Topical Encyclopedia Revenge, or the act of retaliating against someone for a wrong suffered, is a theme addressed in various contexts within the Hebrew Scriptures. The Jewish understanding of revenge is deeply rooted in the Torah and further explored in the historical and prophetic books. The concept of revenge is often juxtaposed with the principles of justice and mercy, which are central to the Jewish faith.Old Testament Context In the Torah, the principle of "an eye for an eye" (Exodus 21:24, Leviticus 24:20, Deuteronomy 19:21) is often cited in discussions of revenge. This lex talionis, or law of retaliation, was intended to limit vengeance and ensure that the punishment was proportionate to the offense. It was not a mandate for personal revenge but a guideline for judicial fairness. The Berean Standard Bible states in Exodus 21:24, "eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot." The Mosaic Law also includes provisions that discourage personal vengeance. Leviticus 19:18 commands, "Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against any of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD." This verse highlights the importance of love and forgiveness over personal retribution. Historical Books The historical narratives of the Old Testament provide examples of revenge and its consequences. In the account of Samson, found in Judges 15, Samson takes revenge on the Philistines for personal wrongs, leading to a cycle of violence. Judges 15:7 records Samson's words, "Since you have acted like this, I will not stop until I have taken revenge on you." This narrative illustrates the destructive nature of revenge and its potential to escalate conflict. Another example is found in the account of Absalom's revenge against Amnon for the rape of his sister Tamar (2 Samuel 13). Absalom's act of vengeance leads to further familial strife and ultimately contributes to his rebellion against King David. Prophetic Books The prophets often spoke against the cycle of revenge and emphasized God's role as the ultimate judge. In the book of Nahum, God declares His vengeance against Nineveh, but this divine retribution is portrayed as an act of justice rather than personal vendetta. Nahum 1:2 states, "The LORD is a jealous and avenging God; the LORD is avenging and full of wrath. The LORD takes vengeance on His foes and reserves wrath for His enemies." Wisdom Literature The wisdom literature of the Old Testament also addresses the theme of revenge. Proverbs 20:22 advises, "Do not say, 'I will avenge this evil!' Wait on the LORD, and He will deliver you." This verse encourages reliance on God's justice rather than personal retaliation. Jewish Tradition and Interpretation In Jewish tradition, the Talmud and rabbinic writings further explore the concept of revenge. The rabbis often emphasized the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation over vengeance. The ethical teachings of Judaism, as seen in the Pirkei Avot (Ethics of the Fathers), stress the value of peace and the dangers of harboring resentment. Conclusion The Jewish perspective on revenge, as presented in the Hebrew Scriptures, is complex and multifaceted. While the law provided for proportional justice, the overarching message of the Scriptures is one of restraint, forgiveness, and trust in God's ultimate justice. Torrey's Topical Textbook Acts 7:54,59When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth. Torrey's Topical Textbook Acts 23:12 Library The Last Siege of the Jews under Adrian. Fulfilling of the Law in the Higher Sense. --Particular Examples ... Phasaelus is Too Hard for Felix; Herod Also Overcomes Antigonus in ... What Cestius did against the Jews; and How, Upon his Besieging ... How the War of the Jews with the Romans Began, and Concerning ... Concerning John of Gischala. Concerning the Zealots and the High ... How Demetrius Eucerus Overcame Alexander and yet in a Little Time ... Many Tumults under Cumanus, which were Composed by Quadratus. ... The Bishop at Work What Actions were done by Alexander Janneus, who Reigned Twenty ... Resources What does the Bible say about revenge? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the law of retribution? | GotQuestions.org What does Psalm 137:9 mean when it says, “Happy is the one who seizes your infants and dashes them against the rocks”? | GotQuestions.org Revenge: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Revenge: Be Thankful for Being Kept from Taking Revenge: Christ an Example of Forbearing Revenge: Forbidden by Our Lord Revenge: Inconsistent With Christian Spirit Revenge: Inconsistent With the Will of Christ Revenge: Instead of Taking, we should Bless Revenge: Instead of Taking, we should Exercise Forbearance Revenge: Instead of Taking, we should Exhibit Love Revenge: Instead of Taking, we should Give Place to Wrath Revenge: Instead of Taking, we should Overcome Others by Kindness Revenge: Instead of Taking, we should Trust in God Revenge: Jesus an Example of Forbearing Revenge: Keep Others from Taking Revenge: Proceeds from a Spiteful Heart Revenge: The Wicked are Earnest After Related Terms |
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