Biblical History: Who were The Pharisees?

Ever wondered about the Pharisees you read about in the Bible? They’re often shown as Jesus’ opponents, but there’s so much more to their story. Who were the Pharisees, and what was their role in Jesus’ time? The Pharisees meaning goes beyond just being “bad guys”—they were a group of Jewish leaders devoted to following God’s Law, yet their strict rules sometimes clashed with Jesus’ teachings. Why did the Pharisees hate Jesus, and what can their story teach us today? In this article, we’ll explore who the Pharisees were, how they differed from other groups like the Sadducees, and what early Christian leaders said about them.

What is a Pharisee in the Bible?

In the Bible, the term “Pharisee” refers to a prominent Jewish religious and political group during the time of Jesus. The term “Pharisee” likely derives from the Hebrew perushim, a Hebrew word meaning “separated ones,” suggesting their commitment to living a life set apart according to their interpretation of God’s Law. They were known for their strict adherence to both the written Law of Moses and their extensive oral traditions, which they believed were also given by God and passed down through generations. These traditions aimed to apply the Law to every area of daily life, ensuring holiness and purity.

Historically, the Pharisees emerged during the Second Temple period, after the Jewish people returned from exile. They were a lay movement, meaning they weren’t primarily priests (like the Sadducees), but rather scribes, scholars, and ordinary people who were deeply devoted to studying and living out the Law. They held considerable influence among the common people because of their perceived piety and dedication to God’s Word. They were passionate about making faith practical and relevant for everyone, not just the temple priests.

For us as Christians, understanding the Pharisees is crucial because they are frequently mentioned in the Gospels, often in interactions and debates with Jesus. These encounters highlight the differences between Jesus’ teachings and the Pharisees’ interpretations of the Law. While Jesus affirmed the importance of the Law, He often challenged the Pharisees’ emphasis on external rules and traditions over the internal transformation of the heart and the spirit of the Law, which is love for God and neighbor. I see this as a powerful lesson: true faith is not just about following rules about a genuine relationship with God that changes us from the inside out. So, let’s learn from the Scriptures about the Pharisees and allow it to deepen our appreciation for the grace and truth found in Jesus Christ.

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Who Were the Pharisees During Jesus’ Time?

During Jesus’ time, the Pharisees were one of the major religious and political factions within Judaism. They were a highly respected group, primarily made up of scribes, teachers of the Law, and devout laypeople. Unlike the Sadducees, who were mainly associated with the temple and the priestly aristocracy, the Pharisees were more connected to the synagogues and the everyday lives of the Jewish people. Their influence stemmed from their deep knowledge of the Scriptures and their commitment to applying God’s Law to every aspect of life, making holiness accessible to everyone, not just the priests in the temple.

Historically, the Pharisees traced their roots back to the Maccabean period, a time when faithful Jews resisted Hellenistic (Greek) influence. They were passionate about preserving Jewish identity and religious purity by meticulously observing the Law and the traditions that had developed around it. They believed in the authority of the entire Old Testament, the existence of angels and spirits, and the resurrection of the dead—beliefs that set them apart from the Sadducees. Their dedication to the Law was genuine, and they sincerely sought to live in a way that was pleasing to God.

For us as Christians, understanding the Pharisees in their historical context helps us appreciate the religious landscape Jesus navigated. They were the religious leaders and teachers that most people looked up to. Jesus’ interactions with them weren’t just random arguments; they were powerful theological discussions that revealed the heart of God’s Law and the nature of true righteousness. While Jesus often critiqued their legalism and hypocrisy, He also acknowledged their zeal for God. I see in the Pharisees a reminder of how easily good intentions can become rigid rules that miss the spirit of love and grace. So, let’s learn from their story and strive for a faith that is both deeply rooted in God’s Word and overflowing with His love and compassion for others.

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What Did the Pharisees Believe and Practice?

