It was the custom in old times for people to tear (or “rend”) their clothes as a sign of grief, remorse, or other strong emotions. For example:
- Jacob did it when he thought his son Joseph was dead (see Genesis 37:34).
- Captain Moroni’s followers did it to show their commitment to defending their country (see Alma 46:12–22).
- Job did it to mourn the loss of his family and property (see Job 1:20).
As with any symbolic gesture, there were probably some people who tore their clothes just for show, without any real feeling behind it. The Lord made it clear how He feels about that! He told the prophet Joel that He values sincerity most of all:
“Rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness” (Joel 2:12–13).
In other words, symbolically tearing clothes was good only if was accompanied by a change of heart!
It’s reminiscent of the time the prophet Samuel told Saul, “To obey is better than sacrifice” (1 Samuel 15:22). The outward things we do are only as beneficial as the feelings behind them. Those actions—whether it’s being baptized or putting on a CTR ring—by themselves aren’t meaningful without sincerity. The good news is that we can choose right now to direct our hearts to Him!