Topical Encyclopedia In the context of ancient Jewish and Roman customs, the practice of releasing prisoners during significant feasts is a notable tradition mentioned in the New Testament. This custom is particularly highlighted during the Passover festival, a time of great religious and cultural significance for the Jewish people.Biblical References The most prominent biblical account of this practice is found in the Gospels, where it is described in the context of Jesus' trial before Pontius Pilate. According to the Gospel of Matthew, "Now it was the governor’s custom at the feast to release to the crowd a prisoner of their choosing" (Matthew 27:15). This custom is further corroborated in the Gospels of Mark, Luke, and John, indicating its widespread recognition and acceptance during that period. In Mark 15:6-15, the narrative describes how Pilate, seeking to appease the crowd, offered to release Jesus, known as the "King of the Jews." However, the chief priests stirred the crowd to demand the release of Barabbas, a notorious prisoner involved in insurrection and murder. Pilate, despite his initial reluctance, ultimately succumbed to the crowd's demands, releasing Barabbas and sentencing Jesus to be crucified. Luke 23:17-25 provides a similar account, emphasizing Pilate's repeated attempts to release Jesus, whom he found innocent of any crime deserving death. Yet, the crowd's insistence on freeing Barabbas prevailed. The Gospel of John also records this event, noting Pilate's question to the crowd, "Do you want me to release to you the King of the Jews?" (John 18:39), and their subsequent choice of Barabbas over Jesus. Historical and Cultural Context The practice of releasing prisoners during feasts likely served multiple purposes. It was a gesture of goodwill from the ruling authorities, aimed at maintaining peace and order during times of large gatherings and heightened nationalistic fervor. The Passover, commemorating Israel's liberation from Egyptian bondage, was a particularly fitting occasion for such acts of clemency. From a Roman perspective, this custom may have been a pragmatic approach to placate the subjugated Jewish population, reducing the risk of unrest during a period when Jerusalem was teeming with pilgrims. The release of a prisoner could be seen as an act of mercy, aligning with the themes of redemption and freedom celebrated during Passover. Theological Implications The release of Barabbas instead of Jesus carries profound theological significance. It serves as a poignant illustration of the substitutionary atonement central to Christian doctrine. Jesus, the innocent Lamb of God, was condemned in place of a guilty man, symbolizing the greater spiritual truth of Christ's sacrifice for the sins of humanity. This event underscores the themes of justice, mercy, and redemption that permeate the Gospel message. In summary, the release of prisoners at feasts, particularly during Passover, is a practice deeply embedded in the historical and cultural milieu of the New Testament era. It provides a backdrop for the pivotal events of Jesus' trial and crucifixion, offering rich insights into the interplay of political, social, and theological dynamics of the time. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 27:15-17Now at that feast the governor was wont to release to the people a prisoner, whom they would. Nave's Topical Index Mark 15:6 Luke 23:17 John 18:39 Library Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ... On the Words, Crucified and Buried. Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... The Iranian Conquest Resources How do I get a passion for Jesus? | GotQuestions.orgWhen and how was Judah conquered by the Babylonians? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that “by His stripes we are healed”? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Prisoners of War by Divine Command Prisoners of War: Consolations For Prisoners of War: Put to Death Prisoners of War: Thumbs and Toes Cut off Prisoners: Confined in the Court of the Palace Prisoners: Confined in the House of the Captain of the Guard Prisoners: Confined in the House of the Scribe Prisoners: Guards Responsible For Prisoners: Kindness To by Felix Prisoners: Kindness To by Julius, the Centurion Prisoners: Kindness To by the Philippian Jailer to Paul Prisoners: Kindness To by the Prison Guard to Jeremiah Prisoners: Permitted to Make Defense Prisoners: Severe Hardships of, Mitigated Prisoners: Sustained on Bread and Water of Affliction Prisoners: To be Visited and Ministered To Prisoners: Tortured to Extort Self-Incriminating Testimony Related Terms Fellow-prisoners (1 Occurrence) |
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