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Introduction
James son of Alphaeus (Hebrew: Yaakov ben Halfai—Greek: Iakōbos ho tou Halphaiou) was born circa AD 15 (3775–3776 in the Hebrew calendar) in the Roman district of Galilee. The writers of the New Testament only mentioned him four times, always listed with Jesus' eleven other apostles (see Matt. 10:3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:15; Acts 1:13). James may have been a brother or relative of Matthew of Capernaum, who was also called Levi son of Alphaeus, or coincidentally just had fathers with the same first name (see Mark 2:14). He may have been the same James that John Mark called "the younger one" (Greek: Iakōbos tou mikrou; cf. Mark 15:40). If so, Mary was the mother of James and his brother Joseph (see Matt. 27:56). The Greek phrase tou mikros can also mean "the less" or, "the lesser." However, "James the younger" probably referred to Jesus' brother, James of Jerusalem, since the gospels list him with three brothers of his—Joseph, Simon, and Jude—with the same names (see Matt. 13:55-56; Mark 6:3).
Continuing from this historical and biblical context, the figure of James remains somewhat enigmatic within the New Testament narrative. Despite his infrequent mentions, his role as one of the twelve apostles underscores his significance within the early Christian community. The sparse references to him leave much room for speculation and interpretation among theologians and historians alike. Some scholars suggest that his relative obscurity in the gospel accounts may indicate a more behind-the-scenes role within the discipleship circle. In contrast, others propose that his association with Matthew or his potential familial ties to Jesus' earthly family could offer insights into his identity and influence within the nascent Christian movement. Regardless of the ambiguity surrounding James, his inclusion among the apostolic band reminds us of the diverse backgrounds and roles played by those who followed Jesus during his earthly ministry.
Patristic Identification of James
In the second century, the Greek bishop Papias of Hierapolis (AD 70–163) wrote:
Mary the mother of the Lord; Mary, the wife of Cleopas [see John 19:25; Luke 24:18] or Alphaeus, who was the mother of James the bishop and apostle, and of Simon and Thaddeus, and one Joseph; Mary Salome, wife of Zebedee, mother of John the evangelist and James; Mary Magdalene. These four are found in the gospel. James, Jude, and Joseph were sons of an aunt of the Lord. James and John were also sons of another of the Lord's aunts. Mary, mother of James the Less, and Joseph, wife of Alphaeus, was Mary's sister, the Lord's mother, whom John named of Cleopas, either from her father, the clan's family, or for some other reason. Mary Salome is called Salome either by her husband or her village. Some affirm that she is the same as Mary of Cleopas because she had two husbands (Exposition of the Oracles of the Lord, Ch. 10).
Just glancing at Papias' interpretation makes it clear that he was also guessing about James the Less' identity. While it may be tempting to run with his statement because Papias lived in the late first century, he did not know Jesus' apostles. His writing here is an apologetic effort to reconcile various New Testament names without firsthand knowledge. Papias did not attempt to hide this fact, especially when using the word "either" twice.
Jerome of Stridon (c. 347–c. 419) and Gennadius of Massilia (died c. 496) wrote, "James, who is called the brother of the Lord, surnamed the Just, the son of Joseph by another wife, as some think, but, as appears to me, the son of Mary sister of the mother of our Lord of whom John makes mention in his book" (Lives of Illustrious Men, Ch. 2). This statement was also conjecture, meaning Jerome was not writing from firsthand knowledge. Jerome erred when he confused the martyrdom of James son of Zebedee with James of Jerusalem, as each man died at different times, by other methods, and by various authorities.
Conclusion
Despite the scarcity of specific details about James son of Alphaeus in the New Testament, his presence alongside Jesus during pivotal moments underscores his intimate connection to the foundational events of Christianity. As one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus, James bore witness to the teachings, miracles, and transformative encounters that characterized Jesus' ministry. His journey alongside the Messiah, from the shores of Galilee to the streets of Jerusalem, profoundly shaped his understanding of Jesus' message and mission. While his name may not feature prominently in the gospel accounts, the significance of his companionship with Jesus speaks volumes about the inclusive nature of Jesus' ministry and the diverse backgrounds of those called to follow him. James' quiet dedication and faithful presence amidst the tumultuous events of Jesus' life and ministry exemplify the enduring commitment of ordinary individuals to the cause of the Kingdom of God.
Prayer
Blessed are you, LORD our God, King of the universe; you gave your apostle James the grace and strength to witness Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life. Grant that we, mindful of his victory of faith, may glorify in life and death the name of our Lord Jesus the Messiah, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Bibliography
Book of Common Prayer. Huntington Beach, CA: Anglican Liturgy Press, 2019. p. 628.
Jerome of Stridon and Gennadius of Massilia. "Lives of Illustrious Men." Trans. Ernest Cushing Richardson. Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, Ser. 2, Vol. 3: Theodoret, Jerome, Gennadius, and Rufinus: Historical Writings. Eds. Philip Schaff and Henry Wace. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1892. p. 361. Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Calvin University. (link).
Kranz, Jeffrey. The Beginner's Guide to the Bible. Bellingham, WA: OverviewBible, 2020.
Nelson, Ryan. "Who Was James Son of Alphaeus? The Beginner's Guide." OverviewBible. September 11, 2019. (link).
Papias of Hierapolis. "The Fragments of Papias." Ante-Nicene Fathers, Vol. 1: The Apostolic Fathers, Justin Martyr, Irenaeus. Eds. Alexander Roberts, James Donaldson, and A. Cleveland Coxe. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1885. p. 155. Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Calvin University. (link).
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