Eye for an Eye; or Cheek to Cheek
Who lives rent-free in your head?
One of the most misunderstood Christian doctrines is that of "turning the other cheek". It is often taken as a sign of weakness, ridiculed by institutional bullies and other low-brow individuals.
However, proponents of other philosophies and religions are saying the same thing, but from a very different angle. Let’s see how Lao Tsu, Buddha, Nietzche and finally Jesus make this point.
The master can keep giving
because there is no end to her wealth.
She acts without expectation,
succeeds without taking credit,
and doesn’t think she is better
than anyone else.
LAO TSU
He insulted me, he struck me, he cheated me, he robbed me’: those caught in resentful thoughts never find peace.
‘He insulted me, he struck me, he cheated me, he robbed me’: those who give up resentful thoughts surely find peace.
BUDDHA
As the power and self-confidence of a community increase, the penal law always becomes more moderate….how much injury [a person] can endure without suffering from it becomes the actual measure of his wealth. It is not unthinkable that a society might attain such a consciousness of power that it could allow itself the noblest luxury possible to it — letting those who harm it go unpunished. ‘What are my parasites to me?’ it might say. ‘May they live and prosper; I am strong enough for that!’
NIETZCHE
You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you.
YESHUA
My interpretation of the story
Who lives rent-free in your head?
The route to personal power and confidence lies in your choice to be powerful enough to live your life as yours, and not as a reaction of what has been done to you.
