Cephas

Origin

Greek origin, from the Semitic name קיפא (Kefa), meaning 'rock' or 'cliff'. In biblical contexts, Cephas is the Aramaic name given to the Apostle Peter by Jesus, as recorded in the New Testament. Not traditionally associated with Aboriginal or Māori languages.

Meaning

Literal translation is 'rock' or 'stone'. In Australian English contexts, it signifies strength, stability, and reliability, often used metaphorically to denote a steadfast person.

Pronunciation

/ˈsiːfəs/ - SEE-fəs, with stress on the first syllable, typical in Australian English pronunciation, akin to the pronunciation of 'Sepp' with an added syllable.

Variants & Nicknames

Name Days

• 29 June (Feast of Saint Peter, also recognized as Cephas in some Christian traditions)
• 29 June (Catholic and Anglican feast day)
• 28 June (Orthodox tradition marking the same feast)

Name Pairings

Names that pair well with cephas:

• John and Peter; Mary and Martha; Luke and Paul
• Surnames or double-barrelled names like 'Cephas-John' or 'Mary-Cephas' for complementary pairing.
• E.g., 'Cephas and James' for siblings.

Fun Facts

• The name Cephas appears in the New Testament, symbolising 'rock' in early Christian theology.
• Famous Australian rugby player Phillip 'Cephas' was known for his solid defence, metaphorically linked to the name's meaning.
• Rarely used as a given name in modern Australia, but noted for its biblical and historical significance.

Personality Traits

Common traits associated with the name cephas:

• Steadfastness
• Strength
• Reliability
• Spiritual depth

Aesthetic Qualities

The name has a classical, biblical aesthetic, with a simple yet strong visual appeal, often associated with religious iconography and traditional fonts.

Geographical Distribution

Mostly found among religious communities in Australia, particularly those with strong biblical traditions, prevalent in states with higher religious engagement such as Tasmania and South Australia.

Numerological Significance

Name number 9 in numerology, associated with universal love, compassionate service, and humanitarianism; suggests a personality with a deep sense of justice and spiritual openness.

Astrological Connections

No direct zodiac association, but its biblical and spiritual roots may loosely connect with properties attributed to Pisces or Scorpio, signs linked with spirituality and transformation.

Historical Context

The name is primarily biblical, associated with Saint Peter's alternate name. It is occasionally referenced in religious literature and used in some Christian communities in Australia, particularly within Catholic and Orthodox traditions.

Linguistic Adaptability

The name adapts well across Christian languages; in non-English contexts, it retains its biblical form with minor phonetic adjustments, such as 'Cephas' in French or 'Cefa' in some Eastern European languages.

Famous People Named cephas

• None as a given name; more recognized as a biblical or religious term.
• Several Australian theologians and clergymen have used the name in historical texts.
• Notable individuals bearing the name in historical religious texts include Saint Peter.

Popularity in Australia