In this discourse, the concept of condemnation is understood as a final, irreversibly damaging verdict that extends far beyond merely acknowledging the wrongdoing of actions.

Storming Judgment: A Final Verdict Beyond Deeds

In this discourse, the concept of condemnation is understood as a final, irreversibly damaging verdict that extends far beyond merely acknowledging the wrongdoing of actions. It is not confined to assessing deeds but also encompasses judging a person’s character and intentions. For instance, one quotation contrasts condemnation with indignation:

"Concerning you, you do not understand condemnation as you should. Condemnation and indignation are not the same. Condemnation is a final verdict on a person. For example, 'so-and-so is a thief, a braggart, a debauchee.' Indignation is a demand for truth, a force standing against sin, whoever may have committed it. Indignation can turn into condemnation." (source: link txt)

Thus, condemnation serves as the final evaluation, which, in a religious and moral context, is viewed as not only unjust but also dangerous to the soul and the spiritual state of the condemner. This is further emphasized by another quotation noting:

"Condemnation is passed on a person not for what he has done, but for his character and intentions. Criticizing actions in itself is not a sin, provided it does not arise out of malice and does not carry a final verdict on a person. But it is best to refrain from criticisms altogether, so as not to slip into condemnation, for 'do not walk near fire and soot, lest you get burned and discredited'." (source: link txt)

Furthermore, the material points out that passing condemnation is often a reflection of the opposite quality in the condemner, as such a person may be possessed by a spirit of envy and resentment, leading to ruthless criticism of others, even if he himself is not free from grave sins.

Thus, from a religious and moral perspective, condemnation is not merely a critique of actions but a harsh and final verdict that damages not only the one being condemned but also destroys the soul of the one who condemns. This concept raises questions about the legitimacy of such judgments, warning that the transition from indignation to condemnation can lead to spiritual decay and the loss of true humanity.

Supporting citation(s):
"Concerning you, you do not understand condemnation as you should. Condemnation and indignation are not the same. Condemnation is a final verdict on a person. For example, 'so-and-so is a thief, a braggart, a debauchee.' Indignation is a demand for truth, a force standing against sin, whoever may have committed it. Indignation can turn into condemnation." (source: 1449_7242. txt)

"Condemnation is passed on a person not for what he has done, but for his character and intentions. Criticizing actions in itself is not a sin, provided it does not arise out of malice and does not carry a final verdict on a person. But it is best to refrain from criticisms altogether, so as not to slip into condemnation, for 'do not walk near fire and soot, lest you get burned and discredited'." (source: 1295_6474. txt)

"The sin of condemnation is never without consequence. From the Christian who condemns his neighbors, God’s mercy departs, and at the moment of condemnation, he himself is condemned by God’s just and eternal judgment (Matt. 7:1)." (source: link txt)