In the biblical narrative, the concept of receiving a new name and identity is a significant theme that symbolizes transformation, divine intervention, and a new purpose or destiny. This theme is woven throughout both the Old and New Testaments, illustrating how God often changes the names of individuals to reflect their new roles or the promises He has made to them.

Old Testament Examples

1. Abram to Abraham: In Genesis 17:5, God changes Abram's name to Abraham, saying, "No longer will you be called Abram; your name will be Abraham, for I have made you a father of many nations." This name change signifies the covenant God establishes with Abraham, marking him as the patriarch of a multitude of nations.

2. Sarai to Sarah: Similarly, in Genesis 17:15, God renames Sarai as Sarah, stating, "As for Sarai your wife, you are no longer to call her Sarai; her name will be Sarah." This change accompanies the promise that she will be a mother of nations and kings.

3. Jacob to Israel: In Genesis 32:28, after wrestling with God, Jacob is told, "Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with men and have prevailed." This new name, Israel, becomes the name of the nation descended from him, reflecting his struggle and perseverance.

4. Hoshea to Joshua: In Numbers 13:16, Moses changes the name of Hoshea son of Nun to Joshua, which means "The LORD is salvation." This renaming signifies Joshua's future role as the leader who will bring the Israelites into the Promised Land.

New Testament Examples

1. Simon to Peter: In Matthew 16:18, Jesus gives Simon the name Peter, saying, "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, meaning "rock," signifies his foundational role in the early church.

2. Saul to Paul: Although the Bible does not explicitly state a divine renaming, Acts 13:9 notes, "Then Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked directly at Elymas." The transition from Saul to Paul marks his mission to the Gentiles and his new identity as an apostle of Christ.

Symbolic and Eschatological Significance

The concept of a new name is also symbolic of spiritual renewal and eschatological hope. In Isaiah 62:2, the prophet speaks of a future time when God's people will receive a new name: "The nations will see your righteousness, and all kings your glory; you will be called by a new name that the mouth of the LORD will bestow."

In the Book of Revelation, the promise of a new name is extended to the faithful. Revelation 2:17 states, "To the one who is victorious, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone inscribed with a new name, known only to the one who receives it." This new name signifies a personal and intimate relationship with God, as well as a unique identity in the eternal kingdom.

Theological Implications

The giving of a new name in the Bible often accompanies a divine calling or mission, reflecting a transformation in the individual's life and relationship with God. It underscores the belief that God has the authority to redefine identity and purpose, aligning individuals with His divine plan. This theme resonates with the Christian understanding of conversion and sanctification, where believers are seen as new creations in Christ, as expressed in 2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!"