“Blessed are the meek.” This is a direct quotation of Psalm 37:11. Meekness is the quality of character that may be defined as poise under pressure and patience in the face of provocation. President Harold B. Lee taught: “A meek man is defined as one who is not easily provoked or irritated and forbearing under injury or annoyance. Meekness is not synonymous with weakness.”26 President Gordon B. Hinckley observed: “The meek and the humble are those who are teachable. They are willing to learn. They are willing to listen to the whisperings of the still, small voice for guidance in their lives. They place the wisdom of the Lord above their own wisdom.”27 The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that “we should cultivate a meek, quiet and peaceable spirit.”28 Mildness, humbleness, and gentleness are meekness, and meekness is power under control.
An excellent example of meekness in the New Testament is John the Baptist. He was bold and rigorous in denouncing evil and hypocrisy, but at the same time he was humble and meek. Speaking of the Savior, the great prophet said, “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30).
As this verse from the Beatitudes indicates, the meek will inherit this celestialized earth (D&C 130:9).