Apostle: meaning, definitions and examples

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apostle

[əˈpɒsəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

religion

A person who is sent to spread a religious message or to promote a cause. In Christianity, the twelve apostles were the primary disciples of Jesus Christ, commissioned to spread the Gospel. The title 'apostle' is also used in a more general sense to refer to someone who is a vigorous advocate of a particular belief or cause.

Synonyms

advocate, evangelist, messenger.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
apostle	Used primarily in religious or spiritual contexts to refer to one of the original twelve followers of Jesus or someone who is a pioneer or early advocate of a movement. Paul the Apostle traveled extensively to spread Christianity. She is considered an apostle of modern education reforms.
messenger	Commonly used to describe someone who delivers messages or information, whether in personal, official, or informal settings. The messenger delivered the urgent news without delay. In ancient times, messengers were sent on horseback to relay important information.
evangelist	Generally used in religious contexts to describe someone who seeks to convert others to the Christian faith, but can also be used more broadly in business or tech to describe someone who passionately promotes a product or idea. The evangelist traveled from town to town, preaching the gospel. He's a tech evangelist who promotes digital innovation.
advocate	Used in various contexts to describe someone who supports or promotes a specific cause, policy, or idea, often in legal, social, or political settings. He is a strong advocate for environmental protection. As a lawyer, she advocates for her clients in court.

Examples of usage

Paul was known as the apostle to the Gentiles, spreading the message of Christianity beyond the Jewish community.
She considered herself an apostle of animal rights, dedicating her life to promoting the welfare of animals.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

history

One of the twelve chief disciples of Jesus Christ. The apostles played a crucial role in the early spread of Christianity, establishing churches and teaching the Gospel. They are often depicted in religious art and are revered as saints in many Christian traditions.

Synonyms

disciple, follower, prophet.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
apostle	Typically used in a religious context to refer to the early close followers of Jesus Christ, particularly the twelve apostles. It can also refer metaphorically to someone who is a pioneering advocate or supporter of a cause or movement. Peter is considered an important apostle in Christianity. She is seen as an apostle of environmental conservation.
disciple	Generally used to describe a devoted follower or student of a teacher, leader, or philosophy. Can be used in both religious and secular contexts. As a disciple of Gandhi, he practiced non-violence. The disciples of Socrates followed his teachings diligently.
follower	Used to describe someone who aligns themselves with the ideas or teachings of a particular person or group, often implying a less active role than 'disciple'. It can be used in both religious and non-religious contexts. She has many followers on social media. The followers of the new political party gathered for a rally.
prophet	Primarily used in a religious context to describe someone who is believed to have been contacted by a divine entity to deliver messages or revelations. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone with visionary insights. Muhammad is considered the final prophet in Islam. Some call him a prophet of the digital age.

Examples of usage

According to the Bible, Peter was one of the closest apostles to Jesus, often acting as a spokesperson for the group.
The apostles faced persecution and hardship in their mission to share the teachings of Jesus.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Greek 'apostolos', meaning 'one who is sent away'.
It has roots in the verb 'apostellein', which means 'to send forth'.
In ancient times, it referred generally to any messenger, but it became more specific in religious contexts.

Religious Significance

In Christianity, the term primarily refers to the original 12 followers of Jesus, who were tasked with spreading his teachings.
The apostolic age significantly shaped the early church and its doctrines.
Some religious groups also see modern leaders or missionaries as apostles.

Historical Context

The apostles were pivotal in the development of early Christianity, documenting their experiences in the New Testament.
Their missionary journey spread Christianity throughout the Roman Empire.
Traditions about the apostles' lives and martyrdom contributed to building Christian communities.

Literature and Culture

Apostles have been depicted in countless pieces of art, enhancing their symbolic representation in culture.
They appear in literature, films, and music, often symbolizing dedication and faith.
The idea of apostles can also be found outside religious contexts, symbolizing any passionate advocate for a cause.

Psychology

Apostolic figures often embody traits like leadership and conviction, influencing followers' beliefs and behaviors.
Studies on charismatic leadership often draw parallels with the influence of apostles in shaping societal morals.
The dedication of apostles can be linked to social identity theory, where group membership shapes individuals' actions.

Translations

Translations of the word "apostle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 apóstolo

🇮🇳 अपोस्टल

🇩🇪 Apostel

🇮🇩 rasul

🇺🇦 апостол

🇵🇱 apostoł

🇯🇵 使徒

🇫🇷 apôtre

🇪🇸 apóstol

🇹🇷 havari

🇰🇷 사도

🇸🇦 رسول

🇨🇿 apoštol

🇸🇰 apoštol

🇨🇳 使徒

🇸🇮 apostol

🇮🇸 postuli

🇰🇿 апостол

🇬🇪 აპოსტოლი

🇦🇿 apostol

🇲🇽 apóstol

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,639 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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9636 frontiers
9637 advising
9638 gratifying
9639 apostle
9640 onward
9641 precluded
9642 dough
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