Topical Encyclopedia Introduction:The event of Judas Iscariot agreeing to betray Jesus is a pivotal moment in the New Testament narrative, marking the beginning of the Passion of Christ. This act of betrayal is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels: Matthew 26:14-16, Mark 14:10-11, and Luke 22:3-6. Judas, one of the twelve disciples, becomes a central figure in the unfolding of the events leading to the crucifixion of Jesus. Biblical Account: Matthew 26:14-16 : "Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests 15 and asked, 'What are you willing to give me if I hand Him over to you?' And they set out for him thirty pieces of silver. 16 So from that time on Judas looked for an opportunity to betray Jesus." Mark 14:10-11 : "Then Judas Iscariot, one of the Twelve, went to the chief priests to betray Jesus to them. 11 They were delighted to hear this and promised to give him money. So Judas began to look for an opportunity to betray Him." Luke 22:3-6 : "Then Satan entered Judas Iscariot, who was one of the Twelve. 4 And Judas went to discuss with the chief priests and temple officers how he might betray Jesus to them. 5 They were delighted and agreed to give him money. 6 Judas consented, and began to look for an opportunity to betray Jesus to them in the absence of a crowd." Analysis: 1. Role of Judas Iscariot: Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus, is often remembered for his act of betrayal. Despite his close association with Jesus, Judas's actions reveal a complex interplay of motives and influences, including greed and possibly disillusionment. 2. Motivation and Influence: The Gospels suggest that Judas was motivated by financial gain, as he negotiated a price of thirty pieces of silver for his betrayal. This amount, as noted in Matthew, fulfills the prophecy found in Zechariah 11:12-13, highlighting the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy in the New Testament narrative. Additionally, Luke's account introduces a spiritual dimension, noting that "Satan entered Judas," indicating a diabolical influence over his decision. 3. The Role of the Chief Priests: The chief priests and religious leaders were actively seeking a way to arrest Jesus without inciting a public uproar. Judas's offer provided them with the perfect opportunity to capture Jesus discreetly. Their willingness to pay Judas underscores their determination to eliminate Jesus, whom they viewed as a threat to their authority and the status quo. 4. Theological Implications: Judas's betrayal is often viewed through the lens of divine providence and human free will. While Judas acted of his own volition, his actions were part of the divine plan for salvation. This event sets in motion the arrest, trial, and crucifixion of Jesus, leading to His ultimate sacrifice for the sins of humanity. 5. Symbolism of Thirty Pieces of Silver: The thirty pieces of silver paid to Judas is significant both historically and symbolically. In the Old Testament, this amount was the price of a slave (Exodus 21:32), underscoring the perceived worthlessness of Jesus in the eyes of the religious leaders. This transaction highlights the contrast between the material value placed on Jesus by Judas and the infinite spiritual value of His sacrifice. Conclusion: The agreement of Judas to betray Jesus is a moment of profound significance in the Gospel narratives. It serves as a catalyst for the events of the Passion Week and offers deep insights into themes of betrayal, prophecy, and redemption. Judas's actions, while tragic, are woven into the larger tapestry of God's redemptive plan for humanity. Subtopics Judas (Jude): A Disciple Who Hosted Paul Judas (Jude): An Apostle, Probably Identical With Lebbaeus, or Thaddaeus Judas (Jude): of Galilee, Who Stirred up a Sedition Among the Jews Soon After the Birth of Jesus Judas (Jude): One of the Physical Half-Brothers of Jesus Judas (Jude): Surnamed "Barsabas": A Christian Sent to Antioch of Syria With Paul and Barnabas Judas (Jude): Surnamed "Iscariot" by his Bargaining to Betray Jesus for a Sum of Money Judas (Jude): Surnamed "Iscariot" by his Protest Against the Breaking of the Container of Ointment Judas (Jude): Surnamed "Iscariot": Betrays the Lord Jesus Judas (Jude): Surnamed "Iscariot": Chosen As an Apostle Judas (Jude): Surnamed "Iscariot": Hangs Himself Judas (Jude): Surnamed "Iscariot": His Apostasy Judas (Jude): Surnamed "Iscariot": Prophecies Concerning Judas (Jude): Surnamed "Iscariot": Returns the Money to the Rulers of the Jews Judas (Jude): Surnamed "Iscariot": The Treasurer of the Disciples Judas (Jude): The Brother of James and Probably the Writer of the Epistle of Jude Related Terms |