And coming, he immediately went up to Him and said, “Rabbi, Rabbi,” and kissed Him.
Judas’s repeated “Rabbi!” was the language of outward respect, but in his heart betrayal was already present. He kisses the One whom he had already sold. This shows how deep the hypocrisy of the human heart can be when it keeps religious words but loses faithfulness. Christ allows this kiss, bearing the full bitterness of human betrayal. His silent patience reveals the Savior’s humility. He does not avoid even that disgrace, but receives it with humility, so that to the very end he may carry out the Father’s saving will.