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

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).