“DECEIVER”
A false prophet (נביא שקר, Navi Sheker) is someone who claims to have received Divine messages or visions from G-d but, in reality, delivers messages that are not from G-d or intentionally deceives the people with false predictions and teachings. It is considered a serious offense because it leads people away from the true worship of G-d and can result in moral and spiritual corruption within the community.
Scriptures provide specific criteria to identify and warnings against false prophets so that people are not led astray (Deuteronomy 13:1-5, Deuteronomy 18:20-22). All future scripture, prophets, and teachings must align with these criteria:
If someone shows signs and wonders or tells of things to come and they come true, but they tell you to follow a god that your ancestors did not know, then that’s a false prophet.
If a prophet claims to speak in G-d's name but their prediction does not come to pass, then that message was not from G-d. This passage serves as a safeguard against false prophets who might attempt to deceive the people with unfounded claims of Divine revelation.
False prophets may provide guidance or predictions that contradict G-d’s previous commandments or established teachings in scripture. Their messages often lead people away from true service to G-d.
The community is instructed to critically examine the messages and actions of those who claim prophetic authority, ensuring they align with the commands of scripture and the teachings of true prophets. Anyone who speaks against a single command or teaching is a false prophet, and G-d commands the community to not listen to them (or their reasons).
Discerning between true and false prophets requires knowledge of scripture and a deep understanding of G-d's character, commandments, and wisdom.
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