pharisaism

pharisaism

A person's pharisaism is revealed when they preach honesty but cheat in private.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • Hypocritical observance of religious or moral principles: "pharisaism" refers to a self-righteous, sanctimonious attitude, especially one that emphasizes strict adherence to religious rituals or rules while lacking genuine piety or moral integrity.
    • Formalism in religion: It denotes a focus on outward forms and ceremonies at the expense of inner spiritual sincerity.
Usage Examples
  • (Hypocritical, self-righteous behavior.)
  • (Formalistic, insincere religious practice.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to be guilty of pharisaism": to exhibit hypocritical self-righteousness.

    • He was accused of pharisaism for preaching charity while hoarding his wealth. (He was hypocritical in his moral teachings.)

  • "the spirit of pharisaism": the underlying attitude of hypocrisy and moral superiority.

    • The novel critiques the spirit of pharisaism that pervaded Victorian society. (The novel attacks the prevalent hypocritical moralism.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Pharisaical (adj): relating to or characteristic of the Pharisees; hypocritically self-righteous.

    • Her pharisaical comments about others’ lifestyles annoyed everyone. (Her comments were sanctimonious and judgmental.)

  • Pharisee (n): a member of an ancient Jewish sect known for strict observance of the law; often used pejoratively to mean a hypocrite.

    • Don’t be such a Pharisee — you break the same rules you criticize. (A hypocritical person.)
Synonyms
  • Hypocrisy: the practice of claiming to have moral standards or beliefs that one does not actually possess.
  • Sanctimony: exaggerated or hypocritical piety.
  • Formalism: excessive concern with outward form, especially in religion.
Related Idioms

  • A wolf in sheep’s clothing: someone who hides malicious intentions under a guise of kindness (similar to the deceptive nature of pharisaism).

    • The politician was a wolf in sheep’s clothing, preaching family values while cheating on his taxes. (He was hypocritical like a pharisee.)

  • To wear a mask of piety: to pretend to be devout or moral while acting otherwise.

    • The businessman wore a mask of piety, but his dealings were ruthless. (He displayed pharisaism.)