Who Are the Meek? Exploring Biblical Teachings on Meekness
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Who are the meek in scripture? This question invites us to explore a biblical virtue often misunderstood or overlooked. In both the Old and New Testaments, meekness is described as a blend of humility, gentleness, and strength, rather than weakness or passivity. It involves a deep trust in God and a calm, confident approach to life’s challenges.
In this post we’ll unpack the rich meanings of meekness in scripture, offering insights into how this quality is both a divine strength and a call to compassionate living.
Meekness in the Old Testament: The Hebrew Perspective
In the Old Testament, the Hebrew words anav (עָנָו) and ani (עָנִי) are often translated as “meek” or “humble.” These words encompass a range of meanings, including humility, gentleness, and even affliction. They describe a person who acknowledges their dependence on God and recognizes their limitations.
Anav is notably used in describing Moses, one of the greatest leaders in Israel’s history. Numbers 12:3 states:
“Now the man Moses was very humble, more than any man who was on the face of the earth.”
NASB
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This verse emphasizes Moses’ humility and his refusal to rely on his own strength, instead choosing to depend entirely on God’s guidance and power. Moses’ meekness is highlighted in his willingness to intercede for the Israelites, even when they rebelled against God (Exodus 32:11-14).
Ani, another word for meekness, often refers to those who are humble or poor. In Psalm 37:11, it says:
“But the humble shall inherit the land, and delight themselves in abundant peace.”
JPS Tanakh
This verse underscores the idea that meekness is not about weakness but about finding strength in submission to God’s will. The meek are those who trust in God’s justice and wait patiently for His deliverance.
The Old Testament prophets also speak of meekness in connection with righteousness and justice. Isaiah 61:1 says:
“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the afflicted; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to captives and freedom to prisoners.”
NASB
The term “afflicted” (ani) here can be interpreted as “meek,” highlighting God’s special concern for the humble and oppressed. This passage points to a divine mission of comfort and liberation for those who are downtrodden, linking meekness with divine compassion and justice.
We do have a Basic Beginner’s Biblical Hebrew course if you would like to begin exploring the Hebrew Language!
Meekness in the New Testament: The Greek Perspective
In the New Testament, the Greek root word praus (πραΰς) is used to describe meekness. This term conveys a sense of gentleness, mildness, and humility, particularly in one’s disposition and behavior. It implies a controlled strength that is patient and kind, even in the face of provocation.
One of the most famous references to meekness in the New Testament is found in the Beatitudes. In Matthew 5:5, Yeshua (Jesus) says:
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.”
NASB
This statement is revolutionary because it suggests, in opposition to what the world teaches, that those who are gentle and humble, rather than aggressive and dominant, will ultimately receive God’s blessings. The promise of inheriting the earth echoes Old Testament themes and reassures believers that meekness aligns with God’s values and will be rewarded.
Yeshua Himself is the epitome of meekness. In Matthew 11:29, He invites His followers:
“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.”
NASB
The word “gentle” here translates the Greek root word praus, reflecting Yeshua’s humble nature. Despite His divine authority, Yeshua chose to live humbly, serving others and submitting to the Father’s will, even to the point of death (Philippians 2:5-8).
The Apostle Paul also emphasizes meekness as a vital Christian virtue. In Galatians 5:23, he lists “gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law,” as part of the fruit of the Spirit. Here, meekness (praus) is associated with self-control, suggesting that it involves a mastery over your emotions and actions. It is a deliberate choice to respond with patience and kindness rather than anger or retaliation.
In Ephesians 4:2, Paul further advises believers to:
“…walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love.”
NASB
The word “gentleness” (praus) highlights the importance of meekness in maintaining unity and peace within the Christian community. It involves bearing with others’ faults and weaknesses, prioritizing love and forgiveness over judgment and condemnation.
Meekness and the Beatitudes
The Beatitudes present a vision of God’s Kingdom that upends conventional human values. When Yeshua says, “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5), He is affirming that true strength lies not in aggression or domination but in gentleness and humility.
