Pharisees means in the bible: An organization that is a religious group among Jews. Separatists are denoted by the name. Their strict compliance with the law was a hallmark of their group. They also took great pride in avoiding contact with gentiles. They believed in immortality, resurrection of the body, and angels and spirits. The authority of oral traditions was held to be equal with that of the written law. Their teaching had the tendency to minimize religion and encourage spiritual pride and self-sufficiency. Their actions were an obstacle for the Jewish people to receive Christ and hear the gospel. See Matt for the Lord’s judgement on their actions and their conduct. Mark 7, Luke 11, 37-54.
(in Bible Dictionary)
