The answer is: Annas

John 18:13 - Although in Matthew's gospel record it is said that he was led away to Caiaphas, John gives us a little extra information. Annas for whatever reason was still recognised as a high priest (see Luke 3:2)

When you delve into the arrest and subsequent trials of Jesus, the names of Annas and Caiaphas ring loudly in the narratives, particularly in the Gospel of John. It’s an interesting detail that Annas, often referred to as the former high priest, had not officially held the title since being deposed in AD 15—but the cultural reverberations of his influence lingered. His five sons and son-in-law, Caiaphas, maintained positions of power within the priesthood, creating an elite hub of authority. It's as if Annas was the old guard, still commanding respect and control in a deeply polarized environment.

Fun fact: Annas’ prominence appears to echo the complex nature of power dynamics at play during this time. The Sanhedrin, the ruling council, blended temple authority and political ambition, creating tension and intrigue.

Also noteworthy is John’s portrayal that emphasizes the personal nature of the injustices faced by Jesus; not just a simple political event but instead layered with personal animosities and ambitions. The light that John's Gospel sheds on these behind-the-scenes decisions gives us a uniquely intimate glimpse into the events leading to the crucifixion—a moment heavily ensconced in both religious duty and political necessity.

So, while we may readily associate Caiaphas with the actual trial, understanding Annas’s role enhances our awareness of the riveting, multifaceted drama that unfolded in those final hours of Jesus' earthly life. It’s a rich tapestry woven from threads of human ambition, spiritual crisis, and historical consequence.