Genesis 17:5

Authorized King James Version

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.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְלֹֽא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יִקָּרֵ֥א

H7121

any more be called

to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)

ע֛וֹד

H5750

properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

שִׁמְךָ֙

H8034

Neither shall thy name

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

אַבְרָ֑ם

H87

Abram

abram, the original name of abraham

וְהָיָ֤ה

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

שִׁמְךָ֙

H8034

Neither shall thy name

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

אַבְרָהָ֔ם

H85

shall be Abraham

abraham, the later name of abram

#10

כִּ֛י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

#11

אַב

for a father

father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application

#12

הֲמ֥וֹן

H1995

of many

a noise, tumult, crowd; also disquietude, wealth

#13

גּוֹיִ֖ם

H1471

nations

a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts

#14

נְתַתִּֽיךָ׃

H5414

have I made thee

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

Analysis

This verse develops the creation and providence theme central to Genesis. The concept of covenant community reflects God's absolute sovereignty over all existence. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to foundational narrative establishing God's relationship with creation and humanity, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the patriarchal period (c. 2000-1500 BCE) and primeval history provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The ancient Near Eastern world with its creation myths, flood narratives, and patriarchal social structures provided the cultural backdrop against which God's revelation stands in stark contrast. The ancient Near Eastern cosmology and patriarchal society would have shaped how the original audience understood covenant community. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Ancient Near Eastern creation texts like Enuma Elish provide comparative context for understanding Genesis's unique theological perspective.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of covenant community differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding covenant community in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about creation and providence?
How does this verse's literary context within Genesis chapter 17 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

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