What is the biblical definition of meekness?
Meekness, or prautes, means 'power under control.' In contrast to its English connotation, which often equates it with weakness, in Greek it describes a fruit of power. It is exemplified by a war horse that possesses phenomenal inherent power but is trained to obey instantly and absolutely. As an inwrought grace of the soul, meekness is first and chiefly exercised toward God, accepting His dealings as good without disputing or resisting (Eph. 4:2; Col. 3:12). This temper of spirit is closely linked with humility and follows it directly. Described negatively, meekness is the opposite of self-interest and self-assertiveness, being an equanimity of spirit that is neither elated nor cast down because it is not occupied with self. The Lord Jesus Christ was meek not because He could not help Himself, but because He had the infinite resources of God at His command and held them under perfect control (Matthew 11:29). Meekness is not a natural disposition or outward behavior, but rather an inwrought grace that demonstrates power under control.
Source: The Basics The Basics — Meekness (canonical doctrine) · Read this lesson in the book →
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Related questions
- What does the Bible teach about the soul, including its strengths and weaknesses, and how it relates to spiritual warfare and the filling of the Holy Spirit?Eph. 4:2 · The Basics
- What does the Bible teach about our inherent power to overcome temptations?Eph. 4:2 · The Basics · Lesson 4–3: Testing—Temptation
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See also
- What is the Bible's doctrine of inspiration, and how does it ensure the accuracy and authority of Scripture?Same lesson · The Basics · Lesson 2–1: The Manual—The Bible
- What is the goal of a Christian's life, and how can it be achieved?Same lesson · The Basics
- What is the Bible's role in training believers in righteousness?Same lesson · The Basics · Lesson 2–1: The Manual—The Bible
- What does the Bible teach about the righteousness of God?Same lesson · The Basics
- What is the Bible's teaching on hermeneutics, and how does it guide us in understanding Scripture?Same lesson · The Basics · Lesson 2–1: The Manual—The Bible
- What is the role of illumination in understanding Scripture?Same lesson · The Basics
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