Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the term "dog" was often used metaphorically to describe individuals of low status or those engaged in morally questionable activities. One of the more controversial interpretations of the term "dog" in the Bible is its association with male temple prostitutes, sometimes referred to as "sodomites" in older translations. This interpretation is derived from the cultural and religious practices of neighboring pagan societies, where male prostitution was sometimes linked to temple rituals.The Bible explicitly addresses the issue of bringing the earnings from such activities into the sanctuary. In Deuteronomy 23:18 , it is written: "You must not bring the wages of a prostitute or the earnings of a dog into the house of the LORD your God to pay any vow, because both are detestable to the LORD your God." This verse underscores the biblical principle that the sanctuary, as a holy place dedicated to the worship of God, must remain free from the taint of immoral earnings. The prohibition against bringing the "price of a dog" into the sanctuary reflects a broader biblical theme of maintaining purity and holiness in worship. The sanctuary was to be a place set apart for God, and anything associated with idolatry or immorality was considered an abomination. This commandment served as a reminder to the Israelites to uphold the sanctity of their worship practices and to distance themselves from the corrupting influences of surrounding cultures. The use of the term "dog" in this context highlights the Bible's strong stance against practices that were seen as contrary to God's design for human relationships and worship. It also serves as a call to the faithful to ensure that their offerings and sacrifices are made with integrity and purity of heart. In summary, the biblical injunction against bringing the "price of a dog" into the sanctuary is a reflection of the broader biblical call to holiness and the rejection of practices deemed detestable by God. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining the sanctity of worship and the need for the faithful to live in accordance with God's commandments. Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 23:18You shall not bring the hire of a whore, or the price of a dog, into the house of the LORD your God for any vow: for even both these are abomination to the LORD your God. Nave's Topical Index Resources Why did Jesus call the Canaanite woman a dog? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the difference between Microevolution and Macroevolution? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that you are the head and not the tail in Deuteronomy 28:13? | GotQuestions.org Dog: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Dog (Sodomite?): Dumb and Sleeping Dog (Sodomite?): Epithet of Contempt Dog (Sodomite?): Habits of Lapping of Dog (Sodomite?): Habits of Licking Blood Dog (Sodomite?): Habits of Licking Sores Dog (Sodomite?): Habits of Returns to Eat his own Vomit Dog (Sodomite?): Price of, not to be Brought Into the Sanctuary Dog (Sodomite?): Shepherd Dogs The Dog: (Dumb) of Unfaithful Ministers The Dog: Dangerous and Destructive The Dog: Infested Cities by Night The Dog: Manner of, in Drinking Alluded To The Dog: Nothing Holy to be Given To The Dog: Price of, not to be Consecrated The Dog: Sacrificing of, an Abomination The Dog: Things Torn by Beasts Given To The Dog: when Domesticated: Employed in Watching Flocks The Dog: when Domesticated: Fed With the Crumbs Related Terms |
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