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An eye for an eye

Many seem to identify with this Biblical phrase, finding it suitable to justify themselves. But I tend to read widely and at one time I dipped into a book by this Jewish guy..... (OK, the Jews missed the Messiah when he came and now wail in the outer darkness where there is much gnashing of teeth) But hey, the OT is a Jewish book so he might have some idea about it........😀

His point was that the words "An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth" originated when the Jewish people were in exile in Babylon. Being treated as slaves, minions. The Babylonians, like most of us, saw themselves as being more valuable than any other race. If a Babylonian was killed by a Jew, then they would put 100 Jews to death in retribution. But God responds by saying to his people:- "With you it is not to be so. With you it is to be an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth." Thus the phrase is a call for equality before the law, not a call for retribution.

Which is a lesson that humankind still seems to need to learn, given the world of today - at least as I see it.

Now this post can safely be ignored.
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Graylight · 51-55, F
As I was taught. In the Catholic tradition, the story is told as an example of justice and not more. And it does not demand equal retribution, either; it only caps the penalty at nothing greater than was committed.
4meAndyou · F
Like everyone else...I didn't KNOW that! Thank you for the clarification.

Unfortunately, most people understand it to be permission to seek vengeance.
SW-User
@4meAndyou I'm simply passing on how a Jewish guy understood his own scriptures.

But thanks.
SW-User
Sorry, I'm putting this "ignore" message on a few posts. The past week has been a week from Hell. Testing. I'm tired. Physically and mentally. It just seems that, more often than not, the only posts here that get lots of views and responses are those such as "How big is your dick" or suchlike.

Sorry, sometimes I just get pissed off.
@SW-User I am sorry that you have this affliction. So do I. Mostly I get discouraged these days.

I actually read all your posts that I see and they make me think. They make me question. I think this makes you valuable.

Mostly prophets do end up pissed off.

There is much in what you talk about that makes sense. Some I struggle with.

Keep leading horses to water. Some may drink.
SW-User
@Mamapolo2016 Well, I'm no prophet! But beneath it all, it really has been a week from hell!! Just mentally tired.

Thanks
@SW-User Life can wring you out some weeks.
It's a shallow place. Too much vacuous shit posting ....that means nothing , yet somehow evokes many, just as meaningless replies .

It's bizarre isn't it? How can people say so much about nothing ?

Mind you, there are many who are always saying they are bored, and have no meaning, or don't care ....and they wonder why .
SW-User
@OogieBoogie I suppose it just reflects the world in general. No wonder the wheel just keeps on turning.

 
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