Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, the theme of betrayal is a significant and recurring motif, often highlighting the frailty of human loyalty and the consequences of sin. Betrayers are individuals who, through deceit or treachery, violate trust and loyalty, often leading to profound spiritual and relational consequences.Judas Iscariot The most infamous betrayer in the Bible is Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. Judas's betrayal is a pivotal event in the New Testament, leading to the arrest and crucifixion of Jesus. The Gospel of Matthew records Judas's act of betrayal: "Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests and asked, 'What are you willing to give me if I hand Him over to you?' So they set out for him thirty pieces of silver" (Matthew 26:14-15). Judas's betrayal is marked by his identification of Jesus with a kiss, a gesture of friendship, which he used to signal Jesus to the arresting soldiers (Matthew 26:48-49). Ahithophel In the Old Testament, Ahithophel is another notable betrayer. He was a trusted advisor to King David but later sided with Absalom during Absalom's rebellion against his father, David. Ahithophel's betrayal is seen as a significant threat to David's reign, as his counsel was highly esteemed. However, his advice was ultimately thwarted by Hushai, another of David's advisors, leading to Ahithophel's demise (2 Samuel 15-17). Delilah Delilah, though not a betrayer in the traditional sense of loyalty to a leader or friend, is another figure associated with betrayal. She was instrumental in the downfall of Samson, a judge of Israel, by coaxing him into revealing the secret of his strength. Delilah's betrayal was motivated by a bribe from the Philistine rulers, who promised her silver in exchange for Samson's secret (Judges 16:4-5). Joseph's Brothers The account of Joseph and his brothers is a profound example of familial betrayal. Joseph's brothers, driven by jealousy, sold him into slavery, deceiving their father, Jacob, into believing that Joseph had been killed by a wild animal (Genesis 37:26-28). This act of betrayal set in motion a series of events that ultimately led to Joseph's rise to power in Egypt and the eventual reconciliation with his family. Themes and Lessons Betrayal in the Bible often serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive power of sin and the importance of faithfulness. It underscores the human propensity to fall short of divine standards and the need for redemption and forgiveness. The accounts of betrayers also highlight God's sovereignty and ability to bring about His purposes, even through human treachery. For instance, Joseph's betrayal by his brothers ultimately led to the preservation of the Israelites during a time of famine, demonstrating God's providential care and the fulfillment of His promises (Genesis 50:20). Spiritual Implications The spiritual implications of betrayal are profound, as it often leads to a rupture in relationships and a departure from God's will. The Bible calls believers to a higher standard of loyalty and integrity, as seen in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. The New Testament exhorts Christians to "be devoted to one another in brotherly love" and to "honor one another above yourselves" (Romans 12:10), emphasizing the importance of faithfulness and trust within the community of believers. In summary, the accounts of betrayers in the Bible serve as powerful reminders of the consequences of sin and the need for repentance and reconciliation. They also point to the ultimate betrayal of Jesus Christ, which, though tragic, was used by God to bring about the salvation of humanity. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BETRAYERSbe-tra'-ers (prodotai, "betrayers," "traitors"): Stephen charged the Jews with being betrayers of the Righteous One (Acts 7:52) i.e. as having made Judas' act their own; compare Luke 6:16: "Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor;" 2 Timothy 3:4, "traitors." Greek 4273. prodotes -- a betrayer ... Word Origin from prodidomi Definition a betrayer NASB Word Usage betrayers (1), traitor (1), treacherous (1). betrayer, traitor. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4273.htm - 6k 4293. prokataggello -- to announce beforehand Library 1 John v. 3-Jan Abstain from the Poison of Heretics. Conclusion, the Romans Owe not their Imperial Power to their Gods ... "Example of Life and Instruction of Manners. " When I Heard This, I was in Doubt what to Do... Epistle Xlvi. Cyprian's Answer to Cornelius, Congratulating Him on ... 2 Timothy iii. 4-Jan Stephen the First Christian Martyr That Astrology, Soothsaying, and Similar Arts are the Invention of ... Revolt and Extraordinary Death of Procopius. Eleusius, Bishop of ... Thesaurus Betrayers (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia BETRAYERS. ... Multi-Version Concordance Betrayers (1 Occurrence). Acts 7:52 Which of the prophets didn't your fathers persecute? ... /b/betrayers.htm - 7k Foretold (18 Occurrences) Murderers (9 Occurrences) Murdered (25 Occurrences) Predicted (10 Occurrences) Previously (44 Occurrences) Persecuted (34 Occurrences) Persecute (48 Occurrences) Beforehand (38 Occurrences) Betrayer (5 Occurrences) Resources Why should I forgive? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Betrayers (1 Occurrence)Acts 7:52 Subtopics Related Terms |