Genesis 17:5 Meaning and Explanation
“Neither shall thy name any more be called Abram, but thy name shall be Abraham; for a father of many nations have I made thee.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God changes Abram's name to Abraham, reflecting his new identity as father of many nations.
The Context of Genesis 17:5
God renames Abram to Abraham, sealing his identity as father of many nations.
What Does Genesis 17:5 Mean?
In Scripture, a name change signals a new identity and calling from God. Abram means father of a high father, but Abraham contains the Hebrew ab-hamon, suggesting father of a multitude. The name shift reflects God's redefinition of Abram's purpose and destiny. This is not a human choice but a divine declaration that transforms identity.
The reason God gives—for a father of many nations have I made thee—shows the name change grounds Abram's identity in what God has already accomplished, not what Abram will earn. God speaks the promise as already complete, binding Abram to a future that is certain in God's sight.
Genesis 17:5 in the Original Language
Abraham (אַבְרָהָם), likely 'father of multitude' — the name encodes the promise of innumerable descendants.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 17:5
What does Genesis 17:5 mean?
God changes Abram's name to Abraham, reflecting his new identity as father of many nations.
What is the context of Genesis 17:5?
God renames Abram to Abraham, sealing his identity as father of many nations.