Definition: Thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of thy mother’s sister: for she [is] thy mother’s near kinswoman.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Leviticus 18:13. It’s a really important one about modesty and respect for others. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that you shouldn’t look at or touch someone who is naked, especially someone who is closely related to your mother. It’s about respecting boundaries and avoiding inappropriate contact. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of thy mother’s sister” : This is a direct command – you must not. It's referring to a woman who is close to your mother’s family, likely her sister. "Uncover" means to show or expose something. "...for she [is] thy mother’s near kinswoman." : This is the crucial part. The verse adds that this woman is considered a kin . “Kin” refers to someone who is related through blood – like a cousin, niece, etc. So, she's not just any woman; she's connected to your mother in a familial way. What does it mean practically? Essentially, the verse emphasizes that we should treat others with respect and avoid situations where there's an inappropriate level of closeness or physical contact. It’s about maintaining boundaries and showing reverence for those you’re related to. Why is this important in the Bible? This commandment appears in a context of strict religious law, particularly during the Old Testament period. It highlights: Respect for Family: It reinforces the importance of respecting family ties and relationships. Moral Boundaries: It’s a reminder that we should not engage in behaviors that could be considered shameful or offensive. Community Standards: This passage reflects a societal expectation of modesty and propriety – a desire to maintain order and respect within community. In short, this verse is a warning against inappropriate physical contact with someone closely related to your mother's family. It’s a foundational principle for ethical behavior in the biblical worldview. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the context of this verse within the larger story of Jewish law? Give an example of how this principle might be applied today?