The term "betrayer" in the context of the Bible most prominently refers to Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. Judas is infamously known for his act of betrayal, which led to the arrest and crucifixion of Jesus. His actions and character are described in various passages throughout the New Testament, providing insight into his role and the fulfillment of prophetic scripture.

Identity and Role

Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon Iscariot, is introduced as one of the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus (Matthew 10:4; Mark 3:19; Luke 6:16). Despite his privileged position as a close follower of Christ, Judas is consistently identified as the one who would betray Jesus. In John 6:70-71, Jesus Himself acknowledges Judas's future betrayal: "Jesus answered them, 'Have I not chosen you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!' He was speaking about Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot. For although Judas was one of the Twelve, he was later to betray Jesus."

Character and Motivations

Judas's character is often depicted as greedy and deceitful. He served as the treasurer for the group, managing the money bag, but was known to steal from it (John 12:6). His love for money is further highlighted in the account of his agreement with the chief priests to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16). This act of betrayal was premeditated and driven by his avarice, as he sought personal gain over loyalty to his Master.

The Act of Betrayal

The betrayal itself is a pivotal moment in the Passion narrative. Judas's treachery is set in motion during the Last Supper, where Jesus predicts His betrayal, saying, "Truly, truly, I tell you, one of you will betray Me" (John 13:21). Despite the disciples' confusion and denial, Jesus identifies Judas as the betrayer by giving him a piece of bread (John 13:26-27). Following this, Judas leaves to finalize his betrayal.

In the Garden of Gethsemane, Judas leads a band of soldiers and officials to Jesus, identifying Him with a kiss—a gesture of friendship turned into a signal of betrayal (Matthew 26:47-49; Mark 14:43-45; Luke 22:47-48). This act fulfills the prophecy found in Psalm 41:9: "Even my close friend, whom I trusted, he who shared my bread, has lifted up his heel against me."

Consequences and Legacy

The consequences of Judas's betrayal are severe and tragic. Overcome with remorse, Judas attempts to return the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests, declaring, "I have sinned by betraying innocent blood" (Matthew 27:4). However, his repentance is not genuine, as it leads to despair rather than redemption. Ultimately, Judas takes his own life, hanging himself (Matthew 27:5).

Judas's legacy is one of infamy and serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed, betrayal, and the rejection of divine grace. His actions are a stark reminder of the human capacity for sin, even among those who are closest to the truth. The early church viewed Judas as a tragic figure whose betrayal was both a fulfillment of prophecy and a profound moral failure.