Old Testament
Genesis 17:5
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"Your name will no longer be Abram. Instead, your name will be Abraham, because I have made you a father of many nations."
Compare translations
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.
What Genesis 17:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, God is changing Abram's name to Abraham, which means 'father of many.' This change signifies a new identity and purpose for Abram. God is not just altering a name; He is declaring that Abram will be the ancestor of numerous nations. This promise highlights God's power to transform lives and fulfill His plans. It shows that God sees potential in us that we may not recognize ourselves. By giving Abram a new name, God is inviting him into a deeper relationship and a greater mission. This moment is a reminder that our identities can be reshaped by divine purpose, leading us to a future filled with hope and possibility. It encourages us to embrace the changes God brings into our lives, trusting that they are part of a larger plan for our growth and impact in the world. We are called to step into our new identities with faith and courage, just as Abraham did, knowing that we are part of something much bigger than ourselves. Our names and lives can reflect the promises God has for us.
How to apply Genesis 17:5 to your life
Consider how your identity shapes your life. Are there aspects of your life that need transformation? Embrace the changes God is bringing, trusting that they lead to a greater purpose. Remember, you are part of a bigger story, just like Abraham was. Step into your new identity with confidence and faith in God's plan for you. You are more than you think you are, and your life can impact many others around you. Keep moving
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Abraham's story: A New Name: Abraham (Genesis 17:1–27)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Abraham
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Genesis 17:5
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Genesis 17:5
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 17:5 mean?
Genesis 17:5 describes God changing Abram's name to Abraham, which means 'father of many.' This signifies a new identity and purpose for Abram, indicating that he will be the ancestor of numerous nations.
What is the significance of the name change in Genesis 17:5?
The name change from Abram to Abraham represents a transformation in identity and mission. It highlights God's promise that Abram will be a father to many nations, emphasizing the potential and purpose God sees in him.
What does Abraham's new identity represent in Genesis 17:5?
Abraham's new identity represents a calling to a greater purpose and the fulfillment of God's promise. It illustrates how God can reshape our identities for His plans and the impact we can have on the world.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.