For some, the concept of stone-cold betrayal can be summed up in just one name: Judas. Yet while his name may today be considered a byword for treachery and the man himself is often called one of the most famous traitors in history, the real story of Judas Iscariot is far more complicated than something that can be summed up in a single word.
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When you hear the name "Judas," it's probably not being used in a nice way. Often, people use it as a noun for someone who's betrayed someone. And for good reason. One of the Twelve Apostles was named Judas Iscariot. He is seen in the famous painting "The Last Supper" seated fourth from left in the artwork, which makes him three people left from Jesus. But he wasn't an apostle for long — Judas took his own life after betraying Jesus by revealing his location, identifying him with a kiss.
Without a doubt, Judas Iscariot is not only the most infamous traitor in the Bible, but possibly all of recorded history. As the Biblical story goes, he was a disciple of Jesus who handed his master over to Roman authorities for 30 silver coins, which directly caused Jesus' trial, crucifixion, and resurrection. Judas' very name is shorthand for "betrayer."
Judas Iscariot is most well known for betraying Jesus Christ by selling him out to the chief high priests, which in turn led to Jesus' arrest and crucifixion. Today, Judas' name is synonymous with traitor. But besides betraying Jesus, not much is known of Judas, unlike the other Apostles.
So, what's the real story? Digging deep into the reality of what's said about Judas in the Gospels and beyond, even religious scholars may be surprised by what we know — and don't know — about Judas Iscariot. This is the untold truth of the man who is widely considered one of the Bible's biggest villains.
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