Abram and Abraham
Genesis 17:5
Abram was renamed Abraham as part of God’s covenant and the promise that he would become the father of many nations.
WHAT’S IN A NAME?
“A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.”
In Scripture, a name could communicate history, family, character, circumstances, reputation or a new season of responsibility. But not every modern name has one ancient definition. Some names come from established languages, while others are creative combinations, altered spellings or names carrying a meaning known primarily by the family who chose them.
We will tell you what can be supported, what is only possible and what is not currently known. Your name deserves truth—not a made-up definition.
NAMES, IDENTITY AND PURPOSE IN SCRIPTURE
Sarai and Sarah
Genesis 17:15–16
God changed Sarai’s name to Sarah alongside His covenant promise that she would be the mother of nations.
Jacob and Israel
Genesis 32:28; 35:10
After wrestling at Peniel, Jacob was named Israel. His story afterwards still includes family conflict and favoritism—the new name marked a turning point, not instant perfection.
Simon, Cephas and Peter
John 1:42; Matthew 16:18
Simon was his personal name. Cephas is the Aramaic form and Peter the Greek form; both communicate the idea of stone or rock. His story still includes fear, impulsiveness, denial, restoration and growth.
Hoshea and Joshua
Numbers 13:16
Moses called Hoshea son of Nun “Joshua.”
Joseph and Barnabas
Acts 4:36
The apostles called Joseph “Barnabas,” which the passage explains as “son of encouragement.”
Saul and Paul
Acts 13:9
Saul was his Jewish/Hebrew name and Paul his Roman/Latin name. Acts shifts to “Paul” as his Gentile mission develops, but Scripture does not record a divine renaming like Abram to Abraham.
Common claim
“God changed Saul’s name to Paul after his conversion.”
What the text says
“Saul, who was also called Paul.” — Acts 13:9
Why this matters
SutherN Gent must teach what Scripture says, not repeat a popular claim simply because it sounds meaningful.
What’s in a Name? provides historical, linguistic and biblical research for education and reflection. Meanings may vary across languages, cultures and sources. When an origin cannot be verified, SutherN Gent will say so.