Definition: Lest there [be] any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse together. It's a really important and slightly dramatic passage from the Bible, and it speaks about our potential future. Here’s what it means in plain language: The Basic Idea: This verse is warning us about the dangers of focusing on things that are fleeting and unimportant – like just one little piece of food. It's saying we shouldn't be tempted to chase something that will ultimately lead us astray. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Hebrews 12:16” : This is the verse itself, found in the book of Hebrews – a letter written to a community of Jewish people facing difficult times. “Lest there be…” : This is a command or warning. It’s saying “Let us not.” “any fornicator…” : This means someone who has committed sexual sins, those who are unholy and morally wrong. “…or profane person…” : This reinforces the idea of wickedness – someone who is dishonorable and doesn't have a good spirit. ”…as Esau…” : This is the key part! Esau was a brother of Jacob (who became Abraham’s father). The Bible describes him as “profane” – meaning he wasn’t worthy or accepted in God’s eyes. “…who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright.” : This is the shocking part. “Birthright” refers to something incredibly important – this could be anything like a position of authority, a special gift, or even a promise. Esau sold his birthright…meaning he traded it away for just one little piece of meat . So, what’s the message? The verse is saying that we can easily fall into temptation and be drawn away from our true purpose in life by things that are fleeting and don't truly fulfill us. It’s a warning against chasing things that aren’t rooted in God's love and righteousness. In a nutshell: Don’t chase after meaningless pleasures or distractions – stay focused on what's truly important: living a righteous life, serving God, and striving for eternal reward. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or figure? Give you some practical ways to avoid falling into temptation like this?