As meek as a lamb
Meaning
Extremely gentle, submissive, or timid in nature.
Origin
From the earliest pastoral societies, the lamb stood as a living emblem of innocence and vulnerability. Its gentle bleating, soft wool, and unresisting nature in the face of danger made it a universal symbol of meekness. This perception was profoundly cemented in ancient religious texts, particularly the Bible, where lambs were central to sacrificial rites, embodying purity and passive obedience. The ultimate metaphor arrived with the depiction of Jesus as the “Lamb of God,” a figure of ultimate sacrifice and profound gentleness. This deep cultural and religious resonance, combined with everyday observation of these mild creatures, ensured the phrase "as meek as a lamb" would forever signify the epitome of submissive gentleness.
Examples
- Despite his intimidating appearance, the new boss turned out to be as meek as a lamb, always willing to listen to feedback.
- She seemed as meek as a lamb during the interview, but her colleagues soon discovered her fierce determination.