Who are the Pharisees today?

The Pharisees were a prominent religious group in first-century Judaism, frequently mentioned in the New Testament. They are often remembered for their strict adherence to the law, their influence in Jewish society, and their frequent opposition to Jesus. Many readers of the Bible, reflecting on the stories of the Pharisees, wonder: Who are the Pharisees today? Are there modern equivalents, or is their legacy simply a warning for all believers?

The Pharisees in the Bible

The Pharisees emerged during the intertestamental period, developing as a group of lay leaders and teachers who focused on interpreting and applying the Jewish law (Torah) to everyday life. They were respected in society for their piety and knowledge, and they sought to protect Jewish identity through strict observance of religious traditions.

In the Gospels, the Pharisees frequently appear in opposition to Jesus. They challenge Him on issues of law, ritual purity, and Sabbath observance. Jesus, in turn, criticizes them for their hypocrisy, legalism, and tendency to focus on outward appearances rather than inward transformation. In Matthew 23, Jesus delivers a series of “woes” to the Pharisees, rebuking them for neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness while meticulously keeping minor regulations.

The Spirit of Pharisaism

While the Pharisees as a group no longer exist in the exact form described in the New Testament, the attitudes and behaviors Jesus challenged are still relevant. The “spirit of Pharisaism” is not confined to a particular religious group or denomination; it is a human tendency that can manifest in any context where rules and traditions become more important than the heart behind them.

The modern equivalent of a Pharisee is not necessarily a member of a particular religious movement, but rather anyone who prioritizes external conformity over genuine love for God and others. It is seen in those who judge others harshly, who are more concerned with appearances and traditions than with compassion, humility, and justice. Jesus’ warnings to the Pharisees were not simply historical critiques—they were, and remain, a caution to all people of faith.

Modern Expressions of Pharisaism

Today, “Pharisee” is often used metaphorically to describe individuals or groups who are legalistic, self-righteous, or hypocritical in their faith. This can happen in any religious tradition or community. For example, Christians can fall into the trap of measuring spirituality by external markers—church attendance, dress codes, or knowledge of doctrine—rather than by love, forgiveness, and service to others.

The danger is not limited to religious settings. In broader culture, “pharisaical” attitudes appear wherever people become self-righteous, judge others harshly, or enforce rules without empathy. Social media, for example, can amplify a spirit of judgment and condemnation, where people are quick to point out the faults of others while ignoring their own shortcomings.

Avoiding a Pharisaical Spirit

The antidote to modern Pharisaism is rooted in the teachings and example of Jesus. He called His followers to humility, mercy, and authenticity. In the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector (Luke 18:9-14), Jesus contrasts the proud, self-assured prayer of the Pharisee with the humble plea for mercy from the tax collector, declaring that it is the latter who goes home justified before God.

Believers are urged to examine their own hearts for traces of pride, hypocrisy, or judgment. Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 13 remind us that without love, even the most impressive religious deeds are empty. James 1:27 describes pure religion as caring for the vulnerable and keeping oneself unstained by the world—not as rigid rule-keeping.

Learning from the Pharisees’ Mistakes

The Pharisees’ story endures because it speaks to a universal human struggle: the temptation to substitute external religion for internal transformation. While it is easy to recognize Pharisaical attitudes in others, the real challenge is to identify and root them out in ourselves. This means pursuing a faith that is authentic, compassionate, and humble—a faith that seeks justice, loves mercy, and walks humbly with God (Micah 6:8).