The principle of «eye for an eye» is found in several places in the Bible:
- Exodus 21:24
- Leviticus 24:20
- Deuteronomy 19:21
Exodus 21:24
Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot,
Exodus 21:24
Leviticus 24:20
Breach for breach, eye for eye, tooth for tooth: as he hath caused a blemish in a man, so shall it be done to him again.
Leviticus 24:20
Deuteronomy 19:21
And thine eye shall not pity; but life shall go for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.
Deuteronomy 19:21
What teaching does the Bible leave us about the principle «an eye for an eye»
The teaching of «an eye for an eye» in the Bible, found in verses like Exodus 21:24, Leviticus 24:20, and Deuteronomy 19:21, is one that has often been discussed and debated among believers. Initially, this principle might seem harsh, but it’s important to understand its context and the intention behind it in the times of the Old Testament. This teaching was part of what is known as the Law of Moses, a set of rules given by God to guide the Israelites in justice and societal living.
At its core, «an eye for an eye» aimed to ensure that punishment for a crime was fair and proportional to the offense. It was a way to regulate justice, preventing excessive punishment or personal vengeance. The idea was that the punishment should fit the crime, no more and no less, to maintain a balance and prevent the escalation of violence. It helped the people of that time understand the seriousness of their actions and the direct consequences they would bring.
Moreover, this rule served as a guideline for judges of the time, helping them to administer justice in a measured and consistent way. It was about maintaining order and fairness in a society where personal retaliation could easily lead to ongoing feuds and greater injustice. God’s intention was not to promote violence but rather to limit it, to control human tendencies towards overreaction.
However, when we move to the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament, there is a significant shift in how we are instructed to handle offenses. In Matthew 5:38-39, Jesus revisits this ancient rule and says, «You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.» Here, Jesus introduces a principle of non-retaliation and emphasizes mercy over strict justice. He teaches us to respond to wrongdoing with a spirit of forgiveness and peace, not taking revenge.
This teaching from Jesus does not abolish the law but fulfills it by elevating our understanding from merely following rules to adopting a heart of compassion and grace. As followers who respect and fear God, we are called not just to adhere to the letter of the law but to embrace the spirit of love and forgiveness that Jesus demonstrated.
Therefore, while «an eye for an eye» teaches about justice and the need for a proportional response, as believers under the New Covenant, we are encouraged to respond to wrongs with forgiveness and love, reflecting the heart of God who forgives us much. This is a testament to the depth of transformation that the Gospel seeks in each of us, moving from strict justice to redemptive grace.