The beliefs and practices of the Pharisees were centered on their deep reverence for God’s Law, as revealed in the Old Testament. They believed that the entire written Law was divinely inspired and authoritative. But what truly distinguished them was their equally strong commitment to the “oral law” or traditions of the elders. They believed these traditions were also given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai and passed down orally through generations. These traditions provided detailed interpretations and applications of the written Law to cover every conceivable situation in daily life, from dietary rules to Sabbath observance and ritual purity. Their practices, such as tithing and frequent synagogue attendance, aimed to extend priestly holiness to everyday life, but Jesus critiqued their focus on external compliance over internal righteousness (Matthew 23:23–28).

In practice, the Pharisees were meticulous in their efforts to live according to these laws and traditions. They were known for their strict observance of the Sabbath, tithing (giving a tenth of their income), and practices related to ritual purity, such as ceremonial washing. They were also dedicated students of the Scriptures and were active in teaching the people in synagogues. Their goal was to live a holy life, set apart for God, and they believed that by following the Law and traditions precisely, they could achieve this holiness and help all of Israel become a holy nation.

Historically their emphasis on the oral law and their detailed practices were an attempt to build a “fence around the Law,” preventing people from accidentally breaking God’s commandments. They sincerely believed this was the way to please God and usher in the Messiah’s kingdom. But as the Gospels show, Jesus often challenged them, not on the importance of God’s Law itself on their rigid interpretations and the way their traditions sometimes overshadowed the weightier matters of the Law, like justice, mercy, and faithfulness. I see this as a powerful lesson about the human tendency to focus on external performance rather than the internal state of the heart. Our faith, rooted in Christ, calls us to a righteousness that comes from within, transformed by God’s grace, leading to actions motivated by love rather than a desire for external approval. Let the example of the Pharisees encourage us to seek a genuine, heartfelt devotion to God that expresses itself in love for Him and for others.

What was the relationship between the Pharisees and Jesus?

The Gospels depict frequent conflicts, as the Pharisees challenged Jesus’ authority, Sabbath practices, and association with sinners (Mark 2:15–17, Luke 5:29–32). However, some Pharisees engaged positively, like Nicodemus, who sought Jesus’ teachings (John 3:1–21).

The Pharisees were, in many ways, the spiritual leaders of their time. They were deeply committed to following God’s law, meticulously observing every detail, and striving for holiness in their daily lives. They were the Bible scholars, the theologians, the ones who knew the scriptures inside and out. In that sense, Jesus had something in common with them. He, too, was deeply rooted in the Jewish tradition, often quoting and interpreting the scriptures in his teachings.

But here’s where things get interesting. Jesus often engaged with the Pharisees in lively discussions, debates even, about the meaning of the law. He challenged their interpretations, urging them to look beyond the letter of the law to the heart of it. He emphasized love, compassion, and forgiveness, sometimes in ways that seemed to contradict their strict adherence to rules and regulations.

Think of it like this: the Pharisees were focused on the how of following God, while Jesus was focused on the why. They were concerned with outward actions, while Jesus was concerned with inward transformation. And while their approaches differed, both were ultimately seeking to honor God and live a life of righteousness.

So, the relationship between Jesus and the Pharisees wasn’t always easy it was always purposeful. It was a relationship that challenged both sides to grow, to learn, and to see God’s truth in new and unexpected ways. And it’s a relationship that continues to inspire us today, urging us to seek a deeper, more meaningful connection with our faith (Wilson, 2022).

Table: Key Aspects of Pharisees in Christian Theology

Aspect	Description	Biblical Example
Definition	Jewish sect focused on Torah and oral traditions	Matthew 23:2–3
Beliefs	Resurrection, oral law, ritual purity	Acts 23:8
Jesus’ Relationship	Mixed; often conflicted, some engaged positively	John 3:1–21 (Nicodemus)
Opposition Reasons	Theological differences, authority threats, perceived blasphemy	Mark 2:5–7
Sadducees Comparison	Accepted oral law and resurrection, unlike Sadducees	Acts 23:6–8
Modern Meaning	Symbol of hypocrisy or legalism in Christian contexts	Luke 18:9–14

Why were the Pharisees against Jesus?

To understand why the Pharisees opposed Jesus, we need to look at the cultural and religious landscape of their time. The Pharisees, as I mentioned, were deeply committed to preserving the purity of Jewish tradition. They saw themselves as guardians of the law, protectors of the faith against the corrupting influences of the outside world (Bourgel, 2017, pp. 171–200).

