AN EYE FOR AN EYE Meaning and
Definition
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"An eye for an eye" is a proverbial phrase derived from the ancient law of retaliation or retributive justice, which states that a punishment for a wrongdoing should be comparable to the harm inflicted. This principle represents the concept of reciprocity, where the punishment is proportional to the offense committed. The phrase encapsulates the belief that justice demands punishment in kind, with the perpetrator suffering the same harm or loss that they inflicted upon others.
Originating from various legal codes and religious texts, "an eye for an eye" has been associated with a range of cultures, including the Hammurabi Code in ancient Babylon, Jewish law, and Islamic law. It has also been linked to the philosophical ideas of retributive justice found in works by thinkers like Immanuel Kant.
Despite the phrase's figurative usage, it is important to highlight that most modern legal systems have moved away from literal interpretations and instead embrace the principle of proportionality in sentencing. Contemporary society generally favors a more nuanced approach to justice, focusing on deterrence, rehabilitation, and restoration rather than strict revenge.
In its broader sense, "an eye for an eye" can also refer to the principle of demanding fair and equitable treatment, or seeking justice for a wrong suffered. It reflects a desire for parity and a belief that justice must restore the balance disrupted by an offense.
Common Misspellings for AN EYE FOR AN EYE
- zn eye for an eye
- sn eye for an eye
- wn eye for an eye
- qn eye for an eye
- ab eye for an eye
- am eye for an eye
- aj eye for an eye
- ah eye for an eye
- an wye for an eye
- an sye for an eye
- an dye for an eye
- an rye for an eye
- an 4ye for an eye
- an 3ye for an eye
- an ete for an eye
- an ege for an eye
- an ehe for an eye
- an eue for an eye
- an e7e for an eye
- an e6e for an eye
Idioms with the word AN EYE FOR AN EYE
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take an eye for an eye
The idiom "take an eye for an eye" is a reference to the principle of retaliation or revenge, where one seeks to exact punishment or harm on someone who has previously wronged them in a similar manner. It is derived from the concept of retributive justice, whereby the punishment or harm inflicted should match or mirror the original offense.
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an eye for an eye (and a tooth for a tooth)
The idiom "an eye for an eye (and a tooth for a tooth)" is an ancient principle or law of retaliation or retribution. It suggests that the punishment for a wrongdoing should closely match the harm or offense caused. It implies seeking justice or seeking to balance the scales by giving someone the same level of harm they have inflicted upon others.
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an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth
The phrase "an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth" is a reference to the idea of seeking retribution or revenge that is proportional to the harm or injury that was done. It suggests that punishment should be equal to the crime committed.
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