„Błogosławieni...” – etyczne wymogi ośmiu błogosławieństw (Mt 5, 3-12)

Abstract

First the author discusses the problems connected with the literary layer of the blessings (I), then the meaning of particular verses (II), and finally some theological ideas of the pericope, as well as concluding remarks (III). Explaining the first blessing the author thinks that xw nvcOpaxt should be understood as dat. Instrumentalis (“with spirit”) and at the same time relationis (“in spirit”). The second blessing refers to those who are sad because Christ and God seem to be “the great absentees” from the modem world. Gentle ones are those who are not indignant about adversities that life brings and can keep patient. To hunger and thirst for righteousness means to desire a life that is accordant with the Father’s will. Coming to somebody’s aid and forgiving is a characteristic of merciful people; and showing mercy to other people is a manifestation of mercy actually received from God. Blessing people who are pure in heart concerns people in whom there is no falsehood or spite, people who look for the good and try to be honest towards God and their neighbors. “Peacemakers” are those who act for establishing conditions in which everybody may develop according to G od’s plan. People who suffer for the sake of righteousness are the ones who are persecuted because of their desire to lead their lives according to God’s will.