Definition: He that sendeth a message by the hand of a fool cutteth off the feet, [and] drinketh damage.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this biblical passage together. It’s a really insightful one and gets at a core idea about relationships and responsibility. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that when you deliberately cause harm or destruction through foolishness or carelessness, it has serious consequences. It's not just about physical damage; it’s about damaging relationships and opportunities. Let's unpack the parts: “He that sendeth a message by the hand of a fool…” – This refers to someone who is careless, impulsive, or makes mistakes in their communication. Think of someone who says something without thinking through the consequences. “… cutteth off the feet…” – This is a powerful metaphor. "Cutting off the feet" means stopping someone's path, preventing them from moving forward successfully. It’s about hindering their ability to do good and build things. “[and] drinketh damage.” – This signifies that this action causes significant harm, loss, or damage – both to themselves and those around them. It's like pouring poison into a well. In short: This verse warns against acting carelessly or foolishly when you’re communicating with others. It suggests that your actions have repercussions, and if you cause harm through carelessness, it will lead to negative outcomes. What does this mean practically? It's a reminder for us all: Think before you speak: Consider the potential consequences of what you say or do. Be responsible: Take ownership of your actions and be mindful of how they affect others. Don’t act impulsively: Avoid making hasty decisions that could cause harm. Does this verse apply to everything ? Not necessarily directly. It's a warning about carelessness – it's not saying you can’t communicate. Instead, it encourages thoughtful and deliberate communication. --- To help me tailor my explanation further, could you tell me: What is your primary interest in understanding this verse? (e.g., relationships, leadership, personal responsibility?)