The HaPerush and the Tax Collector
Lukas 18:9–14humilityprayermercy
Two men go to the Beit HaMikdash — one thanking Elohim he is not like others, the other beating his chest crying 'be merciful to me, a sinner.'
The HaPerush prayed to himself about himself. The tax collector would not even lift his eyes. The one who went home justified was the one who came empty-handed. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; whoever humbles himself will be exalted. The first prayer of the Kingdom is mercy.
- Tehillim 51:17A broken and contrite heart, O Elohim, you will not despise
- Yeshayahu 66:2I look on him who is humble and contrite in spirit