Prostitution is one of the oldest professions, but what does the Bible say about it? The scriptures address this topic with both compassion and a call for repentance, offering stories of redemption and transformation. Let’s explore the biblical perspective on prostitution and what it teaches us about grace and forgiveness.
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What Does The Bible Say About prostitutes
Proverbs 23:27-28
“For a prostitute is a deep pit and a wayward wife is a narrow well. Like a bandit she lies in wait and multiplies the unfaithful among men.”
This verse warns against the dangers of engaging in relationships with prostitutes and unfaithful women. It metaphorically describes them as deep pits and narrow wells, highlighting the potential for harm and destruction that comes with such associations.
It cautions against the allure and allurements of the prostitute, emphasizing the need for wisdom and discernment to avoid being ensnared by their deceitful ways.
Proverbs 2:16-19
“Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men, from men whose words are perverse, who have left the straight paths to walk in dark ways, who delight in doing wrong and rejoice in the perverseness of evil, whose paths are crooked and who are devious in their ways.”
This verse highlights the contrast between wisdom and the ways of wicked men. It emphasizes that wisdom serves as a safeguard, protecting individuals from the influence and enticement of those who engage in perverse and sinful behavior.
It encourages individuals to avoid following the paths of darkness and to seek the straight and righteous paths guided by wisdom, steering clear of those who delight in wrongdoing and perverted acts.
Proverbs 5:3-6
“For the lips of the adulterous woman drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil; but in the end she is bitter as gall, sharp as a double-edged sword. Her feet go down to death; her steps lead straight to the grave. She gives no thought to the way of life; her paths wander aimlessly, but she does not know it.”
This verse portrays the seductive nature of an adulterous woman, warning of the deceptive allure that lies in her words and actions. It cautions that although her speech may seem sweet and smooth like honey and oil, the outcome of engaging with her is ultimately bitter and harmful.
It highlights the destructive consequences that follow those who walk in the path of the adulterous woman, leading to death and the grave. It emphasizes the lack of wisdom and foresight in her choices, as her paths lead to aimlessness and unknowing.
Proverbs 6:26
“For a prostitute can be had for a loaf of bread, but another man’s wife preys on your very life.”
This verse draws a distinction between engaging with a prostitute and engaging with another man’s wife. It suggests that the consequences of involvement with a married woman are far more severe and damaging, as it preys on one’s life.
It serves as a cautionary reminder that adultery and infidelity not only harm relationships but also have a long-lasting impact on one’s well-being and soul, implying that the cost of such actions are much greater than a mere material transaction.
Proverbs 7:10-12
“Then out came a woman to meet him, dressed like a prostitute and with crafty intent. She is unruly and defiant, her feet never stay at home; now in the street, now in the squares, at every corner she lurks.”
This verse paints a vivid picture of a woman who embodies the characteristics of a prostitute – enticing and manipulative with her appearance and intentions. It describes her as rebellious, always on the move and searching for opportunities to lure men into her grasp.
It serves as a warning against the temptations found in the streets and corners, cautioning individuals to be aware of those who seek to lead them astray through their deceptive and elusive behaviors.
Proverbs 29:3
“A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth.”
This verse presents a contrast between a man who seeks wisdom and a man who engages with prostitutes. It suggests that the wise man brings joy and fulfillment to his father, while the one who associates with prostitutes wastes his resources and brings shame to himself and his family.
It emphasizes the importance of choosing virtuous and honorable companionship, as the consequences of engaging with prostitutes can lead to financial ruin and tarnish one’s reputation.
Proverbs 9:13-18
“A foolish woman is clamorous; she is simple and knows nothing. For she sits at the door of her house, on a seat by the highest places of the city, to call to those who pass by, who go straight on their way: ‘Whoever is simple, let him turn in here’; and as for him who lacks understanding, she says to him, ‘Stolen water is sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant.’ But he does not know that the dead are there, that her guests are in the depths of hell.”
