ὄνομα

name, character, reputation

Definition

The Greek word ὄνομα primarily means 'name,' but in the New Testament, it carries a rich range of meanings. It can refer to the simple identifying label of a person or place (e.g., 'Jesus' in Matthew 1:21). More significantly, it often denotes the full character, authority, and reputation of the individual, as when people are told to believe 'in the name of Jesus' (John 1:12), which means to trust in who He is and what He represents. It also signifies fame or renown, as in the desire for a good name or reputation (e.g., 3 John 1:7). In prayer, to pray in Jesus' name (John 14:13-14) is to appeal to His authority and character.

Biblical Usage

ὄνομα is used frequently throughout the New Testament (213 times), appearing in Gospels, Acts, Epistles, and Revelation. Common contexts include invoking divine authority (e.g., baptism 'in the name of' Jesus in Acts 2:38), performing miracles 'in the name' of Jesus (Acts 3:6), and prayers addressed to God the Father (Matthew 6:9, 'hallowed be your name'). A key pattern is its use to represent the totality of a person—their power, presence, and identity. In Revelation, it symbolizes ownership and character, as seen in the name written on the forehead of the faithful (Revelation 22:4).

Etymology

Derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *h₃nómn̥, meaning 'name.' It is cognate with the Latin 'nomen' and the English 'name.' In Greek, it developed from a simple label to encompass the concept of reputation and essence, a semantic range fully utilized in the Koine Greek of the New Testament.

Semantic Range

ὄνομα is theologically profound. It is central to Christology, as the name 'Jesus' means 'Yahweh saves' (Matthew 1:21), encapsulating His mission. The concept of the 'name of the Lord' signifies God's self-revelation and accessible presence. Salvation and authority are mediated through the name of Jesus (Acts 4:12). Understanding that 'name' in Scripture often means the full character and authority of the person deepens our reading of passages about faith, prayer, and worship, moving beyond a mere label to a relational reality.

In the ancient Semitic and Greco-Roman world, a name was not just an identifier but was intimately connected to a person's essence, character, destiny, and authority. To know someone's name implied a degree of relationship and power. To act 'in the name of' someone meant to act with their full power and authorization. This contrasts with a more modern, superficial view of a name as a simple tag. The biblical usage fully embraces this ancient, weighty understanding.

κλέος (kleos, G2811) — denotes glory, renown, or report, focusing more on fame than personal identity. ἐπωνυμία (eponymia, G1941) — a more formal term for a name or designation, used in Hebrews 1:4. προσηγορία (prosēgoria) — a general term for an appellation or name (not in NT, but in contemporary Greek).

Word Details

Scripture References