In the New Testament , a prisoner or criminal freed to please the mob before the crucifixion of Jesus .
Described as a thief or an insurrectionist, Barabbas is mentioned in all four Passover , Pontius {{link=Pilate, Pontius">Pilate suggested pardoning Jesus, but the crowd protested and demanded the release of Barabbas. Pilate gave in and sent Jesus to his death.