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'''Shammai''' (50 B.C.E. – 30 C.E.) was a famous [[Jew]]ish scholar of the first century C.E., and an important figure in [[Judaism]]'s core work of early rabbinic literature, the [[Mishnah]]. He was the most eminent contemporary and opponent of [[Hillel the Elder|Hillel]], taking a strict position on the interpretation of Jewish law versus Hillel's more liberal interpretation on many matters. Both teachers were part of the movement known as the [[Pharisees]], who sought to increase [[piety]] among the Jewish people by emphasizing the application of the [[torah|Law of Moses]] in everyday life, rather than insisting mainly on the priest-centered tradition of the [[Temple of Jerusalem]].
'''Shammai''' (50 B.C.E.–30 C.E.) was a famous [[Jew]]ish scholar of the [[1st century]], and an important figure in [[Judaism]]'s core work of [[rabbinic literature]], the [[Mishnah]]. He was the most eminent contemporary and opponent of [[Hillel the Elder|Hillel]], taking a strict position on the interpretation of Jewish law versus Hillel's more liberal interpretation on many matters. Both teachers were part of the movement known as the Pharisees, who sought to increase [[piety]] among the Jewish people by emphasizing the application of the Law of Moses in everyday life, rather than insisting mainly on the tradition of the [[Temple of Jerusalem]].
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Shammai's school became known as the [[House of Shammai]] ''(Beit Shammai)'', and Hillel's was known as the [[House of Hillel]] ''(Beit Hillel)''. The debates between these two schools of Jewish thought grew particularly bitter in the period leading up to the Jewish rebellion against Roman rule (66-73 C.E.) that resulted in the destruction of the Temple and the death of countless Jews. They also form the basis for many of the discussions recorded in the [[Talmud]]. Shammai's views also indirectly shaped early [[Christianity]], in which [[Jesus]] appears to side with the school of Hillel on most matters, sometimes strongly denouncing the strict [[legalism]] that characterized the followers of Shammai.
Shammai's school of thought became known as the [[House of Shammai]] (Beit Shammai), and Hillel's was known as the [[House of Hillel]] (''Beit Hillel''). The debates between these two schools of Jewish thought grew particular heated in the period leading up to the Jewish rebllion against Roman rule that resulting in the destruction of the Temple of Jerusalem and the expulsion of the Jews from Judea. They also form the basis for many of the latter discussions recorded in the [[Talmud]]. They also impact on the history of early Christianity, in which Jesus appears to side with the school of Hillel on most matters, sometimes bitterly denouncing the strict legalism of what appear to be the followers of Shammai.
 
  
 
==Background and character==
 
==Background and character==
Shammai was likely a [[Palestinian Jew]]. His family was relatively well off, and he was an engineer by trade. Of an irascible temperament, he seemed to lack some of the tireless patience which is said to have distinguished Hillel. A famous story characterizing him tells of a time when a [[gentile]] came to him and asked to be [[Conversion to Judaism|converted to Judaism]] upon the condition that he summarize the entire [[Torah]] while standing on one leg. Shammai held this to be both impossible and impertient, and he drove the applicant away with his measuring stick. Hillel, on the other hand succeeded in converting doing as the seeker requested by summarizing all of "the Law and the Prophets" with the famous dictum: "What is hateful to you, do not unto your neighbor." (''Shabbat'', 31a).
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Shammai was likely a [[Palestinian Jew]]. His family was relatively well off, and he was an engineer by trade. A man of an irascible temperament, he adhered to the "letter of the law" in most cases, believing it was the responsibility of [[Jew]]s to uphold the [[Torah]] absolutely. A famous story characterizing him tells of a time when a [[Gentile]] came to him and asked to be [[Conversion|converted to Judaism]] upon the condition that Shammai summarize the entire Torah while standing on one leg. Shammai took offense at the request, and he drove the applicant away with his measuring stick. [[Hillel]], on the other hand, did as the seeker requested by summarizing all of "the Law and the [[Prophet]]s" with the famous dictum: "What is hateful to you, do not unto your neighbor." (''Shabbat'', 31a).
 
 
Nevertheless Shammai was in no way a misanthrope. He appears to have realized the disadvantages of his temper. Thus he recommended a friendly attitude toward all. His motto was: "Make the study of the [[Torah]] your chief occupation; speak little, but accomplish much; and receive every man with a friendly countenance" (''[[Avoth]]'', i. 15). He was modest even toward his pupils.
 
