What did Jesus hand to Judas before he left to betray him?

Oh, the drama of that moment! In John 13:26, we see Jesus handing Judas a piece of bread that he had dipped in the dish. Isn’t it fascinating that one of the most pivotal actions in the Bible is done over a simple meal? During this supper, known as the Last Supper, Jesus was surrounded by his trusted disciples, yet betrayal was at hand.

Bread has significant Biblical symbolism. Think back to Exodus, where bread (manna) represents God's provision for the Israelites in the wilderness. Here, Jesus using bread as part of the way he designates Judas encapsulates a rich layer of meaning! It's almost ironic—bread, a symbol of sharing and community, being fragmented by an act of treachery.

Interestingly, revelatory echoes abound elsewhere in the Bible. For example, in Zechariah 13:6, there's a prophecy of betrayal that Emma warns about. It seamlessly parallels this dramatic moment when trust is broken amongst the closest of followers.

Also, consider how Judas’s actions fulfil the larger narrative of sacrifice and redemption. While Judas is often painted as the villain of the story, many jostle with the idea that his betrayal was, in its own unwanted way, part of a greater plan.

Thus, Judas's act may not only evoke feelings of disappointment but should also remind us of these intertwining themes of community and complexity woven throughout scripture!