An Exegesis of Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13 on Homosexuality: A Response to Revisionist Interpretations
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33856/kerusso.v11i1.583Keywords:
Hermeneutics; Homosexuality; Leviticus 18:22; Leviticus 20:13; HolinessAbstract
Contemporary interpretations from Revisionist theologians have begun to question the clarity of the meaning of Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13 by associating them with the context of ancient idol worship. This stands in stark contrast to the traditional understanding that reads these verses as a firm prohibition against homosexual practice. This study aims to affirm the clarity of the prohibition of homosexuality in Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13 through a comprehensive hermeneutical analysis. Using an exegetical approach employing the grammatical-historical method on the Hebrew text, this study critically evaluates the deconstructive arguments of revisionist theology that seek to limit this prohibition merely to ancient Israelite ritual law. The literal, lexical, and grammatical analysis reveals the consistency of the text's meaning: the negative particle "lo" affirms an absolute prohibition, the term "zakar" specifically refers to males based on biological sex, and the word "tó'ebâ" positions homosexual practice as an "abomination" within a universal moral framework. Its placement within the holiness code alongside serious violations such as incest and bestiality confirms its nature as a moral offense, not merely a ritual prohibition. This study concludes that both texts firmly oppose homosexuality as a violation of the created order and the holiness of God, while also calling for a balanced pastoral approach between doctrinal firmness and love in facing contemporary challenges.
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