Annas (Ἃννας, Hannas). A Jewish high priest mentioned in several places in the New Testament (Luke 3:2, John 18:24, Acts 4:6) who was also the father-in-law of Caiaphas (John 18:13).

Annas was appointed high priest sometime around ad 6 by Quirinius, who was the governor of Syria. He served in this office until ca. ad 14–15, when he was removed by Valerius Gratus. Six of his family members or descendants later served as high priest, the most notable of whom were his son Eleazar and his son-in-law Caiaphas, also known as Joseph, who held the office from ad 18–36 (Matt 26:3–5).

Even after Annas’ official role as high priest ended, he apparently still wielded considerable authority and influence. This is seen most clearly in his presence at the trial of Jesus, when it was in fact Caiaphas who was officially presiding (John 18:12–24). Annas—along with the Sadducees, other priests, and teachers of the law—was also involved in the investigation, questioning, and persecution of the early church in the book of Acts (Acts 4:1–22).