Exploring Discipleship and Contrasting Teachings in Ancient Israel

Discipleship in ancient Israel involved learning a rabbi's teachings and embodying their practices, known as 'yoke'. Rabbis like Hillel and Gamaliel had disciples who followed their teachings and lifestyle. The Pharisees, like Jesus, adhered to Yahweh's teachings and practiced distinctive rituals. Despite resembling Jesus externally, the Pharisees faced his harshest criticism. Jesus's famous line 'For my yoke is easy and my burden is light' needs to be read in context, revealing a deeper meaning within the story of Jesus's interaction with the Pharisees regarding Sabbath observance.