This teaching draws from the Old Testament, particularly Psalm 37:11, which states:
“But the humble shall inherit the land, and delight themselves in abundant peace.”
JSP Tanakh
Both passages promise that those who live humbly and meekly will receive God’s blessings, both in this world and in the olam haba or “world to come”.
The Beatitudes suggest a future reality where God’s justice and peace prevail, and the meek, often overlooked or undervalued by the world, are recognized and rewarded. This eschatological hope encourages believers to cultivate meekness, trusting in God’s ultimate plan and timing rather than seeking immediate gratification or power.
The Role of Meekness in Women’s Lives
Meekness, as defined biblically, does not imply inferiority or passivity, especially concerning women. Instead, it embodies a strength that is expressed through humility and gentle strength.
Proverbs 31 provides a portrait of the “virtuous woman” (eshet chayil, אֵשֶׁת חַיִל), who is characterized by her wisdom, dignity, and strong character. Proverbs 31:25-26 states:
“Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future. She opens her mouth in wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.”
NASB
This depiction of the virtuous woman highlights that meekness involves a wise and gentle strength, not weakness or submission to unjust authority.
Biblical women like Esther, Ruth, and Mary, the mother of Yeshua, exemplify this kind of meekness. Esther’s courageous actions in saving her people, as seen in Esther 4:16, demonstrate a boldness that coexists with humility.
Ruth’s loyalty and humility in her relationship with Naomi and Boaz (Ruth 1:16-17) showcase her gentle strength. Mary’s acceptance of her role in God’s plan, despite the potential repercussions, reflects a profound humility and trust in God (Luke 1:38).
These women’s stories show that meekness is not about being passive or subservient. Instead, it involves a deliberate and often courageous choice to trust in God’s justice and act in ways that align with His will, even when it requires personal sacrifice or defies societal norms.
Meekness and Social Justice
Meekness is closely related to themes of justice and righteousness in the Bible. It is not about passivity in the face of injustice but about responding to injustice with patience, humility, and a commitment to God’s righteousness. The meek trust that God is ultimately in control and that He will bring about justice in His time.
Isaiah 61:1 speaks of a mission to:
“…bring good news to the afflicted; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to captives and freedom to prisoners.”
NASB
The word “afflicted” here can also be interpreted as “meek,” reflecting a divine concern for those who are humble and oppressed. This verse highlights the active role of the meek in promoting justice and healing in society.
Meekness involves a commitment to standing up for the oppressed and marginalized, advocating for justice while maintaining a spirit of humility and grace.
The Meek Shall Inherit the Earth
The promise that “the meek shall inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5) and “the humble will inherit the land and will delight themselves in abundant peace” (Psalm 37:11) underscores a profound truth about God’s Kingdom. This inheritance is not about worldly power or wealth but about a deeper, spiritual fulfillment that comes from living in alignment with God’s will. It speaks to a future reality where those who live gently and humbly will experience true peace and security.
This promise also reassures the meek that their quiet strength and patience are not in vain. In a world that often values assertiveness and aggression, the biblical message is clear: true blessing and inheritance come to those who are meek, who trust in God and live according to His values.
My Final Thoughts: Who Are the Meek?
So to sum up the answer to the question “who are the meek?”, they are individuals who, regardless of whether they are male or female, exhibit humility, gentleness, and self-control. The biblical portrayal of meekness involves a strength that is expressed through a calm and patient demeanor, a deep trust in God’s justice, and a commitment to living righteously.
Far from being a call to weakness or subservience, meekness is a powerful force for good, enabling believers to navigate life’s challenges with grace and to advocate for justice and peace. For women and men alike, embracing meekness means living with integrity, strength, and a quiet confidence in God’s promises, trusting that in the end, the meek will indeed inherit the earth.