 
 
Yet, in his religious views Shammai was known to be strict. When he wished to make his son, while still a young child, conform to the law regarding fasting on [[Yom Kippur]] (the Day of Atonement), he was dissuaded from his purpose only through the insistence of his friends (''[[Yoma]]'', 77b). On another occasion, when his daughter-in-law gave birth to a boy on [[Sukkot]] (the Feast of Tabernacles) he broke through the roof of the bedchamer in order to make a [[sukkah]] of it, so that his new-born grandchild might fulfil the religious obligation of the festival (''[[Sukkah (Talmud)|Sukkah]]'', 28a).
 
 
 
==Leaderhip in Jerusalem==
 
 
 
In Shammai's day, the governing council of the Jews, or [[Sanhedrin]] was controlled by the Pharisees, to which both he and Hillel belonged. Hillel served as the council's president.  After Menahem the [[Essene]] resigned the office of  vice-president, Shammai was elected to it. Then, after Hillel died, around in 20 C.E., Shammai took his place as president with no vice-president from the minority being elected. The school of Shammai thus attained complete ascendancy, during which Shammai passed his "18 ordinances" in conformity with his ideas.
 
  
[[Image:shamai.jpg|thumb|250px|right|The tomb of Shamai in the Meron river in Israel]]
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It would be a mistake, however, to consider Shammai as a [[misanthrope]]. He appears to have recognized that his temper was a liability and recommended a friendly attitude toward all. His motto was: "Make the study of the [[Torah]] your chief occupation; speak little, but accomplish much; and receive every man with a friendly countenance" (''[[Avoth]]'', i. 15). While he upheld the Law with unbending firmness, he was reportedly modest in his personal style and evidenced humility even toward his young pupils.
  
The exact content of Shammai's ordinances is not known, but they seem to have been designed to strengthen Jewish identity by insisting on stringent separation between Jews and gentiles, an approach that was regarded as divisive and misanthropic by the followers of Hillel.
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However, in his religious views and actions, Shammai was famous for being strict. He is said to have wanted to make his son, still a young child, adhere to the law of fasting on [[Yom Kippur]] (the Day of Atonement), normally a tradition reserved to young adults and above. He was dissuaded from his intention only through the insistence of his friends (''Yoma'', 77b). On another occasion, when his daughter-in-law gave birth to a boy on [[Sukkot]] (the Feast of Tabernacles) he reportedly broke through the roof of her bedchamer in order to open the structure to the out-of-doors, so that his new-born grandchild would not be in technical violation of the obligations of the festival. (''Sukkah'', 28a)
  
The liberal Pharisees were thus forced into not only a minority position, but a relatively powerless one. Hillel's grandson [[Gamaliel]] succeeded the position of president after Shammai in the year 30, but the Sanhedrin would remain basically dominated by the house of Shammai until around 70 (see [[Council of Jamnia]]). A "voice from heaven" is said to have nullified the legality of the rulings of the house of Shammai (''Berakhot'', 1:7), which is why [[Rabbinical Judaism]] follows Hillel.
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==Leadership in Jerusalem==
  
An opinion preserved in the[[Talmud]] goes so far as to state that when Shammi passed one of the ordinances—a law completely contrary to the opinion of Hillel—the day "was as grievous to Israel as the day when the [[golden calf]] was made" (''Shabbat'', 17a).
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During Shammai's lifetime, the governing council of the Jews, or [[Sanhedrin]], was influenced by the [[Pharisees]], to which both he and [[Hillel]] belonged. Hillel served as the council's president. Shammai became vice-president after Menahem the [[Essene]] resigned that office. Then, after Hillel died, around in 20 C.E., Shammai took his place as president, with no vice-president from the minority being elected. The school of Shammai thus attained complete ascendancy, enabling Shammai to pass his "18 ordinances" in conformity with his ideas.
  
==Beit Shammai v. Beit Hillel==
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[[Image:shamai.jpg|thumb|250px|right|The tomb of Shammai in the Meron river in Israel.]]
In the years after the death of the two great teachers, disputations among their disciples increased to such an extent as to give rise to the saying, "The one Law has become two laws" (Tosef., Hag. 2:9; Sanh. 88b; Sotah 47b).
 
