Definition: One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Deuteronomy 19:15. It’s a really important and powerful statement about justice and responsibility. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse essentially says that everyone is responsible for their actions , and there should be multiple people involved when something bad happens to someone else – especially if it involves a serious offense. It’s a strong warning against taking the law lying down. Let's look at it piece by piece: “One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin…” This means that anyone can be held accountable for their actions, no matter how big or small. It’s about preventing injustice and covering up wrongdoing. Think of it like this: you can't just shrug your shoulders and say "it wasn't me." "...in any sin that he sinneth:" This is a crucial part. “Sinneth” means to do something wrong, to commit an offense. This verse emphasizes that everyone has the potential to commit a sin. It’s about acknowledging everyone’s capacity for wrongdoing. “At the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses…” This is where it gets really serious. When a crime goes wrong – or when there's a situation that needs a formal judgment – God wants multiple people to witness and confirm what happened. It’s like having an independent review process. “…shall the matter be established.” This means that if multiple witnesses agree on the truth, it will be proven correct. It’s about ensuring justice is served and that wrongdoing isn't hidden or ignored. The Big Picture – What it Means for Us: This verse is a reminder of God's judgment and His desire to protect people from harm. It suggests: Accountability: We are all accountable for our choices, even if we don’t always feel like we are. Responsibility: We have a responsibility to be righteous and to avoid causing harm. Justice: God wants to ensure that wrongs are addressed fairly and that justice is served. In essence, it's a call to live with integrity, to be mindful of our actions, and to trust in God’s judgment when things go wrong. --- Disclaimer: I am an AI Chatbot and not a religious advisor. This explanation is based on interpretations of scripture and is intended for informational purposes only. If you are struggling with difficult emotions or considering harmful thoughts, please reach out for support. Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this verse within the larger story of Deuteronomy?