Purity of Heart in Biblical Teachings: Traits of the Pure and Their Reward

The concept of being pure in heart is a significant notion in the Bible, emphasizing individuals who strive to maintain divine commandments. According to Biblical teachings, such individuals are blessed and receive the Holy Spirit. Here, we explore the traits of the pure in heart as highlighted in various passages and the rewards they receive.

Defining 'Pure in Heart'

The pure in heart are those who actively seek to adhere to God's commandments. According to Galatians 5:22-23, they possess the fruits of the Spirit, such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These individuals are also described as having no guile or deceit, walking uprightly, and speaking truthfully.

Attributes of the Pure in Heart

In Isaiah 33:15, it is stated that the pure in heart are those who:

Walk righteously and speak uprightly. Despise the gain from oppressive behavior. Avoid taking bribes, bloodshed, and evil. Honour those who fear God. Swear to their own harm and do not change their words. Avoid lending money at usury and do not accept rewards for punishing the innocent.

These attributes can be seen in Psalm 15:1-5, where God instructs who shall abide in His tabernacle and dwell in His holy mountain:

Walk uprightly and work righteousness. Speak the truth in one's heart. Backbite not, do no evil, nor accept reproaches. Contemn a vile person and honour those who fear God. Swear to one's own hurt and do not change. Avoid usury and do not take unjust rewards.

The Shema Prayer and Purity of Heart

The Shema prayer (Deuteronomy 6) teaches the mandate of loving God with all one's heart. True adherence to this commandment reflects an awareness of spiritual need and a commitment to love God and others, including one's human brothers and sisters. Even Leviticus 25:44-46 and the stoning of disobedient children in Deuteronomy 21:18-21 suggest that moral perfection is not the sole criterion for being pure in heart. Instead, the emphasis is on faith and adherence to the teachings of Jesus and the observance of the Sabbath.

Blessings of the Pure in Heart

According to Matthew 5:3-12, the following traits are associated with those who will receive great rewards:

Those who are conscious of their spiritual need will inherit the kingdom of the heavens. Happy are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Those who are gentle will inherit the earth. Hungry and thirsty for righteousness will be fully satisfied. The merciful will be shown mercy. Holy and pure in heart will see God. Peacemakers will be called sons of God. Those persecuted for righteousness' sake will inherit the kingdom of the heavens.

Conclusion

In summary, the pure in heart are characterized by their righteousness, integrity, and devotion to God's commandments. They walk uprightly, speak truth, and seek to honour God and others. The rewards of such a life, as espoused in the Bible, include blessings and the ultimate reward of seeing God. This makes the concept of purity in heart a timeless and significant teaching in Christian theology.