Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: Retaliation refers to the act of returning like for like, particularly in the context of injury or wrong. In biblical terms, it often involves the response to an offense or harm with a similar action. The concept of retaliation is addressed in both the Old and New Testaments, where it is often juxtaposed with the principles of justice, mercy, and forgiveness. Old Testament Perspective: The Old Testament law includes the principle of "lex talionis," or the law of retaliation, which is famously encapsulated in the phrase "an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth." This principle is found in several passages, including Exodus 21:23-25 : "But if there is serious injury, you are to take life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, and stripe for stripe." This law was intended to limit retaliation and ensure that the punishment was proportionate to the offense, thus preventing excessive retribution. New Testament Teaching: In the New Testament, Jesus Christ introduces a radical departure from the traditional understanding of retaliation. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches against the practice of retaliating in kind. Matthew 5:38-39 states: "You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If someone slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also." Here, Jesus emphasizes the importance of non-retaliation and encourages His followers to respond to wrongdoing with grace and forgiveness rather than vengeance. Apostolic Teaching: The apostles further develop the teaching of non-retaliation in their epistles. The Apostle Paul, in Romans 12:17-19 , advises believers: "Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Carefully consider what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone. Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: 'Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.'" Paul underscores the idea that vengeance belongs to God and that Christians are called to live peaceably, trusting in God's justice. Theological Implications: The biblical teaching on retaliation challenges believers to reflect on the nature of justice and mercy. While the Old Testament law provided a framework for justice, the New Testament calls for a higher standard of love and forgiveness. This shift highlights the transformative power of the Gospel, which empowers believers to overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21). Practical Application: In practical terms, the call to refrain from retaliation requires Christians to exercise self-control and to seek reconciliation rather than revenge. It encourages believers to trust in God's ultimate justice and to demonstrate Christ-like love even in the face of personal injury or insult. This approach not only aligns with the teachings of Jesus but also serves as a powerful witness to the transformative power of the Christian faith. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) The act of retaliating, or of returning like for like; retribution; now, specifically, the return of evil for evil; e.g., an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia RETALIATIONre-tal-i-a'-shun, re-. Library Whether the Just is Absolutely the Same as Retaliation? Whether an Accuser who Fails to Prove his Indictment is Bound to ... The Precept of Loving One's Enemies it is as Much Taught in the ... Whether the Husband Can on his Own Judgment Put Away his Wife on ... Whether the New Law Fulfils the Old? Fragment Xli. This Indicates the Persecution against the Church ... Non-Resistance Some of God's Laws Defended as Good, which the Marcionites ... Whether it is Necessary to Proceed by Way of Accusation for the ... Letter cxxxiii. (AD 412. ) Thesaurus Retaliation... tooth. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. RETALIATION. re-tal-ia'-shun, re-. See LAW IN THE NEW TESTAMENT; PUNISHMENTS; RETRIBUTION. ... /r/retaliation.htm - 6k Punishments (31 Occurrences) Law (670 Occurrences) Offset (3 Occurrences) Retem-tree (2 Occurrences) Revenge (13 Occurrences) Requital (9 Occurrences) Retaliate (1 Occurrence) Dora Dor (7 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about retaliation? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the law of retribution? | GotQuestions.org What did Jesus mean when He instructed us to turn the other cheek? | GotQuestions.org Retaliation: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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