03.06.22 A.D. 18 – 36/37 Josephus Bar Caiaphas Appointed High Priest

03.06.22 Josephus bar Caiaphas Appointed High Priest

Bill Heinrich  -  Jan 14, 2016  -  Comments Off on 03.06.22 Josephus bar Caiaphas Appointed High Priest

03.06.22 A.D. 18 – 36/37 Josephus bar Caiaphas Appointed High Priest

The Roman Prefect Valerius Gratus appointed Josephus bar Caiaphas to the highest position in Judaism – high priest in the temple.  However while Caiaphas, the son-in-law of Annas (Jn. 18:13), held the priestly title, Annas was still considered influential in religious matters because the position was as much of a social honor as an official office, even after retirement.[1]  Like Annas, Caiaphas was known for his extensive commercial interests and profiteering.[2]  The fact that Caiaphas was replaced shortly after the removal of Pontius Pilate was no accident.  A change of rulership often brought with it a change in priesthood. Jesus lived at a time when corruption in the temple was at its worst in Jewish history.

[1]. Neusner and Green, eds., Dictionary of Judaism. 110.

[2]. Wilson, The False Trials. 26-27.



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