Matthew 5:38-42

Eye for Eye

38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’^[a]

39 But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.

40 And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well.

41 If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles.

42 Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.

Matthew 5:38 in Other Translations

38 Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:

38 "You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.'

38 “You have heard the law that says the punishment must match the injury: ‘An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.’

38 "Here's another old saying that deserves a second look: 'Eye for eye, tooth for tooth.'

38 "You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.

Matthew 5:38-42 In-Context

36 And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black.

37 All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.

38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’

39 But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.

40 And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well.

41 If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles.

42 Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.

43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’

44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,

Cross References

• 1. Exodus 21:24; Leviticus 24:20; Deuteronomy 19:21
• 2. Luke 6:29; Romans 12:17,19; 1 Corinthians 6:7; 1 Peter 3:9
• 3. Deuteronomy 15:8; Luke 6:30

Footnotes

• [a]. Exodus 21:24; Lev. 24:20; Deut. 19:21