What does the Bible say about rending the heart?

In Joel 2:12-14, the Lord commands His people to turn to Him with all their hearts and to rend their hearts, indicating that genuine repentance comes from an inward change rather than mere outward actions. This concept is emphasized throughout Scripture, as the rending of one's heart signifies a deep acknowledgment of sin and a desperate need for God's grace, rather than simply performing acts of contrition like wearing torn garments. As the text illustrates, the change of heart is a work of divine grace, where God enables His people to truly mourn for their sin and seek His mercy.