Luke 22:48

KJV

But Jesus said unto him, Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} Jesus {G2424} said {G2036} unto him {G846}, Judas {G2455}, betrayest thou {G3860} the Son {G5207} of man {G444} with a kiss {G5370}?

Complete Jewish Bible

but Yeshua said to him, “Y’hudah, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?”

Berean Standard Bible

But Jesus asked him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?”

American Standard Version

But Jesus said unto him, Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 22:48 records the deeply sorrowful and ironic moment in the Garden of Gethsemane when Jesus confronts Judas Iscariot's ultimate act of betrayal. With profound grief, Jesus directly questions Judas, highlighting the perversion of a traditional gesture of affection—a kiss—into the prearranged signal for His arrest and subsequent delivery to His enemies. This verse encapsulates the tragic culmination of Judas's treachery, underscoring both human depravity and divine foreknowledge in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This poignant verse is situated immediately after Jesus' intense and agonizing prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, where He fully submitted to the Father's will, even to the point of death on the cross, as detailed in [Luke 22:39-46](/luke/22-39-46 "Luke 22:39-46 - Jesus' Prayer in Gethsemane"). The narrative transitions abruptly from Jesus' private spiritual struggle to the public act of His apprehension. Judas, one of the twelve disciples, arrives with a large crowd, including chief priests, temple guards, and elders, armed with swords and clubs, indicating their intent to seize Jesus by force. The kiss was the pre-arranged signal for Judas to identify Jesus to the authorities in the darkness of the night, making this confrontation the pivotal moment that initiates Jesus' passion narrative, leading directly to His trial and crucifixion.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern cultures, a kiss was a common and significant gesture of greeting, respect, and affection among friends, family members, and even between a disciple and a rabbi. It signified intimacy and loyalty. Therefore, Judas's use of a kiss as the means of identification for betrayal was not merely a practical signal but a profound perversion of a sacred social custom. This act would have been understood by contemporary audiences as a particularly heinous and shocking form of treachery, intensifying the moral outrage of the betrayal. The presence of chief priests, temple guards, and elders underscores the official, albeit corrupt, religious authority behind the arrest, highlighting the political and religious conspiracy against Jesus.
* **Key Themes:** Luke 22:48 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Luke's Gospel and the broader biblical narrative. It vividly portrays the **depth of human betrayal**, particularly from within an intimate circle, echoing Old Testament prophecies concerning betrayal by a close companion, such as in [Psalm 41:9](/psalms/41-9 "Psalm 41:9 - Betrayal by a Close Friend"). The verse also underscores the theme of **hypocrisy and deception**, as a gesture of affection is twisted into an act of profound treachery, exposing the stark contrast between outward appearance and malicious intent. Furthermore, Jesus' calm, sorrowful question, "betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?", reinforces His **divine foreknowledge and sovereignty** even in His moment of vulnerability. He was not surprised by Judas's actions, having known his heart and ultimate intent long before, as seen in [John 6:70-71](/john/6-70-71 "John 6:70-71 - Jesus Knows His Betrayer"). This moment, therefore, highlights that even in the face of human wickedness, God's sovereign plan of redemption is unfolding precisely as ordained.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Betrayest (Greek, _paradídōmi'_):** This verb (G3860) means "to surrender," "to yield up," "to intrust," or "to transmit." In this context, it carries the heavy connotation of "to deliver over" or "to hand over" someone to an enemy or to justice. Its repeated use throughout the Gospels to describe Jesus being delivered into the hands of His enemies (e.g., [Matthew 20:18](/matthew/20-18 "Matthew 20:18 - Jesus Foretells His Betrayal")) underscores the divine plan unfolding through human agency, even Judas's wicked act. It is a term of legal and judicial surrender, but here it is tainted by the moral corruption of treachery.
* **Son of man (Greek, _huiós_ G5207, _ánthrōpos_ G444):** This is Jesus' most frequent self-designation, emphasizing both His true humanity and His unique, divinely appointed messianic role. The term draws heavily from [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man Coming with Clouds"), where a "Son of Man" figure receives everlasting dominion and glory. By using this title, Jesus affirms His identity and authority even as He is being delivered into human hands, highlighting the paradox of His humble appearance and His ultimate cosmic authority.
* **Kiss (Greek, _phílēma'_):** This noun (G5370) refers to a kiss, a common and culturally accepted greeting among friends or family in that era, signifying affection, respect, or reconciliation. Its use by Judas in this context transforms it from a symbol of intimacy and trust into a grotesque instrument of deceit and betrayal. The word itself is neutral, but its application here makes it particularly heinous, symbolizing the profound depths of treachery when love is perverted for destructive ends.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But Jesus said unto him,"**: This opening phrase sets the scene for a direct, personal confrontation. The "But" (G1161, _dé_) introduces a contrast, shifting from the general arrival of the crowd to Jesus' specific address to Judas. It emphasizes the directness and intentionality of Jesus' response, not as a victim caught unaware, but as one who knows and confronts the betrayer.
* **"Judas,"**: Jesus' direct address by name is profoundly significant. It is not an exclamation of surprise but a sorrowful acknowledgment of the betrayer's identity. This personal address underscores the intimacy of their past relationship and the profound pain of the betrayal coming from one of His chosen twelve. It is a final, tender appeal, a last opportunity for Judas to reconsider, even in the very act of his sin.
* **"betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?"**: This is a rhetorical question laden with irony, sorrow, and condemnation. Jesus exposes the heinous nature of Judas's act by highlighting the stark contrast between the gesture (a kiss, a sign of affection) and the intent (betrayal of the Messiah). The question is not for information but to underscore the moral bankruptcy of Judas's action. It emphasizes the perversion of intimacy and trust, and the profound hypocrisy involved in using a symbol of love to deliver the "Son of Man"—the divine Messiah—to His enemies.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 22:48 is rich in **Irony**, which is the most prominent literary device. The use of a "kiss," a universal symbol of affection and loyalty, as the very means of betrayal creates a stark and painful contrast. This **situational irony** highlights the profound perversion of Judas's act, transforming a gesture of intimacy into one of ultimate treachery. Furthermore, Jesus' question itself is an example of **rhetorical questioning**, designed not to elicit an answer but to emphasize the moral gravity and shocking nature of Judas's deed. The question serves to expose Judas's hypocrisy and the depth of his sin, while simultaneously revealing Jesus' divine foreknowledge and His sorrowful acceptance of His fate. The phrase "Son of man" also carries **symbolism**, representing both Jesus' true humanity and His messianic authority, thereby intensifying the tragic nature of His betrayal by a human hand.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 22:48 stands as a stark testament to the profound reality of human sin and the depth of betrayal, even within the closest circles. Theologically, it underscores the cost of discipleship and the ever-present danger of hypocrisy. Judas's act, though driven by his own corrupted will, also serves as a chilling fulfillment of divine prophecy, demonstrating God's sovereign hand at work even amidst human wickedness. Jesus' calm, sorrowful confrontation reveals His perfect knowledge, His unwavering commitment to the Father's will, and His willingness to endure the ultimate personal betrayal for the sake of humanity's redemption. It highlights the contrast between the outward show of piety and the inner reality of a heart given over to sin, serving as a timeless warning against spiritual deception.

