The Pharisees and the Sadducees

Overview

Name Pharisee most probably, what is meant by the oral tradition and three beliefs the Pharisees held that the Sadducees denied.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1. 1

   What does the name Pharisee most probably mean?

   Model answer

   The name Pharisee is usually derived from a Hebrew word meaning 'separated ones', describing a movement set apart for exact observance of the Law.

2. 2

   Which scriptures did the Pharisees accept as authoritative?

   Model answer

   The Pharisees accepted the whole Hebrew Bible, Law, Prophets and Writings alike, together with the oral tradition of interpretation handed down beside it.

3. 3

   Explain what is meant by the oral tradition.

   Model answer

   The oral tradition was the accumulated body of interpretation applying the written Law to daily life, known as the tradition of the elders, and the Pharisees held it to carry binding authority.

4. 4

   State three beliefs the Pharisees held that the Sadducees denied.

   Model answer

   The Pharisees affirmed the resurrection of the dead, the existence of angels and spirits, and the authority of the oral tradition, and the Sadducees rejected all three.

5. 5

   According to Josephus, what did the Pharisees teach about providence and human freedom?

   Model answer

   Josephus reports that the Pharisees held all things to be governed by divine providence while human beings remain genuinely responsible for their own choices.

6. 6

   Name four practices for which the Pharisees were known.

   Model answer

   The Pharisees were known for scrupulous tithing, ritual washing and purity, regular fasting, and strict observance of the Sabbath.

Other ways to work this

The same content, four other ways.

What is inside Levo

Six ways to work the same material.