The Jewish leaders were filled with spiritual pride. Their desire for the glorification of self manifested itself even in the service of the sanctuary. They loved the highest seats in the synagogue. They loved greetings in the market places, and were gratified with the sound of their titles on the lips of men. As real piety declined, they became more jealous for their traditions and ceremonies.

De jødiske ledere var opfyldt af åndeligt hovmod. Deres begærlighed efter selvforherligelse gav sig endog udtryk under deres tjeneste i helligdommen. De satte pris på at få de fornemste pladser i synagogen. De holdt af at blive hilst på torvene og nød at høre deres titler lyde fra menneskers læber. Efterhånden som den virkelige fromhed blev mindre, vogtede de mere skinsygt over deres traditioner og ceremonier.