### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Iákōbos**, represented by `{{G2385}}`, is the name James. It appears **42 times** across **38 unique verses** in the Bible. The name is applied to several key figures in the New Testament, including two of the twelve apostles and the brother of Jesus, who became a prominent leader in the early church.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2385}}` is used to identify distinct individuals central to Jesus's ministry and the apostolic era. One is James, the **son** of Zebedee and **brother** of John, who was part of Jesus's inner circle and was present at the transfiguration ([[Matthew 10:2]], [[Mark 9:2]]). He and his brother John were surnamed Boanerges, meaning **sons** of **thunder** [[Mark 3:17]]. This James was the first apostle to be martyred, having been **killed** with the **sword** [[Acts 12:2]]. Another apostle is James, the **son** of Alphaeus [[Matthew 10:3]]. A third significant figure is James, the Lord's **brother** ([[Galatians 1:19]], [[Mark 6:3]]). This James became a leader in the Jerusalem church, considered a **pillar** alongside Cephas and John [[Galatians 2:9]]. Peter reported to him after his miraculous release from prison [[Acts 12:17]], and he gave the decisive speech at the Council of Jerusalem [[Acts 15:13]]. The resurrected Jesus made a special appearance to him [[1 Corinthians 15:7]]. Other individuals include James, the father of the apostle Judas [[Luke 6:16]], and the author of the epistle who identifies himself as "James, a **servant** of God" [[James 1:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the identity and roles of the individuals named James:
* `{{G80}}` **adelphós** (a brother): This word is essential for distinguishing the various men named James, such as James the **brother** of John [[Matthew 10:2]], James the Lord's **brother** [[Galatians 1:19]], and Judas the **brother** of James [[Jude 1:1]].
* `{{G5207}}` **huiós** (a "son"): This term establishes the paternal lineage for two of the apostles: James the **son** of Zebedee [[Mark 10:35]] and James the **son** of Alphaeus [[Mark 3:18]].
* `{{G652}}` **apóstolos** (a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the Gospel): The lists of the twelve **apostles** include two different men named James, highlighting the name's prominence among Christ's chosen followers [[Matthew 10:2-3]].
* `{{G4769}}` **stŷlos** (a post ("style"), i.e. (figuratively) support): This term describes the foundational role of James, the Lord's brother, who was considered a **pillar** in the Jerusalem church [[Galatians 2:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2385}}` is seen through the actions and positions of the men who bore the name.
* **Apostolic Leadership:** The name is closely associated with leadership in the early church. James, son of Zebedee, was part of Jesus’s innermost circle of disciples [[Mark 14:33]], while James, the Lord’s brother, was a primary leader of the Jerusalem church, guiding it through foundational doctrinal decisions ([[Acts 15:13]], [[Acts 21:18]]).
* **Witness to Christ:** Individuals named James were key witnesses to Christ's ministry, transfiguration, and resurrection. Jesus appeared specifically to James after he had risen [[1 Corinthians 15:7]], and the women who first witnessed the empty tomb included Mary the mother of James [[Mark 16:1]].
* **The Cost of Discipleship:** The life of James, son of Zebedee, provides a stark example of the ultimate sacrifice required of a disciple. His execution by the **sword** stands as the first apostolic martyrdom recorded in Scripture [[Acts 12:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2385}}` **Iákōbos** is a name carried by several foundational figures in the New Testament. It represents not one but multiple streams of influence in the early church, from the intimate companionship with Jesus during His earthly ministry to the authoritative leadership that guided the church after His ascension. The stories of these men illustrate key themes of apostleship, martyrdom, family ties in faith, and the administrative guidance of the nascent Christian movement.
TRV