Book of Genesis - Chapter 17 - Verse 5

When God changed Abram's name to Abraham in Genesis 17:5, He was symbolizing a significant transformation and calling in his life. The name Abram means "exalted father," while the name Abraham means "father of a multitude." This change in name reflected God's promise to Abraham that he would not only be the father of a great nation, but also the father of many nations. It signified God's plan to bless and multiply Abraham's descendants, making him a key figure in the history of salvation. Through this name change, God was affirming His covenant with Abraham and reminding him of the role he was to play in fulfilling God's promise of a chosen people. As we continue to explore the Bible verse by verse, we see how names hold significant meanings and how God uses them to convey His plans and purposes for His people.

Genesis 17:5 marks a significant moment in the biblical narrative as God changes Abram's name to Abraham. This change signifies a shift in identity and reflects God's promise to make him a "father of many nations." The name Abram means "exalted father," while Abraham means "father of a multitude." This new name reflects the new role and destiny God has for Abraham, to be the father of many nations. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promise and the importance of identity in God's redemptive plan. This verse also highlights the power of God to transform and bless individuals beyond their wildest dreams, as seen in Abraham's transition from a childless man to a patriarch of many nations. Through a word study, we can see the significance of names in the Bible and how they often reflect the character, calling, or destiny of those who bear them, underscoring God's sovereignty in shaping the lives of His people.