### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Boanergés**, represented by `{{G993}}`, is an epithet of Chaldee origin defined as "sons of commotion." It appears **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The term was used to provide a surname for two of the apostles.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical application of `{{G993}}` is found in the naming of the apostles James and John. In the narrative, Jesus bestows this surname upon the two brothers directly. The passage provides its own translation of the epithet: "And James the son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James; and he surnamed them **Boanerges**, which is, The sons of thunder" [[Mark 3:17]]. This act sets these two disciples apart with a unique, descriptive title.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of **Boanergés** is illuminated by its component parts and the individuals it describes:
* `{{G5207}}` **huiós** (a "son"): This word is used to translate the first part of Boanerges. It is a widely used term for a "son" or child, foundational to understanding kinship and identity, such as in the title "the **Son** of God" [[Galatians 2:20]].
* `{{G1027}}` **brontḗ** (thunder): This term, meaning "thunder," forms the second part of the name. It is frequently associated with divine power and heavenly proclamations, as heard from the throne of God in the book of Revelation ([[Revelation 4:5]], [[Revelation 19:6]]).
* `{{G2385}}` **Iákōbos** (James): One of the two brothers given the surname **Boanerges** [[Mark 3:17]]. He is identified as the son of Zebedee [[Matthew 10:2]] and is consistently listed among the core disciples.
* `{{G80}}` **adelphós** (a brother): This word defines the relationship between James and John, who received the name together [[Mark 3:17]]. The term is used literally for kinship and figuratively for believers, as in "my beloved **brethren**" [[1 Corinthians 15:58]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G993}}` is concentrated in its single, impactful use.
* **A Unique Designation:** The bestowing of this surname on James `{{G2385}}` and John `{{G2491}}` distinguishes them with a specific identity given by Jesus himself.
* **Connection to Divine Power:** The translation "sons of thunder" directly links the brothers to the concept of **thunder** `{{G1027}}`, a phenomenon associated with the power and voice of God in scripture ([[Revelation 6:1]], [[Revelation 14:2]]).
* **A Shared Identity:** The name is given to the pair of brothers, emphasizing their shared calling and close familial and ministerial bond. They are identified together as "the sons of Zebedee" in other passages as well [[Mark 10:35]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G993}}` **Boanergés** is a highly specific term whose meaning is entirely contained within its single appearance in scripture. It functions as a unique surname for the apostles James and John, defining them as the "sons of thunder." This epithet encapsulates their identity as brothers and suggests a nature connected to the powerful and authoritative voice of God.
TRV