King James Version
What Does Leviticus 24:20 Mean?
“Breach for breach, eye for eye, tooth for tooth: as he hath caused a blemish in a man, so shall it be done to him again.”
Context
18
And he that killeth a beast shall make it good; beast for beast. beast for: Heb. life for life
19
And if a man cause a blemish in his neighbour; as he hath done, so shall it be done to him;
20
Breach for breach, eye for eye, tooth for tooth: as he hath caused a blemish in a man, so shall it be done to him again.
21
And he that killeth a beast, he shall restore it: and he that killeth a man, he shall be put to death.
22
Ye shall have one manner of law, as well for the stranger, as for one of your own country: for I am the LORD your God.
Commentary
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary**5. They shall not make baldness upon their heads ... nor ... cuttings in their flesh--**The superstitious marks of sorrow, as well as the violent excesses in which the heathen indulged at the death of their friends, were forbidden by a general law to the Hebrew people (Le 19:28). But the priests were to be laid under a special injunction, not only that they might exhibit examples of piety in the moderation of their grief, but also by the restraint of their passions, be the better qualified to administer the consolations of religion to others, and show, by their faith in a blessed resurrection, the reasons for sorrowing not as those who have no hope.
Robert Jamieson, A.R. Fausset, David Brown. Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Leviticus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Leviticus 24:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Leviticus 24:20
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge