The word 'scribe' means 'a writer' and originally the particular task of the Jewish scribes was to make new, exact copies of the hand-written manuscripts of the Jewish Scriptures. The scribes did not constitute a religious party and although most of them were associated with the Pharisees, some were also associated with the Sadducees. Through their precise acquaintance with the text of the Jewish Scriptures, they were accepted as experts in the content and application of the Law. They were greatly respected as scholars and could make authoritative statements on the Law. They preserved the ancient Hebrew language.

They were not paid for their work although they could receive gifts and usually they supported themselves by following a trade. A young man who wished to become a scribe would attach himself to a master scribe and study with him for some years. Master scribes in Jerusalem maintained schools which attracted many young students. Two of the most famous of these were the schools of the scribes Hillel and Shammai. A scribe was entitled to be called 'Rabbi' or 'Teacher'.

The representatives of the Pharisees in the Sanhedrin, the Jewish court of justice, were all scribes. In Luke 20:19 they are described as the teachers of the Law.