Sadducees (Tzadokim)
Aristocratic priestly class centered around the Jerusalem Temple
The Sadducees were the aristocratic and priestly leadership of Second Temple Jerusalem who rejected oral traditions, upheld the exclusive authority of the written Torah (Pentateuch), and denied the resurrection of the dead, immortal souls, and the active role of angels.
Historical Context & Significance
Claiming lineage from Zadok, high priest under David and Solomon, the Sadducees maintained close diplomatic ties with the Roman prefects and dominated the Sanhedrin. Their political and theological influence was intimately tied to Temple sacrifices, leading to their complete extinction following the Temple's destruction in 70 AD.
Genealogical Lineage & Splits
This movement or council is an early root foundation with no preceding parent split in the dataset.
Theological & Hermeneutical Coordinates
Primary Scripture Proof-Texts
Key biblical passages central to this tradition's exegesis and historical debates.