Bible glossary

What Does ‘Blessing’ Mean in the Bible?

A blessing is God's favor and life-giving goodness spoken and given to His people, and the good we in turn speak over others.

To bless is to speak good and to bestow favor. When God blesses, His words carry power; they impart life, protection, and flourishing. The famous priestly blessing asks God to keep His people, shine His face on them, and give them peace.

Blessing flows in more than one direction. God blesses His people, His people bless Him with praise, and they are called to be a blessing to the world. The deepest blessings are not always material; they are the spiritual riches we have in God Himself.

Key verses

“The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.”
Numbers 6:24-26

“And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing.”
Genesis 12:2

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ.”
Ephesians 1:3