Jude, also known as Thaddeus or Lebbaeus, is described in the Gospels as one of the Twelve Apostles (Luke 6:16; Acts 1:13). He is referred to as “Jude the son of James,” which some traditions interpret as “Jude, the brother of James.” To avoid confusion with Judas Iscariot, John’s Gospel explicitly notes: “Then Judas (not Iscariot) said, ‘Lord, why do You intend to show Yourself to us and not to the world?’” (John 14:22). Christ’s response underscores the relationship between love, obedience, and divine presence: “Anyone who loves Me will obey My teaching. My Father will love them, and We will come to them and make Our home with them” (John 14:23).

Christian tradition often associates Jude Thaddeus and James the Less (the son of Alphaeus) with Mary of Clopas, believed to be a relative of the Virgin Mary. This connection would make them cousins of Jesus. However, contemporary scholarship questions this familial link, noting ambiguities in biblical genealogies and naming conventions.

After Christ’s Ascension, Jude Thaddeus preached in Galilee, Samaria, Arabia, Syria, Mesopotamia, and Persia. He is traditionally credited with authoring the Epistle of Jude, a concise yet profound letter that emphasizes steadfast faith, love for Christ, and resistance to heresies. Jude warns that mere conversion from paganism is insufficient for salvation; genuine faith must be accompanied by good works.

While details of his martyrdom are uncertain, traditions suggest Jude died as one of the last apostles. Some accounts place his death in the Ararat Mountains, where his conversion of pagans provoked local priests. Sources vary regarding his mode of execution: some claim he was shot with arrows (per Dmitry of Rostov), others that he was killed with a club, spear, or halberd.

Iconography
Although Jude Thaddeus is one of the Twelve, his representation in scenes such as the Last Judgment or the Deesis is rare. This omission may stem from confusion with Judas Iscariot. Instead, the Evangelist Luke often replaces him in such contexts.

From the 17th century, Jude Thaddeus became more prominent in Ukrainian iconography. He is typically placed to the right in Deesis compositions, next to Simon the Zealot. Depictions show him with a long, gray or brown beard, and his attributes include:

A club, halberd, or spear: Symbolizing his martyrdom (similar to James the Greater, but distinguishable from Thomas, who is usually portrayed beardless).

A scroll or book: Representing his apostolic teachings.

A medallion with Christ’s image: An influence of Western traditions.

Jude’s presence in Ukrainian iconography gained traction despite initial confusion over his name, which may have caused reluctance to depict him alongside Judas Iscariot.

Mykhailo Skop