ἐπονομάζω (eponomazō)
eponomazō
to name
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb eponomazō means to give a specific name to someone or something, effectively labeling them with an identity. Derived from roots meaning "upon" and "name," it describes the act of imposing a title rather than merely calling out for attention. This precise action appears only once in the New Testament, found in Romans 2:17.
In this single occurrence, the word is used in the passive voice to describe those who are "named" Christians. The context highlights a distinction between holding a label and living out its requirements. Paul uses this term to point out that bearing the name carries significant weight, suggesting that identity is defined by more than just a title.
Translators typically render this as "called" or "named," reflecting the straightforward nature of the word. Its rarity in Scripture underscores the specific theological point being made: possessing a name is not the same as embodying the character that name represents. The focus remains on the reality behind the designation rather than the designation itself.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word eponomazō appears only once in the New Testament, in Romans 2:17. It describes the act of being given a specific name or title. Paul uses this rare term to address those who bear the name of a Jew. He highlights that simply holding a label does not guarantee true faithfulness.
This word reminds us that identity carries weight. To be named something is to accept certain expectations. It invites reflection on whether our lives match the titles we hold. This applies to any name we carry, including Christian. The focus remains on the reality behind the designation rather than the designation itself.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- are called1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐπονομάζῃ1×
Key Verses
-
Romans 2:17
Indeed you bear the name of a Jew, rest on the law, glory in God,
Paul uses this rare passive verb to describe those who bear the name of a Jew, emphasizing that holding a title requires corresponding faithfulness.