Pharisee

The Pharisees were one of four political factions within the Jewish culture of Jesus's day.  The Pharisees were known for their memorization of the Law of Moses and for strict adherence to it.  (Essentially they were the Republicans of their day).  The problem with the Pharisees is that they often made up additional rules or laws to go with those given to the Israelites by Jehovah and then when people did not adhere to their man-made laws, they condemned them.  Pharisees loved the accolades of the public and reveled in their power.  Ultimately they were a large part of those who crucified Jesus as well as those who persecuted the church after it was founded in AD 33.
Category:Terms