Definition and Context:
"Turning the other cheek" is a phrase derived from the teachings of Jesus Christ, specifically found in the Sermon on the Mount. This concept is a call to non-retaliation and forgiveness in the face of personal offense or aggression. It is a principle that challenges the natural human inclination towards revenge and retribution, advocating instead for a response rooted in love and humility.

Biblical Reference:
The primary biblical reference for "turning the other cheek" is found in the Gospel of Matthew. Jesus instructs His followers with these words: "But I tell you not to resist an evil person. If someone slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also" (Matthew 5:39). This teaching is part of a broader discourse where Jesus contrasts the traditional Jewish law of retribution, "an eye for an eye," with a higher standard of conduct for His disciples.

Theological Significance:
The command to turn the other cheek is a radical departure from the lex talionis, the law of retaliation, which was prevalent in ancient legal systems, including the Mosaic Law. By advocating for non-retaliation, Jesus emphasizes the importance of mercy, grace, and the transformative power of love. This teaching underscores the call for Christians to embody the character of Christ, who Himself exemplified this principle through His life and sacrificial death.

Practical Application:
In practical terms, turning the other cheek involves a conscious decision to respond to personal offenses with patience and forgiveness rather than anger and vengeance. It is an invitation to trust in God's justice and to leave room for His intervention. This teaching encourages believers to break the cycle of violence and hostility, promoting peace and reconciliation in personal relationships and within the broader community.

Historical and Cultural Context:
In the cultural context of first-century Judea, a slap on the right cheek was considered a severe insult, often delivered with the back of the hand. Jesus' instruction to offer the other cheek would have been seen as a shocking and countercultural response, challenging societal norms and expectations. This teaching reflects the broader ethos of the Kingdom of God, where power is manifested through humility and strength is demonstrated through restraint.

Interpretations and Misunderstandings:
Throughout history, the teaching of turning the other cheek has been subject to various interpretations. Some have viewed it as a call to absolute pacifism, while others see it as a principle of personal conduct rather than a political or social mandate. It is important to understand this teaching within the context of Jesus' overall message, which calls for a heart transformation that reflects God's love and righteousness.

Related Biblical Themes:
Turning the other cheek is closely related to other biblical themes such as forgiveness (Matthew 6:14-15), loving one's enemies (Matthew 5:44), and overcoming evil with good (Romans 12:21). These teachings collectively emphasize the Christian call to live in a manner that reflects the character of Christ and advances the values of His Kingdom.Romans 12:19
Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place to wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, said the Lord.
Topicalbible.org

Non-Resistance
... If turning the other cheek would but make the assaulter more angry, or if yielding
the cloak would but make the legal robber more greedy, or if going the ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture a/non-resistance.htm

The Third Book
... He is so far from turning his other cheek to the man who strikes him that he thinks
that he is winning when he has outdone his adversary, not in being struck ...
//christianbookshelf.org/salvian/on the government of god/the third book.htm

Further Exposure of the Wicked and Blasphemous Doctrines of the ...
... not to strike, but even, when themselves struck, to present the other cheek [to
those ... on them to have experience of every kind of work; but, turning aside to ...
/.../irenaeus/against heresies/chapter xxxii further exposure of the.htm

The Wind Blew Loud, but Diamond Slept a Deep Sleep...
... He could only manage one at a time, however"-the other cheek was so far off on the
other side of ... Don't you see how he's turning round his ears, with the ...
/.../macdonald/at the back of the north wind/chapter 16 the wind blew.htm

The Turning Point
... attention on that account, but rather the other way, for ... me, and accept me." It is
the turning-point of ... bosom, and feel his warm kisses on your cheek, you will ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 20 1874/the turning point.htm

Witnessing in Power.
... But a great many people now want something besides the Word of God, and are turning
aside to these false ... Christ says, turn the other cheek to him who smites. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/moody/secret power/witnessing in power.htm

The Doctrine of Non-Resistance to Evil by Force Has Been Professed ...
... He teaches that Christianity, expecting from its adherents gentleness, meekness,
peaceableness, forgiveness of injuries, turning the other cheek when one is ...
/.../tolstoy/the kingdom of god is within you/chapter i the doctrine of.htm

Treatise ix. On the Advantage of Patience.
... with the Jews, how great equanimity and how great patience, in turning the unbelieving ...
that, when you receive a buffet, you should give your other cheek to the ...
/.../cyprian/the treatises of cyprian/treatise ix on the advantage.htm

1 Cor. xi. 2
... and ruined all, then she is justly told for the future, "thy turning shall be ... to
the Gentiles smiting us on the right, we must turn the other cheek; much more ...
/.../homilies on the epistles of paul to the corinthians/homily xxvi 1 cor xi.htm

For the King There were Three Great Perils: the People...
... I shall write to her that I have other business.". ... "'Tis the great goddess come to
earth," said he, turning to Lugar. ... "Nay," said she, her cheek touching his ...
//christianbookshelf.org/bacheller/vergilius/chapter 16 for the king.htm

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