  
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The exact content of Shammai's ordinances is not known, but evidence suggests that they were designed to strengthen Jewish identity by insisting on stringent separation between [[Jews]] and [[Gentiles]], an approach that was regarded as divisive and even inhuman by the followers of Hillel.
  
The prevailing characteristics of the disputes are the restrictive tendency of the Shammaites and the moderation of the Hillelites. According to the [[Jewish Encyclopedia]], some 316 controversies between these two schools are preserved in the pages of the [[Talmud]]. Shammaites did not take the "strict" view on every issue. Indeed, in 55 of the 316 cases, they argue on the side of leniency. Thus, the [[Mishnah]] introduces some of the debates with the remark, "These are of the lenient views of Bet Shammai and the restrictive views of Bet Hillel." ('Eduy. 4:1; Tosef., 'Eduy. 2:2) Morever, sometimes a "strict" view on one issue led to a "liberal view" on another. For example, Shammai's strict view on the question of marriage led to his disciples upholding the rights of women in divorce cases to a greater extent than their opponents.  
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[[Gamaliel]], Hillel's grandson, held the position of Sanhedrin president around the year 30. Nevertheless, the Sanhedrin would remain primarily dominated by the House of Shammai until after 70 C.E. After that time, the House of Shammai rapidly lost influence (see below). During rabbinical debates at [[Council of Jamnia|Jamnia]] in the late first century, a "voice from heaven" is said to have nullified the legality of Shammai's rulings and those of his followers (''Berakhot'', 1:7). [[Rabbinical Judaism]] from then on would, for the most part, follow Hillel.
  
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==Beit Shammai vs. Beit Hillel==
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In the years following the death of the two great teachers, disputes among their disciples increased to such an extent as to give rise to the saying, "The one Law has become two laws" (Tosef., Hag. 2:9; Sanh. 88b; Sotah 47b). According to the ''Jewish Encyclopedia'', some 316 controversies between these two schools are preserved in the pages of the [[Talmud]]. However, the Shammaites did not always take the "strict" view on every issue. Indeed, in 55 of the 316 cases, they took the more lenient position. Sometimes a "strict" view on one issue led to a "liberal view" on another. For example, Shammai's strict view on the question of [[divorce]] led his disciples to a more liberal view regarding the legally acceptable behavior of wives.
  
The Shammaites were said to have inheritied the stern and unbending character of their founder. To them it seemed impossible to be too stringent in religious prohibitions. The Shammaites were also intensely patriotic, and would not bow to foreign rule. They opposed all relations not only with the Romans themselves, but also with those who cooperated with the Roman administration.<ref>Jastrow, Marcus, and Mendelsohn, S.   
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However, the Shammaites were said to have inherited, and even to intentionally imitate, the stern and unbending character of their founder. To them it seemed impossible to be too stringent in applying the Law. They were also intensely patriotic, refusing to submit to foreign rule. They opposed all friendly relations not only with the Romans themselves, but also with those [[Jew]]s who cooperated with the Roman administration.
"Bet Hillel and Bet Shammai" Jewish Encyclopedia, 1906. [http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/view.jsp?artid=956&letter=B] Retrieved April 4, 2007.</ref>
 
  
The Shammaites thus particularly abhorred both the Roman tax system and the Jewish collaborators who served as tax collectors. Under the leadership of Judas the or Galilean and a Shammaite named Zadok, (Tosef., 'Eduy. ii. 2; Yeb. 15b), a political movement arose to oppose, even violently, the practice of the Roman laws. The Shammaites were thus able to coalesce with the [[Zealots]] in this and probably other cases. The Hillelites, animated by a more tolerant and peaceful spirit, consequently lost influence to he House of Shammai on issues relating to Roman rule. Feelings between the two schools grew so hostile that they even refused to worship together.
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The House of Shammai particularly abhorred both the Roman tax system and the Jewish collaborators who served as tax collectors. Under the leadership of [[Zealot]] Judas the Galilean and a Shammaite named Zadok (Tosef., Eduy. ii. 2; Yeb. 15b), a popular political movement arose to oppose, even violently, the practice of the Roman laws. The Hillelites, animated by a more tolerant and peaceful spirit, consequently lost influence. Feelings between the two schools grew so hostile that they even refused to worship together.
  
As the sruggle intensified, the Shammaites atttempted to prevent all communication between Jew and Gentile, prohibiting the Jews from buying any article of food or drink from their heathen neighbors. The Hillelites refused to approve such sharply defined exclusiveness. However, in the Sanhedrinthe Shammaites, together with the Zealots, carried the day. Thus, the struggle between Shammai and Hillel forms an important historical background to the [[Jewish Wars]] against Rome and ultimately the destruction of the [[Temple of Jerusalem]].
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As the struggle intensified, the Shammaites attempted to prevent all communication between Jews and Gentiles, prohibiting Jews even from buying food from their [[Gentile]] neighbors. The Hillelites opposed such extreme exclusiveness. However, in the [[Sanhedrin]], the Shammaites, together with the Zealots, carried the day. Thus, the struggle between Shammai and Hillel forms an important historical background to the first Jewish rebellion against [[Rome]] and ultimately to the destruction of the [[Temple of Jerusalem]].
  
The House of Shammai and the House of Hillel continued their disputes even after destruction of the Temple, until the reorganization of the Sanhedrin under the presidency of Gamaliel II. (80 C.E..). By that time all hopes for victory over Rome had been lost, and the House of Shammai was obliged to take a subservient role. All disputed points were brought up for review and in nearly every case the opinion of the Hillelites prevailed (Tosef., Yeb. i. 13; Yer. Ber. i. 3b). Thenceforth it was said: "Where Beit Shammai is opposed to Beit Hillel, the opinion of Bet Shammai is considered as if not incorporated in the Mishnah"; that is, null and void.
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The House of Shammai and the House of Hillel continued their disputes even after the demise of the Temple, probably until the reorganization of the Sanhedrin under the presidency of Gamaliel II around 80 C.E. By that time all hopes for victory over Rome had been lost, and the House of Shammai was obliged to take a subservient role. Formerly disputed legal points were brought up for review and in nearly every case the opinion of the Hillelites prevailed (Tosef., Yeb. i. 13; Yer. Ber. i. 3b).
  
Few of the leading figures of the two houses during this period are known. Howver the [[Talmud]] names two leaders of the House of Hillel: Jonathan ben Uzziel and Johanan ben Zakkai. Three leaders of the Shammaites are mentioned by name: Baba ben Buṭa (Bezah 20a), Dositai of Kefar Yetma ('Orlah 2:5), and Zadok (Tosef., 'Eduy. 2:2). However, these three are mentioned mainly because, though Shammaites, they sometimes upheld the views of the Hillelites
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Few of the leading figures of the two houses during this period are known. The [[Talmud]] names two leaders of the House of Hillel: Jonathan ben Uzziel and [[Johanan ben Zakkai]]. Three leaders of the Shammaites are also mentioned by name: Baba ben Buṭa (Bezah 20a), Dositai of Kefar Yetma ('Orlah 2:5), and Zadok (Tosef., 'Eduy. 2:2). However, these three are mentioned mainly because, they represented a faction of the House of Shammai that sometimes supported the Hillelite position.
  
 
==Shammai and Christianity==
 
==Shammai and Christianity==
Many scholars believe that the debate between the followers of Shammai and Hillel formed an important background to the story of early Christianity. Some suggest that when Jesus, at the age of 12, was found by his parents in deep discussion with the teachers at the Temple, Shammai and Hillel—and certainly several of their close disciples—may have been among them. Jesus appears to have sided with the House of Hillel on many matters, from commerce with gentiles, to the degree of strictness he insisted on with regard to the kosher dietary lies. Indeed, Jesus' famous saying, "do unto others as you would have them do unto you" appears to be a paraphrase of Hillel's own summary of the [[Torah]]. Likewise, his willingness to compress "the law and the prophets" into short summary teachings such as "Love the Lord God with all your heart, and love your neighbor as yourself," place him firmly in the camp of Hillel.
 
