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Meaning of an eye for an eye
The phrase ‘an eye for an eye’ was a well-known principle of justice and punishment during the time of Jesus. However, its beginning was from the days of Moses when the law was given to Israel. The phrase’s first use can be found in Exodus 21:24, where it is presented as one of the many commands for dealing with cases of assault and injury in society. The phrase is also featured in judicial matters in Ex 21:24, Le 24:20, and De 19:21. It is often interpreted to mean that an offender should receive a punishment equal in severity to what they have done.
It is worth noting that “an eye for an eye” as a principle was originally meant to be used as a judicial policy to settle cases, not as a rule for interpersonal relationships. The principle was intended to ensure that punishments were fair and equitable, rather than excessive or inadequate. However, people rather quote this phrase and often use it as a basis for retribution and taking revenge. While this principle is from God and is good for judicial service, vengeful people exploit it to promote a cycle of revenge and violence in the community. And that appears to be the case during the days of Jesus.
In Matthew 5:38, Jesus Christ referred to this principle of “an eye for an eye” and, concerning this principle, Jesus did not teach us to employ it as our rule of life to take revenge on others who have offended us. Rather, He taught His followers not to resist an evil person nor pay him back for what he has done. Jesus, by His words and deeds, set His followers on the path to practice forgiveness and compassion towards others, even in situations where they have been wronged.
Examples of an eye for an eye
The best example to give for “an eye for an eye” in the Bible is the circumstances concerning the death of Abner. Earlier on, Asahel the brother of Joab had an encounter with Abner the commander of the Israeli army and Abner killed him (2Sa 2:18-32). Since that time, Joab bore a grudge against Abner. One day, Abner visited King David in Hebron and left after they were done talking. When Abner learned of it, he sent men to chase Abner to talk him into returning to Hebron. When Abner arrived back at Hebron, Joab took him aside at the gateway as if to speak with him privately. But then he stabbed Abner in the stomach and killed him in revenge for killing his brother Asahel. King David was so displeased when he heard it and he mourned the death of Abner. Reference 2 Samuel 3:22-30
Conclusion
In conclusion, pursuing an eye for an eye as a principle to deal with interpersonal matters may give birth to an endless cycle of revenge leading to loss of life and property. The principle of an eye for an eye is part of the laws God gave the Israelites and it is not wrong in itself for it is to be used by the judiciary and it compels the judge to ensure that offenders get what they deserve and justice should be served properly.