View All Biblical Expressions

Turn the other cheek

Here’s what it means

Do not answer personal insult or mistreatment with revenge; be willing to absorb wrong rather than mirror it.

Why the Bible says it this way

The writer deliberately uses very strong language to make an important point. The point is serious even though the wording is not meant literally.

A helpful detail: The saying forbids personal retaliation and presses costly love. It should not be used to erase all biblical duties to protect others, tell truth, or pursue lawful justice.

Where it appears