Jesus came along and started shaking things up. He challenged their authority, questioned their interpretations of scripture, and associated with people they considered to be “sinners” – tax collectors, prostitutes, the marginalized and outcasts of society. In their eyes, Jesus was undermining the very foundations of their faith.

But it wasn’t just about religious differences. It was also about power and control. The Pharisees held a position of influence in the community, and Jesus’ teachings threatened their status. People were drawn to his message of love and grace, and his popularity was growing rapidly. The Pharisees feared losing their authority, their ability to shape the religious and social life of the people (Taylor, 2000, pp. 299–310).

Jesus’ claim to be the Messiah, the Son of God, was seen as blasphemy by many Pharisees. They couldn’t accept that this humble carpenter from Nazareth could be the long-awaited savior of Israel. Their preconceived notions and expectations blinded them to the truth of who Jesus really was.

But let’s not paint all the Pharisees with the same brush. Some of them were genuinely seeking truth and were open to Jesus’ message. Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea, for example, were Pharisees who secretly believed in Jesus and played important roles in his ministry and burial.

The Pharisees’ opposition to Jesus stemmed from a combination of religious conviction, fear of losing power, and a misunderstanding of his true identity. It’s a reminder that even those who are deeply religious can sometimes miss the heart of God’s message (Hartin, 2010).

What is the difference between Pharisees and Sadducees?

The Pharisees, as we’ve discussed, were focused on interpreting and applying the law to everyday life. They believed in the resurrection of the dead, the existence of angels and demons, and the importance of oral tradition in understanding scripture. They were popular among the common people and sought to make holiness accessible to all (Facchini, 2019).

The Sadducees, on the other hand, were primarily concerned with maintaining the Temple and its rituals. They were often wealthy and aristocratic, holding positions of power in the priesthood and the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council. Unlike the Pharisees, they rejected the oral tradition and only accepted the written law, the Torah, as authoritative. They also denied the resurrection of the dead, the existence of angels, and any afterlife (Edsall, n.d.).

The Pharisees were more progressive and adaptable, Although the Sadducees were more conservative and traditional. The Pharisees sought to make the law relevant to the changing times, Although the Sadducees sought to preserve the status quo.

Their differences also extended to their views on politics. The Sadducees were generally more willing to cooperate with the Roman authorities to maintain their power and privilege, Although the Pharisees were more resistant to Roman influence and sought to uphold Jewish autonomy.

So, while both groups were influential in Jewish society, they represented different perspectives and priorities. The Pharisees were focused on personal piety and making the law accessible to all, Although the Sadducees were focused on maintaining the Temple and their own power. Their contrasting beliefs and values often led to conflict and disagreement, shaping the religious and political landscape of Jesus’ time (Baloyi, 2010, pp. 1–7). These divisions not only influenced the Jewish community but also set the stage for the emergence of new religious movements, including early Christianity. In this context, the development of baptism as a significant ritual reflected a shift in spiritual focus, with many adopting baptist beliefs and practices that emphasized repentance and the individual’s relationship with God. Consequently, the interplay between the Pharisees, Sadducees, and emerging sects contributed to a rich and complex tapestry of faith during this pivotal era.

What Does It Mean to Be a Pharisee Today?

In biblical times, the Pharisees were a Jewish sect known for their strict adherence to the Law of Moses and oral traditions. They sought to preserve their faith amidst cultural pressures Jesus often criticized them for prioritizing rules over mercy, for hypocrisy, and for missing the heart of God’s love (Matthew 23:23-24).

Today, to be called a Pharisee is to be accused of similar traits—focusing on external appearances, rigid rules, or self-righteousness rather than the transformative power of grace. It’s a warning against a faith that looks good on the outside but lacks the inner renewal that comes from a relationship with Christ.

As Christians, we might unknowingly slip into Pharisaical tendencies when we judge others harshly for not meeting our standards, when we boast in our good works, or when we prioritize church traditions over loving our neighbors. Psychologically, this can stem from a need for control or validation, a fear of vulnerability that hides behind a mask of perfection. Historically, we see this in moments when the church has emphasized dogma over compassion, much like the Pharisees did.

