ἐπικαλέω (epikaleō)
epikaleō
to call (on)/name
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 31 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb epikaleō carries the basic sense of calling upon someone, whether to assign a name or to seek help. In its simplest form, it means to surname or label a person, as seen when Jesus predicts that disciples will be called by the same name as their master (Matthew 10:25) or when Barnabas and Saul are identified by their common names in Acts.
More significantly, the word describes invoking a name for aid or witness. This usage appears when Stephen cries out to the Lord during his execution (Acts 7:59) or when Paul explains that calling on the name of the Lord leads to salvation (Romans 10:13). It also functions in legal contexts, such as when Paul appeals to Caesar for a fair trial (Acts 25:11).
The theological weight of this word lies in its connection to identity and reliance. To call on the name of the Lord is not merely to speak words but to place one’s trust in that person’s authority and power. This link between naming and belonging is a recurring theme in both the Old and New Testaments, showing how language shapes spiritual reality.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word epikaleō carries two distinct meanings that touch different parts of our daily lives. On one hand, it describes how we name or identify people, such as when Jesus notes that disciples are called by the same name as their master. This highlights a deep connection between who we follow and how we are known by others. It reminds us that our identity is often shaped by the relationships we choose to maintain.
On the other hand, this word describes the act of calling out for help or invoking a name in trust. When Stephen cried out to Jesus as he was being stoned, or when Paul explained that salvation comes to those who call on the Lord’s name, he was speaking of total reliance. This is not just about saying words; it is about placing your confidence in someone else’s power and authority to save you.
For your faith, this means you are never alone in your struggles. Whether you are seeking guidance or facing difficult circumstances, you can call on the Lord with the same trust that early believers showed. This act of calling is an invitation to rest in His care, knowing that He hears those who seek Him with sincere hearts.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 31 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- calling on5×
- is called4×
- having been called4×
- you call on1×
- was called1×
- to be called1×
- to appeal to1×
- they shall call upon1×
- they called on,1×
- shall they call1×
- may call upon1×
- is being called1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐπικαλουμένους3×
- ἐπικληθεὶς2×
- ἐπικαλέσηται2×
- ἐπικαλούμενον2×
- ἐπικαλεῖται2×
- ἐπικαλεσαμένου2×
- ἐπικέκληται1×
- ἐπικέκλησαι,1×
- ἐπικληθέντα1×
- ἐπικληθὲν1×
- ἐπικαλέσωνται1×
- ἐπικαλέσασθαι1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 2:21
It will be that whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.’
This verse quotes Joel to show that calling on the Lord’s name is the specific path to salvation, linking identity directly to rescue.
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Romans 10:13
For, “Whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
Paul repeats this promise to emphasize that salvation is available to everyone who calls, regardless of their background.
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Acts 7:59
They stoned Stephen as he called out, saying, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit!”
Stephen’s final prayer demonstrates calling on Jesus in a moment of extreme suffering, showing trust in His authority over life and death.
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Matthew 10:25
It is enough for the disciple that he be like his teacher, and the servant like his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more those of his household!
Here the word refers to naming or labeling, illustrating that followers share the same reputation as their master.