Book of Deuteronomy - Chapter 23 - Verse 17

This verse from the Bible specifically addresses the issue of sexual immorality among the daughters and sons of Israel. The term "whore" refers to a woman who engages in promiscuous sexual behavior, while a "sodomite" refers to a man who engages in homosexual acts. The verse emphasizes the importance of maintaining moral purity and fidelity within the community of Israel. By prohibiting such behavior, the verse seeks to uphold the sanctity of marriage and family life, as well as to protect the spiritual well-being of individuals within the community. This verse serves as a reminder to the Israelites of the standards of behavior that are expected of them in order to maintain their covenant relationship with God. The overarching message of the verse is one of moral purity and obedience to God's commandments.

Within the theological interpretation of the verse commanding the Israelites to abstain from engaging in promiscuous behaviors, such as prostitution and sodomy, lies a deeper message about the importance of maintaining moral purity and upholding the values of the community. The use of terms like "whore" and "sodomite" in this context serves to emphasize the seriousness of these transgressions in the eyes of God. Furthermore, the verse can be seen as a reflection of the ancient Israelites' striving to create a society that adheres to the laws and commandments set forth by God. Word studies on the original Hebrew text can provide additional insight into the cultural and historical context in which these prohibitions were given, shedding light on the significance of sexual purity within the religious and social framework of that period.