ABSTRACT
There is an irony to any examination of the biblical material concerning Judas, in that it requires attention both to the earliest Christian texts and some of the most recent, namely the work of biblical commentators. This chapter discusses New Testament texts and the exegetical material that is a prerequisite for beginning such a discussion. It offers a close reading of the New Testament references to Judas, bringing to bear 'a good deal of self criticism to filter out later associations'. The chapter then provides an exegesis of the New Testament texts concerning Judas. It discerns the theological issues and difficulties emerging from such exegesis. The first mention of Judas Iscariot in the synoptic gospels occurs in relation to Jesus' nomination of 'the twelve'. The issue of providence has already arisen a number of times in examining Gospel texts relating to Judas.
