Marriage with a deceased wife's sister: Leviticus XVIII. 18, considered in connection with the Law of the Levirate

"Marriage with a Deceased Wife's Sister" by Mayow Wynell Mayow is a theological treatise written during the late 19th century. This publication is an argument centered around the legal and moral implications of allowing a man to marry his deceased wife's sister, a practice that was widely debated in the Victorian era. The author primarily engages with Scriptural texts, particularly from Leviticus, to outline his opposition to changes in marriage laws that would permit such unions, which he views as contrary to biblical edicts. In this book, Mayow Wynell Mayow addresses the controversy surrounding the proposed legislation allowing marriage with a deceased wife’s sister, articulating a detailed scriptural argument against it. Mayow emphasizes verses from Leviticus, arguing that they clearly position such marriages as incestuous and forbidden. He scrutinizes the interpretations of those advocating for the change, asserting that their readings misplace the intent and meaning of these biblical texts. Throughout his discourse, he highlights the potential moral implications and societal consequences of altering existing marriage laws, positioning his views firmly against the proposed changes while reinforcing adherence to traditional Christian doctrine.