You’ve probably heard the phrase “blessed are the meek” before, even if you’re not super familiar with the Bible.
It’s one of those sayings that gets thrown around a lot.
But have you ever really stopped to think about what it means to be “meek”? And why does Jesus seem to be blessing meekness in his famous Sermon on the Mount?
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the meaning behind “blessed are the meek.” We’ll unpack what meekness really entails in the Bible.
And we’ll see why this beatitude is so significant for followers of Jesus.
Stick around as we explore the richness behind this well-known but often misunderstood phrase.
You may just walk away with a new appreciation for what it really means to be meek!
Understanding “Meek” in the Bible
Not Weak, but Humble
When Jesus said “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth” in the Sermon on the Mount, he wasn’t praising those who are timid or lack strength.
The biblical definition of “meek” is quite different from how we typically use the word today.
In ancient Hebrew and Greek, the languages of the Old and New Testaments, the word translated as “meek” refers to those who are humble, gentle, and patient – the opposite of arrogant or self-assertive.
It doesn’t mean being a doormat or push-over.
Rather, biblical meekness describes an inner strength, self-control, and reliance on God’s guidance.
Power Under Control
The truly “meek” don’t throw their weight around or try to force their will on others.
They have strength and power, but it’s under control – harnessed for good instead of selfish ambition.
Think of great leaders like Moses, who the Bible calls “the most humble man on the face of the earth.”
Moses stood up to Pharaoh’s oppression and led millions out of slavery, not because he sought glory for himself, but because he obeyed God’s calling.
That’s the essence of biblical meekness – surrendering your life to a higher purpose.
Inheriting the Earth
So when Jesus said the “meek shall inherit the earth,” he meant that those with this humble, gentle strength will ultimately receive God’s promised blessings – not by grasping for power, but by aligning their lives with God’s will.
It’s a paradox – the “weak” become powerful when they let go of their egos and live for something greater than themselves.
In God’s kingdom, the humble are exalted while the proud are brought low.
That’s the upside-down value system Jesus taught, one that redefines true strength and greatness.
The Meaning of “Blessed Are the Meek” in Matthew 5:5
A Countercultural Message
When Jesus proclaimed “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth” in the Sermon on the Mount, his words flew in the face of conventional wisdom.
In ancient times, “meekness” was seen as weakness – the opposite of the brash power and strength valued by society.
Yet Jesus turned this notion on its head.
He wasn’t advocating for timidity or cowardice.
Instead, the original Greek word “praus” describes an inner strength – the humble confidence to stand firm without arrogance or excessive force.
Embodying Strength Under Control
Being meek is akin to a wild stallion brought under control.
Its immense power remains, but is reined in with a gentle hand.
Likewise, the meek possess a quiet self-assurance that doesn’t need to constantly flex or boast.
They don’t insist on their own way, yet won’t be trampled either.
Jesus himself modeled this perfect blend of humility and conviction.
Though all-powerful, he served others.
He displayed incredible restraint when insulted, yet boldly spoke truth to corrupt leaders.
The meek walk this delicate line – unassuming yet unshakable.
Inheriting What Matters Most
In promising that the meek will “inherit the earth,” Jesus likely had more than just real estate in mind.
He may have been alluding to Psalm 37, which contrasts the temporary wealth of the wicked against the lasting inheritance of those who trust in God.
From this perspective, the “meek” are those who subdue their egos, greed, and arrogance.
Rather than grasping for power or status, they focus on what’s truly valuable – wisdom, justice, and care for others.
And it’s these souls who will ultimately “inherit” all that’s worth having – both in this life and the next.
Examples of Meekness in the Bible
Moses’ Humility
Moses is described as the most humble man on earth (Numbers 12:3).
Despite leading the Israelites out of Egypt and receiving the Ten Commandments directly from God, he remained meek.
When confronted by his siblings’ complaints, Moses didn’t retaliate – he “was very meek, more than all people who were on the face of the earth” (Numbers 12:3).
