The words “prostitute” and “harlot” are both used to talk about a person who does sexual things for money. In ancient times, male and female prostitutes served false gods in their temples as part of their religious rituals.
In the Bible, the word “prostitute” is also used to talk about a person who worships false gods or who does evil things. The prophets told the kingdoms Israel and Judah that they acted like a prostitute when they did not honor their covenant with Yahweh. Israel and Judah also acted like a prostitute when they worshiped false gods (see: Ezekiel 16; Hosea 3:1-5; 4:10-13).
Paul warned Christians against having sex with a prostitute (see: 1 Corinthians 6:12-20). A Christian’s physical body belongs to Jesus. It should not be used for sexual immorality.
The book of Revelation talks about “the great prostitute” (see: Revelation 17; 19:2). She is also called “Babylon the great.” The great prostitute is a symbol of a sinful person, a sinful city, or a sinful nation. The words “mother of prostitutes” are used to talk about this sinful person, city, or nation causing other people to sin (see: Revelation 17:5).
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