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Lex Talionis



One of the oldest laws in the world is known as “lex talionis” or “equal retaliation.” Oddly enough, this law had a purpose which was to restrict unlimited revenge. This law is found three times in the Old Testament passages of Exodus 21:24, Leviticus 24:20, and Deuteronomy 19:21.

It was understood to be “and eye for an eye” or a “tooth for a tooth” by allowing the law, judges and courts to render the appropriate judgment, restitution and punishment. It was never intended for individual retaliation.

So, if that is the case, then why did Jesus say in Matthew 5:39, “But, I tell you, do not resist an evil person….”? The Greek verb “resist” means “to set one’s self against, to oppose” or most closely means “take legal action against.” Did Jesus really say “don’t” resist? Did he literally mean that? What exactly is he saying here?

At first, it sounds like Jesus is saying we should just stand there and get pummeled physically and mentally by all that these evil people can dish out on us. Everybody knows we must resist injury. Jesus says that after we've been hit on one cheek, we should turn the other. We'll seemingly get killed if we take His advice.

Jesus is, indeed, prescribing a course of action which does not come naturally to us. Thankfully, as Christians, we have the power of the Holy Spirit to help us during these challenging times. Unprovoked assault is never pleasant and it does challenge us with thoughts of retaliation and revenge. Sometimes our first response is for “pay back,” but we must resist and refrain.

Jesus is telling us that the lifestyle of the kingdom of God is more demanding than what the Law of Moses laid down. Jesus is literally saying “Don’t retaliate at all!” Jesus does not want us to harbor a spirit of resentment; if someone does you an injury or puts you to inconvenience, show yourself master of the situation by doing something to the perpetrator’s advantage.  Pray for them. Love them. Offer them forgiveness.

Romans 12:18-21, is pretty clear: “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord. On the contrary: ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.’  Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

Jesus wanted his followers to have an unselfish attitude that willingly follows the way of the cross instead of the attitude of protecting one’s personal rights. They should entrust themselves to God who will one day set all things right.

Jesus proposed a better way – the radical response of love. His standard was not an attack on the necessity for justice. Rather, Jesus was presenting a practical, rational, and holy way to deal with personal conflict and offense.

Yes, sometimes, the law must take precedence where the perpetrator is arrested, fined, goes to jail/prison, or is put on probation and monitored for some time. But, that is why we have Governments and authorities to uphold such laws. The overall “attitude” is to rid ourselves of seeking revenge or retaliation of any kind on our own.

By the way, Jesus did practice what he preached. In fact, he led by example. Jesus literally turned the other cheek, handed over His garments and walked the extra mile, even all the way up to Mount Calvary to be crucified (Luke Chapters 22 and 23).

Jesus is literally calling us to make a U-turn and live a radically different lifestyle. Agape love. We show unconditional love for everyone including those who are evil. Following Jesus is not just a modification of a worldly life, but an utterly new way to live. Will you decide to be a Christian on Jesus' terms - not as other people are, not as you want, but as He wills? Then practice a life that does not resist those who are evil.

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