How Do You Spell BARABBAS?

Pronunciation: [baɹˈabəz] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "Barabbas" is interesting from a phonetic perspective. It is often pronounced as /bəˈræbəs/ or "buh-RAB-uhss" in American English. This is because the two "b" sounds in the word create a voiced bilabial plosive, which adds emphasis and clarity to the pronunciation. In the original Greek, the word was spelled Βαραββᾶς, which can be transliterated as "Barabbas" or "Barabas". The spelling, therefore, depends on which transliteration system is used.

BARABBAS Meaning and Definition

  1. Barabbas is a proper noun mentioned in the New Testament of the Christian Bible. It refers to a criminal and insurrectionist who was released by the Roman governor Pontius Pilate instead of Jesus Christ during the events surrounding Jesus' trial and crucifixion. According to the Gospel accounts, Barabbas was charged with inciting a rebellion and committing murder. The name "Barabbas" is derived from two Hebrew words: "bar" meaning "son" and "abba" meaning "father," which translates as "son of the father" or "son of a certain man."

    In its broader sense, "Barabbas" is often used metaphorically to represent an individual who escapes punishment or judgment due to circumstances or the intervention of others. It symbolizes the concept of someone being pardoned or saved while another person takes their place or suffers in their stead. The story of Barabbas is significant to Christian theology as it highlights the sacrificial nature of Jesus' crucifixion and the substitutionary atonement he provided for humanity's sins. It also serves as a contrasting juxtaposition between a guilty criminal being released and an innocent man being condemned.

    The narrative of Barabbas has inspired various works of literature, drama, and art, serving as a powerful symbol of divine grace, redemption, and the complexities of justice and mercy.

Common Misspellings for BARABBAS

Etymology of BARABBAS

The word "Barabbas" is derived from the Aramaic expression "bar-Abba", which translates to "son of the father". "Bar" means "son" in Aramaic, while "Abba" means "father". It is believed that the name "Barabbas" was a common expression during the time of Jesus and was possibly used to differentiate between individuals with similar names. In the New Testament of the Bible, Barabbas is the name of the prisoner who was released instead of Jesus Christ during the trial.

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