  
We may even speculate that the "Pharisees" whom Jesus excoriates as "blind guides" and "children of hell" were those followers of Shammai who would be most prone to find fault with Jesus' teachings. Meanwhile, other Pharisees such as Nicodemus protected Jesus from persecution in the Sandhedrin. Joseph of Aramithea, who provided Jesus with his tomb and was reportedly a secret disciple, was also a Sanhedrin member. His affiliation is not stated, but it is unlikely that he was a follower of Shammai.
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The debate between the followers of Shammai and [[Hillel]] also formed part of the background to the story of early [[Christianity]]. When [[Jesus]], at the age of 12, was found by his parents in deep discussion with the teachers at the Temple, (Luke 2) it is possible that Shammai or Hillel—and certainly some of their close disciples—were among them. Jesus appears to have sided with the House of Hillel on many matters, from commerce with Gentiles to the degree of strictness he insisted on with regard to the [[kosher]] dietary laws. Indeed, Jesus' famous saying, "do unto others as you would have them do unto you" (Luke 6:31) appears to be a paraphrase of Hillel's own summary of the [[Torah]] (see above). Likewise, Jesus' willingness to compress "the Law and the [[Prophet]]s" into short summary teachings such as "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and... love your neighbor as yourself" (Mt. 22:32-36) place him firmly in the camp of Hillel.  
  
However, the evidence does not all favor viewing Jesus simply as a Hellelite. His strict teaching on divorce and statements such as "not a dot, not an iota shall pass away from the law until all is accomplished," portray hims as siding with Shammai at least some of the time.
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We may even speculate that the [[Pharisees]] whom Jesus excoriated as "blind guides" and "hypocrites" (Mt. 23) were followers of Shammai, who would be prone to find fault with Jesus' teachings. Meanwhile, other Pharisees, such as [[Nicodemus]], protected Jesus from persecution in the [[Sandhedrin]] (John 7:50-51). [[Joseph of Aramithea]], who provided Jesus with his tomb and was a secret disciple (John 19:38), was reportedly a prominent Sanhedrin member (Mark 15:43).
  
After Jesus' death, his early followers, too, seemed to fall into both camps. Those "[[Juaizers]]" who insisted that gentiles be circumcized before being accpeted into full Christian fellowship echo the attitude of Shammai. On the other hand, Paul's teaching that Jewish and Gentile Christians should eat at the same table seems in accord with the more liberal teachings of Hillel. In this regard, Paul's statement that he was taught by Gamiliel, Hillel's grandson, is particularly interesting.
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However, the evidence does not all favor viewing Jesus as a Hillelite. For example, his strict teaching on [[divorce]] (Matthew 5:32) places him on Shammai's side, since Hillel allowed divorce if a husband was in any way displeased with his wife. Also, the following passage from the [[Sermon on the Mount]] resonates deeply with the attitude of the House of Shammai:
  
The Shammai-type Jews would have been more prone to reject and persecute Christians both for their liberal attitude toward gentiles, and their willingness to "render unto Ceasar." Jesus' reputed association with "tax collectors and sinners" would have been particularly offensive to Shammai and his disciples. Reports of Christians being "cast out of the synagogues" or punished by local Jewish leaders may be best understood with reference to the dominance of the House of Shammai in Jewish politics of the time.
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:Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. Anyone who breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the [[kingdom of heaven]], but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 5:17-20)
  
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After Jesus' death, his early followers, too, seemed to fall into both camps. The "[[Judaizers]]," who insisted that non-Jewish believers be circumcised before being accepted into full Christian fellowship, echo the attitude of Shammai, whose followers refused fellowship with non-Jews. On the other hand, [[Saint Paul]]'s teaching that Jewish and Gentile Christians should sit together as brothers seems more in accord with teachings of Hillel, (Gal. 2:11-13) even surpassing Hillel in liberality. In this regard, Paul's statement that he was taught by [[Gamaliel]], Hillel's grandson, is particularly interesting (Acts 22:3). Gamaliel himself is portrayed as eloquently defending the rights of Jewish Christians in the Sanhedrin (Acts 5:33-39).
  
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During the period prior to the [[Jewish rebellion]] against Rome, Shammai-type Jews would have been likely to harshly reject and even persecute Jewish Christians, both for their liberal attitude toward Gentiles and their willingness to "render unto Caesar" (Mark 12:17). Jesus' reputed association with "tax collectors and sinners" (Matthew 11:19) would have been particularly offensive to Shammai's disciples. Reports of Jewish Christians being punished by local Jewish councils (Matthew 10:17) may be best understood with reference to the dominance of the House of Shammai in Jewish [[politics]] of the time.
  
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==References==
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*This article incorporates text from the 1901–1906 ''Jewish Encyclopedia'', a publication now in the public domain.
  
