Definition: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from Genesis 2:17. It's a really significant passage about our relationship with God and free will. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse says that God created humans to be distinct from the devil – we are meant to choose good and avoid evil. But, there’s a specific rule: you shouldn't eat from the Tree of Knowledge. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Genesis 2:17” : This is the verse itself - it’s part of a larger story in the beginning of the Bible. "But of the tree..." : This refers to a special tree located in the Garden of Eden, which God created for humans. It's not just any tree; it's the Tree of Knowledge. "...of the knowledge of good and evil…” : This is the key part. The Tree of Knowledge was designed to give humans the ability to understand right from wrong – to know what’s good and what’s bad. It's about making choices that reflect God’s will. "Thou shalt not eat of it…” : This is a direct command! It means you are forbidden from eating fruit from this tree. "...for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.” This is the scary part – it's a warning about the consequences of disobeying God’s rule. “The day” refers to a future time, and "swiftly" means very quickly. “Thou” means you . So, this verse warns that if you eat from this tree, you will die. What does it mean in a broader sense? This verse speaks to several important concepts: Free Will: It highlights our ability to choose between good and evil. We have the freedom to make decisions that reflect God’s character and values. Responsibility: It emphasizes that with free will comes responsibility – we are accountable for the choices we make. God's Sovereignty: It shows that God has complete control over our lives and destiny. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a warning about temptation and disobedience. However, it also speaks to our inherent goodness and the importance of aligning ourselves with God’s plan. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Discuss its significance in a specific context (like the story of Adam and Eve)? Compare it to another important biblical passage?