Definition: He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this important verse from 1 John 2:9. It's a really powerful message about love and truth. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse essentially says that if someone is saying they are following God’s light but actively hates their brother, they are in a state of darkness – even now. Let’s unpack the parts: “He who saith he is in the light…” - This refers to someone who claims to be living according to God's will and principles. They are saying they are righteous, good, and following His path. “…and hateth his brother…” – This means they actively dislike or are hostile towards someone who shares their beliefs, values, or way of life. It’s a strong feeling of animosity. “Is in darkness even now.” - This is the crucial part. It's not just about a temporary disagreement; it suggests that this negativity and hatred are ongoing . It implies a deep-seated problem that hasn't been resolved. What does this mean practically? This verse is a warning – it’s suggesting that hypocrisy can be dangerous. It highlights the importance of: Truthfulness: Being honest with yourself and others about your beliefs is vital. Love & Reconciliation: True Christians (and those who are genuinely seeking God) should love their brothers, even when they disagree. Forgiveness: If someone is actively hurting you, it’s important to choose forgiveness – not just for their sake, but for your own spiritual well-being. In short, this verse emphasizes that genuine faith isn't about being right all the time; it's about loving others with a pure and unyielding heart. Resources if you want to learn more: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/1John29](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/1John29) - This has a good explanation and context for the verse. The Bible Project: [https://www.thebibleproject.com/1john29/](https://www.thebibleproject.com/1john29/) - They offer visual and accessible explanations of biblical passages. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Give an example of how this verse might be applied in real life?