Matthew 5:5

KJV

Blessed [are] the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

KJV (with Strong's)

Blessed {G3107} are the meek {G4239}: for {G3754} they {G846} shall inherit {G2816} the earth {G1093}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"How blessed are the meek! for they will inherit the Land!k

Berean Standard Bible

Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.

American Standard Version

Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 5:5, the third Beatitude, declares a profound spiritual truth: those who embody meekness—a gentle strength rooted in humility and trust in God—are blessed with the ultimate promise of inheriting the earth. This counter-intuitive pronouncement challenges worldly notions of power and success, revealing that true blessedness and lasting dominion belong not to the aggressive or self-assertive, but to those who humbly submit to God's will and patiently await His vindication and provision.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Matthew 5:5 is strategically positioned within the opening pronouncements of Jesus' [Sermon on the Mount](/matthew/5-1 "Matthew 5:1 - The Sermon on the Mount Begins"), a foundational discourse that outlines the ethical and spiritual principles of the Kingdom of Heaven. Following the blessings for the [poor in spirit](/matthew/5-3 "Matthew 5:3 - The Poor in Spirit") (those who recognize their spiritual bankruptcy and dependence on God) and [those who mourn](/matthew/5-4 "Matthew 5:4 - Those Who Mourn") (who grieve over sin and the brokenness of the world), the blessing on the meek continues to subvert conventional wisdom. These initial Beatitudes progressively reveal the character traits of true disciples, moving from an internal spiritual posture to an outward disposition, setting the stage for the radical demands and transformative nature of Kingdom living described in the rest of [Matthew 5](/matthew/5 "Matthew 5 - The Sermon on the Mount").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of "meekness" (πραΰς, _praÿs_) was often viewed with disdain, associated with weakness, servility, or a lack of ambition. Society valued assertiveness, strength, honor, and the ability to assert one's rights and achieve dominance. Within Jewish thought, while there was a tradition of humility and reliance on God (e.g., Moses), the longing for a Messiah who would militarily overthrow Roman oppression and restore Israel's earthly kingdom was strong. Jesus' declaration of blessedness for the meek directly challenged both prevailing pagan and popular Jewish expectations, presenting a revolutionary ethic where spiritual virtues, not worldly power or aggression, were the path to true blessedness and ultimate inheritance. The promise of "inheriting the earth" would resonate deeply with Israel's historical connection to the Promised Land, but Jesus redefines its scope and means of acquisition.
* **Key Themes:** This Beatitude contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Matthew's Gospel and the Sermon on the Mount. It underscores the theme of **Kingdom Reversal**, where God's values dramatically differ from the world's, elevating the humble and gentle over the proud and powerful. It highlights the **Nature of True Discipleship**, emphasizing that authentic followers of Christ exhibit an inner disposition of humility and reliance on God, rather than self-assertion. Furthermore, it introduces the theme of **Divine Justice and Vindication**, assuring that God will ultimately right wrongs and bestow lasting blessings upon those who trust in Him, even when they are overlooked or oppressed by human systems. The promise of "inheriting the earth" also points to the ultimate **Restoration and Renewal of Creation**, a central hope within biblical theology, where God's people will dwell securely in His eternal kingdom.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Blessed (Greek, _makários'_):** This word signifies a state of supreme happiness, fortunate well-being, or divine favor. It describes an inner joy and spiritual prosperity that is independent of external circumstances, stemming from a right relationship with God and His approval. It is not merely a wish or a human emotion, but a declaration of divine blessing bestowed upon those who possess the described quality.
* **meek (Greek, _praÿs'_):** Derived from a primary word, _praÿs_ describes someone who is mild, gentle, and by implication, humble. It does not denote weakness, timidity, or spinelessness. Instead, it refers to a controlled strength, a power that is harnessed and submitted to a higher authority. A meek person is not easily provoked, exercises patience, and relies on God for vindication rather than aggressively asserting their own rights or seeking revenge. It is often used to describe a tamed animal—powerful, but under the master's control.
* **inherit (Greek, _klēronoméō'_):** From _klēronomos_ (an heir), this verb means "to be an heir to" or "to obtain by inheritance." It implies receiving something as a rightful possession, often as a legacy or a divinely appointed portion. In this context, it speaks of a secure and lasting possession, not through conquest or human effort, but as a gift from God.
* **earth (Greek, _gē'_):** This term can refer to soil, a region, the solid part of the globe, or the whole terrene globe, including its occupants. In the Old Testament, "the land" often referred to the Promised Land. Here, in the New Testament, it expands to encompass the entire world, both in its present form and, more profoundly, in its renewed, eschatological state as God's eternal kingdom.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Blessed are the meek":** This opening clause declares God's favor and spiritual well-being upon those who embody meekness. It challenges the world's definition of strength, asserting that true blessedness comes not from outward power or aggression, but from an inward disposition of humility, gentleness, and submission to God's will. This state of being is a gift from God, enabling a peaceful and contented heart.
* **"for they shall inherit the earth":** This second clause provides the reason and the promise for the meek's blessedness. The "inheritance of the earth" is a profound and multi-layered promise. It echoes [Psalm 37:11](/psalms/37-11 "Psalm 37:11 - The Meek Inherit the Earth"), linking Jesus' teaching directly to Old Testament promises. This inheritance signifies not only a future, spiritual dominion over God's renewed creation (the "new heaven and new earth" of [Revelation 21:1](/revelation/21-1 "Revelation 21:1 - The New Heaven and New Earth")), but also a present, experiential peace and contentment in this life. The meek, by trusting God, are freed from the anxieties of striving and asserting, finding true security and belonging in God's provision and ultimate reign.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 5:5 employs several powerful literary devices. **Paradox** is central, as Jesus pronounces blessing and inheritance upon those whom the world typically considers weak or insignificant. This inversion of worldly values is a hallmark of the Beatitudes and the Kingdom of Heaven. The phrase "inherit the earth" is a clear **Allusion** to [Psalm 37:11](/psalms/37-11 "Psalm 37:11 - The Meek Shall Inherit the Earth"), directly connecting Jesus' teaching to the wisdom tradition of the Old Testament and affirming the continuity of God's promises. This allusion also functions as a **Metaphor** for ultimate spiritual dominion and secure dwelling in God's eternal kingdom, transcending a mere physical land claim. The concise and declarative nature of the statement also gives it the force of an **Aphorism**, a pithy saying that encapsulates a profound truth.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 5:5 profoundly connects to the broader theological landscape by redefining power and success through a divine lens. It asserts that true strength is not found in self-assertion or aggression, but in a humble, God-dependent spirit. This meekness is not passivity, but a disciplined strength under divine control, reflecting God's own character and His way of working in the world. The promise of "inheriting the earth" signifies God's ultimate justice and the secure, lasting reign of His people in His eschatological kingdom. It underscores the biblical theme of God's faithfulness to His promises, ensuring that those who align with His character will ultimately receive the fullness of His blessings, both now and in the new creation.

