Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor of Judea from approximately 26-36 AD, is a significant figure in the New Testament, primarily known for his role in the trial and crucifixion of Jesus Christ. His governance and decisions have been subjects of theological and historical analysis, reflecting his complex character and the political tensions of the time. Historical Context: Pilate served under Emperor Tiberius and was the fifth prefect of the Roman province of Judea. His tenure was marked by a series of conflicts with the Jewish population, stemming from his insensitivity to their religious customs and his often harsh administrative methods. Historical sources, including the Jewish historian Josephus and the Roman historian Tacitus, provide additional insights into his rule, often portraying him as a figure of controversy and brutality. Biblical Account: In the Gospels, Pilate is depicted as the Roman authority who presided over the trial of Jesus. The Gospel of Matthew describes Pilate's initial reluctance to condemn Jesus, as he found no fault in Him: "What crime has He committed?" (Matthew 27:23). Despite his wife's warning about a troubling dream concerning Jesus (Matthew 27:19), Pilate ultimately capitulated to the demands of the crowd, symbolically washing his hands to indicate his claimed innocence in the matter: "I am innocent of this man’s blood. You bear the responsibility" (Matthew 27:24). In the Gospel of John, Pilate's interrogation of Jesus reveals a philosophical exchange about kingship and truth. Jesus declares, "My kingdom is not of this world" (John 18:36), prompting Pilate's famous question, "What is truth?" (John 18:38). Despite recognizing Jesus' innocence, Pilate succumbs to political pressure, fearing unrest and potential repercussions from Rome. Role in the Crucifixion: Pilate's decision to hand Jesus over to be crucified is a pivotal moment in the Passion narrative. The Gospel of Mark succinctly states, "Wishing to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. But he had Jesus flogged, and handed Him over to be crucified" (Mark 15:15). This act of political expediency highlights Pilate's struggle between justice and maintaining order, ultimately prioritizing his position and authority over moral conviction. Theological Implications: Pilate's role in the crucifixion of Jesus is often viewed through the lens of divine providence, as his actions, though politically motivated, fulfilled the prophetic Scriptures concerning the Messiah's suffering and death. The Apostles' Creed, a foundational statement of Christian belief, acknowledges Pilate's involvement, underscoring the historical reality of Jesus' crucifixion: "suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried." Legacy and Tradition: Pilate's legacy is complex, with various traditions and apocryphal writings offering differing perspectives on his later life and death. Some early Christian writings suggest he may have converted to Christianity, while others depict him as a tragic figure caught in the machinations of history. His portrayal in art and literature often reflects the enduring fascination with his character and the moral dilemmas he faced. Conclusion: While Pilate's historical and biblical portrayal is multifaceted, his role in the trial and crucifixion of Jesus remains a central element of the Gospel narrative, illustrating the intersection of divine purpose and human agency. Greek 5511. chlamus -- a chlamys or short cloak ... 5.1.10), a soldier's sagum or scarf. Carr () suggests that it may have been a worn-out scarf of Pilate's" (, 1, 229).]. Word Origin a prim. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5511.htm - 7k Library Description of Pilate's Palace and the Adjacent Buildings. Pilate's Suicide. In Pilate's Judgment Hall Pilate's Fruitless Efforts to Save Jesus. --The Dream of Pilate's ... Of the Absence of any Discrepancies in the Accounts which the ... Of the Mockery which He Sustained at the Hands of Pilate's Cohort ... The Title on the Cross The Morning Trial. (On the Passion, viii. : on Wednesday in Holy Week. ) Two Ancient Proverbs Thesaurus Pilate's (4 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Pilate's (4 Occurrences). John 19:8 When this saying came to Pilate's ears his fear became greater; (BBE). ... /p/pilate's.htm - 7k Pontius (4 Occurrences) Pilate (60 Occurrences) Nephtoah (2 Occurrences) Judgment (430 Occurrences) Floor (69 Occurrences) Removed (294 Occurrences) Ecce Dream (82 Occurrences) Pildash (1 Occurrence) Resources What does it mean that Jesus is the King of the Jews? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Pontius Pilate? | GotQuestions.org How did God use dreams and visions in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Pilate's (4 Occurrences)John 19:8 John 19:13 John 19:22 John 19:38 Subtopics Related Terms |