A TOOTH FOR A TEETH Meaning and
Definition
-
The phrase "a tooth for a tooth" is an idiomatic expression typically used to convey the concept of retributive justice or the principle of lex talionis, which means "law of retaliation" in Latin. It comes from the biblical philosophy found in the Old Testament book of Exodus and was later embraced by various legal systems.
In essence, it means that a punishment should be equal or proportionate to the offense committed. This principle suggests that if someone causes harm or injury to another person, they should themselves receive a similar degree of harm or injury in return. It embodies the idea that the punishment should fit the crime and seeks to deter future offenses by holding wrongdoers accountable for their actions.
The phrase has also come to represent the concept of "an eye for an eye," often used interchangeably with "a tooth for a tooth." In this broader sense, it calls for fair and just retaliation or compensation, implying that the punishment should be balanced and not exceed the harm caused. It serves as a symbolic reminder of the importance of justice, maintaining order, and discouraging excessive retaliation in society.
However, it is also crucial to note that in modern legal systems, the principle is often interpreted figuratively. Instead of exacting literal retribution, it stands as a guiding principle for determining appropriate levels of punishment, emphasizing fairness and proportionality.
Common Misspellings for A TOOTH FOR A TEETH
- z tooth for a teeth
- s tooth for a teeth
- w tooth for a teeth
- q tooth for a teeth
- a rooth for a teeth
- a footh for a teeth
- a gooth for a teeth
- a yooth for a teeth
- a 6ooth for a teeth
- a 5ooth for a teeth
- a tioth for a teeth
- a tkoth for a teeth
- a tloth for a teeth
- a tpoth for a teeth
- a t0oth for a teeth
- a t9oth for a teeth
- a toith for a teeth
- a tokth for a teeth
- a tolth for a teeth
- a topth for a teeth