* [Numbers 12:3](/numbers/12-3 "Numbers 12:3 - Moses' Meekness")
* [Psalm 37:11](/psalms/37-11 "Psalm 37:11 - The Meek Shall Inherit the Earth")
* [Matthew 11:29](/matthew/11-29 "Matthew 11:29 - Jesus' Meekness and Lowliness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 5:5 calls believers to a radical re-evaluation of what constitutes true strength and success in a world that often champions assertiveness and self-promotion. To embrace meekness is to cultivate a spirit that is gentle, patient, and humble, not easily provoked, and willing to defer to God's timing and justice rather than seeking immediate personal vindication. This means consciously relinquishing the need to always be right, to have the last word, or to fight for our own perceived rights. Instead, it invites us to trust in God's sovereign control, believing that He is our ultimate vindicator and provider. Practically, this translates into responding with grace in conflict, forgiving those who wrong us, and patiently enduring injustice, knowing that our ultimate inheritance and security are found in Christ, not in what we can grasp or control in this fleeting world. Cultivating meekness frees us from the exhausting cycle of striving and allows us to live with a peace that transcends circumstances, rooted in the assurance of God's unfailing promises.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I struggle to exhibit meekness, preferring to assert my own will or rights?**
* **How does my understanding of "strength" align or conflict with Jesus' definition of meekness in this verse?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to cultivate a more meek and gentle spirit in my interactions with others?**
* **How does the promise of "inheriting the earth" reshape my priorities and aspirations in the present?**

### FAQ
**Does "inherit the earth" refer only to a future spiritual inheritance, or does it have present-day implications?**

Answer: While the primary and ultimate fulfillment of "inheriting the earth" points to a future, spiritual inheritance in God's eternal kingdom—the [new heaven and new earth](/revelation/21-1 "Revelation 21:1 - The New Heaven and New Earth") where God's people will reign with Him—it also carries significant present-day implications. The meek, by their very nature, are not driven by ambition, greed, or the need to control. This frees them from much of the anxiety and conflict that plague those who strive for worldly power or possessions. They find a deeper peace, contentment, and security in God's provision, often experiencing greater relational harmony and inner stability. In this sense, they "inherit" a quality of life on earth that is characterized by divine blessing, even amidst trials. Their humble and gentle spirit allows them to truly enjoy and steward the blessings God provides, rather than being consumed by the pursuit of more. Thus, it is both a present spiritual reality and a future eschatological promise.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 5:5 finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect embodiment in Jesus Christ Himself. He is the supremely meek one, declaring in [Matthew 11:29](/matthew/11-29 "Matthew 11:29 - Jesus' Meekness and Lowliness"), "Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart." Unlike worldly conquerors who seize power through force, Jesus demonstrated divine power under perfect control, submitting to the Father's will even unto death on the cross ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humiliation and Exaltation")). His meekness was not weakness, but the ultimate expression of strength and self-control, leading Him to willingly lay down His life for the salvation of the world. Through His obedient sacrifice and resurrection, Jesus truly "inherited the earth"—not as a mere physical territory, but as the King of kings and Lord of lords, to whom all authority in heaven and on earth has been given ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - The Great Commission")). As believers, we become co-heirs with Christ ([Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ")), participating in His inheritance through our union with Him. The meekness we are called to cultivate is a reflection of His character, and the "earth" we are promised is not merely a piece of land, but the new creation over which Christ reigns, where we will dwell securely with Him forever.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 37:11

But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.

Isaiah 29:19

The meek also shall increase [their] joy in the LORD, and the poor among men shall rejoice in the Holy One of Israel.

James 3:13

¶ Who [is] a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.

Psalms 149:4

For the LORD taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation.

Galatians 5:23

Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

Numbers 12:3

(Now the man Moses [was] very meek, above all the men which [were] upon the face of the earth.)

Colossians 3:12

¶ Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;