In many discussions about justice and morality, the phrase “an eye for an eye” often arises as a foundational principle in the Bible. This concept, rooted in ancient legal codes, calls for a balance in retribution and encourages fair consequences for wrongdoing. It serves as a reminder of the importance of justice, while also prompting deeper reflections on mercy and forgiveness.
As we explore the significant verses surrounding this principle, we will uncover a wealth of wisdom that speaks to our understanding of justice in the modern world. These scriptures encourage us to examine our responses to injustice and highlight the balance between accountability and compassion that is vital in our lives and communities.
Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.
Fracture for fracture, eye for eye, tooth for tooth; as he has caused a blemish in a man, so shall it be done to him.
Your eye shall not pity; life shall be for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.
You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’
Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, Vengeance is Mine, I will repay, says the Lord.
But I say to you who hear: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you.
Not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.
Do not say, I will do to him just as he has done to me; I will render to the man according to his work.
Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.
Do not say, I will recompense evil; wait for the LORD, and He will save you.
But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.
If you come across your enemy’s ox or donkey wandering off, be sure to return it.
For the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
Whoever rewards evil for good, evil will not depart from his house.
And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.
He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?
Say to those who are fearful-hearted, “Be strong, do not fear! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God; He will come and save you.”
Bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.
For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.
The merciful man does good for his own soul, but he who is cruel troubles his own flesh.
Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are, who judge; for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things.
He who says he is in the light, and hates his brother, is in darkness until now.
Judge not, that you be not judged.
See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.
For we know Him who said, Vengeance is Mine, I will repay, says the Lord.
And shall God not avenge His own elect who cry out day and night to Him, though He bears long with them?
And Jehu the son of Hanani the seer went out to meet him, and said to King Jehoshaphat, Should you help the wicked and love those who hate the LORD? Therefore the wrath of the LORD is upon you.
But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.
Do they not go astray who devise evil? But mercy and truth belong to those who devise good.
But He turned and rebuked them, and said, You do not know what manner of spirit you are of.
Famous and Strong Quotes about what says an eye for an eye
An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind.
Returning violence for violence multiplies violence, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars.
Hatred does not cease by hatred, but only by love; this is the eternal rule.
Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding.
The quality of mercy is not strained; it droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven.
Seeking Wisdom in Justice and Forgiveness
Dear Lord,
In Your infinite wisdom, You have taught us about justice and mercy. We reflect on the words, “an eye for an eye,” and seek to understand their true meaning in our lives. Help us to approach conflict with a heart willing to forgive rather than retaliate.
Guide us in our decisions, granting us the discernment to weigh justice and grace. When we feel wronged, inspire us to choose love over vengeance. May we strive to be peacemakers, creating harmony in our communities.
Lord, let us remember that we are all fallible, and through Your grace, we find redemption. Teach us to turn the other cheek and embody Your love, so that we may reflect Your light in a world often marred by bitterness.
In Jesus’ name, we pray,
Amen.