Assessment of Religious Knowledge (ARK) Practice Exam

The Beatitudes, found in the Sermon on the Mount, highlight the spiritual blessings associated with specific attitudes and behaviors that are often contrary to worldly values. The focus on meekness and humility reflects the core teachings of Jesus, which emphasize compassion, gentleness, and a deep reliance on God rather than pride or self-sufficiency.

Meekness, for instance, embodies a humble spirit, recognizing one's own limitations and the need for divine grace. In the Beatitudes, those who exhibit such qualities are promised blessings, such as inheriting the earth or being comforted. This contrasts sharply with societal norms that often prioritize wealth, power, and judgment over inner peace and selflessness. The inclusion of humility emphasizes that the Kingdom of Heaven favors those who are poor in spirit and who seek righteousness over personal gain.

In this context, the emphasis on meekness and humility serves as a radical reorientation of values, encouraging believers to cultivate a disposition that aligns with the teachings of Jesus and promotes a compassionate community.