What's Fair?

Exodus 21:12–25; Numbers 35:16-35, Deuteronomy 19:1–13
 
Exodus 21:23-25 But if there is further injury, the punishment must match the injury: a life for a life, 24 an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, a hand for a hand, a foot for a foot, 25 a burn for a burn, a wound for a wound, a bruise for a bruise.
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Matthew 5:38 “You have heard the law that says the punishment must match the injury: ‘An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39 But I say, do not resist an evil person! If someone slaps you on the right cheek, offer the other cheek also. 40 If you are sued in court and your shirt is taken from you, give your coat, too. 41 If a soldier demands that you carry his gear for a mile, carry it two miles. 42 Give to those who ask, and don’t turn away from those who want to borrow. 43 You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and hate your enemy. 44 But I say, ‘Love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!”  
 
DO these Scriptures contradict each other? As Jesus came to fulfill the law, it seems he is erasing it. Bible commentator Warren Wiersbe has a very good explanation for us:
   “The ‘eye for an eye’ law is known as the lex talionas. This is a Latin term meaning “the law of retaliation” or “The punishment must fit the crime.” This principle has been severely criticized by some as being barbaric, but it’s just the opposite. In an age when the legal system was developing, this law made sure that the punishment the judges ordered was equal to the seriousness and severity of the crime, not more and not less. If the guilty aggressor blinded his enemy’s eye, then his own eye was blinded. Nothing could be fairer. In contrast, if you broke your enemy’s finger and the court ordered you to be blinded, that wouldn’t be fair at all, because the sentence must fit the crime.
   “When Jesus prohibited His disciples from retaliating against those who hurt them, he was dealing with personal revenge (“I’ll get even with you!”) and encouraging personal forgiveness. He wasn't criticizing Moses or interfering with the legal system, because He came to fulfill the Law and not to destroy it.
   “As believers, we have the privilege of waiving our ‘legal rights’ of retribution to the glory of God and not demanding compensation. However, in the civil law, a judge has to see that justice is done and the law is respected.” (from The Bible Exposition Commentary: Old Testament © 2001-2004 by Warren W. Wiersbe.)
   I hope this helps you understand, too, why Bible study – even that of the law –   is essential. On first look, we can be confused or unsure of a scripture’s meaning. Taking time to know God’s meaning is vital to your sanctification. It is also a key for you to help others come to faith.