Definition: And thou shalt take no gift: for the gift blindeth the wise, and perverteth the words of the righteous.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 23:8. It’s a really important message about perspective and true worthiness. Here's a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse warns against being overly focused on rewards or praise – especially when it comes to things that aren’t truly genuine or righteous. It suggests we shouldn’t be blinded by the expectation of reward, because that can lead us astray. Let's unpack it word-by-word: “And thou shalt take no gift:” This means don’t be greedy for rewards, blessings, gifts, or praise. Don’t chase after something that isn’t actually earned through good deeds. “…for the gift blindeth the wise:” This is the core of the warning. A "gift" – which could mean a blessing, a reward, or even just good fortune – can be misleading. It can make us think we're better than we really are, and that our worthiness comes from something external rather than from within. It’s like looking at a beautiful picture through rose-tinted glasses – it makes everything look better than it truly is. “…and perverteth the words of the righteous:” This means don't be fooled by false praise or clever arguments. The "righteous" are people who are genuinely living righteously, following God’s laws and principles. But if we’re too focused on appearing righteous – on getting praise – we can easily fall into traps that aren't truly aligned with God’s will. It suggests that those who are trying to manipulate or trick us with their words might be leading us astray. In simpler terms: Don't let the expectation of reward or approval overshadow your genuine goodness and right actions. Stay grounded in your principles, and focus on doing what is truly right, rather than simply seeking praise for it. Why is this important? This verse reminds us that true worthiness comes from within – our love for God and our commitment to His will, not from external rewards or accolades. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of the verse in more detail? Give an example of how this principle applies to real-life situations?