Pharisee

The Pharisees were a prominent Jewish sect active during the Second Temple period and in the time of Jesus Christ. They were known for their strict observance of the Mosaic law and the oral traditions of the elders (Mrk.7.3-5). The Pharisees believed in the resurrection of the dead, the existence of angels and spirits, and the importance of following legal traditions (Act.23.6-8).

Throughout the Gospels, the Pharisees are often portrayed as legalistic, hypocritical, and self-righteous (Matthew 23). They frequently confronted Jesus about His teachings, practices, and claims to divine authority (Matthew 12:2, 14, 24; 15:1-12; 19:3; 22:15-46). Jesus rebuked them for their hypocrisy, legalism, and neglect of justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23-28; Luke 11:37-54).

Despite this general characterization, some Pharisees are presented positively, such as Nicodemus, who sought Jesus's teaching (Jhn.3.1-21), and those who warned Jesus of Herod's plot to kill Him (Luke 13:31). Some Pharisees even became followers of Christ, like the apostle Paul, who described himself as a Pharisee (Php.3.5; Act.23.6).

After Jesus's death and resurrection, the Pharisees continued to oppose the early Christian church (Act.5.34; 15:5). Paul's testimony about his former life as a Pharisee underscored the transformative power of his encounter with the risen Christ (Act.26.5; Php.3.5-11). Despite their knowledge of Scripture, many Pharisees failed to recognize Jesus as the fulfillment of God's promises and the Messiah (Jhn.9.13-41).