What was the purpose of the "eye for an eye" rule?

 The "eye for an eye" rule did not authorize or sanction vigilante justice. Rather, it helped anointed judges to impose punishments that were appropriate, being neither too harsh nor too lenient.

The rule also served as a deterrent to any who would intentionally harm others or scheme to do so. "Those who remain [those who observed God's justice being carried out] will hear and be afraid, "explained the Law, "and they will never again do anything bad like this among you." - DEUTERONOMY 19:20. 

Next time: Does the "eye for an eye" rule apply to Christians?

From the jw.org publications