One of the most commonly misunderstood words is meekness. It’s one of the fruits of the Spirit, yet many people are lacking information on this godly trait. Therefore, I thought it’d be a great idea to share what the word meekness means in Hebrew and Greek.
All scriptures are taken from NKJV unless otherwise marked.
“What do you want? Shall I come to you with a rod, or in love and a spirit of gentleness?”
– 1 Corinthians 4:21
What Does The Word ‘Meekness’ Mean In Hebrew?
anvah- mildness, oppressed.
This term only occurs five times. It describes the two characteristics gained from affliction: humility and gentleness. When it’s applied to God, it represents His submission to His own nature.
“And in Your majesty ride prosperously because of truth, humility, and righteousness;
And Your right hand shall teach You awesome things.“
– Psalms 45:4
anavah- modesty, clemency.
Related: What Does The Word ‘Gentleness’ Mean In Hebrew and Greek?
What Does The Word ‘Meekness’ Mean In Greek?
praiotes- gentleness, humility.
This term has a deeper meaning than what we may realize. It doesn’t just describe someone’s outward behavior or their relationship with their fellow men. Instead, it’s a grace that starts way deep inside and is directed first and mainly at God. It’s a spirit in which one accepts God’s dealings with us as good and does not dispute or resist them.
This word is closely related to humility. The humble heart is meek and does not fight against God or contend with Him.
The meaning of praiotes is not accurately expressed in English. For example, the term meekness is commonly used to suggest weakness. However, that couldn’t be further from the true meaning. People assume that a man is meek when he cannot help himself. Yet, the Lord was meek because He had the infinite resources of God at His command.
Christians are commanded to show all meekness toward all men.
“Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.”
– James 1:21
praetes- humility, meekness.
Conclusion
The English language will never truly grasp the full meaning of the word meekness. However, I heard someone say a great definition of this word. It was “strength under control.” This sounds accurate because we know that Jesus said He could’ve called on legions of angels to rescue Him, but He didn’t. Not only that, but those who crucified Him mocked Him, telling Him to save Himself if He was the Son of God.
Although He has all power in His hands, He took the penalty of our sins and prayed for those who were afflicting so much pain onto Him. The Lord is not weak. He is humble and obedient to God and we ought to model Him in this behavior.
That’s what the word meekness means in Hebrew and Greek. I pray you found this article helpful. If so, please share this content. Also, feel free to share any thoughts in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
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Very helfull! Thank you for taking the time to explain
Very very helpful and insightful. Meekness means having the power to alter a situation but not making that choice. Instead it means relying on God to rectify the situation as He sees fit. Thank you!!
Thank you so much for thinking of others and wanting to help others understand God’s Word in greater clarity. Keep up your good work. The Lord bless your ministry.
Bless the Lord. You have explained meekness so beautifully. I am grateful for this as I always seek understanding of God’s word. I want to be like Jesus.
This was absolutely amazing. The Almighty lead me to this page and I shall be conducting the bible study utilizing this content. I thank you Almighty for using you. JAH bless.
This wrecked me!! (in a good way!) Thank you so much for posting this!
I knew meek didn’t mean weak, cause I know for sure Jesus ain’t weak. Thank you very much!
I’m answered, thank you sir/ma’am. God bless you, this best describes also the late Snr prophet TB Joshua ministry whilst on the earth.
Shalom!
it was very helpful to me, I
had a problem fighting with Pride, but his Article has help me . God bless you!
Thanks i definitely knew it was much deeper than it sounded and this article opened it to me thank you