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NASB – “Scripture quotations taken from the NASB. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation“
Tanakh: a New Translation of the Holy Scriptures According to the Traditional Hebrew Text. Philadelphia: Jewish Publication Society, 1985
Smiling and cringing at the same time over this post, because I’ve had the same wonderings myself. Somewhere I read about a woman who wants to have on her tombstone the words, “Demure at Last.” Yes!
Oh that is hilarious Michele!!! I might just do that LOL
Why can’t I be meek and mild like other women? Because God didn’t knit me together that way. I realized a long time ago that God created me uniquely, therefore, I don’t try to fit in or be like others. I’m perfectly fine being who God made me.
I wish other meek and mild women would stop pushing the narrative that says “good” Christian women are meek and mild. It’s pushed throughout the church/Christian community and it’s not true.
God created us all uniquely for his purpose. The world would be a hot mess if every woman were meek and mild. We need bold, warrior women too.
Amen!! We are who God created us to be. I had to come to that realization and stop trying to be who other people were. But I also believe we can be warrior women AND be gentle in spirit in how we reflect Christ to others. Thank you Yvonne!
Women were meek and mild to a point. They were strong fierce and steadfast in their belief. Meek and mild is humble and giving of service. Different meanings back than
Meek and mild as a Christian translates more to being slow to anger, gentle, showing Jesus through your interactions with others. Thank you Candy!
I loved reading this as I inserted my own vices that I fuss with every morning. How wonderful that God works with us from where we are, and molds us slowly without ever taking away from our individuality.
Amen!! Thank you Brittany!!
Thanks for this excellent post. I can completely identify with this. Not necessarily the desire to be meek and mild, but to conform to the behaviour of other Christians and seem more like them in order to fit in and be accepted. This happens not only in the behaviour expected of us but also the way we do certain ministries.
When you get into that whole mindset and everyone around you is telling you to do it one way and saying that if you don’t, there’s something wrong with you or that you can’t be in leadership/ serving/ whatever it might be, that’s when you stop being the unique person God created you to be. There can easily be people in influential positions who think there’s only one way to do things and can’t conceive of any other way. I think this has been a constant struggle over the years in different church circles. When you don’t conform, you’re seen as difficult or unable to fit in, when in fact God may be calling you to be different in the first place.
Excellent points Robert!! And I think this happens more than we care to think about in the church! God uses us because we are all different..the Bible even speaks of that when it says we are all different yet parts of one body! Thank you so much for sharing!!
@Robert,
You nailed it! You said everything I tried to say in my comment. Thank you.
This!!! “I was asking Him to make me like other people rather than make me what HE wanted me to be.” This particular line got me. Thanks for writing this!
Thank you Erin!!!
Very good! It’s definitely a balance between “dying to self” and “being who God created you to be”. I’m glad to know I’m not the only Christian out there who struggles with being more than a little outside the box. God is good, and He created us uniquely, and for that, I am greatful!!
Very well said!! Thank you so much!!
This has been my struggle too. I never seem to really fit in, but I know God uses that “differentness” to attract other people in the margins.
Amen!! He sure does!
Diane, I really enjoyed reading this. Although, I am on the opposite end of the spectrum from you. I wish that I could be more outgoing, be more brave, just be more. God is in control and He knows what He is doing. I will trust Him to guide me where He wants me to go.
Yes!! It works both ways I guess..just like those like me with curly hair always wish it was straight and women with straight hair always want curly LOL
YES! Trying to be more like CHRIST, not like other women!! That is my constant struggle too! Particularly because my mother in law, and sister in law set the bar very VERY high when it comes to begin a woman “with a gentle and quiet spirit.” And they are both the epitome of a “good Christian housewife.” I am always worrying that I’m not being enough for my husband, based on knowing what kind of mom and sister he grew up with. But I’m learning that my focus should be on who God wants ME to be as ME, not as someone else. Thank you so much for this reminder!
Yes that is exactly how I felt!! Thank you for sharing!!!