Who is nicodemus in the new testament

Nicodemus is a prominent figure in the New Testament of the Bible, specifically in the Gospel of John (John 3:1-21). He is a Pharisee and a member of the Jewish ruling council, known as the Sanhedrin.

Nicodemus is first introduced in John 3:1-2, where it is written that he came to Jesus at night, seeking to learn more about him. This is significant because, as a Pharisee, Nicodemus would have been expected to follow the strict laws of Judaism, which prohibited socializing with Gentiles (non-Jews) or engaging in activities that might be considered impure.

Jesus' response to Nicodemus is famous for its enigmatic and paradoxical nature. Jesus tells Nicodemus that he must be born again (or "born from above") in order to see the kingdom of God (John 3:3-7). This phrase is often interpreted as a reference to spiritual rebirth, rather than physical birth.

Throughout the rest of the chapter, Jesus and Nicodemus engage in a conversation that is both cryptic and profound. Jesus speaks about the need for spiritual transformation, using imagery and metaphors that are difficult to understand. Nicodemus, however, seems to be struggling to grasp the meaning of Jesus' words, and Jesus responds by using even more enigmatic language.

Despite his initial confusion, Nicodemus is drawn to Jesus and becomes one of his followers. In John 7:50-51, Nicodemus is mentioned again, this time as a witness to Jesus' teachings and miracles. Later, in John 19:39, Nicodemus is one of the Jewish leaders who comes to Jesus' tomb to prepare his body for burial.

Nicodemus is often seen as a symbol of the Pharisees who came to believe in Jesus, and his story is often used to illustrate the theme of spiritual transformation and the need for a new birth.