The English Names of Jesus' 12 Disciples: An Overview
While reading the English translations of the Gospels, you might notice that the disciples of Jesus are referred to by seemingly English names. However, these names are not of English origin but translations of their original Hebrew and Greek names. This article explores the origins of these names and the reasons behind their translations.
Original Hebrew and Greek Names
Contrary to popular belief, the 12 disciples did not have English names originally. They had Hebrew names, with some also possessing Koine Greek and Latin names due to the influence of Hellenistic culture during that period. These names were eventually interpreted and translated into English, primarily for ease of understanding of the audience in English-speaking countries.
For example, the name 'Jacob' in Hebrew was transformed into the English name 'James.' This translation process was both linguistic and cultural, ensuring that the names remained recognizable and relatable to the populace in their native language. Similarly, the name 'John' in Greek stayed as 'John' in English, reflecting the importance of maintaining the essence of the names in different vernaculars.
Names Translated into English
As Christianity spread, the stories of Jesus and his disciples became more widely known and translated into various languages. In English translations, the names were adapted to fit the language and culture. This process ensured that the core message and names remained familiar to the readers.
English translations often use Anglicized versions of the original names for consistency and recognition. For instance, 'Simon' became 'Simon,' 'Peter' remained 'Peter,' and 'Philip' stayed 'Philip.' These names were chosen to be as close to their original counterparts as possible while fitting the English linguistic structure.
Names in Different Languages
It's important to note that in different language versions of the Bible, the disciples' names take on different forms. In French translations, the disciples might have French names, reflecting the linguistic changes and cultural adaptations. Similarly, in First Nations versions of the Bible, the disciples are often given names in the local language that carry significant meaning, such as 'Luke being The One Who Brings Light.'
For example, the English name 'Jesus' becomes 'Joshua' in some languages, emphasizing the shared roots of the Hebrew and English languages. This practice not only maintains the biblical narrative but also helps in the preservation of cultural and linguistic heritage.
Belief and Interpretation
There are various beliefs and interpretations regarding the names and stories of the disciples. For instance, a Church of Christ friend once claimed that Jesus spoke English and there was no sex in the Bible. When wishing me a Happy Rosh Hashanah, she refused to believe it was a Hebrew phrase, asserting that 'rosh hashanah' was English. This belief aligns with the idea that certain names and phrases have been translated into the vernacular in which they are most widely known and understood.
The story of Joseph of Arimathea bringing Jesus to England as a child is indeed a tale of cultural adaptation. It is said that Joseph took twelve native boys to be later raised as disciples in Galilee, hence giving them English names like Thaddeus instead of foreign names such as Adam, David, or Paul. This practice reflects the desire to make the biblical narratives accessible and relatable to different cultures and linguistic backgrounds.
However, it is important to approach such stories and interpretations with historical and linguistic context in mind. Many of these narratives, while culturally significant, are not necessarily based on historical evidence but rather on traditions and beliefs.
In conclusion, the English names of Jesus' 12 disciples are a result of translation and adaptation to ensure the accessibility and familiarity of biblical narratives across different cultures and languages. Understanding the origins of these names helps in appreciating the rich history and diversity of the languages and cultures that have contributed to the dissemination of Christian teachings.