Luke 18:13

Arabic 2023 (SAB) (الكتاب الشريف)

أَمَّا جَابِي الضَّرَائِبِ، فَوَقَفَ مِنْ بَعِيدٍ وَهُوَ لَا يَشَاءُ حَتَّى أَنْ يَنْظُرَ إِلَى السَّمَاءِ. بَلْ كَانَ يَضْرِبُ صَدْرَهُ وَيَقُولُ: ’اللّٰهُمَّ ارْحَمْنِي أَنَا الْخَاطِئَ.‘

What Does This Mean?

This verse is from the story of two men praying in the temple: a Pharisee and a publican (tax collector). The tax collector, feeling unworthy, stands far away and hits his chest saying he needs God's mercy because he knows he has sinned. This shows humility before God.

Explained for Children

Imagine you did something wrong and were scared to face your parents. You would stand far from them, feel sad inside, and ask for forgiveness because you know you made a mistake. That’s what the tax collector is doing here, but with God instead of his parents.

Historical Background

The Gospel of Luke was written by Luke, a doctor who traveled with Paul, around AD 60-80. The audience was primarily Gentiles (non-Jewish) and it emphasizes Jesus' ministry to all people, including sinners. In Jewish culture, publicans were often seen as traitors because they worked for the Roman government.

Living It Out Today

Imagine someone at work makes a big mistake but instead of blaming others, they admit their fault and ask for forgiveness. This shows humility and honesty, just like the tax collector who knew he needed God’s mercy.

Topics

• humility
• forgiveness
• repentance
• sin
• mercy
• prayer

Related Verses

• Psalm 51:3
• Ezekiel 36:26-27
• Matthew 9:10-13
• Romans 3:23
• James 4:6

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the publican stand afar off?

He stood far away because he felt unworthy and sinful, showing his humility before God.

What can we learn from the Pharisee's attitude compared to the publican’s?

The story contrasts pride with humility. The Pharisee was proud of himself, while the publican recognized he needed God's mercy.

How does this verse relate to forgiveness in our lives?

It teaches that acknowledging our faults and seeking God’s forgiveness is a sign of true repentance and humility.

Can you give an example of how someone might apply this story at work?

An employee who makes a mistake could admit it to their boss, take responsibility, and ask for forgiveness instead of blaming others or covering up the error.