middle voice from ἐπί and καλέω; to entitle; by implication, to invoke (for aid, worship, testimony, decision, etc.):--appeal (unto), call (on, upon), surname.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ἐπικαλέομαι (epikaléomai)**, represented by `{{G1941}}`, means to entitle or, by implication, to invoke for various purposes such as aid, worship, testimony, or decision. It appears **33 times** across **32 unique verses**, demonstrating its versatile role in scripture. Its applications range from assigning a surname to a person to making a formal appeal to a high authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1941}}` is used in three primary ways. First, it is used to assign a name or title, as when Judas is "surnamed Iscariot" [[Luke 22:3]] or when Joses is "surnamed Barnabas" by the apostles [[Acts 4:36]]. Second, it signifies the act of invoking a divine being for salvation or help. This is seen in the foundational promise that "whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved" ([[Romans 10:13]], [[Acts 2:21]]). Stephen, as he was being stoned, was "calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit" [[Acts 7:59]]. Third, it is used in a legal sense to make an appeal to a higher authority, most notably when Paul declares, "I appeal unto Caesar" [[Acts 25:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G1941}}`:
* `{{G2564}}` **kaléō** (to "call"): As the root of `{{G1941}}`, this word signifies a direct calling. It is used in a theological sense when God has "called you out of darkness into his marvellous light" [[1 Peter 2:9]], establishing a divine summons.
* `{{G1567}}` **ekzētéō** (to search out, seek after): This word describes the active pursuit of God. It is used alongside `{{G1941}}` to show that the Gentiles, upon whom the Lord's name "is called," would "seek after the Lord" [[Acts 15:17]].
* `{{G2723}}` **katēgoréō** (to accuse): This word provides a direct contrast to the legal sense of appealing. Paul is forced to appeal `{{G1941}}` to Caesar precisely because his accusers "accuse" `{{G2723}}` him of wrongdoing [[Acts 25:11]].
* `{{G4336}}` **proseúchomai** (to pray to God): This term for prayer is closely related to invoking God's name. Believers are instructed to pursue righteousness with others who "call on" `{{G1941}}` the Lord [[2 Timothy 2:22]], an act often accomplished through prayer `{{G4336}}`.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1941}}` is significant, highlighting key aspects of the believer's relationship with God.
* **Invocation for Salvation:** The act of "calling on the name of the Lord" is presented as a direct path to salvation ([[Romans 10:13]], [[Acts 2:21]]). This establishes invocation not merely as a cry for help, but as a foundational act of faith required for redemption [[Romans 10:14]].
* **Divine Identification:** The term is used to express a covenental relationship. God is not ashamed "to be called their God" [[Hebrews 11:16]], and believers are identified by "that worthy name by the which ye are called" [[James 2:7]]. This connects the act of naming with belonging to God.
* **Appeal to Ultimate Authority:** Just as Paul appealed `{{G1941}}` to Caesar, believers are shown to "call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth" [[1 Peter 1:17]]. This elevates the concept from a legal right to a spiritual one, where God is the ultimate and impartial judge to whom believers can appeal.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1941}}` is a multifaceted term that extends beyond a simple act of calling. It encompasses the spectrum of giving an identity, invoking a higher power for salvation, and appealing for a just verdict. Whether identifying a person by a surname, articulating the core requirement for salvation, or exercising a legal right, **epikaléomai** defines a critical action of appeal and invocation that shapes identity and relationship, both human and divine.
TRV