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Understanding the phrase “play the harlot”
The phrase “play the harlot” has its roots in ancient times and has been used in various contexts throughout history. In the Bible, a harlot is defined as a prostitute, a woman who engages in casual sexual encounters or relationships for gains. The phrase “play the harlot” is used in the Bible to describe the act of engaging in sexual immorality, particularly in a spiritual sense. In the Bible, play the harlot describes spiritual prostitution in which the people of God forsake God and offer their acts of worship such as prayer, sacrifices, adoration, etc. to other deities.
The expression play the harlot or playing the harlot or played the harlot or playedst the harlot appear frequently in the prophecies of Jeremiah, Ezekiel and Hosea. They were used about instances where the Israelites were unfaithful to God but rendered their acts of worship to, not one, but many pagan deities such as Ashtoreth, the goddess of the Zidonians; Baal; Milcom, the god of the Ammonites; Chemosh, the god of Moab; Molech, the god of the Ammonites, etc.
For instance, in the book of Hosea, the prophet accuses the people of Israel of “playing the harlot against their God” due to their idolatry. The phrase has since been used metaphorically to describe various forms of betrayal or disloyalty. It is one of the terms used to describe apostasy in the Bible.
The interpretation and usage of the phrase “play the harlot” have evolved over time and are often dependent on the context in which it is used. In modern-day language, the phrase is often used to describe someone who is unfaithful or disloyal in a romantic relationship. However, the phrase can also be used in a broader sense to describe any act of betrayal or disloyalty. It is important to note that the phrase can be considered archaic and may not be commonly used in contemporary language.
Despite its archaic origins, the phrase “play the harlot” continues to have relevance in modern-day language. The phrase can be used to describe a variety of situations, including political scandals, business betrayals, and personal relationships. It is important to note, however, that the use of the phrase can be considered offensive and derogatory, particularly in reference to women. As such, it is important to use the phrase with caution and sensitivity and to be mindful of its historical connotations and potential for harm.
Ways in which Christians play the harlot
- Idolatry is still not far from the Christendom. The practice of bowing down to statues or idols and sculptures such as the cross, etc. are all tantamount to playing the harlot – apostasy. (Exodus 20:4-5)
- Christians who practice or consult divination, medium, witchcraft, etc. in the quest for help, fame, healing, protection, success, etc. are guilty of playing the harlot. (De 18:10-11)
- Some professing Christians make harlots of themselves by embracing ideas, opinions, doctrines, etc. which do not pertain to Christianity. In other words, they play the harlot by upholding false teachings, false doctrines, superstitions, worldly opinions, philosophies of men, human customs and traditions, etc. which go contrary to the Bible. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
Conclusion
Playing the harlot is tantamount to apostasy. Playing the harlot is not a thing of the past; it is still happening. This calls for Christians to be circumspect. Christians should guide themselves from going after things, ideas, habits, etc. that contradict the Christian faith.