Definition: Then said Paul, I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 23:5. It's a really important and slightly complex passage about Paul’s conscience and his commitment to truth. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: Paul is admitting he was wrong about something he said earlier – that he believed the high priest was responsible for a specific act. He’s saying, “I wasn't right; I need to correct myself.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Then said Paul, I wist not, brethren…” - This is a bit tricky. "Wist not" means he didn't intend to do something. He was regretting his words. "...that he was the high priest:" - Paul is talking about a past situation where he made a statement that he believes caused harm or wrongdoing. “for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.” – This is the crucial part! It’s a direct quote from the Old Testament (specifically, Deuteronomy 6:18). This verse tells us that we are forbidden to speak negatively about anyone in power – especially those who govern or lead people. Putting it all together: Paul acknowledges that he made a mistake and is regretting it. He’s reminding himself of a rule established in the Bible, saying “Don't speak poorly of those in authority.” Why is this important? This verse highlights several important themes: Honesty & Integrity: It emphasizes the importance of being truthful and speaking truthfully about what you know. Responsibility: It shows that we all have a responsibility to be accountable for our words and actions, especially when they could affect others. Moral Compass: It reminds us of a higher standard – a moral compass that guides our behavior and prevents us from doing harm. In short, Paul is saying he needs to take responsibility for his past words and strive to be a better person. --- Do you want me to explain any of these concepts further? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context of the verse in Acts 23? Discuss the significance of this passage within the larger story of Paul’s life and ministry?