This name, possibly a shortened form of Theodoros ('gift of God'), identifies a failed revolutionary mentioned by Gamaliel in Acts. According to Gamaliel's speech, Theudas claimed to be somebody important, attracted about four hundred followers, but was killed and his movement scattered. The historical identification is debated—Josephus mentions a Theudas active later than this speech. The name serves Gamaliel's argument that if the apostles' movement isn't from God, it will likewise fail. Like many biblical names, it provides a brief window into the turbulent political landscape of first-century Judea.