Meekness
Meekness is to reject every thought and action of external coercion, hostility, and violence. It is to be gentle and kind, and to be empty of all selfishness and earthly ambition.
Church teachings
The Orthodox Church teaches never to return evil for evil, but always in everything to overcome evil by good. It means that meekness is to have the firm and calm conviction that the good is more powerful than evil, and that the good ultimately is always victorious.
From Matthew’s Gospel: All things have been delivered to me by my Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son, and any one to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him. Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. (11:27-30)
Blessed meekness is an essential possession for the spiritual person, Jesus was meek person. In order to become one with God, one is to exhibit meekness, as the Lord Himself says: Come unto Me…and learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly in heart; and you shall find rest unto your souls (Matthew 11:28-29).
External links
- On Meekness, Humility and Love - Archbishop Seraphim (Sobolev) of Sophia
- Meekness - V. Rev. Thomas Hopko
| This article forms part of the series Orthodox Spirituality |
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