Bible Dictionary
Cheek
To strike the cheek was regarded as a serious insult and injury. Jesus used the image of turning the other cheek to teach resistance to retaliation and a willingness to endure wrong without returning evil.
Biblical Usage
Smiting the cheek is associated with grievous insult. Jesus’ instruction to offer the other cheek is explained as the command to resist retaliation and not repay evil with evil. The psalm about God striking enemies on the cheek means that He deprived them of power to injure.
Scripture References