### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Alphaîos**, represented by `{{G256}}`, is the proper name of an **Israelite** man, Alphæus. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. This name is used exclusively in a patronymic context, serving to identify two significant individuals in the New Testament by naming their father.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G256}}` is used to identify the father of two of Jesus's disciples. Four of its occurrences are in the lists of the twelve apostles, where **James** the son of **Alphaeus** is named ([[Matthew 10:3]], [[Mark 3:18]], [[Luke 6:15]], [[Acts 1:13]]). The fifth occurrence identifies **Levi** the son of **Alphaeus**, a tax collector whom Jesus calls to follow him while he is **sitting** `{{G2521}}` at the **receipt of custom** `{{G5058}}` [[Mark 2:14]]. This **Levi** `{{G3018}}` is also known as **Matthew** `{{G3156}}`, linking **Alphaeus** to two of the apostles.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related names and terms clarify the context surrounding **Alphaeus** and his sons:
* `{{G2385}}` **Iákōbos** (James): The name of one of the sons of Alphaeus, consistently listed as one of the twelve apostles ([[Matthew 10:3]], [[Mark 3:18]], [[Luke 6:15]]).
* `{{G3018}}` **Leuḯs** (Levi): Identified as the son of **Alphaeus** in [[Mark 2:14]]. His calling narrative shows Jesus finding him at the **receipt of custom** `{{G5058}}` and saying **Follow** `{{G190}}` me.
* `{{G3156}}` **Matthaîos** (Matthew): The name used for this same apostle who is also identified as a **publican** `{{G5057}}` in the apostolic list in [[Matthew 10:3]].
* `{{G5057}}` **telṓnēs** (publican): This term describes the profession of Levi/Matthew. His role as a tax-farmer, a collector of public revenue, is a key detail in the account of his calling.
### Theological Significance
The use of the name **Alphaeus** `{{G256}}` carries significant weight in establishing the identities of the apostles and illustrating the nature of Jesus's ministry.
* **Apostolic Identification**: The name provides crucial clarification in the apostolic lists, distinguishing **James** the son of **Alphaeus** from the other prominent apostle named James ([[Matthew 10:3]], [[Luke 6:15]]).
* **Family Connection**: By identifying both **James** `{{G2385}}` and **Levi** `{{G3018}}` as sons of **Alphaeus**, the scripture suggests a sibling relationship between two of the apostles ([[Mark 2:14]], [[Mark 3:18]]).
* **Calling of a Sinner**: The most profound significance is tied to Alphaeus's son, Levi/Matthew, the **publican** `{{G5057}}`. His calling demonstrates Jesus's mission to **call** `{{G2564}}` not the righteous, but sinners **to** `{{G1519}}` repentance [[Matthew 9:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G256}}` **Alphaîos** is more than just a name in a genealogy. It is a vital marker for identifying two of Jesus's apostles, **James** `{{G2385}}` and **Matthew** `{{G3156}}`. Through its use, the scriptures not only provide clarity in the lists of the disciples but also highlight a central theme of the gospel: Jesus's call extends to all, including a **publican** `{{G5057}}` son of **Alphaeus**, inviting him to **follow** `{{G190}}` and become a foundational member of the church.
TRV