Biblical Meekness

In the Sermon on the Mount, the term “meek” in Matthew 5:5—”Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth”—has a rich and nuanced meaning that goes beyond modern connotations of weakness or submissiveness.

 Biblical Context of Meekness
1. Greek Origin: The word translated as “meek” is *praus* or *prautes* in Greek, which conveys mildness, humility, and gentleness of spirit. It refers to having strength or power but choosing to exercise it with restraint and for the benefit of others[1][2][8].

2. Humility Toward God: Meekness involves trusting in God’s plan and submitting to His will without resistance. It reflects a reliance on God’s strength rather than self-assertiveness or self-interest[6]. Meek individuals accept God’s dealings with them as good and patiently wait for His justice and deliverance[5][6].

3. Courage and Nonviolence: In biblical usage, meekness is not cowardly or passive. It often requires courage to renounce violence, resist oppression, and act with conviction against injustice while relying on God’s guidance[1][3]. For example, Moses was described as “very meek,” not because he lacked strength but because he trusted God to vindicate him rather than defending himself[5].

4. Relational Aspect: Meekness also pertains to how one treats others—with dignity, respect, and gentleness rather than domination or control. It embodies humility in relationships and refraining from asserting power unnecessarily[4][8].

 Connection to Psalm 37
Matthew 5:5 echoes Psalm 37:11, which states,

“The meek will inherit the land and enjoy peace and prosperity.”

 

Psalm 37 describes the meek as those who refrain from anger, avoid violence, and trust in God’s justice rather than taking matters into their own hands[1][2].

 Summary
In biblical teaching, meekness is “power under control,” characterized by humility before God, gentleness toward others, and a courageous commitment to God’s ways. It is a spiritual virtue that leads to blessedness and ultimately inheriting the earth—not through domination but through trust in God’s sovereignty[1][2][8].

Citations:
[1] http://franklinfederated.org/worships/2022/2/28/sermonnbsp-blessed-are-the-meek
[2] https://www.gotquestions.org/blessed-are-the-meek.html
[3] https://www.regent.edu/journal/inner-resources-for-leaders/spiritual-meekness-a-virtue-for-christian-leaders/
[4] https://renew.org/sermon-on-the-mount-what-is-meekness-and-does-it-work/
[5] https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/blessed-are-the-meek
[6] https://www.heavenonwheels.org/p/sermon-on-the-mount-blessed-are-the-763
[7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ubXYHpI3K8
[8] https://lifewaychurch.life/blessed-are-the-meek/

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Answer from Perplexity: pplx.ai/share