Definition: A false witness shall not be unpunished, and [he that] speaketh lies shall perish.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this important Bible passage together. It’s a really powerful warning about the consequences of dishonesty. Here’s what it means in simple terms: “A false witness shall not be unpunished, and [he that] speaks lies shall perish.” Let’s unpack each part: “A false witness shall not be unpunished…” This is saying that someone who lies or deliberately tries to mislead others will never escape the consequences of their actions. It's like a stain – it just won't disappear. They can’t get away with anything because they’ve broken trust and acted against justice. “[He that] speaks lies shall perish.” This is the key part. “Perish” means to die, to be lost, or to be completely destroyed. It signifies a loss of everything – your reputation, your standing in the community, even your soul. Speaking lies is seen as a very serious thing because it damages relationships and can cause harm to others. So, putting it all together: This verse essentially means that lying always has a negative outcome. It's bad for you, and it’s likely to lead to something terrible. Why is this important? It’s a reminder of the importance of honesty and truthfulness. It encourages us to: Speak truthfully: Always try your best to be honest in what you say. Protect others: Don't speak lies that could hurt or harm someone else. Be trustworthy: Being reliable and truthful builds trust, which is a valuable thing. In short, Proverbs 19:9 is a strong message about the serious consequences of dishonesty. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse that I can help you with? For example, are you wondering: What kind of lies are considered harmful in this context? How does it relate to our own lives?