In the temple, which had been hallowed by daily sacrificial offerings, prefiguring his coming, and symbolizing his death, no preparations are being made to welcome the Saviour of the world. The Pharisees continue to repeat their long, meaningless prayers in the streets, to be heard of men, in order to obtain the reputation of great piety and devotion.

I templet, som har været helliget af de daglige brændofre, der er forbillede for hans komme, og symboliserer hans død, gøres der ingen forberedelser for at byde verdens Frelser velkommen. Farisærerne fortsætter med at gentage deres lange meningsløse bønner på gaderne, for at blive hørt af mennesker, for at få omdømme af stor fromhed og helligelse.