The Sanhedrin was the supreme religious and judicial council of the Jewish people during the Second Temple period, playing a significant role in the governance and spiritual life of Israel. The term "Sanhedrin" is derived from the Greek word "synedrion," meaning "assembly" or "council." This body is frequently referenced in the New Testament, particularly in the context of the trials of Jesus and the apostles.

Composition and Structure

The Sanhedrin was composed of seventy-one members, including the high priest, who served as its president. The council was made up of chief priests, elders, and scribes, representing the three main groups within Jewish society. The chief priests were primarily Sadducees, while the scribes and elders were often Pharisees. This diverse composition allowed for a range of theological and legal perspectives within the council.

Functions and Authority

The Sanhedrin held significant authority over religious, civil, and criminal matters. It was responsible for interpreting Jewish law, adjudicating disputes, and overseeing the administration of justice. The council also had the authority to issue decrees and regulations that affected the daily lives of the Jewish people. In religious matters, the Sanhedrin was the final arbiter, and its decisions were binding on all Jews.

Biblical References

The New Testament provides several accounts of the Sanhedrin's activities, particularly in relation to Jesus and His followers. In the Gospels, the Sanhedrin is depicted as the body that plotted against Jesus and ultimately condemned Him to death. In the Gospel of Matthew, it is recorded, "The chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were seeking false testimony against Jesus in order to put Him to death" (Matthew 26:59).

The Book of Acts also describes the Sanhedrin's role in the early persecution of the apostles. After Peter and John healed a man at the temple gate, they were brought before the Sanhedrin, which questioned them about their authority to perform such miracles. Peter boldly declared, "Rulers and elders of the people! If we are being examined today about a kind service to a man who was lame, to determine how he was healed, then let this be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed" (Acts 4:8-10).

Historical Context

The Sanhedrin's authority was recognized by the Roman authorities, who allowed it to govern internal Jewish affairs. However, the council's power was limited under Roman rule, particularly in matters of capital punishment, which required Roman approval. This limitation is evident in the trial of Jesus, where the Sanhedrin handed Him over to Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, for execution.

Dissolution and Legacy

The Sanhedrin continued to function until the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 AD, after which its influence waned. Attempts to re-establish the Sanhedrin in subsequent centuries were largely unsuccessful. Despite its dissolution, the Sanhedrin's legacy endures in Jewish tradition and history as a symbol of religious authority and legal scholarship. Its proceedings and decisions are recorded in various Jewish texts, including the Mishnah and Talmud, which continue to be studied by scholars and religious leaders today.