### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Pilâtos**, represented by `{{G4091}}`, is of Latin origin and means **close-pressed, i.e. firm**. It appears **55 times** across **53 unique verses** in the Bible, referring to the Roman official, Pilate.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4091}}` identifies the Roman **governor** of Judaea, Pontius Pilate ([[Luke 3:1]], [[Matthew 27:2]]). He is the central Roman authority during the trial of Jesus. Jesus is delivered to him by the chief priests and elders [[Mark 15:1]]. Pilate questions Jesus directly, asking, "Art thou the King of the Jews?" [[Luke 23:3]]. Despite repeatedly finding no **fault** in Jesus ([[John 18:38]], [[Luke 23:4]]), he ultimately yields to the demands of the people. In a symbolic act, he washes his hands before the multitude, declaring himself **innocent** of Jesus' blood [[Matthew 27:24]]. He releases **Barabbas** and delivers Jesus to be scourged and crucified ([[Mark 15:15]], [[John 19:1]]). His involvement continues as he writes the **title** for the cross [[John 19:19]] and grants Joseph of Arimathaea permission to take Jesus' **body** for burial [[Mark 15:43]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the authority and context surrounding Pilate's actions:
* `{{G2232}}` **hēgemṓn** (a leader, i.e. chief person... of a province): This title is directly applied to Pilate, identifying his official role as the Roman **governor** [[Matthew 27:2]].
* `{{G1849}}` **exousía** (privilege... mastery... delegated influence): Pilate explicitly claims to have this **power** or **authority** to either crucify or release Jesus [[John 19:10]].
* `{{G968}}` **bēma** (a step... a tribunal): This refers to the **judgment seat** where Pilate sat when he brought Jesus forth to the crowd at a place called the Pavement [[John 19:13]].
* `{{G2919}}` **krínō** (to distinguish, i.e. decide (mentally or judicially)): This word describes the act of judgment. Pilate was determined (judged) to release Jesus, but the people denied him [[Acts 3:13]]. He also told the Jews to **judge** Jesus according to their own law [[John 18:31]].
### Theological Significance
The role of `{{G4091}}` carries significant theological weight, particularly in the encounter between worldly power and divine truth.
* **Clash of Kingdoms:** Pilate represents the authority of Rome and Caesar. His interrogation of Jesus about being a **king** [[John 18:37]] sets the stage for a conflict between earthly and heavenly kingdoms. The chief priests exploit this by claiming, "whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh against Caesar" [[John 19:12]], ultimately declaring they have "no king but Caesar" [[John 19:15]].
* **Witness to Innocence:** Despite his position as a Roman governor, Pilate repeatedly declares Jesus' innocence, stating, "I find no fault in this man" [[Luke 23:4]]. His question, "What is truth?" [[John 18:38]], comes just before he proclaims to the Jews, "I find in him no fault at all." He even washes his hands, calling Jesus a **just person** [[Matthew 27:24]].
* **Instrument in Divine Sovereignty:** The narrative presents Pilate as an actor within a larger divine plan. He, along with Herod and the people of Israel, were "gathered together" against God's anointed child, Jesus [[Acts 4:27]]. The people denied Jesus in Pilate's presence, even when he was "determined to let him go," an event that ultimately led to God glorifying His Son [[Acts 3:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4091}}` **Pilâtos** is more than a historical name; it represents the pivotal intersection of Roman political power and the trial of Jesus Christ. As the Roman **governor**, Pilate's indecision, his repeated declarations of Jesus' innocence, and his ultimate capitulation to the crowd's demands are central to the passion narrative. His interactions highlight the clash between earthly and divine authority and demonstrate how even worldly rulers can become instruments in the fulfillment of God's sovereign purposes.
TRV