This verse vividly describes the characteristics of a foolish woman who entices others through her seductive and manipulative ways. It depicts her as noisy and lacking wisdom, positioned strategically to appeal to the unsuspecting passersby.
It serves as a cautionary tale, warning against being lured in by temporary pleasures and the illusion of secrecy. It reveals the dark reality that lies beneath the surface, implying that engaging with such individuals leads to spiritual death and damnation.
Hosea 4:14
“I will not punish your daughters when they turn to prostitution, nor your daughters-in-law when they commit adultery, because the men themselves consort with harlots and sacrifice with shrine prostitutes – a people without understanding will come to ruin!”
This verse depicts a scene where the Lord declares that He will not punish the daughters and daughters-in-law when they engage in prostitution and adultery. It highlights that their behavior is a result of the corrupt influence of the men in their lives, who themselves join in the sinful activities.
It serves as a warning about the consequences that befall a people who lack understanding and indulge in immoral practices, suggesting that ruin and destruction are the inevitable outcomes of such actions.
Exodus 34:15-16
“Be careful not to make a treaty with those who live in the land; for when they prostitute themselves to their gods and sacrifice to them, they will invite you and you will eat their sacrifices. And when you choose some of their daughters as wives for your sons and those daughters prostitute themselves to their gods, they will lead your sons to do the same.”
This verse serves as a warning to the Israelites against forming alliances with the inhabitants of foreign lands who engage in idolatrous practices. It cautions that by associating with them and intermarrying, the Israelites would be led astray and encouraged to partake in the same sinful acts.
It emphasizes the importance of guarding against the influence of those who engage in worshiping false gods, encouraging the Israelites to remain faithful to the Lord and avoid being enticed by the immoral practices of other nations.
Leviticus 19:29
“Do not degrade your daughter by making her a prostitute, or the land will turn to prostitution and be filled with wickedness.”
This verse prohibits the degradation of daughters by forcing them into prostitution. It warns that such actions will not only bring shame and harm to the individual but also serve as a catalyst for widespread wickedness and moral decay in the land.
It underscores the importance of upholding the dignity and value of women, emphasizing that engaging in the exploitation of others leads to a deterioration of societal norms and the proliferation of evil.
1 Corinthians 6:15-16
“Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ himself? Shall I then take the members of Christ and unite them with a prostitute? Never! Do you not know that he who unites himself with a prostitute is one with her in body? For it is said, ‘The two will become one flesh.'”
This verse addresses the Corinthians, reminding them that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and bear a sacred union with Christ. It emphasizes the incongruity and violation that occurs when a believer unites with a prostitute.
It emphasizes the spiritual and physical implications of engaging in sexual acts with a prostitute, highlighting the biblical concept of two individuals becoming one flesh in the context of marriage and underscoring the inappropriate nature of engaging in such activities outside of that covenant.
1 Corinthians 6:18
“Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body.”
This verse exhorts believers to flee from sexual immorality. It distinguishes sexual sins from other transgressions, noting that they directly impact the individual’s own body.
It emphasizes the seriousness and gravity of engaging in sexual immorality, cautioning against its destructive consequences and highlighting the importance of preserving the sanctity and purity of one’s own body.
1 Corinthians 7:2
“But since sexual immorality is occurring, each man should have sexual relations with his own wife, and each woman with her own husband.”
This verse addresses the issue of sexual immorality within the context of marriage. It suggests that in order to avoid falling into the trap of sexual sin, each married individual should fulfill their sexual desires within the bounds of their marital relationship.
It reinforces the importance of fidelity and faithfulness within marriage, discouraging extramarital affairs and emphasizing the significance of honoring the commitment made to one’s spouse.
Galatians 5:19-21
“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
This verse lists various sinful actions and behaviors, including sexual immorality, as acts of the flesh that are contrary to the Spirit of God. It emphasizes that those who persist in such behaviors will not inherit the kingdom of God.
