Rethinking the Pharisees: Context and Misconceptions

This chapter examines the misconceptions surrounding the Pharisees in religious texts, particularly in the Gospel of Matthew. It addresses how these misunderstandings have contributed to anti-Semitic stereotypes and argues for a more nuanced understanding of their role in early Christianity. Through discussions of Jesus' interactions with the Pharisees and an analysis of key biblical passages, the chapter highlights the complexities of Jewish beliefs and identity during that time.