Barabbas in Fausset's Bible Dictionary

("son of the father.") A contrast to the true Son of the Father! The Jews asked the murderous taker of life to be given as a favor to them (it being customary to release one prisoner at the passover), and killed the Prince of life! (Acts 3:14- 15.) A robber (John 18:40) who had committed murder in an insurrection (Mark 15:7) and was cast into prison (compare Matthew 27:15-26). (See PILATE for the probable reason of the Jews' keenness for his release.)