Sanhedrin

American  

[san-hed-rin, -hee-drin, sahn-, san-i-drin] / sænˈhɛd rɪn, -ˈhi drɪn, sɑn-, ˈsæn ɪ drɪn /

Also Sanhedrim

noun

Jewish History.

1. Also called Great Sanhedrin.  the highest council of the ancient Jews, consisting of 71 members, and exercising authority from about the 2nd century b.c.

2. Also called Lesser Sanhedrin.  a lower tribunal of this period, consisting of 23 members.

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Sanhedrin British  

/ ˈsænɪdrɪn /

noun

1. the supreme judicial, ecclesiastical, and administrative council of the Jews in New Testament times, having 71 members

2. a similar tribunal of 23 members having less important functions and authority

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Etymology

Origin of Sanhedrin

1580–90; < late Hebrew Sanhedhrīn < Greek synédrion, equivalent to syn- syn- + hédr ( a ) seat ( cf. cathedral) + -ion noun suffix

Example Sentences

The bullying Sanhedrin constables, led by a pricelessly cowardly Jared Loftin, are all about keeping the oppressed in line.

From Washington Post • Feb. 16, 2022

The excavation unearthed ruins of a building with cups made of chalkstone, a material deemed appropriate for Jewish religious rites, pointing to the presence of the exiled Sanhedrin legislative assembly, the Israel Antiquities Authority said.

From Reuters • Nov. 29, 2021

The Talmud, in Tractate Sanhedrin, guides that courts ought to actively seek – and prefer compromise in – monetary matters, rather than move to judgment.

From Washington Post • Nov. 28, 2012

She has also helped to decide whether you’re a shop owner, an apostle or a member of the Sanhedrin.

From New York Times • Apr. 20, 2011

Judas was a mere tool of the Sanhedrin, who had his resentments and grievances to avenge.

From A Harmony of the Gospels for Students of the Life of Christ Based on the Broadus Harmony in the Revised Version by Robertson, Archibald Thomas