Jesus’ Execution

Jesus was found guilty of blasphemy and awaited to be sentenced. The religious leaders handed the responsibility of sentencing over to the local council. The local leader, named Pilate, was responsible for passing sentence but was reluctant. He was more aware than anyone of the delicate power balance between Israel and Rome and knew that the death of anyone popular movements leader could be the call to action for the more militant Israeli’s. After talking to Jesus, Pilate discussed with the religious leaders that he felt he was innocent. Perhaps because he did believe it, or perhaps so as not to have to pass sentence. The religious leaders insisted he respect their legal system and uphold the judgment. Pilate tries to compromise.

Aware that Passover was a likely trigger point for revolution, Rome had previously instigated a tradition of releasing a Jewish political prisoner to keep the peace. Pilate decided that rather than release a political prisoner, he would offer the Jewish locals a choice. Pilate offered the choice that either he would release Jesus of Nazareth, or a notoriously violent criminal coincidentally also called Jesus (Jesus Barabbas). Feeling fairly certain that the local community wouldn’t willingly release a convicted murderer, Pilate felt certain this was a win/win. The Jewish legal system is respected and their judgment is upheld but the martyrdom of a movement leader is avoided.

Influenced by the local religious leaders, the crowd surprised Pilate by calling for the release of Jesus Barabbas. The will of the people prevailed. Pilates hands were tied and he sentenced Jesus to be beaten and then executed. Jesus is taken away and beaten.

At 9 AM Jesus is nailed to a cross. He is recorded to have started reciting an ancient poem whilst on the cross. “God, God . . . my God! Why did you dump me miles from nowhere?” (Read the full poem here). Perhaps most heartbreaking of all, Jesus’ mother Mary is recorded as being present at his execution.

Jesus died 6 hours later at 3 PM. Despite his many significant wounds, it’s most likely that his cause of death was a form of heart failure. Jesus’ body is laid to rest in a tomb and guards are placed to dissuade any interference from his followers.