Bestiality: Understanding the Biblical Prohibition of Human-Animal Sexual Relations

Bestiality, defined as sexual intercourse between a human and an animal, stands as one of the most severe moral and religious violations in biblical law. This article explores its theological, ethical, and cultural dimensions as presented in Scripture.

Nature and Definition of Bestiality

Bestiality refers to perverted sexual behaviour involving a human and an animal. It is categorically condemned in the Bible as unnatural, morally abhorrent, and a violation of God’s created order. Such acts corrupt the sanctity of human sexuality, which was designed exclusively for the marital union between a man and a woman (Gen 2:24).

Biblical Condemnation and Legal Prohibitions

The Mosaic Law explicitly prohibits bestiality under the strongest penalties. Exodus 22:19 declares, “Whoever lies with an animal shall surely be put to death.” Similarly, Leviticus 18:23 states, “You shall not lie with any animal and defile yourself with it, neither shall any woman stand before an animal to mate with it; it is a perversion.” The severity is reiterated in Leviticus 20:15–16, where both the individual and the animal involved are to be put to death, emphasizing the defiling nature of the act.

Deuteronomy 27:21 includes a curse on anyone who commits bestiality, underscoring its status as a grave sin that disrupts the holiness of the community. These laws were not merely civil statutes, but religious commands designed to preserve moral purity and distinguish Israel from surrounding nations practicing such abominations (Lev 18:24–28).

Theological Foundations: Creation and the Order of Life

The prohibition finds its foundation in the Genesis account of creation. Before Eve was formed, Adam named the animals, and “for Adam no suitable helper was found” (Gen 2:20). This highlights that animals were never intended to fulfill human companionship or sexual needs. Only with the creation of Eve from Adam’s rib was there a being suitable for intimate union (Gen 2:21–24).

Thus, bestiality represents a fundamental rejection of God’s design. It blurs the sacred boundary between humans—created in the image of God (Gen 1:27)—and animals, undermining human dignity and the divine purpose for sexuality.

Reflection and Application:

• Bestiality violates the sanctity of human sexuality as designed by God for marriage.
• The Mosaic penalties reflect the seriousness of sins that defile both person and community.
• Creation order establishes clear distinctions between humans and animals, which must be upheld.

See also: sexual sins.