Pharisees

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Ancient Jewish sect

Pharisees

The Pharisees were a prominent religious and political group in Second Temple Judaism. They emerged during the Hasmonean dynasty (140–37 BCE) and played a significant role in the development of Rabbinic Judaism.

Origins and History

The Pharisees originated as a movement within Judaism during the Second Temple period. They are believed to have emerged around the 2nd century BCE in response to the Hellenization policies of the Seleucid Empire. The Pharisees were known for their strict adherence to the Torah and the Oral Law, which they believed was equally authoritative.

Beliefs and Practices

The Pharisees emphasized the importance of the Oral Torah, a body of interpretations and traditions that complemented the written Torah. They believed in the resurrection of the dead, the existence of angels and spirits, and divine providence. Their practices included regular prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. They also observed ritual purity laws and were meticulous in their observance of the Sabbath and other religious festivals.

Conflict with Other Groups

The Pharisees often found themselves in conflict with other Jewish sects, such as the Sadducees, who rejected the Oral Torah and denied the resurrection of the dead. The Pharisees also had differences with the Essenes, a separatist group that lived in communal settings and practiced asceticism. Despite these conflicts, the Pharisees were influential in shaping the future of Judaism.

Role in the New Testament

The Pharisees are frequently mentioned in the New Testament, where they are often portrayed as opponents of Jesus. They are depicted as being concerned with the letter of the law rather than its spirit, leading to numerous confrontations with Jesus over issues such as Sabbath observance and ritual purity.

Legacy

After the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE, the Pharisees' emphasis on the Oral Torah and their interpretative methods became foundational for Rabbinic Judaism. Their teachings were preserved in the Mishnah and later in the Talmud, which continue to be central texts in Judaism.

Related Pages

• Sadducees
• Essenes
• Zealots
• Second Temple Judaism
• Rabbinic Judaism
• Mishnah
• Talmud