But here’s the good news: Jesus calls us to a better way. In Matthew 5:20, He urges us to surpass the righteousness of the Pharisees by embracing a heart transformed by love and humility. Let’s examine ourselves—where are we clinging to rules instead of grace? Where are we pointing fingers instead of extending hands? Being a Pharisee today means missing the joy of God’s kingdom for the burden of self-made religion. So, let’s choose the path of mercy, walking humbly with our Savior, ensuring our faith is alive with love, not just law. May we reflect Christ’s heart in all we do, shining His light to a watching world.

What Did the Early Church Fathers Teach About the Pharisees?

The Pharisees, as depicted in the Gospels, were often at odds with Jesus, and the early Church Fathers built on this narrative to teach vital lessons for the fledgling Christian community.

The early Church Fathers, such as Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, and John Chrysostom, frequently referenced the Pharisees as cautionary examples of religious hypocrisy and legalism. Justin Martyr, in his Dialogue with Trypho (2nd century), portrayed the Pharisees as emblematic of those who reject Christ, clinging to the letter of the Law while missing its fulfillment in Jesus (John 5:39-40). He urged believers to embrace the new covenant of grace over the old ways of rigid tradition. Similarly, Irenaeus of Lyons, in Against Heresies, highlighted how the Pharisees’ focus on external rituals blinded them to the Messiah, teaching Christians to seek the spirit of the Law—love and faith—over mere observance.

John Chrysostom, in his homilies, was particularly vocal, often criticizing the Pharisees for their pride and hypocrisy as seen in Matthew 23:27-28, where Jesus calls them “whitewashed tombs.” He warned the church against adopting a similar mindset, emphasizing that true righteousness comes from a heart aligned with God, not from public displays of piety. Psychologically, this reflects a human tendency to seek approval through outward acts, a trap the Fathers saw as dangerous to spiritual growth. Historically, their teachings were shaped by the need to distinguish Christianity from Judaism in a time of tension, using the Pharisees as a foil to highlight the transformative power of Christ’s message.

For us today, the Fathers’ teachings are a mirror. Are we, like the Pharisees, more concerned with how we appear than who we are before God? Their words echo Jesus’ call to humility and authenticity. Let’s heed their wisdom, ensuring our faith is not a performance but a reflection of Christ’s love. May we grow in grace, learning from history to live out a vibrant, sincere walk with our Lord.

What Is the Meaning of the Word “Pharisee”?

The word “Pharisee” originates from the Hebrew term Perushim, which means “separated ones” or “set apart.” This name reflects their identity as a Jewish sect during the Second Temple period (circa 2nd century BC to 1st century AD), who distinguished themselves by their strict adherence to the Torah and oral traditions. They sought to live lives of purity, separating themselves from cultural and religious compromise under Hellenistic and Roman influences. Historically, this separation was both a physical and ideological stance, as they aimed to preserve Jewish law and identity amidst foreign domination.

In the New Testament the term often carries a negative connotation due to Jesus’ frequent confrontations with them. In passages like Matthew 23:13-15, Jesus critiques their hypocrisy, legalism, and self-righteousness, showing how their separation became a barrier to God’s heart of mercy and love. Linguistically, the Greek term Pharisaios, derived from the Hebrew, entered early Christian vocabulary as a symbol of religious pride—those who elevate rules over relationship with God.

For us today, understanding “Pharisee” invites introspection. Psychologically, it speaks to our human inclination to define ourselves by what we’re against rather than what we’re for, to build walls of self-justification instead of bridges of grace. As Christians, we’re called to be set apart for God (1 Peter 2:9), but not in a way that breeds superiority or judgment. The meaning of “Pharisee” warns us against a faith that’s all show and no substance, urging us to embody the humility and love of Christ.

So, let’s reflect: Are we truly separated unto God, or are we separating ourselves from others through pride? May this word’s meaning inspire us to live authentically, rooted in grace, shining as lights in a world that needs Jesus’ love. Let’s walk in His footsteps, not in the shadow of legalism in the freedom of His gospel.