Is betrayal the worst sin?

Is betrayal the worst sin?

Betrayal, the intentional breaking of trust and loyalty, can be considered the worst sin due to its devastating consequences on relationships, families, and societies. It may be seen as the ultimate selfish act – disregarding long-term consequences for immediate personal gratification.

When researching how to define “beauty”, a definition that piqued me is how beauty is acquiring “a surplus of meaning”. If we reverse this and apply this to betrayal, it is heartbreaking to think betrayal can be a “surplus of hurt”.

When a couple falls in love with the full beauty of each other, they acquire a surplus of meaning – the couple emerges as a new entity greater than the sum of their individuality. Both individuals are better off compared to before.

But what about betrayal? We can argue that the hurt it brings not only dissolves the supposed loving relationship but also tramples on the dignity of the aggrieved. The wronged is in a worse space than when the relationship started.

The great challenge for the Christian: can we learn to forgive and love despite betrayals? It is not easy. But at least we have a model in Christ who was willing to forgive.

Judas failing to forgive himself for his own betrayal is another story. In this sense, betrayal harms not only the betrayed but also the betrayer.

Matthew 26:14-25. What will you give me, and I will deliver him unto you? But they gave him thirty pieces of silver. And from thenceforth he sought opportunity to betray him.

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 2023-095: APRIL 5, 2023]