Character Profile: Pontius Pilate

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In this video Marc Turnage reexamines Pilate's character based on ancient literary sources, including the New Testament, and archaeological finds.

Helpless pawn or ruthless villain? The Roman prefect of Judea, Pontius Pilate, is famous because of his role in the New Testament Gospels. Pilate’s name is even mentioned in ancient Christian creeds. Nevertheless, in many Christian retellings of the story of Jesus’ crucifixion Pilate’s role is often portrayed incorrectly. In this video Marc Turnage reexamines Pilate’s character based on ancient literary sources, including the New Testament, and archaeological finds. In doing so, Turnage offers a new take on a familiar character.


Limestone inscription from Caesarea in which Pilate dedicates a temple to the Roman Emperor Tiberius. Photographed at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem by Joshua N. Tilton.

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  • Marc Turnage

    Marc Turnage

    Marc is the CEO and founder of Biblical Expeditions and BibleX. He holds an MA in Ancient Judaism and Christian Origins from Jerusalem University College, and a PhD from the Land of Israel Studies department at Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel. He has 25+…
    [Read more about author]

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