The Pharisees and the Experts in the Law, also known as scribes or lawyers, were influential religious groups in Judea during the Second Temple period, particularly in the time of Jesus Christ. They played a significant role in the religious, social, and political life of the Jewish people.

Pharisees

The Pharisees were a prominent Jewish sect known for their strict adherence to the Law of Moses and the oral traditions that they believed were handed down alongside the written Torah. They emerged during the intertestamental period and became one of the leading religious groups by the time of Jesus.

1. Beliefs and Practices: The Pharisees believed in the resurrection of the dead, the existence of angels and spirits, and the coming of the Messiah. They emphasized purity laws, tithing, and the observance of the Sabbath. Their commitment to the Law extended to the development of an extensive oral tradition, which they considered authoritative.

2. Interactions with Jesus: The Gospels frequently depict the Pharisees in opposition to Jesus. They often challenged Him on matters of the Law and tradition. For example, in Matthew 23:23 , Jesus criticizes them, saying, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You pay tithes of mint, dill, and cumin, but you have disregarded the weightier matters of the Law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness." Despite their opposition, some Pharisees, like Nicodemus (John 3:1-21), showed interest in Jesus' teachings.

3. Role in Society: The Pharisees held significant influence over the common people due to their piety and knowledge of the Law. They were often seen as the protectors of Jewish identity and tradition, especially under Roman occupation.

Experts in the Law (Scribes/Lawyers)

The Experts in the Law, often referred to as scribes or lawyers, were scholars and teachers of the Jewish Law. They were responsible for interpreting, teaching, and preserving the Scriptures.

1. Functions and Responsibilities: Scribes were tasked with copying the Scriptures, ensuring their accuracy, and providing legal judgments based on the Law. They were considered authorities on religious and legal matters and often served as advisors to the Pharisees and other leaders.

2. Interactions with Jesus: Like the Pharisees, the scribes frequently clashed with Jesus. They questioned His authority and sought to trap Him in His words. In Luke 11:46 , Jesus rebukes them, saying, "Woe to you as well, experts in the law! You weigh men down with heavy burdens, but you yourselves will not lift a finger to lighten their load."

3. Influence and Authority: The scribes held a respected position in Jewish society due to their expertise in the Law. They were often consulted on legal and theological issues and played a crucial role in the synagogue and community life.

Relationship Between Pharisees and Experts in the Law

The Pharisees and the Experts in the Law often worked closely together, as the Pharisees relied on the scribes for their legal expertise. Both groups shared a commitment to the Law and tradition, though they sometimes differed in their interpretations and applications.

Biblical References

The New Testament provides numerous accounts of interactions between Jesus and these groups, highlighting their influence and the tensions that arose from their differing interpretations of the Law. Key passages include Matthew 23, Mark 7:1-13, and Luke 11:37-54, where Jesus addresses their practices and teachings.

In summary, the Pharisees and Experts in the Law were central figures in the religious landscape of first-century Judea. Their dedication to the Law and tradition shaped Jewish life and thought, even as they encountered the transformative message of Jesus Christ.