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* Buxbaum, Yitzhak. ''The Life and Teachings of Hillel''. Jason Aronson, 1994. ISBN 978-1568210490
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* Charlesworth, James H. ''Hillel and Jesus: Comparisons of Two Major Religious Leaders''. Fortress Press, 1997. ISBN 978-0800625641
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* Cohen, Abraham. ''Everyman's Talmud: The Major Teachings of the Rabbinic Sages''. Schocken; Reprint edition, 1995. ISBN 978-0805210323
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* Neusner, Jacob. ''The Rabbinic Traditions about the Pharisees Before 70, Part I: The Masters''. Wipf & Stock Publishers, 2005. ISBN 978-1597524124
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* &mdash;&mdash;&mdash;. ''The Rabbinic Traditions about the Pharisees Before 70, Part II: The Houses''. Wipf & Stock Publishers, 2005. ISBN 978-1597524131
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* Saldarini, James C. ''Pharisees, Scribes and Sadducees in Palestinian Society''. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company; New edition, 2007. ISBN 978-0802843586
  
''[note: parts of this article were copied from the Jewish Encyclopedia articles, now on the public domain, on "Shammai" and "Bet Shammai and Bet Hillel."]''
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==External links==
 
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All links retrieved January 27, 2023.
==References==
 
  
==External links==
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*[http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/view.jsp?artid=549&letter=S ''Shammai''] JewishEncyclopedia.com
*[http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/view.jsp?artid=549&letter=S Jewish Encyclopedia: Shammai]
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*[http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/view.jsp?artid=956&letter=B ''Bet Hillel and Bet Shammai''] JewishEncyclopedia.com
*[http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/view.jsp?artid=956&letter=B Jewish Encyclopedia: Bet Hillel and Bet Shammai]
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*Rutman, Yisrael, 2001. [http://www.jewishmag.com/40mag/shamai/shamai.htm ''Shammai the Misunderstood''] jewishmag.com
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[[Category:30 deaths]]
 
  
 
[[Category:Philosophy and religion]]
 
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[[Category:Biography]]
 
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Latest revision as of 13:10, 27 January 2023

Shammai (50 B.C.E. – 30 C.E.) was a famous Jewish scholar of the first century C.E., and an important figure in Judaism's core work of early rabbinic literature, the Mishnah. He was the most eminent contemporary and opponent of Hillel, taking a strict position on the interpretation of Jewish law versus Hillel's more liberal interpretation on many matters. Both teachers were part of the movement known as the Pharisees, who sought to increase piety among the Jewish people by emphasizing the application of the Law of Moses in everyday life, rather than insisting mainly on the priest-centered tradition of the Temple of Jerusalem.

Shammai's school became known as the House of Shammai (Beit Shammai), and Hillel's was known as the House of Hillel (Beit Hillel). The debates between these two schools of Jewish thought grew particularly bitter in the period leading up to the Jewish rebellion against Roman rule (66-73 C.E.) that resulted in the destruction of the Temple and the death of countless Jews. They also form the basis for many of the discussions recorded in the Talmud. Shammai's views also indirectly shaped early Christianity, in which Jesus appears to side with the school of Hillel on most matters, sometimes strongly denouncing the strict legalism that characterized the followers of Shammai.

Background and character

Shammai was likely a Palestinian Jew. His family was relatively well off, and he was an engineer by trade. A man of an irascible temperament, he adhered to the "letter of the law" in most cases, believing it was the responsibility of Jews to uphold the Torah absolutely. A famous story characterizing him tells of a time when a Gentile came to him and asked to be converted to Judaism upon the condition that Shammai summarize the entire Torah while standing on one leg. Shammai took offense at the request, and he drove the applicant away with his measuring stick. Hillel, on the other hand, did as the seeker requested by summarizing all of "the Law and the Prophets" with the famous dictum: "What is hateful to you, do not unto your neighbor." (Shabbat, 31a).

It would be a mistake, however, to consider Shammai as a misanthrope. He appears to have recognized that his temper was a liability and recommended a friendly attitude toward all. His motto was: "Make the study of the Torah your chief occupation; speak little, but accomplish much; and receive every man with a friendly countenance" (Avoth, i. 15). While he upheld the Law with unbending firmness, he was reportedly modest in his personal style and evidenced humility even toward his young pupils.

