Blessing manifests itself primarily as the power of fertility, both within the family and in the practice of farming, and as such represents a sharing in the life of God and the power to pass on that life by virtue of the blessing of creation.- Derek A. Rivard, Blessing the World: Ritual and Lay Piety in Medieval Religion. (Washington, D.C: Catholic University Press, 2009), 27.
This definition of blessing comes from the historical-critical viewpoint. From a theological point of view the historical-critical is limited because it doesn't regard the Church as it is, instituted by Christ as the means for salvation of all mankind. Rather it views the Church as a historical accident... (that's strong but that's what this kidn of definition ignores is the spiritual authority of the Church.)
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