What does Matthew 5:43 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 5:43 is a part of the Sermon on the Mount, in which Jesus is presenting a series of teachings that reinterpret traditional Jewish law.

In this verse, Jesus references a common understanding of the time: "Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy." Here, Jesus is preparing to contrast the conventional teaching with his own.

The literal meaning is a paraphrase of commands found in Leviticus 19:18, which instructs to love one's neighbor, but the phrase "and hate thine enemy" does not appear in the Old Testament, this addition reflects an interpretation or attitude that might have been prevalent among the people.

Jesus is pointing out a dichotomy in the way people think about relationships: one must love those close to them and hate those opposed to them.

The deeper meaning begins to unfold as Jesus challenges this notion, urging his followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them, which he further elaborates in the succeeding verses.

Historical Context

The historical context of this verse is that it was spoken during the time of Jesus' ministry, around the first century CE, in a Jewish region under Roman occupation.

The "neighbor" in the Jewish context typically referred to fellow Israelites.

There was animosity between Jews and their occupying forces and other non-Jewish people.

An "enemy" could refer to personal adversaries, but often it was understood more broadly as those who were outside the Jewish community or faith, including occupying forces, pagan nations, and others considered to be non-neighbors.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse is central to Christian ethics.

It represents a significant shift from the Old Testament law to a more universal love that includes even one's enemies.

The idea is not simply a lack of animosity but an active love and prayer for their well-being.

This concept challenges the listener to transcend natural inclinations of tribalism and retaliation.

While some Christian theologians interpret this as an absolute pacifistic command, others understand it as an ideal towards which believers should strive, also considering justice and self-defense.

Practical Applications

In daily life, this teaching encourages individuals to extend kindness and forgiveness to all, including those who may have wronged them.

It is a call to empathy, bridging divides, and actively seeking peace.

The verse can lead to practices such as forgiveness, non-retaliation, peacemaking, and love expressed through actions towards those who are not naturally within one's circle of care.

Cross-References

• Leviticus 19:18: "Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD."
• Matthew 5:44-45: "But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust."
• Romans 12:20: "Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head."
• Luke 6:27-28: "But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you."

Language Study

In the original Greek text of the New Testament, the phrase "Thou shalt love thy neighbour" uses the verb "agapeseis," derived from "agape," which denotes a profound and selfless love.

"Thy neighbour" translates to "ton plesion," referring generally to someone who is near (in relationship, not necessarily in physical proximity).

There is no Greek equivalent in the verse for "hate thine enemy" as this concept was not a direct commandment from the Old Testament but reflects a cultural attitude.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of loving the neighbor can be found in many ancient cultures and religious traditions.

For example, in the ethics of reciprocity or the "Golden Rule," which appears in various forms in many religions and ethical systems, the idea is to treat others as one wants to be treated.

However, the extension to loving one's enemy is quite radical and less common. It represents a significant departure from natural human tendencies and tribal loyalties that were prevalent in most ancient cultures.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the notion of loving one's enemies may seem to contradict basic evolutionary principles of survival and natural selection, which typically favor self-preservation and kin selection.

However, recent studies in evolutionary psychology and sociology suggest that traits like altruism and cooperation can be beneficial for the species as a whole, improving social cohesion and group survival.

Furthermore, practising empathy and forgiveness can have many positive psychological effects, reducing stress and leading to better mental health.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have offered insights into this passage.

For instance, John Stott, a prominent evangelical writer, emphasized that this command to love our enemies is what sets Christianity apart from other philosophies and religions, reflecting the character of God Himself.

Similarly, Martin Luther King Jr., in his sermons and writings on nonviolent resistance, used this verse to advocate for compassion and understanding as revolutionary tools against oppression.

Most commentaries concur that this teaching is central to Christian ethics, illustrating a radical love that is countercultural and transformative.