### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective πραΰς (praÿs, `{{G4239}}`) is a profound term, often translated as "meek" or "gentle." Its core meaning conveys a disposition of mildness, gentleness, and quietness. Importantly, this is not to be confused with weakness, timidity, or a lack of conviction. Rather, it signifies strength under control, a disciplined power that refrains from harshness, arrogance, or quick temper. By implication, it leads to humility, as one who is πραΰς is not prone to self-assertion or domination. It is closely related to πρᾷος (praos), which shares the same semantic range, with πραΰς being the more common form in the New Testament. The semantic range extends from a gentle demeanor to a humble spirit that is patient and forbearing, especially in the face of injustice or opposition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term πραΰς appears a few times in the New Testament, each instance offering rich theological insight:
* **[[Matthew 5:5]]**: "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth." This is a direct quotation from [[Psalm 37:11]] (LXX). Here, meekness is presented as a virtue that attracts divine blessing and promises ultimate vindication and possession. It implies a trusting reliance on God's justice rather than self-vindication.
* **[[Matthew 11:29]]**: "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." In this pivotal passage, Jesus describes Himself as πραΰς (gentle) and ταπεινός (tapeinos, `{{G5011}}`, humble). This self-description is foundational, presenting Jesus not as an authoritarian taskmaster, but as an approachable, compassionate Lord whose authority is exercised with perfect self-control and humility, offering genuine rest.
* **[[Matthew 21:5]]**: "Say to the daughter of Zion, 'Behold, your King is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.'" This verse, a fulfillment of [[Zechariah 9:9]], describes Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem. His πραΰς (humble/gentle) character is underscored by His choice of a donkey, symbolizing peace and humility, contrasting sharply with the warhorse of a conquering king. It reveals the nature of His kingship as one of peace and service, not military might.
* **[[1 Peter 3:4]]**: "but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious." Here, πραΰς is used in conjunction with ἡσύχιος (hesychios, `{{G2272}}`, quiet) to describe an inner spiritual beauty for Christian women. It emphasizes an inner disposition of tranquility, peace, and non-contentiousness that is highly valued by God, contrasting with outward, fleeting adornment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of πραΰς is illuminated by its relationship to several other Greek and Hebrew terms:
* **πρᾷος (praos)**: As noted, this is an alternative form of the same word, often used interchangeably, carrying the same meaning of gentle or mild.
* **πραΰτης (praÿtēs, `{{G4236}}`)**: This is the noun form, meaning "meekness" or "gentleness." It is famously listed as a "fruit of the Spirit" in [[Galatians 5:23]] and is encouraged in Christian leadership (e.g., [[2 Timothy 2:25]], [[Titus 3:2]]).
* **ταπεινός (tapeinos, `{{G5011}}`)**: "Humble" or "lowly." Often paired with πραΰς, as seen in [[Matthew 11:29]]. While πραΰς emphasizes gentleness and self-control, ταπεινός highlights lowliness of mind and freedom from pride. They are complementary virtues, indicating a humble disposition before God and others.
* **ἐπιεικής (epieikēs, `{{G1933}}`)**: "Gentle," "reasonable," "fair," "forbearing." This term shares semantic overlap, conveying a disposition of mildness and reasonableness, especially in dealing with others.
* **μακροθυμία (makrothymia, `{{G3115}}`)**: "Patience," "long-suffering." Meekness often manifests as patient endurance, particularly in the face of provocation or injustice.
* **ἀνεξίκακος (anexikakos, `{{G429}}`)**: "Patient in enduring evil," "forbearing." This describes the practical manifestation of meekness when confronted with wrongdoing.
* **Hebrew Parallel (עָנָו - anav, `{{H6035}}`)**: The Old Testament concept of anav (meek, humble, afflicted) provides a crucial backdrop. Moses is described as "very meek" ([[Numbers 12:3]]), demonstrating that meekness is compatible with strong leadership and divine empowerment. [[Psalm 37:11]], the source of [[Matthew 5:5]], uses anav for those who will inherit the earth.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of πραΰς is profound and multifaceted:
* **Christological Perfection**: The supreme theological import of πραΰς lies in its application to Jesus Christ. His self-description as "gentle and humble in heart" ([[Matthew 11:29]]) reveals a foundational aspect of His divine character. Christ's meekness is not a lack of power, but the perfect control of infinite power, making Him approachable and His yoke light. He is the πραΰς King who enters Jerusalem on a donkey, signifying a reign of peace and humility, not worldly conquest.
* **Beatitude and Discipleship**: As a beatitude ([[Matthew 5:5]]), meekness is a foundational virtue for those who follow Christ. It signifies a humble reliance on God's sovereignty, a willingness to forgo self-assertion and retaliation, and a posture of patient endurance, trusting God for ultimate justice and inheritance. It is a counter-cultural virtue in a world that often values aggression and dominance.
* **Fruit of the Spirit**: The related noun πραΰτης (`{{G4236}}`) is listed among the "fruit of the Spirit" ([[Galatians 5:23]]), indicating that true meekness is not merely a human effort but a supernatural work of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life. It is a divine enablement for living a Christ-like life.
* **Christian Conduct and Relationships**: Meekness is exhorted as a vital quality for believers in their interactions with others. It fosters peace, reconciliation, and reflects the character of God. In [[1 Peter 3:4]], it is presented as an inner beauty that is precious in God's sight, emphasizing the importance of an inner disposition over outward appearance.
* **Contrast with Worldly Values**: πραΰς stands in stark contrast to the world's emphasis on pride, power, and self-assertion. It challenges human notions of strength, redefining it as self-control, humility, and a quiet trust in God, rather than outward aggression or dominance.
### Summary
πραΰς (`{{G4239}}`) is a rich Greek term signifying "mildness," "gentleness," and "humility," but crucially, it denotes strength under control rather than weakness. It is a defining characteristic of Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodies this virtue as the "gentle and humble" King, offering rest to weary souls. For the disciple, πραΰς is a blessed disposition, promising inheritance of the earth, and is cultivated as a fruit of the Holy Spirit. It guides Christian conduct in relationships, fostering peace and reflecting an inner beauty that is highly valued by God. This profound quality stands in counter-cultural opposition to worldly power dynamics, demonstrating a true reliance on divine sovereignty and a humble spirit before God and humanity.
TRV