Barabbas is a figure mentioned in the New Testament, known primarily for his role in the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. His name, Barabbas, is Aramaic in origin, meaning "son of the father" or "son of the teacher." He is a notable character in the Passion narratives, appearing in all four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

Biblical Account

Barabbas is introduced during the trial of Jesus before Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor of Judea. According to the custom of the time, during the Passover festival, the governor would release a prisoner chosen by the crowd. Pilate, recognizing the innocence of Jesus and seeking a way to release Him, offered the crowd a choice between Jesus and Barabbas.

In the Gospel of Matthew, Barabbas is described as a "notorious prisoner" (Matthew 27:16). Mark's Gospel provides further detail, identifying him as one who had been imprisoned with rebels who had committed murder during an insurrection (Mark 15:7). Luke corroborates this, stating that Barabbas had been thrown into prison for "insurrection in the city and for murder" (Luke 23:19). John's Gospel also mentions Barabbas, noting that he was a "bandit" (John 18:40).

Despite Pilate's attempts to sway the crowd, they demanded the release of Barabbas and called for the crucifixion of Jesus. Pilate, succumbing to the pressure of the crowd, released Barabbas and handed Jesus over to be crucified (Matthew 27:26, Mark 15:15, Luke 23:25, John 19:16).

Theological Significance

Barabbas serves as a powerful symbol within Christian theology. His release in place of Jesus is often seen as a representation of the substitutionary atonement of Christ. Just as Barabbas, a guilty man, was set free while Jesus, the innocent Lamb of God, was condemned, so too are believers set free from the penalty of sin through the sacrificial death of Jesus. This exchange highlights the core Christian belief in Jesus' role as the Savior who takes upon Himself the sins of the world.

The choice between Jesus and Barabbas also underscores the rejection of Jesus by His own people, fulfilling the prophetic words of Isaiah: "He was despised and rejected by men" (Isaiah 53:3). The crowd's preference for Barabbas over Jesus illustrates the blindness and hardness of heart that can lead individuals to choose temporal, worldly solutions over divine truth and salvation.

Historical Context

The mention of Barabbas as an insurrectionist provides insight into the political climate of Judea under Roman occupation. The Jewish people were subject to Roman rule, and there were frequent uprisings and revolts against the oppressive regime. Barabbas, as a participant in such an insurrection, would have been seen by some as a freedom fighter, while others viewed him as a criminal.

The decision to release Barabbas instead of Jesus reflects the complex interplay of political, social, and religious factors at play during this period. Pilate's reluctance to condemn Jesus, coupled with his ultimate decision to appease the crowd, highlights the tenuous nature of Roman authority and the volatile atmosphere in Jerusalem during the Passover festival.

Cultural Impact

Barabbas has been a subject of interest in various cultural and artistic expressions throughout history. His account has been depicted in literature, film, and art, often exploring themes of justice, mercy, and redemption. The character of Barabbas challenges audiences to reflect on the nature of choice, the consequences of sin, and the profound grace offered through Jesus Christ.

In summary, Barabbas is a pivotal figure in the Passion narrative, serving as a symbol of the human condition and the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice. His account invites believers to contemplate the depth of God's love and the gift of salvation available to all who accept Jesus as Lord and Savior.Barab'bas (10 Occurrences)

Matthew 27:16
and they had then a noted prisoner, called Barabbas,
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Matthew 27:17
they therefore having been gathered together, Pilate said to them, 'Whom will ye I shall release to you? Barabbas or Jesus who is called Christ?'
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Matthew 27:20
And the chief priests and the elders did persuade the multitudes that they might ask for themselves Barabbas, and might destroy Jesus;
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Matthew 27:21
and the governor answering said to them, 'Which of the two will ye 'that' I shall release to you?' And they said, 'Barabbas.'
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Matthew 27:26
Then did he release to them Barabbas, and having scourged Jesus, he delivered 'him' up that he may be crucified;
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Mark 15:7
and there was 'one' named Barabbas, bound with those making insurrection with him, who had in the insurrection committed murder.
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Mark 15:11
and the chief priests did move the multitude, that he might rather release Barabbas to them.
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Mark 15:15
and Pilate, wishing to content the multitude, released to them Barabbas, and delivered up Jesus -- having scourged 'him' -- that he might be crucified.
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Luke 23:18
and they cried out -- the whole multitude -- saying, 'Away with this one, and release to us Barabbas,'
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John 18:40
therefore they all cried out again, saying, 'Not this one -- but Barabbas;' and Barabbas was a robber.
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Barab'bas (10 Occurrences)
Barab'bas. Barabbas, Barab'bas. Barabbas's . Multi-Version Concordance
Barab'bas (10 Occurrences). Matthew 27:16 and they had then ...
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Barabbas (10 Occurrences)

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Barabbas's (1 Occurrence)

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