What does Matthew 5:7 mean?

Explanation

The verse Matthew 5:7, "Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy," is one of the Beatitudes delivered by Jesus during the Sermon on the Mount.

This verse teaches the value of compassion and kindness.

In a literal sense, it promises that those who show mercy to others will, in turn, receive mercy. The deeper meaning suggests a reciprocal relationship between our actions and the treatment we receive, both from others and, according to Christian belief, from God.

Mercy here can be understood as the ability to show forgiveness and compassion to those who may not necessarily deserve it.

It implies a sense of generosity of spirit beyond just legal justice.

Being merciful includes providing help to the suffering, forgiving those who have wronged us, and exercising kindness without expecting anything in return.

The beatitude highlights the importance of cultivating an attitude of mercy in one's heart, which in the Christian teaching is regarded as being reflective of God's own nature. It also suggests that such a quality is recognized and rewarded by God.

Historical Context

The Beatitudes are found in the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 5, verses 3-12, and are part of what is commonly referred to as the Sermon on the Mount.

This sermon is considered one of the central teachings of Jesus, containing the core ethical tenets of Christian discipleship.

The Beatitudes were delivered to a Jewish audience under Roman occupation, a group familiar with the concepts of justice and mercy as outlined in the Hebrew Scriptures.

The historical context for this teaching is hence a community that experienced oppression, legalism, and perhaps a yearning for divine justice.

In addressing them, Jesus presented a kingdom that was not about earthly power or retribution but grounded in qualities of the heart, like mercy, that challenge the values of their society and the human inclination to seek vengeance.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints may emphasize various aspects of this beatitude.

From a traditional Christian perspective, mercy reflects God's character and is not merely a human action but a divine command and a fruit of spiritual growth.

Therefore, it is not enough to act mercifully; one must also cultivate a merciful nature.

Liberation theology might see this beatitude as advocating for God's preferential option for the poor and oppressed and a call to enact mercy as a form of social justice.

Reformed theology often emphasizes that humans are themselves in need of God’s mercy due to their sinful nature, interpreting that the mercy we extend is a response to the mercy we have first received from God.

Catholic social teaching might see this as an imperative that calls for systematic works of mercy alongside individual acts, including feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and visiting the sick and imprisoned.

Practical Applications

In daily life, this verse calls individuals to practice forgiveness and compassion. This could mean forgiving a friend or family member who has caused hurt, helping those in need without judgment, volunteering in community services, or even showing kindness to strangers.

Another application is in the realm of justice, where mercy can influence advocating for restorative justice rather than simply punitive measures.

Additionally, the verse can lead to self-reflection on one's attitudes and behaviors, encouraging a mindset that values empathy and understanding over harsh judgment.

Cross-References

• Luke 6:36: "Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful."
• James 2:13: "For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment."
• Proverbs 14:21: "He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he."
• Psalms 18:25: "With the merciful thou wilt shew thyself merciful; with an upright man thou wilt shew thyself upright;"

Language Study

The original Greek word for "merciful" in this verse is "ἐλεήμονες" (eleēmones), derived from "ἔλεος" (eleos), which means mercy, pity, or compassion.

"Shall obtain" comes from "ἀπολήμψονται" (apolēmpsomtai), a future tense verb, implying a certainty of receiving mercy in return. This reciprocal nature of mercy is a key focus of the verse.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the context of other religious traditions, the concept of mercy is not unique to Christianity.

For instance, in Judaism, the quality of "chesed" is a foundational characteristic of God and an important ethical value.

In Islam, Allah is often described as "Ar-Rahman" (the Most Merciful) and "Ar-Rahim" (the Most Compassionate), and mercy is considered crucial to Muslim practice.

Ancient myths, such as those in Greek and Roman traditions, often depict gods meting out harsh justice.

However, there are also stories of mercy and clemency, such as when Prometheus is freed by Heracles in Greek mythology, showcasing a human act of compassion overriding divine punishment.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, studies in psychology suggest that showing mercy and practicing forgiveness can have positive effects on mental and physical health.

For example, letting go of grudges has been associated with lower levels of stress and better heart health.

The practice of mercy as taught in Matthew 5:7 could also have societal benefits, promoting social cohesion and reducing conflict.

Commentaries

Various experts and Bible commentators have interpreted Matthew 5:7 in diverse ways.

According to William Barclay, this Beatitude does not just mean showing sympathy to those who are ill or in trouble, but being ready to forgive those who sin against us.

John Stott calls the mercy in this Beatitude a forgiving and compassionate spirit and suggests that a call for mercy is a call for Godlikeness.

Other scholars, such as D.A.

Carson, emphasize that this Beatitude, like the others, is not simply a promise but an ethical guideline – a call to follow Jesus’ example.

He states that those who are merciful reflect the transformative grace that they have already received and are assured of finding God's mercy at the judgement.