Judas (Jude)

Judas (Greek form; Hebrew Yehudah, "praise") is one of the most common names in the NT period. Beyond Judas Iscariot (the betrayer), the NT mentions several others: (1.) Judas son of James (also called Thaddaeus/Lebbaeus), one of the Twelve (Luke 6:16; John 14:22). (2.) Judas, brother of Jesus (Matt. 13:55; Mark 6:3), traditionally identified as the author of the epistle of Jude (who calls himself "brother of James," Jude 1). (3.) Judas of Galilee, the revolutionary (Acts 5:37). (4.) Judas Barsabbas, a leader sent with Paul and Barnabas to Antioch (Acts 15:22). (5.) Judas, the man in Damascus at whose house Paul stayed after his conversion (Acts 9:11).

The name's frequency reflects the tribal pride in Judah throughout Second Temple Judaism. The betrayer's infamy has made the name "Judas" synonymous with treachery in western languages, though the name itself simply means "praise" and was honorably borne by many.