The Chosen – Season 5 – Episode 4 Rewind

If I had naming rights, I’d slap a bold label on this episode: Frustration. That word practically hums beneath every scene. It’s in Judas’s furrowed brow, Caiaphas’s clenched jaw, and yes—even in the rustle of fig leaves that dare not bear fruit.

Let’s talk Judas. He’s watching Jesus take questions and twist them into truth, but it’s not the kind of truth Judas had in mind. That famous “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s” line? Not exactly the political thunder Judas wanted. Things aren’t lining up with his idea of success, and he lets it show—in a conversation with Peter that’s not in the Bible but feels entirely plausible. Then comes a bold pitch to Jesus himself. Judas offers up his strategy, trying to help Jesus—yes, help Jesus—be more effective. You can practically feel him leaning forward: “Let me handle the optics, Rabbi.” It’s not in scripture, but based on what we know of Judas, it’s not a stretch either.

And now… the fig tree. Jesus is hungry, the tree’s barren, and it’s about to become the most cursed plant in Judea. Is this a rare glimpse of frustration from Jesus? Maybe. But in true rabbinic style, there’s always a deeper meaning coming. Think of it as the parable before the parable.

Meanwhile, while some are scheming and others are sulking, we get a beautiful contrast: the Dayenu moment. The women gather around Jesus to share a Seder meal—not a scene pulled straight from scripture, but one crafted with thoughtful intention. If Jesus was in Bethany before Passover, wouldn’t he break bread with those closest to him? The Dayenu prayer, spoken during the Passover meal, is a cascade of gratitude: Even if You had only done this one thing… it would have been enough. That line hits different when you picture these women reflecting on how Jesus has walked with them, listened to them, and seen them.

This scene doesn’t just add warmth—it reframes the whole episode. While leaders plot and Judas fumes, the faithful respond with thanks. Frustration is part of the story, but gratitude, as always, gets the final word.

Now it’s your turn. Check out the Bible study guide for this episode, dig into the scripture references, and maybe—just maybe—craft a Dayenu of your own. What would have been enough for you?