Matthew 5:39
Translations
King James Version (KJV)
But I say to you, That you resist not evil: but whoever shall smite you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also.
American King James Version (AKJV)
But I say to you, That you resist not evil: but whoever shall smite you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also.
American Standard Version (ASV)
but I say unto you, resist not him that is evil: but whosoever smiteth thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
Basic English Translation (BBE)
But I say to you, Do not make use of force against an evil man; but to him who gives you a blow on the right side of your face let the left be turned.
Webster's Revision
But I say to you, That ye resist not evil: but whoever shall strike thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
World English Bible
But I tell you, don't resist him who is evil; but whoever strikes you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also.
English Revised Version (ERV)
but I say unto you, Resist not him that is evil: but whosoever smiteth thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
Definitions for Matthew 5:39
Clarke's Matthew 5:39 Bible Commentary
Resist not evil - Or, the evil person. So, I am fully persuaded, τω πονηρω ought to be translated. Our Lord's meaning is, "Do not repel one outrage by another." He that does so makes himself precisely what the other is, a wicked person.
Turn to him the other also - That is, rather than avenge thyself, be ready to suffer patiently a repetition of the same injury. But these exhortations belong to those principally who are persecuted for righteousness' sake. Let such leave the judgment of their cause to Him for whose sake they suffer. The Jews always thought that every outrage should be resented; and thus the spirit of hatred and strife was fostered.
Wesley's Matthew 5:39 Bible Commentary
5:39 But I say unto you, that ye resist not the evil man - Thus; the Greek word translated resist signifies standing in battle array, striving for victory. If a man smite thee on the right cheek - Return not evil for evil: yea, turn to him the other - Rather than revenge thyself.
