The Triumph of Mercy over Sacrifice (Matthew 9 : 9–13; 12 : 1–8)

Authors

  • Stanisław Witkowski Uniwersytet Papieski Jana Pawła II w Krakowie

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21906/rbl.253

Keywords:

mercy, sacrifice, tax collectors, sinners, sabbath day

Abstract

This article presents Jesus’ polemics with the Pharisees concerning the rules of conduct with regards to publicans and sinners (cf. Matthew 9 : 9–13) and the dispute related to celebration of the Sabbath (cf. Mt 12 : 1–8). In both cases, Jesus resolves using the following principle: “I want mercy, not sacrifice” (LXX Ho 6 : 6). In light of this verse, Jesus tries to demonstrate to his opponents that the basic standard reference terms towards those rejected by society and those in need is mercy. The Pharisees’ isolating and pitiless tradition is of merely human origin and does not correspond with the plan of God. That tradition is opposed to mercy, which belongs to the essence of God (cf. Ex 34 : 6).

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Published

2017-06-30

How to Cite

Witkowski, S. (2017). The Triumph of Mercy over Sacrifice (Matthew 9 : 9–13; 12 : 1–8). The Biblical and Liturgical Movement, 70(2), 137–146. https://doi.org/10.21906/rbl.253

Issue

Vol. 70 No. 2 (2017)

Section

Articles

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