The term “Pharisee” appears frequently in the New Testament, often in connection with Jesus’ ministry and teachings. Pharisees were a prominent religious group in Judaism during the Second Temple period. They played a significant role in the religious, social, and political landscape of that time. While they were known for their devotion to the law and religious traditions, Pharisees are also frequently criticized in the Bible, particularly by Jesus, for their hypocrisy and legalism.
This topic will explore who the Pharisees were, their beliefs and practices, and the lessons we can learn from their depiction in the Bible.
Who Were the Pharisees?
The Pharisees were a Jewish sect that emerged around the second century BCE. They were influential leaders and teachers of the law, deeply committed to preserving Jewish traditions and interpreting the Torah. The name “Pharisee” is derived from a Hebrew word meaning “separated,” reflecting their emphasis on living a life set apart from sin and devoted to God’s commandments.
1. Religious Scholars and Teachers
Pharisees were well-versed in the Scriptures and the oral traditions that complemented the written law. They served as teachers and interpreters of Jewish law, often providing guidance on how to apply the Torah to daily life.
2. Opponents of Hellenism
During a time when Greek culture (Hellenism) influenced many aspects of Jewish life, the Pharisees stood firm in preserving Jewish identity and religious practices. They resisted assimilation and sought to uphold the laws given by God.
3. A Divisive Group
Pharisees were known for their strict interpretation of the law and their separation from those they considered sinners or impure. This sometimes led to conflict with other Jewish groups, such as the Sadducees, and later with Jesus and His followers.
Beliefs and Practices of the Pharisees
The Pharisees adhered to specific beliefs and practices that set them apart from other groups in Jewish society.
1. Strict Observance of the Law
The Pharisees were meticulous in their observance of the Mosaic Law, including the Ten Commandments and the numerous laws found in the Torah. They also followed oral traditions, which they believed helped explain and expand upon the written law.
2. Emphasis on Purity
Purity was a central theme for the Pharisees. They emphasized ritual cleanliness and adhered to strict dietary laws. They also avoided contact with those they deemed unclean, such as tax collectors, Gentiles, and certain sinners.
3. Belief in the Afterlife
Unlike the Sadducees, the Pharisees believed in the resurrection of the dead, angels, and the existence of an afterlife. This belief influenced their emphasis on moral living and obedience to God’s laws.
4. Teaching in Synagogues
The Pharisees were active in teaching the law in synagogues, making them highly influential among the Jewish people. Their teachings often shaped the religious practices of the general population.
Pharisees and Their Interactions with Jesus
The New Testament frequently depicts interactions between Jesus and the Pharisees. These encounters highlight key theological and moral issues that were at the heart of Jesus’ ministry.
1. Conflicts Over the Law
The Pharisees often criticized Jesus for actions they believed violated the law, such as healing on the Sabbath (Matthew 12:9-14) or allowing His disciples to pick grain on the Sabbath (Mark 2:23-28). Jesus responded by emphasizing the spirit of the law over rigid legalism.
2. Accusations of Hypocrisy
One of Jesus’ most pointed criticisms of the Pharisees was their hypocrisy. In Matthew 23, Jesus delivers a series of “woes” against the Pharisees, accusing them of outwardly appearing righteous while neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness. He says, “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence” (Matthew 23:25).
3. Teachings on True Righteousness
Jesus contrasted the Pharisees’ emphasis on external compliance with the law with His teaching on true righteousness, which begins in the heart. For example, in the Sermon on the Mount, He says, “For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:20).
4. Nicodemus: A Pharisee Who Sought Jesus
Not all Pharisees opposed Jesus. Nicodemus, a Pharisee and member of the Sanhedrin, came to Jesus to seek understanding (John 3:1-21). His story shows that some Pharisees were open to Jesus’ message, despite the general opposition from their group.
Lessons from the Pharisees in the Bible
The Pharisees provide both positive and negative examples for believers today. Here are some key lessons we can learn from their portrayal in the Bible:
1. The Danger of Legalism
The Pharisees’ focus on outward compliance with the law led them to neglect the heart of God’s commands-love, mercy, and justice. This serves as a warning against prioritizing rules and traditions over a genuine relationship with God.
2. The Importance of Humility
The Pharisees were often characterized by pride and self-righteousness, believing themselves superior to others. Jesus consistently taught the importance of humility, reminding us that God values a contrite heart over external appearances (Luke 18:9-14).
3. True Righteousness Comes from the Heart
Jesus emphasized that true righteousness is not about outward actions alone but about the condition of the heart. This means loving God and others sincerely, not simply following rules for the sake of appearance.
4. Be Open to Truth
While many Pharisees rejected Jesus, Nicodemus exemplifies the importance of seeking truth, even when it challenges one’s beliefs. This openness is essential for spiritual growth and understanding.
Common Misconceptions About the Pharisees
It is important to avoid oversimplifying or misrepresenting the Pharisees based on their portrayal in the New Testament.
1. Pharisees Were Not Entirely Evil
The Pharisees were devout in their commitment to God’s law and played a crucial role in preserving Jewish traditions. While some of their practices were criticized by Jesus, they were not inherently evil.
2. Not All Pharisees Opposed Jesus
While many Pharisees opposed Jesus, some, like Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea, were sympathetic to His message. These examples remind us that individuals should not be judged solely based on their group affiliation.
3. Pharisees Reflect a Universal Struggle
The tendencies of the Pharisees-legalism, self-righteousness, and hypocrisy-are not unique to them. These are universal struggles that can affect anyone. Their story serves as a mirror, inviting us to examine our own hearts.
In the Bible, the Pharisees were a prominent group known for their devotion to the law and Jewish traditions. While their commitment to preserving God’s commandments was admirable, their legalism, hypocrisy, and pride often led them astray from the true spirit of God’s teachings.
The interactions between Jesus and the Pharisees provide valuable lessons for believers today. They remind us of the importance of humility, sincerity, and focusing on the heart of God’s commands rather than merely external compliance.
Ultimately, the Pharisees serve as both a cautionary tale and a call to reflect on our own faith. By learning from their example, we can strive to live lives that honor God through love, truth, and genuine righteousness.