Cast the first stone.
Cast the first stone.
Meaning in plain English
The phrase describes being first to cast a stone. In the supplied reading, it concerns initiating blame, criticism or punishment.
Example
A reader asks whether a criticism is justified before joining a rush to blame someone.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The fragment gives an action without the fuller condition or context sometimes associated with the image. A responsible explanation should not invent the missing wording or treat the phrase as an instruction to attack. A useful discussion asks what evidence and responsibility support initiating an accusation.
When to use it
Use it to examine initiating blame with evidence and context retained.
Keep in mind
The fragment supplies no permission for violence or proof that an accusation is justified.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-05. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Source
- Contributor-provided proverb reference
Supplied reference A; unit 444; PDF page 66
Reuse and collection notes ↗ - Attribution confidence
- traditional · supplied collection
Preserved as printed; independently unverified. - Historical coordinate
- Undated
No reliable date supplied by the collection. - Rights & edition
- Contributor-confirmed reuse permission
Translations and rights may differ elsewhere.
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