Luke 6:29
And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloak forbid not to take thy coat also.
Luke 6:29 · King James Version
Meaning
Many scholars and theologians interpret this verse from Luke 6:29 as a call to practice nonviolence and turn the other cheek in the face of aggression or conflict. By advocating for peaceful resistance, this verse encourages believers to respond to hostility with compassion and grace, rather than retaliating with violence or hatred. The concept of offering the other cheek when struck on one can be seen as a metaphor for responding to aggression with love and forgiveness, rather than perpetuating a cycle of violence. Furthermore, the instruction to not withhold one's coat from someone who takes their cloak emphasizes the importance of generosity and selflessness, even in the face of injustice or theft. This verse challenges believers to embody the principles of forgiveness, kindness, and empathy, even in challenging circumstances.
Theological Overview
When looking at the theological interpretation of Luke 6:29, it is important to understand the context and teachings of Jesus Christ. In this verse, Jesus is teaching his disciples about love, forgiveness, and turning the other cheek. The act of offering the other cheek when smitten on one cheek is symbolic of not retaliating or seeking revenge. It is about responding with love and grace, rather than perpetuating violence. Similarly, when Jesus talks about offering one's cloak and coat, he is teaching about generosity and sacrificial giving. The disciple is encouraged to not hold on to material possessions but to be willing to give to those in need. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the principles of non-violence, forgiveness, and generosity that are central to the teachings of Jesus.
Luke 6:29 in other translations
American Standard Version
To him that smiteth thee on the [one] cheek offer also the other; and from him that taketh away thy cloak withhold not thy coat also.
World English Bible
To him who strikes you on the cheek, offer also the other; and from him who takes away your cloak, don’t withhold your coat also.
Douay-Rheims
And to him that striketh thee on the one cheek, offer also the other. And him that taketh away from thee thy cloak, forbid not to take thy coat also.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And vnto him that smiteth thee on ye one cheeke, offer also the other: and him that taketh away thy cloke, forbid not to take thy coate also.