Eye for Eye, Tooth for Tooth

2022-12-13

The phrase “Eye for eye, tooth for tooth” appears (at least) four times in the Scriptures, three of which are in the Old Testament. The concept refers to the punishment fitting the crime. The first case is in Exodus 21:24, for the harm of an unborn baby. The second case is in Leviticus 24:20, where one causes blemish in another man. The third case is in Deuteronomy 19:21, where one punishes a false witness with the punishment he sought on the falsely accused. Whatever harm offenders cause on others, the same will be done to them. Not more, not less. These were the laws of ancient Israel.

Earthly governments were established by God to execute punishment on evildoers to eliminate lawless violence which was evident in the antediluvian period. “Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man” (Genesis 9:6). “For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil” (Romans 13:4).

However, it is not the place of any Christian to dish out vengeance in his or her personal life. This brings us to our fourth reference in the New Testament.

“Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: 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” (Matthew 5:38-39). This is Jesus speaking. Does this come easily for anyone? It won’t. It goes against every grain in the human fiber, and we may very well fail. A few verses later, the Lord says, “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matthew 5:44).

Loving enemies is central to the Christian life. First, it is to be like Christ, because we were His enemies, and He died for us to have eternal life. Second, it may be that love in exchange for hate that will win them over to Jesus Christ.