John 12:4

Then saith one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's [son], which should betray him,

Then {G3767} saith {G3004} one {G1520} of {G1537} his {G846} disciples {G3101}, Judas {G2455} Iscariot {G2469}, Simon's {G4613} son, which {G3588} should {G3195} betray {G3860} him {G846},

But one of the talmidim, Y’hudah from K’riot, the one who was about to betray him, said,

But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was going to betray Him, asked,

But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples, that should betray him, saith,

Commentary

This verse introduces a specific individual among Jesus' disciples who speaks up during a significant event. It follows the account of Mary anointing Jesus' feet with costly perfume in Bethany. The reaction from "one of his disciples" is highlighted, and that disciple is immediately identified.

Context

The scene is set in Bethany, at the house of Lazarus, Mary, and Martha, six days before the Passover (John 12:1). Mary has just performed a profound act of devotion by anointing Jesus' feet with expensive spikenard and wiping them with her hair (John 12:3). This act drew a reaction, and this verse identifies the person who voiced the objection, setting the stage for understanding the true motive behind the question raised in the following verse.

Key Themes

  • Identification of the Betrayer: The verse explicitly names Judas Iscariot as one of Jesus' twelve disciples and, significantly, identifies him as the one "which should betray him." This foresight highlights the divine knowledge Jesus possessed regarding His own future and the role Judas would play.
  • Contrast in Motives: Placed immediately after Mary's selfless act of worship, Judas's interjection serves as a stark contrast, revealing hidden motives that were not aligned with genuine devotion, which is further explained in John 12:6.
  • Simon's Son: The mention of his father's name, Simon, helps distinguish this Judas from other individuals named Judas in the Gospels. "Iscariot" likely indicates his geographical origin, possibly Kerioth in Judea, setting him apart from the Galilean majority among the disciples.

Linguistic Insights

The name "Iscariot" (Is-kariot) is widely believed to mean "man of Kerioth," suggesting a connection to a town in Southern Judea. This geographical identifier is important as it distinguishes him from the northern, Galilean disciples. The phrase "should betray him" uses the Greek verb paradidomi (παραδίδωμι), which means "to hand over," "deliver up," or "betray." It points forward to the specific act of handing Jesus over to the authorities.

Reflection and Application

This verse serves as a somber reminder that not everyone within a community, even one as close as Jesus' disciples, is truly committed or sincere. Judas's presence and eventual betrayal highlight the reality of hidden motives and deceit. It encourages believers to examine their own hearts and intentions, ensuring that their actions stem from genuine love and devotion rather than self-interest or pretense. It also underscores Jesus' awareness of the events to come, demonstrating His sovereignty even in the face of betrayal.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Matthew 10:4 (5 votes)

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

  • John 18:2 (3 votes)

    And Judas also, which betrayed him, knew the place: for Jesus ofttimes resorted thither with his disciples.

  • John 18:5 (3 votes)

    They answered him, Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus saith unto them, I am [he]. And Judas also, which betrayed him, stood with them.

  • John 13:2 (3 votes)

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

  • John 13:26 (3 votes)

    Jesus answered, He it is, to whom I shall give a sop, when I have dipped [it]. And when he had dipped the sop, he gave [it] to Judas Iscariot, [the son] of Simon.

  • John 6:70 (3 votes)

    Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil?

  • John 6:71 (3 votes)

    He spake of Judas Iscariot [the son] of Simon: for he it was that should betray him, being one of the twelve.