Matthew 5:38
Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:
Original Language Analysis
ὅτι
that
G3754
ὅτι
that
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
2 of 10
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
ὀφθαλμοῦ
An eye
G3788
ὀφθαλμοῦ
An eye
Strong's:
G3788
Word #:
4 of 10
the eye (literally or figuratively); by implication, vision; figuratively, envy (from the jealous side-glance)
ἀντὶ
for
G473
ἀντὶ
for
Strong's:
G473
Word #:
5 of 10
opposite, i.e., instead or because of (rarely in addition to)
ὀφθαλμοῦ
An eye
G3788
ὀφθαλμοῦ
An eye
Strong's:
G3788
Word #:
6 of 10
the eye (literally or figuratively); by implication, vision; figuratively, envy (from the jealous side-glance)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
7 of 10
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Historical Context
The 'eye for eye' law (Exodus 21:24) was actually a limitation on vengeance in ancient cultures where family feuds escalated endlessly. It established proportional justice. But Jesus calls His disciples to transcend even just retaliation, choosing to absorb evil rather than return it.
Questions for Reflection
- How does insisting on your rights prevent you from showing Christ-like grace?
- When has someone's willingness to absorb wrong rather than retaliate impacted you powerfully?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The lex talionis (law of retaliation) was a just principle limiting vengeance to proportional response—only an eye for an eye, not escalating violence. But Jesus calls His followers to go beyond justice to grace, beyond fair treatment to sacrificial love, beyond rights to mercy.