Definition:
Ill intent refers to the deliberate desire or plan to cause harm, mischief, or wrongdoing to others. It is characterized by malicious motives and a heart inclined towards evil actions. In the biblical context, ill intent is often associated with sin, wickedness, and the corruption of the human heart.

Biblical References and Themes:

1. The Heart's Condition:
The Bible frequently addresses the condition of the human heart as the source of ill intent. Jeremiah 17:9 states, "The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?" This verse highlights the inherent deceitfulness and wickedness that can reside within the human heart, leading to ill intentions.

2. Cain and Abel:
The account of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4 illustrates the destructive power of ill intent. Cain harbored jealousy and anger towards his brother Abel, which ultimately led to murder. Genesis 4:7 warns, "If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you refuse to do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires you, but you must master it." This passage underscores the need to master sinful desires and ill intentions.

3. The Ten Commandments:
The Ten Commandments, found in Exodus 20, provide a moral framework that condemns ill intent. Commandments such as "You shall not murder," "You shall not commit adultery," and "You shall not covet" (Exodus 20:13-17) address actions that often stem from malicious intentions.

4. Jesus' Teachings:
Jesus emphasized the importance of the heart's intentions in His teachings. In Matthew 5:21-22 , He expands on the commandment against murder by addressing anger and ill will: "You have heard that it was said to the ancients, 'Do not murder,' and 'Anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment." Jesus highlights that ill intent, even in the form of anger, is subject to divine judgment.

5. The Pharisees and Hypocrisy:
Jesus often rebuked the Pharisees for their hypocrisy and ill intent. In Matthew 23:27-28 , He declares, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men's bones and every kind of impurity. In the same way, on the outside you appear to be righteous, but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness." This passage illustrates how ill intent can be masked by outward appearances of righteousness.

6. The Role of Satan:
Satan is often depicted as the instigator of ill intent, seeking to lead people away from God. In John 8:44 , Jesus describes Satan as "a murderer from the beginning" and "the father of lies," indicating his role in fostering deceit and malice.

7. Repentance and Transformation:
The Bible offers hope for those with ill intent through repentance and transformation. Ezekiel 36:26 promises, "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh." This transformation is made possible through faith in Jesus Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit.

Practical Implications:

Believers are called to examine their hearts and motives, seeking to align them with God's will. Proverbs 4:23 advises, "Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life." Christians are encouraged to cultivate hearts of love, kindness, and integrity, rejecting ill intent and embracing the fruits of the Spirit as outlined in Galatians 5:22-23.