Biblical Context:
The name change from Sarai to Sarah is a significant event in the biblical narrative, found in the Book of Genesis. This transformation is not merely a change in nomenclature but signifies a divine promise and covenantal relationship between God and Abraham's family. The account is located in Genesis 17, where God establishes His covenant with Abram, who is also renamed Abraham.

Scriptural Reference:
In Genesis 17:15-16 , God speaks to Abraham: "As for your wife Sarai, 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. I will bless her, and she will become the mother of nations; kings of peoples will descend from her."

Meaning and Significance:
The name "Sarai" is traditionally understood to mean "my princess," which may imply a more personal or familial role. In contrast, "Sarah" means "princess" in a broader sense, indicating her elevated status and the expansive scope of her influence as the matriarch of nations. This change underscores God's promise that Sarah would be the mother of nations and that kings would come from her lineage.

Theological Implications:
The renaming of Sarai to Sarah is emblematic of God's sovereign will and His power to transform and fulfill His promises. It highlights the theme of divine election and blessing, as Sarah is chosen to be a pivotal figure in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. Her new name reflects her role in the Abrahamic covenant, which is foundational to the narrative of the Israelites and, by extension, to the Christian faith.

Covenantal Promise:
Sarah's name change is intrinsically linked to the promise of a son, Isaac, through whom God's covenant with Abraham would be realized. Despite her advanced age and previous barrenness, God's promise to Sarah emphasizes His ability to bring life and blessing where humanly impossible. This act of renaming is a testament to God's faithfulness and the miraculous nature of His promises.

Historical and Cultural Context:
In the ancient Near Eastern context, names held significant meaning and were often reflective of one's identity and destiny. The act of God renaming Sarai to Sarah is a divine assertion of her new identity and role within His plan. It also serves as a public declaration of the change in her status and the future that God has ordained for her and her descendants.

Legacy:
Sarah's legacy as a matriarch is profound, as she is revered in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions. Her account is a testament to faith and the fulfillment of God's promises, serving as an enduring symbol of hope and divine intervention. Her name change marks a pivotal moment in biblical history, setting the stage for the birth of Isaac and the continuation of the covenantal line through which the Messiah would eventually come.