• The son of Alphaeus, or Cleopas, "the brother" or near kinsman or cousin of our Lord (Galatians 1:18,19 ), called James "the Less," or "the Little," probably because he was of low stature. He is mentioned along with the other apostles (Matthew 10:3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:15 ). He had a separate interview with our Lord after his resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:7 ), and is mentioned as one of the apostles of the circumcision (Acts 1:13 ). He appears to have occupied the position of head of the Church at Jerusalem, where he presided at the council held to consider the case of the Gentiles (Acts 12:17; 15:13-29 : 21:18-24 ). This James was the author of the epistle which bears his name.

    Copyright StatementThese dictionary topics are from M.G. Easton M.A., D.D., Illustrated Bible Dictionary, Third Edition, published by Thomas Nelson, 1897. Public Domain.

    Bibliography InformationEaston, Matthew George. Entry for 'James'. Easton's Bible Dictionary. https://www.studylight.org/dictionaries/eng/ebd/j/james.html. 1897.