Thaddaeus, also known as Lebbaeus or Judas, son of James, was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. The name Thaddaeus is believed to have derived from the Aramaic word “tadda,” meaning “breast” or “heart,” symbolizing courage or being brave-hearted. Thaddaeus’s date of birth is unknown, and there is little information about his parents.
Early Life of Thaddaeus
There is limited information about Thaddaeus’s early life. He is primarily known for his role as one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. It is assumed that he was a Galilean, as most of the apostles were from that region.
Biblical Timeline
The Calling of Thaddaeus
The calling of Thaddaeus, like the calling of the other apostles, is not described explicitly in the Bible. However, based on the accounts of the calling of some of the other apostles, it is likely that Thaddaeus was also called by Jesus during his early ministry in Galilee.
Jesus called his apostles to follow him and become “fishers of men” (Matthew 4:18-22; Mark 1:16-20; Luke 5:1-11). The purpose of their calling was to accompany Jesus, learn from him, and ultimately, be sent out to spread the good news of the Kingdom of God.
Although the specific circumstances surrounding Thaddaeus’s calling are not recorded in the canonical Gospels, he was among the twelve apostles whom Jesus chose to be his closest followers (Matthew 10:2-4; Mark 3:16-19; Luke 6:14-16; Acts 1:13). As one of the twelve, Thaddaeus was given the authority to preach, heal the sick, and cast out unclean spirits (Matthew 10:1).
Throughout his time as an apostle, Thaddaeus witnessed Jesus’s teachings, miracles, and ministry, and he eventually played an essential role in spreading the gospel message after Jesus’s death, resurrection, and ascension.
The Last Supper
Thaddaeus was present at the Last Supper, the final meal Jesus shared with his apostles before his crucifixion (Matthew 26:20; Mark 14:17; Luke 22:14). During the supper, Thaddaeus asked Jesus, “Lord, how is it that you will manifest yourself to us, and not to the world?” (John 14:22)
The Great Commission
After Jesus’s resurrection, Thaddaeus was among the apostles who received the Great Commission to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:16-20; Mark 16:14-18). Thaddaeus played an essential role in spreading the teachings of Jesus Christ after his ascension.
Death of Thaddaeus
Thaddaeus’s death is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible. However, various traditions suggest that he was martyred for his faith, either by being crucified or being killed with a spear. The exact location and date of his death are also uncertain, with some sources suggesting it occurred in Persia, Edessa, or Beirut.
Additional Notes
Thaddaeus is often confused with Judas Iscariot, the apostle who betrayed Jesus. Thaddaeus, however, was a different apostle, sometimes referred to as “Judas, not Iscariot” (John 14:22) or “Judas the brother of James” (Luke 6:16; Acts 1:13).