Jump to: Hitchcock's • Smith's • ATS • ISBE • Easton's • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Greek • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Etymology: The term "Boanerges" is a Greek transliteration of an Aramaic phrase meaning "Sons of Thunder." This name was given by Jesus Christ to the brothers James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were two of His twelve apostles. The name is found in the New Testament in the Gospel of Mark. Biblical Reference: The only direct reference to Boanerges is found in Mark 3:17: "James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them He gave the name Boanerges, which means 'Sons of Thunder')." Context and Significance: James and John were among the first disciples called by Jesus and were part of His inner circle, which also included Peter. This inner circle was privileged to witness significant events such as the Transfiguration (Mark 9:2-3) and Jesus' agony in the Garden of Gethsemane (Mark 14:33-34). The name "Sons of Thunder" likely reflects the zealous and fervent nature of James and John. This is illustrated in Luke 9:54, where they asked Jesus if they should call down fire from heaven to destroy a Samaritan village that did not welcome Him. Their passionate disposition is further evidenced in their request to Jesus for places of honor in His glory (Mark 10:35-37). Theological Implications: The designation "Boanerges" underscores the transformative power of Christ's calling. While James and John initially exhibited fiery zeal, they were molded by Jesus into leaders of the early Church. James became the first apostolic martyr (Acts 12:2), and John, known as the "beloved disciple," authored several New Testament writings, including the Gospel of John, three epistles, and the Book of Revelation. Historical and Cultural Context: In the cultural context of first-century Judaism, names held significant meaning and often reflected character or destiny. By naming James and John "Boanerges," Jesus acknowledged their fervent spirit while also foreshadowing their future roles in spreading the Gospel with boldness and authority. Legacy and Influence: The legacy of the "Sons of Thunder" is evident in the enduring impact of their ministry and writings. James' martyrdom exemplified steadfast faith, while John's contributions to the New Testament continue to shape Christian theology and eschatology. Their lives serve as a testament to the transformative work of Christ in empowering His followers to fulfill their divine calling. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary BoanergesSmith's Bible Dictionary Boanergesa name signifying sons of thunder , given by our Lord to the two sons of Zebedee, James and John, probably on account of their fiery earnestly. (Mark 3:17) See (Luke 9:54; Mark 9:38) comp. Matt 20:20 etc. ATS Bible Dictionary BoanergesSons of thunder, a name given by our Savior to James and John the sons of Zebedee, Mark 3:17; perhaps on account of their power as preachers. Some suppose it was given on the occasion of their request that Christ would call for fire from heaven, and destroy a village of the Samaritans, which had refused to entertain them, Luke 9:53,54. Easton's Bible Dictionary Sons of thunder, a surname given by our Lord to James and John (Mark 3:17) on account of their fervid and impetuous temper (Luke 9:54). Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) Any declamatory and vociferous preacher or orator.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BOANERGESbo-a-nur'-jez (Boanerges; bene reghesh, "sons of thunder"): The surname bestowed by Jesus upon James and John, the sons of Zebedee, when they were ordained to the apostleship (Mark 3:17). See JAMES. It has also been regarded as an equivalent of the "Heavenly Twins," the Sons of Zeus or Thunder. According to this interpretation, the name Boanerges would represent the Dioscuri in some form or other of their varied presentation in the cults of the Mediterranean (compare Professor J. Rendel Harris in The Expositor, series vii, III, 146). Greek 993. Boanerges -- Boanerges, an epithet applied to the two sons of ... ... 992, 993. Boanerges. 994 . Boanerges, an epithet applied to the two sons of Zebedee. Part of Speech: Proper Noun, Indeclinable ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/993.htm - 8k Library The Son of Thunder Life and Character of John Characteristics of the Twelve Ambassadors for Christ The Gospel According to St. Mark The Ship on Fire --A Voice of Warning A Brother to all who do the Will of God The Gospel According to St. John The Knowing of the Son. The Twelve and the Seventy. Thesaurus Boanerges (1 Occurrence)... (n.) Any declamatory and vociferous preacher or orator. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. BOANERGES. ... CM Kerr. Multi-Version Concordance Boanerges (1 Occurrence). ... /b/boanerges.htm - 7k Bo-aner'ges (1 Occurrence) Surname (11 Occurrences) Blushing (6 Occurrences) Zabdi (17 Occurrences) Zebedee (11 Occurrences) Zeb'edee (11 Occurrences) Thunder (48 Occurrences) Surnamed (15 Occurrences) Mark (182 Occurrences) Resources Why did Jesus refer to James and John as the sons of thunder? | GotQuestions.orgWho was John the Apostle in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What are the seven baptisms mentioned in the Bible, and what do they mean? | GotQuestions.org Boanerges: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Boanerges (1 Occurrence)Mark 3:17 Subtopics Boanerges: Surname of the Sons of Zebedee Related Terms |
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