Taking an act of revenge is a sin before God.
Though the scripture mentions an “eye for an eye” multiple times, Christ has ended such laws.
Notwithstanding, we still practice these laws unknowingly.
Sometimes, we get so frustrated with our offenders that we pay them back.
I have had a similar issue with a friend in the past.
It all started more than ten years ago before I was born again.
I had a girlfriend that I loved so much. We were best of friends and truly loved each other.
Then over time, I noticed she was cheating on me. Not once, but many times.
This really hurt the very foundation of my soul.
I said to myself, “If she could hurt me this much without any remorse, She deserves to feel the same way.”
So, I continued in the relationship for years without saying a word.
Then came the d-day.
Immediately, I noticed she was now so interested in the relationship; I broke up.
She was so devastated and lost control of herself.
And sadly, I was so happy that she felt the same way.
She begged for months, but I was just interested in paying her back.
I look back to my past and regret how shamefully I had behaved.
God has accepted us with all our iniquities.
Christ, God’s only begotten son, came to the earth to be humiliated and killed for our sake.
Because of his shame, we now have a hope of salvation.
Therefore, we must forgive our transgressors and let go when they hurt us.
I have put together bible verses about an eye for an eye to encourage you.
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Bible verses about Eye for an Eye
Exodus 21:22
If people are fighting and hit a pregnant woman and she gives birth prematurely[a] but there is no serious injury, the offender must be fined whatever the woman’s husband demands and the court allows.
In the Bible, human life holds immense value. Take Exodus 21:22, a striking depiction of the ‘eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth’ principle. It highlights the consequences of endangering innocents, focusing on pregnant women and their unborn.
Reflect on King David’s story in 2 Samuel 12. This biblical story reflects the ‘eye for an eye’ principle. Nathan, the prophet, exposed David’s sin with Bathsheba and Uriah, resulting in the divine punishment of their child’s death. This story underscores that our actions have equivalent consequences.
This principle is echoed in the modern-day death penalty. A life taken is paid with the offender’s life. The severity of the sentence mirrors the enormity of the crime. The sanctity of life demands it.
Proverbs 6:16-19 reinforces this sanctity. It lists seven things God detests, including shedding innocent blood. This stark warning underscores the gravity of harming others.
Isaiah 1:17 teaches us about justice. It states, ‘Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression…’ This scripture communicates the multifaceted nature of justice: it isn’t just retributive, but preventative and corrective. We’re called to promote fairness and fight oppression.
As Christians today, these verses are a clarion call. They urge us to uphold life’s value and engage with our justice systems. They also motivate us to ensure penalties appropriately match the severity of crimes.
In a nutshell, the principle of ‘an eye for an eye’ goes beyond punishment. It emphasizes the sacredness of life and calls for accountability. It reminds us to act responsibly, respecting the principle of cause and effect.
While it may seem stern, its heart resonates with life preservation, justice promotion, and responsible living. As we unpack this principle, we become advocates for a fair and life-affirming justice system.
Exodus 21:23-25
23 But if there is serious injury, you are to take life for life, 24 eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, 25 burn for burn, wound for wound, bruise for bruise.
“An eye for an eye” is a cardinal law in the Old Testament (Exodus 21:23-25), enforcing justice through exact retribution. Interestingly, in the New Testament, a transformation occurs. The emphasis shifts from revenge to forgiveness. Now, let’s dive deeper into this.
The Old Testament clearly mandates a “like-for-like” justice system. However, Christ’s advent introduced a shift. His teachings leaned towards mercy and God’s role in executing justice.
A clear indication of this is in Romans 12:19, “Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God…”
Another significant verse is 1 Peter 3:9. It reads, “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing…”
This divine mandate calls for a sharp departure from “an eye for an eye” retribution. I consider this a profound evolution in spiritual wisdom.
This shift from retribution to forgiveness, however, is not about dismissing justice. Instead, it’s about promoting love, mercy, and peace over revenge.
