The meaning of “καλέω”
Understanding kaléō reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
akin to the base of κελεύω bid, call (forth), (whose, whose sur-)name (was (called)). - to "call" (properly, aloud, but ...
καλέω
akin to the base of κελεύω bid, call (forth), (whose, whose sur-)name (was (called)). - to "call" (properly, aloud, but used in a variety of applications, directly or otherwise)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 21:13 | “And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.” Word: καλέω (kaléō) | |
| Acts 13:1 | “Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.” Word: καλέω (kaléō) | |
| Ephesians 4:4 | “There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;” Word: καλέω (kaléō) | |
| 1 Timothy 6:12 | “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.” Word: καλέω (kaléō) | |
| 1 Peter 3:6 | “Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.” Word: καλέω (kaléō) |
Theological Word Study: Call
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: To call, summon, proclaim
The Hebrew qara (קָרָא) means to call—summoning by name or proclaiming. God called Abraham, Moses, and the prophets. 'Call unto me, and I will answer thee' (Jeremiah 33:3).
New Testament Usage
Meaning: To call, invite, summon
The Greek kaleo (καλέω) means to call or invite. Believers are 'called according to his purpose' (Romans 8:28), 'called unto the fellowship of his Son' (1 Corinthians 1:9), and called to holiness (1 Thessalonians 4:7).