Bible Dictionaries
Annas

Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible

ANNAS . 1 . High priest from a.d. 6 to 15, an astute and powerful ecclesiastical statesman. At the time of our Lord’s trial he was merely high priest emeritus , and his son-in-law Caiaphas, the acting high priest, presided ex officio over the meeting of the Sanhedrin ( John 18:24 , Matthew 26:67 ). Nevertheless, since the high priest emeritus retained not only his title (cf. John 18:15-16; John 18:19; John 18:22 , Acts 4:6 ), but all his obligations and many of his prerogatives, it is not surprising that the masterful Annas took an active and independent part in the proceedings. After Jesus’ arrest at dead of night, ‘they led him to Annas first’ ( John 18:13 ). The Sanhedrin might not meet until daybreak, and the interval seemed well employed in a preliminary examination of the prisoner by the skilful veteran ( John 18:12; John 18:19-23 ). Subsequently be took part also in the trial of Peter and John ( Acts 4:6 ). 2 . Esther 9:32 Esther 9:32 = Ezra 10:31 Harim .

David Smith.

Bibliography Information
Hastings, James. Entry for 'Annas'. Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible. https://www.studylight.org/​dictionaries/​eng/​hdb/​a/annas.html. 1909.