"And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying, Blessed are..." — Matthew 5:2-3

The Beatitudes open Jesus' Sermon on the Mount with eight statements that revolutionize how we understand blessing and happiness. These are not rules to follow but descriptions of Kingdom citizens.

What "Blessed" Means

The Greek word "makarios" means more than happiness. It describes a deep, settled well-being that comes from God's favor—regardless of circumstances.

The Eight Beatitudes

1. Poor in Spirit

"Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." (v. 3)

Those who recognize their spiritual bankruptcy—their desperate need for God—enter His Kingdom. Pride locks the door; humility opens it.

2. Those Who Mourn

"Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted." (v. 4)

This refers to grief over sin—our own and the world's. God promises comfort to those who take sin seriously.

3. The Meek

"Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth." (v. 5)

Meekness isn't weakness but power under control. The meek trust God rather than pushing their own agenda.

4. Those Who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness

"Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled." (v. 6)

Those who desperately desire holiness—like a starving person craves food—will be satisfied.

5. The Merciful

"Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy." (v. 7)

Those who show compassion to others receive compassion. Mercy given flows back to the giver.

6. The Pure in Heart

"Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God." (v. 8)

Purity means undivided devotion to God—integrity between inner and outer life. Such people encounter God.

7. The Peacemakers

"Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God." (v. 9)

Those who work for reconciliation—between people and God, and between people—reflect their Father's character.

8. The Persecuted

"Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." (v. 10)

Suffering for Christ is actually a blessing, connecting us to the prophets and to Jesus Himself.

Living the Beatitudes

These qualities describe what the Holy Spirit produces in believers. They are not achievements to earn but graces to receive.

"Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven." — Matthew 5:12