The law predates the Bible, originally coming from the Code of Hammurabi. the purpose wasn't to create an equal punishment, but to limit it. The usual reaction to someone gouging out an eye is to kill him. The code limited the punishment to no worse than the crime.
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Originally Posted by Cybermat47
Even the Bible agrees that the law is outdated. I'm pretty sure that Jesus said something along the lines of 'two wrongs don't make a right'.
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"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 an evildoer. If anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also."