Definition: Thou shalt rise up before the hoary head, and honour the face of the old man, and fear thy God: I [am] the LORD.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this really important verse from Leviticus! It’s a beautiful message about respect and love. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: “Treat older people with kindness and reverence, and show God your respect.” Let's unpack that a little more: “Thou shalt rise up before the hoary head…” – This is a really poetic way of saying "we should be kind to our elders." "Hoary head” means old, wise, and venerable. It’s about acknowledging their experience and wisdom. “…and honour the face of the old man…” - “Face” here refers to their whole person – their dignity, their character, and their history. It's not just about their age, but about recognizing them as worthy of respect. “…and fear thy God:” – This is the core of the message. It’s saying that we must fear God, which means we should respect Him and His will. It’s a reminder that God is powerful and important, and we need to treat Him with due reverence. “I [am] the LORD.” – This is the key part! “The Lord” is referring to God himself. It’s a declaration of who He is, and that He is the one who deserves our respect and obedience. It's a statement of authority and importance. So, what does this verse mean practically? It means we should: Show them kindness: Be gentle and considerate with those who are older. Respect their wisdom: Value their experience and knowledge. Treat them with dignity: Avoid treating them as less than worthy. Recognize God’s presence: Remember that God is powerful and important, and we should honor Him in our lives. Why is this important? This verse reminds us that we are all made in God's image. We have a responsibility to treat others with respect, especially those who are older or have more experience. It’s about acknowledging their value and honoring the divine. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Leviticus? Discuss what this verse might mean in the context of modern society?