Prior Book | Prior Chapter | Prior Verse | Next Verse | Next Chapter | Next Book | Viewing NASB and Amplified 2015 | |
NASB | Matthew 5:39 "But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Matthew 5:39 "But I say to you, do not resist an evil person [who insults you or violates your rights]; but whoever slaps you on the right cheek, turn the other toward him also [simply ignore insignificant insults or trivial losses and do not bother to retaliate--maintain your dignity, your self-respect, your poise]. [Luke 6:29, 30; Rom 12:17-21] |
Bible Question:
In Mt. 5:39 Jesus talks of someone striking the right cheek. Is there a reason for saying the right cheek, instead of just 'cheek'? Is there some cultural or further meaning in that is specific to striking the right cheek rather than the left? |
Bible Answer: Greetings WheelsTwo! One source I consulted suggested the following: "To strike ont he right check was 'a blow with the back of the hand, which even today in the East expresses the greatest possible contempt and extreme abuse' (Jeremias, NTT, p. 239); as such it was punishable by a very heavy fine (Mishnah BK 8:6). The situation envisaged is thus one of insult rather than of physical violence, and it is possibly to be seen as an aspect of religious persecution (Jeremias, loc. cit.)." Taken from, "Matthew" of the Tyndale New Testament Commentary Series by R. T. France, pg. 126. I hope this helps! Your Brother in Christ, Tim Moran |