The Greek noun bouleutēs (βουλευτής) refers to a counselor, a member of a deliberative council, or a senator. In the New Testament, it is used specifically to describe Joseph of Arimathea, who was a member of the Sanhedrin, the supreme Jewish council in Jerusalem. The word appears twice in the New Testament (Mark 15:43; Luke 23:50), both referring to Joseph.
Joseph of Arimathea stands as one of the most poignant figures in the Passion narrative. A member of the very council that condemned Jesus, he "had not consented to their decision and action" (Luke 23:51) and was himself "waiting for the kingdom of God." After the crucifixion, he went boldly to Pilate and asked for Jesus's body — risking his standing, wealth, and safety. He provided his own new tomb for the Lord's burial. Joseph exemplifies the truth that God has servants in unexpected places — even in the halls of power and opposition. His courage in the darkest hour fulfilled Isaiah 53:9: "He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death."