What does Matthew 5:5 mean?

Matthew 5:5, part of the famous Sermon on the Mount, reads: "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth" (ESV). This verse is one of the Beatitudes, a series of statements by Jesus that describe the blessed or happy state of those who possess certain qualities or experiences. To fully grasp the meaning of this verse, it is essential to delve into the context of the Beatitudes, the cultural and historical background, and the theological implications.

The word "meek" often conjures images of weakness or passivity in modern English, but the biblical concept is far richer and more nuanced. The Greek word translated as "meek" is "praus," which conveys a sense of gentleness, humility, and controlled strength. Meekness, in the biblical sense, is not about being timid or easily pushed around. Instead, it reflects a disposition of humility and trust in God, a willingness to submit to His will, and a gentle demeanor toward others.

In the cultural context of Jesus' time, meekness was not necessarily a prized virtue. The Roman Empire valued power, dominance, and assertiveness. The idea that the meek would inherit the earth would have sounded countercultural and even paradoxical to Jesus' original audience. Yet, Jesus' teachings often turned conventional wisdom on its head, presenting a kingdom of God that operated on principles vastly different from those of earthly kingdoms.

To understand the promise that the meek "shall inherit the earth," it is helpful to look at the Old Testament background. Psalm 37:11 states, "But the meek shall inherit the land and delight themselves in abundant peace" (ESV). This psalm contrasts the fate of the wicked with that of the righteous, emphasizing that those who trust in the Lord and live righteously will ultimately be vindicated and blessed. Jesus' beatitude echoes this psalm, reinforcing the idea that God's kingdom is characterized by a reversal of worldly values.

The promise of inheriting the earth can be understood on multiple levels. On one level, it points to the eschatological hope of the new heavens and new earth, where God's people will dwell in perfect peace and righteousness (Revelation 21:1-4). This future inheritance is assured for those who belong to Christ, who is described as "gentle and lowly in heart" (Matthew 11:29, ESV). By embodying meekness, believers align themselves with the character of Christ and the values of His kingdom.

On another level, inheriting the earth can also be seen as a present reality. Those who are meek experience a deep sense of contentment and peace, knowing that their lives are in God's hands. They do not need to grasp for power or assert their own rights because they trust in God's provision and justice. This inner peace and trust enable them to navigate the challenges of life with a calm and gentle spirit, which in turn often leads to harmonious relationships and a positive influence on their surroundings.

Theologically, Matthew 5:5 highlights the upside-down nature of God's kingdom. Jesus' beatitudes consistently emphasize that true blessedness is found in qualities and experiences that the world often overlooks or despises. The poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, and those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake—all these are declared blessed by Jesus. This radical redefinition of blessedness challenges believers to reevaluate their own values and priorities in light of God's kingdom.

Moreover, the beatitude of meekness calls believers to a life of humility and gentleness in their interactions with others. The Apostle Paul exhorts Christians to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love" (Ephesians 4:1-2, ESV). Similarly, Peter encourages believers to be prepared to give a reason for their hope "with gentleness and respect" (1 Peter 3:15, ESV). These exhortations reflect the importance of meekness as a fundamental Christian virtue that shapes how believers relate to others and witness to their faith.

In practical terms, cultivating meekness involves a conscious effort to surrender one's own will and ego to God, trusting Him to work out His purposes in His way and time. It means responding to provocation or injustice with patience and grace, rather than retaliation or bitterness. It involves seeking to serve others rather than seeking to dominate or control. This does not mean that meekness is passive or indifferent to injustice; rather, it is a strength under control, a commitment to pursuing justice and righteousness in a manner that reflects the character of Christ.

The promise that the meek will inherit the earth is a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness and the ultimate triumph of His kingdom. It assures believers that their efforts to live meekly in a world that often values the opposite are not in vain. God's kingdom will be established in its fullness, and those who have trusted in Him and embodied His values will share in its glory.

In summary, Matthew 5:5 encapsulates a profound truth about the nature of God's kingdom and the character of those who belong to it. Meekness, far from being a sign of weakness, is a mark of true strength and trust in God. It reflects a heart that is aligned with God's purposes and a life that bears witness to His grace. The promise of inheriting the earth points to both a future hope and a present reality, inviting believers to live with a confident trust in God's provision and a gentle spirit toward others. As we seek to embody this beatitude, we participate in the transformative work of God's kingdom, both in our own lives and in the world around us.