Barabbas
Barabbas in the Bible — notorious prisoner (MAT 27:16) set free instead of the Messiah. Referenced in 1 scripture passage.
Name meaning: “son of shame, confusion”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Scripture References
- 1 reference
- Known Names
- 1 name
Biography
Barabbas was a male notorious prisoner known for being set free instead of the Messiah, as recorded in Matthew 27:16. Scripture does not provide information about his tribe or additional personal details beyond his infamous release. His role is unique in the Gospel narrative as the man chosen by the crowd to be freed in place of Jesus Christ.
Names & Titles
The name Barabbas means 'son of the father,' a proper name mentioned in Matthew 27:16. This name, while common in form, contrasts poignantly with the identity of Jesus, the true Son of the Father, highlighting the irony of his release over the Messiah.
Family
Scripture does not record family relationships for Barabbas beyond what is stated in his name and unique attribute. There are no additional relational details provided in the biblical text.
Significance
Barabbas holds significant importance in the biblical narrative as the prisoner chosen by the crowd to be released instead of Jesus Christ, the Messiah. His release fulfills the Roman custom presented by Pilate and serves as a powerful symbol of the substitutionary nature of Christ's sacrifice. Through Barabbas, the Gospel highlights the rejection of the innocent Savior and the deliverance of a guilty man, underscoring the depth of Christ's atoning work.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- בַּר־אַבָּא
- Transliteration
- bar-aba
- Meaning
- son [of the] father
- Greek
- Βαραββᾶς
- Reference
- MAT 27:16
- Strong's
- H1248, H1
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Barabbas in the Bible?
Barabbas was a male notorious prisoner known for being set free instead of the Messiah, as recorded in Matthew 27:16. Scripture does not provide information about his tribe or additional personal details beyond his infamous release. His role is unique in the Gospel narrative as the man chosen by the crowd to be freed in place of Jesus Christ.
What does the name Barabbas mean?
The name Barabbas means “son of shame, confusion” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.