Deuteronomy 19:21

You must show no pity: life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, and foot for foot.

Study Bible

You must show no pity:
This phrase emphasizes the importance of justice and the need for impartiality in legal matters. In the context of ancient Israel, the judicial system was designed to reflect God's holiness and righteousness. The command to show no pity underscores the seriousness of maintaining justice and order within the community. It reflects the principle that justice should be blind to personal feelings or relationships, ensuring fairness and equality before the law.

Life for life:
This part of the verse is rooted in the principle of lex talionis, or the law of retaliation, which is also found in Exodus 21:23-25 and Leviticus 24:19-20. It served as a deterrent against crime and ensured that the punishment fit the crime. In a broader biblical context, this principle points to the sanctity of life, as life is a gift from God. The ultimate fulfillment of justice and the sanctity of life is seen in Jesus Christ, who gave His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45).

Eye for eye:
The phrase "eye for eye" is a call for proportional justice. It was intended to prevent excessive punishment and personal vengeance, ensuring that the response to an offense was measured and just. This principle is echoed in the teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, where He calls His followers to a higher standard of love and forgiveness (Matthew 5:38-39), highlighting the transformative power of grace over strict retribution.

Tooth for tooth:
This phrase continues the theme of equitable retribution. In the ancient Near Eastern context, similar laws existed in other cultures, such as the Code of Hammurabi. However, the biblical application was unique in its emphasis on justice as a reflection of God's character. The New Testament expands on this by encouraging believers to overcome evil with good (Romans 12:17-21), pointing to a deeper understanding of justice rooted in love and mercy.

Hand for hand:
The mention of "hand for hand" indicates the importance of personal responsibility and accountability. In a society where manual labor was essential for survival, the loss of a hand would have significant implications. This underscores the seriousness of causing harm to another person and the need for restitution. The broader biblical narrative reveals that true restoration and reconciliation are found in Christ, who heals and restores broken relationships (2 Corinthians 5:18-19).

Foot for foot:
The final phrase in this verse reiterates the principle of proportional justice. The loss of a foot would greatly impact a person's ability to work and provide for their family, highlighting the gravity of such an injury. This principle of justice is ultimately fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who, through His sacrifice, brings ultimate justice and peace (Isaiah 53:5). The call for justice in Deuteronomy points forward to the perfect justice and mercy found in the gospel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Deuteronomy, who is delivering God's laws to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, receiving the law as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.

3. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which the Israelites are about to enter and where these laws will be applied.

4. Judges and Officials
Appointed leaders responsible for ensuring justice and applying the law among the people.

5. Covenant Community
The collective body of Israelites bound by the covenant with God, under which these laws are given.

Teaching Points

Principle of Justice
The law emphasizes fairness and proportionality in justice, ensuring that the punishment fits the crime.

Deterrence and Order
This principle served to deter crime and maintain social order within the covenant community.

Human Limitations
Recognizes human limitations in administering perfect justice, pointing to the need for divine guidance.

Mercy and Forgiveness
While the law calls for justice, the New Testament encourages believers to practice mercy and forgiveness, reflecting God's character.

Transformation through Christ
Jesus' teachings transform the understanding of justice, calling believers to a higher standard of love and forgiveness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the principle of "eye for eye" reflect God's character of justice, and how can we apply this principle in our pursuit of justice today?

2. In what ways does Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:38-39 challenge our understanding of justice and mercy?

3. How can we balance the need for justice with the call to show mercy in our personal relationships and community interactions?

4. What role do judges and officials play in maintaining justice, and how can we support them in our modern context?

5. How does the concept of divine justice in Romans 12:19 influence our response to personal offenses and conflicts?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 21:23-25
This passage also outlines the principle of "eye for eye," emphasizing justice and proportionality in punishment.

Leviticus 24:19-20
Reinforces the concept of equitable retribution, ensuring that the punishment fits the crime.

Matthew 5:38-39
Jesus references this law in the Sermon on the Mount, offering a new perspective on mercy and forgiveness.

Romans 12:19
Paul advises believers to leave vengeance to God, highlighting a shift from retributive justice to divine justice.

James 2:13
Discusses the triumph of mercy over judgment, encouraging believers to practice mercy.