Topical Encyclopedia The concept of betrayal is a significant theme throughout the Bible, illustrating the frailty of human loyalty and the profound impact of treachery. Betrayal is often depicted as a grievous sin, reflecting a breach of trust and a violation of covenantal relationships. The Bible provides numerous examples of betrayal, each serving as a moral and spiritual lesson for believers.Old Testament Examples 1. Joseph and His Brothers: One of the earliest and most poignant examples of betrayal is found in the account of Joseph. His brothers, driven by jealousy, sold him into slavery (Genesis 37:28). This act of betrayal set the stage for Joseph's eventual rise to power in Egypt and the preservation of his family during famine. Joseph's response to his brothers' betrayal is notable for its grace and forgiveness, as he later reassures them, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good" (Genesis 50:20). 2. David and Ahithophel: King David experienced betrayal from Ahithophel, his trusted advisor, who sided with Absalom during the rebellion (2 Samuel 15:12). This betrayal is lamented by David in Psalm 41:9, "Even my close friend, whom I trusted, he who shared my bread, has lifted up his heel against me" . Ahithophel's betrayal underscores the pain of treachery from those within one's inner circle. New Testament Examples 1. Judas Iscariot: The most infamous act of betrayal in the New Testament is that of Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus' twelve disciples. Judas betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver, leading to His arrest and crucifixion (Matthew 26:14-16). Jesus, aware of the impending betrayal, still washed Judas' feet, demonstrating His love and servanthood (John 13:2-5). Jesus' foreknowledge of Judas' actions is captured in His words, "The Son of Man will go as it has been decreed, but woe to that man who betrays him" (Luke 22:22). 2. Peter's Denial: While not a betrayal in the traditional sense, Peter's denial of Jesus is often viewed as a form of personal betrayal. Despite his earlier vow of loyalty, Peter denied knowing Jesus three times during His trial (Matthew 26:69-75). This incident highlights human weakness and the potential for restoration, as Peter is later reinstated by Jesus (John 21:15-19). Theological Implications Betrayal in the Bible is not merely a historical account but serves as a profound theological motif. It reveals the depth of human sinfulness and the need for divine grace. The betrayal of Jesus by Judas is central to the redemptive narrative, as it leads to the crucifixion and subsequent resurrection, fulfilling God's salvific plan. The Bible also teaches that betrayal is not beyond the scope of forgiveness. Joseph's forgiveness of his brothers and Jesus' restoration of Peter exemplify the transformative power of grace and reconciliation. Believers are called to emulate this forgiveness, recognizing that betrayal, while deeply painful, can be redeemed through Christ's love and mercy. Moral Lessons The accounts of betrayal in Scripture serve as cautionary tales, warning against the dangers of envy, greed, and disloyalty. They remind believers of the importance of faithfulness, integrity, and trust in relationships. The Bible encourages believers to remain steadfast in their commitments, to seek reconciliation where betrayal has occurred, and to rely on God's strength to overcome the wounds of treachery. In summary, the theme of betrayal in the Bible is multifaceted, encompassing human sin, divine grace, and the call to forgiveness. It challenges believers to reflect on their own relationships and to strive for faithfulness in their walk with God and others. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Betray.Greek 3860. paradidomi -- to hand over, to give or deliver over, to ... ... Word Origin from para and didomi Definition to hand over, to give or deliver over, to betray NASB Word Usage betray (17), betrayed (10), betraying (9), betrays ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3860.htm - 11k Strong's Hebrew 898. bagad -- to act or deal treacherously... root Definition to act or deal treacherously NASB Word Usage acted deceitfully (1), acted treacherously (2), betrayed (1), betrays (1), deal (1), deal ... /hebrew/898.htm - 6k Library How Izates was Betrayed by his Own Subjects, and Fought against by ... Polycarp is Betrayed by a Servant. Betrayed by a Kiss. Jesus Betrayed, Arrested, and Forsaken. In the Next Place, that He was Betrayed by those whom He Called ... Those who have Fled and Been Apprehended, or have Been Betrayed by ... Engagement Between Valens and Procopius Near Nacolia in Phrygia ... The Case of Job who was Tempted by the Devil and of the Lord who ... Vespasian, when He had Taken the City Gadaea Marches to Jotapata. ... Of the Method in which the Four Evangelists are Shown to be at one ... Thesaurus Betrayed (31 Occurrences)... (imp. & pp) of Betray. Multi-Version Concordance Betrayed (31 Occurrences). Matthew 10:4 Simon the Canaanite; and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him. ... /b/betrayed.htm - 15k Betrays (13 Occurrences) Betrayal (1 Occurrence) Betray (29 Occurrences) Kiss (39 Occurrences) Wo (92 Occurrences) Woe (102 Occurrences) Iscariot (11 Occurrences) Weren't (25 Occurrences) Whomsoever (28 Occurrences) Resources What is the significance of Judas betraying Jesus with a kiss? | GotQuestions.orgHow many prophecies did Jesus fulfill? | GotQuestions.org How can I overcome the pain of betrayal? | GotQuestions.org Betrayed: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Betrayed (31 Occurrences)Matthew 10:4 Matthew 17:22 Matthew 20:18 Matthew 26:2 Matthew 26:24 Matthew 26:25 Matthew 26:45 Matthew 26:48 Matthew 27:3 Matthew 27:4 Mark 3:19 Mark 9:31 Mark 10:33 Mark 14:21 Mark 14:41 Mark 14:44 Luke 9:44 Luke 21:16 Luke 22:22 Luke 24:7 John 12:4 John 18:2 John 18:5 Acts 7:52 1 Corinthians 11:23 2 Samuel 19:26 Psalms 73:15 Isaiah 33:1 Jeremiah 12:6 Lamentations 1:2 Lamentations 1:19 Subtopics Related Terms |