Definition: Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that passage from Jude 1:11. It's a really important verse with a lot of meaning, so we’ll go through it step-by-step. Here’s what it says: “Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core.” Let's unpack each part: “Woe unto them!” - This is a strong warning. It’s not just saying “this is bad,” it's expressing deep sadness and disappointment. Think of it like a mournful cry. “They have gone in the way of Cain…” – This refers to a very significant figure in early Jewish history: Cain. Cain was the first human to disobey God, leading to his death. This is a crucial point because Jude connects this to a fundamental problem with humanity. “…and ran greedily after the error of Balaam…” - Balaam was a priest who turned away from God and cursed people for their wickedness. He was a skilled hunter and healer, but he did it out of a desire for reward – something he didn’t have. Jude is saying that these people are pursuing this “error” (a mistake or wrong path) with selfish ambition. “…for reward…” - This highlights the motive behind their actions. They're not doing it out of genuine goodness, but for personal gain – to get something from God. “and perished in the gainsaying of Core.” – This is where it gets really important. “Core” refers to a place of ancient Israel (the land that was promised to Abraham). Perishing means they died. The word "gainsaying" means to be destroyed, diminished, or made less than their former glory. So, this suggests they were consumed by their selfish pursuit and ultimately lost everything – both their souls and their lives. So, putting it all together: Jude is warning believers about a group of people who are pursuing something that’s wrong – seeking rewards instead of following God's will. They are driven by selfishness, greed, and a disregard for what's truly important: their relationship with God and their future in Heaven. This action leads to their downfall, ending in death. Overall Meaning: The verse is a warning against temptation and the dangers of pursuing selfish desires without regard for God’s laws and purpose. It encourages us to remain faithful to God and avoid paths that lead to ruin. Why is this important? This story speaks to the core issue of humanity's fall from grace – our tendency to seek things outside of God, which ultimately leads to suffering and destruction. It’s a reminder to always prioritize God's will above all else. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or theme? Discuss the historical context of this passage?