6:15

Matthew and Thomas: Matthew was also named Levi. Jesus called Levi to follow him in 5:27. This is the first time Thomas is mentioned in the Gospel of Luke.

James son of Alphaeus: There were two disciples with the name James. In order to distinguish this James from James the brother of John (in 6:14b), this James was referred to as James son of Alphaeus.

Alphaeus: Alphaeus is the name of James’ father.

Simon called the Zealot: There were also two disciples with the name Simon. In order to distinguish this Simon from Simon Peter (in 6:14a), this Simon was referred to as Simon…the Zealot.

the Zealot: The Greek word that the Berean Standard Bible translates as Zealot means “someone who was zealous or passionate” for Jewish independence from Rome. This would indicate this Simon wanted Israel to be free from the control of the Roman government.

Some ways to translate this are:

the Zealous One
-or-
the Patriot (Good News Translation)
-or-
the nationalist/revolutionary

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