Topical Encyclopedia
Introduction:The name "Iscariote" is most commonly associated with Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. Judas Iscariot is a figure of significant infamy in the New Testament due to his betrayal of Jesus, which ultimately led to the crucifixion. The term "Iscariote" is often used to distinguish him from other individuals named Judas in the Bible.
Etymology and Meaning:The name "Iscariote" is believed to be derived from the Hebrew "Ish Kerioth," meaning "man of Kerioth." Kerioth is thought to be a town in Judea, suggesting that Judas was from this region. This geographical identifier helps differentiate him from other Judases mentioned in the Scriptures.
Biblical References:Judas Iscariot is mentioned in all four Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles. He is consistently listed among the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus. His role as the treasurer of the group is noted, as he was responsible for the money bag (
John 12:6).
Betrayal of Jesus:Judas Iscariot's most notable act was his betrayal of Jesus Christ. The Gospels recount that Judas agreed to betray Jesus to the chief priests for thirty pieces of silver (
Matthew 26:14-16). This act of betrayal was prophesied in the Old Testament, as seen in
Psalm 41:9, "Even my close friend, whom I trusted, he who shared my bread, has lifted up his heel against me."
During the Last Supper, Jesus identified Judas as the betrayer, saying, "Truly I tell you, one of you will betray Me" (
Matthew 26:21). Despite this revelation, the other disciples did not immediately understand the implications. Judas left the supper to carry out his plan, leading the soldiers to Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane and identifying Him with a kiss (
Matthew 26:47-49).
Aftermath and Death:Following the arrest of Jesus, Judas experienced remorse and attempted to return the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests, declaring, "I have sinned by betraying innocent blood" (
Matthew 27:4). However, the priests refused to take back the money. Overcome with guilt, Judas threw the silver into the temple and went away to hang himself (
Matthew 27:5).
The book of Acts provides additional details about Judas's death, stating that he fell headlong, his body burst open, and all his intestines spilled out (
Acts 1:18). This account complements the narrative in Matthew, emphasizing the tragic end of Judas Iscariot.
Theological Implications:Judas Iscariot's betrayal is a profound moment in the narrative of the Gospels, highlighting themes of free will, prophecy, and the nature of sin. His actions fulfilled the Scriptures, yet they also serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and betrayal. Judas's role in the passion of Christ underscores the sovereignty of God in using even the most grievous acts to accomplish His divine purposes.
Legacy:Judas Iscariot's name has become synonymous with treachery and betrayal. His account is a sobering reminder of the potential for human failure and the consequences of turning away from the truth. Despite his close proximity to Jesus and the teachings he received, Judas's heart was ultimately led astray, serving as a warning to all believers to remain vigilant in their faith and devotion.
Concordance
Iscariote (11 Occurrences)Matthew 10:4
Simon the Cananaean, and Judas theIscariote, who also delivered him up.
(DBY)
Matthew 26:14
Then one of the twelve, he who was called JudasIscariote, went to the chief priests
(DBY)
Mark 3:19
and JudasIscariote, who also delivered him up. And they come to the house.
(DBY)
Mark 14:10
And JudasIscariote, one of the twelve, went away to the chief priests that he might deliver him up to them;
(DBY)
Luke 6:16
and Judas brother of James, and JudasIscariote, who was also his betrayer;
(DBY)
Luke 22:3
And Satan entered into Judas, who was surnamedIscariote, being of the number of the twelve.
(DBY)
John 6:71
Now he spoke of Judas the son of Simon,Iscariote, for he it was who should deliver him up, being one of the twelve.
(DBY)
John 12:4
One of his disciples therefore, Judas son of Simon,Iscariote, who was about to deliver him up, says,
(DBY)
John 13:2
And during supper, the devil having already put it into the heart of Judas son of Simon,Iscariote, that he should deliver him up,
(DBY)
John 13:26
Jesus answers, He it is to whom I, after I have dipped the morsel, give it. And having dipped the morsel, he gives it to Judas son of Simon,Iscariote.
(DBY)
John 14:22
Judas, not theIscariote, says to him, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself to us and not to the world?
(DBY)
Thesaurus
Iscariote (11 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance
Iscariote (11 Occurrences). Matthew 10:4 Simon the Cananaean,
and Judas the
Iscariote, who also delivered him up. (DBY).
...Deliver (397 Occurrences)
... Matthew 10:4 Simon the Cananaean, and Judas theIscariote, who also delivered
him up.... Mark 3:19 and JudasIscariote, who also delivered him up....
Delivered (427 Occurrences)
... Matthew 10:4 Simon the Cananaean, and Judas theIscariote, who also delivered him
up. (DBY).... Mark 3:19 and JudasIscariote, who also delivered him up....
Isdael
Morsel (14 Occurrences)
... And having dipped the morsel, he gives it to Judas son of Simon,Iscariote. (DBY
YLT NAS RSV). John 13:27 And, after the morsel, then entered Satan into him....
Answers (42 Occurrences)
... And having dipped the morsel, he gives it to Judas son of Simon,Iscariote. (DBY).
John 13:38 Jesus answers, Thou wilt lay down thy life for me!...
Iscariot (11 Occurrences)
Gives (542 Occurrences)
... give it. And having dipped the morsel, he gives it to Judas son of Simon,
Iscariote. (DBY). John 14:27 Peace I leave with you. My...
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