However, in his religious views and actions, Shammai was famous for being strict. He is said to have wanted to make his son, still a young child, adhere to the law of fasting on Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement), normally a tradition reserved to young adults and above. He was dissuaded from his intention only through the insistence of his friends (Yoma, 77b). On another occasion, when his daughter-in-law gave birth to a boy on Sukkot (the Feast of Tabernacles) he reportedly broke through the roof of her bedchamer in order to open the structure to the out-of-doors, so that his new-born grandchild would not be in technical violation of the obligations of the festival. (Sukkah, 28a)

Leadership in Jerusalem

During Shammai's lifetime, the governing council of the Jews, or Sanhedrin, was influenced by the Pharisees, to which both he and Hillel belonged. Hillel served as the council's president. Shammai became vice-president after Menahem the Essene resigned that office. Then, after Hillel died, around in 20 C.E., Shammai took his place as president, with no vice-president from the minority being elected. The school of Shammai thus attained complete ascendancy, enabling Shammai to pass his "18 ordinances" in conformity with his ideas.

The tomb of Shammai in the Meron river in Israel.

The exact content of Shammai's ordinances is not known, but evidence suggests that they were designed to strengthen Jewish identity by insisting on stringent separation between Jews and Gentiles, an approach that was regarded as divisive and even inhuman by the followers of Hillel.

Gamaliel, Hillel's grandson, held the position of Sanhedrin president around the year 30. Nevertheless, the Sanhedrin would remain primarily dominated by the House of Shammai until after 70 C.E. After that time, the House of Shammai rapidly lost influence (see below). During rabbinical debates at Jamnia in the late first century, a "voice from heaven" is said to have nullified the legality of Shammai's rulings and those of his followers (Berakhot, 1:7). Rabbinical Judaism from then on would, for the most part, follow Hillel.

Beit Shammai vs. Beit Hillel

In the years following the death of the two great teachers, disputes among their disciples increased to such an extent as to give rise to the saying, "The one Law has become two laws" (Tosef., Hag. 2:9; Sanh. 88b; Sotah 47b). According to the Jewish Encyclopedia, some 316 controversies between these two schools are preserved in the pages of the Talmud. However, the Shammaites did not always take the "strict" view on every issue. Indeed, in 55 of the 316 cases, they took the more lenient position. Sometimes a "strict" view on one issue led to a "liberal view" on another. For example, Shammai's strict view on the question of divorce led his disciples to a more liberal view regarding the legally acceptable behavior of wives.

However, the Shammaites were said to have inherited, and even to intentionally imitate, the stern and unbending character of their founder. To them it seemed impossible to be too stringent in applying the Law. They were also intensely patriotic, refusing to submit to foreign rule. They opposed all friendly relations not only with the Romans themselves, but also with those Jews who cooperated with the Roman administration.

The House of Shammai particularly abhorred both the Roman tax system and the Jewish collaborators who served as tax collectors. Under the leadership of Zealot Judas the Galilean and a Shammaite named Zadok (Tosef., Eduy. ii. 2; Yeb. 15b), a popular political movement arose to oppose, even violently, the practice of the Roman laws. The Hillelites, animated by a more tolerant and peaceful spirit, consequently lost influence. Feelings between the two schools grew so hostile that they even refused to worship together.

As the struggle intensified, the Shammaites attempted to prevent all communication between Jews and Gentiles, prohibiting Jews even from buying food from their Gentile neighbors. The Hillelites opposed such extreme exclusiveness. However, in the Sanhedrin, the Shammaites, together with the Zealots, carried the day. Thus, the struggle between Shammai and Hillel forms an important historical background to the first Jewish rebellion against Rome and ultimately to the destruction of the Temple of Jerusalem.

The House of Shammai and the House of Hillel continued their disputes even after the demise of the Temple, probably until the reorganization of the Sanhedrin under the presidency of Gamaliel II around 80 C.E. By that time all hopes for victory over Rome had been lost, and the House of Shammai was obliged to take a subservient role. Formerly disputed legal points were brought up for review and in nearly every case the opinion of the Hillelites prevailed (Tosef., Yeb. i. 13; Yer. Ber. i. 3b).

