Judas
Name Origin & Meaning
The Greek form of 'Yehudah' (Judah), meaning 'praised.' Judas Iscariot shares a name with the tribe of the Messiah he betrayed — a cruel irony that makes theological commentary redundant. Yet the name itself is praise, and in every other bearer — Judas son of James, Judas Barsabbas, Jude the brother of Jesus — the name's original glory is restored.
First Biblical Appearance
“And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master; and kissed him.”
Judas's betrayal kiss in Gethsemane — the moment his name became synonymous with treachery.
Biblical Significance
Judas Iscariot was the treasurer of the twelve who betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver — the price of a slave. His kiss in the garden identified Jesus to the arresting soldiers. He returned the money in remorse but hanged himself before witnessing the resurrection. His story is the supreme biblical warning that proximity to Jesus does not guarantee transformation; only surrender does. Three other New Testament figures named Judas demonstrate the name's redemptive possibilities.
Notable Bearers
- Judas Iscariot
- Judas son of James (Thaddaeus)
- Jude brother of Jesus
Personality & Character
Divine unity and new beginnings — the number of God's oneness and leadership
Spiritual symbolism drawn from Scripture and tradition
Modern Variants
A Blessing for This Name
May you never mistake proximity to Jesus for surrender to Him. May you bring every shadow in your heart to the light of repentance — and may you find, unlike Judas, that it is never too late to run toward the resurrection rather than away from it.