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Explanation for:
Matthew
5
:
4
Blessed are the meek: for they shall possess the land.
14
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{"arr":[{"author-name":"Jerome of Stridon","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88dcd3432c6dd41375498_Jerome%20of%20Stridon.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"This lamentation is not for individuals who have passed away due to the natural order, but rather for those who have departed in their transgressions and immoralities. For instance, Samuel grieved for Saul, as the Lord felt remorse for having anointed him as king. In a similar vein, Paul expresses his deep sorrow for those who, after engaging in adultery and impurity, have failed to seek repentance."},{"author-name":"Gregory of Nyssa","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88c197597540c9caa3754_Gregory%20of%20Nyssa.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"We have not yet reached the summit of the mountain; we remain in the foothills of understanding. Although we have traversed certain hills, the perspectives of verses 4 and 5 have been restructured in various manuscripts. Elevated by the beatitudes towards the joys of humble poverty and the virtue of meekness, we are guided to ascend further. Among these beatitudes lies the third elevation, a destination we should eagerly pursue, as the Apostle instructs us to shed all laziness and eliminate sin (Heb. 12:1). Thus, we must strive to advance towards the purest light of truth with light and agile steps.\\n\\nWhat, then, does it mean when we say, \\"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted\\"? It is clear that those focused solely on worldly matters may scoff, asserting that if those overwhelmed by troubles are deemed blessed, then those leading prosperous and trouble-free lives must be unfortunate. They would amplify their ridicule by detailing various misfortunes—loss of loved ones, widowhood, orphanhood, shipwrecks, unjust condemnation, exile, loss of possessions, ailments, and countless other afflictions. By doing so, they aim to portray what they perceive as an absurdity in the notion that weeping brings blessing. \\n\\nYet, we, in contrast to those with a limited view of divine wisdom, will endeavor to delve into the richness encapsulated in these words. We aim to reveal the stark difference between a carnal mindset and one that is lofty and heavenly. At first glance, we recognize that mourning for one’s transgressions is indeed a blessed state—in line with Paul’s teaching that there are two types of sorrow: worldly sorrow which leads to death, and godly sorrow that brings repentance and salvation for those who grieve (2 Cor. 7:10). \\n\\nA soul that recognizes its wrongs and grieves over a sinful life is worthy of admiration. In the case of bodily ailments, a part of the body may become inactive due to injury; the insensitivity of that part signifies its deadened state. However, should a healing intervention restore feeling, both the injured person and the caregiver will rejoice, embracing the pain as a sign of recovery. Similarly, those enmeshed in despair (Eph. 4:19) may find themselves spiritually dead and incapable of virtuous living, yet when confronted with a healing word, such as warnings of impending judgment, they may experience profound fear—a stirring within that leads them to recognize their need for life.\\n\\nThus, when individuals are reprimanded for their sins, they become blessed by their grief, as expressed by Paul, who reminds us that such sorrow may be redirected for comfort (2 Cor. 2:7). We can also view this teaching in light of the beatitudes as beneficial for a righteous life; as sin tends to multiply in human nature, penitential weeping serves as a remedy. However, the profound meaning of mourning points to something deeper than mere acknowledgment of sin. If it signified only repentance for transgressions, it would be better to honor those who merely weep, rather than those who continually do so.\\n\\nTo clarify, if we liken this to sickness, we honor those who are healed, not those who perpetually suffer. Continuous ailment serves as evidence of unhealed conditions. Moreover, it is unwise to limit our interpretation to mere sorrow for sin. Many throughout history have led blameless lives and are recognized for their virtuous deeds. Consider the integrity of individuals like John or Elijah—what sins do they possess within recorded history? Would the teaching imply that they stand outside the blessings of the beatitudes merely because they have not experienced the necessity of penitential weeping? Would it not be preposterous to suggest that they lack divine favor due to their sinlessness?\\n\\nSuch reflections lead us to understand that real blessing is found in genuine mourning, ultimately geared towards communion with the Good. The statement, \\"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted,\\" therefore compels us to explore more deeply who the mourners receiving the Holy Spirit's comfort may be.