* [Psalm 41:9](/psalms/41-9 "Psalm 41:9 - Betrayal by a Close Friend")
* [Zechariah 11:12](/zechariah/11-12 "Zechariah 11:12 - Thirty Pieces of Silver")
* [Matthew 26:47-50](/matthew/26-47-50 "Matthew 26:47-50 - Judas's Betrayal")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 22:48 compels us to look inward, examining the sincerity of our own devotion and the integrity of our actions. The story of Judas serves as a sobering reminder that outward religious gestures mean nothing if the heart is not truly surrendered to Christ. We are called to cultivate genuine faith, free from hypocrisy, where our actions align with our professed beliefs. This passage also reminds us that betrayal, even from those we trust most, is a painful reality in a fallen world. Jesus, though divine, experienced this profound human suffering, offering us solace and understanding when we face similar hurts. Ultimately, it challenges us to consider our own allegiance: are we truly committed to Christ, even when it costs us, or are there hidden motives or areas of compromise that could lead us down a path of spiritual deceit? The call is to unwavering faithfulness and authentic love for our Savior.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Judas's betrayal with a kiss challenge my understanding of outward religious expressions versus inner spiritual reality?**
* **In what areas of my life might I be tempted to use "religious" gestures or words to mask unrighteous intentions or a lack of true commitment?**
* **How can Jesus' response to Judas inform my own reactions when I experience betrayal or deep hurt from others?**
* **What does this passage teach me about the importance of integrity and sincerity in my relationship with God and others?**

