akin to the base of κελεύω; to "call" (properly, aloud, but used in a variety of applications, directly or otherwise):--bid, call (forth), (whose, whose sur-)name (was (called)).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **καλέω (kaléō)**, represented by `{{G2564}}`, means to **"call"**. It appears **155 times** in **138 unique verses**. The term is used in a variety of applications, from the literal act of calling out loud to the more figurative senses of giving a name, bidding, or inviting.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2564}}` is frequently used for the act of naming. An angel instructs that a son will be born and "thou shalt **call** his name John" [[Luke 1:13]]. This is also seen in the naming of Jesus [[Matthew 1:21]] and the interpretation of Emmanuel, a name which they shall **call** him [[Matthew 1:23]]. Beyond naming, it describes a divine invitation, as when Jesus states he came not to **call** the righteous, but sinners [[Matthew 9:13]]. It also establishes a new identity, where peacemakers shall be **called** the children of God [[Matthew 5:9]] and Abraham was **called** the Friend of God [[James 2:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the concept of calling:
* `{{G3870}}` **parakaléō** (to call near, i.e. invite, invoke): A compound of `kaléō`, this word emphasizes calling someone near for exhortation or comfort, as seen when believers are **beseech**ed to walk worthy of the vocation to which they are called [[Ephesians 4:1]].
* `{{G479}}` **antikaléō** (to invite in return): This specific term describes a reciprocal invitation. It is used in the instruction not to call friends to a supper, lest they **bid** thee again in return [[Luke 14:12]].
* `{{G3686}}` **ónoma** (a "name"): This word is intrinsically linked to `kaléō` in contexts of assigning identity. The act of calling is often directed at establishing a **name**, such as when an angel directs Joseph to **call** his **name** JESUS [[Matthew 1:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2564}}` is profound, central to the doctrine of salvation and Christian identity.
* **The Divine Call:** The act of being **called** by God is foundational. It is not based on works, but on His own purpose and grace [[2 Timothy 1:9]]. This call is part of a divine sequence, where those God predestined, He also **called**; and those He **called**, He also justified and glorified [[Romans 8:30]].
* **New Identity and Relationship:** Being **called** by God confers a new status and identity upon believers. They are **called** "the sons of God" [[1 John 3:1]], which establishes their new relationship with the Father. Similarly, they are a "holy nation" **called** out of darkness into His marvellous light [[1 Peter 2:9]].
* **A Call to a Specific Conduct:** The calling is not merely positional but practical. Believers are **called** unto liberty [[Galatians 5:13]] and to walk worthy of the vocation wherewith they are **called** [[Ephesians 4:1]]. This includes being **called** to be holy in all conversation [[1 Peter 1:15]] and to inherit a blessing [[1 Peter 3:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2564}}` moves beyond a simple summons to encompass core biblical themes. It is used for the fundamental act of naming, establishing identity for figures like Jesus and John the Baptist. More significantly, it defines the divine initiative in salvation, where God **calls** sinners to repentance [[Luke 5:32]] and believers into fellowship with His Son [[1 Corinthians 1:9]]. The word illustrates how God's call reshapes a person's identity and sets a new standard for their life.
TRV