Old Testament
Deuteronomy 23:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
There shall be no prostitute among the daughters of Israel, nor any male prostitute among the sons of Israel.
Compare translations
There shall be no whore of the daughters of Israel, nor a sodomite of the sons of Israel.
What Deuteronomy 23:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the focus is on maintaining the integrity and moral standards within the community of Israel. It emphasizes that there should be no involvement in prostitution, whether by women or men. This reflects a broader principle of valuing relationships and treating one another with respect. The prohibition against such practices highlights the importance of fidelity and purity in personal conduct. It serves as a reminder that actions have consequences, not just for individuals but for the community as a whole. By upholding these standards, the community can foster a healthy environment that honors commitment and love. This verse encourages individuals to reflect on their choices and the impact they have on their relationships and society. Ultimately, it calls for a commitment to higher values that promote dignity and respect for oneself and others, reinforcing the idea that everyone deserves to be treated with honor and integrity. Such principles are timeless and relevant, urging us to consider how we live and interact with those around us.
How to apply Deuteronomy 23:17 to your life
To apply this teaching, reflect on your relationships and the values you uphold. Consider how your actions affect not only yourself but also those around you. Strive to foster respect and integrity in all your interactions, promoting a positive environment for everyone involved. Make choices that honor yourself and others, reinforcing healthy relationships in your life. Remember, your actions matter and can inspire others to do the same.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Deuteronomy 23:17
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Deuteronomy 23:17
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of Deuteronomy
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 23:17 mean for modern relationships?
Deuteronomy 23:17 emphasizes the importance of integrity and moral standards in relationships. For modern readers, this verse serves as a reminder to value fidelity and respect in all interactions. It encourages individuals to reflect on their choices and how they impact their relationships, promoting a culture of honor and commitment.
Why is prostitution mentioned in Deuteronomy 23:17?
Prostitution is mentioned in Deuteronomy 23:17 to highlight the need for moral purity within the community of Israel. The prohibition against such practices underscores the importance of treating relationships with respect and dignity, reinforcing the idea that actions have consequences for both individuals and the community.
How can I apply the teachings of Deuteronomy 23:17 in my life?
To apply the teachings of Deuteronomy 23:17, focus on fostering respect and integrity in your relationships. Reflect on your actions and their effects on others, making choices that promote healthy interactions. Strive to create an environment that honors commitment and love, encouraging those around you to do the same.
What are the broader principles behind Deuteronomy 23:17?
The broader principles behind Deuteronomy 23:17 include integrity, respect, and community commitment. This verse calls for individuals to uphold high moral standards, emphasizing the importance of fidelity and purity in personal conduct. It serves as a reminder that our actions contribute to the overall health of our relationships and community.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.