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Cephas

Biblical
Pronunciation

Understanding ARPABET Pronunciation

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The pronunciation guide uses the ARPABET phonetic system—the same system used in speech recognition and text-to-speech applications.

Vowel Examples:
AE1 = cat, bat
EH1 = bed, head
IY1 = see, me
OW1 = go, boat
UW1 = boot, do
Stress Numbers:
0 = no stress (unstressed)
1 = primary stress (loud)
2 = secondary stress (medium)
Example:
AH0 TH IY1 N AH0
= a-THEE-na (Athena)

The stressed syllable (marked with 1) is pronounced louder and clearer than others.

Quick Definition

Aramaic name for Simon Peter, meaning “rock,” used especially by Paul

Detailed Definition
Cephas is the Aramaic equivalent of Peter, frequently used in Paul’s letters to denote the apostle who became a pillar of the early church. In poetry, Cephas evokes foundational faith, human frailty redeemed, and the paradox of a “rock” who stumbles yet is restored—symbolizing both apostolic authority and humble repentance.
Example
Example in poetry:
In John Milton’s "Paradise Lost," Cephas (Peter) is part of the apostolic foundation; In George Herbert’s "The Church-porch," Cephas’s denial and restoration model repentance; In Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s "The Seraphim," Cephas’s keys symbolize authority and mercy; In John Keble’s "The Christian Year," Cephas represents the rock of faith; In Christina Rossetti’s "Later Life," Cephas’s tears inspire humility; In T.S. Eliot’s "Four Quartets," Cephas’s journey from fisher to apostle mirrors transformation.
Additional Notes
Cephas: Aramaic name for Peter (“rock”); used by Paul (1 Cor 1:12; 3:22). In poetry, Cephas emphasizes Peter’s Jewish identity and foundational role. The name invites reflection on stability, leadership, and the tension between human frailty and divine naming. Contrast with “Peter” (Greek) to explore cultural duality or the universality of the church built on a Jewish rock.
Also Known As
Cephas the Apostle Simon Peter
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