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A Doubting Thomas (Origin)

by Craig Shrives

What Is the Origin of the Saying "A Doubting Thomas"?

The term "a doubting Thomas" means a sceptic who needs physical or personal evidence in order to believe something.

"Doubting Thomas" can be applied to a male or a female. It derives from the Bible, when Thomas (one of the twelve apostles Of Jesus) would not believe that Jesus had come back from the dead until he saw him.

Gospel of John: Chapter 20: Verses 24-29

24: But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came.

25: The other disciples, therefore, said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.

26: And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you.

27: Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing.

28: And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.

29: Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.

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Examples of Use:

Even when presented with clear facts, he remained a doubting Thomas and refused to accept the truth.
She always questioned the intentions of others, earning her the reputation of a doubting Thomas.
His cautious nature made him a doubting Thomas, always seeking proof before accepting anything at face value.
Being a doubting Thomas can sometimes hinder one's ability to trust and embrace new ideas or opportunities.

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