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soc.culture.jewish FAQ: Worship, Conversion, Intermarriage (5/12)
Section - Question 11.4.2: Practices Towards Others: What does "eye for an eye" mean?

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                                  Answer:
   
   The Written Law does, in Exodus 21:24 demand an "eye for an eye"
   (Exodus 21:24). However, the Oral Law explains that the verse must be
   understood as requiring monetary compensation: the value of an eye is
   what must be paid.
   
   Note that the Written Law does NOT imply "lex talionis" - gouging out
   the perpetrator's eye as retaliatory punishment. Gandhi and many
   others misunderstood this verse.

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