Commentators like John Gill and Albert Barnes suggest the phrase 'played the harlot' may not mean literal adultery. They argue it could describe her becoming angry, disrespectful, or simply leaving him. A key reason for this view is that the Levite later seeks to reconcile with her. Under the Law, adultery was a capital offense, making reconciliation highly unlikely. Therefore, her action was likely a severe marital rebellion rather than infidelity.