Beatitudes
TextsWhat is the meaning of Beatitudes in the Bible?
The Beatitudes constitute a series of declarations of blessedness found in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:3-12) and the Sermon on the Plain (Luke 6:20-23). Matthew's account presents eight or nine blessings focusing on spiritual attitudes, while Luke's version offers four blessings followed by four woes, emphasizing socio-economic reversals.
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the Beatitudes clarifies the ethical framework Jesus established for his followers, revealing how spiritual humility and righteousness are valued over worldly status, thereby providing essential context for interpreting the moral instructions within the New Testament.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Beatitudes in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Beatitudes clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.