Matthew 5:38
“Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.”
Context:In this verse, Jesus is addressing a common understanding of justice that was prevalent during his time. The phrase “an eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth” is known as the principle of lex talionis, which means “law of retaliation” or “law of retribution.” This principle was found in the Old Testament, specifically in Exodus 21:24, Leviticus 24:20, and Deuteronomy 19:21.
The idea behind this principle was to ensure that punishments were proportional to the crimes committed, preventing excessive retaliation. It aimed to establish a just and fair system where the punishment corresponded to the harm inflicted. However, this principle was often misinterpreted and used as justification for personal vengeance or escalating cycles of violence.
Jesus’ Teaching:Now, let’s continue with the following verses in Matthew 5:39-42 to gain a deeper understanding:
“But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also. And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain. Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away.”
In these verses, Jesus presents a radical shift in the understanding of justice and personal response to harm. He is teaching his disciples about a higher standard of righteousness that goes beyond the law of retaliation. Rather than seeking revenge or escalating conflicts, Jesus encourages his followers to respond with love, forgiveness, and selflessness.
Turning the other cheek when someone strikes you is a powerful metaphorical gesture that challenges the natural inclination to retaliate. It demonstrates a willingness to endure mistreatment and respond with non-violence, seeking peace and reconciliation instead. Jesus is advocating for a mindset of humility and a refusal to repay evil with evil.
Similarly, the idea of giving one’s coat and cloak to those who sue or demand from them goes against the instinct to hold onto personal possessions and seek material gain. It promotes a spirit of generosity, going above and beyond what is expected, and prioritizing the well-being of others over personal possessions.
Jesus also speaks about going the extra mile and freely giving to those in need. This highlights the importance of going beyond the minimum requirements, showing kindness and compassion even in challenging circumstances. Jesus encourages his followers to have a generous heart, always ready to help and support others.
