You asked

what was the common understanding of forgiveness limits in jesus's time?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Matthew 18:21-22

“Then Peter came and said to him, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Until seven times?" Jesus said to him, "I don’t tell you until seven times, but, until seventy times seven."”

This passage is part of Jesus' teaching to his disciples, specifically on community life, humility, and reconciliation. Peter asks a practical question about the extent of forgiveness, likely reflecting a common understanding of limits in his Jewish culture.

What does unlimited forgiveness require of us when we feel hurt or wronged?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

Luke 17:3-4
Jesus also teaches his disciples to forgive a repentant brother repeatedly, even seven times in a day.
Colossians 3:13
Paul encourages believers to bear with one another and forgive as the Lord forgave them.
Proverbs 24:29
An Old Testament proverb that discourages immediate retaliation, hinting at a path away from unending retribution.

Ask your own follow-up