an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth
A set phrase expressing the principle of retributive justice, often cited in discussions of revenge or strict reciprocity. Originates from the biblical passage Matthew 5:38.
The idea of 'an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth' is not accepted in modern legal systems.
He quoted 'an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth' to justify his revenge.
A direct translation of the biblical phrase from Matthew 5:38, originally from the Old Testament principle of 'lex talionis.' The Japanese rendering is a literal calque.