Judas Iscariot

Lore & Background

Judas Iscariot is consistently named among the twelve apostles, but with the distinctive note that he would betray Jesus (Matthew 10:4; Mark 3:19; Luke 6:16). In Matthew 26:14 and Mark 14:10, he takes the active step of going to the chief priests to arrange the betrayal. John’s Gospel adds that he is the son of Simon (John 6:71; John 12:4; John 13:2; John 13:26) and that the devil had put the betrayal into his heart (John 13:2).

Reader's Guide

The passages portray Judas Iscariot as a figure defined by his act of betrayal. He is listed among the twelve, but his name is immediately linked to his future treachery (Matthew 10:4; Mark 3:19; Luke 6:16). His agency is shown in his direct approach to the chief priests (Matthew 26:14; Mark 14:10). John’s Gospel emphasizes his identity as Simon’s son (John 6:71; John 12:4; John 13:2; John 13:26) and introduces a supernatural element: the devil’s influence (John 13:2). The passages do not describe his death, remorse, or any other events; they focus solely on his role as the betrayer among the twelve.

Did You Know?

• Judas Iscariot is called 'the son of Simon' in John 6:71, John 12:4, John 13:2, and John 13:26.
• He is the only disciple explicitly named as the betrayer in all four Gospels cited (Matthew 10:4; Mark 3:19; Luke 6:16; John 6:71).
• The devil is said to have put betrayal into his heart (John 13:2).
• He went to the chief priests to betray Jesus (Matthew 26:14; Mark 14:10).

Notable Quotes (Wikiquote)

"Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor?" — Judas Iscariot "Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he." — Judas Iscariot "I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood." — Judas Iscariot "Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?" — Judas Iscariot