Jesus’ Gentleness
Jesus embodied true meekness throughout his ministry.
Though he was the Son of God, he “did not come to be served, but to serve” (Matthew 20:28).
He washed his disciples’ feet, associated with the poor and outcast, and endured immense suffering without retaliating.
“He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth” (Isaiah 53:7).
Jesus exhibited perfect humility.
Paul’s Confidence in Weakness
The apostle Paul embraced meekness by boasting in his weaknesses so Christ’s power could work through him (2 Corinthians 12:9).
He didn’t view his “thorn in the flesh” as a hindrance but an opportunity to experience God’s grace.
Paul’s meekness meant relying on God’s strength, not his own.
Meekness involves entrusting your life to God, serving others humbly, and embracing weakness.
The lives of Moses, Jesus, and Paul exemplify this countercultural virtue esteemed so highly in Scripture.
Why God Blesses the Meek
A different kind of strength
When you hear the word “meek”, you might picture someone timid or easily pushed around.
But true meekness isn’t weakness – it’s incredible strength under control.
The meek are powerful, yet humble and gentle.
They don’t lash out or bully others.
Their confidence comes from within, not from trying to dominate everyone around them.
Gentleness that inspires
There’s a magnetic quality to meek people.
Their calm presence and wise words have a way of disarming aggression and bringing peace.
The meek don’t need to shout to be heard – their gentle spirit speaks volumes.
They know that trying to force their way isn’t the path to real influence.
True leadership means serving others, not lording over them.
Inheriting the earth
So why does God bless the meek? Because their strength lies in qualities this broken world desperately needs – humility, patience, kindness.
Jesus himself embodied the perfect blend of powerful and meek.
When he returns to restore all things, it’s the meek who will “inherit the earth” and dwell forever in that renewed creation.
Their reward matches their character – an everlasting promised land of peace and plenty.
Until then, the meek point others to the coming Kingdom through their countercultural lives.
In a world that shouts “Look at me!”, they simply look to Christ.
The meek may seem overlooked now, but one day, they’ll be celebrated as royalty in God’s realm.
All because of one surprisingly subversive virtue – meekness.
How to Develop Meekness in Your Life
Reflect on Humility
Meekness begins with humility – the quality of having a modest view of your own importance.
Take time for self-reflection and consider the areas where pride or arrogance may be creeping in.
Ask yourself if you truly listen to others’ perspectives or if you frequently interrupt them.
Observe your inner dialogue – do you dwell on your accomplishments or criticize others harshly?
Practicing gratitude can nurture humility.
Make a habit of acknowledging the contributions of those around you.
An attitude of humble self-awareness paves the way for meekness.
Practice Patience
Meek individuals don’t insist on having the last word or getting their way immediately.
They display patience – even when provoked or faced with opposition.
The next time someone cuts you off in traffic or a coworker speaks over you in a meeting, resist the knee-jerk reaction of anger or retaliation.
Breathe deeply and respond with level-headed calm.
Over time, this restraint will become more natural.
You’ll grow in the spiritual fruit of meekness.
Speak Gently
The Bible tells us, “A gentle answer turns away wrath.” Evaluate the way you communicate – with your spouse, kids, friends and colleagues.
Do you raise your voice frequently? Interrupt others? Speak in harsh tones when displeased?
Meek people choose words carefully and speak softly.
They avoid inflammatory language and personal attacks.
Make a conscious effort to diffuse tense situations by speaking gently yet confidently.
Over time, this gentle approach will take root in your heart and mind.
Show Compassion
Ultimately, meekness is rooted in compassion – the ability to treat others with kindness, even when you disagree with them.
As you go about your day, look for opportunities to show compassion through your actions.
Hold the door for someone behind you.
Let a car merge into your lane.
Check in on an elderly neighbor.
These simple acts reinforce an attitude of meekness.
You’ll find it easier to extend grace, control your temper, and see situations from another’s point of view.
Meekness takes root when compassion becomes second nature.