### FAQ

**Why did Judas use a kiss to betray Jesus?**

Answer: In ancient Jewish culture, a kiss was a common and culturally accepted sign of greeting, respect, and affection, particularly between a disciple and a rabbi. Judas used a kiss as the pre-arranged signal to identify Jesus to the temple guards and chief priests in the darkness of the Garden of Gethsemane. This act was not merely a practical identifier but a profound perversion of a gesture of intimacy and loyalty, making the betrayal all the more heinous and ironic. It highlighted the depth of his treachery by twisting a symbol of love into an instrument of death.

**What is the significance of Jesus calling Himself "Son of Man" in this context?**

Answer: Jesus frequently referred to Himself as the "Son of Man," a title with deep roots in the Old Testament, particularly [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man Coming with Clouds"). This designation emphasizes both His true humanity (He is a human being) and His unique, divinely appointed messianic authority and future glory. In the context of His betrayal, using this title underscores the paradox of His situation: He is being delivered into human hands, yet He remains the sovereign, divine Messiah who will ultimately receive all dominion and glory. It highlights that even in His moment of vulnerability, He maintains His true identity and authority.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 22:48, with its raw depiction of betrayal, finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment not just in the immediate suffering of Jesus, but in His ultimate victory over sin and death, which this very betrayal set in motion. Judas's kiss, the ultimate act of human treachery, paradoxically served as a necessary step in God's divine plan for salvation. Jesus, the "Son of Man" (a title pointing to His messianic authority and future glory, as seen in [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man Coming with Clouds")), willingly submitted to this betrayal, knowing it would lead to the cross. His suffering, initiated by this kiss, was not a defeat but the means by which He would become the "Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world" ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). The betrayal of Jesus by one of His own foreshadows the universal human tendency to reject God, yet it also magnifies the boundless grace of God who, in Christ, absorbed the full weight of human sin and treachery. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus conquered the very forces that sought to betray and destroy Him, offering forgiveness and reconciliation even to those who betray Him, fulfilling the prophecy that He would be "delivered over for our transgressions and was raised for our justification" ([Romans 4:25](/romans/4-25 "Romans 4:25 - Jesus' Resurrection for Our Justification")). Thus, the kiss of betrayal, a symbol of ultimate human depravity, becomes a dark backdrop against which the radiant light of Christ's sacrificial love and redemptive power shines ever brighter.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 27:6

Faithful [are] the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy [are] deceitful.

2 Samuel 20:9

And Joab said to Amasa, [Art] thou in health, my brother? And Joab took Amasa by the beard with the right hand to kiss him.

2 Samuel 20:10

But Amasa took no heed to the sword that [was] in Joab's hand: so he smote him therewith in the fifth [rib], and shed out his bowels to the ground, and struck him not again; and he died. So Joab and Abishai his brother pursued after Sheba the son of Bichri.

Mark 14:44

And he that betrayed him had given them a token, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he; take him, and lead [him] away safely.

Mark 14:46

And they laid their hands on him, and took him.

Matthew 26:48

Now he that betrayed him gave them a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he: hold him fast.

Matthew 26:50

And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him.