Matthew 5:39
New English Translation
39 But I say to you, do not resist the evildoer.[a] But whoever strikes you on the[b] right cheek, turn the other to him as well.
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- Matthew 5:39 tn The articular πονηρός (ponēros, “the evildoer”) cannot be translated simply as “evil” for then the command would be “do not resist evil.” Every instance of this construction in Matthew is most likely personified, referring either to an evildoer (13:49) or, more often, “the evil one” (as in 5:37; 6:13; 13:19, 38).
- Matthew 5:39 tc ‡ Many mss (B D K L Δ Θ ƒ13 565 579 700 1424 pm; SBL) have σου (sou) here (“your right cheek”), but many others lack the pronoun (א W ƒ1 33 892 1241 pm). The pronoun was probably added by way of clarification, as is evident by the fact that it floats in the verse: it is found both before and after “cheek.” NA28 has σου in brackets, indicating doubt as to its authenticity.
Matthew 5:39
King James Version
39 But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
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Matthew 5:39
New International Version
39 But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.(A)
Matthew 5:39
English Standard Version
39 But I say to you, (A)Do not resist the one who is evil. But (B)if anyone (C)slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.
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