🪙 Thirty Pieces of Silver: The Cost of Betrayal 🥀
Definition:
Thirty pieces of silver: The ultimate symbol of treason. As per the Bible, thirty pieces of silver were the amount paid to Judas Iscariot for betraying Jesus Christ (Matthew 26:15). Ever since, this term symbolizes betrayal and treachery.
Similar Terms and Expressions:
- Benedict Arnold: Referring to the infamous American Revolutionary War traitor.
- Brutus moment: Referring to the betrayal by Marcus Junius Brutus towards Julius Caesar.
- Sell one’s soul: To betray one’s principles for personal gain.
- Snake in the grass: Someone who is treacherous in a sneaky manner.
Synonyms:
- Treachery
- Backstabbing
- Double-cross
- Perfidy
Antonyms:
- Loyalty
- Fidelity
- Allegiance
- Devotion
Humor-Filled Quote:
“Thirty pieces of silver? Inflation’s a killer—I’d probably need to betray someone for at least an iPhone 15 nowadays!” – I. M. Faithless
Proverbs:
- “He who sows betrayal shall reap distrust.”
- “Better an open enemy than a false friend.”
Literary References:
- “The Divine Comedy” by Dante Alighieri: Betrayers like Judas are cast into the lowest circle of Hell.
- “Julius Caesar” by William Shakespeare: “Et tu, Brute?"—the moment of ultimate betrayal.
Suggested Reading:
- “The Traitor’s Wife” by Allison Pataki: A novel about Benedict Arnold’s wife and the infamous betrayal.
- “The Art of Betrayal” by Gordon Corera: A rich history of British intelligence services.
Suggested Movies:
- “The Departed” (2006): A gripping tale of double agents and betrayal.
- “Judas and the Black Messiah” (2021): Chronicles the betrayal within the Black Panther Party.
Music:
- “Back Stabbers” by The O’Jays: A classic song touching upon betrayal.
- “Judas” by Lady Gaga: A modern pop representation of treachery.
Poetry:
- “A Judas amongst us”: A fictitious poem about detecting betrayal in close quarters.
### Which historical figure is synonymous with betrayal?
- [ ] Napoleon Bonaparte
- [ ] Alexander the Great
- [x] Judas Iscariot
- [ ] Aristotle
> **Explanation:** Judas Iscariot is the biblical figure who betrayed Jesus Christ for thirty pieces of silver, making him synonymous with betrayal.
### The phrase "a snake in the grass" refers to what trait?
- [ ] Laziness
- [ ] Kindness
- [x] Betrayal
- [ ] Intelligence
> **Explanation:** "A snake in the grass" denotes someone who is treacherous and who betrays others.
### What does "selling one's soul" mean?
- [x] Betraying one's principles for personal gain
- [ ] Donating one's possessions
- [ ] Aspiring to spiritual growth
- [ ] Writing an autobiography
> **Explanation:** "Selling one's soul" refers to betraying one's principles, typically for some form of material or personal gain.
### True or False: Benedict Arnold is primarily known for his loyal service to the American Revolution.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** Benedict Arnold is known for his notorious act of treason during the American Revolution.
### Which of these is a real idiom?
- [x] Thirty pieces of silver
- [ ] Fifty baubles of bronze
- [ ] A hundred gold glimmers
- [ ] A dozen diamond dreams
> **Explanation:** "Thirty pieces of silver" is a real idiom rooted in the Bible, symbolizing betrayal.
Lastly, remember that trust is delicate, and the fabric of friendships is woven with threads of loyalty and faith. Betrayal may earn you wealth or power momentarily, but it costs a fortune in respect and dignity. Farewell, and may integrity be your guiding star! ✨