We see this vividly in the story of Haman and Mordecai in the book of Esther. Haman’s plot against Mordecai and the Jews ends with him being hung on the same gallows he built for Mordecai.
It’s a classic biblical representation of the “eye for an eye” principle, showcasing that divine justice eventually prevails.
Bringing this concept into our contemporary times, consider the lawsuit culture. It parallels the “eye for an eye” law. If wronged, one sues for damages equivalent to the harm suffered.
Yet, as New Testament believers, we’re guided to extend forgiveness instead.
So, how should we approach conflicts as Christians today? The answer lies in emulating Christ’s teachings. We should prioritize love, mercy, and peace over revenge.
When wronged, we’re encouraged to forgive and let divine justice prevail. This shift from personal vengeance to forgiveness and reliance on God’s justice is paramount.
In a nutshell, from the Old Testament’s “eye for an eye” to the New Testament’s call for forgiveness, there’s a clear transformation.
It’s a journey from strict retribution to loving forgiveness and trust in divine justice. A principle to contemplate and integrate into our daily lives.
Leviticus 24:19-20
Anyone who injures their neighbor is to be injured in the same manner: 20 fracture for fracture, eye for eye, tooth for tooth. The one who has inflicted the injury must suffer the same injury.
In Leviticus 24:19-20, we find an age-old command: “An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.” On the surface, it’s a directive advocating equal retaliation.
But if we dig deeper, we see it’s a yardstick for judges to determine fair punishment. The law was about setting limits to retaliation, not inciting revenge.
Fast forward to the New Testament. Jesus reframes this principle in Matthew 5:38-39, saying, “You have heard it said, ‘An eye for an eye…’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person…”
Jesus introduces a paradigm shift. He turns the law on its head, teaching love instead of retaliation. It’s revolutionary, yes, but it deepens our understanding of the law’s true intent.
Romans 13:10 clarifies this further: “Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.”
How does this apply today? Consider King Ahab and Jezebel from 1 Kings 21. They seized Naboth’s vineyard by having him unjustly killed.
This act of violent retribution led to their eventual downfall. The story is a stern warning about the consequences of harm and a testament to divine justice.
Shifting our gaze to a real-life scenario, imagine a school setting. A child is constantly bullied, teased, and tormented by another. Frustrated, the child retaliates, replicating the very harm inflicted upon him.
The tables are turned, but has justice truly been served? Or is it merely a perpetuation of a painful cycle? The child might feel momentary satisfaction, but it doesn’t resolve the underlying issue or heal the hurt.
What if, instead, the bullied child chose to respond differently, breaking the cycle by showing kindness?
In essence, “Eye for an Eye, Tooth for a Tooth” represents measured justice, not vengeance. However, with Jesus’s teachings, we see an elevated approach. He advocates love as the essence of the law.
Therefore, in our societal interactions, we must strive to foster understanding, compassion, and forgiveness. It’s not just about justice; it’s about love, too.
Leviticus 24:21-22
21 Whoever kills an animal must make restitution, but whoever kills a human being is to be put to death. 22 You are to have the same law for the foreigner and the native-born. I am the Lord your God.’”
The principles of equal justice echo profoundly in Leviticus 24:21-22. Here, the Bible advocates for fairness for all, without prejudice.
The unforgiving servant’s tale, found in Matthew 18:21-35, embodies this principle. Forgiven for a large debt, the servant denies forgiveness for a minor debt owed to him. His punishment reflects his intended punitive actions, highlighting the concept of “an eye for an eye”.
Now, shifting our lens to a real-life setting, let’s consider the equal opportunity laws implemented in many workplaces worldwide.
Just like the servant in the parable, every employee, irrespective of their position or rank, is held to the same standards and faces identical consequences for similar wrongdoings.
This ensures fairness and discourages discrimination – a tangible manifestation of the principle of equal justice exemplified in Leviticus 24:21-22.
Shifting to the New Testament, we see an evolution towards inclusivity. Acts 10:34-35 reveals God’s impartiality and acceptance of all who do right.
