The Pharisees and teachers of the law, also known as scribes, were influential religious groups in Judea during the Second Temple period, particularly in the time of Jesus Christ. They played a significant role in the religious, social, and political life of the Jewish people.

Pharisees

The Pharisees were a prominent Jewish sect known for their strict adherence to the Law of Moses and the oral traditions that they believed were handed down alongside the written Torah. They emerged during the intertestamental period and became one of the leading religious groups by the time of Jesus. The name "Pharisee" is believed to derive from a Hebrew word meaning "separated," indicating their emphasis on purity and separation from what they considered to be unclean or impure practices.

The Pharisees were known for their emphasis on personal piety, the observance of the Sabbath, dietary laws, and ritual purity. They believed in the resurrection of the dead, the existence of angels and spirits, and the coming of the Messiah. Their teachings and interpretations of the law were influential in shaping Jewish thought and practice.

In the New Testament, the Pharisees are often depicted as opponents of Jesus. They frequently challenged Him on matters of the law and tradition. Jesus criticized them for their hypocrisy and legalism, emphasizing the importance of inner righteousness over outward observance. In Matthew 23:27-28 , Jesus says, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men’s bones and every kind of impurity. In the same way, on the outside you appear to be righteous, but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness."

Despite their opposition to Jesus, not all Pharisees were hostile towards Him. Nicodemus, a Pharisee, sought Jesus out to learn from Him (John 3:1-21), and later defended Him before the Sanhedrin (John 7:50-51). After the resurrection, some Pharisees became followers of Christ, as seen in Acts 15:5.

Teachers of the Law (Scribes)

The teachers of the law, or scribes, were experts in the Mosaic Law and played a crucial role in Jewish society as interpreters and teachers of the Scriptures. They were responsible for copying and preserving the sacred texts, as well as providing legal judgments and guidance based on the law.

Scribes were often associated with the Pharisees, sharing similar beliefs and practices. They were respected for their knowledge and authority in religious matters. However, like the Pharisees, they were also criticized by Jesus for their focus on external observance rather than the heart of the law. In Mark 12:38-40 , Jesus warns, "Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes and receive greetings in the marketplaces, and the chief seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. They defraud widows of their houses, and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will receive greater condemnation."

The scribes' role extended beyond religious instruction; they were also involved in civil and legal matters, often serving as judges or advisors in the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council. Their influence was significant in shaping the religious and legal landscape of Jewish life.

Interactions with Jesus

The interactions between Jesus and the Pharisees and teachers of the law are a central theme in the Gospels. These encounters highlight the tension between Jesus' message of grace and the legalistic approach of the religious leaders. Jesus' teachings often challenged their interpretations and practices, calling for a return to the true spirit of the law, which is love for God and neighbor.

In Matthew 5:20 , Jesus states, "For I tell you that unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." This statement underscores the need for a deeper, heart-centered righteousness that goes beyond mere legal compliance.

The Pharisees and teachers of the law played a pivotal role in the events leading to Jesus' crucifixion, as they saw Him as a threat to their authority and influence. Despite their opposition, Jesus' interactions with them provide valuable lessons on the nature of true righteousness and the dangers of legalism.