The arrest and trial of Jesus of Nazareth describe the sequence of events that, according to the Christian Gospels, led from his arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane to his condemnation by Roman authorities and eventual crucifixion. These episodes immediately follow the Last Supper in the narrative and occupy a pivotal place in Christian teaching, liturgy and historical inquiry. Different New Testament books give overlapping but sometimes divergent accounts of persons, charges and legal procedures.

Sequence of events

The canonical narrative can be outlined in several stages. In Gethsemane Jesus is said to have been betrayed by Judas Iscariot and seized by a party of temple guards and officials. He was then brought before the Jewish council (often called the Sanhedrin) where questions about his identity and teaching were examined. During this period the disciple Peter is reported to have denied knowing Jesus three times.

  • Initial arrest in the garden and betrayal by Judas.
  • Preliminary hearing before Jewish authorities; charges of blasphemy are reported in some accounts.
  • Transfer to the Roman governor (Pontius Pilate) because the power to impose capital punishment lay with Rome.
  • Additional hearings (for example before Herod Antipas in Luke) and the final sentence ordering crucifixion.

Scholars note several legal and chronological puzzles. Gospel writers reflect different emphases and occasional discrepancies about when and how hearings occurred, who spoke and what specific charges were used. The involvement of both Jewish and Roman authorities reflects the political realities of Roman-occupied Judea, where local leaders could arrest and detain but Rome retained capital jurisdiction. Historians debate the historical details while broadly recognizing a core sequence that led to Jesus' execution.

Theological and cultural importance

Within Christian theology these events are interpreted as the necessary pathway to the crucifixion and resurrection, central to doctrines of atonement and redemption. The arrest and trials are commemorated in Good Friday observances and through devotional practices such as the Stations of the Cross. Artists, musicians and writers across centuries have treated these scenes as subjects for reflection on justice, betrayal, courage and suffering.

Differences among the Gospel accounts

Notable differences between the four Gospels include the timing of certain hearings, the precise wording of questions and confessions, and the role played by Jewish leaders versus Pilate. These variations have prompted theological reflection and scholarly analysis about sources, oral traditions and authorial intent. For context on how this episode fits into Christian narratives, see general works on Christianity.