This is because the intellect (represented by Peter in this case) can receive truth and be reformed. Therefore, we read that although Peter “wept bitterly,” he did not end his life. Even though it may reason falsely, if it can be separated from the evil will, it can be reformed. Peter, on the other hand, represents an aspect of our intellect. This is why Judas, who in this episode represents our inherited evil nature, must die. Also referred to as “the old man,” evil desires must be completely expelled they cannot be converted into good desires. The contrast between Peter’s bitter weeping and Judas’ suicidal death represents the difference between the old understanding (the false beliefs that we held) and the old will (the evil desires that generate false beliefs). Feeling utterly devastated, Judas casts the thirty pieces of silver on the floor of the temple, and goes off to hang himself (27:5). While Peter weeps bitterly, Judas goes much further. They therefore reject Judas’ offer.įully aware of his betrayal, Judas is overcome with despair. For them, the real issue is not the money, but rather their concern about Jesus’ rising influence with the people. They have no interest in taking back the money in exchange for Jesus’ release. The religious leaders, however, reject Judas’ offer. Deeply remorseful, but spiritually awakened, he tries to assuage his guilt by returning the thirty pieces of silver - the “blood-money” the religious leaders paid Judas for agreeing to deliver Jesus to them. Conscience-stricken, he says, “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood” (27:4). When Jesus is captured, bound and carried away to Pilate, Judas awakens to the reality of what he has done. In this next episode, something similar happens for Judas. At the end of the previous episode, Peter awoke to the reality of his unfaithfulness, and wept bitterly.
In each of our lives, “morning” represents a state of clarity in which we “wake up” and see truth clearly - especially the truth about ourselves. This is contained in the first words of the next episode: “When morning came….” (27:1).
The crowing of the rooster announces the end of the night but it also heralds the dawning of a new day - a time of spiritual awakening. The old will must die, but a new understanding can be raised up And throwing down the silver in the temple, he departed, and going away hanged himself. Saying, “I have sinned, in that I have delivered up innocent blood.” But they said, “What to us? Thou shalt see.”ĥ. Then Judas, who betrayed Him, seeing that He was condemned, being remorseful, returned the thirty silver to the chief priests and the elders,Ĥ. And binding Him, they led away, and delivered Him up to Pontius Pilate the governor.ģ. And when it was morning, all the chief priests and the elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put Him to death Ģ.