### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Kaïáphas**, represented by `{{G2533}}`, is the name of an Israelite defined as "the dell; Caiaphas." This name appears **9 times** across **9 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively identifying the high priest who played a crucial role in the events leading to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2533}}` is consistently identified as the **high priest** `{{G749}}` during the ministry of John the Baptist and Jesus ([[Luke 3:2]], [[John 11:49]]). The religious leaders, including the chief priests, **scribes** `{{G1122}}`, and **elders** `{{G4245}}`, **assembled together** `{{G4863}}` at the palace of Caiaphas [[Matthew 26:3]]. Following His arrest, Jesus was first led to **Annas** `{{G452}}`, the father-in-law of Caiaphas, who then sent Him bound to Caiaphas the high priest ([[John 18:13]], [[John 18:24]]). It was from Caiaphas that Jesus was led to the hall of judgment [[John 18:28]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to contextualize the role and environment of Caiaphas:
* `{{G749}}` **archiereús** (chief (high) priest): This title is attached to Caiaphas in nearly every mention, defining his position of supreme religious authority in Israel ([[Matthew 26:57]], [[Acts 4:6]]).
* `{{G452}}` **Ánnas** (Annas): This individual is named alongside Caiaphas, jointly holding the high priesthood [[Luke 3:2]]. As his father-in-law, their family connection solidified the power of the high-priestly **kindred** `{{G1085}}` ([[John 18:13]], [[Acts 4:6]]).
* `{{G4823}}` **symbouleúō** (to give (or take) advice jointly): This term describes the action Caiaphas took when he gave counsel to the Jews that it was expedient for one man to die for the people [[John 18:14]].
* `{{G4851}}` **symphérō** (to conduce; especially advantage): This word captures the essence of the counsel given by Caiaphas, who declared it **expedient** that one man should die for the **people** `{{G2992}}` ([[John 11:49]], [[John 18:14]]).
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{G2533}}` is concentrated in his official capacity during the trial of Jesus.
* **Center of Opposition:** As the ruling **high priest** `{{G749}}`, Caiaphas's palace was the location where the plot against Jesus was formalized by the religious leaders of the **people** `{{G2992}}` [[Matthew 26:3]].
* **Instrument of Judgment:** He was a key figure in the legal process against Jesus. After being questioned by Annas, Jesus was sent to Caiaphas, where the **scribes** `{{G1122}}` and **elders** `{{G4245}}` were assembled ([[Matthew 26:57]], [[John 18:24]]).
* **Unwitting Prophecy:** Caiaphas is remembered for giving the counsel that it was **expedient** `{{G4851}}` for one man to die for the people, a political statement that prophetically articulated the purpose of Christ's sacrifice ([[John 11:49]], [[John 18:14]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2533}}` Caiaphas is a pivotal figure in the Gospel accounts. He represents the highest level of Jewish religious authority at the time of Christ's death. His name is inextricably linked to the assembly that conspired against Jesus, the formal proceedings of His trial, and the pragmatic counsel that rationalized His death for the sake of the nation.
TRV