Definition: Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin; neither say thou before the angel, that it [was] an error: wherefore should God be angry at thy voice, and destroy the work of thine hands?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ecclesiastes 5:6. It's a really interesting and important piece about how we should live our lives. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is urging us to be careful with our words and actions – especially when we’re speaking to God. It's saying that avoiding sin in your speech and actions will protect you from God's anger. Let's unpack each part of the verse: “Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin…” - This means don't talk or say things that are wrong, that lead you down a path of temptation or wrongdoing. It’s about being mindful of what we say and do. “…neither say thou before the angel, that it [was] an error:” – This is a crucial part. It's saying don't make claims about something that isn't true or correct. Don't assume things are wrong just because you think they might be. Don’t make accusations without proof. “Wherefore should God be angry at thy voice, and destroy the work of thine hands?” – This is where it gets a little deeper. It means that if we say or do something that's not right, it could lead to God’s displeasure. It suggests that our words can have consequences, and that our actions (our "work") are valuable and important. If we mess up, it could be seen as a mistake – a failure to follow God’s will. Overall Meaning: The verse is essentially saying: Be careful with your speech and how you act. Don't make claims or statements that could lead to trouble with God. Focus on doing what’s right and avoid things that might cause him to be angry. In a nutshell, it’s about being responsible with our words and actions, recognizing they have consequences, and striving to live in accordance with God’s will. --- Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a call for humility and honesty. It's not saying we should be afraid of God, but rather that we should be mindful and truthful in our interactions with him. Do you want me to: Explain another aspect of the verse? Give you some examples of how this principle applies to daily life?