Religious Groups in Palestine

Sadducees The main group in the Sanhedrin. A small powerful group of men. There was the High Priest, Temple priests and wealthy men in this group. They accepted Roman Rule.

Pharisees A large group of powerful men. They were mainly teachers who worked in local synagogues. They rejected Roman rule.

Zealots Group of people who rejected Roman rule. They hated the Sadducees for co-operating with the Romans. They wanted to overthrow Roman rule by violent rebellion.

Essenes A community of Monks who devoted their lives to prayer, fasting and study. They rejected Roman Rule. Separated themselves from society. Believed to be the authors of the Dead Sea Scrolls.