Recently I looked up the word ‘Iscariot’.

As in Judas Iscariot: a very well know player in the passion account. It opened up some ideas about him that I hadn’t considered before.

I knew already that the word Iscariot potentially associated Judas with a group of rebels and was reminded that if you play around with the Latin version of the name you could end up with the label “dagger men”. If you look into them, they sound like an ancient version of the razor gang wars.

Apparently Iscariot could also be a reworking of the Jewish phrase ‘man from Kerioth’ which is a city mentioned in the Old Testament.

This could also indicate that Iscariot means ‘man of the city’ and it was this that I found most interesting. It fleshed out Judas’ character a bit more. He became this politically savvy player who contrasts with many of the other disciples, such as the fishermen.

It rendered Judas with a bit more sophistication than how he is usually portrayed.

However, his usual portrayal as a backstabbing friend is still absolutely valid.

Most people have experienced the pain of a seemingly loyal friend turn against them.

The friend might give you great information when you’re in a tough spot. Yet leave you to navigate it yourself.

They might present something as the best option. Yet they know it’s a terrible option.

They might have the power and privilege to clear your reputation. Yet never take action.

When a friend turns against you, it’s highly disconcerting. It really shakes you up.

The cross shows us just how thankful we should be for all that Jesus has done, including shouldering the weight of a friend who makes themselves an enemy in some of the darkest times of life.

Yours playing with language,

Alison