Monday 01 November 2021

Psalm 34:1-10, 22

Background

This passage is one of the best-known and most-loved passages in all scripture. It is usually known as the Beatitudes, from the Latin word beati meaning ‘blessed’. The text is particularly relevant for today, which is All Saints’ Day, when the Church traditionally recalls those who have died, especially those who have been killed for their faith. 

The Beatitudes mark the beginning of the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew's Gospel (Matthew 5:1-7:29). This is the first of five large blocks of teaching we find in the Gospel, which includes some of Jesus’ most famous sayings and instructions. It seems to take place near Capernaum by Lake Galilee, but it is very likely that Matthew gathered together teaching that took place on several occasions.

In some senses, the Beatitudes look back to the world of the Old Testament, and especially teachings about what true wisdom meant. For example, the book of Psalms begins with a form of beatitude: “Happy are those who do not follow the advice of the wicked” (Psalm 1:1). Many commentators also make parallels between Jesus and Moses. Both teach God’s people, both produce five great blocks of teaching (the Torah), and both go “up the mountain” (Exodus 19).

The Beatitudes also look forward, though, introducing many of the key themes we will find in Jesus’ teaching, especially the mysterious concept of the ‘Kingdom of Heaven’ (vs 3, 10). (The other gospel writers use the term ‘Kingdom of God’ but Matthew seemingly chooses to avoid using the divine name.) In this topsy-turvy world, which is both present and yet to come, the values of the world are reversed: the rich are poor, the weak are powerful, and even death is not the end.

 A key challenge for all readers is how to understand the word ‘blessed’ in this context. We could translate the original Greek as ‘happy’ or ‘fortunate’ but the meaning goes deeper than that. It also challenges both ancient and modern concepts of what true happiness – or blessedness – looks like, in terms of material wealth and personal contentment. It seems to speak of a much deeper, revolutionary truth.

To Ponder:

•  How would you understand the word ‘blessed’ here? Can you think of a better translation?
• Can those who mourn really be comforted by Jesus’ teachings? How?
• In what ways do the Beatitudes challenge your way of thinking about your life and the world?

 Prayer

Faithful God, help us to hear your words anew this day and to be a source of blessing for all people. Amen.