The Betrayer

Judas Iscariot is infamous for betraying Jesus Christ. Some scholars read Iscariot to mean “man of Kerioth”, a city in Judea. This would make him the only Judean in the group and an outsider. Judas is often depicted as the group’s treasurer but is also portrayed as a thief who stole from the communal purse (John 12:6). Despite witnessing Jesus’ miracles, Judas succumbed to greed and disillusionment. He agreed to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver, facilitating His arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:14-16).

After Jesus’ condemnation, Judas, filled with remorse, returned the silver to the priests and hanged himself (Matthew 27:3-5). His tragic end highlights the consequences of his choices. Judas’ legacy serves as a cautionary tale about betrayal, greed, and moral failure, reminding us of the struggle with sin and need for redemption. His life shows that one can give Jesus their time but not their heart. ■

This biographical information is obtained from many sources. Outside of Scripture, there is little recorded factual evidence. Details are drawn from sometimes conflicting historical writings and traditions that paint a picture of  these men’s lives and deaths. The history of the twelve disciples is an inspiration  and challenge. However, it is essential to acknowledge that the New Testament provides the most extensive biographical information about the most significant figure—Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer. (All images are for illustrative purposes only.)