Topical Bible: Harlot (Prostitute): Hire of, not to be Received at the Temple

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In biblical times, the term "harlot" or "prostitute" referred to a woman who engaged in sexual relations for monetary compensation. The practice of prostitution is addressed in various passages throughout the Bible, often highlighting its moral and spiritual implications. One specific aspect of this practice is the prohibition against bringing the earnings of a harlot into the house of the Lord as an offering.

The prohibition is explicitly stated in Deuteronomy 23:18 : "You must not bring the wages of a prostitute or the earnings of a dog into the house of the LORD your God to fulfill any vow, because both are detestable to the LORD your God." This verse underscores the principle that the sanctity of worship and offerings to God must not be tainted by immoral or impure sources of income.

The term "dog" in this context is often understood to refer to male prostitutes or those involved in pagan rituals, further emphasizing the broader prohibition against using earnings from any form of sexual immorality in worship. The underlying message is clear: the holiness of God and the purity of worship must be maintained, and offerings should reflect a life of righteousness and obedience to God's commandments.

Throughout Scripture, the role of the harlot is often used metaphorically to describe unfaithfulness to God, particularly in the context of idolatry and spiritual adultery. For instance, the prophets frequently likened Israel's infidelity to God to the actions of a harlot, as seen in Hosea 1:2 : "When the LORD first spoke through Hosea, He said to him, 'Go, take for yourself a wife of prostitution and children of unfaithfulness, because the land is committing blatant acts of prostitution by forsaking the LORD.'"

The New Testament continues to uphold the call to purity and holiness, urging believers to flee from sexual immorality and to honor God with their bodies (1 Corinthians 6:18-20). The teachings of Jesus and the apostles consistently affirm the value of repentance, forgiveness, and transformation through faith in Christ, offering hope and redemption to all, including those who have engaged in prostitution.

In summary, the biblical injunction against bringing the hire of a harlot into the temple serves as a reminder of the importance of purity in worship and the call to live a life that honors God. It reflects the broader biblical theme of holiness and the transformative power of God's grace for those who turn to Him in repentance and faith.

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Deuteronomy 23:18
You shall not bring the hire of a whore, or the price of a dog, into the house of the LORD your God for any vow: for even both these are abomination to the LORD your God.
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