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

In the dramatic narrative of John 13, when Jesus offers the dipped bread to Judas, it's not just a casual act—it's loaded with symbolism. The bread itself represents fellowship and trust, as sharing bread, especially at a meal, is a significant act of communion in Jewish culture. By selecting Judas for this gesture, Jesus highlights the depth of betrayal; the betrayer is eating from the same dish. It refreshingly points out that despite Judas’s impending treachery, Jesus extends his love until the very end.

In Biblical lore, the act of sharing bread is reminiscent of other important moments, such as the Last Supper itself—a banquet that Jews still commemorate today with the Passover meal. Interestingly, the “dipped bread” tradition can also be tied to the biblical practices of hospitality, where food signifies joy and trust amongst friends.

Moreover, this scene echoes themes from larger prophetic texts, like Psalm 41:9, which foretells betrayal by a close friend. Such layers add richness to the Judeo-Christian narrative, challenging us to consider the complexities of trust and friendship alongside the harsh realities of human experience. It teaches us to reflect on our own vows of love toward others and the implications of betraying those close to us—whether in action, attitude, or intention.