Matthew 5:38
Amharic Gofa 2011 (ኦራ ጫቁዋ ጎፋ)
What Does This Mean?
Jesus is speaking in this verse and he's referring to the old law that says if someone hurts you, it's okay to hurt them back equally. He's setting up a contrast with what he will say next about how his followers should respond differently.
Explained for Children
Imagine playing dodgeball where everyone throws balls at each other until they’re all bruised and hurt. That’s kind of like 'an eye for an eye.' But Jesus is going to show there's a better way to play the game, one that doesn't end with everyone being hurt.
Historical Background
Matthew wrote this gospel around AD 80-90, aimed at Jewish Christians who were familiar with Old Testament laws. The phrase 'an eye for an eye' was part of their legal tradition, emphasizing justice but not always forgiveness or mercy.
Living It Out Today
In modern times, when someone spreads a rumor about you, instead of spreading one back to even the score, Jesus would encourage you to handle it with grace and truth, perhaps by talking directly to that person or forgiving them silently.