en_tw/bible/kt/thetwelve.md

the twelve, the eleven

Definition:

The term "the twelve" refers to the twelve men that Jesus chose to be his closest disciples, or apostles. After Judas killed himself, they were called "the eleven."

• Jesus had many other disciples, but the title "the twelve" distinguished those who were apparently closest to Jesus.
• The names of these twelve disciples are listed in Matthew 10, Mark 3, and Luke 6.
• Some time after Jesus had returned to heaven, "the eleven" chose a disciple named Matthias to take Judas's place. Then they were called "the twelve" again.

Translation Suggestions:

• For many languages it may be clearer or more natural to add the noun and say, "the twelve apostles" or "Jesus's twelve closest disciples."
• "The eleven" could also be translated as "Jesus's eleven remaining disciples."
• Some translations may prefer to use a capital letter to show that it was used as a title, as in "the Twelve" and "the Eleven."

(See also: apostle, disciple)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 15:5-7
• Acts 06:02
• Luke 09:01
• Luke 18:31
• Mark 10:32-34
• Matthew 10:07

Word Data:

• Strong's: G1427, G1733