountains, and his two daughters were with him; for he was afraid to dwell in Zoar. And he and his two daughters dwelt in a cave. Now the firstborn said to the younger, “Our father is old, and there is no man on the earth to come in to us as is the custom of all the earth. Come, let us make our father drink wine, and we will lie with him, that we may preserve the lineage of our father.” So they made their father drink wine that night. And the firstborn went in and lay with her father, and he did not know when she lay down or when she arose. It happened on the next day that the firstborn said to the younger, “Indeed I lay with my father last night; let us make him drink wine tonight also, and you go in and lie with him, that we may preserve the lineage of our father.” Then they made their father drink wine that night also. And the younger arose and lay with him, and he did not know when she lay down or when she arose. Thus both the daughters of Lot were with child by their father. The firstborn bore a son and called his name Moab; he is the father of the Moabites to this day. And the younger, she also bore a son and called his name Ben-Ammi; he is the father of the people of Ammon to this day.
Meaning: This passage highlights the lengths to which people might go when driven by fear and desperation. It’s a stark reminder of how dire circumstances can lead to morally complex decisions, revealing the human struggle between survival and ethical boundaries.
2) Genesis 20:12
But indeed she is truly my sister. She is the daughter of my father, but not the daughter of my mother; and she became my wife.
Meaning: While the world often teaches us to draw clear lines between right and wrong, this verse reveals the complexities of human relationships and decisions. It reminds us that life is full of gray areas, and sometimes, our choices are influenced by circumstances beyond our control.
3) Genesis 26:7
And the men of the place asked about his wife. And he said, “She is my sister”; for he was afraid to say, “She is my wife,” because he thought, “lest the men of the place kill me for Rebekah, because she is beautiful to behold.”
Meaning: Sometimes, fear can lead us to make choices that challenge our moral compass. This verse invites us to reflect on the lengths we might go to protect ourselves and those we love, even if it means bending the truth.
4) Leviticus 18:6-18
None of you shall approach anyone who is near of kin to him, to uncover his nakedness: I am the Lord. The nakedness of your father or the nakedness of your mother you shall not uncover. She is your mother; you shall not uncover her nakedness. The nakedness of your father’s wife you shall not uncover; it is your father’s nakedness. The nakedness of your sister, the daughter of your father, or the daughter of your mother, whether born at home or elsewhere, their nakedness you shall not uncover. The nakedness of your son’s daughter or your daughter’s daughter, their nakedness you shall not uncover; for theirs is your own nakedness. The nakedness of your father’s wife’s daughter, begotten by your father—she is your sister—you shall not uncover her nakedness. You shall not uncover the nakedness of your father’s sister; she is near of kin to your father. You shall not uncover the nakedness of your mother’s sister, for she is near of kin to your mother. You shall not uncover the nakedness of your father’s brother. You shall not approach his wife; she is your aunt. You shall not uncover the nakedness of your daughter-in-law—she is your son’s wife—you shall not uncover her nakedness. You shall not uncover the nakedness of your brother’s wife; it is your brother’s nakedness. You shall not uncover the nakedness of a woman and her daughter, nor shall you take her son’s daughter or her daughter’s daughter, to uncover her nakedness. They are near of kin to her. It is wickedness. Nor shall you take a woman as a rival to her sister, to uncover her nakedness while the other is alive.
Meaning: Think of this as a protective boundary, like a fence around a cherished garden. It’s there to preserve the sanctity and respect within family relationships, ensuring they remain a safe haven.
5) Leviticus 20:11
The man who lies with his father’s wife has uncovered his father’s nakedness; both of them shall surely be put to death. Their blood shall be upon them.
Meaning: Respecting family boundaries is crucial. When we honor these limits, we contribute to a healthier and more respectful home environment.
6) Leviticus 20:12
If a man lies with his daughter-in-law, both of them shall surely be put to death. They have committed perversion; their blood shall be upon them.
Meaning: What does it mean to truly respect family boundaries? Sometimes, the harshest rules are there to protect the most vulnerable, ensuring that love and trust within a family remain unbroken.
7) Leviticus 20:14
If a man marries a woman and her mother, it is wickedness. They shall be burned with fire, both he and they, that there may be no wickedness among you.
