Pharisees

Definition

The Pharisees were a prominent religious group within Judaism during the Second Temple period, known for their strict adherence to the Law and oral traditions. They played a significant role in shaping Jewish religious thought and practices, particularly through their emphasis on personal piety, legal interpretation, and the importance of community worship. The teachings and interactions of Jesus with the Pharisees provide critical insights into the religious landscape of his time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pharisees believed in the resurrection of the dead and an afterlife, which set them apart from the Sadducees, who did not hold these beliefs.
2. They emphasized the importance of both written scripture and oral tradition, arguing that the latter provided necessary interpretations for living out the Law.
3. The Pharisees were often depicted in the Gospels as opponents of Jesus, highlighting their legalistic approaches and misunderstandings of his message.
4. They contributed significantly to the development of synagogues as places of worship and community gathering during the Second Temple period.
5. After the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE, Pharisaic teachings became foundational for Rabbinic Judaism, influencing Jewish life for centuries.

Review Questions

• How did the beliefs and practices of the Pharisees differ from those of other Jewish groups during the Second Temple period?
  • The Pharisees differed from groups like the Sadducees primarily in their beliefs about resurrection and afterlife, with Pharisees affirming these concepts while Sadducees rejected them. Additionally, Pharisees emphasized both written scripture and oral traditions, believing that interpretations were essential for understanding how to live according to God's laws. This contrasted with Sadducees, who focused solely on the written Torah without accepting additional oral laws.
• Discuss how Jesus' interactions with the Pharisees influenced his teachings and ministry.
  • Jesus’ interactions with the Pharisees were crucial to his ministry as they highlighted key differences in their understanding of the Law. He often challenged their legalistic approach, emphasizing love, mercy, and compassion over strict adherence to rules. This dynamic underscored his message that true righteousness comes from inner transformation rather than mere external compliance with religious regulations.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of Pharisaic thought on modern Judaism after the fall of the Second Temple.
  • After the destruction of the Second Temple, Pharisaic thought became instrumental in shaping Rabbinic Judaism. The emphasis on textual study and oral tradition laid a foundation for Jewish religious practice that continues today. The Talmud, heavily influenced by Pharisaic teachings, became a central text for Jews worldwide. This transition helped ensure that Jewish identity and faith could endure beyond temple rituals, leading to a more adaptable form of worship centered on community and scholarly interpretation.

Related terms

Sadducees:

A religious sect in ancient Judaism that was often in opposition to the Pharisees, primarily composed of the priestly and wealthy elite who rejected oral traditions and focused on the written Torah.

Rabbinic Judaism: The form of Judaism that emerged after the destruction of the Second Temple, heavily influenced by the teachings of the Pharisees, emphasizing the study of texts and oral traditions.

Talmud: A central text in Rabbinic Judaism consisting of the Mishnah and Gemara, which encompasses interpretations and discussions rooted in Pharisaic traditions.