New Testament
Matthew 5:6
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Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
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Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.
What Matthew 5:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus teaches that those who deeply desire righteousness—meaning a right relationship with God and moral integrity—are truly blessed. The imagery of hunger and thirst illustrates a strong, urgent longing for spiritual fulfillment. Just as physical hunger and thirst drive us to seek food and water, our spiritual hunger should lead us to seek righteousness. Jesus promises that those who earnestly seek this righteousness will be satisfied or 'filled.' This fulfillment comes from a relationship with God and living according to His will. It emphasizes that true happiness and contentment come from pursuing what is right and just, rather than worldly pleasures. This beatitude encourages believers to prioritize their spiritual needs and to actively seek a life that reflects God's values, assuring them that their efforts will not go unrewarded.
How to apply Matthew 5:6 to your life
To apply this verse, cultivate a deep desire for righteousness in your life. Engage in prayer, study scripture, and seek to align your actions with God's will. Recognize that true satisfaction comes from living a life that reflects His values and principles.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1–7:29)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Plain Meaning
Jesus says people who deeply want righteousness are blessed. The picture is physical: a starving, thirsty person has one desperate need. Jesus uses that picture for people who want righteousness just as badly. Righteousness means living rightly before God. The promise is simple — that longing will be satisfied. They will be filled.
Read It in Context
This is one of a series of statements Jesus makes to His disciples on a mountain. Each one names a group and calls them blessed, then gives a reason. Verse 20 later shows that righteousness in this chapter means something deeper than outward rule-keeping.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 5:6 mean?
Matthew 5:6 means that those who earnestly seek righteousness and a right relationship with God are blessed. It emphasizes the importance of spiritual longing and assures that those who pursue righteousness will find fulfillment.
What is the meaning of 'hunger and thirst' in Matthew 5:6?
In Matthew 5:6, 'hunger and thirst' symbolize a deep, urgent desire for righteousness. Just as physical hunger drives us to seek food, this phrase illustrates the intensity of our spiritual longing for a moral and just life.
How can I apply Matthew 5:6 in my life?
To apply Matthew 5:6, focus on developing a strong desire for righteousness through prayer, scripture study, and aligning your actions with God's will. This pursuit will lead to true satisfaction and fulfillment.
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