\\n\\nLet us first examine the nature of human weeping. Weeping typically arises from a state of emotional distress, often from the loss of something cherished. It is less common in those who find themselves in prosperity. When a person's life is flourishing—characterized by harmonious relationships and satisfaction—they naturally experience joy. However, should adversity strike, such as losing a loved one or suffering a setback, grief emerges, leading to mourning. Thus, weeping accurately reflects the sorrow of losing joy.\\n\\nTo decipher the nature of weeping that brings forth comfort, it helps to compare those who can perceive true goodness alongside those who dwell in ignorance. For instance, one born into darkness grieves the absence of light, while another, accustomed to darkness, may remain unaffected by its loss. Likewise, one who has come to recognize the goodness of God will grieve for the shortcomings of human existence. Humans who have tasted the divine good cannot help but lament the current state of their souls, desiring the restoration they once knew.\\n\\nThis yearning for divine goodness urges us to seek the reality that casts light on human darkness. What essence lies behind this seeker’s pursuit? Can our intellect grasp the very nature of holiness? How do we articulate the invisible, the immaterial, that which eludes description? The divine attributes—Deity, kingdom, power, eternal joy—elude comprehensive understanding, yet awaken a deep longing in the soul.\\n\\nEven though we cannot fully comprehend the ultimate good, this very longing brings awareness to its greatness. Humans were once partakers of this unfathomable goodness, imprinted as reflections of the divine image, thus experiencing a semblance of eternal joy and incorruption. Yet, comparing this lost glory with the burdens of our current condition, it feels natural to mourn the distance from our original state. The noble is now degraded; that which was meant for immortality is now subject to death; paradise's joy has given way to earthly struggles; once free and untroubled, we have become enslaved by myriad sorrows.\\n\\nIn our present state, each passion that seizes us becomes a tyrant; it manifests itself in anger, envy, cruelty, and various other afflictions that torment the soul. If we also consider the physical adversities we face, these would compound our reasons for weeping, highlighting the stark contrast to former benefits. The blessing of weeping then becomes a teaching of the soul to redirect its gaze towards true goodness, rather than dwelling in the fleeting pleasures of this life.\\n\\nThose absorbed in worldly affairs will inevitably find tears, while those lost in life's distractions may neglect their need for higher pursuits. Despite the pain of loss, it is a turning of the soul towards true joy that ultimately leads to blessing. The verse “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” encapsulates this idea; the later part assures us that mourning leads to eventual consolation.\\n\\nThis principle was foreshadowed in the Passover rituals, where the Jews were instructed to partake of unleavened bread and bitter herbs (Ex. 12:8). The bitter potion symbolizes the trials of our present existence, underscoring the necessity of experiencing sorrow to partake in the greater feast of life.\\n\\nEven King David, despite his earthly successes, lamented the limitations of his human condition, yearning for a higher realm and reflecting on his unfulfilled desires for divine communion (Psa. 119:5). He recognized that true fulfillment lies not in earthly comforts, but in the deeper longing for God's presence, as showcased in the parable of Lazarus and the rich man (Luke 16:25). The rich man, who enjoyed life's pleasures without regard for goodness, found himself in torment, while Lazarus, who endured hardship, was comforted.\\n\\nThis paints a picture of duality in existence; while the present life offers temporary joys, we are called to seek the lasting joy of eternal life—a joy that thrives even amid sorrow. Hence, we recognize that mourning in the present carries the promise of eternal comfort, as the mourning soul strives for unity with the Comforter.\\n\\nUltimately, those who acknowledge their need for something greater are blessed, for they shall find profound consolation in the divine. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ opens the door to this eternal blessing. To Him be glory forever. Amen."},{"author-name":"Anonymous Commentary (Opus Imperfectum)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":4,"exegesis-text":"Those who grieve for their transgressions are indeed blessed, though relatively so; for even more blessed are those who sorrow for the wrongs of others, as those who mourn for the faults of others do not bear their own burdens of sin. It is fitting for all teachers and those who dwell on the mountain to embody this understanding. If the consolation for those who grieve is liberation from the dread of punishment (for those who lament their own sins will find solace in the age of forgiveness), how will those who weep for the failings of others experience comfort in that age? Will their sorrow for sinners come to an end? Indeed. While they navigate this world, unaware of God's divine plan and not fully comprehending who has stumbled under the adversary's influence or who has chosen darkness without coercion, they mourn for each sinner, convinced that all are misled and compelled by the enemy. Yet, in the age to come, they will recognize God's Providence and will clearly discern that those who belong to God cannot be lost, while those who perish were never His, for nothing can be taken from the grasp of God. Thus, relinquishing their sorrow for others, they will find comfort and rejoice in a pure joy, free from any mingling of grief within their bliss."