Deuteronomy 23:18 Meaning and Explanation
“Thou shalt not bring the hire of a whore, or the price of a dog, into the house of the LORD thy God for any vow: for even both these are abomination unto the LORD thy God.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Payment from prostitution or bestiality cannot be offered as a vow-gift to God's house.
The Context of Deuteronomy 23:18
Sanctity of offerings to God's house.
What Does Deuteronomy 23:18 Mean?
Earnings from illicit sexual services—whether from a whore (temple prostitute) or from bestiality (termed 'price of a dog')—were absolutely forbidden as offering or vow-payment to God. The law prevents someone from 'cleaning' money gained through such acts by donating it to the sanctuary.
The prohibition reveals that the sanctuary remained separate from commerce rooted in sexual sin. An abomination offered could not be received by God; his holiness rejected gifts procured through deflement. This protected both the integrity of worship and the sanctuary itself.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 23:18
What does Deuteronomy 23:18 mean?
Payment from prostitution or bestiality cannot be offered as a vow-gift to God's house.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 23:18?
Sanctity of offerings to God's house.