Definition: A man that beareth false witness against his neighbour [is] a maul, and a sword, and a sharp arrow.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible verse – Proverbs 25:18 – piece by piece. It’s a pretty serious warning about the dangers of lying. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes lying as incredibly dangerous and destructive. It’s not just about being caught; it’s about causing significant harm to someone else. Let's unpack each part: “A man that beareth false witness” : "Bearing false witness" means saying or doing something that isn’t true, when you know it is untrue. It’s essentially speaking falsely against someone. “…against his neighbour…” : This focuses on a specific person – your neighbor. It’s not just lying to strangers; it's lying to someone you have a relationship with, someone you trust, and who is in a position of authority or respect. “[is] a maul, and a sword, and a sharp arrow.” : This is the most powerful part – it compares lying to these three things: Maul: A maul is a heavy tool used for chopping wood. It’s blunt and destructive, causing harm and pain. Lying is like that - it can hurt people deeply. Sword: A sword is a weapon of offense – it's meant to cut and injure. Lying cuts and wounds relationships and trust. Sharp arrow: An arrow is incredibly precise and deadly. Lies are often subtle and unexpected, but they still have the power to cause significant harm because they’re not direct and obvious. So, putting it all together: The verse says that lying against your neighbor – especially with a sharp, destructive intent - is like using a maul, sword, or arrow. It's incredibly harmful and can cause great pain and damage to the person being lied to. It’s a serious warning about the importance of honesty and truthfulness. Why is this important? The Bible often uses imagery like this to show how lying can ruin relationships, erode trust, and lead to conflict. It emphasizes that integrity – speaking truthfully and honestly – is essential for good relationships and a just society. Do you want me to: Explain another part of Proverbs 25? Discuss the broader context of this verse in the Bible?