Definition: And they will deceive every one his neighbour, and will not speak the truth: they have taught their tongue to speak lies, [and] weary themselves to commit iniquity.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Jeremiah 9:5. It’s a really powerful warning about how people can be dishonest and misleading. Here's a simple explanation: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that people will become so dishonest and manipulative that they will actively try to trick everyone around them. They won’t just lie; they’ll deliberately spread falsehoods and encourage bad behavior. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Jeremiah 9:5” : This refers to a specific prophecy given by Jeremiah, a prophet in ancient Judah. It's a warning about the future. “And they will deceive every one his neighbour…” : This means people will become dishonest and try to trick everyone else. It’s not just affecting you directly; it’s going to impact all of society. “…and will not speak the truth: They have taught their tongue to speak lies…” : This is the key part. The people actively lie. They've learned to lie and are using that skill to mislead others. “Taught their tongue to speak lies” means they’ve become accustomed to twisting words and making false claims. “[and] weary themselves to commit iniquity.” : This is a bit more figurative. “Iniquity” means sin or wrongdoing. "Weary themselves to commit iniquity" suggests that they're so focused on lying and deceiving, that they’re becoming consumed by bad behavior – making mistakes, being selfish, etc. They are exhausted by the act of lying. What does this mean for us today? This verse is a serious warning about the potential for dishonesty and moral decay. It suggests: A Lack of Trust: If people consistently lie to each other, it erodes trust in relationships and communities. Moral Decline: It points towards a broader trend where people prioritize their own gain over honesty and integrity. Societal Problems: This verse could be interpreted as a call for repentance and a focus on rebuilding a society based on truth and righteousness. In short, the verse warns against the dangers of dishonesty and encourages us to strive for honesty and integrity. Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific historical context (like ancient Judah)? Discuss what this verse might be saying about our own lives today?