The term "Jewish Authorities" in the context of the Bible refers to the religious and political leaders of the Jewish people during the time of Jesus and the early church. These authorities played a significant role in the religious, social, and political life of Israel. They are often depicted in the New Testament as being in opposition to Jesus and His teachings.

1. The Sanhedrin:
The Sanhedrin was the supreme council and tribunal of the Jewish people during the Second Temple period. It was composed of chief priests, elders, and scribes, and was presided over by the high priest. The Sanhedrin held significant authority in religious and civil matters. In the New Testament, the Sanhedrin is frequently mentioned in the context of the trials of Jesus and the apostles. For instance, in Mark 14:55 , "The chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were seeking testimony against Jesus to put Him to death, but they did not find any."

2. The Pharisees:
The Pharisees were a prominent religious sect known for their strict adherence to the Law and the traditions of the elders. They believed in the resurrection of the dead, angels, and spirits, distinguishing them from the Sadducees. The Pharisees often clashed with Jesus over interpretations of the Law and issues of ritual purity. In Matthew 23:27 , Jesus criticizes them, saying, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men’s bones and every kind of impurity."

3. The Sadducees:
The Sadducees were another influential Jewish sect, primarily composed of the priestly and aristocratic classes. They held significant power in the Temple and were known for their denial of the resurrection, angels, and spirits. The Sadducees are often depicted in the New Testament as being in conflict with Jesus and the apostles, particularly on theological issues. In Acts 23:8 , it is noted, "The Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, nor angels, nor spirits, but the Pharisees acknowledge them all."

4. The Scribes:
Scribes were experts in the Law and were responsible for copying and interpreting the Scriptures. They held a respected position in Jewish society and often aligned with the Pharisees. Jesus frequently rebuked the scribes for their hypocrisy and legalism. In Mark 12:38-40 , Jesus warns, "Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes and receive greetings in the marketplaces, and have the chief seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. They defraud widows of their houses, and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will receive greater condemnation."

5. The Chief Priests:
The chief priests were members of the priestly class who held significant authority in the Temple and were often involved in the Sanhedrin. They played a crucial role in the events leading to the crucifixion of Jesus. In John 11:47-48 , the chief priests and Pharisees convene a council, saying, "What are we to do? This man is performing many signs. If we let Him go on like this, everyone will believe in Him, and then the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation."

6. The Elders:
The elders were leaders within the Jewish community, often associated with the Sanhedrin. They were respected for their wisdom and experience. In the New Testament, they are frequently mentioned alongside the chief priests and scribes as part of the opposition to Jesus. In Matthew 26:3-4 , it is recorded, "At that time the chief priests and elders of the people assembled in the courtyard of the high priest, whose name was Caiaphas, and they conspired to arrest Jesus covertly and kill Him."

The Jewish authorities, as depicted in the New Testament, were instrumental in the events leading to the crucifixion of Jesus and the persecution of the early church. Their interactions with Jesus and His followers highlight the tension between the established religious order and the new covenant brought by Christ.