Matthew 26:14

¶ Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests,

Then {G5119} one {G1520} of the twelve {G1427}, called {G3004} Judas {G2455} Iscariot {G2469}, went {G4198} unto {G4314} the chief priests {G749},

Then one of the Twelve, the one called Y'hudah from K'riot, went to the head cohanim

Then one of the Twelve, the one called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests

Then one of the twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests,

Matthew 26:14 marks a pivotal and somber moment in the Passion narrative, detailing the initiation of Jesus' betrayal by one of His closest followers.

Context

This verse immediately follows the account of Mary anointing Jesus with expensive perfume in Bethany (Matthew 26:6-13). While the disciples, including Judas, questioned the "waste" of the costly ointment, Jesus defended Mary's act as preparation for His burial. It is in this atmosphere, perhaps fueled by greed or disillusionment, that Judas takes his decisive step. The verse also links directly to the chief priests and elders' existing plot to seize Jesus by subtlety and kill Him (Matthew 26:3-5), indicating Judas's alignment with their sinister agenda.

Key Themes

  • The Betrayal of Jesus: This verse introduces the shocking act of betrayal by Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve chosen disciples. It highlights the profound pain and irony of being betrayed by someone from within one's inner circle.
  • The Sovereignty of God: While Judas's act was a free choice driven by sin, it paradoxically served God's greater redemptive plan. This betrayal was foretold in Scripture (Psalm 41:9, Zechariah 11:12) and was necessary for the crucifixion and subsequent resurrection of Jesus.
  • The Peril of Greed and Disillusionment: Although the motive isn't explicitly stated in this verse, subsequent verses (Matthew 26:15) reveal money as a key factor. Judas's decision serves as a stark warning about how unchecked desires can lead to spiritual ruin and profound sin.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "one of the twelve" (Greek: heis tōn dōdeka) underscores Judas's privileged position and intimate relationship with Jesus. This emphasizes the gravity of his defection. The name "Judas Iscariot" itself is significant; "Iscariot" is often interpreted as "man of Kerioth," suggesting he was from a town in Judah, distinct from most of the Galilean disciples. This distinction might subtly highlight his unique role in the unfolding drama.

Practical Application

The betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot serves as a timeless reminder of several truths:

  • The Reality of Spiritual Conflict: Even within the closest circles of faith, deception and betrayal can occur. This calls for vigilance and discernment.
  • The Dangers of Unchecked Sin: Judas's path illustrates how small compromises or unaddressed desires (like greed) can escalate into catastrophic actions. It prompts self-examination of our own hearts and motives.
  • God's Unfailing Purpose: Despite the darkest human acts, God's sovereign plan of salvation remains unhindered. Even through betrayal, the path to redemption was paved, leading to God's ultimate demonstration of love for humanity.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Luke 22:3

    Then entered Satan into Judas surnamed Iscariot, being of the number of the twelve.

  • Luke 22:6

    And he promised, and sought opportunity to betray him unto them in the absence of the multitude.

  • Matthew 10:4

    Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him.

  • Mark 14:10

    And Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went unto the chief priests, to betray him unto them.

  • Mark 14:11

    And when they heard [it], they were glad, and promised to give him money. And he sought how he might conveniently betray him.

  • John 13:2

    And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's [son], to betray him;

  • Acts 1:16

    Men [and] brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.
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