Meaning: Consider the warmth of a family hearth; it thrives on respect and boundaries. When we honor these limits, we nurture a space where love and trust can flourish.
8) Leviticus 20:17
If a man takes his sister, his father’s daughter or his mother’s daughter, and sees her nakedness and she sees his nakedness, it is a wicked thing. And they shall be cut off in the sight of their people. He has uncovered his sister’s nakedness. He shall bear his guilt.
Meaning: This verse might stir a sense of conviction, reminding us of the importance of respecting family boundaries. It's like the feeling you get when you realize the impact of your actions on those closest to you, urging you to uphold trust and integrity in your relationships.
9) Leviticus 20:19
For if a man lies with his aunt, he has uncovered his uncle’s nakedness. They shall bear their sin; they shall die childless.
Meaning: Respecting family boundaries is crucial for maintaining trust and harmony. This ancient wisdom reminds us that our actions have lasting consequences, urging us to uphold integrity in our relationships.
10) Deuteronomy 27:20
Cursed is the one who lies with his father’s wife, because he has uncovered his father’s bed. And all the people shall say, ‘Amen!’
Meaning: We often rush through life, making choices without considering their deeper impact. This verse invites us to pause and reflect on the importance of respecting boundaries and the sanctity of relationships.
10 Bible Verses on Consequences of Incest
11) 2 Samuel 13:1-22
After this Absalom the son of David had a lovely sister, whose name was Tamar; and Amnon the son of David loved her. Amnon was so distressed over his sister Tamar that he became sick; for she was a virgin. And it was improper for Amnon to do anything to her. But Amnon had a friend whose name was Jonadab the son of Shimeah, David’s brother. Now Jonadab was a very crafty man. And he said to him, “Why are you, the king’s son, becoming thinner day after day? Will you not tell me?” Amnon said to him, “I love Tamar, my brother Absalom’s sister.” So Jonadab said to him, “Lie down on your bed and pretend to be ill. And when your father comes to see you, say to him, ‘Please let my sister Tamar come and give me food, and prepare the food in my sight, that I may see it and eat it from her hand.’” Then Amnon lay down and pretended to be ill; and when the king came to see him, Amnon said to the king, “Please let Tamar my sister come and make a couple of cakes for me in my sight, that I may eat from her hand.” And David sent home to Tamar, saying, “Now go to your brother Amnon’s house, and prepare food for him.” So Tamar went to her brother Amnon’s house; and he was lying down. Then she took flour and kneaded it, made cakes in his sight, and baked the cakes. And she took the pan and placed them out before him, but he refused to eat. Then Amnon said, “Have everyone go out from me.” And they all went out from him. Then Amnon said to Tamar, “Bring the food into the bedroom, that I may eat from your hand.” And Tamar took the cakes which she had made, and brought them to Amnon her brother in the bedroom. Now when she had brought them to him to eat, he took hold of her and said to her, “Come, lie with me, my sister.” But she answered him, “No, my brother, do not force me, for no such thing should be done in Israel. Do not do this disgraceful thing! And I, where could I take my shame? And as for you, you would be like one of the fools in Israel. Now therefore, please speak to the king; for he will not withhold me from you.” However, he would not heed her voice; and being stronger than she, he forced her and lay with her. Then Amnon hated her exceedingly, so that the hatred with which he hated her was greater than the love with which he had loved her. And Amnon said to her, “Arise, be gone!” So she said to him, “No, indeed! This evil of sending me away is worse than the other that you did to me.” But he would not listen to her. Then he called his servant who attended him, and said, “Here! Put this woman out, away from me, and bolt the door behind her.” Now she had on a robe of many colors, for the king’s virgin daughters wore such apparel. And his servant put her out and bolted the door behind her. Then Tamar put ashes on her head, and tore her robe of many colors that was on her, and laid her hand on her head and went away crying bitterly. And Absalom her brother said to her, “Has Amnon your brother been with you? But now hold your peace, my sister. He is your brother; do not take this thing to heart.” So Tamar remained desolate in her brother Absalom’s house. But when King David heard of all these things, he was very angry. And Absalom spoke to his brother Amnon neither good nor bad. For Absalom hated Amnon, because he had forced his sister Tamar.
Meaning: Sometimes, the actions of others can leave deep scars. This verse serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of respecting boundaries and the lasting impact of our choices on those we love.
