Definition: Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 23:29. It’s a really powerful and important verse that points to a significant shift in how people were treated within Jesus's time. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is saying that the people who were previously following the rules of the Pharisees and scribes (religious leaders) are now acting like they’re destroying the memories and legacies of those who died. They're essentially burying the important messages and teachings of the past. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Woe unto you…” : This is a very serious phrase, meaning “it is a misfortune to you” or “it is a sorrow for you.” It’s not a gentle warning; it's a statement of judgment. “…scribes and Pharisees…” : These were the religious leaders of Jesus’s time – they read the law, performed rituals, and interpreted scripture. They were seen as very important in maintaining tradition and upholding rules. “because ye build the tombs of the prophets…” : This is the key part. "Prophets" means people who spoke truth and delivered messages from God. Jesus is saying that these same people are burying or destroying the messages, teachings, and wisdom passed down by those prophets before them. They’re essentially erasing the past! “…and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous…” : "Sepulcher" means a burial place. Jesus is saying that these people are also acting like they are protecting or celebrating the lives of those who died – particularly those who were considered righteous and important in their time. They're giving them special attention and making them seem more valuable than they truly are. So, what’s the message? Jesus is criticizing this group because they are: Rejecting God’s Word: They're ignoring or dismissing the true meaning of God's teachings. Focusing on superficial rules: They’re prioritizing tradition and ritual over genuine faith and understanding. Hiding the truth: They're preventing people from receiving and sharing the important messages of the past. In essence, it’s a condemnation of hypocrisy – pretending to be righteous while actually acting in ways that are contrary to true faith. Why is this significant? This verse speaks to a fundamental shift in how Jesus viewed people. He wasn't interested in simply following rules; he wanted to show people the true meaning of God’s word and the importance of living a life rooted in love and truth. It sets the stage for Jesus’s teachings about repentance, forgiveness, and a new beginning. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with an example? Discuss what this verse might be related to in the context of the New Testament? Answer any specific questions you have about it?