The act of forgiveness was not a part of pagan lifestyle. The individual who was considered to be “large-souled” would simply disregard the offense. This was especially so if they considered the offense to be “beneath” their taking notice of it. To forgive was considered a sign of a weak spirit. (F. W. Robertson on I Corinthians 4:12.) There is not much mention in the Old Testament of man forgiving man. To ask for forgiveness is to take the posture of subserviency. This word means to place oneself in a position to be subordinate in authority and function. The individual places himself in a position to petition for that which he has no just right. A good example of this can be found in Genesis 33. This chapter records the meeting between Esau and Jacob. This story began in Genesis 27 when Jacob stole Esau’s blessing. Esau was so angry that he wanted to kill his own brother. Jacob had taken his birthright and his blessing. He was left with nothing. Genesis 27:36, 41. In Genesis 33, we see Jacob coming before his brother bowing down low to the ground. (The position of subserviency.) He comes bearing gifts. He did pray to the Lord asking that his brother receive him. Genesis 32:11. As we read this story of these two brothers, they are reunited through the act of forgiveness extended by the offended brother. They continue their journey unified as a family.
The Imprecatory [from imprecate=to invoke evil upon; curse.] Psalms witness to the fact that forgiveness of enemies was not something that was esteemed among the Israelites. They could appeal to the law which enjoined them to seek neither the peace nor the prosperity of their enemies (Deuteronomy 23:6 cf. Ezra 9:12) (The International Bible Encyclopedia) Jesus summed up the law in Matthew 5:43. This is what they said, but Jesus gave them a new God-minded understanding of the action of forgiveness. This certainly represents their attitude and understanding of the teaching of the scriptures.
