Gentleness
πραΰτης (prautēs)
Meekness and controlled strength — power under the guidance of wisdom and love.
Prautēs is the Greek word for gentleness or meekness, describing strength under control. It is not weakness but disciplined power — the quality Jesus displayed and calls His followers to embody.
"Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth." — Matthew 5:5 (KJV)
Key Verses
Matthew 11:29
“Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”Read in context
Etymology and Original Meaning
Prautēs was used in classical Greek to describe a wild horse that had been tamed — its strength remained, but it was now under control. This is the perfect image for biblical gentleness: it is not the absence of power but power submitted to a higher purpose. A gentle person can be strong and assertive but chooses restraint, wisdom, and grace.
The Meekness of Moses and Christ
Moses was called the meekest man on earth (Numbers 12:3), yet he confronted Pharaoh, led a nation, and broke the tablets of the law in righteous anger. Jesus described Himself as 'meek and lowly in heart' (Matthew 11:29), yet He cleansed the temple and rebuked hypocrisy with blazing intensity. Meekness and courage are not opposites — they are partners.
Gentleness as a Fruit of the Spirit
Paul lists gentleness among the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23). It characterizes how believers should handle conflict (2 Timothy 2:25), correct error (Galatians 6:1), and defend their faith (1 Peter 3:15). Gentleness creates space for truth to be received rather than rejected — it is the tone that makes the message hearable.
Inheriting the Earth
Jesus' promise that the meek shall inherit the earth (Matthew 5:5) overturns worldly expectations. The aggressive, the powerful, and the ruthless seem to inherit the earth — but Jesus promises that those who trust God enough to be gentle will ultimately receive everything. Meekness is the long-term strategy of the kingdom.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does gentleness mean in the Bible?
Gentleness (prautēs) means meekness or strength under control — like a tamed horse. It is not weakness but power guided by wisdom, love, and submission to God.
Why are the meek blessed?
Jesus promised that the meek shall inherit the earth (Matthew 5:5) because meekness reflects trust in God rather than self-assertion. Those who surrender control to God ultimately receive His kingdom.
Which Bible verse uses the word "Gentleness"?
Matthew 5:5 — "Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth" (KJV). It also appears in Matthew 11:29, Galatians 5:23.
Why does the Greek word behind "Gentleness" matter?
Prautēs was used in classical Greek to describe a wild horse that had been tamed — its strength remained, but it was now under control. English uses one word, "Gentleness", where the Greek πραΰτης (prautēs) carries the fuller sense: meekness and controlled strength — power under the guidance of wisdom and love.
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