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Question
Were the 12 apostles direct descendents of the twelve tribes of Israel? Did each of them literally come from one of the twelve tribes? For example, Matthew from the tribe of Levi, Simon from Simeon, Judas from Issachar, Jude from Judah, etc. Thanks for your consideration.
No evidence suggests that each of the Apostles came from a different Israelite tribe. By the time of Jesus, most of the tribal affiliations had ceased -- 10 tribes were dispersed after the fall of the northern kingdom to the Assyrians.
The meaning is that the Apostles symbolized the new totality of Israel, that had been identified as composed of 12 tribes.
Best wishes, Peggy.
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Edward Bode
Expertise
A scholar of Jewish and Christian scripture (biblical studies), I hold graduate degrees from three universities in Rome [Italy]: Pontifical Gregorian University, Pontifical Biblical Institute, and the University of St. Thomas. I also have a master's degree in English. My special interests are the gospels of the New Testament and the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Experience
I have taught at three universities and two colleges. My published works include one book, several articles in scholarly journals, and numerous book reviews.
I hold a doctorate in sacred theology from the University of St. Thomas in Rome, Italy; a license in sacred scripture from the Pontifical Biblical Institute in Rome; a license in sacred theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome.Additionally, I earned a master's degree in English from the University of Missouri in Columbia, Mo., and a bachelor of journalism from the same university.
I have been a member of the Catholic Biblical Association of America for 40 years. I am a former member of Society of Biblical Literature.I have spoken on academic topics to local, national, and international groups.
Education/Credentials
I hold graduate degrees from three universities in Rome [Italy]: Pontifical Gregorian University, Pontifical Biblical Institute, and the University of St. Thomas.
I also have a master's degree in English.
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