The fifth chapter of the Gospel of Matthew is one of the most renowned and influential passages in the New Testament, known for the Sermon on the Mount. This sermon is a collection of teachings by Jesus Christ that outline the principles of the Kingdom of God and how His followers are to live. To understand the depth and nuance of Matthew 5, delving into the Greek translation can provide valuable insights.
Introduction to the Sermon on the Mount
The Sermon on the Mount begins with the Beatitudes, a series of blessings that describe the character and fortunes of those who follow Jesus. The Greek text offers a rich understanding of these blessings, using the word “μακαριοι” (makarioi), which means “blessed” or “happy,” but in a deeper sense, it signifies a state of being uniquely favored by God.
The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12)
- Blessed are the poor in spirit - The Greek phrase “πτωχοι τω πνευματι” (ptōchoi tō pneumati) emphasizes spiritual humility, a recognition of one’s spiritual poverty before God.
- Blessed are those who mourn - “οι πενθουντες” (hoi penthountes) refers to those who mourn over their sins and the sins of the world, demonstrating a deep sense of repentance and sorrow.
- Blessed are the meek - “οι πραεις” (hoi praēis) describes individuals who are gentle and humble, not asserting their own way but trusting in God’s sovereignty.
- Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness - “οι πεινωντες και διαψωντες δικαιοσυνην” (hoi peinōntes kai diapsōntes dikaiosynēn) highlights the deep longing for God’s righteousness, both personally and in the world.
- Blessed are the merciful - “οι ελεημωνες” (hoi eleēmones) emphasizes the importance of showing mercy and compassion to others, reflecting God’s merciful character.
- Blessed are the pure in heart - “οι καθαροι τη καρδια” (hoi katharoi tē kardia) refers to those whose hearts are clean and pure, free from the corruption of sin and filled with a desire to please God.
- Blessed are the peacemakers - “οι ειρηνοποιοι” (hoi eirēnopoi) describes those who actively seek peace and reconciliation, reflecting the peacemaking nature of God.
- Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake - “οι δεδιωγμενοι χαριν δικαιοσυνης” (hoi dediógmenoi charin dikaiosynēs) stands as a promise to those who suffer because of their commitment to following Jesus and His teachings.
Salt and Light (Matthew 5:13-16)
Jesus teaches that His followers are to be the “salt” and “light” of the world. The Greek word for salt, “αλας” (halas), and for light, “φως” (phos), signify the preserving and illuminating influence believers are to have on their surroundings. The instruction to let their light shine before others, “ωστε ιδειν υμιν το φως” (hōste idein hymin to phos), emphasizes the importance of living in such a way that others see their good works and glorify God.
Fulfillment of the Law (Matthew 5:17-20)
Jesus states that He has come to fulfill the law, “ηξω να πληρωσω” (ēxō na plērōsō), indicating that His teachings are not a negation of the Old Testament laws but a fulfillment and deeper interpretation of them. The phrase “until heaven and earth pass away” (“εως αν παρ للدformedURLException ουρανος και η γη” - heōs an parelthē ouranos kai hē gē) underscores the enduring nature of God’s word.
Anger and Reconciliation (Matthew 5:21-26)
Jesus elevates the standard for murder to include anger towards a brother, “ο Ave ργ 大阪 se orgizesthe” (ho orgizesthe), teaching that hate and anger are as significant as the act of murder itself in God’s eyes. The command to be reconciled with a brother before offering a gift at the altar, “αλλα αποκαταλλαγηθι πρωτον τω αδελφω σου” (all’ apokatalagēthi prōton tō adelphō sou), highlights the importance of resolving conflicts and maintaining peace with others.
Lust and Purity (Matthew 5:27-30)
The Greek text speaks strongly against lust, using the word “μοιχευω” (moicheuō) to describe the act of committing adultery, even in one’s heart. Jesus teaches that if one’s right eye causes them to stumble, it is better to pluck it out, “εαν ο οφθαλμος σου ο δεξιος σκαν달ιζει σε” (ean ho ophthalmos sou ho dexios skandalizei se), illustrating the radical commitment required to follow Him and avoid sin.
Divorce and Remarriage (Matthew 5:31-32)
Jesus’ teaching on divorce utilizes the Greek word “απολυω” (apoluō) for divorce, emphasizing that the only grounds for divorce recognized by God is marital unfaithfulness, “πορνεια” (porneia). The command against remarrying after a divorce, except in cases of adultery, underscores the sacred nature of marriage in God’s eyes.
Oaths and Vows (Matthew 5:33-37)
The instruction to not swear oaths but let your “yes” be “yes” and your “no” be “no” reflects the importance of integrity and honesty. The Greek phrase “ινα μη υποκριθητε” (hina mē hypokritēte) warns against hypocrisy in speech and action.
Retaliation and Love for Enemies (Matthew 5:38-48)
Jesus teaches against retaliation, using the phrase “οτι ηκούσατε” (hoti ēkousate) to refer to the traditional teaching of “an eye for an eye.” Instead, He commands love for enemies, “αγαπατε τους εχθρους υμων” (agapate tous echthrous hymon), and to pray for those who persecute them, demonstrating a radical commitment to love and forgiveness.
Conclusion
Matthew 5 presents a profound and challenging set of teachings that call believers to a higher standard of living, one that is characterized by love, mercy, and a deep commitment to following Jesus Christ. Through the Greek translation, we gain a deeper understanding of these teachings and the expected character of Christ’s followers. As we reflect on these verses, we are reminded of the enduring relevance of Jesus’ words and the transformative power they hold for those who seek to live according to His teachings.
