Matthew 26:49

"Now he who betrayed him had given them a sign, saying, “Whoever I kiss, he is the one. Seize him.”"

Key Reflection

In Matthew 26:49, the betrayer Judas provides a distinctive identifier for Jesus to the arresting party by stating, "Whoever I kiss, he is the one. Seize him." This act of betrayal was culturally significant as it was common in first-century Palestine for greetings and expressions of peace to include a kiss, making this gesture a clear sign to those who were looking for Jesus. Judas' use of such a familiar yet surreptitious gesture underscores both his intimate familiarity with Jesus and the shocking nature of his treachery.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 49. Hail, Master. The word translated hail, here means, to rejoice, to have joy; and also to have cause of joy. It thus expresses the joy which one friend has when he meets another, especially after an absence. It was used by the Jews and Greeks as a mode of salutation among friends. It would here seem to express the joy of Judas at finding his Master, and again being with him. Master. In the original, Rabbi. See Barnes "Mt 23:7". Kissed him. Gave him the common salutation of friends, when meeting after absence. This mode of salutation was more common among eastern nations than with us.

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