Bible Figure
Saint Jude
Jude, traditionally called Saint Jude or Thaddaeus, was one of the Twelve apostles and is commonly identified with Judas of James and Judas 'not Iscariot.' He should not be confused with Judas Iscariot or automatically with Jude the brother of Jesus.
Biography
Matthew and Mark list Thaddaeus among the Twelve, while Luke and Acts list Judas of James. These have traditionally been understood as designations for the same apostle. John 14 records a Judas, explicitly distinguished from Iscariot, asking Jesus why He would reveal Himself to the disciples and not to the world. Beyond these references the New Testament supplies little individual biography. The Epistle of Jude identifies its author as Jude, brother of James; although some traditions connect that author with the apostle, the identification is not certain and should not be presented as explicit Scripture.
Biblical Significance
Jude's importance rests securely in his selection among the Twelve. The overlapping names surrounding Judas/Jude make him a particularly useful case for AVWJ crosslinking and identity notes rather than silently merging uncertain traditions.