Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
All Commentaries on Matthew 5:3 Go To Matthew 5
Augustine of Hippo
AD 430
Moreover, the one reward, which is the kingdom of heaven, is variously named according to these stages. In the first, just as ought to be the case, is placed the kingdom of heaven, which is the perfect and highest wisdom of the rational soul. Thus, therefore, it is said, Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven: as if it were said, The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.
