this post was submitted on 29 Jan 2024
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Which English translation do you prefer and recommend? I like NET because of it's less-rights reserved copyright, but for ease of understanding I prefer translations that use contemporary language instead of just footnotes.
I think this characterization of turning the other cheek is more complete and supported by the nearby text, even for someone like me who prefers Jefferson's eliding.
Re: "do not resist", are there other nearby passages that expand it to more than just refraining from violence, into actually resisting evil persons? I ethically agree with your expanded position of trying to overcome injustice in this world - but doesn't the quotes of Jesus in the canonical books rely instead on waiting for justice in heaven and hell, and not on Earth?
I normally use the KJV (I'm used to it) but in this thread I've mostly been quoting the NIV.
(I'm assuming that you mean "do not resist" as in Matthew 5:39)
So the full text of Matthew 5:39 is
In this verse Jesus is talking about vengeance and how we should react to mistreatment. I believe that the first part of "do not resist an evil person" refers to violent resistance. The second part of "If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also" is a bit more complicated.
So in the culture of the time/place, the right hand was typically associated with things like honour and authority, and a backhand slap on the left cheek with the right hand was considered to be insulting to the slappee and a sign that the slapper considered the slappee to be inferior. By turning their right cheek to them, the slappee gives the slapper three choices:
Break social taboo
If the slapper were to deliver another backhand slap with their left hand, they would go against social norms and could potentially undermine their authority.
Fight as equals
If the slapper were to deliver a fronthand slap or a punch with their right hand, they would no longer be treating the slappee as inferior but would instead be fighting as equals.
Give up
If the slapper were to give up and leave the slappee alone, then the slapper would no longer be in authority and the slappee would win.
I'm pretty sure He says things like that but I can't think of any specific verses.
(sorry it took a while for me to answer, your reply didn't show up on my app for some reason)