Eight Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-10)

The Eight Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-10) also call by some the Eight Beautiful Attitudes. Jesus Christ gave us the eight Beatitudes in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7). These Beatitudes provide a way of life that promises salvation, they also provide peace in the midst of our trials and tribulations on this earth.

�Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Those who, however great their wealth, dignity, learning, etc., acknowledge that in God's sight they are poor, and realize that their riches come from God. Jesus said to him, �If you wish to be perfect, go, sell your possessions, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.� (Matthew 19:21)

�Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

Mourning for sin is not sadness, for it is not incompatible with spiritual joy. Woe to you who are laughing now, for you will mourn and weep. (Luke 6:25)

�Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.

The meek are those who bear patiently all the contradictions of life, looking upon them as happening through God's Will or by His permission. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (Matthew 11:29)

�Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

Becoming more humble and pure, more closely united with God and a desire to be more pleasing to God, to make daily progress in doing His will.

�Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.

The merciful are those who practice the works of mercy. Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me. (Matthew 25:34-35).

�Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

Those who are not in habitual sin are clean of heart, and possess virtue. They will be rewarded with the vision of God in heaven; and even on earth by the great light given them.

�Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

We should also try to reconcile those who are not on good terms with each other.

�Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness� sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Those are blessed who suffer for Christ, religion, or some Christian virtue. They will receive an eternal reward. Those who faithfully observe the entire law of God and defend the cause of His Church, procure His glory and save souls.