Ἰσκαριώτης, Ἰσκαριώθ (Iskariōtēs, Iskariōth)
Iskariōtēs, Iskariōth
Iscariot
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 12 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The name Iskariōtēs identifies Judas as "the Iscariot," a surname attached to distinguish him from other disciples named Simon or Judas. Lexicons suggest this title likely derives from Hebrew roots meaning "man of Kerioth," pointing to his origin in the town of Kerioth rather than describing a personal trait.
This geographical label appears consistently across the Gospels, particularly in Matthew, Mark, and John, where it accompanies the accounts of his betrayal. By anchoring Judas to a specific place, the texts provide a concrete historical detail that grounds the narrative in real-world locations.
Translators retain "Iscariot" as a proper noun because its exact etymology remains debated. While some see it as a reference to Kerioth, others propose different linguistic origins, but the consistent usage across Scripture confirms its role as a unique identifier for the betrayer of Jesus.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Iscariot serves as a historical marker for Judas, distinguishing him from other disciples who shared similar names. It likely points to his hometown of Kerioth, grounding the biblical narrative in real geography rather than abstract theology. This detail reminds us that the events of the Gospels happened to actual people in specific places.
While the title identifies his origin, it also highlights the tragedy of his choice. Despite being chosen as one of the twelve and witnessing Jesus’ miracles, he still chose betrayal. This shows that proximity to holy things does not guarantee faithfulness. The story invites us to examine our own hearts, ensuring our commitment is rooted in genuine love for Christ rather than mere association.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 12 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Iscariot7×
- Iscariot;2×
- Iscariot,2×
- Iscariot.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Ἰσκαριώτης3×
- Ἰσκαριὼθ2×
- Ἰσκαριώτου·1×
- Ἰσκαριώτου.1×
- Ἰσκαριώτου,1×
- Ἰσκαριώτης·1×
- Ἰσκαριώτης,1×
- Ἰσκαριώτην1×
- Ἰσκαριώθ,1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 10:4
Simon the Zealot; and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him.
This verse lists Judas Iscariot among the twelve apostles, establishing his initial role and authority before his fall.
-
Mark 14:10
Judas Iscariot, who was one of the twelve, went away to the chief priests, that he might deliver him to them.
Here the title identifies the specific individual who initiated the conspiracy to hand Jesus over to the religious leaders.
-
John 6:71
Now he spoke of Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, for it was he who would betray him, being one of the twelve.
Jesus explicitly names Judas as the son of Simon Iscariot, revealing his foreknowledge of the coming betrayal from the start.