5. The Pythagoreans had their Elders in singular respect.[158] So had the Essenes.[159] The body, or whole company of the Essenes, were distinguisht εἰς μοίρας τέσσαρας into four ranks, or orders, according to their Seniority; and if haply any of the superior ranks had touched any of the inferior, he thought himself polluted, as if he had touched an Heathen.
[158] Suidas. It. Laertius.
[159] Joseph. de bello Judaic. lib. 2. cap. 12.
6. The Pythagoreans drank water.[160] So did the Essenes only water,[161] wholly abstaining from wine.
[160] Suidas.
[161] Philo de vita contemplativa.
7. The Pythagoreans used θυσίαις ἀψύχαις inanimate Sacrifices.[162] So did the Essenes:[163] they sent gifts to the Temple, and did not sacrifice, but preferred the use of their holy water before sacrifice, for which reason the other Jews forbad them all access unto the Temple.
[162] Laertius in vita Pythag.
[163] Joseph. Antiq. lib. 18. cap. 2.
8. The Pythagoreans ascribed all things to fate or destiny.[164] So did the Essenes.[165] In this Aphorism all three Sects differed each from other. The Pharisees ascribed some things to Fate, and other things to Mans Free-will. The Essenes ascribed all to Fate, nothing to mans free will. The Sadduces wholly deny Fate, and ascribed all things to the free will of man.