12) Genesis 49:4
Unstable as water, you shall not excel, because you went up to your father’s bed; then you defiled it—he went up to my couch.
Meaning: Sometimes, our actions can ripple through our lives, affecting our potential and relationships. This verse reminds us of the importance of stability and integrity in our choices.
13) Ezekiel 22:11
One commits abomination with his neighbor’s wife; another lewdly defiles his daughter-in-law; and another in you violates his sister, his father’s daughter.
Meaning: This verse underscores the gravity of actions that break trust and violate sacred relationships, urging us to consider the profound impact of our choices on the fabric of our community.
14) Deuteronomy 27:22
Cursed is the one who lies with his sister, the daughter of his father or the daughter of his mother. And all the people shall say, ‘Amen!’
Meaning: Embrace the importance of respecting family boundaries in your daily life. Upholding these limits fosters trust and harmony, ensuring that relationships remain strong and healthy.
15) Deuteronomy 27:23
Cursed is the one who lies with his mother-in-law. And all the people shall say, ‘Amen!’
Meaning: In moments of uncertainty, this verse gently reminds us of the importance of maintaining respect and integrity within our relationships, offering a sense of reassurance and moral clarity.
16) Leviticus 20:20
If a man lies with his uncle’s wife, he has uncovered his uncle’s nakedness. They shall bear their sin; they shall die childless.
Meaning: The verse speaks to the sanctity of family bonds, urging us to honor and respect these relationships deeply. It's a reminder that our actions have profound consequences, echoing through generations.
17) Leviticus 20:21
If a man takes his brother’s wife, it is an unclean thing. He has uncovered his brother’s nakedness. They shall be childless.
Meaning: In moments of doubt, it's easy to forget the importance of respecting boundaries. This verse reminds us that honoring these limits is crucial for maintaining trust and harmony in our relationships.
18) 1 Corinthians 5:1
It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and such sexual immorality as is not even named among the Gentiles—that a man has his father’s wife!
Meaning: In the tapestry of life, respecting boundaries is essential for nurturing trust and harmony. Let this verse remind you of the importance of upholding integrity in your relationships, fostering a community built on mutual respect.
19) Ezekiel 22:10
In you men uncover their fathers’ nakedness; in you they violate women who are set apart during their impurity.
Meaning: Take a moment to reflect on the importance of respecting boundaries and honoring sacred relationships. This verse reminds us that our actions have profound impacts, urging us to live with integrity and respect for others.
20) Revelation 18:3
For all the nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth have become rich through the abundance of her luxury.
Meaning: This verse stirs a sense of urgency, highlighting the consequences of indulgence and moral compromise. It calls us to reflect on the true cost of our choices and the impact they have on our lives and communities.
10 Bible Verses on Incest and Moral Law
21) Exodus 20:14
You shall not commit adultery.
Meaning: In moments of temptation, remember the strength that comes from staying true to your values. Holding onto this truth can guide you through challenging times, fostering trust and integrity in your relationships.
22) Deuteronomy 5:18
You shall not commit adultery.
Meaning: In the hustle and bustle of life, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters. Let this be a gentle reminder to stay true to your commitments and cherish the trust you've built with others.
23) Leviticus 18:7
The nakedness of your father or the nakedness of your mother you shall not uncover. She is your mother; you shall not uncover her nakedness.
Meaning: Sometimes, the most profound respect we can show is through restraint. This verse reminds us that honoring boundaries is a vital part of our spiritual growth and the trust we build with others.
24) Leviticus 18:8
The nakedness of your father’s wife you shall not uncover; it is your father’s nakedness.
Meaning: God's wisdom is timeless, guiding us to honor and respect the sacred bonds within our families. This truth encourages us to uphold integrity and trust in our relationships, no matter the era.
25) Leviticus 18:9
The nakedness of your sister, the daughter of your father, or the daughter of your mother, whether born at home or elsewhere, their nakedness you shall not uncover.
Meaning: Reflect on the importance of honoring and respecting the boundaries within your family. How can you ensure that your actions contribute to a loving and respectful home environment?
26) Leviticus 18:10
The nakedness of your son’s daughter or your daughter’s daughter, their nakedness you shall not uncover; for theirs is your own nakedness.
