Sanhedrin, Sanhedriyyot, or Mere Invention?

Full title
Sanhedrin, Sanhedriyyot, or Mere Invention?
Research notes

reader checked|22/02/2012 AL

Reference type
Author(s)
Grabbe, Lester L.
Year
2008
Journal / Book Title || Series Title
Journal for the Study of Judaism
Volume
39
Number of volumes
0
Issue / Series Volume
1
Pages
1-19
Alternative title
JSJ
Label
25/02/2008
Abstract

The institution of the Sanhedrin has been taken for granted in much discussion on Second Temple Judaism. In recent years, however, it has come to be questioned. This study examines the primary evidence and asks historical questions: Did such an institution (under the name "Sanhedrin" or some other name or names) actually exist? If so, what form did it take? How might it have functioned? The study concludes that such an institution did exist, but not as described in the Mishnah tractate Sanhedrin, and it varied in function and power through its long history.