Luke 22:47 Meaning and Explanation
“And while he yet spake, behold a multitude, and he that was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them, and drew near unto Jesus to kiss him.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →While Jesus is still speaking, a crowd arrives led by Judas, who approaches to kiss him.
What Does Luke 22:47 Mean?
The sentence of verse 46 is interrupted by torchlight: a multitude - temple officers, servants, and soldiers (John 18:3) - with Judas walking ahead, guiding them to his Master's known praying place (verse 39). The signal he had chosen was a kiss, the customary greeting of a disciple to his teacher.
Luke still calls him 'one of the twelve,' letting the title and the deed grind against each other. The instrument of betrayal is a gesture of love - corruption is always the bending of something good. Jesus, who knew the place was known and could have withdrawn, stands and receives the approach. The hour has come, and he meets it awake and praying.
Frequently Asked Questions About Luke 22:47
What does Luke 22:47 mean?
While Jesus is still speaking, a crowd arrives led by Judas, who approaches to kiss him.