Definition: He that keepeth the commandment keepeth his own soul; [but] he that despiseth his ways shall die.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Proverbs 19:16. It's a really important and somewhat sobering statement about responsibility and consequences. Here’s a simple explanation: The Core Idea: This verse essentially says that someone who diligently follows God’s rules and laws will be blessed, while someone who rejects or disrespects God’s guidance will face ruin. It's a warning about the importance of obedience and integrity. Let's unpack it piece by piece: "He that keepeth the commandment..." – This refers to following God’s rules, laws, and principles. It could mean adhering to religious teachings, ethical guidelines, or simply living a righteous life. "...keepeth his own soul..." - This is key! "Soul" in this context usually means your spirit, your inner self, or your very being. It's about your moral character and how you treat God and others. "[But] he that despiseth his ways..." – This is the crucial part. “Despiseth” means to hate, to disregard, to reject. It’s a deliberate act of disrespecting God's will or guidance. "...shall die." - This is the consequence of rejecting God’s law. It suggests that living a life of defiance and disregard leads to spiritual death – a loss of connection with God and ultimately, eternal separation from Him. In simpler terms: It's like this: Living righteously and following God’s path brings good things – peace, happiness, and blessings – but rejecting Him leads to suffering and destruction. Why is this important? This verse reminds us that our choices have consequences. It encourages us to be responsible for our actions and to live a life of integrity, because those who do so are blessed by God. It’s a call to prioritize obedience and moral living. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the meaning of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific theme (like forgiveness, loyalty, or trust)?