Definition: Behold, I [am] against them that prophesy false dreams, saith the LORD, and do tell them, and cause my people to err by their lies, and by their lightness; yet I sent them not, nor commanded them: therefore they shall not profit this people at all, saith the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 23:32. It’s a really important and somewhat complex passage about God’s judgment on those who spread false prophecies and leads people astray. Here's a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: God is actively rejecting people who are intentionally deceiving others with lies. He’s saying these deceivers are causing harm and suffering for the people he has chosen to protect. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Jeremiah 23:32 Behold, I [am] against them that prophesy false dreams…” - This is a direct command from God. He's stating that he is opposing those who are speaking in a way that isn’t true or truthful. “False dreams” refers to deceptive promises and interpretations of events. "... saith the LORD..." – This means God speaks directly to us, as if he were speaking to Jeremiah. It's a serious statement from the highest authority. "...and do tell them, and cause my people to err by their lies, and by their lightness." - This is the most crucial part. God is saying that these deceivers must share these false promises with others. “Lightness” refers to misleading or deceptive tactics – they’re not offering genuine truth but rather creating confusion and leading people astray. "...and by their lightness; yet I sent them not, nor commanded them: therefore they shall not profit this people at all, saith the LORD.” - This is the most important part of the verse. It explains why God is rejecting them. Here's what it means: “I sent them not, nor commanded them” : God didn’t directly instruct these people to deceive. He simply allows them to continue their lies and misleading actions. "...therefore they shall not profit this people at all, saith the LORD.” – This means that because of their deceitful actions, these false prophets will not bring any benefit to the people God has chosen to protect. They’ll be causing harm and suffering for those he cares about. It's a way of saying they are actively damaging the people's trust and faith. In simpler terms: God is sending a message that these people are deliberately misleading others with lies, and because of it, they will cause more pain and suffering to those he’s trying to help. He doesn’t directly stop them from speaking, but allows them to continue their deception. Why is this important? This verse speaks to the importance of truth and discernment. It's a warning against: Distinguishing between genuine prophets and deceivers. Being critical of claims that seem too good to be true. Listening carefully and seeking the truth – not just what someone says, but how they say it. Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Provide a relatable example from the Bible (perhaps something like a political leader or religious figure)? Answer any specific questions you have about the meaning of this passage?