Meaning: In the heart of family, respecting boundaries is key to nurturing trust and love. God's guidance here is a steadfast reminder of the importance of honoring these sacred relationships.
27) Romans 13:9
For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not bear false witness,” “You shall not covet,” and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
Meaning: In a world where rules often feel restrictive, this verse flips the script, showing that love is the true essence of all commandments. It's a powerful reminder that our actions should be guided by compassion and empathy, transforming how we relate to God and each other.
28) Matthew 5:27-28
You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
Meaning: In a world filled with distractions and temptations, staying true to your values can feel like swimming against the current. Yet, it's in these moments of inner struggle that we find the strength to uphold integrity and honor in our relationships.
29) 1 Timothy 1:9-10
Knowing this: that the law is not made for a righteous person, but for the lawless and insubordinate, for the ungodly and for sinners, for the unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, for fornicators, for sodomites, for kidnappers, for liars, for perjurers, and if there is any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine.
Meaning: Embrace the idea that the law serves as a guide for those who stray, helping to bring them back to a path of integrity and righteousness. How can you let this truth shape your actions and decisions today?
30) Galatians 5:19
Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness
Meaning: Sometimes, life’s challenges can cloud our judgment, but remember that you have the strength to rise above and choose a path of integrity and love.
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31) Genesis 38:15-18
When Judah saw her, he thought she was a harlot, because she had covered her face. Then he turned to her by the way, and said, “Please let me come in to you”; for he did not know that she was his daughter-in-law. So she said, “What will you give me, that you may come in to me?” And he said, “I will send a young goat from the flock.” So she said, “Will you give me a pledge till you send it?” Then he said, “What pledge shall I give you?” So she said, “Your signet and cord, and your staff that is in your hand.” Then he gave them to her, and went in to her, and she conceived by him.
Meaning: The word "pledge" stands out, symbolizing trust and commitment. It's like when you lend something valuable to a friend, knowing it will be returned, highlighting the weight of promises in our lives.
32) 2 Chronicles 21:11
Moreover he made high places in the mountains of Judah, and caused the inhabitants of Jerusalem to commit harlotry and led Judah astray.
Meaning: In the midst of life's chaos, remember that God's love and grace are unwavering. Even when we stray, His faithfulness remains a constant source of peace and assurance.
33) Ezekiel 23:37
For they have committed adultery, and blood is on their hands. They have committed adultery with their idols, and even sacrificed their sons whom they bore to Me, passing them through the fire, to devour them.
Meaning: There's hope in realizing that true fulfillment comes from aligning with God's values, not the world's fleeting promises. This verse challenges us to see the emptiness of idolatry and the profound peace that comes from genuine faith and humility.
34) Revelation 17:1-2
Then one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls came and talked with me, saying to me, “Come, I will show you the judgment of the great harlot who sits on many waters, with whom the kings of the earth committed fornication, and the inhabitants of the earth were made drunk with the wine of her fornication.”
Meaning: Hold onto the idea that even in the midst of chaos and confusion, there is a higher purpose and justice at work. This verse invites you to reflect on the deeper truths guiding your life today.
35) 2 Kings 23:7
Then he tore down the ritual booths of the perverted persons that were in the house of the Lord, where the women wove hangings for the wooden image.
Meaning: The certainty of this verse's promise lies in its vivid imagery and poetic depth. It beautifully captures the transformative power of faith, showing how true devotion can cleanse and renew even the most sacred spaces.
36) Judges 19:24
Look, here is my virgin daughter and the man’s concubine; let me bring them out now. Humble them, and do with them as you please; but to this man do not do such a vile thing!
Meaning: In every season of life, the call to protect and honor others remains steadfast. "Guard the dignity of those around you" is a timeless truth that resonates deeply, urging us to uphold respect and compassion in all circumstances.
37) 1 Kings 15:12
And he banished the perverted persons from the land, and removed all the idols that his fathers had made.
Meaning: In moments of reflection, remember the importance of purging negativity and distractions from your life. Embrace the call to create a space filled with integrity and purpose.
38) Hosea 4:13-14
They offer sacrifices on the mountaintops, and burn incense on the hills, under oaks, poplars, and terebinths, because their shade is good. Therefore your daughters commit harlotry, and your brides commit adultery. I will not punish your daughters when they commit harlotry, nor your brides when they commit adultery; for the men themselves go apart with harlots, and offer sacrifices with a ritual harlot. Therefore people who do not understand will be trampled.
