Enormity
TextsWhat is the meaning of Enormity in the Bible?
The English term 'enormity' serves as a translation for the Hebrew word zimmah, which denotes lewdness, wickedness, or unnatural sexual conduct, specifically incest, as prescribed in Leviticus 18:17, 19:29, and 20:14.
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing this specific translation clarifies the precise legal and moral boundaries regarding sexual relationships established in the Holiness Code, helping readers distinguish between premeditated moral violations and other forms of ritual impurity.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how Enormity functions as an authoritative historical witness connecting earlier prophetic promises with scripture's broader fulfillment.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Enormity in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Enormity clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Leviticus 18:17
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Enormity." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/enormity/