Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • Pontius Pilate: The Roman prefect (governor) of the Roman province of Judaea from approximately AD 26/27 to 36/37. He is historically and biblically known for presiding at the trial of Jesus and ordering his crucifixion.

Examples of Usage

• Proper noun:
  • According to the Gospels, Pontius Pilate questioned Jesus before his execution.
  • The historical accounts of Pontius Pilate come from sources like Josephus and Tacitus, in addition to the New Testament.

Advanced Usage

• "To wash one's hands of something": This idiom is directly derived from the biblical account of Pontius Pilate, symbolizing a declaration of innocence or an attempt to absolve oneself of responsibility.
  • The manager washed his hands of the project after the initial failures.
• "Pilate's question": A reference to the question "What is truth?" that Pontius Pilate asked Jesus (John 18:38), often used in philosophical or rhetorical contexts concerning the nature of truth.

Variants and Related Words

• Pilate: A common shortened form used to refer to Pontius Pilate.
  • Pilate is a complex figure in history and theology.

Synonyms

• The Roman Prefect of Judaea: A formal, descriptive synonym.
• The Governor: Used in biblical and historical contexts to identify his role.

Related Phrases

• "Suffered under Pontius Pilate": A phrase from the Christian Apostles' and Nicene Creeds, affirming the historical reality of Jesus's crucifixion during Pilate's governorship.

Noun

1. the Roman procurator of Judea who ordered that Jesus be crucified (died in AD 36)