Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Caiaphas, also known as Joseph Caiaphas, was the Jewish high priest during the time of Jesus Christ's ministry and crucifixion. He played a pivotal role in the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus. Caiaphas is a significant figure in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospels, where he is depicted as a key antagonist in the trial of Jesus. Historical Background: Caiaphas served as the high priest from approximately AD 18 to 36. He was appointed by the Roman prefect Valerius Gratus and was a member of the Sadducees, a sect known for its aristocratic and priestly influence. The high priesthood during this period was a position of both religious and political power, often subject to Roman approval. Biblical References: Caiaphas is mentioned in several passages in the New Testament. In the Gospel of Matthew, Caiaphas is identified as the high priest who plotted to arrest Jesus and put Him to death. Matthew 26:3-4 states, "At that time the chief priests and elders of the people assembled in the courtyard of the high priest, whose name was Caiaphas, and they conspired to arrest Jesus covertly and kill Him." In the Gospel of John, Caiaphas is noted for his pragmatic approach to the threat he perceived Jesus posed to the stability of the nation. John 11:49-50 records, "But one of them, Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, said to them, 'You know nothing at all! You do not realize that it is better for you that one man die for the people than that the whole nation perish.'" Caiaphas's role in the trial of Jesus is further detailed in the Gospels. He presided over the Sanhedrin, the Jewish council, which sought to find grounds to condemn Jesus. In Matthew 26:57-68 , Jesus is brought before Caiaphas, where false witnesses are sought to testify against Him. Caiaphas directly questions Jesus about His identity as the Messiah, leading to Jesus's affirmation and the high priest's declaration of blasphemy. Theological Significance: Caiaphas's actions are often viewed as fulfilling the divine plan for the atonement of humanity through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. His statement in John 11:50, though politically motivated, is seen by many as an unwitting prophecy of Jesus's sacrificial death for the salvation of mankind. Archaeological Evidence: In 1990, an ossuary bearing the name "Joseph, son of Caiaphas" was discovered in Jerusalem, providing archaeological evidence of Caiaphas's historical existence. This find has been significant in corroborating the biblical account of Caiaphas as a historical figure. Legacy: Caiaphas is often remembered as a symbol of the religious establishment's opposition to Jesus. His involvement in the trial and crucifixion of Jesus highlights the tension between the Jewish authorities and the early Christian movement. Despite his opposition, Caiaphas's actions inadvertently contributed to the fulfillment of the messianic prophecies concerning Jesus's death and resurrection. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary Caiphashe that seeks with diligence; one that vomiteth Library The Tribunal of Caiphas. Mary in the House of Caiphas. Jesus Before Caiphas. The Insults Received by Jesus in the Court of Caiphas. The Dolorous Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ The Morning Trial. Means Employed by the Enemies of Jesus for Carrying Out their ... Jesus Before Annas. Jesus is Taken Before Pilate. Whether Prophets Always Know the Things which they Prophesy? Resources What are some exciting discoveries in biblical archaeology? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is truth? | GotQuestions.org What trials did Jesus face before His crucifixion? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Caiaphas: Peter and Other Disciples Accused Before Caiaphas: Prophesies Concerning Jesus Related Terms |
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