Book of Matthew - Chapter 5 - Verse 38

When Jesus speaks about the law of retaliation in the verse "Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth," He is referencing the Old Testament law found in Exodus 21:24-25 and Leviticus 24:20-21. This law, known as the law of retaliation or lex talionis, was meant to ensure that punishment was proportional to the crime committed. It was a way to limit excessive revenge by stipulating that the punishment should match the offense - an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.

However, Jesus goes on to challenge this concept in the following verses by advocating for a more merciful approach to justice. He teaches His followers to turn the other cheek and to love their enemies, rather than seeking revenge. This shift in perspective highlights the importance of forgiveness, compassion, and reconciliation in the face of conflict. By rejecting the notion of strict retaliation, Jesus encourages a more compassionate and understanding response to wrongdoing.

In this verse, Jesus is addressing a commonly held belief among the Jews, that retribution should be swift and equal. The principle of 'an eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth' comes from the Old Testament law, specifically in Exodus and Leviticus. While this principle was meant to ensure fairness and limit excessive retaliation, Jesus challenges his followers to go beyond mere justice and to embrace a radical ethic of love and forgiveness. He goes on to teach that we should turn the other cheek and love our enemies, rather than seeking revenge. This theological interpretation highlights the importance of mercy, compassion, and reconciliation in our relationships with others. It encourages us to break the cycle of violence and to respond to wrongdoing with grace and love. Through these teachings, Jesus calls us to embody God's love and to reflect his character in our interactions with others.