What is the meaning of Luke 6:29?

If someone strikes you on one cheek

• Jesus addresses personal insult or injury, directing His followers to refuse retaliation.

• This echoes “Bless those who curse you” just two verses earlier (Luke 6:27-28).

• Matthew 5:38-39 clarifies: “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye…’ But I tell you… If someone slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also.”

• Proverbs 15:1 reminds that “A gentle answer turns away wrath,” showing the wisdom behind non-retaliation.

• The command is literal: disciples willingly absorb the wrong, trusting God to judge (Romans 12:19-21).

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Turn to him the other also

• Offering the other cheek demonstrates active love, not passive defeat.

• It breaks the cycle of violence and puts the aggressor face-to-face with undeserved grace.

• Jesus modeled this before the high priest’s court (John 18:22-23) and on the cross (1 Peter 2:23).

• Practical outcomes:

– Disarms hostility (Romans 12:21).

– Shows confidence in God’s vindication.

– Displays Kingdom values that prize eternal reward over temporary comfort.

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If someone takes your cloak

• In ancient Israel the cloak could be legally held as a pledge until sunset (Exodus 22:26-27). Losing it left a person exposed, yet Jesus says to release it without struggle.

• This calls believers to surrender material rights rather than fight for them.

• Hebrews 10:34 commends early Christians who “joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property” because they trusted in “better and lasting possessions.”

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Do not withhold your tunic as well

• Going beyond what is demanded flips greed on its head with radical generosity.

• Matthew 5:40 parallels: “If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well.”

• 1 Corinthians 6:7 challenges, “Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be cheated?”

• Living this way:

– Frees the heart from materialism (Acts 20:35).

– Embodies proactive love for enemies (Romans 12:20).

– Trusts God’s provision (Philippians 4:19).

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summary

Jesus’ words in Luke 6:29 command literal, personal self-denial in the face of violence or loss. Instead of protecting ego or possessions, disciples mirror Christ’s grace, absorb wrongs, extend unexpected kindness, and trust the Father to defend and supply. Such obedience turns everyday conflicts into opportunities for gospel witness and Kingdom triumph.