# pharisees

/ˈfɑɹɪˌsiz/ (US) · /fˈæɹɪsˌiːz/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pharisees
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

a group of Jewish religious leaders in ancient times who were known for following many rules and traditions. They were often criticized by Jesus for being too strict and focused on appearances.

For teachers: a group of Jewish religious leaders and scholars in the first century CE, distinguished by their strict adherence to the oral law and traditional customs. Often portrayed in the New Testament as hypocritical or overly concerned with external observance.

## Examples

- The Pharisees were known for their strict rules.
- In the Gospels, Jesus often challenged the Pharisees for their focus on ritual purity over genuine compassion.
- Scholars often debate whether the Pharisees were a single, unified group or a collection of diverse sects within the broader Jewish community of the time.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.