Definition: And will ye pollute me among my people for handfuls of barley and for pieces of bread, to slay the souls that should not die, and to save the souls alive that should not live, by your lying to my people that hear [your] lies?
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 13:19. It’s a really serious warning, and it speaks about deception and betrayal. Here's a breakdown in simpler terms: What the Verse Says: “And will ye pollute me among my people for handfuls of barley and for pieces of bread, to slay the souls that should not die, and to save the souls alive that should not live, by your lying to my people that hear [your] lies?” Here’s what it means, piece by piece: “And will ye pollute me among my people…” – This is a strong statement of disrespect. It suggests someone is deliberately trying to harm or corrupt God and his people. “Pollute” means to ruin or damage something. “…for handfuls of barley and for pieces of bread…” - This refers to small amounts – like a few grains of barley or a small piece of bread. It’s about intentionally causing harm, not grand schemes. “To slay the souls that should not die…” - This is a frightening idea: someone is actively trying to stop people from dying. It implies they are deliberately hindering God's plan for salvation. “…and to save the souls alive that should not live…” – This highlights a second, equally concerning aspect: someone is actively trying to prevent people from living. They’re actively working against God’s purpose for humanity. “by your lying to my people that hear [your] lies?” – This is the core of the warning. It accuses the person doing this of deliberately deceiving and misleading God's people. The word "lie" here means to tell a false story or mislead someone. Overall Meaning & Context: Ezekiel 13:19 is a message of severe judgment and rebellion against God. It suggests that someone is actively trying to undermine God’s authority and cause suffering among his people. It's a call to watch out for those who are deceitful and misleading, as they could be involved in this harmful activity. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of idolatry – worshipping false gods. It speaks to the importance of trusting God’s word and resisting deception. --- Disclaimer: I am an AI Chatbot and not a religious advisor. If you need deeper understanding or guidance regarding faith, I encourage you to consult with a qualified spiritual leader. Do you want me to: Explain this verse further in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or theme?