"... The mention of “whores” (Gk. pornai) could be an attempt to sway the father’s opinion against the prodigal, since the parable never made clear that sexual gratification was the way the younger son lost his money. There is no notice that Junior sent home a postcard with a picture of the Whore of Babylon and an inscription, “Having a wonderful time . . .” Then again, such action would be in keeping with “dissolute living” as well as something that good sons, according to convention, would avoid. As Proverbs 29.3 states, “A child who loves wisdom makes a parent glad, but to keep company with prostitutes is to squander one’s substance.” ..."