},{"author-name":"Ephraem the Syrian","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88b589fc3e99eb7bb1839_Ephraem%20the%20Syrian.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"\\"Blessed are those who grieve, for they will receive consolation, as it is written, 'if we suffer with Him, we shall also be glorified with Him' (cf. Rom. 8:17).\\""},{"author-name":"Chromatius of Aquileia","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88a3df6d7a747a33b4f4a_Chromatius%20of%20Aquileia.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"As He did previously with the impoverished, the Lord now addresses those who grieve, pronouncing blessing upon those who mourn deeply for a cherished partner or beloved family members. However, His blessing is intended for those who earnestly seek to atone for their transgressions through their tears, or who consistently lament in devout remembrance of divine justice in response to the wrongs of the world and the sins of humanity. It is for this reason that the Lord promises comfort in eternal joy to those who mourn righteously.\\n\\n\\"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.\\" This does not refer to grieving the loss of loved ones but rather to those who weep for their own sins, cleansing their transgressions with tears, or at least those who mourn the wickedness present in the world or the wrongs committed by others. \\n\\nWe must discern the nature of this redemptive sorrow. It is not the lament that arises from losing possessions or loved ones or from the absence of worldly status, since such concerns cannot affect one who has embraced spiritual poverty. Instead, it is the sorrow that arises from sin and the recollection of divine judgment that is truly beneficial. When a soul is overwhelmed by the countless anxieties and burdens of life, it cannot focus on itself; but once it becomes liberated from these cares and adopts humility, it begins to scrutinize itself, evaluating its own condition day and night. As a result, past wounds from offenses become evident, leading to heartfelt weeping, which is so healing that divine consolation swiftly follows. For it is true: \\"Blessed are those who weep, for they shall be comforted.\\""},{"author-name":"Euthymios Zigabenos","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":11,"exegesis-text":"Since society tends to view those who rejoice as fortunate and those who grieve as unfortunate, Christ challenges this belief and establishes a contrasting view. He does not refer to those who lament as mourners, but rather as those who lament for their transgressions. It is unworthy and inappropriate to grieve over earthly matters. The Apostle Paul states, \\"The sorrow of this world causes death, but the sorrow that is according to God produces repentance leading to salvation\\" (2 Corinthians 7:10). How can Paul also declare, \\"Rejoice in the Lord always\\" (Philippians 4:4)? Here, he addresses the joy that arises from sorrow. Sorrow naturally gives rise to joy, much like the calm that follows a heavy downpour. After we experience tears, our hearts can find peace and joy. This expression suggests that we should grieve not only for our own wrongdoings but also for the sins of others; this was the spirit of Moses, David, Paul, and others who were moved to compassion. To be consoled is to find joy. Here, it is rooted in the hope of achieving atonement through our tears; and there, it is derived not only from forgiveness but also from happiness. Those who mourn for deceased loved ones exhibit no attachment to their possessions or to their earthly lives, desire nothing else amid their sorrow, and are not hardened by offenses or consumed by passions. Much less should those who truly mourn their sins do so lightly."},{"author-name":"Theophylact of Bulgaria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8989296bafed9104677d7_Theophylact%20of%20Bulgaria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":11,"exegesis-text":"I refer to those who grieve over their transgressions, not for material concerns. When he spoke of “weeping,” it signifies a continual state, not merely a singular instance, and it encompasses lamentation for one’s own misdeeds as well as for the transgressions of others. Yet they will find solace in this life, because those who mourn for sin experience spiritual joy here, and even greater joy in the life to come."},{"author-name":"Peter of Damascus","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":12,"exegesis-text":"Blessed are those who mourn, as the Saviour proclaims, those who grieve for themselves and their neighbors out of love and compassion. This individual weeps as if lamenting the loss of a loved one, burdened by deep reflections on what transpires before and after death. Their tears flow from a heart in anguish, accompanied by profound lamentations and heartfelt sobs. They are indifferent to both honor and disgrace, holding life itself in contempt, often forgetting even to eat due to the sorrow within and their persistent weeping. Consequently, the grace of God and our common Mother instill in them a gentle spirit and the initial steps toward emulating Jesus Christ, as expressed in the third commandment; the Lord states: Blessed are the meek (Matthew 5:5)."