The Great Commandment

Elder son of Lamech and secret zealot leader who believes more must be done for his people. He loves Tamar and struggles between familial duty, romantic feeling, and the urge to take decisive action. His discovery of Jesus’ message shifts him away from violence toward mercy.

Joel’s father, a respected village rabbi who wants his son to follow the family path as scribe and rabbi. He represents traditional authority and caution in a time of growing zeal. His conflict with Joel centers on faith, duty, and leadership.

Daughter of Jemuel and the object of Joel’s affection. Her betrothal complicates family plans and political tensions. Tamar embodies personal stakes in the community’s upheaval and the consequences of zealot actions.

Roman centurion who demands the tax and leads the soldiers against the village. He is stern and duty-bound, yet later reveals he witnessed Jesus’ crucifixion. His actions drive the village’s confrontation with Roman power and the villagers’ fate.

Joel’s younger, impetuous brother and fellow zealot who pushes for immediate violence. He leads the attempt to incite action against the Romans and faces the consequences of that choice.

The prophetic figure whose teachings guide the villagers. Present through parables and voice rather than direct appearances, he anchors the film’s moral arc toward mercy and neighbor-love.

One of Jesus’ disciples who represents contrasting ideas about Jesus’ mission and the path he should take. He interacts with Judas and helps illuminate the disciples’ differing perspectives on Jesus' intended role.

A disciple who, like the zealots, imagines Jesus as a political/military leader. His perspective contrasts with Jesus’ teachings and with the village’s expectations.

Innkeeper who informs Zadok of Longinus’ vulnerability and prompts the critical turn toward the inn confrontation. A minor but pivotal catalyst in the plot.

Carpet merchant and Tamar’s father who arranges her marriage to a chosen son. His presence signals the social and economic fabric the zealots want to redraw.

Tamar’s mother, representative of household concerns and the traditional structure the Young zealots challenge. Her role underscores the personal stakes of political upheaval.