Who was Caiaphas?

High Priest of Israel

The story of Caiaphas

Caiaphas - High Priest of Israel
Caiaphas - High Priest of Israel
High Priest of Israel

Caiaphas was the high priest of the Jewish temple in Jerusalem during the time of Jesus' ministry. He is known for being the person who presided over the trial of Jesus and condemned him to death by crucifixion. Caiaphas was appointed as the high priest by the Roman governor of Judea, Pontius Pilate. In the New Testament, he is portrayed as playing a key role in the conspiracy to put Jesus to death. Despite his role in the crucifixion of Jesus, Caiaphas remains an important figure in Jewish history, and is mentioned in several biblical passages, including the Gospel of John and the Acts of the Apostles.

Name meaning

The name "Caiaphas" is of Aramaic origin, and it is primarily known due to its association with a significant historical and religious figure: Joseph Caiaphas, the Jewish high priest who, according to the New Testament, played a key role in the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The etymology of the name "Caiaphas" isn't clearly defined, but it is thought to be derived from the Aramaic word "Qayyafa," which might mean "rock" or "depression." While exact meanings can vary, names from this period often carried connotations of strength or permanence. Caiaphas is remembered as a historical figure who exercised considerable religious and political influence in his time.

Name origin

Hebrew

Role

High Priest of Israel

First mention

Matthew 26:3

Appearances in the Bible

9 mentions

Caiaphas in the Bible

Explore all 5 chapters where Caiaphas appears

Matthew

Chapter 26

The Last Supper and Jesus' Betrayal

Jesus is betrayed by Judas, arrested, and brought to trial.

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Luke

Chapter 3

The Ministry of John the Baptist

John the Baptist prepares the way for Jesus, who begins His ministry with a baptism and the descent of the Holy Spirit.

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John

Chapter 11

The Raising of Lazarus

Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead and teaches about the resurrection and the life.

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John

Chapter 18

The Arrest of Jesus

Jesus is betrayed by Judas, arrested, and brought to trial.

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The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 4

The Arrest and Release of Peter and John

The apostles are arrested again, but an angel frees them from prison and they continue to preach.

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