},{"author-name":"Peter of Kiev","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c896ddde144a394c69d270_Peter%20of%20Kiev.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":17,"exegesis-text":"What is the second beatitude? ‘Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted’ (Matthew 5:4). What does this beatitude convey? This beatitude, first of all, teaches that blessed are those faithful individuals who, throughout their lives, grieve within their hearts and lament over their own sins, which have wronged both God and their neighbor. This is reflected in the words of the Prophet who states, ‘The children of Israel shall come, these and the children of Judah together walking and weeping shall go and seek the Lord their God’ (Jeremiah 50:4). Those who mourn for reasons compelled by worldly hardships do not share in this blessedness; for instance, convicted wrongdoers who weep not for their transgressions but out of fear of impending punishment, or those who lament over temporary and fleeting matters, and similar situations. \\n\\nSecondly, this beatitude instructs that blessed are those who, through their sorrow and tears shed for the sins of others, endeavor to appease and reconcile God, pleading with Him to grant repentance, which includes leading heretics back to the Church and guiding those living in sin toward a righteous path. Thirdly, it highlights that blessed are those who endure oppression from the powerful, such as individuals wrongfully deprived of their belongings. In such circumstances, they ought to refrain from thoughts of vengeance, instead lifting their hearts in sorrow and prayer, seeking God's intervention, placing all their faith and hope in His compassion. From Him, they receive solace that truly makes them faithful and participants in Divine grace. This beatitude also encompasses those who face persecution for the Orthodox Faith and the Holy Church, including all Martyrs and those like them."},{"author-name":"Ignatij (Briantchaninow)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ce37597540c9caa5df5_Ignatij%20(Briantchaninow).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"A beggar naturally laments his destitution. This spiritual poverty can lead to the profound joy that follows sorrow. Weeping represents the heartfelt grief of a devoted soul, reflecting on the Gospel and recognizing its myriad sins. Such a soul cleanses its transgressions with sacred tears, washing away the marks of sin through holy sorrow. The immense comfort and lightness that fill the heart after shedding tears of repentance for sin and downfall are a result of acknowledging one's spiritual lack. If in this earthly realm, sincere tears of grief bring such unparalleled spiritual relief, what kind of joy awaits in the age to come? Christ has declared, \\"Blessed are those who weep.\\" When you have sinned, let tears flow. One who deeply contemplates his own state, aware of the multitude of sins that tarnish him and recognizing his deserving of eternal punishment, mourns as if he has been condemned. Such a person notices few or no faults in others, readily offering forgiveness for any that he perceives and wholeheartedly letting go of all offenses and grievances.\\n\\nIf the Holy Spirit, residing within us, weeps on our behalf, how much more should we mourn for ourselves before welcoming this All-Holy Presence into our hearts? After being renewed by the Holy Spirit, if our condition is deserving of sorrow—worthy of lament as affirmed by the Spirit—then how much more must we weep over our sinful state, which is fraught with decay and left to its own devices? Mourning must be an essential part of our prayer, acting as its constant and inseparable companion, its very essence. Those who intertwine weeping with prayer align themselves with God's will, moving in the right and lawful direction. In due time, they will reap the rich harvest of true salvation’s joy. Conversely, one who omits weeping from prayer stands against the establishment of God and will find no benefit, only reaping the thorns of pride, indulgence, and destruction. The Holy Fathers teach that weeping should lead our spiritual endeavors; it must guide all our devout thoughts to their true purpose. A thought devoid of grief and not steered by it is ultimately lost."},{"author-name":"Philaret of Moscow (Drosdow)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c896ffb7a2ebaf99e46539_Philaret%20of%20Moscow%20(Drosdow).