For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both.
For {G1063}{G3303} the Sadducees {G4523} say {G3004} that there is {G1511} no {G3361} resurrection {G386}, neither {G3366} angel {G32}, nor {G3383} spirit {G4151}: but {G1161} the Pharisees {G5330} confess {G3670} both {G297}.
For the Tz’dukim deny the resurrection and the existence of angels and spirits; whereas the P’rushim acknowledge both.
For the Sadducees say that there is neither a resurrection, nor angels, nor spirits, but the Pharisees acknowledge them all.
For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit; but the Pharisees confess both.
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Luke 20:27
¶ Then came to [him] certain of the Sadducees, which deny that there is any resurrection; and they asked him, -
Matthew 22:23
¶ The same day came to him the Sadducees, which say that there is no resurrection, and asked him, -
Mark 12:18
¶ Then come unto him the Sadducees, which say there is no resurrection; and they asked him, saying, -
Acts 4:1
¶ And as they spake unto the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them,
Acts 23:8 provides a concise summary of the fundamental theological differences between the two dominant Jewish sects in the first century: the Sadducees and the Pharisees. This verse comes during Paul's trial before the Sanhedrin, where he masterfully exploits this division to his advantage.
Historical and Cultural Context
The Sanhedrin, the supreme Jewish council, was composed of members from both the Sadducees and the Pharisees. These two groups represented distinct theological and social factions within Judaism:
Paul, being a former Pharisee, understood this deep schism and used it to create dissension within the council, as detailed in Acts 23:6.
Key Themes and Messages
Linguistic Insights
The Greek word for "resurrection" is anastasis (ἀνάστασις), meaning "a standing up again" or "a rising up." Its denial by the Sadducees underscores their materialistic worldview, contrasting sharply with the spiritual hope presented by the Pharisees and, supremely, by the Christian message.
Practical Application
This verse reminds us that core theological doctrines matter. Belief in the resurrection, the spiritual realm, and the existence of spiritual beings are fundamental to a robust understanding of biblical truth. While differences in interpretation exist, distinguishing between essential and non-essential doctrines remains crucial for believers today. It also illustrates how deeply held convictions can lead to significant division, even among those who share a common religious heritage.