It highlights the importance of living in obedience to God’s commands, abstaining from immoral practices, and seeking to cultivate the fruits of the Spirit, which are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Proverbs 23:27-28
“For a prostitute is a deep pit and a wayward wife is a narrow well. Like a bandit she lies in wait and multiplies the unfaithful among men.”
This verse warns against the dangers of engaging in relationships with prostitutes and unfaithful women. It metaphorically describes them as deep pits and narrow wells, highlighting the potential for harm and destruction that comes with such associations.
It cautions against the allure and allurements of the prostitute, emphasizing the need for wisdom and discernment to avoid being ensnared by their deceitful ways.
Proverbs 2:16-19
“Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men, from men whose words are perverse, who have left the straight paths to walk in dark ways, who delight in doing wrong and rejoice in the perverseness of evil, whose paths are crooked and who are devious in their ways.”
This verse highlights the contrast between wisdom and the ways of wicked men. It emphasizes that wisdom serves as a safeguard, protecting individuals from the influence and enticement of those who engage in perverse and sinful behavior.
It encourages individuals to avoid following the paths of darkness and to seek the straight and righteous paths guided by wisdom, steering clear of those who delight in wrongdoing and perverted acts.
Proverbs 5:3-6
“For the lips of the adulterous woman drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil; but in the end she is bitter as gall, sharp as a double-edged sword. Her feet go down to death; her steps lead straight to the grave. She gives no thought to the way of life; her paths wander aimlessly, but she does not know it.”
This verse portrays the seductive nature of an adulterous woman, warning of the deceptive allure that lies in her words and actions. It cautions that although her speech may seem sweet and smooth like honey and oil, the outcome of engaging with her is ultimately bitter and harmful.
It highlights the destructive consequences that follow those who walk in the path of the adulterous woman, leading to death and the grave. It emphasizes the lack of wisdom and foresight in her choices, as her paths lead to aimlessness and unknowing.
Proverbs 6:26
“For a prostitute can be had for a loaf of bread, but another man’s wife preys on your very life.”
This verse draws a distinction between engaging with a prostitute and engaging with another man’s wife. It suggests that the consequences of involvement with a married woman are far more severe and damaging, as it preys on one’s life.
It serves as a cautionary reminder that adultery and infidelity not only harm relationships but also have a long-lasting impact on one’s well-being and soul, implying that the cost of such actions is much greater than a mere material transaction.
Proverbs 7:10-12
“Then out came a woman to meet him, dressed like a prostitute and with crafty intent. She is unruly and defiant, her feet never stay at home; now in the street, now in the squares, at every corner she lurks.”
This verse paints a vivid picture of a woman who embodies the characteristics of a prostitute – enticing and manipulative with her appearance and intentions. It describes her as rebellious, always on the move and searching for opportunities to lure men into her grasp.
It serves as a warning against the temptations found in the streets and corners, cautioning individuals to be aware of those who seek to lead them astray through their deceptive and elusive behaviors.
Proverbs 29:3
“A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth.”
This verse presents a contrast between a man who seeks wisdom and a man who engages with prostitutes. It suggests that the wise man brings joy and fulfillment to his father, while the one who associates with prostitutes wastes his resources and brings shame to himself and his family.
It emphasizes the importance of choosing virtuous and honorable companionship, as the consequences of engaging with prostitutes can lead to financial ruin and tarnish one’s reputation.
Proverbs 9:13-18
“A foolish woman is clamorous; she is simple and knows nothing. For she sits at the door of her house, on a seat by the highest places of the city, to call to those who pass by, who go straight on their way: ‘Whoever is simple, let him turn in here’; and as for him who lacks understanding, she says to him, ‘Stolen water is sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant.’ But he does not know that the dead are there, that her guests are in the depths of hell.”
This verse vividly describes the characteristics of a foolish woman who entices others through her seductive and manipulative ways. It depicts her as noisy and lacking wisdom, positioned strategically to appeal to the unsuspecting passersby.
