Book of Matthew - Chapter 5 - Verse 20

When Jesus spoke these words, he was challenging his followers to go beyond the superficial righteousness displayed by the religious leaders of his time, the scribes and Pharisees. The scribes and Pharisees were known for meticulously following religious laws and traditions, yet their hearts were filled with pride, hypocrisy, and self-righteousness. Jesus was calling his disciples to a higher standard of righteousness that goes beyond outward appearances and legalistic observance of the law. True righteousness, in Jesus' eyes, is not just about following rules and rituals, but about having a genuine faith and a transformed heart that is aligned with God's will. By emphasizing the importance of inner righteousness, Jesus was teaching his followers that their relationship with God should be characterized by humility, compassion, love, and mercy. Only by surpassing the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees can one truly enter into the kingdom of heaven.

When Jesus speaks of righteousness exceeding that of the scribes and Pharisees in Matthew 5:20, he is not simply referring to outward acts of piety or adherence to the Law. The scribes and Pharisees were known for their strict observance of religious practices, but Jesus emphasizes that true righteousness goes beyond external actions to the heart and inner motivations. The Greek word for righteousness used in this verse, δικαιοσύνη (dikaiosunē), encompasses not only a moral and ethical standard but also a relational aspect with God. In essence, Jesus is calling for a righteousness that is rooted in a genuine love for God and others, rather than a legalistic approach to religion. This interpretation aligns with other teachings of Jesus throughout the Gospels, where he emphasizes the importance of the heart and intention behind one's actions. Therefore, to enter the kingdom of heaven, one must possess a righteousness that surpasses mere outward displays of religious devotion and extends to a true and deep relationship with God.