SANHEDRIM Meaning and
Definition
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Sanhedrin is a noun that refers to the high court or supreme council of ancient Judaism. The term originated from the Hebrew word "Sanhedrim" (שַׁסְפְּרַת הַגְּדוֹלָה), meaning "the great assembly" or "council."
In Jewish history, the Sanhedrin was a prestigious and authoritative law court that played a crucial role in religious, social, and political matters during the time of the Second Temple period, which spanned from the 6th century BCE until its destruction in 70 CE. The Sanhedrin consisted of 71 members, including high priests, elders, and religious scholars, who were appointed based on their wisdom, knowledge of the Torah, and moral character.
This council had broad authority, acting as both a legislative and judicial body. It was responsible for interpreting Jewish laws, resolving legal disputes, and passing judgment in criminal cases, particularly those involving blasphemy or concerns against the Jewish faith. The Sanhedrin also held the power to enforce its decisions, establishing rules and regulations for Jewish communities throughout the ancient world.
The Sanhedrin's influence extended beyond religious matters, as it was also involved in political decisions, such as the appointment of the high priest and the interactions with foreign rulers during the Roman occupation. It represented the unified voice and religious authority of the Jewish people during this period.
Today, the Sanhedrin is primarily a historical term that refers to the ancient Jewish council. While there are attempts to revive it in modern Jewish communities, its authority and influence are not recognized at the same level as they were in biblical times.
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The great judicial council among the ancient Jews, consisting of 71 members, including the high priest.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SANHEDRIM
- sanhedrin
- aanhedrim
- zanhedrim
- xanhedrim
- danhedrim
- eanhedrim
- wanhedrim
- sznhedrim
- ssnhedrim
- swnhedrim
- sqnhedrim
- sabhedrim
- samhedrim
- sajhedrim
- sahhedrim
- sangedrim
- sanbedrim
- sannedrim
- sanjedrim
- sanuedrim
Etymology of SANHEDRIM
The word "Sanhedrim" or "Sanhedrin" is derived from the Greek term "synedrion", which means "council" or "assembly". This Greek term itself is a direct translation of the Hebrew term "Sanhedrin", which refers to the supreme judicial and administrative council of ancient Jewish society. The Sanhedrin played a significant role in the religious, legal, and political affairs of the Jewish people during the Second Temple period in Jerusalem. The term "Sanhedrin" is also used to describe similar councils in other Jewish communities throughout history.
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