### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Thōmâs**, represented by `{{G2381}}`, is of Chaldee origin and means **the twin**. It appears **12 times** across **12 unique verses** in the Bible and refers to Thomas, one of the Christian apostles.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2381}}` is consistently listed as one of the **twelve** `{{G1427}}` disciples ([[Matthew 10:3]]; [[Mark 3:18]]; [[Luke 6:15]]). He is also identified by the name **Didymus** `{{G1324}}`, which is the Greek word for twin ([[John 11:16]]; [[John 20:24]]). Thomas is portrayed as loyal, suggesting to his **fellowdisciples** `{{G4827}}` that they should also go with Jesus to **die** `{{G599}}` with him [[John 11:16]]. He also expresses a desire for clarity, asking Jesus, "how can we **know** `{{G1492}}` the **way** `{{G3598}}`?" when he does not understand where Jesus is going [[John 14:5]]. Most notably, Thomas was not with the other disciples when Jesus first appeared after the resurrection and was **not** `{{G3756}}` with them when Jesus **came** `{{G2064}}` [[John 20:24]]. Eight **days** `{{G2250}}` later, Jesus appeared again while the **doors** `{{G2374}}` were **shut** `{{G2808}}`, and this time Thomas was present [[John 20:26]]. Jesus invited him to behold his hands and thrust his hand into his **side** `{{G4125}}`, which led to Thomas's profound confession [[John 20:27-28]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the role and story of Thomas:
* `{{G1324}}` **Dídymos** (twin): This is the Greek equivalent of the name Thomas and is used to identify him multiple times, emphasizing this characteristic ([[John 11:16]]; [[John 21:2]]).
* `{{G1427}}` **dṓdeka** (twelve): This word establishes Thomas's position as **one** `{{G1520}}` of the **twelve** apostles chosen by Jesus, highlighting his inclusion in the core group of disciples [[John 20:24]].
* `{{G571}}` **ápistos** (faithless): Jesus directly addresses Thomas's doubt after the resurrection, instructing him to be not **faithless** but believing [[John 20:27]]. This word is key to understanding his initial skepticism.
* `{{G4103}}` **pistós** (believing): The direct contrast to `ápistos`, this word represents the state of faith Jesus calls Thomas to embrace, moving from disbelief to trust [[John 20:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2381}}` is centered on the journey from doubt to faith.
* **Apostolic Witness:** As one of the twelve, Thomas was a chosen witness to Jesus's ministry. He was present with the other disciples in the **upper room** `{{G5253}}` after the ascension, continuing in his apostolic role [[Acts 1:13]].
* **The Nature of Faith:** Thomas's initial demand for physical proof highlights a struggle between sight and faith. His story is defined by Jesus's response: "**blessed** `{{G3107}}` are they that have not **seen** `{{G1492}}`, and yet have **believed** `{{G4100}}`" [[John 20:29]].
* **The Deity of Christ:** Thomas's journey culminates in one of the most powerful and direct confessions of Jesus's divinity in Scripture. Upon seeing the risen Christ, he **answered** `{{G611}}` and **said** `{{G2036}}`, "My **Lord** `{{G2962}}` and my **God** `{{G2316}}`" [[John 20:28]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2381}}` **Thōmâs** is far more than an apostolic name. He represents the honest inquirer whose doubt gives way to a foundational confession of faith. His identity as **Didymus** `{{G1324}}`, the twin, is secondary to his role as one of the **twelve** `{{G1427}}` whose personal encounter with the risen **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` led him to declare Him "My **Lord** `{{G2962}}` and my **God** `{{G2316}}`" [[John 20:28]]. His experience serves as a lasting testament to the blessedness of those who **believe** `{{G4100}}` without physical sight [[John 20:29]].
TRV