Meekness or gentleness is exemplified by God (2 Samuel 22:36 , Psalm 18:35 ), Moses (Numbers 12:1-13 ), and Jesus (Zechariah 9:9 , Matthew 11:29 , Matthew 12:14-21; Matthew 21:5 ). In the Old Testament the meek were often the poor and the oppressed (Amos 2:7; Amos 8:4; Job 24:4; Psalm 9:18; Proverbs 3:34; Proverbs 16:19 ). The Hebrew word translated meek (anaw ) means, “wretched, impoverished, oppressed, in need, bowed over,” but came to mean, “humble, pious.”
The meek receive the special concern of God and are called blessed (Psalm 37:11; Matthew 5:5 ). God identifies with the poor and oppressed, hears their pleas, and helps them (Psalm 10:17; Psalm 22:26; Psalm 25:9; Psalm 147:6; Psalm 149:4 ). The Messiah will also have a special ministry to the meek (Isaiah 11:4; Isaiah 61:1; Luke 4:18 ).
Christians are encouraged to be meek (Ephesians 4:1-2; Colossians 3:12 ). Meekness is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23 ) and should mark the Christian's attitude toward sinners (Galatians 6:1 ). Paul was meek with the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 4:21 ). Pastors should be meek and teach meekness (1 Timothy 6:11; 2 Timothy 2:25; Titus 3:2 ). Christians should receive God's Word with meekness (James 1:21 ). Wisdom is expressed with meekness (James 3:13 ). Christian wives can witness to their unbelieving husbands with their meek spirit (1 Peter 3:1-4 ). All Christians should be prepared to give a defense of their faith in meekness (1 Peter 3:15 ). See Humility; Patience; Pride; Poor; Spiritual Gifts .
Warren McWilliams
The product of over 6 years of work by hundreds of people, the Holman Bible Dictionary manages to be readable and easy to use, yet take advantage of the finest modern Bible scholarship without heavy technical language. The over 6,600 entries includes extensive cross-referencing of related articles, and quotes from 6 different Bible translations.Wikipedia
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