Complementing this, Galatians 3:28 emphasizes equality: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” The focus here is not on punitive justice, but divine justice that embraces all.
Such teachings influence the Church’s stance on discrimination. They underline that all are equal in God’s eyes, prompting the Church to champion unity and counter discrimination. The Church, inspired by these teachings, cultivates an atmosphere of acceptance among Christians.
As Christians, we are urged to internalize these scriptures, embracing principles of justice, inclusivity, and love. We’re reminded of God’s equal love for all, regardless of our differences.
This understanding pushes us to promote unity and reject discrimination. Through the principle of “an eye for an eye,” we learn that the focus is not retaliation, but ensuring justice for all.
In short, these scriptures guide us towards an empathetic society, resonating with divine love, equality, and justice. They inspire us to create a world that mirrors these divine teachings.
In my view, each one of us can contribute to this vision and make it a reality.
Leviticus 24:17
‘Anyone who takes the life of a human being is to be put to death.
The phrase “eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth” is deeply rooted in biblical teachings, specifically Leviticus 24:17, which states, “Anyone who kills a person must be put to death.” This law underscores the sanctity of life and the necessity for justice.
Consider the genesis of humanity—Cain and Abel. In Genesis 4, Cain’s envy triggers the first murder. God’s response is immediate.
Cain receives a life of endless wandering, cut off from his beloved land (Genesis 4:10-11). Divine justice is swift, reflecting the principle of retribution. Life was stolen, so life is demanded.
This tale emphasizes life’s sanctity. From the beginning, God deemed life sacred. Violating this resulted in grave consequences.
Leviticus 24:17 doesn’t advocate for vengeance. Instead, it elevates life’s value, marking the unjust taking of life as a grievous act.
Fast forward to our modern era. The principles of justice, so prominent in the Old Testament, still resonate. Look at our legal systems.
A crime, such as robbery, triggers legal consequences. Not for revenge, but to restore social equilibrium disrupted by the act.
The spirit of Leviticus 24:17 lives in these laws. A crime isn’t merely an act against an individual. It disrupts societal harmony, requiring correction. Like divine justice seen in response to Abel’s death, human justice aims to rectify wrongs.
In conclusion, the law of “an eye for an eye” can seem harsh. However, it primarily asserts life’s sacredness, a sentiment I resonate with. Divine and human justice share a goal—to uphold the sanctity of life and preserve societal balance.
By understanding this principle, we can better navigate the intricate paths of justice in today’s world.
Deuteronomy 19:11-12
But if out of hate someone lies in wait, assaults and kills a neighbor, and then flees to one of these cities, 12 the killer shall be sent for by the town elders, be brought back from the city, and be handed over to the avenger of blood to die.
Deuteronomy 19:11-12 presents an ancient law, resonating profoundly even today. This law centers around a term we now call premeditated murder. It paints a stark portrait of justice – an “eye for an eye.”
In this world, justice wasn’t solely retribution. It was about accountability. Actions carried weight. Choices had consequences. This notion finds voice in 1 Kings 2:32, an eye-opening decree on personal responsibility.
Consider the story of Abimelech from the book of Judges. Driven by ambition, he murders his 70 brothers, aiming to be the sole ruler.
Yet, in a twist of poetic justice, Abimelech is later killed by a woman who drops a millstone on his head. The harsh reality of the “eye for an eye” principle takes on a tangible form here.
And what about those who flee after committing such crimes? They would often seek refuge in “sanctuary cities.” But these places were not to serve as a permanent escape.
The goal was to ensure due process, to make sure the accused had a fair hearing before being handed over to the “avenger of blood.”
Fast forward to today. You’ll find the principles from Deuteronomy echo in modern justice systems. Take, for instance, a criminal who meticulously plans and executes a crime.
However, upon being caught, he discovers that the law, much like the “avenger of blood,” waits for him. The parallels are striking.
Yet, we’ve progressed, blending justice with mercy. Despite this evolution, the core essence of Deuteronomy’s law remains relevant. It underscores justice, emphasizes accountability, and advocates for fair trials.
