What Does “Meek” Mean in the Bible?

The Greek word translated as “meek” in Mt 5:5 is πραΰς (praus), which means gentle, humble, or having strength under control. It is the antithesis of self-will, self-interest, and self-assertiveness. It does not mean timidity or passivity, but rather a willing submission to God. Biblical meekness involves humility, gentleness, self-control and trust in God. Humility is in recognizing our dependence on God. Our gentleness is in responding with grace, even in conflict. We exercise self-control when we do not retaliate when we are wronged. Above all, we put our trust in God when we rely on His justice rather than in seeking revenge. In contrast, the world does not show biblical meekness when it values aggression, dominance, and self-promotion, against what Jesus teaches on true greatness which comes through humility and trust in God. Jesus is the perfect example of meekness. He embodied meekness throughout His life. He, the King of kings, was born in a humble manger (Luke 2:7). He lived as a servant rather than demanded honour (Mark 10:45). He invited people, without heed to their status, to come to Him, describing Himself as “gentle and humble in heart” (Matt 11:29). Instead of responding to insults with anger, He remained silent before His accusers (Isa 53:7, Mt 26:63). Even in death, though He had the power to call upon angels (Mt 26:53), Jesus chose the path of suffering on the cross for our salvation. His meekness was not weakness. It was power under control used for God’s purpose. Thus, when we think of meekness, we should look to Jesus as our model. He had all authority and power, yet He submitted to God’s will and served others selflessly. Let us not be like the world, which treats aggression and selfishness as authority and power. With meekness, also comes the promise from God that “They Will Inherit the Earth”. What will we then inherit? Jesus promises an inheritance of a future promise and a present blessing. The future promise is the coming Kingdom of God, where the righteous will reign with Christ (Rev 21:1-3). In the new heaven and new earth, those who trust in God will receive an everlasting inheritance. Meanwhile, we will have a present blessing in spiritual inheritance of peace (Psa 37:11). We are free from the burden of pride and anger. At the same time, we are content, knowing God is in control. When we read this Beatitude in the New Testament, and it was also written about in Psa 37:11, “But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy peace and prosperity.” While the world chases power, the meek rest in God’s promises and receive true fulfilment.

How can we cultivate meekness in our lives?

We are to submit to God’s will. We need to trust His timing and purposes (Prov 3:5-6). We are to surrender pride and self-sufficiency. We are also to be gentle in speech and actions. In Prov 15:1, God tells us that “A gentle answer turns away wrath.” Our response to conflicts and difficult situations should always be with grace and not anger. When we face confrontation, do not rush to defend yourself, but rather let God be our defender (Exod 14:14). Let us learn to wait on the Lord (Isa 40:31). The world strongly proposes strength in the need for control. Godly meekness means releasing the desire to always be “right” or “in charge.” It also means that we learn to trust that God is sovereign over every situation. Above all else, we are to follow Jesus’ example. We should read and meditate on His life in the Gospels. Through it, we are to imitate His humility and service (Phil 2:5-8). In conclusion, let us live as the meek who will inherit the earth, as how Jesus teaches. The world may see meekness as a weakness, but Jesus redefines true strength. The meek trusts in God, surrenders his will, and reflects on Christ’s humility. He will experience peace on earth and inherit God’s eternal Kingdom one day.

Let us always be mindful of the following: 1. Do I struggle with pride or the need for control? 2. How can I respond more gently in difficult situations? 3. In what areas of my life do I need to trust God more? May our prayer be “Lord, teach me to be meek as Jesus was. Help me trust You, respond with gentleness, and surrender my will to Yours. May I live in a way that reflects Your kingdom. Amen.”