Book of Matthew - Chapter 26 - Verse 23

When Jesus said, "He that dippeth his hand with me in the dish, the same shall betray me," he was referring to the betrayal he would face at the hands of one of his own disciples. In biblical times, sharing a meal and dipping bread into a common dish was a gesture of trust and friendship. By sharing this intimate moment with Jesus, the betrayer was symbolically breaking that trust and turning against him. This verse highlights the ultimate act of betrayal by someone who was close to Jesus. The act of dipping in the dish signified a close bond and fellowship, making the betrayal even more significant and hurtful. Jesus knew that one of his own would turn against him, fulfilling the prophecy and leading to his ultimate sacrifice for the sins of humanity.

One theological interpretation of this verse from the Bible is that it refers to the betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot. The act of dipping bread in a common dish was a sign of friendship and fellowship in ancient times. By sharing the dish with Jesus, Judas was symbolically betraying their friendship and trust. This interpretation emphasizes the personal and relational aspect of Judas' betrayal, highlighting the deep emotional impact of his actions on Jesus.

Word studies on the phrase "dippeth his hand" can provide further insight into the meaning of the verse. The act of dipping one's hand in a dish signifies a close bond and intimate connection. It is a gesture of sharing and solidarity. In this context, Jesus' statement may be understood as a poignant reminder of the impending betrayal, using a familiar and everyday action to convey a profound message. By examining the nuances of the words used in this verse, we can gain a deeper understanding of the significance of the events leading up to Jesus' crucifixion.