Why is Thomas called Didymus? This question often arises among those who study the New Testament and the life of Jesus Christ. The name “Didymus” is a Greek term that translates to “twin,” and it is believed to be a nickname given to Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this name and its significance in the context of Thomas’s life and ministry.
The name “Didymus” is first mentioned in the Gospel of John, where it is written, “Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, a man of whom Jesus had said, ‘Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!’ Nathanael said to him, ‘How do you know me?’ Jesus answered, ‘Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.’ Nathanael answered him, ‘Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel.’ Jesus answered, ‘Because I said to you, I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You will see greater things than these.’ And he said to him, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.’ So Nathanael said to him, ‘Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel.’ Jesus answered, ‘Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.’ (John 1:45-50)
In this passage, Jesus addresses Nathanael as “Didymus,” which suggests that he was already known by this name among his acquaintances. It is believed that Thomas received this nickname because he was the twin brother of another apostle, Judas, also known as Judas Thaddaeus. However, there is no clear evidence in the New Testament to support this claim, and it remains a matter of debate among scholars.
Another possible explanation for the name “Didymus” is that it could be a shortened form of a longer name, such as Didymus Judas Thomas. This would mean that Thomas’s full name was a combination of his nickname and his familial connection to Judas. This theory is supported by some early Christian texts, such as the Gospel of Thomas, which refers to Thomas as “Didymus Judas.”
Regardless of the origin of the name “Didymus,” it is clear that Thomas held a significant role in the early Christian community. He is often remembered for his skepticism and his famous declaration, “Let us also go, that we may die with him” (John 11:16), after Jesus told him that his friend Lazarus would rise from the dead. This skepticism was not due to a lack of faith but rather a desire to see the evidence of Jesus’s miracles firsthand.
In conclusion, the reason why Thomas is called Didymus remains a topic of discussion and debate. Whether it is due to his familial connection, a shortened form of his full name, or another reason entirely, the name “Didymus” has become synonymous with Thomas’s life and his place in the history of Christianity. As we continue to study the New Testament and the life of Jesus, the name “Didymus” will continue to serve as a reminder of Thomas’s unique contributions to the faith.
