Pharisees

Definition

The Pharisees were a prominent religious group in ancient Judaism known for their strict adherence to the Law and oral traditions. They played a significant role in the social and political landscape during the Second Temple period, particularly influencing Jewish life and thought through their teachings and interpretations of the Torah, which shaped later Jewish practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Pharisees were known for their belief in an afterlife and resurrection, which distinguished them from other groups like the Sadducees.
2. They emphasized personal piety and the importance of both written and oral law, leading to a rich tradition of interpretation and debate within Judaism.
3. Many early followers of Jesus were drawn from the ranks of the Pharisees, showcasing their influence on early Christianity.
4. The Pharisees opposed Hellenistic influences on Jewish culture and advocated for maintaining traditional Jewish practices amidst external pressures.
5. Their teachings laid the groundwork for Rabbinic Judaism, which became dominant after the fall of the Second Temple in 70 CE.

Review Questions

• How did the beliefs and practices of the Pharisees influence Jewish life during the Second Temple period?
  • The Pharisees greatly impacted Jewish life by emphasizing both written and oral traditions, leading to a more personal approach to faith. Their focus on piety encouraged ordinary Jews to engage with religious laws beyond just rituals performed at the Temple. This engagement contributed to a robust culture of discussion and debate regarding interpretations of scripture, which shaped daily life and established community standards in Judaism.
• In what ways did the interactions between Pharisees and other groups like the Sadducees shape religious discourse during this era?
  • Interactions between Pharisees and Sadducees often led to heated debates over theological issues such as resurrection, purity laws, and interpretations of the Torah. These conflicts highlighted differing views on authority, with Pharisees advocating for oral traditions while Sadducees prioritized written laws. Such discussions helped define boundaries within Judaism, shaping not only internal beliefs but also communal identity during a time of significant change.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of Pharisaic teachings on Rabbinic Judaism and their relevance today.
  • Pharisaic teachings laid a crucial foundation for Rabbinic Judaism by promoting scholarship, interpretation, and a focus on community practices that continue today. Their emphasis on personal responsibility in observing commandments transformed how Jewish law is practiced outside of Temple rituals. This adaptability has allowed modern Judaism to thrive despite historical challenges, making the influence of Pharisaic thought central to understanding contemporary Jewish identity and practice.

Related terms

Sadducees: A rival religious group in ancient Judaism, the Sadducees were known for their elite status and adherence to the written Torah, rejecting oral traditions upheld by the Pharisees.

Sanhedrin: The supreme council and tribunal of the Jews during the Second Temple period, consisting of various religious leaders, including Pharisees and Sadducees, which played a crucial role in Jewish governance.

Rabbinic Judaism: The mainstream form of Judaism that emerged after the destruction of the Second Temple, heavily influenced by the teachings and practices of the Pharisees.