Are Ancient Laws About Intimacy Contradictory?
In this article, you will learn how Leviticus 18:19 contradicts Exodus 21:10, 1 Corinthians 7:3-5, Hebrews 13:4, Genesis 9:7 and 1 Timothy 4:4. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
In the realm of biblical teachings, various verses touch on the topic of marital intimacy, yet they often present differing perspectives. A notable example is Leviticus 18:19, which instructs that a man should not approach a woman during her time of separation. This could be understood as a rule to prevent intimate contact when a woman is not at her best, aiming to ensure the health and safety of both partners.
Contrarily, other scriptures seem to approach this concept differently, suggesting more lenient or broad views regarding marital relations. For instance, Exodus 21:10 speaks to a husband’s obligation to his wife, mentioning the provision of food, clothing, and marital rights, but it does not specify any exceptions like those in Leviticus. In a similar vein, 1 Corinthians 7:3-5 underscores the mutual duty of husbands and wives to fulfill each other’s needs, again, without the caveat of specific times when this should be avoided.
Hebrews 13:4 offers yet another perspective by emphasizing the sanctity and honor of marriage without delving into restrictions, while Genesis 9:7 encourages procreation—"be fruitful and multiply"—with no time-bound limitations. Likewise, 1 Timothy 4:4 champions a view that everything God created is inherently good, aligning with an unrestrained approach to intimacy.
One could liken these diverse scriptural perspectives to different chapters in a single guidebook—each providing slightly varied advice for specific scenarios. This raises questions about how these teachings align with each other and how followers today might reconcile these seemingly opposing views. Each verse offers a piece of wisdom for marital conduct, yet their differences might resemble constructive debates within a family, where multiple viewpoints aim towards the common goal of harmony and well-being. How should one navigate these instructions—seeking a balance or following specific stipulations as they see fit? The need for discernment remains as relevant as ever.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Leviticus 18:19 | Also thou shalt not approach unto a woman to uncover her nakedness, as long as she is put apart for her uncleanness. |
| 2. | Exodus 21:10 | If he take him another [wife]; her food, her raiment, and her duty of marriage, shall he not diminish. |
| 3. | 1 Corinthians 7:3-5 | Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. |
| 4. | Hebrews 13:4 | Marriage [is] honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. |
| 5. | Genesis 9:7 | And you, be ye fruitful, and multiply; bring forth abundantly in the earth, and multiply therein. |
| 6. | 1 Timothy 4:4 | For every creature of God [is] good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: |