The Legacy of the Pharisees After the Crucifixion

The Legacy of the Pharisees After the Crucifixion

Introduction

When discussing the legacy of the Pharisees, one might wonder what became of them following the crucifixion of Jesus. Despite the intense scrutiny and persecution they faced, several of them lived long enough to see significant historical events unfold. This article explores the fate of the Pharisees, their religious inheritance, and the misconceptions surrounding Jesus' crucifixion.

The Fate of the Pharisees

Some Pharisees were young enough to outlive the crucifixion, and a few might have even witnessed the destruction of the Temple, an event predicted by Jesus. It is estimated that some of these survivors would have been around for another 40 years, giving them a profound understanding of the changes that were to come. Their significance lies not just in their survival but in their continuous commitment to Rabbinical Torah Orthodoxy, a tradition that persists to this day.

The Continuity of Rabbinical Torah Orthodoxy

The name Pharisee signifies Rabbinical Torah Orthodoxy, a practice that began at Mount Sinai and has remained unbroken. If contemporary Orthodox Rabbis were to live during the time of Jesus, they would be recognized as Pharisees. This lineage of teaching rabbis has persisted through generations, ensuring the continuity of religious traditions and practices.

The Pharisees and Jesus: A Complex Relationship

During the time of Jesus, He was in conflict with the Pharisees, particularly those who were considered hypocritical. However, it is important to recognize that corruption can exist within any leadership structure. For Jesus, the flaw lay not in the entire system of Pharisees, but in the actions of certain individuals who were guided by a misinterpretation of the Torah.

The Sadducees: A Divisive Force

The Sadducees, another influential Jewish group, were known for their deviation from traditional Jewish teachings. They denied essential truths of Judaism, thereby deviating from the commands of the Torah. In many ways, the Sadducees can be likened to Messianic Jews who do not adhere strictly to the commandments of the Torah. In contrast, most Jews today can trace their roots back to the Pharisees, despite the fact that the Pharisees did not refer to themselves by that name.

v_Length and the Destruction of the Temple

The destruction of the Temple marked a significant transitional period for the Jewish community. The Sadducees, whose beliefs were closely tied to the Temple, became extinct largely due to its destruction. The Pharisees, however, adapted and continued their practices, making them a central figure in Jewish life. Today, their legacy is preserved through the teachings and customs of contemporary Orthodox Rabbis.

Myth and Reality: The Crucifixion of Jesus

There are misconceptions and debates surrounding the crucifixion of Jesus. Some argue that the New Testament, written primarily by Gentiles, incorporated Greek mythology into the narrative. The crucifixion, therefore, is seen as a fabrication rather than a historical fact. However, based on historical records and the Talmud, it is evident that Jesus was executed via stoning and subsequently hanged by the order of the Sanhedrin, as prescribed by Deuteronomy 21:22–23.

Sanhedrin and the Order of Execution

The Sanhedrin, the Supreme Court of the Jewish people, was responsible for ensuring that the laws of the Covenant were upheld. Their decision to execute Jesus through stoning was a matter of loyalty to the Torah and the covenant laws. The notion that he rose from the dead is attributed to the influence of Greek preachers who were unfamiliar with the true nature of Jewish law and traditions.

The Pharisees: Good Jews and Guardians of the Covenant

Pharisees were known for their dedication to the Torah and the covenant laws. They were the guardians of Jewish tradition and culture. While it is uncertain if they were involved in the specific event surrounding Jesus, their role as upholders of the law is undeniable. Their belief in the covenant was a driving force in their adherence to Jewish practices and customs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Pharisees played a critical role in the religious and cultural landscape of their time, continues to influence Jewish practice today, and their legacy is rooted in the strict adherence to the covenant laws. The true story of Jesus' death, as recorded by the Sanhedrin, is often overshadowed by the interpretations and narratives that have been passed down through generations.