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Easter Reflections
Why Did Judas Betray Jesus?
Or, what happens when we try to force God’s hand
The name Judas is synonymous with traitor, and maybe rightly so since he is the one who is said to have betrayed Jesus. That led to Jesus’ crucifixion and death and to Judas hanging himself in remorse. A very sad story indeed.
But there is always more to the story than meets the eye. Judas is an essential part of the Easter story, yet he may be misunderstood. There are some other historical writings that could give a different picture of Judas.
There are some things that don’t make sense in the Biblical story. But when Judas is understood in a different way, as a political zealot, it fits together much better. This does not mean the Bible is wrong, it’s just that it leaves some details unanswered.
What doesn’t make sense?
Judas betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver, about a week’s wages. If Judas was out for money the prize would have been much bigger. It is not reasonable to think Judas would have betrayed Jesus for some spending money.
The scriptures say Judas told them where Jesus would be. This part is understandable since there were all kinds of places to hide in and around Jerusalem. Still, Jesus was around a…
