Bible Dictionary

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Pharisees

People & Groups • New Testament
The Pharisees were a prominent Jewish religious party devoted to careful observance of the Law and inherited traditions. Jesus condemned their hypocrisy and self-righteousness, though their beliefs included such truths as resurrection and the existence of angels.
Biblical Usage
The Gospels frequently present the Pharisees in conflict with Jesus, who rebuked their hypocrisy and external religion. They appear in the New Testament as influential among the people, opponents of Christ, and participants in disputes concerning the Law, resurrection, angels, and tradition. Paul also described himself as a Pharisee.
Scripture References
John 7:48 Matthew 9:14 Matthew 23:15 Luke 11:39 Luke 18:12 Acts 23:6-8 Acts 26:4 Acts 26:5 Matthew 5:20 Matthew 15:4 Matthew 15:8 Matthew 23:3 Matthew 23:14 Matthew 23:23 Matthew 23:25 John 8:7 Matthew 3:7 Matthew 9:11 Luke 7:39 Luke 18:11 Matthew 12:39 Matthew 16:1-4 Matthew 15:7 Matthew 23:5 Matthew 23:13 Mark 7:6 Luke 11:42-44 Mark 7:1-5 Mark 11:29 Mark 12:19 Mark 12:20 Luke 6:28 Luke 6:37-42 Matthew 12:1-13 Mark 3:1-6 Luke 18:10-17 Matthew 6:2 Matthew 6:6 Matthew 6:16 Matthew 23:6 Luke 14:7 John 13:7 Luke 10:29 Matthew 22:15