Meaning
A woman who engages in sexual relations for payment; the word can also be used figuratively for a person or community associated with sexual or spiritual unfaithfulness.
Biblical Usage
In Scripture, harlot describes a woman engaged in prostitution. Rahab is called a harlot when she receives and hides the spies sent to Jericho.
The prophets also use harlotry figuratively for unfaithfulness, particularly when describing Israel or Judah’s departure from the LORD and their association with other gods. The New Testament continues both the literal and figurative uses of the term.
Key References
- Genesis 38:15-24
- Joshua 2:1-21
- Judges 16:1
- Proverbs 7:10-27
- Isaiah 1:21
- Jeremiah 3:3
- Ezekiel 16:15-34
- Matthew 21:31-32
- Revelation 17:1-5
Related Terms
- Adultery
- Fornication
- Unfaithfulness
- Whoredom