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Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.comRobertson Word Pictures - Matthew 5:38 - 5:38
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An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth (ophthalmon anti ophthalmou kai odonta anti odontos). Note anti with the notion of exchange or substitution. The quotation is from Exo 21:24; Deu 19:21; Lev 24:20. Like divorce this jus talionis is a restriction upon unrestrained vengeance. “It limited revenge by fixing an exact compensation for an injury” (McNeile). A money payment is allowed in the Mishna. The law of retaliation exists in Arabia today.