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It is forbidden to take revenge, whether in word or deed, against another Jew.
This mitzvah prohibits acts of retaliation. Rambam (Hilchot De’ot 7:7) explains two levels: revenge in deed (“I will not lend him because he did not lend me”) and bearing a grudge in speech (“I will lend him, unlike him who refused me”). Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 241) teaches that revenge keeps hatred alive, while Torah commands forgiveness and love.
The Talmud (Yoma 23a) highlights the mitzvah by comparing it to one who refuses to forgive small slights, contrasting this with the righteous who overlook insult. Rashi (Lev. 19:18) explains that the mitzvah demands releasing anger and imitating Hashem, who is slow to anger. Ramban deepens this by teaching that revenge arises from arrogance, while Torah seeks humility. Midrash (Sifra Kedoshim §4) states that revenge multiplies strife, while forgiveness multiplies peace.
Commentary & Classical Explanation:
Contrast with Bearing a Grudge (Mitzvah 21):
Parallel to Love of Fellow Jews (Mitzvah 13):
Healing Instead of Hurting
Building True Strength
Countering the Cycle of Harm
Trusting Divine Justice
Repairing Relationships
Cultivating Peaceful Societies
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Reflects mitzvot rooted in love—of G‑d, others, and the world we are entrusted to uplift.
Practices that cultivate inner modesty and self-awareness. These mitzvot teach us to step back from ego, create space for others, and recognize our place before G-d.
Mitzvot that uphold fairness, honesty, and moral responsibility. Justice is kindness structured — ensuring that society reflects G-d’s order through truth, equity, and accountability.
Empathy in motion — responding to another’s pain with sensitivity, patience, and understanding. Whereas chesed gives broadly, rachamim responds gently, tailoring care to a person’s emotional or spiritual needs.
Pertains to the power of speech—both positive and negative—including lashon hara, vows, and blessings.
Mitzvot that strengthen communal life — showing up, participating, supporting, and belonging. Community is where holiness is shared, prayers are multiplied, and responsibility becomes collective.
Mitzvot that govern ethical behavior, kindness, justice, and responsibility in human relationships. These actions build trust, dignity, and peace between people.
Mitzvot that define and deepen the relationship between a person and their Creator. These include commandments involving belief, prayer, Shabbat, festivals, sacrifices, and personal holiness — expressions of devotion rooted in divine connection.
Dive into mitzvot, prayer, and Torah study—each section curated to help you learn, reflect, and live with intention. New insights are added regularly, creating an evolving space for spiritual growth.
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Each week’s parsha offers timeless wisdom and modern relevance. Explore summaries, key themes, and mitzvah connections to deepen your understanding of the Torah cycle.
