Introduction:
Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, is infamously known for betraying Jesus to the religious authorities for thirty pieces of silver. His subsequent remorse and tragic end are recorded in the New Testament, providing a somber narrative of guilt, despair, and the consequences of sin.

Biblical Account:
The account of Judas' suicide is primarily found in the Gospel of Matthew. After realizing the gravity of his betrayal, Judas is overcome with remorse. Matthew 27:3-5 states, "When Judas, who had betrayed Him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was filled with remorse and returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders. 'I have sinned by betraying innocent blood,' he said. 'What is that to us?' they replied. 'You bear the responsibility.' So Judas threw the silver into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself."

Theological Implications:
Judas' actions and subsequent suicide have been the subject of extensive theological reflection. His betrayal is often viewed as a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, specifically Psalm 41:9, which speaks of a close friend who betrays. The remorse Judas feels is profound, yet it does not lead him to seek forgiveness or redemption, contrasting with Peter's repentance after denying Christ.

Comparison with Acts:
The Book of Acts provides additional details about Judas' death. Acts 1:18 describes, "With the reward of his wickedness, Judas bought a field; there he fell headlong and burst open in the middle, and all his intestines spilled out." This account complements Matthew's narrative, suggesting that Judas' death was both a physical and spiritual consequence of his betrayal.

Moral and Ethical Considerations:
Judas' suicide raises significant moral and ethical questions. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked sin and the importance of seeking genuine repentance. Judas' inability to find redemption highlights the necessity of turning to God for forgiveness, rather than succumbing to despair.

Historical and Cultural Context:
In the cultural context of the time, suicide was viewed with great stigma, often seen as a dishonorable act. Judas' decision to end his life reflects the depth of his despair and isolation. The field purchased with the blood money, known as the "Field of Blood" (Acts 1:19), became a lasting testament to the consequences of his actions.

Legacy and Interpretation:
Throughout Christian history, Judas has been a symbol of betrayal and lost opportunity for redemption. His account is a powerful reminder of the human capacity for sin and the profound need for divine grace. The narrative of Judas' suicide continues to evoke reflection on the themes of guilt, repentance, and the hope of salvation through Christ.