Pharisee

Definition

Pharisees were a prominent religious group in ancient Judaism known for their strict adherence to the Law and their belief in oral traditions alongside written scripture. They played a significant role in shaping Jewish thought and practice during the Second Temple period and are often portrayed as opponents of Jesus in the New Testament, particularly within the context of Pauline Christianity, which sought to reinterpret Jewish law for a broader audience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pharisees believed in the resurrection of the dead, which distinguished them from the Sadducees, who did not share this belief.
2. They emphasized both written and oral laws, arguing that oral traditions provided essential interpretations of scripture.
3. The term 'Pharisee' comes from the Hebrew word 'perushim,' meaning 'separated ones,' reflecting their commitment to ritual purity and distinct religious practices.
4. Many scholars believe that after the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE, the teachings and practices of the Pharisees laid the foundation for Rabbinic Judaism.
5. In Pauline Christianity, Paul often critiques Pharisaic legalism, arguing that faith in Christ supersedes strict observance of Jewish law.

Review Questions

• How did the beliefs of Pharisees differ from those of other Jewish sects during their time?
  • Pharisees differed from other Jewish groups like the Sadducees primarily in their acceptance of both written and oral traditions. While Sadducees focused solely on the written Torah and rejected concepts such as resurrection, Pharisees embraced these beliefs and sought to interpret the Law more dynamically. Their emphasis on oral tradition allowed them to adapt to changing circumstances while maintaining a strong connection to their religious heritage.
• Discuss how Pharisaic thought influenced early Christian theology, particularly in relation to Paul's teachings.
  • Pharisaic thought significantly influenced early Christian theology by providing a framework for understanding law and ethics. Paul, once a Pharisee himself, initially adhered to these beliefs but later reinterpreted them through his experience with Christ. He argued that faith in Jesus offered salvation outside of strict adherence to Jewish law, highlighting a contrast between Pharisaic legalism and the new covenant established in Christianity.
• Evaluate the role of Pharisees in shaping post-Temple Judaism and their impact on Christian doctrine.
  • After the destruction of the Second Temple, Pharisees played a crucial role in shaping post-Temple Judaism by transitioning religious practice from temple rituals to rabbinic teachings and synagogues. This transformation laid the groundwork for Rabbinic Judaism, which continued to influence Jewish identity. The debates between Pharisaic teachings and early Christian doctrine also shaped key theological concepts such as grace versus law, affecting how future generations understood faith within both religions.

Related terms

Sadducees: A rival religious group to the Pharisees, the Sadducees were composed mainly of the priestly and wealthy elite, rejecting oral traditions and focusing on the written Torah.

Talmud: A central text in Rabbinic Judaism, the Talmud consists of the Mishnah and the Gemara, which elaborate on Jewish law and ethics, reflecting the teachings of the Pharisees.

Legalism: A belief system that emphasizes strict adherence to laws and rules, which was characteristic of Pharisaic practices and later critiqued by figures like Paul.