Sanhedrin
The term "Sanhedrin" refers to the assembly or council of Jewish leaders in ancient Israel, primarily during the Second Temple period. It is derived from the Greek word "synedrion," meaning "sitting together," which underscores its function as a governing body. The Sanhedrin was composed of the highest religious and legal authorities, including the chief priests, scribes, and elders, and served as the supreme court of the Jewish people. Its primary roles included adjudicating legal disputes, interpreting law, and overseeing religious matters.In the New Testament, the Sanhedrin plays a significant role, particularly in the trial of Jesus. For instance, in Matthew 26:59-66, the Sanhedrin is depicted as conspiring to find false testimony against Jesus to put him to death. This council also appears in the Acts of the Apostles, where early Christians, including the apostles Peter and John, are brought before them to defend their teachings (Acts 4:5-7). The Sanhedrin reflects the intersection of religious authority and political power in Jewish society during this period, highlighting its importance in the historical and theological context of the New Testament.