ἐπικαλέω

I call by an additional name, appeal to

Definition

The verb ἐπικαλέω means to call upon or invoke a name, with two primary senses in the New Testament. In its active voice, it means to give or bear an additional name, as when Barnabas is also called 'Joseph' (Acts 4:36) or when a person is surnamed (Matthew 10:3). In its middle voice, which is more common, it means to call upon, appeal to, or invoke someone, especially in the context of prayer or supplication. This is most significant when calling upon the name of the Lord for salvation (Acts 2:21, Romans 10:13) or in a moment of crisis, as Stephen does when he calls upon Jesus at his death (Acts 7:59).

Biblical Usage

This verb is used 32 times, predominantly in the book of Acts (over 20 times), highlighting its importance in the narrative of the early church. It is used for naming individuals, like 'Joseph who was also called Barnabas' (Acts 4:36) and 'Saul, who also is called Paul' (Acts 13:9). Its most theologically charged usage is for invoking divine aid, as seen in the call to salvation ('everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved' in Acts 2:21) and in prayers of believers (Acts 9:14, 21; 22:16). The pattern shows a shift from simple naming to a profound spiritual appeal.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐπί (epi, meaning 'upon' or 'over') and the common verb καλέω (kaleō, meaning 'to call'). The compound form intensifies or specifies the call as being directed 'upon' someone or something. It carries the sense of invoking a name upon a person or calling out to someone with authority or need. Cognates include ἐπικλησις (epiklēsis), meaning 'a calling upon' or 'invocation.'

Semantic Range

This word is central to the biblical concept of salvation and prayer. The promise from Joel quoted in Acts 2:21 and Romans 10:13 establishes that calling upon the name of the Lord (Jesus) is the means of salvation. It signifies a personal, dependent appeal to God's power and mercy, moving beyond mere naming to a relationship of trust and rescue. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by showing that 'calling on the Lord' is an active, verbal confession of faith and reliance, not a passive state.

In the Greco-Roman world, to call upon the name of a deity was a formal act of worship, petition, or dedication. It acknowledged that deity's power and jurisdiction. For Jews and Christians, 'calling on the name of the LORD' (from the Hebrew 'qara' beshem YHWH') was a deeply rooted expression of exclusive worship and covenant relationship. The New Testament's use of this term for Jesus directly applies this divine honor to Him, a radical claim in a polytheistic culture.

καλέω (kaleō, G2564) — The simpler root verb meaning 'to call' or 'to name,' without the specific sense of invocation or additional naming. προσεύχομαι (proseuchomai, G4336) — A more general term for 'to pray,' whereas ἐπικαλέω specifically emphasizes calling upon a name. ἐπικέκλημαι (epikeklēmai, G1941) — The perfect middle/passive participle form of ἐπικαλέω, used as a title meaning 'who is called' (e.g., Acts 10:32).

Word Details

Scripture References