Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context Harlotry, often synonymous with prostitution or sexual immorality, is consistently condemned in the Bible. It refers to engaging in sexual relations outside the bounds of marriage, often for monetary gain or idolatrous purposes. The term is used both literally and metaphorically in Scripture to describe unfaithfulness to God. Old Testament References In the Old Testament, harlotry is explicitly forbidden and is often associated with idolatry. The Israelites are repeatedly warned against engaging in the practices of the surrounding nations, which included ritual prostitution as part of pagan worship. Leviticus 19:29 states, "Do not degrade your daughter by making her a prostitute, or the land will turn to prostitution and be filled with wickedness." This command underscores the moral and societal degradation that accompanies such practices. The prophet Hosea uses the metaphor of harlotry to describe Israel's unfaithfulness to God. Hosea 4:12 declares, "My people consult their wooden idols, and their divining rods inform them. For a spirit of prostitution leads them astray; they are unfaithful to their God." Here, harlotry symbolizes spiritual adultery, where the people have turned away from God to pursue other deities. New Testament Teachings In the New Testament, the call to sexual purity is reiterated, and harlotry is condemned as incompatible with the Christian life. The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 6:18 , exhorts believers, "Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a man can commit is outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body." This passage highlights the unique nature of sexual sin and its profound impact on the individual. Revelation also uses the imagery of harlotry to describe the corrupting influence of Babylon, representing worldly systems opposed to God. Revelation 17:5 refers to "Babylon the Great, the mother of prostitutes and of the abominations of the earth," illustrating the pervasive and destructive nature of spiritual and moral unfaithfulness. Moral and Spiritual Implications Harlotry, in its various forms, is seen as a violation of God's design for human sexuality and a breach of the covenant relationship between God and His people. It is portrayed as a sin that not only defiles the individual but also has broader implications for the community and society at large. The Bible calls for repentance and a return to faithfulness, emphasizing God's desire for His people to live in holiness and purity. Conclusion While the Bible unequivocally condemns harlotry, it also offers redemption and restoration for those who turn away from such practices. The account of Rahab, a former prostitute who becomes an ancestor of Jesus (Matthew 1:5), serves as a powerful testament to God's grace and the transformative power of faith. Nave's Topical Index Leviticus 19:29Do not prostitute your daughter, to cause her to be a whore; lest the land fall to prostitution, and the land become full of wickedness. Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 23:17 Library Christian Sympathy A Compendious view of the Christian Life. Letter Lxix. To Oceanus. The Book of Jubilees An Exhortation to Theodore after his Fall. Letter I. Resources What does the Bible say about prostitution? Will God forgive a prostitute? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the consequences of nations turning away from God? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that the marriage bed is undefiled (Hebrews 13:4)? | GotQuestions.org Harlotry: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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