ΟΝΟΜΑ
The Greek word onoma (ὄνομα), deeply rooted in the Proto-Indo-European tradition, stands as the core of identity, reputation, and essence. From classical philosophy, where its relation to reality is explored, to Christian theology, where the 'Divine Name' carries supreme power and authority, onoma is far more than a mere label. Its lexarithmos (231) is associated with concepts of order, creation, and spiritual security.
Definition
According to the Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon, ὄνομα (to) initially signifies 'a name, appellation' of a person or thing, its designation. Its meaning quickly expands to encompass a person's 'fame, reputation, character,' as the name is often identified with one's public image. In classical Greek literature, ὄνομα is also used to denote a 'pretext' or 'excuse' for an action, suggesting a dimension where the name can obscure the truth.
In philosophy, particularly in Plato's dialogue 'Cratylus,' ὄνομα becomes the subject of intense inquiry regarding its nature: whether names are 'by nature' (φύσει, inherent in the essence of things) or 'by convention' (θέσει, products of human agreement). This discussion laid the groundwork for onomatology and the philosophy of language. Aristotle, for his part, considers the name as a 'symbol' (σύμβολον) that signifies something, but not in a natural way.
In religious and theological thought, ὄνομα acquires particular weight. In the Old Testament (through the Septuagint translation), 'the Name' (the Tetragrammaton YHWH) is synonymous with God's presence, power, and essence. In the New Testament, 'the name of Jesus' carries authority, salvation, and divine power, making it a central element of Christian faith and worship. The invocation of God's or Christ's name is not merely a reference but an active participation in the divine presence and power.
Etymology
Cognate words in Greek include the verb ὀνομάζω ('to name, to call by name'), the adjective ὀνομαστός ('named, famous'), as well as compounds like ἀνώνυμος ('nameless, anonymous'), συνώνυμος ('having the same name, synonymous'), and ψευδώνυμος ('having a false name, pseudonymous'). Outside of Greek, cognates are found in Latin (nomen), Sanskrit (nāman), English (name), German (Name), and other Indo-European languages, all retaining the core meaning of appellation.
Main Meanings
- A name, designation — The primary meaning: the word or phrase used to identify a person, place, thing, or idea.
- Reputation, fame, character — The public image or renown of an individual, often linked to the value or authority associated with their name.
- Pretext, excuse — The use of a name or title as a cover or justification for an action, often with negative connotations.
- Authority, power — The power or jurisdiction attributed to a person or entity, often expressed by the phrase 'in the name of'.
- The Divine Name — In religious tradition, a reference to the essence, presence, and power of God or a deity.
- A word, term — In philosophy and linguistics, the name as a linguistic unit referring to a concept or entity.
- Noun (grammar) — The grammatical term for the category of words denoting persons, animals, things, or abstract concepts.
Philosophical Journey
The concept of onoma has traversed Greek thought since antiquity, evolving from a simple designation into a profound philosophical and theological subject.
In Ancient Texts
Three significant passages highlighting the multifaceted meaning of onoma in ancient Greek literature and Christian theology:
Lexarithmic Analysis
The lexarithmos of the word ΟΝΟΜΑ is 231, from the sum of its letter values:
231 decomposes into 200 (hundreds) + 30 (tens) + 1 (units).
The 18 Methods
Applying the 18 traditional lexarithmic methods to the word ΟΝΟΜΑ:
| Method | Result | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Isopsephy | 231 | Base lexarithmos |
| Decade Numerology | 6 | 2+3+1=6 — The Hexad, representing creation, order, and harmony, suggesting the structured nature of identity. |
| Letter Count | 5 | 5 letters — The Pentad, symbolizing humanity, the senses, and life, emphasizing the human dimension of naming. |
| Cumulative | 1/30/200 | Units 1 · Tens 30 · Hundreds 200 |
| Odd/Even | Odd | Masculine force |
| Left/Right Hand | Right | Divine (≥100) |
| Quotient | — | Comparative method |
| Notarikon | O-N-O-M-A | A possible interpretation through notarikon could be: 'Ho Nomos Ho Megas Alethes' (The Great True Law), suggesting the truth and order inherent in a name. |
| Grammatical Groups | 3V · 2C | Three vowels (ο, ο, α) and two consonants (ν, μ), indicating a balanced structure that allows for clarity and recognition. |
| Palindromes | No | |
| Onomancy | — | Comparative |
| Sphere of Democritus | — | Divination with lunar day |
| Zodiacal Isopsephy | Moon ☽ / Cancer ♋ | 231 mod 7 = 0 · 231 mod 12 = 3 |
Isopsephic Words (231)
Words from the Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon sharing the same lexarithmos (231), revealing hidden connections and enhancing the understanding of ὄνομα:
The LSJ lexicon contains a total of 31 words with lexarithmos 231. For the full catalog and AI semantic filtering, see the interactive tool.
Sources & Bibliography
- Liddell, H. G., Scott, R., Jones, H. S. — A Greek-English Lexicon, 9th ed. with revised supplement. Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1996.
- Plato — Cratylus. Translated by C. D. C. Reeve. Indianapolis: Hackett Publishing Company, 1998.
- Aristotle — On Interpretation. Translated by J. L. Ackrill. Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1963.
- Diels, H., Kranz, W. — Die Fragmente der Vorsokratiker. 6th ed. Berlin: Weidmannsche Buchhandlung, 1951.
- Nestle, E., Aland, K. — Novum Testamentum Graece, 28th revised edition. Stuttgart: Deutsche Bibelgesellschaft, 2012.
- Homer — Odyssey. Edited by W. B. Stanford. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 1919 (Loeb Classical Library).