Definition
To act self-righteously in accusing another person, believing oneself to be blameless.
Origins
From the Bible John 8:7, where Jesus tells the accusers of a woman of adultery that "He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her". All accusers did not do so, and Jesus forgave the woman's sin.
In Context
- "2007, March 10, Mr Gingrich, on the impeachment proceedings in 1999. Reported in The Guardian I knew I couldn't cast the first stone as I knew I had weaknesses. ... (But) as a leader of the government trying to uphold the rule of law I have no choice but to move forward and say you cannot accept perjury in your highest officials."
See Also
- people who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones