In the biblical narrative, the act of renaming serves as a significant testament to transformation, divine intervention, and covenantal relationships. Throughout Scripture, God and His chosen leaders often rename individuals to signify a new identity, purpose, or destiny aligned with divine will. This practice underscores the transformative power of God's calling and the establishment of a new phase in the life of the individual or community.

Old Testament Instances

1. Abram to Abraham: One of the most notable instances of renaming occurs in Genesis 17:5, where God changes Abram's name to Abraham. The Berean Standard Bible states, "No longer will you be called Abram; your name will be Abraham, for I have made you a father of many nations." This renaming signifies the covenant God establishes with Abraham, marking him as the patriarch of a multitude of nations and a key figure in God's redemptive plan.

2. Sarai to Sarah: Similarly, in Genesis 17:15, God renames Sarai to Sarah, saying, "As for Sarai your wife, do not call her Sarai, for her name will be Sarah." This change accompanies the promise that she will be a mother of nations and kings, reinforcing her role in the divine promise alongside Abraham.

3. Jacob to Israel: In Genesis 32:28, after wrestling with God, Jacob is renamed Israel. The BSB records, "Then the man said, 'Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with men and have prevailed.'" This renaming marks a pivotal moment in Jacob's life, symbolizing his transformation and the birth of the nation of Israel.

4. Hoshea to Joshua: In Numbers 13:16, Moses renames Hoshea son of Nun to Joshua. The name Joshua, meaning "The LORD is salvation," foreshadows his role as the leader who will bring the Israelites into the Promised Land, succeeding Moses.

New Testament Instances

1. Simon to Peter: In the New Testament, Jesus renames Simon as Peter. In Matthew 16:18 , Jesus declares, "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." This renaming signifies Peter's foundational role in the early Church and his leadership among the apostles.

2. Saul to Paul: Although the Bible does not explicitly record a divine renaming, Saul of Tarsus becomes known as Paul after his conversion (Acts 13:9). This change reflects his new mission as the apostle to the Gentiles and his transformed identity in Christ.

Theological Significance

Renaming in the Bible is more than a mere change of nomenclature; it is a testament to God's sovereign authority and the transformative power of His call. It often accompanies a divine promise or mission, marking a new beginning or a deeper understanding of one's identity in relation to God. The new names often encapsulate the essence of the individual's role in God's plan, serving as a constant reminder of their divine purpose and the covenantal relationship they share with the Almighty.

Symbolism and Application

In a broader sense, the concept of renaming can be seen as symbolic of the spiritual transformation that occurs in the life of a believer. As individuals come to faith in Christ, they are given a new identity as children of God, reflecting the transformative power of the Gospel. This spiritual renaming is a testament to the believer's new life in Christ, characterized by a renewed purpose and a commitment to live according to God's will.