Jesus and the Sermon
on the Mount of Olives
One of the
synoptic gospels accepted by Chrisitanity, written by Matthew ca. 55-70
CE, presents his god's teachings to the masses of followers outside of Jerusalem.
In what ways did the Medieval European Knights, such as Roland,
follow the word of their god? Can you think of any reasons for the neglect
of these teachings?
And seeing the mulititudes, he [Jesus] went up into a
mountain and when he was set, his disciples came unto hom: [2] and he opened
his mouth, and taught them saying, [3] Blessed are the poor in spirit;:for
thiers is the kingdom of heaven. [4] Blessed are they that mourn: for they
shall be comforted. [5] Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the
earth. [6] Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness:
for they shall be filled. [7] Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain
mercy. [8] Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. [9] Blessed
are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. [21]
You have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou
shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be indanger of judgment:
[22] but I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without
cause shall be in danger of judgment. [38] You have heard that it has been
said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: [39] but I say unto you,
That you resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite
thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. [43] You have heard
that it hath been said, Thou shalt love your neighbor, and hate your enemy.
[44] But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do
good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you,
and persecute you: [45] that you may be the children of your Father which
is in heaven: for he maks his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and
sends rain on the just and on the unjust. [46] For if you love them which
love you, what reward have you? do not even the publicans the same?
Source: Text -- from New Revised Standard Version Bible (New York;
Collins Publishers, 1989).