Betrayal by allies is a recurring theme in the Bible, illustrating the frailty of human loyalty and the profound impact of treachery. This theme is evident in various narratives, where trusted companions or allied nations turn against those they were expected to support. Such acts of betrayal often serve as a backdrop for divine intervention and the ultimate triumph of God's purposes.

Old Testament Instances

1. Ahithophel's Betrayal of David: One of the most poignant examples of betrayal by an ally is found in the account of King David and Ahithophel. Ahithophel, a trusted advisor, sided with Absalom during his rebellion against David. This act of treachery is recorded in 2 Samuel 15:12, where it states, "While Absalom was offering sacrifices, he sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David’s counselor, to come from his city of Giloh. So the conspiracy gained strength, and Absalom’s following kept increasing." David's response to this betrayal is captured in his prayer, "O LORD, please turn the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness" (2 Samuel 15:31).

2. Edom's Betrayal of Judah: The nation of Edom, descended from Esau, is frequently depicted as an ally turned adversary. In the book of Obadiah, Edom is condemned for its betrayal during the Babylonian invasion of Jerusalem. Obadiah 1:10-11 states, "Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame and cut off forever. On the day you stood aloof while strangers carried off his wealth and foreigners entered his gates and cast lots for Jerusalem, you were like one of them."

3. The Philistines and Samson: Samson's relationship with the Philistines, particularly through Delilah, highlights personal betrayal. Delilah, whom Samson loved, was bribed by the Philistine rulers to discover the secret of his strength. Judges 16:18 recounts, "When Delilah realized that he had told her his whole heart, she sent word to the lords of the Philistines, saying, 'Come up once more, for he has revealed his whole heart to me.' Then the lords of the Philistines came to her, bringing the money in their hands."

New Testament Instances

1. Judas Iscariot's Betrayal of Jesus: The most infamous act of betrayal in the New Testament is that of Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve apostles, who betrayed Jesus Christ for thirty pieces of silver. This act is foretold in the Psalms and fulfilled in the Gospels. Matthew 26:14-16 records, "Then one of the Twelve, the one called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and asked, 'What are you willing to give me if I hand Him over to you?' And they set out for him thirty pieces of silver. So from that time on Judas looked for an opportunity to betray Jesus."

2. Peter's Denial: While not a betrayal in the traditional sense, Peter's denial of Jesus during His trial can be seen as a form of personal betrayal. Despite his earlier protestations of loyalty, Peter denied knowing Jesus three times, as Jesus had predicted. Luke 22:61-62 describes the moment: "And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: 'Before the rooster crows today, you will deny Me three times.' And he went outside and wept bitterly."

Theological Implications

Betrayal by allies in the Bible underscores the imperfection of human relationships and the potential for sin even among those who are close. It serves as a reminder of the need for reliance on God rather than solely on human alliances. The narratives of betrayal often highlight God's sovereignty and His ability to bring about His purposes despite human failings. They also point to the ultimate betrayal and redemption found in the passion of Christ, where human treachery is met with divine grace and forgiveness.