The second Beatitude saying "Blessed are those who mourn" finds its antecedent in Isaiah 61:1-3 which declares that God "provides for those who mourn... and gives the oil of gladness instead of mourning." Through this affirmation Jesus announces that individuals characterized by a 'poverty of spirit' and willingness to confront and grieve over their shortcomings (instead of indifference) will know the blessing of our Creator/Redeemer God.