Bible Dictionary

Pharisees

Pharisees is the name of a Jewish religious group whose name is commonly understood to mean "separated ones."

Quick Reference

Total Entries

653

Entry Position

449 of 653

Letter

P

Meaning

Pharisees is the name of a Jewish religious group whose name is commonly understood to mean "separated ones."

Key Scriptures

  • Matthew 3:7
  • Matthew 5:20
  • Matthew 9:11
  • Matthew 12:1-14
  • Matthew 15:1-9
  • Matthew 23:1-36
  • Luke 7:36-50
  • Luke 18:9-14
  • John 3:1-2
  • John 7:45-52
  • Acts 15:5
  • Acts 23:6-9

Original Language

Greek

Φαρισαῖος

Pharisaios

Pharisee; member of a Jewish religious group

Meaning

Pharisees is the name of a Jewish religious group. The name is commonly understood to mean “separated ones.”

Biblical Usage

The Pharisees were prominent in Jewish religious life during the time of Jesus. They questioned Jesus concerning His teachings and the conduct of His disciples.

Jesus reproved them for hypocrisy, pride, and placing human traditions above the commandments of God. However, the Gospel accounts also mention individual Pharisees who approached Jesus and some who believed on Him.

In the parable of the Pharisee and the publican, Jesus contrasted the self-righteous prayer of a Pharisee with the humble plea for mercy made by a publican.

Key References

  • Matthew 5:20
  • Matthew 15:1-9
  • Matthew 23:1-36
  • Luke 18:9-14
  • John 3:1-2
  • Acts 15:5
  • Sadducees
  • Scribes
  • Publican
  • Law
  • Hypocrisy
  • Traditions

Study More

Continue your Bible study by exploring related Scriptures, dictionary terms, and connected topics.

Scriptures

  • Matthew 3:7
  • Matthew 5:20
  • Matthew 9:11
  • Matthew 12:1-14
  • Matthew 15:1-9
  • Matthew 23:1-36
  • Luke 7:36-50
  • Luke 18:9-14
  • John 3:1-2
  • John 7:45-52
  • Acts 15:5
  • Acts 23:6-9

Related Terms

Sadducees Law Publican Hypocrisy

Study Topics

people religious-groups New Testament