The answer is: With a kiss

Luke 22:47-48 - Judas thought he could hide his betrayal in a sign of affection.

Judas Iscariot's betrayal is one of the most infamous acts in history, all sealed with a kiss—an act that should denote love and friendship. Yet, in this case, it became the ultimate symbol of treachery. Picture this: in the shadows of the olive trees in the Garden of Gethsemane, Judas approaches Jesus, the light of the world, under the cover of night. A kiss, an act meant to communicate closeness, was twisted into a weapon of betrayal.

This demonstrates an intriguing aspect of human nature. Often, we disguise our deepest intentions behind conventional expressions of care—whether it’s a polite smile or, soberingly, a kiss. Names have meanings, too. “Judas” likely ties back to a Hebrew name that echoes “thanksgiving.” Ironically, instead of gratitude for divine insight and fellowship with Jesus, we see Judas offering the ultimate—or perhaps one of the worst—betrayals in history.

This incident echoes in various cultures and texts, one example being the phrase “the kiss of death,” highlighting how betrayal can come from familiar places and people. Judas’s actions raise important questions about authenticity, loyalty, and the conflict between personal ambition and moral integrity. Furthermore, many biblical scholars ponder how Judas fits into the overarching narrative of redemption, considering both foreknowledge of his betrayal and his later regret. Judas’s story serves as a canvas illustrating the subtle art of deceit mingled with deeper, tragic complications of trust and love in relational dynamics. The anguish surrounding his actions adds depth to the upcoming resurrection narrative, signaling that betrayal is often richly intertwined with redemption.