ὀνομάζω

I give a name to, mention

Definition

ὀνομάζω primarily means 'to name' or 'to call by name,' as seen when Jesus names his twelve apostles (Luke 6:13-14). It also carries the sense 'to mention' or 'to speak of,' often in contexts of invoking or referring to someone, such as calling upon the name of the Lord. In a more specialized usage, it can mean 'to be named' or 'to bear a name,' reflecting identification or reputation, as in Ephesians 1:21 where every name that is named is subject to Christ. In ethical contexts, it denotes the act of naming or labeling something, as in 1 Corinthians 5:1 where a sinful behavior is 'named' among believers.

Biblical Usage

This verb appears 10 times in the New Testament across Gospels, Acts, and Epistles. In Luke 6:13-14, it is used literally for naming the apostles. In Acts 19:13, it refers to invoking the name of Jesus. Paul employs it in ethical discussions to 'name' or identify sin (1 Corinthians 5:1, 5:11) and in theological contexts about the supremacy of Christ's name (Ephesians 1:21) and the divine naming of all families (Ephesians 3:15). It also appears in missionary ambition (Romans 15:20).

Etymology

Derived from the noun ὄνομα (onoma, G3686), meaning 'name.' The verb suffix -άζω indicates action, so ὀνομάζω literally means 'to name' or 'to make a name.' It is a common Greek verb with roots in Indo-European language, emphasizing the act of assigning or using a name for identification, invocation, or declaration.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it connects to the power and identity inherent in naming. In the Bible, naming often conveys authority, character, or destiny (e.g., Jesus naming apostles). It relates to the invocation of Jesus' name for salvation and authority (Acts 19:13). Understanding ὀνομάζω enriches reading by highlighting how naming in scripture is not merely labeling but an act that establishes relationship, reveals truth, and acknowledges lordship, as seen in Christ's exalted name above every name (Ephesians 1:21).

In ancient Greek and Jewish culture, a name was deeply tied to a person's essence, reputation, or function. To name someone or something implied authority over it or intimate knowledge of it. Invoking a name, especially of a deity, was thought to access that being's power, which explains practices like in Acts 19:13. This contrasts with modern, more casual use of names.

λέγω (legō, G3004) — a broader term for 'to say' or 'speak,' not specifically focused on naming. καλέω (kaleō, G2564) — often 'to call' or 'invite,' sometimes overlapping in the sense of naming but with more emphasis on summoning or designating. ἐπικαλέω (epikaleō, G1941) — 'to call upon,' specifically used for invoking a name, especially in prayer or appeal.

Word Details

Scripture References