It serves as a cautionary tale, warning against being lured in by temporary pleasures and the illusion of secrecy. It reveals the dark reality that lies beneath the surface, implying that engaging with such individuals leads to spiritual death and damnation.
Hosea 4:14
“I will not punish your daughters when they turn to prostitution, nor your daughters-in-law when they commit adultery, because the men themselves consort with harlots and sacrifice with shrine prostitutes – a people without understanding will come to ruin!”
This verse depicts a scene where the Lord declares that He will not punish the daughters and daughters-in-law when they engage in prostitution and adultery. It highlights that their behavior is a result of the corrupt influence of the men in their lives, who themselves join in the sinful activities.
It serves as a warning about the consequences that befall a people who lack understanding and indulge in immoral practices, suggesting that ruin and destruction are the inevitable outcomes of such actions.
Exodus 34:15-16
“Be careful not to make a treaty with those who live in the land; for when they prostitute themselves to their gods and sacrifice to them, they will invite you and you will eat their sacrifices. And when you choose some of their daughters as wives for your sons and those daughters prostitute themselves to their gods, they will lead your sons to do the same.”
This verse serves as a warning to the Israelites against forming alliances with the inhabitants of foreign lands who engage in idolatrous practices. It cautions that by associating with them and intermarrying, the Israelites would be led astray and encouraged to partake in the same sinful acts.
It emphasizes the importance of guarding against the influence of those who engage in worshiping false gods, encouraging the Israelites to remain faithful to the Lord and avoid being enticed by the immoral practices of other nations.
Leviticus 19:29
“Do not degrade your daughter by making her a prostitute, or the land will turn to prostitution and be filled with wickedness.”
This verse prohibits the degradation of daughters by forcing them into prostitution. It warns that such actions will not only bring shame and harm to the individual but also serve as a catalyst for widespread wickedness and moral decay in the land.
It underscores the importance of upholding the dignity and value of women, emphasizing that engaging in the exploitation of others leads to a deterioration of societal norms and the proliferation of evil.
1 Corinthians 6:15-16
“Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ himself? Shall I then take the members of Christ and unite them with a prostitute? Never! Do you not know that he who unites himself with a prostitute is one with her in body? For it is said, ‘The two will become one flesh.'”
This verse addresses the Corinthians, reminding them that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and bear a sacred union with Christ. It emphasizes the incongruity and violation that occurs when a believer unites with a prostitute.
It emphasizes the spiritual and physical implications of engaging in sexual acts with a prostitute, highlighting the biblical concept of two individuals becoming one flesh in the context of marriage and underscoring the inappropriate nature of engaging in such activities outside of that covenant.
1 Corinthians 6:18
“Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body.”
This verse exhorts believers to flee from sexual immorality. It distinguishes sexual sins from other transgressions, noting that they directly impact the individual’s own body.
It emphasizes the seriousness and gravity of engaging in sexual immorality, cautioning against its destructive consequences and highlighting the importance of preserving the sanctity and purity of one’s own body.
1 Corinthians 7:2
“But since sexual immorality is occurring, each man should have sexual relations with his own wife, and each woman with her own husband.”
This verse addresses the issue of sexual immorality within the context of marriage. It suggests that in order to avoid falling into the trap of sexual sin, each married individual should fulfill their sexual desires within the bounds of their marital relationship.
It reinforces the importance of fidelity and faithfulness within marriage, discouraging extramarital affairs and emphasizing the significance of honoring the commitment made to one’s spouse.
Galatians 5:19-21
“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
This verse lists various sinful actions and behaviors, including sexual immorality, as acts of the flesh that are contrary to the Spirit of God. It emphasizes that those who persist in such behaviors will not inherit the kingdom of God.
It highlights the importance of living in obedience to God’s commands, abstaining from immoral practices, and seeking to cultivate the fruits of the Spirit, which are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.