Definition: Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this important verse from Matthew 5:21. It’s a really powerful message about responsibility and consequence. Here's a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that killing is dangerous and carries serious risk. It’s like a warning to think carefully before you act, and to be aware of the potential for harm. Let’s look at it piece by piece: “It was said by them of old time…” - This refers back to stories in the Bible about people who killed others – maybe historical figures or accounts from ancient times. It's saying this isn’t just a general rule, but a principle that has been around for a long time. “…Thou shalt not kill…” - This is the core of the verse. It means it’s morally wrong to intentionally harm another person. It’s a fundamental rule taught by God. “And whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment:” - This is where it gets more profound. "Judgment" here refers to God's punishment and ultimate fate for those who commit murder. It means that someone who kills will face consequences, not just because they did it, but because their actions are a sign of a broken relationship with God. So, what does this mean practically? This verse encourages us to: Think before you act: Before you do anything that could harm another person, take a moment to consider if it’s right. Be mindful of consequences: Recognize that your actions have repercussions and that hurting someone can lead to something bad happening. Strive for peace: It's about building relationships based on love, respect, and forgiveness – not on violence or harm. In a nutshell, the verse is a call to be responsible with our actions and to avoid causing harm to others. Important Note: This verse isn’t just about physical killing. It also applies to all kinds of harmful behaviors like lying, stealing, or bullying – anything that harms someone's well-being. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Give some examples of how this principle applies to everyday life?