Pharisee

Definition

The Pharisees were an important, powerful group of Jewish religious leaders in Jesus’ time.

• Many of them were middle class businessmen and some of them were also priests.
• Of all the Jewish leaders, the Pharisees were the most strict in obeying the Laws of Moses and other Jewish laws and traditions.
• They were very concerned about keeping the Jewish people separated from the influence of the Gentiles around them. The name “Pharisee” comes from the word to “separate.”
• The Pharisees believed in life after death; they also believed in the existence of angels and other spiritual beings.
• The Pharisees and Sadducees actively opposed Jesus and the early Christians.

(See also: council, Jewish leaders, law, Sadducee)

Bible References

• Acts 26:4
• John 3:1-2
• Luke 11:44
• Matthew 3:7
• Matthew 5:20
• Matthew 9:11
• Matthew 12:2
• Matthew 12:38
• Philippians 3:5

Word Data

• Strong’s: G53300