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"WHAT IS THE SECOND COMMANDMENT OF THE LORD FOR ATTAINING BLISS? Those who seek true happiness must be mourners. WHAT DOES WEEPING MEAN? Within the context of this second commandment, weeping refers to the deep sorrow and contrition of the heart, accompanied by the actual tears that flow from our recognition of having inadequately and unworthily served the Lord, thus deserving His displeasure due to our transgressions. ‘Sorrow for God's sake produces abiding repentance unto salvation; but worldly sorrow produces death’ (2 Cor. 7:10). WHAT PROMISE DOES THE LORD MAKE TO THOSE WHO MOURN? The Lord assures those who mourn that they shall receive comfort. HOW IS THIS COMFORT DEFINED? This comfort is understood as grace, encompassing the forgiveness of sins and the assurance of a peaceful conscience. WHY IS THE PROMISE OF COMFORT ASSOCIATED WITH THE COMMANDMENT TO MOURN? The sorrow for sins should never lead to despair. \\n\\n*****\\n\\nSee Luke 6:21"},{"author-name":"Michail (Lusin)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c89550c567e172d15b3055_Michail%20(Lusin).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Sorrow arises from the recognition of one's own sins and shortcomings, as well as the struggles of others, reflecting the lamentation of those burdened by life’s challenges. Such weeping, characterized by a contrite heart, is not intended to be a fleeting moment but rather a persistent, profound state of being. Those who mourn can find solace; the Gospel of the Kingdom of God is the sole source capable of providing genuine comfort to these mourners. In contrast, any consolation from other avenues falls short of alleviating the profound grief experienced by those who are spiritually mourning. Contemplating the loving presence of the one true and merciful God, who compassionately welcomes all who toil and bear heavy burdens, brings peace to the soul and a clear conscience, offering the highest form of consolation. The Comforter Spirit will instill joy in their hearts both in this life and especially in Heaven, where every tear will be dried from the eyes of the sorrowful. However, comfort is not confined to the eternal realm; those who weep for their sins find spiritual joy here, too. In this life, they cherish the hope of forgiveness, and in the next, they will experience unending joy, having attained the blessed life."},{"author-name":"Gladkow B.I.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88bf0ceef8c96e09a6521_Gladkow%20B.I..png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Through grieving for your transgressions, you begin to develop a distaste for them and pledge to renounce sin; if you keep this promise and genuinely avoid wrongdoing, you will find solace in your current struggles. Once you have turned away from sin, you will be blessed with the joy of everlasting life, regardless of your past sinful actions. You will receive comfort for your mourning over sin in this life; blessed are those who mourn now, for they shall be comforted in the life to come (Matt. 5:4). However, some misunderstand these words of the Lord. True blessedness is not found in mere tears or sorrow over sin, but in the Kingdom of Heaven. Blessed are those who humbly acknowledge their sins and grieve over them. Tears of repentance serve as a pathway towards redemption, but they are not the ultimate aim of human existence. They represent a subsequent step towards achieving wholeness, one that is often less challenging than the initial step. Blessed are those who weep, for they shall receive comfort. Yet not every expression of sorrow leads to solace. There are cries of powerless anger, humiliated pride, unfulfilled vanity, and wounded ego, and how rare are the tears of true humility! Many tears stem from unfulfilled desires, cowardice, and emptiness; these are sinful and harmful, as they lead to the death of the soul. Those who genuinely weep will find comfort, not only in the Kingdom of Heaven, as they further pursue self-improvement and gain access to this divine realm, but also here on earth. By mourning their sins and committing not to sin again, they find peace with their conscience, previously troubled by wrongdoing. They receive comfort through the understanding that they are entering the Kingdom of God, where, as faithful servants, they will aid in fostering joy on earth. Those who have the courage to humble themselves and recognize their shortcomings through good deeds that bring them closer to Christ—who mourn their sins sincerely—will reflect critically upon their foolishness and accept full responsibility for their actions. Who else can bear the blame? Blaming the devil is absurd, for he holds no dominion over us; he can tempt and suggest wicked thoughts, but cannot coerce us into actions (see pp. 146-147). God has endowed us with the will to resist temptation and with reason and conscience to discern right from wrong. Our Lord Jesus Christ has further simplified our task by showing us how to live according to His commandments and example. If we stray from this path, we must take responsibility for our choices—neither attributing blame to the devil nor to malevolent individuals. If you have sinned, accountability lies with you."},{"author-name":"Kochomski S.W.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Blessed are those who grieve for their current state, for Christ will console them with the abundance of His blessings within His church, and in the life to come, He will remove every tear from their eyes (Rev. 7:17)."}]}
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