Definition: Cursed [be] he that taketh reward to slay an innocent person. And all the people shall say, Amen.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Deuteronomy 27:25. It’s a really important and somewhat unsettling verse with a lot of layers. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse speaks about the consequences of someone deliberately killing an innocent person. It’s essentially saying that someone who does this will be cursed, and the entire community will agree with that curse. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Cursed [be] he that taketh reward to slay an innocent person.” – This is the core of the warning. It's a direct command to actively kill someone who doesn’t deserve it. “Reward” here refers to the consequences, not necessarily a reward for the killer, but more about the negative repercussions of their actions. “And all the people shall say, Amen.” – This is where it gets really significant. It's a prophecy – a prediction about what will happen. It suggests that everyone in the community (the tribes of Israel at the time) will agree with this curse. The word "Amen" simply means “yes” or “certainly.” So, it’s saying that everyone will hear and acknowledge this condemnation. What's the Significance? This verse is a powerful reminder of: The Severity of Sin: It highlights that intentional killing is a deeply serious offense. The Power of Community: It underscores that the community's judgment – their agreement with the curse – has a tangible and lasting impact. It suggests that the community chooses to accept this punishment. Divine Judgment: The verse speaks about God’s justice being served, but it also implies that God is involved in the consequences of human actions. Historical Context (Important!) This verse appears in the context of a dispute between Israel and its neighboring tribes. It was a moment where the tribes were vying for territory and resources. The text describes a situation where one tribe – led by King Benjamin – plotted to kill a young man who was perceived as a threat. God, through this verse, chose to punish that tribe, resulting in this curse. In short, Deuteronomy 27:25 is a dramatic warning about the dangers of violence and the importance of protecting innocent lives. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Discuss its relevance to modern-day society or biblical themes?