### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ἐπονομάζω (eponomázō, `{{G2028}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition ἐπί (epí, `{{G1909}}`), meaning "upon" or "in addition to," and the verb ὀνομάζω (onomázō, `{{G3687}}`), meaning "to name" or "to call by name." The combination yields a precise semantic range: "to name upon," "to call by a specific designation," or "to denominate." It implies not merely the act of naming, but the attribution of a name or characteristic that applies *to* or *upon* someone, thereby conferring a specific identity or status. The core idea is that of an appellation or an additional, defining name.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb ἐπονομάζω (eponomázō, `{{G2028}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in Paul's Epistle to the Romans:
* [[Romans 2:17]]: "Behold, you are called (ἐπονομάζῃ) a Jew, and rest in the law, and make your boast in God."
In this sole occurrence, Paul addresses the Jewish people, specifically their reliance on their ethnic and religious identity. The use of ἐπονομάζῃ (eponomázē) is highly significant. It points to the external designation or appellation of being "called a Jew." This designation was a source of pride and privilege, implying a unique relationship with God, access to the Law, and the right to boast in God. However, Paul immediately challenges the efficacy of this mere designation if it is not accompanied by corresponding obedience and ethical living. The verb underscores the *fact* of their being named or denominated as "Jew," setting the stage for Paul's critique of hypocrisy among those who bear the name but do not live up to its implications. It highlights the contrast between an ascribed identity and a lived reality.
### Related Words & Concepts
* ὀνομάζω (onomázō, `{{G3687}}`): The base verb, meaning "to name" or "to call by name." ἐπονομάζω (eponomázō, `{{G2028}}`) builds upon this, adding the nuance of a specific or additional designation.
* ὄνομα (ónoma, `{{G3686}}`): The noun "name," from which both verbs are derived.
* καλέω (kaleō, `{{G2564}}`): "To call." While ἐπονομάζω (eponomázō, `{{G2028}}`) is translated as "called" in [[Romans 2:17]], it carries a more specific sense of "being designated as" or "being given the appellation of" rather than the general "calling" of καλέω (kaleō, `{{G2564}}`), which can refer to summoning, inviting, or naming in a broader sense. ἐπονομάζω (eponomázō, `{{G2028}}`) emphasizes the *nature* of the name or title attributed.
* Concepts: Identity, appellation, designation, status, nominalism, hypocrisy, covenant identity. The word relates to the idea of an external label versus an internal reality.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of ἐπονομάζω (eponomázō, `{{G2028}}`) in [[Romans 2:17]] carries profound theological weight. Paul employs it to expose the danger of nominalism within religious identity. To be "called a Jew" (ἐπονομάζῃ Ἰουδαῖον) was to possess a sacred, divinely bestowed identity, but Paul argues that this designation, by itself, offered no automatic guarantee of righteousness or salvation. If one who bears the name "Jew" dishonors God by transgressing the very Law in which they boast, then the name itself becomes a source of condemnation rather than commendation.
This highlights a crucial theological principle: divine favor and covenant status are not merely about external labels or inherited privileges, but about a transformed life that aligns with the character and will of God. The word serves as a powerful critique against relying on a superficial religious identity without genuine obedience and inner transformation. For the Christian, this resonates as a warning against being "called a Christian" without truly embodying the life and teachings of Christ. It underscores the New Covenant emphasis on inward circumcision of the heart over outward signs ([[Romans 2:28-29]]).
### Summary
ἐπονομάζω (eponomázō, `{{G2028}}`) is a Greek verb meaning "to name upon," "to call by a specific designation," or "to denominate." Its sole occurrence in the New Testament in [[Romans 2:17]] is highly significant, where it describes the external designation of being "called a Jew." Paul uses this word to articulate the critical distinction between a mere appellation or status and the actual living out of the implications of that name. Theologically, ἐπονομάζω (eponomázō, `{{G2028}}`) serves as a powerful critique of nominalism, emphasizing that true identity and righteousness before God are rooted not in external labels or inherited privileges, but in genuine obedience, transformed character, and a life lived in accordance with divine truth.
TRV