Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

The question of how Judas Iscariot really died has been a topic of intrigue for many. Some believe that the different versions in the Bible indicate an inaccuracy in the scriptures. However, early theologian Origen saw these "discrepancies" as opportunities for discovery, suggesting that they could reveal deeper truths. Let us delve into the two accounts of Judas' demise found in Matthew 27:1-10 and Acts 1:16-19 to gain a better understanding.

In the Gospel of Matthew, it is established that Judas had already fallen into grave sin by agreeing to betray Jesus to the chief priests. During the Last Supper, Jesus informs his disciples that one of them will betray him. Sorrowfully, they each ask, "Is it I, Lord?" Judas himself asks, "Is it I?" Interestingly, he does not address Jesus as "Lord." Jesus cryptically responds, "You said it."

Following this, Jesus consecrates the bread and wine into his body and blood, and they all partake together, including Judas. This is a significant moment, as St. Paul later explains to the Corinthians that those who partake in an unworthy manner bring judgment upon themselves. Judas, in a state of sin, receives the holiness of Jesus' body and blood into his own body.

Realizing his grave mistake, Judas attempts to recant and returns to the chief priests. However, they refuse to forgive him, as they lack the authority to do so. In despair, Judas hangs himself.

The account in Acts 1:16-18 provides additional details of Judas' death by hanging. It states that he "falls headlong," and his bowels burst, spilling out. These details can be understood in light of the earthquake that occurred when Jesus died on the cross. Judas' fall may be attributed to the rope or the branch breaking due to the seismic activity. As for his bowels bursting, it can be seen as a consequence of receiving the "new wine" of Jesus' body and blood into his sin-filled vessel.

Contrary to the idea of contradiction, these accounts work together to convey a powerful message. Judas' fate serves as a stark contrast to the blessed Virgin Mary, who also received the perfection of God into her body. However, unlike Judas, Mary was prepared and preserved from the moment of her conception to be fit for this gift. She was filled with grace when she received Jesus, whereas Judas was filled with sin. Consequently, his life could not contain the forgiveness of sins that he had not confessed, leading to his bursting and pouring out onto the ground.

In conclusion, the different accounts of Judas' death do not signify an inaccuracy in the Bible but rather offer a poignant reminder. They remind us of the importance of examining ourselves and approaching the sacraments with reverence and repentance. Judas' tragic end serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the need for genuine contrition and the transformative power of God's grace.

Quotations:

- "The more difficult a scriptural riddle is to understand, the more likely it is that the Holy Spirit is poised right there in those very lines of text to show up and reveal the truth of a mystery!" - Origen

- "Is it I, Lord?" - Disciples during the Last Supper

- "You said it." - Jesus to Judas

- "Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup." - St. Paul (1 Cor 11:28)

- "Notice how Judas’ fate stands in sharp contrast to the account of our blessed Mother..."