Few of the leading figures of the two houses during this period are known. The Talmud names two leaders of the House of Hillel: Jonathan ben Uzziel and Johanan ben Zakkai. Three leaders of the Shammaites are also mentioned by name: Baba ben Buṭa (Bezah 20a), Dositai of Kefar Yetma ('Orlah 2:5), and Zadok (Tosef., 'Eduy. 2:2). However, these three are mentioned mainly because, they represented a faction of the House of Shammai that sometimes supported the Hillelite position.

Shammai and Christianity

The debate between the followers of Shammai and Hillel also formed part of the background to the story of early Christianity. When Jesus, at the age of 12, was found by his parents in deep discussion with the teachers at the Temple, (Luke 2) it is possible that Shammai or Hillel—and certainly some of their close disciples—were among them. Jesus appears to have sided with the House of Hillel on many matters, from commerce with Gentiles to the degree of strictness he insisted on with regard to the kosher dietary laws. Indeed, Jesus' famous saying, "do unto others as you would have them do unto you" (Luke 6:31) appears to be a paraphrase of Hillel's own summary of the Torah (see above). Likewise, Jesus' willingness to compress "the Law and the Prophets" into short summary teachings such as "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and... love your neighbor as yourself" (Mt. 22:32-36) place him firmly in the camp of Hillel.

We may even speculate that the Pharisees whom Jesus excoriated as "blind guides" and "hypocrites" (Mt. 23) were followers of Shammai, who would be prone to find fault with Jesus' teachings. Meanwhile, other Pharisees, such as Nicodemus, protected Jesus from persecution in the Sandhedrin (John 7:50-51). Joseph of Aramithea, who provided Jesus with his tomb and was a secret disciple (John 19:38), was reportedly a prominent Sanhedrin member (Mark 15:43).

However, the evidence does not all favor viewing Jesus as a Hillelite. For example, his strict teaching on divorce (Matthew 5:32) places him on Shammai's side, since Hillel allowed divorce if a husband was in any way displeased with his wife. Also, the following passage from the Sermon on the Mount resonates deeply with the attitude of the House of Shammai:

Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. Anyone who breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 5:17-20)

After Jesus' death, his early followers, too, seemed to fall into both camps. The "Judaizers," who insisted that non-Jewish believers be circumcised before being accepted into full Christian fellowship, echo the attitude of Shammai, whose followers refused fellowship with non-Jews. On the other hand, Saint Paul's teaching that Jewish and Gentile Christians should sit together as brothers seems more in accord with teachings of Hillel, (Gal. 2:11-13) even surpassing Hillel in liberality. In this regard, Paul's statement that he was taught by Gamaliel, Hillel's grandson, is particularly interesting (Acts 22:3). Gamaliel himself is portrayed as eloquently defending the rights of Jewish Christians in the Sanhedrin (Acts 5:33-39).

During the period prior to the Jewish rebellion against Rome, Shammai-type Jews would have been likely to harshly reject and even persecute Jewish Christians, both for their liberal attitude toward Gentiles and their willingness to "render unto Caesar" (Mark 12:17). Jesus' reputed association with "tax collectors and sinners" (Matthew 11:19) would have been particularly offensive to Shammai's disciples. Reports of Jewish Christians being punished by local Jewish councils (Matthew 10:17) may be best understood with reference to the dominance of the House of Shammai in Jewish politics of the time.

References
ISBN links support NWE through referral fees

  • This article incorporates text from the 1901–1906 Jewish Encyclopedia, a publication now in the public domain.
  • Buxbaum, Yitzhak. The Life and Teachings of Hillel. Jason Aronson, 1994. ISBN 978-1568210490
  • Charlesworth, James H. Hillel and Jesus: Comparisons of Two Major Religious Leaders. Fortress Press, 1997. ISBN 978-0800625641
  • Cohen, Abraham. Everyman's Talmud: The Major Teachings of the Rabbinic Sages. Schocken; Reprint edition, 1995. ISBN 978-0805210323
  • Neusner, Jacob. The Rabbinic Traditions about the Pharisees Before 70, Part I: The Masters. Wipf & Stock Publishers, 2005. ISBN 978-1597524124
  • ———. The Rabbinic Traditions about the Pharisees Before 70, Part II: The Houses. Wipf & Stock Publishers, 2005. ISBN 978-1597524131
  • Saldarini, James C. Pharisees, Scribes and Sadducees in Palestinian Society. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company; New edition, 2007. ISBN 978-0802843586

External links

All links retrieved January 27, 2023.

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