Matthew 5:38
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 5:38
38 Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:
Chapter Context
Matthew 5 is a ethical teaching chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of hope, holiness, creation. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-48: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it presents Jesus' ethical teaching in the Sermon on the Mount. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 5:38
38 Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:
Analysis
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.
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.
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?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 19:19, 19:21