Deuteronomy 23:18 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 23:18 mean?

Deuteronomy 23:18 says that money earned from prostitution or from what is called “the price of a dog” must not be brought as an offering to the house of the LORD for any vow, because both are detestable to God. The verse forbids using earnings from certain immoral acts as gifts or offerings in worship.

This instruction comes from Moses, speaking to the Israelites as they prepare to enter the land God promised them. The verse addresses practices common in surrounding cultures, where money from prostitution—including both female and male prostitution (the “dog” likely refers to a male prostitute)—was sometimes used in religious offerings. The law makes clear that the LORD does not accept such money, setting Israel’s worship apart from pagan customs.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 23:18

• הִזְנָה (H2181, zānāh): This word means “whore” or “prostitute.” The use of this specific term shows the verse is talking about money earned from sexual services.
• כֶּלֶב (H3611, kelev): Literally “dog,” but in this context, it is widely understood to mean a male prostitute, not an animal. This reflects a euphemism used in ancient Israel to refer to male cult prostitution, which was practiced in some neighboring religions.
• תּוֹעֵבָה (H8441, toʿēvah): This word means “abomination” or “something detestable.” Its use here strongly emphasizes that God finds these offerings completely unacceptable, not just improper.

Why Deuteronomy 23:18 matters

• Deuteronomy 23:18 clarifies that the source of an offering matters, not just the act of giving; God cares about how money is earned, not only that it is given.
• The verse draws a sharp line between Israelite worship and the religious practices of other nations, where prostitution was sometimes part of temple rituals.
• Understanding the meaning of “dog” in this context helps avoid confusion, showing that the law addresses both female and male prostitution, not animals.