Question

What was the difference between the two sects of the Jewish community?

• A. The Pharisees were contemporary in their beliefs whereas the Sadducees were rooted in traditional beliefs.
• B. The Sadducees were contemporary in their beliefs whereas the Pharisees were rooted in traditional beliefs.
• C. The Pharisees were wealthy whereas the Sadducees were not.
• D. The Sadducees practised and taught Israeli traditions whereas the Pharisees favoured the political and religious beliefs of the Romans.

Answer 1

The correct option is B The Sadducees were contemporary in their beliefs whereas the Pharisees were rooted in traditional beliefs.

The Jewish community was divided into two sects- the Pharisees and the Sadducee. The Pharisees were the 'people's party'. They practised and taught Israeli traditions. Their attitude towards Jewish laws were very straightforward and strict. They were very rooted in their traditional beliefs. The Sadducees were contemporary about their belief system. The attitude probably emerged from the fact that they were wealthy. Plus, they were conservative leaders. But their conservative nature favoured the political and religious beliefs of the Romans.