Barabbas

Auf das Fest aber

Recitative
No. 45a-bpart_53
Evangelist
Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a prisoner, whom they would. And they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas. Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them:
Pilate
Whom will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus which is called Christ?
Evangelist
For he knew that for envy they had delivered him. When he was set down on the judgment seat, his wife sent unto him, saying: Pilate's Wife: Have thou nothing to do with that just man: for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of him.
Evangelist
But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask Barabbas, and destroy Jesus. The governor answered and said unto them:
Pilate
Whether of the twain will ye that I release unto you?
Evangelist
They said:
Chorus
Barabbas!

Modern adaptation

Pilate offers to release one prisoner: Barabbas or Jesus? Pilate's wife warns him because of a dream. But the priests incite the crowd. When Pilate asks 'Who shall I release?', the crowd screams: 'Barabbas!'

Chapters

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