Happy are the objectively minded because they will inherit the earth (Matthew 5:5).
The concept of “meek” in English does not convey the meaning of the Greek word translated in this passage. “Meek” today means to be patient, mild, and gentle in temperament; enduring injury or provocation with forbearance and without resentment. However, πραΰς (praüs) is an adjective in Koine Greek that refers to objectivity of mind. The current concept of meekness is expressed by a different Greek word found in Ephesians 4:2 alongside praüs. Since they are used in the same sentence, connected by the conjunction “and”, we know they are not synonymous with each other.
This means Jesus is not instructing the Jews to be humble, mild, or gentle, but is referring to the one who has an objective frame of mind. This objectivity relates to the promises of the coming Messiah and Kingdom.
The Church has not been revealed; therefore, Jesus is not addressing the Church. In contrast to this promise to the Jew who maintains an objectivity of mind while Israel is in the wilderness, the Christian is to put on objectivity of mind, along with humility, as the elect of God (Colossians 3:12). The Jew who remains focused on God’s word to Israel will be happy because he will inherit the earth. Those of the Church are promised a heavenly residence (Philippians 3:20).
Meekness, in the sense of enduring provocation with forbearance, does not bring happiness to the Christian or the Jew. Rather, it is the objectivity of the mind related to living by faith based upon God’s promises that impacts the mind.
