Beatitudes, the

The blessings pronounced by Jesus Christ in the Sermon on the Mount on those whose lives exhibit particular characteristics or qualities. These contrast sharply with popular values and outlooks.

The poor in spirit

Matthew 5:3 parallel Luke 6:20 See also Psalm 69:32–33; Isaiah 61:1; Matthew 23:12; Luke 18:9–14

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Those who mourn

Matthew 5:4 parallel Luke 6:21 See also Psalm 51:17; Isaiah 57:18–21, Isaiah 61:1–3; Jeremiah 31:13; Revelation 7:17, Revelation 21:4

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

The meek

Matthew 5:5 See also Psalm 37:11; Zephaniah 3:11–12; Matthew 11:29

Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.

Those who hunger after righteousness

Matthew 5:6 parallel Luke 6:21 See also Isaiah 55:1–2; Matthew 6:33; 2 Timothy 2:22; 1 Peter 3:12

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

The merciful

Matthew 5:7 See also Exodus 34:6–7; Daniel 9:9; Matthew 6:12 parallel Luke 11:4; Matthew 6:14–15, Matthew 18:21–35; Luke 6:36; James 2:13

Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.

The pure in heart

Matthew 5:8 See also Psalm 24:3–5, Psalm 51:10, Psalm 73:1; 1 John 3:2–3

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

The peacemakers

Matthew 5:9 See also Psalm 34:14; Matthew 5:44–45; Romans 12:18, Romans 14:19; 2 Timothy 2:22; James 3:17–18

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.

The righteous who suffer persecution

Matthew 5:10–12 parallel Luke 6:22 See also John 15:18–21; 2 Timothy 3:10–12; James 1:12; 1 Peter 3:14, 1 Peter 3:17, 1 Peter 4:12–16

Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets before you.