Simon the Pharisee is mentioned in the Bible in Luke 7:36-50. This passage records an encounter between Simon, Jesus, and a sinful woman. Here are the key details about Simon the Pharisee from this account:
He was a Pharisee
Simon is explicitly called “one of the Pharisees” (Luke 7:36). The Pharisees were a Jewish religious sect known for their strict observance of the Law of Moses and oral traditions. As a Pharisee, Simon would have been very knowledgeable about the Hebrew scriptures and zealous for ritual purity.
He invited Jesus to eat at his house
The passage states that Simon “asked him [Jesus] to eat with him” (Luke 7:36). Simon was apparently interested in interacting with Jesus and having him as a dinner guest. However, as the account unfolds, it becomes clear Simon did not truly understand who Jesus was.
He judged Jesus and the sinful woman
When a notorious sinner came and anointed Jesus’ feet, Simon judged both her and Jesus. He thought to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would have known who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, for she is a sinner” (Luke 7:39). Simon looked down on the woman due to her sinful lifestyle and was surprised that Jesus did not rebuke her or avoid her touch.
Jesus corrected Simon’s misconceptions
In response to Simon’s judgmental attitude, Jesus told him a parable and explained why the woman’s actions were praiseworthy while Simon’s hospitality was lacking. Simon failed to show Jesus the usual courtesies like providing water to wash his feet or greeting him with a kiss (Luke 7:44-46). Jesus commended the woman for her humility, love, and faith in contrast to Simon’s pride and self-righteousness.
His sins were forgiven
After interacting with Simon, Jesus said to the woman, “Your sins are forgiven” (Luke 7:48). Jesus had the authority to forgive sins, and he indicated that this also applied to Simon. Despite being a religious leader, Simon was still a sinner in need of forgiveness just like the sinful woman.
While few details are provided about Simon’s background or life beyond this account, the passage gives important insights into his character. As a Pharisee, he strictly observed the Law but did not have love and grace toward those viewed as sinners. His view of Jesus was also misguided, failing to recognize Jesus as the Messiah. Yet despite Simon’s flaws, Jesus came to forgive his sins and correct his misconceptions through this memorable encounter.
Other key points about Simon the Pharisee:
- He lived in Galilee, specifically the town of Nain, where Jesus raised a widow’s son from the dead (Luke 7:11-17). Simon may have heard of this miracle.
- Simon referred to Jesus as “Teacher” when addressing him, indicating he viewed Jesus as a rabbi and public preacher.
- By inviting Jesus to eat at his house, Simon showed a level of interest in Jesus, though his attitude was still condescending.
- Simon was thinking critically about Jesus’ actions rather than accepting his divine status outright.
- Simon did not provide the usual hospitality to Jesus as an honored guest, hinting at his true feelings.
- Jesus’ response emphasized love, mercy and humility over ritual and appearances.
- Though Simon was a religious leader, he was still flawed and in need of forgiveness like all people.
Simon the Leper: A Different Simon?
Another Simon, called “Simon the Leper,” is mentioned in Matthew 26:6-13 and Mark 14:3-9. Is this the same Simon the Pharisee from Luke 7?
There are several reasons why they may be different men:
- Simon the Leper is not identified as a Pharisee.
- Simon the Pharisee lived in Galilee, while Simon the Leper lived in Bethany near Jerusalem.
- The anointing by the sinful woman is very different than the anointing by Mary of Bethany.
- Simon the Pharisee hosted Jesus for dinner, while Simon the Leper appears to have been healed by Jesus.
So while both were recipients of Jesus’ mercy, Simon the Pharisee and Simon the Leper likely refer to two distinct individuals.
Lessons Christians Can Learn from Simon the Pharisee:
Simon provides both positive and negative examples for believers today:
- Even religious people need forgiveness and grace.
- Outward righteousness can mask inward sin.
- Judging others wrongly also judges Christ.
- Humility and love matter more than prestige and reputation.
- Jesus came for sinners, outcasts, and outsiders.
- Faith in Christ alone saves – not good works or ritual.
- Respond to Jesus with worship, not just curiosity.
While Simon was mistaken in his view of Jesus and the sinful woman, his story provides lessons for all believers. Christians should examine their own hearts rather than looking down on “sinners.” Faith in Christ and love for others are more important than appearances and prestige. Jesus calls His followers to humility, compassion, grace, and transformation from within.
Simon the Pharisee in the Context of Luke’s Gospel
Looking at Simon the Pharisee in the broader context of Luke’s gospel provides additional insight:
- Luke highlights Jesus’ compassion for those considered outsiders – women, gentiles, tax collectors, sinners, the poor.
- Self-righteous religious elites often opposed Jesus in Luke, while marginalized groups welcomed Him.
- Forgiveness of sins and inclusion of outcasts was a hallmark of Jesus’ ministry.
- Women play a prominent role throughout Luke’s gospel.
- Jesus came to seek and save the lost – His mission went beyond the Jewish people.
- The Good Samaritan parable reinforces love for neighbor immediately after this account.
Luke emphasizes Jesus’ mercy, His clashes with the religious establishment, and the inclusive reach of the gospel. The Simon narrative fits this larger theme. Jesus offered forgiveness even to a Pharisee, while commending the faith of a sinful woman.
Conclusion
Simon the Pharisee only appears briefly in Luke’s gospel, yet from this account readers learn important lessons. Though a religious leader, Simon was flawed in his condescending attitude and failure to love. Jesus corrected Simon and provided insight into what God values: humility, faith, and love. The story fits one of Luke’s larger themes: God’s redemptive plan is for all people, regardless of background, gender, or reputation. Though Simon played a minor role, his encounter with Jesus offers much for Christians today to reflect upon and apply.