Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the concept of "tooth" is often associated with justice, retribution, and the physical body. The term appears in various contexts throughout the Scriptures, symbolizing both literal and metaphorical meanings.Old Testament References The most notable reference to "tooth" in the Old Testament is found in the context of the Mosaic Law, specifically in the principle of lex talionis, or the law of retaliation. This principle is famously encapsulated in the phrase "an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth." In Exodus 21:24 , the law states, "eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot." This legal code was intended to ensure justice by prescribing a punishment equivalent to the offense, thereby preventing excessive retribution and maintaining social order. Leviticus 24:20 reiterates this principle: "fracture for fracture, eye for eye, tooth for tooth. Just as he has injured the other person, the same must be inflicted on him." The repetition of this law underscores its importance in the judicial system of ancient Israel, emphasizing fairness and proportionality in justice. New Testament Context In the New Testament, Jesus Christ addresses the principle of "an eye for an eye" in His Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 5:38-39 , Jesus teaches, "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 introduces a radical departure from the traditional interpretation of the law, advocating for forgiveness and non-retaliation as a higher moral standard. This teaching reflects the transformative nature of Christ's message, emphasizing love and mercy over strict justice. It challenges believers to transcend the natural inclination for revenge and to embody the grace and compassion that characterize the Kingdom of God. Symbolic and Metaphorical Uses Beyond its legal implications, the term "tooth" also appears in metaphorical contexts within the Bible. In Proverbs 25:19 , the unreliability of a faithless person is compared to a broken tooth: "Like a broken tooth or a foot out of joint is confidence in a faithless man in time of trouble." This imagery highlights the pain and dysfunction caused by placing trust in someone who is unreliable. Additionally, the Song of Solomon uses the imagery of teeth in a poetic and positive sense. In Song of Solomon 4:2 , the beauty and purity of the beloved are described: "Your teeth are like a flock of newly shorn sheep coming up from the washing, each one bearing twins, and none has lost its young." Here, teeth symbolize beauty, order, and completeness. Conclusion The concept of "tooth" in the Bible serves as a multifaceted symbol, representing justice, physical integrity, and metaphorical truths. From the legal codes of the Old Testament to the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament, the term invites reflection on the nature of justice, mercy, and human relationships. Library Appeal to the Christian Women of the South Thesaurus Tooth's (1 Occurrence)...Tooth's (1 Occurrence). Exodus 21:27 If he strikes out his male servant's tooth, or his female servant's tooth, he shall let him go free for his tooth's sake. ... /t/tooth's.htm - 6k Tooth (7 Occurrences) Top (880 Occurrences) Manservant's (1 Occurrence) Manservant (14 Occurrences) Maid-servant's (2 Occurrences) Man-servant (18 Occurrences) Man-servant's (1 Occurrence) Maidservant's (1 Occurrence) Bondwoman's (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Tooth's (1 Occurrence)Exodus 21:27 Subtopics Related Terms |
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