Origin and Meaning of Cephas

Meaning & Origin

Rock or Stone

Origin: Aramaic - Derived from the Aramaic word 'kepha', which means 'rock' or 'stone'. In the New Testament, Cephas is another name for the Apostle Peter, which is derived from the Greek 'petros', also meaning 'rock'.

Interesting Facts

  • Cephas is intimately connected with Peter in the Christian tradition, as Peter was given the name Cephas by Jesus, signifying his role as a foundational figure in the early Church.
  • The name appears in various biblical texts, highlighting its significance within Christianity, particularly in the New Testament.
  • Notable bearers of the name include the apostle Saint Peter, also known as Cephas, who is one of the most revered figures in Christianity.
  • Though not very common as a given name today, Cephas has historical significance among certain Christian communities and is recognized in various religious contexts.
  • Variations of the name include Peter (the English form), Petros (Greek), and Kephas (another transliteration from Aramaic).