Random
Only logged in members can reply and interact with the post.
Join SimilarWorlds for FREE »

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.
This page is a permanent link to the reply below and its nested replies. See all post replies »
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.