Dictionary Home » Culture » Judas Iscariot

Judas Iscariot cultural definition

The Apostle who betrayed Jesus to the authorities for thirty pieces of silver. When soldiers came to arrest Jesus, Judas identified their victim by kissing him. The next day, driven by guilt, Judas hanged himself.

  • Figuratively, a “Judas” is a betrayer, especially one who betrays a friend.
  • A “Judas kiss” is an act of seeming friendship that conceals some treachery.

Learn more about Judas Iscariot

link/cite print suggestion box