The Practice of the Pharisee : Fasting Twice and Paying Tithes on the Whole Income

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Thirtieth Week : Sunday*

*Gospel :  Luke 18: 9-14*

*First Reading : Sir 35:12-14, 16-18*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 34:2-24*

*Second Reading 2 Tim 4:6-8, 16-18*

*The Practice of the Pharisee : Fasting Twice and Paying Tithes on the Whole Income*

*1) The Meaning of the Pharisee’s Practices*

*A) Fasting Twice a Week*

According to Jewish law, fasting was officially required only once a year—on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur).

However, devout Pharisees voluntarily fasted twice a week, usually on Monday and Thursday, to show their religious zeal.

Fasting symbolizes self-denial and spiritual discipline, but for the Pharisee, it became a badge of pride rather than a sign of humility.

*B) Paying Tithes on All Income*

The Law of Moses required tithing on certain crops and produce (cf. Leviticus 27:30; Deuteronomy 14:22).

The Pharisees, wanting to go beyond the law, tithed even on small herbs like mint and cumin (cf. Matthew 23:23).

This shows scrupulous observance of the law, but Jesus criticized them for neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness—the weightier matters of the law.

*2) The Deeper Problem: Spiritual Pride*

The Pharisee’s actions, though religiously correct, became self-centered rather than God-centered.

He trusted in his own righteousness instead of God’s mercy.

His prayer was not thanksgiving but self-praise: “I am not like other men.”

His fasting and tithing, meant to honor God, turned into a display of superiority over others.

*3) The Lesson Jesus Teaches*

*A) True Religion Comes from the Heart*

God is not impressed by outward acts alone, but by inner humility.

The Pharisee’s fasting and tithing lacked love and repentance.

The tax collector, though externally a sinner, had a contrite heart, which God values more than ritual.

*B) Good Works Must Be Joined with Humility*

Fasting and tithing are good and commendable—when done with sincerity.

They become empty if done to gain recognition or justify oneself.

Jesus invites us to do good in secret, “and your Father who sees in secret will reward you” (Matthew 6:18).

*4) Reflections for Today*

*A) Are my religious practices drawing me closer to God or making me feel superior to others?*

Fasting, prayer, or giving can easily become about self-image rather than love.

*B) Do I focus on both the external and the internal?*

God wants our heart—our acts of devotion must spring from genuine repentance and love.

*C) Am I aware of my need for mercy?*

The Pharisee boasted of what he did; the tax collector begged for forgiveness. The one who humbled himself was justified.

*D) Fasting and tithing are still valuable today* they help discipline our desires and express gratitude—but they must be acts of love, not pride.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalor*