of Hebrew origin (probably אִישׁ and קִרְיָא); inhabitant of Kerioth; Iscariotes (i.e. Keriothite), an epithet of Judas the traitor:--Iscariot.
Transliteration:Iskariṓtēs
Pronunciation:is-kar-ee-o'-tace
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term Ἰσκαριώτης (Iskariṓtēs, `{{G2469}}`) functions as an epithet, specifically identifying Judas. Its base definition indicates a Hebrew origin, likely derived from אִישׁ (ish, `{{H376}}`, "man") and קִרְיָא (qirya, a form related to Kerioth, `{{H7151}}`, "city" or "town"). Thus, the most probable meaning is "man of Kerioth" or "Keriothite." Kerioth was a town located in Judea, as evidenced in [[Joshua 15:25]]. This geographical identifier serves to distinguish Judas from the other disciples, who were predominantly Galileans. The semantic range of Ἰσκαριώτης is exceptionally narrow, exclusively referring to the individual Judas who betrayed Jesus. However, its profound significance lies in the implications of this identification, marking him as the one destined for this tragic role.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The epithet Ἰσκαριώτης (Iskariṓtēs, `{{G2469}}`) consistently appears in the New Testament whenever Judas, the betrayer, is mentioned. It is employed across all four Gospels and the book of Acts, always appended to the name Judas to differentiate him from other disciples named Judas (e.g., Judas, son of James, [[Luke 6:16]]). Notable occurrences include the listing of the disciples ([[Matthew 10:4]], [[Mark 3:19]], [[Luke 6:16]]), where he is invariably listed last and explicitly identified as the one who would betray Jesus. The Gospels repeatedly use this designation in narratives detailing his treachery, such as his agreement with the chief priests ([[Matthew 26:14]], [[Mark 14:10]]), his role as treasurer ([[John 12:4-6]]), and the final act of betrayal ([[John 13:2]], [[John 18:2]], [[John 18:5]]). In [[Acts 1:16]], Peter refers to "Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus," again using the full identifier. The consistent and deliberate use of "Iscariot" underscores his unique and tragic role in salvation history, serving as a constant textual marker of his identity as the betrayer.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for Ἰσκαριώτης (Iskariṓtēs, `{{G2469}}`) is its probable Hebrew etymology, linking it to אִישׁ (ish, `{{H376}}`, "man") and the geographical place name Kerioth (קִרְיָא, related to `{{H7151}}`). The most significant conceptual relationship is with the act of betrayal (προδίδωμι, prodidōmi, `{{G4273}}`), to which Judas Iscariot's name is inextricably linked. The epithet thus functions as a metonym for treachery itself. Furthermore, it differentiates him from other figures named Judas in the New Testament, such as Judas Thaddaeus ([[Luke 6:16]]) or Judas, the brother of Jesus ([[Matthew 13:55]]). His apostasy and ultimate rejection of Christ, despite being part of the inner circle, also relate to broader theological concepts of faith, discipleship, and the consequences of spiritual failure.
### Theological Significance
The identification of Judas as Ἰσκαριώτης (Iskariṓtēs, `{{G2469}}`) carries profound theological weight. Firstly, his betrayal, consistently marked by this epithet, serves as a stark fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy (e.g., [[Psalm 41:9]], [[Zechariah 11:12-13]]), underscoring God's sovereign plan unfolding even through human sin and rebellion. Secondly, Judas's presence among the twelve highlights the sobering reality that outward association with Christ does not guarantee genuine inward transformation or salvation. He stands as a perpetual warning against hypocrisy and the deceptive power of covetousness ([[John 12:6]]). Thirdly, his ultimate despair and suicide ([[Matthew 27:5]]), followed by his replacement ([[Acts 1:18-20]]), vividly portray the dire consequences of rejecting divine grace and succumbing to the spiritual darkness of unrepentant sin. Finally, while Judas's act was one of heinous evil, it was paradoxically woven into God's redemptive plan, leading directly to the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ, the very means of salvation for humanity.
### Summary
Ἰσκαριώτης (Iskariṓtēs, `{{G2469}}`) is a Greek epithet derived from Hebrew, meaning "man of Kerioth," identifying Judas as originating from a Judean town. This term is exclusively used in the New Testament to specify Judas, the betrayer of Jesus, distinguishing him from other individuals with the same name. Its consistent usage across the Gospels and Acts inextricably links his identity to his infamous act of betrayal (προδίδωμι, `{{G4273}}`). Theologically, the figure of Judas Iscariot, marked by this epithet, serves as a powerful testament to the fulfillment of prophecy, a solemn warning about the nature of true discipleship versus outward affiliation, and a stark illustration of the tragic consequences of apostasy and the rejection of divine grace, all within the overarching narrative of God's sovereign plan for redemption.
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