12 Bible Verses About Eye For An Eye

Written by: Evelyn Johnson
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Bible verses about eye for an eye

Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about eye for an eye:

1. Exodus 21:24 – Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot,
2. Leviticus 24:20 – Breach for breach, eye for eye, tooth for tooth: as he hath caused a blemish in a man, so shall it be done to him again.
3. Deuteronomy 19:21 – And thine eye shall not pity; but life shall go for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.
4. Matthew 5:38 – Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:
5. Matthew 5:39 – But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
6. Romans 12:19 – Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

7. Proverbs 20:22 – Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the Lord, and he shall save thee.
8. Proverbs 24:29 – Say not, I will do so to him as he hath done to me: I will render to the man according to his work.
9. Luke 6:29 – And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloke forbid not to take thy coat also.
10. 1 Thessalonians 5:15 – See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.
11. 1 Peter 3:9 – Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.
12. 1 Peter 2:23 – Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously.

What does the bible say about eye for an eye?

The concept of “an eye for an eye” is found in the Bible as a principle of justice and retribution.

It is often interpreted as a call for proportional punishment, where the punishment should match the crime committed.

However, the Bible also emphasizes forgiveness, mercy, and turning the other cheek.

It teaches that revenge belongs to God, and individuals should strive to show love and compassion towards others, even those who have wronged them.

Ultimately, the message of the Bible is one of seeking justice tempered with mercy and forgiveness.

What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about eye for an eye?

1. Exodus 21:23-25 – This chapter outlines the principle of “an eye for an eye” in the context of the Mosaic Law, which was given to the Israelites as a guide for living in community and seeking justice.

2. Leviticus 24:19-20 – This chapter further elaborates on the principle of “an eye for an eye” and emphasizes the importance of fair and just retribution for wrongdoing.

3. Matthew 5:38-42 – In this chapter, Jesus addresses the concept of “an eye for an eye” and challenges his followers to turn the other cheek and to love their enemies, rather than seeking revenge or retaliation.

These chapters are relevant to the concept of “an eye for an eye” because they provide insight into the historical and cultural context in which this principle was originally established, as well as how it was later reinterpreted and expanded upon by Jesus in the New Testament. Reading these chapters can help deepen one’s understanding of the biblical teachings on justice, forgiveness, and the importance of seeking reconciliation rather than retaliation.

Ideas and concepts related to eye for an eye that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.’

1. Retribution: Retribution is the idea that punishment should be proportional to the offense committed. In the Bible, the concept of “an eye for an eye” is often seen as a form of retribution, where the punishment matches the crime.

2. Justice: Justice is the concept of fairness and moral rightness. In the context of “an eye for an eye,” justice is seen as ensuring that individuals are held accountable for their actions and that they face consequences for any harm they cause.

3. Forgiveness: While the concept of “an eye for an eye” emphasizes retribution and justice, the Bible also teaches the importance of forgiveness. Forgiveness involves letting go of anger and resentment towards those who have wronged us, instead of seeking revenge or retaliation.

4. Mercy: Mercy is the act of showing compassion and forgiveness towards those who have wronged us. While “an eye for an eye” may seem harsh and unforgiving, the Bible also emphasizes the importance of showing mercy and grace towards others, even when they do not deserve it.

Overall, the concepts of retribution, justice, forgiveness, and mercy are all related to the idea of “an eye for an eye” in the Bible. While the principle of retribution is important for maintaining order and accountability, the Bible also teaches the importance of forgiveness and mercy in dealing with conflicts and seeking reconciliation.

Evelyn Johnson - Bible Verses
Written by Evelyn Johnson


Evelyn Johnson is a theologian, Bible expert, and the founder of EncouragingBibleVerses.org, a trusted resource for uplifting and empowering Bible verses.

With a Master's degree in Divinity, Evelyn is dedicated to studying and interpreting the Bible. Her website features curated collections of verses on various topics, along with insightful commentary and practical tips for everyday life.

Evelyn is also a sought-after speaker and author on matters of faith and spirituality. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and volunteering in her local church and community.

Learn more about her and read her other articles here.