John 13:30 in the King James Version reads, "He then having received the sop went immediately out: and it was night."

This verse is a small but significant part of the larger narrative of the Last Supper, where Jesus gathers his disciples for a final meal before his crucifixion. In this verse, Jesus identifies Judas Iscariot as the one who will betray him. Jesus gives Judas a piece of bread, or "sop," as a symbolic act of friendship and trust. However, after receiving the sop, Judas leaves the gathering to carry out his betrayal.

The context of this verse is important for understanding its deeper meaning. The Last Supper is a pivotal moment in the Bible, as it is when Jesus institutes the sacrament of communion and foretells his impending death. It is also the setting for Jesus' act of washing the disciples' feet, a humbling and symbolic act of service. The fact that Judas betrays Jesus immediately after this profound moment of intimacy and service adds to the poignancy and gravity of the situation.

One of the key themes of this verse is the theme of betrayal. Judas, one of Jesus' closest disciples, ultimately chooses to betray him for thirty pieces of silver. This act of betrayal is a reminder of the human capacity for treachery and deceit, even towards those we claim to love and respect. The heartbreaking nature of betrayal is underscored by the timing of Judas' actions, as it occurs in the midst of a meaningful and intimate gathering.

Another important theme in this verse is the idea of darkness and night. The mention of "it was night" at the end of the verse serves both as a literal statement of the time of day and as a symbolic representation of the spiritual and moral darkness that surrounds Judas' betrayal. Night is often used in the Bible as a symbol of evil, ignorance, and spiritual blindness. In this context, "it was night" can be seen as a metaphor for the moral and spiritual darkness that has enveloped Judas' heart, leading him to carry out his act of betrayal.

The symbolism in this verse is powerful and multi-layered. The sop that Jesus gives to Judas represents trust, intimacy, and friendship. By sharing a meal and offering the sop, Jesus shows his love and care for Judas, even knowing that he will soon betray him. In this act, Jesus embodies the principle of unconditional love and forgiveness, even towards those who will betray him. The sop also has deeper significance as a symbol of Jesus' body which will soon be broken for the salvation of humanity.

Finally, the act of Judas leaving immediately after receiving the sop is laden with symbolic meaning. His departure signals his choice to turn away from the light and embrace the darkness of betrayal. It also signifies the stark contrast between the path of betrayal and the path of love and forgiveness that Jesus embodies.

In conclusion, John 13:30 is a verse that holds deep significance within the larger narrative of the Last Supper. It speaks to the themes of betrayal, darkness, and the symbolism of Jesus' act of love and forgiveness. It serves as a reminder of the complexities of human nature and the enduring power of Jesus' example of unconditional love.