Definition: Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this famous verse from Matthew 5:43: “Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.” It’s a really important message about how we should treat others. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, the verse is saying: Kindness and compassion are incredibly important. Let's break that down further: “Thou shalt love thy neighbour…” This means to treat everyone with kindness and respect – even those who are difficult or wrong. It’s about treating people as you would want to be treated. It’s not just a nice feeling; it’s a moral obligation. “…and hate thine enemy.” This is the part that gets a little more powerful. It means to not hold onto anger or resentment towards someone who hurts you, even if they hurt you deeply. It's about choosing peace and forgiveness over bitterness. It suggests that we should strive for reconciliation and understanding, even when it’s hard. In essence, the verse encourages us to: Be forgiving: Let go of grudges and resentment. Show compassion: Treat everyone with empathy and consideration. Choose peace over conflict: Don't let negativity ruin your interactions. Why is this important? Jesus says this in the context of a parable – a story meant to teach a lesson. It’s about living out our faith by embodying loving and compassionate behavior, which ultimately leads to a better world for everyone. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Matthew 5? Discuss the meaning of this verse in more detail (perhaps relating it to a specific situation)?