apostoli

Apostoli is the plural form of the word apostolo in several languages, notably Italian, and is used to refer to the apostles in Christian contexts. The term derives from the Greek apostolos, meaning “one who is sent” or “messenger.” In Christian usage, apostles are individuals entrusted with proclaiming the gospel and founding churches, often with authority to teach, heal, and perform miracles.

Traditionally, the Twelve Apostles form the core group associated with Jesus’ early followers. They are typically named as Peter, Andrew, James (son of Zebedee), John, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, James (son of Alphaeus), Simon the Zealot, Thaddaeus (Judas son of James), and Judas Iscariot. After Judas’s betrayal and death, Matthias was chosen to replace him (Acts 1:26). In the New Testament, Paul the Apostle is also described as an apostle, though not among the Twelve; he is often called the Apostle to the Gentiles due to his missionary work.

The term apostle carries implications of vocation, mission, and authority. In many Christian traditions, apostleship is linked to the transmission of doctrine and the founding of local churches, and it is connected to the sense of apostolic succession in episcopal lineage. Distinctions are sometimes drawn between the Twelve, other early Christian messengers described as apostles, and later movements that use the title.

Beyond Christian usage, the word originates from Greek and can denote a general envoy or messenger in ancient contexts. The concept of apostles thus encompasses both a specific historical group and a broader sense of commissioned messengers.