the Week of Proper 27 / Ordinary 32
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Bible Dictionaries
Harlot
Holman Bible Dictionary
The Bible gives few details of the ways in which harlots like Rahab practiced their trade. Evidently, harlots might solicit along the roadside (Genesis 38:14-15 ). Brothels, which often served as taverns and inns, were also known in the Ancient Near East. Rahab's house may have been one (Joshua 2:1 ). It is possible that the prostitute had a distinctive mark on her forehead (Jeremiah 3:3 ) and breasts (Hosea 2:2 ). She might attract attention by her clothing, jewelry and make-up (Jeremiah 4:30; Ezekiel 23:40; Revelation 17:4 ). Flattering with words (Proverbs 2:16 ) and making sweet music (Isaiah 23:16 ) might be used to lure or soothe a client. Her payment might be in money, or it could be in jewelry (Ezekiel 23:42 ) or other items of value (Genesis 38:15-18; compare Luke 15:30 ).
Although harlots were considered socially inferior, they did have legal rights, as is evident from the incident recorded in 1 Kings 3:16-22 . See Fornication; Prostitution .
Wilda W. Morris
These dictionary topics are from the Holman Bible Dictionary, published by Broadman & Holman, 1991. All rights reserved. Used by permission of Broadman & Holman.
Butler, Trent C. Editor. Entry for 'Harlot'. Holman Bible Dictionary. https://www.studylight.org/​dictionaries/​eng/​hbd/​h/harlot.html. 1991.