King James Version

What Does Matthew 5:7 Mean?

Matthew 5:7 in the King James Version says “Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 5 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.”

Matthew 5:7 · KJV

Context

5

Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

6

Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.

7

Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.

8

Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.

9

Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This beatitude declares 'Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy' (Greek: μακάριοι οἱ ἐλεήμονες, 'blessed the merciful ones'). The blessing operates on the principle of divine reciprocity: those who show mercy (ἐλεέω, compassionate action toward the needy) will themselves receive mercy. This is not salvation by works but a demonstration that genuine faith produces merciful character. The future tense 'shall obtain mercy' (ἐλεηθήσονται, divine passive) indicates God as the source of mercy. Kingdom citizens embody God's mercy because they have experienced it.

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Historical & Cultural Context

In first-century Judaism, mercy (hesed in Hebrew tradition) was a core covenant virtue. Jesus' sermon on a Galilean mountainside to Jewish audiences would evoke Sinai's law-giving. However, Jesus radically redefines blessing beyond mere covenant-keeping to internal character transformation. The merciful acts Jesus envisions extend beyond Jewish community boundaries to enemies (5:44) and the undeserving, reflecting God's character revealed in Exodus 34:6-7.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does showing mercy demonstrate that we have truly experienced God's mercy?
  2. What is the relationship between receiving mercy and extending mercy to others?
  3. In what practical ways can we cultivate merciful hearts in daily interactions?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 6 words
Μακάριοι1 of 6

“Blessed”

G3107

supremely blest; by extension, fortunate, well off

οἱ2 of 6
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἐλεήμονες3 of 6

“are the merciful”

G1655

compassionate (actively)

ὅτι4 of 6

“for”

G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

αὐτοὶ5 of 6

“they”

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

ἐλεηθήσονται6 of 6

“shall obtain mercy”

G1653

to compassionate (by word or deed, specially, by divine grace)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 5:7 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 5:7 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Ephesians 4:32-5:1Matthew 6:14-152 Samuel 22:26Matthew 18:33-35Psalms 18:25James 2:13

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