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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: This is my understanding. If someone were to strike you on the left cheek, you must remember that they only used thier right hand to do anything then you were hit with the back side of the hand the ultimate insult, however if you offered your other (right) cheek to be struck also that would institute the nececessaty to strike with the open palm, which made you equal to that person. So to be struck with the open palm made you equal to the person who was trying to extend the ultimate insult. |