In the biblical narrative, renaming events hold significant theological and symbolic importance. These events often signify a transformation in the individual's life, mission, or relationship with God. Throughout the Scriptures, God or His representatives rename individuals to reflect a new identity or purpose aligned with divine plans.

Abram to Abraham

One of the most notable renaming events 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, promising that he will be the patriarch of a multitude of nations. The name "Abraham" means "father of a multitude," reflecting the fulfillment of God's promise.

Sarai to Sarah

Similarly, in Genesis 17:15, God renames Sarai to Sarah. The BSB records, "As for Sarai your wife, do not call her Sarai, for her name will be Sarah." The change from Sarai, meaning "my princess," to Sarah, meaning "princess," underscores her role as the matriarch of nations and the mother of Isaac, through whom God's covenant would continue.

Jacob to Israel

Another significant renaming event is found in Genesis 32:28, where Jacob is renamed Israel after wrestling with God. The BSB states, "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.'" The name "Israel" means "he struggles with God," highlighting Jacob's perseverance and the transformation of his character. This event marks a pivotal moment in Jacob's life and the history of the Israelites, as it establishes the name of the nation descended from him.

Hoshea to Joshua

In Numbers 13:16, Moses renames Hoshea son of Nun to Joshua. The BSB notes, "These are the names of the men Moses sent to spy out the land. And Moses gave Hoshea son of Nun the name Joshua." The name "Joshua" means "The LORD is salvation," which is fitting for the leader who would succeed Moses and lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. This renaming signifies Joshua's divine mission and the role he would play in fulfilling God's promises to Israel.

Simon to Peter

In the New Testament, Jesus renames Simon to Peter in Matthew 16:18. The BSB records, "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." The name "Peter" means "rock," symbolizing the foundational role Peter would have in the early church. This renaming event underscores Peter's future leadership and the strength of the church that would be built upon his confession of faith.

Saul to Paul

Although not explicitly described as a renaming event by God, the transformation of Saul to Paul in the Book of Acts is significant. Saul, a persecutor of Christians, becomes Paul, an apostle to the Gentiles, after his conversion experience on the road to Damascus (Acts 9). The name "Paul" means "small" or "humble," reflecting his new identity and mission to spread the Gospel. This change is first noted in Acts 13:9, "Then Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked directly at Elymas."

Renaming events in the Bible are profound moments that mark a change in identity and purpose, often associated with a deeper relationship with God and a new role in His divine plan. These events serve as reminders of God's sovereignty and His ability to transform lives for His glory.