Blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the earth.
—Matthew 5:5
In some versions, “The meek” is translated “the humble” or “those of gentle spirit.”
In a world of too much “It’s-all-about-me” aggressiveness, “Blessed are the meek” comes across as weak.
However, it is the opposite of weakness. It requires strength to be free from the desire for me-first privilege. The “meek” character trait regulates attitude regarding both self and others.
Self: “Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought” (Rom 12;3).
Others: “In humility, be moved to treat one another as more important than yourself” (Phil 2:3).
It’s-not-all-about-me enables the possessor of this beatitude to be gentle, humble, sensitive, and patient in all circumstances.
Such a person has an impressive inheritance, for God declares, “Those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted” (Lk 14:11).
Arrogance and meekness can’t
occupy the same space.