Brief Overview of Ἄννας (Strong’s G452)

The Greek name Ἄννας (Annas) refers to a specific individual mentioned in the New Testament. Annas was a high priest who is notably mentioned in the Gospels of John and Luke. He is depicted as having been involved in the trial of Jesus. In biblical contexts, the name Annas is associated with this historical and religious figure and does not have additional meanings beyond its identification of this person.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance: Strong’s defines Ἄννας (G452) as “Annas,” identifying him as a high priest mentioned in the New Testament. He was the father-in-law of Caiaphas and played a role in the interrogation of Jesus before his trial. The entry does not elaborate beyond identifying him as this historical figure.
2. Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich (BDAG) Greek-English Lexicon: BDAG provides a detailed entry for Ἄννας, noting that he was a high priest who held the office from around 6-15 CE. The lexicon emphasizes his role as the father-in-law of Caiaphas and his involvement in the events surrounding Jesus’ trial. BDAG describes him as a significant figure in the New Testament narrative and provides additional context about his role and the period in which he lived.
3. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon: LSJ identifies Ἄννας as Annas, the high priest mentioned in the New Testament. The lexicon provides historical context, noting that he was deposed by the Romans but retained significant influence. The entry highlights his role in the trial of Jesus and his position as the father-in-law of Caiaphas. The LSJ entry is focused on his historical role and does not provide other meanings.
4. Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon: Thayer’s gives an entry for Ἄννας, identifying him as “Annas,” the high priest involved in the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus. It mentions that Annas was the father-in-law of Caiaphas and provides context for his involvement in the Gospel accounts. Thayer’s entry confirms his role in the New Testament but does not extend beyond this historical figure.

In summary, Ἄννας (Annas) is recognized as a proper name referring to a high priest in the New Testament, particularly noted for his involvement in Jesus’ trial. All major lexicons—Strong’s Concordance, BDAG, LSJ, and Thayer’s—confirm his historical role and contextualize him within the biblical narrative. There are no additional meanings beyond identifying him as this specific figure.