Definition: Cursed [be] he that lieth with his sister, the daughter of his father, or the daughter of his mother. And all the people shall say, Amen.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Deuteronomy 27:22. It’s a really interesting and somewhat unsettling passage about betrayal and consequences. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a situation where someone who is close to a powerful person – like a king or leader – lies and betrays them. The consequence is that everyone involved will agree with this lie, making it seem true. It’s essentially a way of saying, “If anyone lies about this person, they'll all believe it.” Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Deuteronomy 27:22 Cursed [be] he that lieth with his sister, the daughter of his father, or the daughter of his mother.” – This is a dramatic and somewhat poetic way of saying someone is lying. “Cursed” implies something bad will happen to them. It's not just a simple lie; it’s a deliberate deception. “And all the people shall say, Amen.” – This is the crucial part. It means that everyone who hears this verse will agree with it. The word "Amen" in Hebrew means “yes” or “certainly,” so everyone essentially says “Yes, this is true.” It’s a collective agreement that confirms the lie. What's the Context? This verse comes from the Old Testament and is part of a larger story about a king named Solomon. He was trying to establish a strong and just kingdom. However, his brother, Bildad, plotted against him. He tricked Solomon into agreeing with a false claim about his death, leading to a huge crisis. This verse describes the fallout – the entire people essentially confirming the lie through their agreement. Why is this important? This verse highlights several important themes: Trust and Honesty: It reminds us that we should always trust what others say and be honest with each other. The Danger of Deception: It warns against lying, as it has serious consequences. The Power of Agreement: It shows how easily people can be misled when they agree with something that isn't true. In short, this verse is a warning about the dangers of betrayal and the importance of truthfulness. --- Do you want me to explain anything in more detail? Perhaps you’d like me to: Discuss the historical context? Explain the symbolism behind the "cursed" aspect?