Definition: But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Proverbs 8:36. It's a pretty powerful and thought-provoking statement about our relationship with God and ourselves. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse essentially says that anyone who actively dislikes or hates you is doing a terrible thing to themselves. It suggests that rejecting or hating someone is a deeply destructive path for them. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul” : “Sinneth” means to sin – to do something that goes against God’s will, or to act immorally. "Against me" refers to you, specifically to your actions and thoughts. It's a direct accusation of wrongdoing. “All they that hate me love death” : This is the really striking part. It means that those who actively dislike you are more likely to eventually die or experience a painful end. It’s not just a coincidence; it’s a consequence of their negative feelings towards you. So, what does this mean practically? This verse suggests: We should treat others with kindness and respect. It's important to avoid causing harm or negativity towards others. Don't dwell on negativity: Trying to constantly criticize or hate someone will only lead to suffering for yourself. Forgiveness is crucial: When we forgive someone who has wronged us, it doesn’t mean they are innocent; it means we choose to release our anger and resentment towards them. It’s a way to protect ourselves from further pain. Important Note: This verse isn't about always hating someone. It’s about actively choosing to do so. It speaks to the importance of loving and valuing others, even when they are difficult or hurtful. --- Would you like me to: Explain another Bible passage? Discuss a specific aspect of this verse (like forgiveness)? Give some context about the time it was written?