Definition: Lest there should be among you man, or woman, or family, or tribe, whose heart turneth away this day from the LORD our God, to go [and] serve the gods of these nations; lest there should be among you a root that beareth gall and wormwood;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Deuteronomy 29:18. It’s a really important verse about staying faithful to God and avoiding falling into a dangerous path. Here's a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse is warning the Israelites (and those leading them) about a potential danger – people who choose to worship other gods instead of worshipping Yahweh (God). It’s saying that if they stray from God, they risk becoming spiritually corrupted and losing their way. Let's unpack it word by word: "Lest there should be among you man, or woman, or family, or tribe…" – This is a general warning about any people within the group being addressed. It’s not just about specific individuals; it's about the possibility of any person choosing to worship other gods. "...whose heart turneth away this day from the LORD our God..." – This is the key part. "Turneth away" means to reject or abandon their faith in God. It’s a conscious choice to not listen to His guidance and will. "...to go [and] serve the gods of these nations;" – This warns against actually worshiating those other gods. It suggests they might be offering sacrifices, making idols, or simply behaving in ways that are contrary to God’s law. "lest there should be among you a root that bear gall and wormwood;" – This is where the metaphor comes in. "Gall and wormwood" are very potent symbols of poison and decay. The verse says that if people choose to worship other gods, they will become like this – corrupted and destructive. “Gall” represents bitterness, resentment, and a negative attitude towards God. “Wormwood” is a poisonous plant, signifying a life full of sin and destruction. It’s a dark and terrible image. In simpler terms: The verse is saying that if the Israelites lose their way and start worshiping other gods, it will lead to spiritual ruin and ultimately, a broken and destructive relationship with God. It's a serious warning about the importance of staying true to your faith and rejecting temptation. Why is this important? This passage reminds us that our relationship with God is crucial. It’s not just about obeying rules; it’s about trusting in God and aligning yourself with His will. It's a call to vigilance – to stay connected to God, to listen for His guidance, and to avoid falling into the dangers of idolatry. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you examples of how this verse applies to modern life? Discuss a specific aspect of the verse (like the importance of obedience)?