Who was the apostle Thaddaeus (Judas son of James)?
Quick answer
Thaddaeus, also called Judas (not Iscariot) son of James, was one of the twelve apostles. He asked Jesus on the night before the cross: "Lord, how is it that you will manifest yourself to us, and not to the world?" (John 14:22).
Lesser known than Peter or John, but a real apostle who walked with Jesus and bore witness.
His question prompted Jesus’ promise: "If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him."
Tradition holds he ministered in Persia and was martyred. Some scholars associate him with the Letter of Jude.
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Original BibleDawn answer · reviewed 2026-06. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.