What Does "an Eye for an Eye? Mean? - Jesus Corrects a Wrong Idea

Jesus knew that some had misinterpreted the rule for "an eye for an eye."  He corrected them when he said: "You heard that it was said: "Eye for an eye and tooth for a tooth.' However, I say to you:  Do not resist the one who is wicked, but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the others also to him." - MATTHEW 5:38, 39. 

Note: Jesus' expression "You heard that it was said." He was apparently referring to some Jewish religious leaders who taught retaliation.  Bible scholar Adam Clarke noted:  "It seems that the Jews had made this law [an eye for an eye] . . .a ground for authorizing private resentments, and all  the excesses committed by a vindictive spirit." By encouraging vindictiveness, those religious leaders distorted the intent of God's Law. - MARK 7:13,.

In contrast, Jesus emphasized that love is the dominant spirit of God's Law.  He said" "You must love Jehovah your God . . . This is the greatest and first commandment.  The second, like it, is this: 'You must love your neighbor as yourself.'  On these two commandments the whole Law hangs." (Matthew 22:37-40) Jesus taught that love, not vindictiveness, would identify his true followers. - JOHN 13:34, 35.

Next time: What is the Lake of Fire?  Is It the Same as Hell or Gehenna? 

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