Life-Giving Words of Hope & Encouragement

The story of Jesus and Barabbas is one of the most striking moments in the New Testament. It is a moment filled with tension, irony, and profound theological insight. At its heart lies an unusual choice offered to the people of Jerusalem: the release of either Jesus of Nazareth, the sinless Messiah, or Barabbas, a known criminal. But what many may not realize is that the names of these two figures carry deep symbolic meaning—and possibly an even more startling connection.

The name “Jesus” is derived from the Hebrew “Yeshua” (Joshua), meaning “The Lord saves” or “Yahweh is salvation.” This name encapsulates the mission of Jesus of Nazareth: to bring salvation to humanity through His life, death, and resurrection.

Barabbas, on the other hand, is a compound name in Aramaic: “Bar” means “son of,” and “Abba” means “father.” Thus, “Barabbas” translates to “son of the father.” At first glance, this name seems ordinary, but in the context of the story, it holds a deep and ironic significance.

Some historical texts and scholars, including insights highlighted in Jonathan Cahn’s writings, suggest that Barabbas’ full name may have also been “Jesus Barabbas.” Early manuscript traditions, such as those found in the writings of Origen, indicate that Barabbas’ first name might have been omitted in later versions of the text due to its potential to cause confusion or discomfort among early Christians. If this is true, the crowd’s choice between “Jesus of Nazareth” and “Jesus Barabbas” becomes even more symbolic.

Here we see a fascinating juxtaposition: two men named “Jesus” representing two very different paths. Jesus of Nazareth embodies divine salvation, peace, and submission to God’s will. Jesus Barabbas represents rebellion, violence, and human efforts to achieve freedom through force. The people’s choice reflects the broader human struggle to discern between the way of God and the way of the world.

The decision presented to the crowd—to release Jesus or Barabbas—serves as a profound allegory of the Gospel. In a literal sense, Barabbas deserved death for his crimes, while Jesus was innocent. Yet, Jesus took the place of Barabbas, and by extension, He takes the place of all humanity.

This moment captures the essence of substitutionary atonement: the innocent Lamb of God taking on the punishment deserved by the guilty. Barabbas, the “son of the father,” is set free because the true “Son of the Father” willingly goes to the cross. It is a vivid picture of grace and redemption.

The story of Jesus and Barabbas also finds an intriguing parallel in the Jewish Day of Atonement, Yom Kippur. During this sacred observance, two goats were chosen: one to be sacrificed to the Lord and the other, known as the scapegoat, to bear the sins of the people and be sent away into the wilderness (Leviticus 16:7-10). Similarly, in the narrative of Jesus and Barabbas, we see a symbolic fulfillment of this practice. Jesus, the spotless Lamb of God, is sacrificed for the sins of humanity, while Barabbas, the guilty one, is set free, much like the scapegoat. This profound imagery reinforces the idea of substitutionary atonement and highlights how Jesus’ sacrifice fulfills the foreshadowing found in Old Testament rituals.

Barabbas is described in the Gospels as a “notorious prisoner” (Matthew 27:16), involved in insurrection and murder (Mark 15:7; Luke 23:19). He was likely a zealot, part of a Jewish revolutionary group that sought to overthrow Roman rule through violent means. The people’s choice of Barabbas over Jesus reflects their misplaced hopes for a political Messiah who would lead a military rebellion rather than a spiritual Savior who would deliver them from sin.

By choosing Barabbas, the crowd revealed their rejection of Jesus’ message and mission. They chose a man who symbolized worldly power and rebellion over the Prince of Peace. This choice mirrors the broader human tendency to seek salvation through earthly means rather than through faith and submission to God.

The story of Jesus and Barabbas remains deeply relevant today. In many ways, humanity continues to face the same choice: to follow the way of Christ or the way of the world. The names of Jesus and Barabbas remind us of the stakes involved. Will we trust in “Yahweh’s salvation,” or will we seek to be our own saviors, relying on human strength and wisdom?

Moreover, the idea that Barabbas’ full name might have been “Jesus Barabbas” underscores the importance of discernment. Outward appearances can be deceiving. Just as the crowd had to choose between two men named Jesus, we must carefully evaluate the voices and leaders we follow, ensuring that they align with God’s truth rather than worldly desires.

The account of Jesus and Barabbas is more than a historical event; it is a profound theological drama that speaks to the heart of the human condition. The meaning of their names—”The Lord saves” and “son of the father”—and the possibility that both shared the name “Jesus” add layers of depth to the story. It challenges us to consider the nature of our choices and the kind of salvation we seek.

Ultimately, the story points us to the incredible grace of God, who sent His Son to take our place, bearing the punishment we deserved so that we, like Barabbas, might be set free. It is a reminder of the power of God’s love and the transformative nature of the Gospel. I hope this has been enlightening, and I pray you have a blessed day!