Devine Scripture

Matthew 26:14

What does Matthew 26:14 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 26:14 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 26:14 means

Judas Iscariot, identified as one of the twelve, goes to the chief priests. This brief report introduces the betrayal plot from within Jesus’ circle. Judas is named, showing the tragic irony that a close follower will conspire with the enemy. His initiative in contacting the priests shows premeditation. The verse sets Judas apart by naming him and signaling that the opposition will be aided from within, a detail that deepens the tragedy and highlights human responsibility in the events leading to Jesus’ arrest.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

Then one of the twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests,

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests,

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

Then one of the twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests,

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

Then one of the twelve, who was named Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said,

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

Then one of the twelve, who is called Judas Iscariot, having gone unto the chief priests, said,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Then went one of the twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, to the chief priests.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

Then one of the twelve, he who was called Judas Iscariote, went to the chief priests

Context

Following the commending of the woman, Matthew shifts abruptly to betrayal—introducing Judas’ covert move. The contrast between worship and treachery is stark. This verse begins the narrative thread that explains how Jesus will be handed over despite the leaders’ earlier reluctance to act openly during the feast. It prepares readers for the mechanics of betrayal and the financial exchange that follows.

v.13Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, that also which this woman hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her.

v.14This passage

v.15and said, What are ye willing to give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they weighed unto him thirty pieces of silver.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • John 6:70

    Jesus answered them, Did not I choose you the twelve, and one of you is a devil?

  • Matthew 10:4

    Simon the Cananæan, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him.

  • Acts 1:16

    Brethren, it was needful that the scripture should be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spake before by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who was guide to them that took Jesus.

  • John 18:2

    Now Judas also, who betrayed him, knew the place: for Jesus oft-times resorted thither with his disciples.

  • Luke 22:3

    And Satan entered into Judas who was called Iscariot, being of the number of the twelve.

  • Matthew 27:3

    Then Judas, who betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders,

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