My Yoke Is Easy And My Burden Is Light

My yoke is easy and my burden is light is a phrase from the New Testament of the Bible, specifically found in Matthew 11:30, where Jesus Christ speaks about the nature of his teachings and the spiritual life he offers. The phrase is part of a larger passage where Jesus invites those who are weary and burdened to come to him for rest, suggesting that his teachings and the path he offers are not oppressive but liberating. The phrase "yoke" metaphorically refers to the teachings or the way of life that one follows, and "burden" refers to the responsibilities or challenges associated with that way of life. In this context, Jesus is asserting that following him and embracing his teachings will bring spiritual ease and lightness, as opposed to the heavy and burdensome laws and traditions of the religious leaders of his time.

The phrase in Hebrew can be translated as עולי קלה ונטלי קל (Oli kala v'Nitli kal). In other relevant languages, it is translated as Mi yugo es fácil y mi carga ligera in Spanish, Mon joug est facile et mon fardeau léger in French, Mein Joch ist sanft und meine Last ist leicht in German, and Il mio giogo è dolce e il mio carico è leggero in Italian.

The phrase is often interpreted as a promise of spiritual comfort and relief from the burdens of sin and guilt. It emphasizes the grace and mercy of Jesus' teachings, which are seen as a contrast to the legalistic and often burdensome interpretations of religious law prevalent in Jewish tradition at the time. This passage is significant in Christian theology as it underscores the idea that faith in Jesus brings freedom and peace, rather than additional rules and restrictions. The phrase is frequently cited in sermons and religious discussions to highlight the ease and joy of a life lived in accordance with Christian principles.