Ananias (Acts 23:2)

Gender male Type Person Greek Ἁνανίας

A Jewish high priest mentioned in Acts 23:2 in the New Testament.

About Ananias (Acts 23:2)

A high priest who presided over the Sanhedrin (the Jewish religious court) when the apostle Paul was arrested and questioned by that council in Jerusalem. This happened at the end of Paul’s third missionary journey (Acts 22:30–23:10).

Ananias was one of the witnesses who testified against Paul in Caesarea. Paul was on trial before Felix, the Roman governor (Acts 24:1). This Ananias was appointed high priest by Herod Agrippa II in AD 48. He served until AD 59.

The Jewish historian Josephus wrote that he was wealthy, selfish, and corrupt. He was known for his collaboration with the Romans. He was also known for being harsh and cruel. He was hated by the Jews who revolted against Rome. He was killed by them when war with Rome broke out in AD 66.

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Key References

Acts 23:2

At this, the high priest Ananias ordered those standing near Paul to strike him on the mouth.

Acts 24:1

Five days later the high priest Ananias came down with some elders and a lawyer named Tertullus, who presented to the governor their case against Paul.

All Scripture References (2)

Acts (2)
Acts 23:2

At this, the high priest Ananias ordered those standing near Paul to strike him on the mouth.

Acts 24:1

Five days later the high priest Ananias came down with some elders and a lawyer named Tertullus, who presented to the governor their case against Paul.