The “eye for an eye” concept continues to mold our understanding of justice. It encourages us to bear the profound responsibility of our actions. We’re reminded of this ancient law as we strive for justice, reflecting on our values and actions.
Despite being centuries old, Deuteronomy’s principles challenge our modern pursuit of fairness, holding a mirror up to our societal norms.
Genesis 9:5
And for your lifeblood, I will surely demand an accounting. I will demand an accounting from every animal. And from each human being, too, I will demand an accounting for the life of another human being.
Genesis 9:5 is a profound declaration that hammers home the sanctity of life in a post-flood world. You see, after the ravages of the great flood, God established a new covenant with Noah. The essence? “From each human, I will demand a reckoning for another human’s life.”
Here, we see an “eye for an eye” principle. It implies a divine reckoning for the act of taking life. It’s not merely an affront to man; it’s an offense against God.
In Numbers 35:33, we read, “Don’t pollute the land… Bloodshed tarnishes it, and atonement can’t be made… except by the one who shed it.” It underlines the correlation between violence and land pollution. Murder is not only a crime against humanity; it also defiles God’s creation.
Consider 2 Samuel 12: God’s retribution is clear. David, Israel’s king, arranges Uriah’s death to marry Bathsheba. God, displeased, decrees, “Your son will die.” David’s child’s death is the grim outcome of his sin, a stark reminder of the divine penalty for spilling innocent blood.
Our modern justice systems echo this principle. Intentional killing can lead to severe punishments, like life imprisonment or capital punishment. This reflects the essence of Genesis 9:5.
Deuteronomy 27:25 further amplifies our duty: “Cursed is the bribe taker who kills an innocent person.” We must all uphold justice and respect life, as commanded by God.
In sum, Genesis 9:5 reminds us of our role in preserving life. The linkage of violence and land pollution highlights our actions’ ripple effects. As God’s image bearers, we’re entrusted to uphold divine principles. Life is sacred, and actions have consequences.
This wisdom continues to resonate through our contemporary justice system, shaping our understanding of justice, morality, and life’s precious value.
Genesis 9:6
6 “Whoever sheds human blood,
by humans shall their blood be shed;
for in the image of God
has God made mankind
Justice is a pillar of every society, and its moral essence is also deeply rooted in the Bible. Genesis 9:6 – “Whoever sheds human blood, by humans shall their blood be shed, for in the image of God has God made mankind” – portrays the principle of retributive justice.
This verse is more than just text. It’s a divine call to respect life, asserting it as sacred and inviolable.
Let’s dive into the biblical narrative to explore this principle. Consider Absalom, who murdered his half-brother, Amnon, to avenge their sister, Tamar. Absalom himself was later killed by Joab. It’s a sobering example of retributive justice – a testament to the “eye for an eye” philosophy.
This principle continues to shape modern societies. Look at international conflicts. An attack prompts retaliation, leading to a cycle of ongoing violence. It’s a grim reflection of Genesis 9:6‘s retributive justice.
The New Testament brings another layer to this concept. Revelation 13:10 speaks of divine judgment, while upholding the essence of retribution. Romans 13:4 sees governing authorities as instruments of God’s justice, executing punishment on wrongdoers.
So, these biblical perspectives influence societal structures and justice systems. We see punishments meted out according to the crime’s nature and severity.
But what is our role as Christians? I suggest that we have a dual role. While acknowledging retributive justice as a biblical principle, we must also remember Jesus’s teachings about mercy, forgiveness, and peace.
We need to strive for justice, yet be agents of compassion and reconciliation. It’s not an easy task, but it’s a challenge we are called to embrace.
To wrap it up, Genesis 9:6 and other Scriptures offer a vivid image of retributive justice. They remind us to respect life’s sanctity and uphold justice.
But as Christ’s followers, we must remember His teachings on mercy and peace. We must navigate our complex world with both justice and love in our hearts. I believe it’s our duty to do so.
Numbers 35:30
“‘Anyone who kills a person is to be put to death as a murderer only on the testimony of witnesses. But no one is to be put to death on the testimony of only one witness.
In the biblical text, Numbers 35:30 highlights a cornerstone of Old Testament justice: ‘eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth.’
It insists, “Only on the testimony of multiple witnesses can a person be put to death.” This vital directive establishes the necessity of substantial evidence in serious judgments, especially capital punishment.
Another verse, Deuteronomy 17:6, reaffirms this rule. It says, “Death sentences require the testimony of two or three witnesses, not just one.” Clearly, these scriptures show a strong commitment to justice. Hasty, unfounded judgments had no place.
In Daniel 6, we find a compelling illustration. Men conspire to condemn Daniel to a den of lions. When their treachery is unveiled, they meet the lions, not Daniel. It’s a vivid display of the ‘eye for an eye’ doctrine.
Moving to the New Testament, Jesus continues this emphasis on witnesses. In John 8:17, he asserts, “Our Law states that the testimony of two witnesses is true.” Jesus reinforces the importance of verified truth, even amidst allegations.
The moral implications here are profound. These laws highlight integrity and truth. Words must be not only spoken but also verifiable.
These ancient edicts hold a mirror to our modern justice system. Courts require corroborating evidence or multiple witnesses’ testimony to ensure fairness, and most importantly, truth.
So, how should we live in light of these scriptures? The answer is simple: embrace truth and justice. We must realize that our actions have consequences, epitomizing the ‘eye for an eye’ principle. However, the pursuit of justice should always involve mercy.
In sum, these scriptures teach us to prioritize truth in seeking justice. They remind us that the Christian life involves a tireless quest for truth.
As we seek justice, truth remains our compass, guiding us in a world of murky morals. These biblical truths serve as our beacon, distinguishing right from wrong, truth from falsehood, justice from injustice.
Numbers 35:31
31 “‘Do not accept a ransom for the life of a murderer, who deserves to die. They are to be put to death.
As I delve into Numbers 35:31, the phrase “an eye for an eye” comes alive. It screams of stark justice, demanding life for a life. Here, there is no room for ransom or mercy – a murderer must pay with his own life.
This passage from the Old Testament is clear-cut. It holds up individual responsibility, echoing in Ezekiel 18:20, “The one who sins is the one who will die.” These verses hammer home a sobering reality – actions bear consequences.
Shifting to the New Testament, Romans 6:23 seems to mirror this sentiment. It states, “For the wages of sin is death,” a principle embodied in the tragic end of Judas Iscariot. But, in a surprising twist, the verse continues, “but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Suddenly, in the shadow of an “eye for an eye,” we glimpse mercy. We see grace. Yes, sin leads to death, but God offers eternal life. In the world of retributive justice, this is revolutionary.
In many of today’s societies, the death penalty stands as a testament to Numbers 35:31. Justice is dispensed without pardon, reflecting the severity of biblical law. Yet, the New Testament introduces a transformative possibility, a pathway from justice to mercy, grace, and redemption.
Numbers 35:31, therefore, is more than a mandate for harsh justice. It’s a beacon illuminating our journey from the rigid “eye for an eye” of the Old Testament to the divine grace of the New. It emphasizes the need for accountability while nudging us towards the beauty of forgiveness.
To conclude, the analysis of Numbers 35:31 enriches our understanding of biblical justice. It presents an interplay of justice, mercy, and grace that paints a vibrant picture of the Christian ethos.
More bible verses about Eye for an Eye
Exodus 21:12-13 (NIV)
Exodus 21:14 (NIV)
Deuteronomy 19:19-21 (NIV)
Proverbs 19:5 (NIV)
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An eye for an Eye Scriptures: What you must know
1. Christ has abolished the law
Have you ever gone through the 613 laws of Moses?
They are so numerous that we cannot memorize and obey them.
Christ’s death has put an end to such laws, and the scripture says, if we love one another, we have fulfilled God’s commandments.
In other words, God wants us to love each other, just as we love ourselves.
And if that’s the case, there would be no room for hate and revenge.
Here are some scriptures to encourage you.
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Matthew 5:38-39
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Matthew 5:40-41
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Matthew 5:42
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Matthew 5:43-45
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Matthew 5:46-47
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Galatians 5:14
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Matthew 7:12
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Galatians 6:2
2. Do not pay evil for evil
There are evil people around us.
Some of our friends or even family members may severely maltreat us.
It could come in any shape or form.
Recently, I got insulted and hurt by a friend in the bank.
I just said to myself, “I forgive you.”
It doesn’t take anything away from you.
I have learned that when you continuously forgive even the grievous of sins, it becomes effortless to do so.
Remember, there is no limit to your forgiveness.
As Christians, we must forgive all the time and never consider paying back wickedness for wickedness.
Here are some scriptures to encourage you.
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Romans 12:17 (NIV)
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Matthew 5:39 (NIV)
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Proverbs 20:22 (NIV)
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1 Thessalonians 5:15 (NIV)
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1 Peter 3:9 (NIV)
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Romans 12:19 (NIV)
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Matthew 18:21-22 (NIV)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin of the eye for an eye tooth for a tooth?
The principle of “an eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth” is rooted in the ancient Babylonian law. Known as lex talionis, it represents the law of retribution.
Its earliest form appears in the Code of Hammurabi, a Babylonian law code from the 18th century BC.
Later, the Israelites integrated it into their laws, which are recorded in the Old Testament. The Bible’s first mention of this concept is Exodus 21:24.
What verse in Matthew says an eye for an eye?
Matthew 5:38 of the New Testament cites the phrase “an eye for an eye”. It forms part of a discourse known as the Sermon on the Mount. The exact wording is: “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.'”
What does the saying “an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth” mean?
The saying “an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth” emerges from ancient legal systems. It was a guideline to ensure punishments fit the crimes committed. It sought to maintain balance, not inciting excessive retribution.
While it’s often interpreted literally, many scholars suggest it was likely a guide for judicial sentencing, not personal vengeance.
Can you provide three verses from the Old Testament that mention “an eye for an eye”?
“An eye for an eye” finds mention in three Old Testament verses. Exodus 21:24 reads: “Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.”
Leviticus 24:20: “Fracture for fracture, eye for eye, tooth for tooth.”
Finally, Deuteronomy 19:21 states: “Life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.”
Why does the Bible include both “an eye for an eye” and “turn the other cheek” teachings?
An eye for an eye” and “turn the other cheek” serve different contexts and audiences in the Bible. The former is from Old Testament law for the Israelites, providing civil justice guidelines (Exodus 21:24, Leviticus 24:20, Deuteronomy 19:21).
The latter, from Jesus in the New Testament, guides individuals in personal conduct (Matthew 5:38-39). These teachings demonstrate divine guidance’s evolution from national law to personal moral principles.
What is the “eye for an eye” Bible verse in the King James Version (KJV)?
The King James Version (KJV) presents “an eye for an eye” in several passages, such as Exodus 21:24, Leviticus 24:20, and Deuteronomy 19:21.
Exodus 21:24 states: “Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.”
Is there a specific verse about “an eye for an eye” in the book of Leviticus in the Bible?
In the Bible’s book of Leviticus, there’s a verse about “an eye for an eye”. Leviticus 24:20 in the King James Version reads: “Breach for breach, eye for eye, tooth for tooth.”
This passage outlines the principle of equivalent retribution, a measure of justice.
Akatakpo Dunn
Dr. Akatakpo Dunn is a dedicated follower of Christ, an active member and speaker, and an ongoing learner of the Scriptures. Passionate about his faith and serving others, he is committed to sharing his spiritual journey and insights to inspire and uplift fellow believers. He has been active in the church for more than 23 years. Through The Faithful Christian Blog, Dr. Dunn combines his love for God, philanthropy, and Scripture, providing a valuable resource for those seeking to grow in their faith. Follow me: on Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.