"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You do not forget the mint, anise and cumin seeds when you demand the tenth of everything; but then, you forget what is most fundamental in the law: justice, mercy and faith! You should have done these things without neglecting the others. Blind guides! You strain out a mosquito, but swallow a camel.
Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You fill the plate and the cup, with theft and violence, and then pronounce a blessing over them. Blind Pharisee! Purify the inside first, then the outside, too, will be purified." - Matthew 23:23-26
(How could JESUS call such men hypocrites when they were so versed in the knowledge of the Scriptures?
In the language of JESUS, the word "hypocrite" equally denotes what is superficial as well as the one who makes light of what is of GOD. Obviously not all the Pharisees were hypocrites; but JESUS denounces a frequent deformation in the religious elite. HE calls us to be wary of those institutions born of possessors of wealth and culture who aspire to direct others--and the Church--without having learned from the poor or practiced true humility.
The mystery of GOD is so deep that no one can present himself as HIS lieutenant. The Pharisees trained, taught and gained many followers in the faith but their fasts and alms were already rewarded. Pride and love of money were given their place.)
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