Rabbi vs. Pharisee — What's the Difference?

A rabbi is a spiritual leader or religious teacher in Judaism. One becomes a rabbi by being ordained by another rabbi, following a course of study of Jewish texts such as the Talmud.

Pharisee A member of an ancient Jewish sect that emphasized strict interpretation and observance of the Mosaic law in both its oral and written form.

Abbr. R. A person trained in Jewish law, ritual, and tradition and ordained for leadership of a Jewish congregation, especially one serving as chief religious official of a synagogue.

A hypocritically self-righteous person.

A scholar qualified to interpret Jewish law.

One of a sect or party among the Jews, noted for a strict and formal observance of rites and ceremonies and of the traditions of the elders, and whose pretensions to superior sanctity led them to separate themselves from the other Jews.

A Jewish scholar or teacher of halacha (Jewish law), capable of making halachic decisions.

A self-righteous or sanctimonious person

A Jew who is or is qualified to be the leader of a Jewish congregation.

A member of an ancient Jewish sect noted for strict obedience to Jewish traditions

A senior officer who acts as a mentor.

Master; lord; teacher; - a Jewish title of respect or honor for a teacher or doctor of the law.

Spiritual leader of a Jewish congregation; qualified to expound and apply Jewish law

A Hebrew title of respect for a Jewish scholar or teacher