Meaning: In the midst of our mistakes and misunderstandings, there's a profound sense of God's patience and mercy, offering us a chance to return to His embrace and find true understanding.
39) Proverbs 30:20
This is the way of an adulterous woman: She eats and wipes her mouth, and says, “I have done no wickedness.”
Meaning: God's wisdom reveals the importance of self-awareness and integrity. It's a gentle reminder that true faith calls us to live honestly and align our actions with His teachings.
40) Amos 2:7
They pant after the dust of the earth which is on the head of the poor, and pervert the way of the humble; a man and his father go in to the same girl, to defile My holy name.
Meaning: In times of uncertainty, this verse serves as a reminder to uphold justice and integrity. It encourages us to look beyond our immediate struggles and strive for a life that honors and respects others.
10 Bible Verses on God's View on Incest
41) Psalm 5:4
For You are not a God who takes pleasure in wickedness, nor shall evil dwell with You.
Meaning: The verse reminds us that aligning with God's values can bring a profound sense of peace and purpose, transforming our lives and guiding us through any challenge with unwavering hope.
42) Proverbs 6:32
Whoever commits adultery with a woman lacks understanding; he who does so destroys his own soul.
Meaning: In the tapestry of life, wisdom often comes from recognizing the long-term impact of our choices. This verse gently reminds us that true fulfillment and peace come from living with integrity and honoring our commitments.
43) 1 Corinthians 6:18-20
Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.
Meaning: Embrace the strength that comes from knowing you are valued and cherished by God. Trust in His guidance to lead you towards a life of integrity and purpose.
44) Hebrews 13:4
Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge.
Meaning: Embrace the beauty of commitment and the sanctity of your relationships. Let this truth guide you to cherish and honor the bonds you share with others, fostering trust and love.
45) 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5
For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality; that each of you should know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor, not in passion of lust, like the Gentiles who do not know God.
Meaning: The timeless truth here is about living with integrity and respect. Embrace this call to honor yourself and others, letting it guide your actions and relationships.
46) Colossians 3:5
Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.
Meaning: Faith brings a profound sense of security, knowing that God's guidance helps us navigate life's challenges. Trust in His steadfast presence to lead you towards a life of integrity and peace.
47) Romans 1:24-27
Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen. For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.
Meaning: God's presence is a constant source of guidance and strength. This verse encourages us to reflect on our choices and align our actions with His truth, fostering a life of integrity and purpose.
48) 1 Peter 1:15-16
But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, "Be holy, for I am holy."
Meaning: Embrace the joy and beauty of striving to live a life that reflects the goodness and purity of your faith. It's a gentle reminder that in every moment, you have the opportunity to shine with integrity and grace.
49) Ephesians 5:3
But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints.
Meaning: Embrace the challenge to live with integrity and purity in your daily life. Let your actions reflect the values you hold dear, showing the world what it means to truly live out your faith.
50) Isaiah 5:20
Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!
Meaning: Ever feel like the world is upside down? This verse reminds us to stay true to what we know is right, even when everything around us seems confusing.
How to Apply These Bible Verses About Incest
Applying the Bible's teachings on incest to daily life is crucial for fostering healthy, respectful relationships. These verses offer guidance on maintaining family boundaries and living with integrity.
- Respect Family Boundaries: Make a conscious effort to honor and respect the boundaries within your family. This can be as simple as being mindful of personal space and privacy.
- Practice Integrity: Live out the values of honesty and respect in your daily interactions. For example, avoid gossip and speak kindly about others.
- Engage in Prayer: Regularly pray for wisdom and strength to uphold these principles. A simple prayer each morning can set a positive tone for the day.
- Community Involvement: Participate in community activities that promote healthy relationships and support those in need. Volunteering at local shelters or family support groups can make a big difference.
- Reflect on Scripture: Spend time each week reading and reflecting on Bible verses that emphasize respect and integrity. This can help reinforce these values in your life.
Remember, God is always with you, guiding you towards a life of integrity and love. Trust in His presence and let your faith drive positive change in your relationships.
For more prayers and Bible verses, visit PrayersFor or try our Bible Verse Generator to deepen your understanding and faith.
