The Pharisees were a prominent Jewish religious group during the Second Temple period, known for their strict adherence to the Law of Moses and oral traditions. They believed in the resurrection of the dead and the existence of angels, setting them apart from other groups such as the Sadducees. Their emphasis on piety and legalism had a significant impact on the development of Judaism and influenced early Christianity.
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The Pharisees were known for their belief in both written and oral laws, which they argued were essential for interpreting the Torah correctly.
They played a key role in shaping Jewish religious practices and customs, especially after the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE.
Pharisaic teachings contributed significantly to the formation of Rabbinic Judaism, which became the dominant form of Judaism after the Second Temple period.
Unlike the Sadducees, Pharisees emphasized personal piety and ethics, which resonated with many common people of their time.
The New Testament portrays Pharisees as opponents of Jesus, highlighting their legalistic views, which led to tensions between early Christians and Jewish authorities.
Review Questions
How did the beliefs and practices of the Pharisees influence early Jewish society?
The Pharisees had a profound impact on early Jewish society by emphasizing both written and oral laws. Their focus on personal piety, ethics, and legal interpretation resonated with many Jews during the Second Temple period. As they shaped religious practices and customs, their influence continued even after the destruction of the Temple in 70 CE, leading to the development of Rabbinic Judaism that guided Jewish life in subsequent centuries.
Compare and contrast the beliefs of the Pharisees with those of the Sadducees regarding religious law and resurrection.
The Pharisees believed in both written and oral laws, emphasizing their importance for interpreting religious practice. In contrast, the Sadducees rejected oral traditions, adhering strictly to the written Law of Moses. While the Pharisees accepted concepts such as resurrection and angels, which were key components of their faith, Sadducees denied these beliefs. This fundamental difference created a significant divide between these two influential Jewish groups during the Second Temple period.
Evaluate the significance of Pharisaic teachings in shaping modern Judaism and its practices.
Pharisaic teachings are vital in understanding modern Judaism as they laid the groundwork for Rabbinic Judaism after the destruction of the Second Temple. Their interpretations of laws and traditions became foundational elements within Jewish religious life, influencing how Jews practice their faith today. The Talmud, which compiles these teachings, continues to be central in Jewish education and legal discussions, highlighting how deeply rooted Pharisaic thought remains in contemporary Jewish observance and identity.
A rival Jewish sect during the Second Temple period that rejected oral traditions and only accepted the written Law of Moses, denying beliefs like resurrection and angels.
Rabbinic Judaism: The form of Judaism that emerged after the destruction of the Second Temple, heavily influenced by Pharisaic teachings and focusing on the interpretation of the Torah and oral law.
A central text of Rabbinic Judaism containing a compilation of teachings, laws, and traditions that developed from Pharisaic practices and interpretations.