Day 296

  • Principle: Want happiness, follow the beatitudes.  

  • Book of Mormon Reading: 3 Nephi 12:1 - 12:20

    • According to the footnote to Matthew 5:3a describes beatitudes as the following:

      • “The Latin beatus is the basis of the English “beatitude,” meaning “to be fortunate,” “to be happy,” or “to be blessed.”"

    • Webster’s dictionary defines beatitudes as “a state of utmost bliss (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 11th ed. [2004], 107). 

    • The Bible Dictionary adds:

      • Name given to certain declarations of blessedness in the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5:3–11; Luke 6:20–22). They describe certain elements that go to form the refined and spiritual character, all of which will be present whenever that character exists in its perfection. Rather than being isolated statements, the Beatitudes are interrelated and progressive in their arrangement. A more comprehensive and accurate listing is found in 3 Ne. 12:1–12, where a greater spiritual emphasis is given. (The JST wording is similar to 3 Ne.)

    • The Guide to the Scriptures states:

      • “The Beatitudes are arranged in such a way that each statement builds upon the one that precedes it” (“Beatitudes”).

    • In Decisions for Successful Living Harold B. Lee taught that the Beatitudes teach the “constitution for a perfect life”: “Four of them have to do with our individual selves,” and four “have to do with man’s social relations with others” (Decisions for Successful Living [1973], 57, 60)

      • With self

        • Blessed are the poor in spirit.

        • Blessed are all they that morn.

        • Blessed are all they who do hunger and thrust after righteousness.

        • Blessed are all the pure in heart.

      • With Others

        • Blessed are the meek.

        • Blessed are the merciful.

        • Blessed are all the peacemakers.

        • Blessed are all they who are persecuted for my name’s sake. 

    • As you read these verses look for how the teachings can improve your relationship with yourself and others.  

  • Additional Study: