Here's why it's hard to pin down a single origin:
* Biblical Inspiration: The phrase echoes the message of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:5) where he says, "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth." This verse suggests that those who are humble and patient will ultimately triumph. However, this doesn't explicitly mention "wrath."
* Interpretations and Adaptations: "The Wrath of the Meek" is likely a phrase that emerged from interpreting this biblical idea through a lens of social justice, revolution, or power dynamics.
* Literary and Cultural Influence: The phrase itself may be inspired by various literary works, social movements, or even individual interpretations that have developed over time.
Possible Influences:
* Leo Tolstoy's "The Kingdom of God is Within You" (1893): This book explores the concept of passive resistance and the power of non-violent action, which could be interpreted as a form of "wrath of the meek."
* Martin Luther King Jr.'s "Letter from Birmingham Jail" (1963): This powerful letter argues for peaceful resistance against injustice, which can be seen as a manifestation of "the wrath of the meek."
* Modern Social Justice Movements: Contemporary movements advocating for equality and justice, often employing non-violent methods, have popularized the notion of the meek rising up to challenge the powerful.
In conclusion, "The Wrath of the Meek" isn't a phrase with a single, definitive origin. It's a modern concept that likely draws from various religious, philosophical, and historical sources to describe the powerful potential of the oppressed when they stand up for their rights.