Ἄννας

Annas

Definition

Ἄννας refers to Annas, a prominent Jewish high priest in Jerusalem during the early first century AD. He served as high priest from AD 6–15, but even after being deposed by the Romans, he retained significant religious and political influence, as seen when he is listed alongside his son-in-law Caiaphas during the ministries of John the Baptist and Jesus (Luke 3:2). In the Gospel of John, Jesus is first brought to Annas for a preliminary interrogation after his arrest (John 18:13), before being sent to the official high priest Caiaphas (John 18:24). The book of Acts also notes his presence during the questioning of Peter and John (Acts 4:6), underscoring his continued authority within the Sanhedrin.

Biblical Usage

The name Ἄννας is used exclusively as a proper noun for the historical figure Annas in the New Testament. It appears in four verses across three books: Luke, John, and Acts. In Luke 3:2, it establishes the historical and religious context of John the Baptist's ministry. In John 18:13 and 18:24, it details the sequence of Jesus' illegal nighttime trials. In Acts 4:6, it identifies Annas as part of the ruling council that opposed the apostles. The usage consistently portrays him as a key authority figure in the events leading to Jesus' crucifixion and the early persecution of the church.

Etymology

The name Ἄννας is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name חָנַן (Ḥanan), meaning 'gracious' or 'merciful.' It is not derived from the Greek prefix ἀ- (meaning 'not' or 'without') as previously suggested; that was an error. The name appears in various forms in the Old Testament (e.g., Hanani, Hananiah) and was common in Second Temple Judaism. The Greek form Ἄννας simply adapts this Semitic name for a Greek-speaking audience.

Semantic Range

Annas represents the entrenched religious establishment that rejected Jesus as the Messiah. His involvement in Jesus' trial highlights the corruption and political collaboration of the high-priestly family with Roman rule. Understanding his historical role enriches the reading of the Passion narratives, showing the fulfillment of prophecies about the suffering of the righteous at the hands of unjust leaders (e.g., Psalm 2:1-2). He exemplifies the 'rulers of this age' who, in their blindness, crucified the Lord of glory (1 Corinthians 2:8).

In the first-century Jewish world, the high priesthood was a political appointment made by Roman authorities, not solely a hereditary religious office. Annas, though deposed, remained the patriarch of a powerful family that controlled the high priesthood for decades. His continued title 'high priest' reflects the cultural understanding that the office held lifelong honor and influence. His family was also known for its wealth and corruption, controlling the temple market, which provides context for Jesus' cleansing of the temple (e.g., John 2:13-16).

Καϊάφας (Caiaphas, G2533) — Annas's son-in-law and the officially reigning high priest who presided over the Sanhedrin trial of Jesus. Ἀρχιερεύς (archiereus, G749) — The general Greek term for 'high priest,' used for both Annas and Caiaphas in the biblical texts, denoting their office and authority.

Word Details

Scripture References