This noun designates a member of a council or deliberative body, derived from the verb meaning to deliberate or plan. Classical Greek used it for senators and members of various civic councils. In the New Testament, it specifically refers to members of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council. Both occurrences describe Joseph of Arimathea, identified as 'a councilor' or 'council member' (Mark 15:43; Luke 23:50). This office placed Joseph among Jerusalem's religious and political elite, making his bold request for Jesus's body and his discipleship particularly significant. The word emphasizes his official status and the courage required to publicly identify with the crucified Jesus.