The martyrdom of the apostles is a central tenet of Christian tradition, often cited as evidence of the truth of their testimony. However, the historical evidence for these martyrdoms varies widely, and scholars continue to debate their authenticity. This page examines the specific evidence available for each apostle's martyrdom.
The evidence for the apostles' martyrdoms is largely based on late Christian traditions, and therefore is not strong evidence for the truth of Christianity.
Date of Death: c. 64-67 AD
Method: Crucifixion (possibly upside-down)
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Date of Death: c. 64-67 AD
Method: Beheading
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Date of Death: c. 62 AD
Method: Stoning
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Date of Death: c. 100 AD (natural causes)
Method: N/A (survived persecution)
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Date of Death: c. 44 AD
Method: Beheading
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Date of Death: Unknown (tradition: 60-70 AD)
Method: Crucifixion (tradition)
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Date of Death: Unknown
Method: Crucifixion (tradition)
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Date of Death: Unknown
Method: Flaying and crucifixion (tradition)
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Date of Death: Unknown
Method: Spear thrust (tradition)
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Date of Death: Unknown
Method: Natural death or martyrdom (conflicting traditions)
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Date of Death: Unknown
Method: Stoning and clubbing (tradition)
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Date of Death: Unknown
Method: Unknown (martyrdom traditions vary)
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Date of Death: Unknown
Method: Sawn in half (tradition)
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The historicity of the apostles' martyrdoms remains a subject of debate. While early Christian traditions and some historical context support the general idea of apostolic martyrdom, specific details often rely on later, potentially legendary sources. The strongest cases for historicity can be made for Peter, Paul, and James (brother of Jesus), while evidence for others is more tenuous.
Ehrman, Bart D. "Peter, Paul, and Mary Magdalene: The Followers of Jesus in History and Legend" (2006)