Cast/Throw the First Stone, To
Definition:
To be quick to attack someone or something. The term is biblically rooted and suggests that accusers should first consider their own faults before criticizing others.
Related Expressions:
- People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones.
- Those without sin cast the first stone.
- Judge not, lest ye be judged.
- Pot calling the kettle black.
Synonyms:
- Hypocritically accuse
- Point the finger
- Play the blame game
Antonyms:
- Withhold judgment
- Look in the mirror
- Take the high road
Humor-Filled Quote:
- “Remember, when you point one finger at someone, three are pointing back at you. And a thumb? Well, it’s just confused.” – Anon E. Mous
Literary References:
- To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee (Atticus Finch’s unwavering stance on moral integrity)
- The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne (A profound exploration of sin and justice)
Songs with Similar Themes:
- “Man in the Mirror” by Michael Jackson (Be the change you want to see)
- “Let It Be” by The Beatles (Let go of judgment and focus on love)
Movies with Related Concepts:
- The Crucible (1957) directed by Raymond Rouleau – Hysteria and wrongful accusations in Salem.
- Doubt (2008) directed by John Patrick Shanley – The thin line between certainty and suspicion.
Inspirational Thought:
Before wishing to cast a stone, ensure one’s own hands are devoid of dirt—or risk shattering one’s own glass sanctuary.
### Which teaching does "cast the first stone" criticize?
- [ ] The joy of throwing rocks at lakes
- [ ] Reacting quickly to new opportunities
- [x] Judging others without self-reflection
- [ ] Believing in fairy tales
> **Explanation:** It criticizes the tendency to judge others without first examining our own flaws.
### Which related expression warns against hypocrisy?
- [ ] Bite the hand that feeds you
- [ ] Don't count your chickens before they hatch
- [x] People who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones
- [ ] Cry over spilled milk
> **Explanation:** "People who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones" warns against criticizing others when you are equally vulnerable.
### True or False: 'Cast the first stone' has a playful, positive connotation.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** False. The term warns against the judgment and is often used to point out hypocrisy.
