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Verse Takeaways
1
A Ban on Pagan Ritual
Commentators overwhelmingly agree that this verse is not just a general law against prostitution. It specifically forbids “cultic prostitution”—sexual acts performed as part of pagan worship for deities like Baal and Ashtoreth. This law was crucial for distinguishing Israel's holy worship from the idolatrous practices of surrounding nations.
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Book Overview
Deuteronomy
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Commentaries
5
Albert Barnes
On Deuteronomy 23:17
18th Century
Theologian
Compare the marginal reference. Prostitution was a common part of religious observances among idolatrous nations, especially in the worship of Asht…
Charles Ellicott
On Deuteronomy 23:17
19th Century
Bishop
Whore and sodomite both seem intended to be understood in the sense of their association with the temples of Baal and Ashtaroth, a…
John Calvin
On Deuteronomy 23:17
16th Century
Theologian
This passage is similar to the preceding one, for in the first clause He forbids that girls should be prostituted. Some think that a prostitute is …
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John Gill
On Deuteronomy 23:17
17th Century
Pastor
There shall be no whore of the daughters of Israel
The word for "whore" is "kedeshah", which properly signifies an "holy" one;…
Matthew Henry
On Deuteronomy 23:15–25
17th Century
Minister
It is honorable to shelter and protect the weak, provided they are not wicked. Proselytes and converts to the truth should be treated with particul…