Seventy Seven Times Forgiveness

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Eighteenth Week :  Thursday*

*Gospel : Mt 18:21–19:1*

*First Reading : Jos 3:7-10a, 11, 13-17*

*Responsorial Psalm : 114:1-2, 3-4, 5-6*

*Seventy Seven Times Forgiveness*

*1) Symbol of Infinity*

In the Bible, the number seven often represents completeness or perfection. 

So, "seventy-seven times" (or “seventy times seven” in some versions) suggests perfect forgiveness multiplied — a way of saying: “forgive completely, always.”

Jesus is not giving a literal number here, but emphasizing that forgiveness should not be counted or limited. 

*2) Jewish Tradition on Forgiveness*

In Jewish tradition, forgiving three times was considered generous. 

Peter, offering “seven times,” likely thought he was being extra gracious.

But Jesus expands it to “seventy-seven times” (or “seventy times seven” in some translations), which is symbolic of infinite mercy.

*3) Not Mathematical, But Spiritual*

This is not a rule to forgive someone exactly 77 times. 

It’s Jesus’ way of teaching that forgiveness is a way of life, not a one-time act. 

It’s about forming a forgiving heart.

*4) Echoes of Genesis 4:24*

There’s a possible allusion to Genesis 4:24, where Lamech boasts, “If Cain is avenged seven times, then Lamech seventy-seven times.” 

There, “seventy-seven” symbolized boundless vengeance. 

Jesus reverses this — instead of limitless revenge, He teaches limitless forgiveness.

*5) Forgiveness as a Way of Life*

Forgiveness is not a one-time act but an ongoing posture of the heart. 

Jesus is suggesting that forgiveness must become a habit, a disposition that shapes how we relate to others.

*6) Forgiveness Requires Grace*

No one can truly forgive in this way on their own strength. 

This kind of forgiveness flows from a deep awareness of how much we've been forgiven ourselves.

Jesus teaches us to forgive like God forgives us — not by keeping a record of wrongs, but with endless mercy. 

We reflect God’s love when we forgive “seventy-seven times.”

*How about FORGIVENESS in my Life*

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*