Simon, identified as the father of Judas Iscariot, is a figure mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the context of the betrayal of Jesus Christ. While the Scriptures provide limited information about Simon himself, his significance is primarily derived from his son, Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus and the one who ultimately betrayed Him.

Biblical References:

The primary reference to Simon as the father of Judas Iscariot is found in the Gospel of John. In John 6:71 , it states, "He was speaking about Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot. For although Judas was one of the Twelve, he was later to betray Jesus." This passage highlights the familial connection between Simon and Judas, emphasizing Judas's role in the narrative of Jesus's passion.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The name "Simon" was a common Jewish name during the Second Temple period, and it is found frequently in the New Testament. The designation "Iscariot" is often interpreted as a geographical identifier, possibly indicating that Simon and his family were from Kerioth, a town in Judea. This would distinguish Judas from other individuals named Judas, a common name at the time.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, Simon's mention as the father of Judas Iscariot serves to underscore the human lineage and familial ties that are part of the Gospel narratives. While Simon himself is not depicted as having a direct role in the events leading to Jesus's crucifixion, his son Judas's actions are pivotal in the fulfillment of the prophecies concerning the Messiah's suffering and death.

The relationship between Simon and Judas also invites reflection on the mystery of human agency and divine sovereignty. Judas's betrayal, though foreknown by Jesus, was an act of free will, and Simon's role as his father places him within the broader tapestry of God's redemptive plan. The Scriptures do not provide details about Simon's own faith or character, leaving his personal account largely untold.

Legacy and Reflection:

In Christian thought, Simon's legacy is inextricably linked to the narrative of Judas Iscariot. The mention of Simon as Judas's father serves as a reminder of the complex interplay of family, identity, and destiny within the biblical account. It also highlights the profound impact that individual choices can have within the divine narrative, as seen in Judas's decision to betray Jesus.

While Simon remains a shadowy figure in the biblical text, his mention invites believers to consider the weight of parental influence and the unpredictable paths that children may take. The account of Simon and Judas ultimately points to the greater account of redemption, where even acts of betrayal are woven into the fabric of God's salvific purposes.John 6:71
He spoke of Judas Iscariot the son of Simon: for he it was that should betray him, being one of the twelve.
Nave's Topical Index

John 12:4
Then said one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, which should betray him,
Nave's Topical Index

John 13:2,26
And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him;
Nave's Topical Index

Feeding Upon Christ.
... Simon, the father of Judas, is called Iscariot as well as his son, which shows
the word is not a surname but evidently designates place. ...
/.../johnson/the new testament commentary vol iii john/feeding upon christ.htm

After Prayer Jesus Selects Twelve Apostles.
... We do not know the James who was the father of Judas, and of ... John wrote later than
Matthew and Mark) by the name Judas"John 14:22.] ^a 4 Simon the Cananaean ...
/.../mcgarvey/the four-fold gospel/xli after prayer jesus selects.htm

And Judas Iscariot
... Deceiving his own father, his sons in turn deceived him ... Simon Peter therefore beckoned
to him, that he should ask ... the sop, he gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son ...
//christianbookshelf.org/chapman/and judas iscariot/and judas iscariot.htm

John Chapter xiii. 5-Jan
... having taken place, [1129] and the devil having now put into the heart of Judas
Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray Him, [Jesus] knowing that the Father had given ...
/.../augustine/homilies on the gospel of john/tractate lv john chapter xiii.htm

Whether Christ Gave his Body to Judas?
... it with you new in the kingdom of My Father." From this ... bread, He gave it to Judas,
the son of Simon the Iscariot [Vulg.: 'to Judas Iscariot, the son ...
/.../aquinas/summa theologica/whether christ gave his body.htm

Thursday --The Day of Fellowship.
... And during supper, the devil having already put into the heart of Judas Iscariot,
Simon's son, to betray him, Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all ...
//christianbookshelf.org/barton/his last week/thursdaythe day of fellowship.htm

Jesus Washeth his Disciples' Feet
... And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot,
Simon's son, to betray him. Jesus knowing that the Father had given all ...
/.../the life of jesus christ for the young/jesus washeth his disciples feet.htm

Jesus Washing the Disciples' Feet.
... And during supper, the devil having already put into the heart of Judas Iscariot,
Simon's son, to betray him, Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all ...
//christianbookshelf.org/barton/his life/jesus washing the disciples feet.htm

The Paschal Meal. Jesus Washes the Disciples' Feet.
... his readers.] the devil having already put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's
son, to betray him [see p.642], 3 Jesus, knowing that the Father had given ...
/.../mcgarvey/the four-fold gospel/cxviii the paschal meal jesus.htm

And one of his Disciples was Sitting...
... [3096] And Judas took the bread ... [3124] Simon Cephas answered ... [3134] The stations
[3135] in my Father's house are many, else I should [31] have told [3136] you. ...
/.../hogg/the diatessaron of tatian/section xlv and one of.htm

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