Definition

Noun: 1. The supreme judicial and ecclesiastical council of ancient Jerusalem: The Sanhedrin was the highest court and legislative body in Judea during the Second Temple period and for some time afterward. It was composed of priests, elders, and scribes, and had authority over religious, civil, and criminal matters under Roman rule.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • According to the New Testament, Jesus was brought before the Sanhedrin for questioning.
  • The Sanhedrin was responsible for interpreting religious law and overseeing temple practices.
  • After the destruction of the Second Temple, the Sanhedrin lost much of its political power.

Advanced Usage

• "The Great Sanhedrin": Often used to specify the main assembly of 71 sages in Jerusalem, distinguishing it from smaller local courts.
  • The final authority on complex legal questions rested with the Great Sanhedrin.

Variants and Related Words

• Sanhedrist (noun): A member of the Sanhedrin.
  • The Sanhedrist argued for a strict interpretation of the law.

Synonyms

• Council: A formal assembly convened for discussion or legislation.
• Tribunal: A court of justice or a seat of judgment.
• Assembly: A group of people gathered for a specific purpose, often formal.

Notes on Meaning

• The term specifically refers to the historical institution in ancient Judea. It is not used for modern judicial or religious bodies.
• The spelling "Sanhedrin" is standard, though historical texts may use variant spellings like "Sanhedrim."

Noun

1. the supreme judicial and ecclesiastical council of ancient Jerusalem