João 11:49

Caiaphas’ remarks reflect the frenzy that characterized this meeting. He addressed his colleagues rather unflatteringly as ignoramuses. Caiaphas had received his office of high priest from the Romans in A.D. 18. His father-in-law Annas had preceded him in the office, and Annas continued to exercise considerable influence. However it was Caiaphas who had the official power at this time.

John’s reference to "that year" (John 11:49) was probably with the year of Jesus’ death in mind (cf. John 11:51; John 18:13). Another possibility is that John may have been hinting at the tenuous nature of the high priestly office in those days when Rome arbitrarily deposed and appointed leaders with little warning. [Note: J. B. Lightfoot, Biblical Essays, pp. 28-29.] Caiaphas’ insulting statement to his fellow Sanhedrin members, "You know nothing at all!" presents him as a rude boor.