Hyperbole is a figure of speech in which exaggeration is used for emphasis or effect, often with the intention of making a point or creating a strong impression. It is a common literary device in many forms of writing, including religious texts.
In Matthew 5-7, Jesus uses hyperbole to emphasize his teachings and make a point to his followers. For example, in Matthew 5:29-30, Jesus says, "If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away... And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away." This is a clear example of hyperbole, as Jesus is not actually advocating for his followers to maim themselves, but is using this extreme example to illustrate the seriousness of avoiding sin and temptation.
Another example of hyperbole in Matthew 7:3-5, when Jesus says, "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?" Here, Jesus uses exaggeration to emphasize the importance of self-examination and self-improvement before judging or correcting others.
Overall, hyperbole is a powerful technique that Jesus used in his teachings to emphasize important points and create a memorable impact on his listeners.