Then Judas, which betrayed him, answered and said, Master, is it I? He said unto him, Thou hast said.
MATTHEW 26:25KJVWhat does Matthew 26:25 mean?
Matthew 26:25 describes Judas, the disciple who would betray Jesus, directly asking Jesus if he is the betrayer, calling him "Master." Jesus responds to Judas by saying, "Thou hast said," which is a way of confirming Judas's own words without making a direct accusation.
In this scene, Jesus is at the Last Supper with his disciples, having just said that one of them will betray him. Judas, who has already arranged to betray Jesus, asks if he is the one, and Jesus gives an indirect but clear answer. The exchange highlights Judas's duplicity and Jesus's awareness of what is about to happen.
The Greek behind Matthew 26:25
- "Master" (ῥαββί, rhabbi): This word means "teacher" or "master" and shows that Judas addresses Jesus with respect, even as he is about to betray him. The use of this title adds to the tension of the moment.
- "Thou hast said" (σὺ εἶπας, su eipas): This Greek phrase is often understood as an indirect affirmation, similar to saying, "You have said it yourself." It allows Jesus to confirm Judas's statement without making a blunt accusation in front of everyone.
Why Matthew 26:25 matters
- Matthew 26:25 clarifies that Judas openly asks Jesus about the betrayal, showing that Jesus is fully aware of Judas's intentions, and Judas knows that Jesus knows.
- The way Jesus answers, "Thou hast said," is significant because it confirms the truth without a public confrontation, fitting the tone of the Last Supper and the unfolding events.
- This verse connects to the wider passage by setting the stage for Judas's actions and showing that Jesus's betrayal was not a surprise to him, but something he faced knowingly.