Cross-referencesExplore similar Bible verses on Matthew 12:7 in English Standard Version "And if you had known what this means, ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice,’ you would not have condemned the guiltless." Ho 6:6 For I desire steadfast love and not sacrifice, the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings.Mic 6:6 “With what shall I come before the Lord, and bow myself before God on high? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old?Mt 9:13 Go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”