### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Φαρισαῖος (Pharisaîos)**, represented by `{{G5330}}`, identifies a member of a prominent Jewish sect. The term's origin suggests a "separatist," describing an exclusively religious individual. It appears **100 times** across **95 unique verses** in the Bible, primarily in the Gospels and Acts, highlighting its significant role in the New Testament narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, the **Pharisees** are frequently depicted as a religious authority, often in conflict with Jesus. They are shown questioning his actions, such as healing on the Sabbath [[Luke 6:7]] and eating with **publicans** `{{G5057}}` and **sinners** `{{G268}}` [[Matthew 9:11]]. They challenge Jesus by asking for a sign from heaven [[Matthew 16:1]] and testing him with questions about the law [[Matthew 19:3]]. Jesus warns his disciples about the "leaven of the **Pharisees**," which he identifies as **hypocrisy** `{{G5272}}` [[Luke 12:1]]. Despite this general depiction of opposition, some **Pharisees** are presented as individuals of note, such as **Nicodemus** `{{G3530}}` [[John 3:1]] and **Gamaliel** `{{G1059}}` [[Acts 5:34]], and the Apostle Paul identifies himself as a **Pharisee** by background [[Philippians 3:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context to the identity and actions of the **Pharisees**:
* `{{G1122}}` **grammateús** (scribe): Often mentioned alongside **Pharisees**, this group of professional writers and secretaries formed a key part of the religious establishment that challenged Jesus ([[Matthew 5:20]], [[Matthew 23:13]]).
* `{{G4523}}` **Saddoukaîos** (Sadducee): Another Jewish sect, the Sadducees sometimes joined the **Pharisees** in confronting Jesus [[Matthew 16:1]] but held differing beliefs, notably denying the resurrection [[Luke 20:27]].
* `{{G5273}}` **hypokritḗs** (hypocrite): Jesus frequently uses this term, meaning an actor or dissembler, to condemn the **Pharisees** for appearing righteous outwardly while being inwardly corrupt ([[Matthew 23:23]], [[Matthew 23:27]]).
* `{{G3862}}` **parádosis** (tradition): The **Pharisees** are characterized by their adherence to the "tradition of the **elders**," which Jesus contrasts with the commandments of God ([[Mark 7:5]], [[Mark 7:13]]).
### Theological Significance
The portrayal of the **Pharisees** carries significant theological weight, often serving as a counterpoint to the teachings of Jesus.
* **External vs. Internal Righteousness:** A central theme is their focus on outward observances. Jesus criticizes them for meticulously tithing herbs while neglecting "judgment, mercy, and faith" [[Matthew 23:23]]. He compares them to **whited** `{{G2867}}` sepulchres, clean on the outside but full of uncleanness within [[Matthew 23:27]].
* **Champions of the Law and Tradition:** The **Pharisees** saw themselves as guardians of the law. Paul describes his life as a **Pharisee** as belonging to the "most straitest **sect** `{{G139}}` of our **religion** `{{G2356}}`" [[Acts 26:5]]. Their conflict with Jesus often stemmed from his perceived violations of the law, particularly the Sabbath [[Matthew 12:2]].
* **Opposition to the Divine:** They are frequently shown as antagonists who plot against Jesus [[Matthew 12:14]] and accuse him of casting out **devils** `{{G1140}}` by the power of the prince of **devils** [[Matthew 9:34]]. Many **chief rulers** `{{G758}}` believed in Jesus but would not confess it for fear of the **Pharisees** [[John 12:42]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5330}}` is more than just a label for a religious party; it represents a complex group central to the Gospel narratives. While they are often depicted as legalistic opponents of Christ, condemned for their **hypocrisy** `{{G5272}}` and misplaced priorities, the term also applies to respected individuals like **Gamaliel** `{{G1059}}` and a converted apostle like Paul. The **Pharisees** serve as a powerful biblical illustration of the conflict between man-made religious **tradition** `{{G3862}}` and the heart of God's law.
TRV