In the biblical narrative, names often hold profound significance, reflecting the character, destiny, or divine calling of individuals. This practice underscores the belief that names are not merely labels but encapsulate the essence and purpose of a person as ordained by God.

Old Testament Examples

1. Abram to Abraham: Originally named Abram, meaning "exalted father," God changed his name to Abraham, meaning "father of many nations," to reflect the covenant promise that he would be the progenitor of a multitude of nations (Genesis 17:5: "No longer will you be called Abram, but your name will be Abraham, for I have made you a father of many nations").

2. Sarai to Sarah: Similarly, Sarai's name was changed to Sarah, meaning "princess," signifying her role as the mother of nations and kings (Genesis 17:15-16: "As for Sarai your wife, do not call her Sarai, for her name will be Sarah. And I will bless her and will surely give you a son by her").

3. Jacob to Israel: Jacob, whose name means "supplanter" or "heel-grabber," was renamed Israel, meaning "he struggles with God," after wrestling with the angel of the Lord. This new name signified his transformation and the future of his descendants as God's chosen people (Genesis 32:28: "Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with men, and you have prevailed").

4. Moses: The name Moses is derived from the Hebrew verb "mashah," meaning "to draw out," reflecting his rescue from the Nile and his future role in leading the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 2:10: "She named him Moses, saying, 'I drew him out of the water'").

New Testament Examples

1. Simon to Peter: Jesus renamed Simon as Peter, meaning "rock," to signify his foundational role in the early Church (Matthew 16:18: "And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it").

2. Saul to Paul: Although the Bible does not explicitly state a divine renaming, Saul, meaning "asked for," became known as Paul, meaning "small" or "humble," reflecting his transformation and mission to the Gentiles (Acts 13:9: "Then Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked directly at Elymas").

3. Barnabas: Originally named Joseph, he was called Barnabas by the apostles, meaning "son of encouragement," highlighting his role in supporting and encouraging the early Christian community (Acts 4:36: "Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (meaning Son of Encouragement)").

Theological Significance

The practice of naming in the Bible is deeply theological, often indicating a divine purpose or transformation. Names serve as a testament to God's sovereignty and His intimate involvement in the lives of His people. They are a reminder of the identity and mission bestowed upon individuals by God, often foreshadowing their roles in His divine plan. This tradition underscores the belief that God knows and calls each person by name, with a specific purpose and destiny in His redemptive history.