Cross-dressing was forbidden because it violated the distinctions God established between male and female. God created the sexes with distinct roles and appearances, and this law upheld those distinctions as a reflection of His order. Blurring gender identity was associated with confusion, rebellion, and often pagan ritual practices.
“A woman shall not wear anything that pertains to a man, nor shall a man put on a woman’s garment, for all who do so are an abomination to the Lord your God.” (Deuteronomy 22:5)
The term “abomination” here signals God’s strong disapproval. This was not merely about clothing, but about preserving the integrity of gender roles as designed by the Creator. In Israel’s context, such practices were often tied to idolatry and immorality.
God intended for His people to be holy and distinct from surrounding nations. Upholding gender clarity was part of that distinction. Violating it challenged God’s authority in creation and opened the door to broader cultural and spiritual corruption.
This law also guarded against deception, perversion, and social disorder. It reinforced that the body and identity God gives are not to be altered or confused.
