Blessed

What Does Jesus Mean by “Blessed”

 in the Sermon on the Mount?

Matthew 5:3-12 – “Blessed (μακάριοι, makarioi) are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven…”

When Jesus calls people “blessed” in the Beatitudes, He is not referring to material wealth or worldly success. Instead, He is redefining what it means to experience the good life in God’s kingdom. Understanding the original Greek and Hebrew words for “blessed” helps us grasp the depth of His message.

The Meaning of “Blessed” in Greek and Hebrew

1. Greek: Makarios (μακάριος)

• This word means fortunate, happy, or deeply satisfied. It refers to a state of well-being that is independent of external circumstances. In ancient Greek culture, makarios was often used to describe the gods, who were believed to be above human suffering. Jesus, however, applies it to the poor, the mourning, and the persecuted—completely flipping the cultural understanding of blessing.

2. Hebrew: Ashrey (אשרי)

• The Hebrew equivalent ashrey conveys the idea of happiness, fulfillment, and human flourishing—what we might call “the good life.” This word appears in Psalm 1:1 – “Blessed (ashrey) is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked.” It points to a life lived in alignment with God’s wisdom and ways.

3. Hebrew: Barukh (ברוך)

• The more common Hebrew word for “blessing,” barukh, refers to divine favor—when God actively bestows gifts and goodness upon a person. This is the word used in Genesis 12:2, when God tells Abraham, “I will bless (barukh) you and make your name great.”

Jesus’ use of “blessed” (makarios) in the Beatitudes leans toward ashrey rather than barukh. He is describing an inner state of joy, peace, and wholeness—a life deeply rooted in God’s kingdom, rather than an external blessing of wealth or comfort.

Jesus’ Counterintuitive Blessing

Jesus’ blessings in Matthew 5:3-12 turn the world’s values upside down. The Beatitudes challenge us to rethink what it means to be truly “well-off” in the kingdom of God.

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

• The world exalts self-sufficiency, but Jesus calls the spiritually bankrupt blessed because they recognize their need for God.

• Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

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

• Sorrow is not the end—it is the beginning of experiencing God’s comfort and presence.

• Isaiah 61:2-3 – “To comfort all who mourn… to give them a crown of beauty instead of ashes.”

3. “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.”

• True strength is found in humility and gentleness, not in power and control.

• Psalm 37:11 – “But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy peace and prosperity.”

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

• The world seeks satisfaction in pleasure, but Jesus says true fulfillment comes from longing for God’s justice and holiness.

• Isaiah 55:1-2 – “Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters.”

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

• Mercy triumphs over judgment. Those who extend compassion receive it in return.

• James 2:13 – “Mercy triumphs over judgment.”

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

• The world focuses on outward appearance, but Jesus calls us to inner purity and undivided devotion to God.

• Psalm 24:3-4 – “Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord? … The one who has clean hands and a pure heart.”

7. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”

• Instead of seeking power or revenge, God’s people bring reconciliation.

• Romans 12:18 – “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”

8. “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

• Suffering for Christ is not a curse but a sign of true discipleship.

• 2 Timothy 3:12 – “Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”

Living in the Reality of Jesus’ Blessing

The Beatitudes paint a picture of life under God’s rule—a kingdom reality that stands in stark contrast to worldly success.

As Eugene Peterson paraphrases in The Message:

“You’re blessed when you’re at the end of your rope. With less of you, there is more of God and his rule.”

As Dallas Willard wrote in The Divine Conspiracy:

“The Beatitudes are not teaching how to be blessed. They are illustrations of the present availability of the kingdom through personal relationship with Jesus.”

Jesus’ blessing is not about comfort, success, or wealth—it is about living in the joy and security of God’s presence. It is a deep, unshakable reality that cannot be taken away by circumstances.

Reflection and Prayer:

• Do I measure blessing by material success, or by my relationship with God?

• Which of the Beatitudes challenges me the most?

• How can I embody the kingdom values Jesus describes?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank You for redefining what it means to be truly blessed. Help me to embrace Your kingdom values, to find joy in humility, and to seek righteousness over success. May my life reflect the beauty of Your Beatitudes. Amen.