And while he yet spake, behold a multitude, and he that was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them, and drew near unto Jesus to kiss him.
LUKE 22:47KJVWhat does Luke 22:47 mean?
Luke 22:47 describes the moment when Judas, one of Jesus’ twelve disciples, leads a crowd to where Jesus is and approaches Jesus to greet him with a kiss. This verse marks the beginning of the betrayal that leads to Jesus’ arrest.
The setting is the Garden of Gethsemane at night. Jesus is speaking to his disciples when a group arrives, led by Judas. Judas, identified as “one of the twelve,” steps ahead of the crowd and comes close to Jesus, intending to kiss him—a common greeting, but in this case, a sign to identify Jesus to those who came to arrest him.
The Greek behind Luke 22:47
- Ἰούδας (Ioudas): This is the Greek form of "Judas." The verse emphasizes that Judas is “one of the twelve,” highlighting the shock of betrayal by someone from Jesus’ closest group.
- προῆλθεν (proēlthen): Translated as “went before them,” this word shows Judas taking the lead, not just physically but also in the act of betrayal.
- φιλῆσαι (philēsai): This verb means “to kiss.” In this context, it is not just a greeting but a prearranged signal to identify Jesus to the arresting crowd.
Why Luke 22:47 matters
- The verse highlights the personal nature of Jesus’ betrayal, showing that it came from within his own circle of trusted followers.
- By mentioning the kiss, Luke sets up the contrast between an act of affection and the reality of betrayal, deepening the emotional impact of the scene.
- This verse connects directly to the unfolding events of Jesus’ arrest and crucifixion, marking a turning point in the narrative where Jesus’ path to the cross begins in earnest.