Definition and Context:
The term "blind guides" is a metaphorical expression used by Jesus Christ to describe religious leaders who are spiritually blind and thus incapable of leading others in the truth. This term is primarily found in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus addresses the scribes and Pharisees.

Biblical References:
The most direct reference to "blind guides" is found in Matthew 23:16, where Jesus says, "Woe to you, blind guides! You say, ‘If anyone swears by the temple, it means nothing; but if anyone swears by the gold of the temple, he is bound by his oath.’" . This passage is part of a series of woes pronounced by Jesus against the religious leaders of His time, criticizing their hypocrisy and misguided teachings.

Characteristics of Blind Guides:
1. Hypocrisy: Blind guides are characterized by their hypocritical behavior. They impose strict rules on others while failing to adhere to the spirit of the law themselves. Jesus highlights this in Matthew 23:23-24, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You pay tithes of mint, dill, and cumin, but you have disregarded the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former. You blind guides! You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel." .

2. Misleading Teachings: Blind guides are those who lead others astray with their teachings. They focus on minor details while neglecting the more important aspects of faith and righteousness. Their teachings are often based on human traditions rather than the Word of God.

3. Spiritual Blindness: The term "blind" signifies a lack of spiritual insight and understanding. Despite their knowledge of the Scriptures, blind guides fail to recognize the true meaning and purpose of God's commandments. This spiritual blindness prevents them from leading others to a genuine relationship with God.

Consequences of Following Blind Guides:
Following blind guides can lead to spiritual ruin. Jesus warns in Matthew 15:14, "Leave them; they are blind guides. If a blind man leads a blind man, both will fall into a pit." . This illustrates the danger of adhering to false teachings and the importance of seeking true spiritual guidance.

Application for Believers:
Believers are encouraged to discern the teachings they follow and ensure they align with the truth of Scripture. The example of the Bereans in Acts 17:11, who examined the Scriptures daily to verify the teachings they received, serves as a model for Christians to avoid being led astray by blind guides.

Conclusion:
The metaphor of "blind guides" serves as a cautionary reminder of the importance of spiritual discernment and the need for leaders who are truly aligned with God's Word. Believers are called to seek guidance from those who demonstrate genuine understanding and adherence to the teachings of Christ.