The statement "Judge not, that you be not judged" comes from the Bible, specifically from the Sermon on the Mount, as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 7, verse 1. This teaching is often cited as a fundamental principle of Christian ethics and is attributed to Jesus. Its meaning has been the subject of interpretation and discussion among theologians, scholars, and believers. Here are a few key points to consider: 1. **Avoiding Hypocrisy**: The broader context of this verse includes a warning against hypocritical judgment. Jesus advises people to avoid judging others harshly or self-righteously when they may have their own faults and shortcomings. It's a call to self-examination before passing judgment on others. 2. **Mercy and Forgiveness**: The teaching encourages a spirit of mercy and forgiveness. It suggests that individuals should be willing to extend the same kind of grace, understanding, and forgiveness to others that they hope to receive themselves. 3. **Context Matters**: While this verse is often quoted in isolation, it's important to consider the context of the entire passage. In the following verses, Jesus talks about removing the "log" from one's own eye before attempting to remove the "speck" from someone else's eye. This emphasizes self-improvement and humility. 4. **Spiritual Guidance, Not Condoning Wrong**: Jesus's teaching does not imply that all forms of discernment or accountability are wrong. In other parts of the Bible, Christians are encouraged to judge actions, discern right from wrong, and hold each other accountable within the community. The key is to do so with love and humility. 5. **Contextual Interpretation**: Interpretation may vary based on the particular Christian denomination, personal beliefs, and the historical and cultural context in which the verse is applied. In summary, "Judge not, that you be not judged" is often understood as a call to approach others with humility, love, and a spirit of forgiveness, recognizing our own imperfections. It's a reminder to avoid self-righteous judgment and to focus on self-improvement before assessing others. However, it doesn't negate the need for discernment or accountability within a community or society. Different interpretations and applications of this verse exist within the diverse spectrum of Christian beliefs.