New Testament
Luke 22:48
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But Jesus said to him, "Judas, are you betraying the Son of man with a kiss?"
Compare translations
But Jesus said unto him, Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?
What Luke 22:48 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus confronts Judas Iscariot, who has just betrayed him by identifying him with a kiss. This act of betrayal is particularly poignant because a kiss is typically a sign of affection and friendship. Jesus' question highlights the gravity of Judas' actions, as he is betraying the very Son of Man, a title that signifies Jesus' role as the Messiah. The use of a kiss, a gesture meant to convey love and loyalty, underscores the deep betrayal and the tragic irony of the situation. Jesus is aware of Judas' intentions and the impending events that will lead to his crucifixion. This moment captures the tension between loyalty and betrayal, illustrating the complexities of human relationships and the fulfillment of prophecy regarding Jesus' suffering. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of choices made in moments of weakness or greed, and the profound impact those choices can have on others.
How to apply Luke 22:48 to your life
This verse challenges us to reflect on our own actions and loyalties. Are there times when we betray our values or those we care about? It encourages us to be mindful of our choices and the impact they have on our relationships, urging us to act with integrity and love.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Arrest (Luke 22:47–53)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jerusalem
David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Luke 22:48
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Luke 22:48
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 22:48 mean?
In Luke 22:48, Jesus questions Judas Iscariot about his betrayal, highlighting the irony of using a kiss, a sign of affection, to identify him. This moment emphasizes the depth of Judas' betrayal and the impending events leading to Jesus' crucifixion.
What is the significance of the kiss in Luke 22:48?
The kiss in Luke 22:48 is significant because it symbolizes betrayal disguised as affection. It illustrates the tragic irony of Judas' actions, as he uses a gesture meant for love to betray the Son of Man.
How does Luke 22:48 relate to themes of betrayal?
Luke 22:48 directly relates to themes of betrayal by showcasing Judas' choice to betray Jesus with a kiss. This act contrasts the expected loyalty of a friend with the harsh reality of betrayal.
What can we learn from Luke 22:48?
From Luke 22:48, we learn about the consequences of our choices and the importance of integrity in our relationships. It serves as a reminder to reflect on our actions and their impact on others.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.