The Bible verse Luke 18:9-14 from the King James Version (KJV) reads:

"9 And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:

10 Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.

11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.

12 I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.

13 And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.

14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted."

This passage is a powerful and poignant parable spoken by Jesus to illustrate the importance of humility and the danger of self-righteousness. The context of this passage is important to understand fully, as it comes at a time when Jesus is teaching his disciples about the kingdom of God and the necessity of true repentance.

The key theme of this parable is the stark contrast between the attitudes and prayers of the Pharisee and the publican. The Pharisee, a member of the religious elite, is self-righteous and filled with pride. He boasts about his own goodness and looks down on others, particularly the publican, who was seen as a sinner and an outcast in Jewish society. In contrast, the publican stands at a distance, acknowledges his own sinfulness, and humbly asks for God's mercy.

The symbolism in this parable is rich and multilayered. The two men represent different attitudes towards righteousness and salvation. The Pharisee embodies the attitude of self-righteousness and legalism, believing that his own actions and religious observance make him worthy in the eyes of God. The publican, on the other hand, represents the attitude of humility and repentance, recognizing his own unworthiness and relying on God's mercy for forgiveness.

The temple, the setting of the parable, serves as a powerful symbol of religious practice and worship. The fact that both men go to the temple to pray highlights the universal human need for connection with the divine. However, the way in which they approach God in prayer reveals their true spiritual condition.

The phrase "God be merciful to me a sinner" spoken by the publican has become known as the "Jesus Prayer" in Christian tradition. It encapsulates the essence of true repentance and reliance on God's grace. This prayer is a powerful reminder of the heart of the gospel – that salvation comes through faith and grace, not through our own works or self-righteousness.

The lesson of this parable is clear – God looks at the heart, and true righteousness is a matter of humility and repentance, not self-exaltation or outward appearances. The last verse, "for everyone that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted," serves as a warning to those who trust in their own righteousness and a comfort to those who come to God with a humble and contrite spirit.

In conclusion, Luke 18:9-14 from the King James Version is a timeless and powerful teaching of Jesus that continues to challenge and convict readers today. It reminds us of the importance of humility, repentance, and the grace of God in our spiritual lives. This parable serves as a potent rebuke to self-righteousness and a call to genuine humility and reliance on God's mercy.