¡Cˈäx ech alak, tijonelab re ri Pixab xukujeˈ ri alak tataˈib fariseos! ¡Xak quieb wäch alak! Ri alak cäya alak che ri Dios ru lajujil ri kˈebun, ri anís, ri comino, yoˈm cˈu can alak u banic ri tijonic ri nim u banic ri cˈo pa ri Pixab. Man cäban tä alak ri jicomal, man cätokˈobisaj tä alak qui wäch niqˈuiaj winak chic, man kas tä cäcojon alak che ri Dios. Are waˈ ri rajwaxic cäban alak, man cäya tä cˈu can alak u banic ri niqˈuiaj chic.
What Does This Mean?
Jesus is speaking to the scribes and Pharisees, calling them hypocrites because they focus on small details like tithing tiny herbs but ignore more important things like justice, mercy, and faith.
Explained for Children
Imagine if you spent all your time counting how many pennies were in your piggy bank but forgot to share your toys with friends. Jesus is saying it's better to be kind and fair than to just focus on small stuff.
Historical Background
Matthew wrote this verse around 80-90 AD, directed at early Christian communities. At the time, Jewish religious leaders were meticulous about following the law but often overlooked its core values of justice and mercy.
Living It Out Today
In today's context, someone might be so focused on minor rules in their workplace that they forget to be honest or fair with colleagues. It's important to balance attention to detail with moral integrity.
Why did Jesus criticize tithing small herbs but not other tithes?
Jesus wasn't against tithing itself, but he highlighted that focusing on trivial details while neglecting justice and mercy was misplaced priority.
What does this verse teach about hypocrisy?
It teaches that hypocrisy arises when one strictly follows minor rules while ignoring the core moral values of faith and compassion.
How can we avoid being hypocritical in our religious practices?
By ensuring that our actions align with the core values of justice, mercy, and faith, not just following outward rituals or minor rules.
What does 'weightier matters' refer to in this context?
'Weightier matters' refers to the fundamental principles of law such as judgment (justice), mercy, and faith, which are more significant than meticulous observance of smaller laws.