Pilate
Pilate in the Bible — the governor of Judea (MAT 27:2). Referenced in 4 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “armed with a dart”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Scripture References
- 4 references
- Known Names
- 4 names
Biography
Pilate was a male Roman official who served as the fifth governor of Judea under Emperor Tiberius. He is uniquely identified in Scripture as the governor of Judea, holding a significant administrative and judicial role in the region. His governance is noted in the Gospel of Matthew and the Gospel of Luke.
Names & Titles
The name 'Pilate' appears as a proper name without a specified meaning. He is also referred to as 'Pilate the governor,' a title indicating his role as a garrison commander or military leader. Additionally, the name 'Pontius Pilate' is used, identifying him more fully, and he is titled 'Governor of Judea,' confirming his official position over the province.
Family
Scripture does not record any family relationships for Pilate beyond his official role as governor of Judea. There are no known familial connections or personal relationships mentioned in the biblical text.
Significance
Pilate's significance in the biblical narrative lies in his position as the Roman authority over Judea during a critical period in the life of Jesus Christ. As the fifth governor under Tiberius, he had the authority to oversee legal and political matters, including the trial and sentencing of Jesus. His role is pivotal in the fulfillment of the divine plan for redemption, as he presided over the events leading to the crucifixion.
Names & Labels (4)
- Hebrew
- פִּילָטוֹס
- Transliteration
- piylatos
- Greek
- Πιλᾶτος
- Reference
- MAT 27:2
- Strong's
- none
- Hebrew
- פִּילָטוֹס הַנָּצִיב
- Transliteration
- piylatos hanatsiv
- Meaning
- Pilate the garrison [commander?]
- Greek
- Πιλάτῳ τῷ ἡγεμόνι
- Reference
- MAT 27:2
- Strong's
- [none], H5333
- Hebrew
- פּוֹנְטְיוֹס פִּילָטוֹס
- Transliteration
- ponətəyos piylatos
- Greek
- Πόντιος Πιλᾶτος
- Reference
- LUK 3:1
- Strong's
- none
- Hebrew
- נְצִיב יְהוּדָה
- Transliteration
- nətsiyv yəhudah
- Meaning
- governor [of] Judah
- Greek
- ἡγεμονεύοντος τῆς Ἰουδαίας
- Reference
- LUK 3:1
- Strong's
- H5333, H3063
Notes
fifth governor of Judea under Tiberius
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Pilate in the Bible?
Pilate was a male Roman official who served as the fifth governor of Judea under Emperor Tiberius. He is uniquely identified in Scripture as the governor of Judea, holding a significant administrative and judicial role in the region. His governance is noted in the Gospel of Matthew and the Gospel of Luke.
What does the name Pilate mean?
The name Pilate means “armed with a dart” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.