In the biblical context, prostitution is often depicted as a grievous sin, and women involved in such practices are frequently portrayed as defiled. The Bible addresses the issue of prostitution in various passages, emphasizing the moral and spiritual implications of such actions.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, prostitution is explicitly condemned. The Mosaic Law contains specific prohibitions against prostitution, reflecting the seriousness with which it was regarded. Deuteronomy 23:17-18 states, "No daughter or son of Israel is to be a cult prostitute. You must not bring the wages of a prostitute or the earnings of a dog into the house of the LORD your God to pay any vow, because both are detestable to the LORD your God." This passage underscores the defilement associated with prostitution and the rejection of its proceeds as offerings to God.

The account of Hosea and Gomer in the Book of Hosea serves as a poignant illustration of God's relationship with Israel, using the metaphor of a marriage to a prostitute. Hosea 1:2 records God's command to Hosea: "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." This narrative highlights the spiritual adultery of Israel and the defilement that comes from turning away from God.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, Jesus' interactions with women who were considered sinners, including those involved in prostitution, reveal a message of redemption and forgiveness. In Luke 7:37-38 , a woman known to be a sinner anoints Jesus' feet with perfume and tears. Despite her past, Jesus acknowledges her faith and forgives her sins, as seen in Luke 7:48 : "Then Jesus said to her, 'Your sins are forgiven.'"

The account of the woman caught in adultery in John 8:3-11 further illustrates Jesus' approach to sin and redemption. When the Pharisees bring the woman to Jesus, seeking to stone her according to the Law, Jesus responds, "Let him who is without sin among you be the first to cast a stone at her" (John 8:7). After her accusers leave, Jesus tells the woman, "Neither do I condemn you. Go and sin no more" (John 8:11). This encounter emphasizes the possibility of transformation and the call to a new life free from sin.

Moral and Spiritual Implications

The Bible consistently portrays prostitution as a defilement of the body and spirit. In 1 Corinthians 6:15-20 , the Apostle Paul warns against sexual immorality, including prostitution, by reminding believers that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. He writes, "Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I then take the members of Christ and unite them with a prostitute? Never!" (1 Corinthians 6:15). This passage underscores the sanctity of the body and the importance of maintaining purity.

Prostitution is often used metaphorically in Scripture to describe spiritual unfaithfulness and idolatry. The prophets frequently liken Israel's idolatry to prostitution, as seen in Ezekiel 16 and 23, where the nation's infidelity to God is depicted in graphic terms. These metaphors serve as powerful reminders of the spiritual consequences of turning away from God.

Redemption and Restoration

Despite the defilement associated with prostitution, the Bible offers a message of hope and redemption. The transformative power of God's grace is evident in the lives of those who turn away from sin and seek forgiveness. The account of Rahab, a prostitute in Jericho who aids the Israelite spies, exemplifies this redemption. Her faith and actions lead to her inclusion in the lineage of Jesus, as noted in Matthew 1:5 .

The biblical narrative consistently affirms that no sin is beyond the reach of God's forgiveness. Women defiled by prostitution, like all sinners, are offered the opportunity for repentance and a restored relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ.