Matthew 5:38-42

Go the Second Mile

38 "You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. [a]
39 But I tell you, don't resist [b] an evildoer. On the contrary, if anyone slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.
40 As for the one who wants to sue you and take away your shirt, [c] let him have your coat [d] as well.
41 And if anyone forces [e] you to go one mile, go with him two.
42 Give to the one who asks you, and don't turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.

Footnotes 5

  • [a]. Ex 21:24; Lv 24:20; Dt 19:21
  • [b]. Or don't set yourself against, or don't retaliate against
  • [c]. Lit tunic inner garment
  • [d]. Lit robe, or garment outer garment
  • [e]. Roman soldiers could require people to carry loads for them.
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