Pharisaisim

Pharisaism (noun) describes a strict and often hypocritical adherence to religious laws and outward observances, emphasizing ritual purity and legalistic interpretations of scripture over genuine piety and compassion. It often manifests as self-righteousness, judging others based on their perceived adherence to a rigid set of rules, while potentially ignoring internal virtues like humility and empathy. It is a negative term implying superficiality in faith and a lack of genuine spiritual connection. This type of behaviour generally puts more emphasis on external appearances than internal motivations and moral principles. It is characterized by an obsessive focus on rules, ceremonies and social norms, and often involves judging others harshly. Furthermore, it can encompass a tendency to elevate one's own group or beliefs above others, fostering a sense of superiority and exclusion. Pharisees in the New Testament provide the quintessential example of such an approach. While some elements of strict adherence to rules are commendable, pharisaism goes beyond this and becomes harmful when the focus becomes purely about one’s own reputation rather than God and the treatment of others.

Pharisaisim meaning with examples

• The politician's unwavering public pronouncements of morality, while engaging in questionable private behavior, exemplified a blatant case of pharisaism. His actions proved that his adherence to rules was not a display of true ethics. His commitment to the religious law was superficial at best, as he lacked the humility to truly understand its significance.
• The community's strict adherence to dress codes and rigid social expectations, accompanied by a judgmental attitude towards outsiders, revealed a subtle form of pharisaism. They were very quick to judge those who didn't meet these strict norms, which ultimately overshadowed the true meaning of their faith.
• After realizing his own imperfections, the priest vowed to abandon his pharisaism and embrace a more compassionate and understanding approach to his parishioners. He realized that his adherence to tradition was not a substitute for true compassion and empathy, and that judging others should be the last option.
• The debate concerning the new law was rife with pharisaism, as each side attempted to paint the other as morally deficient based on their stance. The conversation soon became less about improving society and more about condemning the ideas and actions of other members in the opposition.