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