Old Testament
Deuteronomy 19:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Show no pity in such cases. The penalty must be life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.
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And thine eye shall not pity; but life shall go for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.
What Deuteronomy 19:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes the importance of justice and accountability in society. It states that when someone causes harm, the punishment should be equal to the offense. This principle, often referred to as 'an eye for an eye,' aims to prevent excessive retaliation and ensure fairness. It reflects a commitment to maintaining order and discouraging violence. The idea is not to promote revenge but to establish a standard for justice that is proportional. By enforcing such measures, communities can protect themselves from escalating conflicts. This approach encourages individuals to think carefully about their actions and the consequences they may bring. Ultimately, it serves as a reminder that justice should be served fairly and without bias, ensuring that everyone is held accountable for their actions. This principle can guide us in our relationships and interactions, reminding us to seek fairness and understanding in our dealings with others, rather than allowing emotions to dictate our responses.
How to apply Deuteronomy 19:21 to your life
In our daily lives, we can apply this principle by striving for fairness in our interactions. When conflicts arise, consider the impact of your actions and seek resolutions that are proportional. This mindset can help prevent misunderstandings and promote harmony in relationships, encouraging us to act thoughtfully and justly towards others. Remember, fairness fosters trust and respect in any community or relationship we are part of.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Deuteronomy
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 19:21 mean?
Deuteronomy 19:21 emphasizes the principle of proportional justice, stating that the punishment for a wrongdoing should match the offense. This 'eye for an eye' approach aims to prevent excessive retaliation and ensure fairness in society.
What is the meaning of 'eye for eye' in Deuteronomy 19:21?
The phrase 'eye for eye' in Deuteronomy 19:21 signifies that the punishment should be equal to the harm caused. It serves as a guideline for justice, promoting accountability and discouraging revenge.
How can we apply Deuteronomy 19:21 in daily life?
We can apply Deuteronomy 19:21 by striving for fairness in our interactions and resolving conflicts with proportional responses. This approach encourages thoughtful actions and helps maintain harmony in relationships.
Why is justice important according to Deuteronomy 19:21?
Justice is important in Deuteronomy 19:21 because it promotes accountability and fairness, ensuring that individuals are held responsible for their actions. This principle helps maintain order and discourages violence in the community.
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