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fighter,” an insurrectionist, and the leader of a group of Jewish
patriots seeking to drive out the disliked Romans. Barabbas was
the ‘kind of messiah’ whom the Jews wanted to save them by the
power of violence, revolts and rebellions. The Bible further tells
us that Barabbas was also a ‘robber’ (John 18:40) and ‘notorious’
too (Mathew 27:16).
Barabbas was guilty as charged by the Roman
government. Barabbas was condemned because of his own sin
such as insurrection, murder, robbery and thievery. He was
waiting for the punishment of death according to the law of the
land. His focus might have been the freedom of the Nation, but
the ways he used was criminal. However, the mob opted for
Barabbas. Mark 15: 11-15 tells, “But the chief priests stirred up
the crowd, so that he should rather release Barabbas to them.
Pilate answered and said to them again, "But the chief priests
stirred up the crowd to have him release Barabbas for them
instead. Pilate spoke to them again, “Then what do you wish me
to do with the man you call the King of the Jews?” They shouted
back, “Crucify him!” Pilate asked them, “Why, what evil has
he done?” But they shouted all the more, “Crucify him!” So,
Pilate, wishing to satisfy the crowd, released Barabbas for them;
and after flogging Jesus, he handed him over to be crucified."
Barabbas was set free because Jesus died in his place.

The question is still remaining. Why Barabbas? Was
he notable person? Did he have any influence on the mob or
with any other leaders or high priests? Was he in first turn to be
released as per the custom of pardoning? Things are not much
clear. Since his release was demanded by the people as part of
conspiracy made by the imperialistic and empire domination,
he might be a ‘person in turn’ who could be released first in the
name of custom as per the law and order of Roman government.
The episode of Barabbas is related to the Christ event. The
importance of this event is in the light of Christ’s crucifixion.
Jesus’ substitution was a part of salvific action and mission of
Jesus’ Christ ‘to stand and be substitute for others’ well-being’.

Pilate was sincerely looking for a way out to release
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Lenten Meditations Re - Imaging People