The Sons of Thunder?

[Sentient Zero]

Mark 3:17 "And James the son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James; and he surnamed them 'Boanerges', which is, 'The sons of thunder'. "

Is there anyone out there who can explain to me the meaning behind this? I've wondered about this peculiar, and somewhat pro-wrestlingesque naming for some time. Any help would be appreciated.

[mama_bear]

I think it has something to do with them having a temper.

[zeal4thelord]

I had heard that it was because they were the ones who wanted to call down fire from heaven on the Samaritan village (in Luke 9:53-55) to consume the village as Elijah had done.
I suppose there could be lots of reasons but this is the only specific incident alluded to in the Bible involving James and John, which could explain it.

[WisdmInTheWorks]

Some commentaries read as zeal4thelord said. Others read along these lines:

Gill;

and he surnamed them Boanerges, which is, the sons of thunder: either because of their loud and sonorous voice; or their warm zeal for Christ, and fervency in their ministry: or for their courage in opposing the enemies of Christ, and the power that went along with their words; which either put to confusion and silence, or issued in conviction and conversion.