When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on the hill. After taking his seat, his disciples came to him, and he began to teach them:
“How blessed are those who are destitute in spirit,
because the kingdom from heaven belongs to them!
“How blessed are those who mourn,
because it is they who will be comforted!
“How blessed are those who are humble,
because it is they who will inherit the earth!
“How blessed are those who are hungry and thirsty for righteousness,
because it is they who will be satisfied!
“How blessed are those who are merciful,
because it is they who will receive mercy!
“How blessed are those who are pure in heart,
because it is they who will see God!
“How blessed are those who make peace,
because it is they who will be called God’s children!
“How blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake,
because the kingdom from heaven belongs to them!
“How blessed are you whenever people insult you, persecute you, and say all sorts of evil things against you falsely because of me! Rejoice and be extremely glad, because your reward in heaven is great! That’s how they persecuted the prophets who came before you.”