Barabbas in the Bible was a Jewish prisoner described as a notorious criminal, robber, and insurrectionist who had committed murder during a rebellion against Roman rule in Jerusalem. He is mentioned in all four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) and is best known for being the prisoner whom the crowd chose to release instead of Jesus Christ during the Passover festival, as offered by the Roman governor Pontius Pilate
. Barabbas's name means "son of the father" in Aramaic, and some ancient manuscripts even refer to him as "Jesus Barabbas," which would have made Pilate's offer—"Jesus Barabbas or Jesus of Nazareth"—more striking
. The release of Barabbas instead of Jesus is seen as a pivotal moment leading to Jesus's crucifixion. Barabbas represented a violent revolutionary trying to free the Jews through rebellion, whereas Jesus represented spiritual salvation and peace
. In summary:
- Barabbas was a rebel and murderer imprisoned by the Romans.
- He was chosen by the crowd to be released instead of Jesus.
- His name means "son of the father."
- His release is recorded in all four Gospels.
- He symbolizes the choice between violent rebellion and spiritual redemption
