Our upcoming article brings together leading experts and theologians to explore the historical, anthropological, and theological legacy of the people who gave the world the Bible and the Torah. This special feature will examine the profound significance behind biblical name changes—such as Avraham to Abraham, Sarai to Sarah, Saul to Paul, and Jacob to Israel—and uncover the deeper meanings these transformations hold. Don’t miss this insightful exploration into ancient tradition and spiritual identity.
Why did God sometimes change a person’s name in the Bible?
SLING NEWS: The phenomenon of name changes in the biblical narrative holds substantial theological and sociocultural significance. In numerous instances, God initiates a change of name—such as transforming Abram (“exalted father”) into Abraham (“father of many nations”)—to demarcate a pivotal shift in identity, vocation, and the establishment of a covenantal relationship. These onomastic transformations are not merely nominal but function as performative acts that signal a divinely ordained alteration in destiny and social status. Further examples include Sarai becoming Sarah, Jacob being renamed Israel, and Saul’s transition to Paul. Each instance encapsulates a broader motif: the redefinition of personal and communal identity in response to divine mandate. Such practices are emblematic of ancient Near Eastern traditions, in which names encapsulate both existential purpose and relational status. Thus, biblical name changes serve as narrative devices that highlight profound spiritual metamorphosis, covenantal legitimacy, and God’s direct intervention in the unfolding of salvation history, much as monarchs do when they take new names.
Abram-Abraham, Sarai-Sarah, Jacob-Israel, Saul-Paul