Barabbas

Definition

Barabbas is a figure mentioned in the New Testament of the Bible, known as a prisoner who was released instead of Jesus during the trial before Pontius Pilate. His release is significant because it symbolizes the choice the crowd had to make between a known criminal and Jesus, highlighting themes of injustice and redemption that are central to the crucifixion and resurrection narrative.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Barabbas was described in the Gospels as a notorious prisoner involved in insurrection and murder, making his release even more striking in contrast to Jesus' innocence.
2. The choice between Barabbas and Jesus reflects the tensions between the Jewish leaders and the Roman authorities, emphasizing political and social dynamics of the time.
3. The crowd's decision to free Barabbas over Jesus can be seen as a fulfillment of prophecy, illustrating the deep themes of rejection and sacrifice found in Christian theology.
4. Barabbas' release signifies the idea that Jesus took on the sins of humanity, making him a symbolic figure for those who seek forgiveness and redemption.
5. The account of Barabbas is present in all four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John), highlighting its importance in the narrative surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion.

Review Questions

• How does Barabbas' release contrast with Jesus' innocence, and what implications does this have for understanding themes of justice in the crucifixion narrative?
  • Barabbas was a convicted criminal guilty of insurrection and murder, whereas Jesus was innocent according to Pontius Pilate. This stark contrast raises significant questions about justice and morality, illustrating how societal pressures can lead to unjust outcomes. The crowd's choice to release Barabbas highlights themes of rejection and the complex dynamics between authority and public sentiment during this pivotal moment.
• Discuss the significance of Barabbas within the context of the Passover tradition and what it reveals about Roman governance during this time.
  • Barabbas' release during Passover is crucial because it ties into the Jewish custom of freeing a prisoner during this festival. This practice reveals how Roman governance attempted to appease local populations while maintaining control. The decision to present Barabbas alongside Jesus showcases the tension between Roman authority and Jewish expectations, highlighting how this moment served both as a political maneuver and a reflection of societal values.
• Evaluate how Barabbas serves as a theological symbol in Christianity, particularly regarding concepts of sin, redemption, and sacrifice in light of Jesus' crucifixion.
  • Barabbas embodies themes of sin and redemption; his release can be interpreted as representing humanity's sinful nature while Jesus willingly takes on those sins through His crucifixion. This act positions Barabbas as a symbol for all who seek forgiveness, reinforcing that Jesus’ sacrifice was not just for an individual but for all humanity. Theologically, this underscores the idea that salvation comes through recognizing one's own sinfulness while accepting grace through Christ's ultimate sacrifice.

Related terms

Pontius Pilate:

The Roman governor who presided over the trial of Jesus and ultimately authorized His crucifixion despite finding no guilt in Him.

Crucifixion:

A method of execution in which a person is nailed or bound to a cross, famously known for being the manner of Jesus' death.

Passover: A significant Jewish festival that commemorates the Israelites' liberation from slavery in Egypt, during which Barabbas was released as part of a Passover custom.