Leonardo's Last Supper: Identifying the Betrayer

How can one identify which disciple will betray Jesus in Leonardo's Last Supper?

A. Judas is shown with a halo

B. Judas clutches a bag of money, and is seen spilling the salt

C. Judas is absent

Answer:

The disciple who will betray Jesus in Leonardo's Last Supper can be identified as Judas Iscariot through various symbolic depictions.

In Leonardo's Last Supper, Judas Iscariot is depicted in a way that signifies his role as the betrayer of Jesus. Firstly, Judas is not shown with a halo, unlike the other disciples, indicating his lack of righteousness. This serves as a visual cue to differentiate him from the rest of the disciples.

Secondly, Judas is often portrayed clutching a bag of money, symbolizing his greed and the payment he received for betraying Jesus. This detail highlights the materialistic motivation behind his actions.

Lastly, Judas is sometimes shown spilling the salt, a symbolic gesture associated with treachery and betrayal. The act of spilling salt has historically been regarded as an omen of bad luck, further emphasizing Judas's deceitful nature.

These symbolic depictions collectively help viewers of Leonardo's Last Supper to identify Judas Iscariot as the disciple who will betray Jesus.