An Eye for an Eye 👁️🦁
An eye for an eye - Revenge or retribution, repayment in kind. This term originates from Mosaic law as expressed in the books of Exodus and Deuteronomy (19:21): “Thine eye shall not pity, but life shall go for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.” This sentiment and exact wording were reiterated in the Book of Leviticus (24:20), but received a non-violent twist in the Gospel of St. Matthew (5:38–39), which advises us to turn the other cheek instead.
Related Terms, Proverbs, and Expressions
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Tit for tat: Reciprocal action, usually in a negative sense.
- Definition: A means of seeking retribution by returning exactly what one has received.
- Humor-filler quote: “I tit you tat, you tat me tit—it’s revenge crafting at its finest!”
- Synonyms: Payback, the golden rule in reverse, quid pro quo.
- Antonyms: Forgiveness, pardon, turning the other cheek.
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Justice is blind: The ideal that justice should be impartial, not influenced by wealth, fame, or status.
- Definition: Blindness symbolizing impartiality and objectivity in justice.
- Humor-filler quote: “When justice is blind, it might also be a little cross-eyed and in need of a seeing-eye dog.”
- Synonyms: Impartiality, fairness, blind justice.
- Antonyms: Bias, partiality, favoritism.
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Turn the other cheek: Responding to aggression without violence.
- Definition: Offering the opposing cheek instead of retaliating when struck.
- Inspirational note: “Why slap back when you can confuse them with kindness?”
- Synonyms: Forgive and forget, peace, patience.
- Antonyms: Revenge, retaliation, vendetta.
Quotes
- “There is no revenge as complete as forgiveness.” —Josh Billings
- “An eye for an eye will only make the whole world blind.” —Mahatma Gandhi
Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies
- Literature: Shakespeare’s “Merchant of Venice” explores themes of revenge and mercy.
- Books: “Les Misérables” by Victor Hugo delves into justice, mercy, and redemption.
- Songs: “I Will Remember You” by Sarah McLachlan — a haunting yet forgiving tone.
- Poetry: “Invictus” by William Ernest Henley speaks to inner strength and resilience.
- Movies: “The Count of Monte Cristo” demonstrates the fine line between revenge and justice.
Quizzes
May you discover the balance between justice and mercy, seeking wisdom over vengeance in your life’s journey.
- H. Historicus, 2023
