Religious Groups in Jesus Day

 

The Sadducees

 

The Sadducees were a wealthy, aristocratic Jewish sect active in Judea during the Second Temple period (roughly 2nd century BC to 70 AD) who held significant political and religious power, particularly controlling the high priesthood and the Sanhedrin. 

The Sadducees were the elite upper class, often associated with the priesthood and wealthy landowners, and were generally cooperative with Roman rule to maintain their privileged status. They strictly adhered only to the Written Torah (the five books of Moses), rejecting the Oral Law and traditions upheld by the Pharisees. 

The Sadducees famously denied the resurrection of the dead, the existence of an afterlife, and the existence of angels and demons, believing the soul perishes with the body. They emphasized human free will and rejected the concept of fate or predestination, prioritizing political stability and the maintenance of the Temple in Jerusalem. 

The sect became extinct after the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 AD, as their religious and political authority was entirely tied to the Temple's existence. Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: www.bible-history.com