What did Jesus mean by Blessed are the meek

What did Jesus mean

Restrain yourself.

Where did Jesus say this

Matthew 5:5 — “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.”

A quick sidenote

The Greek word for meek is praus and means “strength under control.” Imagine a wild horse with immense strength after it’s been trained. The horse has learned how to control its power and work with its trainer. It is not weak; it is restrained.

What Jesus did not mean

In modern language, many people equate “meek” to “timid” or “weak.” But similar to “turn the other cheek,” meek is the opposite of weak. It is powerful. To choose to be restrained — even with such power and strength — is power and strength.

So did Jesus say he wants weak people to inherit the earth? Not at all. He wants strong people, who know how to restrain themselves.

A quick sidenote

Let’s go back to the horse for a second. Some people would say the horse is controlled. But that’s not the case. The horse is not controlled. It could break free and run away. It could decide to hurt the trainer or others in its path. However, it chooses not to. The horse restrains itself and allows the trainer to guide it.

So did Jesus want you to be weak and controlled by others? Not at all. He wants people who are so strong, that they’re strong enough to show restraint.

In fact, Jesus uses the same word to describe himself. Multiple times.

Matthew 11:28–29 — “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle [praus] and humble in heart.”

Matthew 21:5 — “See, your king comes to you, gentle [praus] and riding on a donkey.”

Where to start

In the moments where you struggle with restraint, pause and listen. Pray (talk) to Jesus, and while doing so, listen to your thoughts and understand where they can take you.

If your first thoughts are something similar to “I’ll show them,” then maybe pause for a bit longer.

The goal is to truly understand the intention behind showing strength or power in that particular moment. Actually dissect those first impulses and those initial thoughts and map out where you would end up if you followed through with them.

In some cases, you might physically end up somewhere you don’t want to be. In other cases, you might emotionally end up somewhere you don’t want to be.

And in a few cases, you might actually need to demonstrate that power. But it’s still important to pause and listen, and pray. Have a conversation with yourself and with Jesus before you exert yourself over someone else.

Benefits

The funny thing about restraining and holding back your strength and power is that you will feel more powerful in doing so.

You will feel more controlled. More regulated. More grounded. And that’s pretty nice, isn’t it?

Blessed are the meek / Restrain yourself