The Pharisee & The Publican: A Lesson For Our Times

Idiomela from the Triodion 

Mode 1 

 Brethren, let us not offer prayer as did the Pharisee, 

for he who exalts himself will be brought to humility. 

Let us humble ourselves in the presence of God, 

as did the Publican, and through fasting cry to Him 

“God, be merciful to us sinners.” 

 A Pharisee, by self-esteem dominated, and a Publican, 

in repentance prostrated, both approached You the only Master. 

But the one, after boasting, was deprived of the blessings, 

while the other, not speaking, was counted worthy of Your gifts. 

Confirm me in such sighs as these, Christ God, since You love humanity. 

(Translated by Fr. Seraphim Dedes)