Definition: Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 18:5. It’s a really interesting and complex passage about compassion and the potential for taking action – but it’s often misinterpreted! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: The speaker (who we don't know exactly) is feeling frustrated and upset by a widow who keeps coming to them. They are experiencing suffering because of her presence. Let’s unpack the parts: “Yet because this widow troubles me…” : This means the speaker is genuinely bothered, annoyed, or even angry by the widow's repeated requests and visits. It's not just a minor annoyance; it’s something that feels like a burden. “…I will avenge her…” : This suggests the speaker wants to do something – to punish or get even with the widow. This is where the tricky part comes in. “lest by her continual coming she weary me.” : This is the crucial part. The speaker isn’t necessarily trying to hurt the widow. Instead, they're worried that her constant presence will exhaust them. "Weary" means tired and depleted of energy – both physically and emotionally. So, what does this mean practically? The verse is suggesting a tension between: Compassion: The speaker feels sympathy for the widow’s situation and wants to help her. Self-preservation: They're concerned about their own well-being – that continuing to deal with this constant demand will be draining and upsetting. It’s a classic example of Jesus teaching us to prioritize our own well-being over immediate action. It emphasizes the importance of not reacting impulsively without considering the consequences for ourselves. Important Note: The verse is often debated, and there's some nuance to it that scholars have explored. Some interpretations suggest that the speaker’s concern isn’t about revenge but about protecting their own emotional energy. In short, this verse is a reminder to be mindful of our own needs and not get so caught up in reacting to others that we risk running ourselves out of steam. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the scripture? Discuss the context of this passage within the larger story of Jesus' teachings?