Who the Pharisees Were (Biblical + Historical Facts)

Identity & Role

The Pharisees were a major Jewish religious movement during the Second Temple period, known for strict observance of the Law, belief in the resurrection, angels, and spirits, and adherence to the “traditions of the elders” (oral law).

Name Meaning

The name “Pharisee” likely comes from a Hebrew/Aramaic root meaning “separated ones.”

Historical Background

• Emerged during the Hasmonean period (2nd century BC).
• Estimated ~6,000 members before the fall of the Temple.
• Influential among the common people and in synagogues.
• Their teachings later formed the basis of Rabbinic Judaism after 70 AD.

Core Beliefs

• Resurrection of the dead.
• Existence of angels and spirits.
• Authority of the Oral Law alongside the Written Torah.

In the New Testament

They appear frequently in the Gospels and Acts, sometimes opposing Jesus, sometimes warning Him, inviting Him to meals, or defending early Christians.

Pharisees Mentioned in the Bible (Individuals)

Below is a list of every identifiable Pharisee explicitly named or described as a Pharisee in the New Testament.

1. Paul (Saul of Tarsus)

• Explicitly states he was a Pharisee (Philippians 3:5; Acts 23:6).

2. Nicodemus

• A Pharisee who visited Jesus at night (John 3:1).

3. Gamaliel

• A Pharisee and respected teacher of the law who defended the apostles (Acts 5:34).

4. The Pharisee in the Parable

• The Pharisee in the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18:9–14).

5. Pharisees who warned Jesus about Herod

• A group of Pharisees who warned Jesus His life was in danger (Luke 13:31).

6. Pharisees who invited Jesus to meals

• Pharisees who hosted Jesus (Luke 7:36–50; 14:1).

7. Pharisees involved in legal debates

• Groups of Pharisees who confronted or questioned Jesus (numerous passages).

8. Pharisees in the Sanhedrin

• Pharisees who sided with Paul in Acts 23:6–9.