What did the Pharisees believe in? The Pharisees were a Jewish sect that emerged during the Second Temple period in Judea. They were known for their strict adherence to Jewish law and tradition, and their beliefs had a significant impact on the development of Rabbinic Judaism. This article will explore the core principles and values that the Pharisees held dear.
The Pharisees believed in the importance of oral tradition alongside the written Torah. They maintained that the oral law, which included interpretations and applications of the written laws, was equally as sacred as the written text itself. This belief was a cornerstone of their religious philosophy and played a crucial role in the preservation and transmission of Jewish teachings.
One of the central tenets of Pharisaic belief was the concept of the “Torah of the Mouth,” which emphasized the importance of oral teachings. The Pharisees believed that the oral law was passed down from Moses on Mount Sinai and was an integral part of the divine revelation. They held that the oral law was necessary to understand and apply the written law correctly.
Another significant belief of the Pharisees was the idea of “pikuach nefesh,” which translates to “preservation of life.” This principle held that saving a life took precedence over almost all other commandments. The Pharisees believed that one should do everything in their power to protect human life, even if it meant violating other laws.
The Pharisees also placed great emphasis on the concept of “moral purity.” They believed that individuals should strive to live a virtuous life, free from sin and immorality. This included observing dietary laws, such as kashrut, and adhering to laws of purity, such as those concerning bathing and contact with impure objects.
One of the most distinctive beliefs of the Pharisees was the concept of “the resurrection of the dead.” They believed that the dead would be resurrected on the Day of Judgment, and that each person would be judged according to their deeds in life. This belief was a source of hope and encouragement for the Pharisees, as it offered the promise of eternal life for the righteous.
In addition to these core beliefs, the Pharisees were known for their strict observance of the Sabbath and other Jewish holidays. They believed that these observances were not only a commandment from God but also a means of sanctifying time and appreciating the divine presence in the world.
The Pharisees faced criticism from other Jewish sects, such as the Sadducees, who believed only in the written law and rejected the oral tradition. However, the Pharisees’ beliefs and practices had a lasting impact on the Jewish people, ultimately leading to the development of Rabbinic Judaism, which became the predominant form of Judaism in the centuries following the destruction of the Second Temple.
In conclusion, the Pharisees believed in the importance of oral tradition, the concept of “pikuach nefesh,” moral purity, the resurrection of the dead, and the sanctification of time through observance of the Sabbath and holidays. Their beliefs played a crucial role in shaping the religious and cultural identity of the Jewish people and have continued to influence Jewish thought and practice to this day.
