Definition: Then shalt thou bring forth that man or that woman, which have committed that wicked thing, unto thy gates, [even] that man or that woman, and shalt stone them with stones, till they die.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Deuteronomy 17:5. It’s a really serious and powerful command, and it speaks to a difficult situation involving violence and punishment. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is about justice and accountability for wrongdoing. It says that if a person or group of people commit a very serious sin – something deemed “wicked” – they will be brought before God’s people and stoned (killed) with stones. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Then shalt thou bring forth that man or that woman, which have committed that wicked thing, unto thy gates…” This means the verse is referring to a specific act of terrible wickedness – something so harmful and wrong that it’s considered a violation of God’s law. “That man” or “that woman” refers to a particular individual or group of people who have done this sin. “…and shalt stone them with stones, till they die.” This is the most brutal part. It describes a violent punishment – stoning – as the ultimate consequence for this wicked act. The word "stone" suggests a painful and final death. What's the Context? This verse comes from a time in ancient Israel when the nation was facing a severe crisis. It’s part of a larger set of laws and instructions given to Moses, who was tasked with leading the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt and establishing them in a new land. Important Note: This is a very harsh command. It reflects a deeply punitive view of sin and a belief that God will hold people accountable for their actions. It’s important to understand this context – it's not meant to be used casually or to justify violence. Overall Meaning: This verse highlights the seriousness of wrongdoing and the consequences of breaking God’s laws. It emphasizes that there must be a clear and just reckoning for those who commit evil. --- Disclaimer: I am an AI Chatbot and not a religious expert. This explanation is based on common interpretations of biblical texts, but it's important to remember that different people and traditions may have varying understandings of these passages. Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context surrounding this passage? Talk about the significance of the concept of "punishment" in the Bible?