### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **prodótēs**, represented by `{{G4273}}`, is a term for a **betrayer** or **traitor**. Derived from a word meaning to give someone forward into an enemy's hands, it signifies a surrender or betrayal. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting specific and severe instances of treachery.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4273}}` is applied in distinct and weighty contexts. Most famously, it is used to identify Judas Iscariot as the one who was the **traitor** [[Luke 6:16]]. In Stephen's address before his death, he accuses the council of being **betrayers** and murderers of the "Just One," escalating the historical persecution of prophets to a climactic act of treachery [[Acts 7:52]]. The word is also used in 2 Timothy as part of a list describing the character of people in the last days, identifying **traitors** as a type of individual marked by godlessness [[2 Timothy 3:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are contextually linked to `{{G4273}}`, clarifying the nature of betrayal:
* `{{G4312}}` **propetḗs** (heady, rash): Described as "falling forward, i.e. headlong," this term appears alongside **traitors** in a list of negative traits, suggesting a link between betrayal and reckless impulsiveness [[2 Timothy 3:4]].
* `{{G5187}}` **typhóō** (high-minded, be proud): Defined as being inflated with self-conceit, this word is also paired with **traitors**, indicating that pride is a root of such treachery [[2 Timothy 3:4]].
* `{{G5406}}` **phoneús** (murderer): This term is directly associated with **betrayers** in [[Acts 7:52]], underscoring the lethal consequences and grave moral weight of betrayal.
* `{{G615}}` **apokteínō** (to kill outright): In [[Acts 7:52]], the fathers are accused of having **slain** the prophets, which provides the backdrop for the ultimate accusation of being **betrayers** of the Just One.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4273}}` is significant, pointing to a profound spiritual and moral failing.
* **Archetype of Treachery:** Its use to describe Judas Iscariot [[Luke 6:16]] establishes the ultimate biblical archetype of betrayal against God's anointed.
* **Sign of Apostasy:** The inclusion of **traitors** in the list of sins characterizing the last days marks betrayal not just as a personal failing, but as a sign of a society that is "lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God" [[2 Timothy 3:4]].
* **Culmination of Rebellion:** In [[Acts 7:52]], the act of being **betrayers** is presented as the final and most egregious act in a long history of rejecting and killing God's prophets, directly leading to the death of the "Just One."
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4273}}` is a powerful word that denotes more than simple disloyalty. It is used to define the specific, infamous act of Judas Iscariot, to characterize the godless nature of those in the end times, and to condemn the ultimate rejection of God's messiah. The term consistently appears alongside concepts of pride, rashness, and murder, cementing its meaning as an act of profound and malicious treachery.
TRV