Names and naming as a literary-theological strategy in the Book of Revelation

Abstract

In this dissertation, a comprehensive theo-onomastic analysis of the biblical book of Revelation is conducted, focusing on the role of names and naming as a fundamental literary- theological strategy in articulating the cosmic conflict theme within the text. In Revelation, naming extends beyond mere identification; it reveals the intrinsic nature and narrative function of the characters. In this study, a “name” encompasses proper nouns, epithets, titles, and participial phrases that frequently substitute for proper nouns, as exemplified in the book of Revelation (e.g., 17:5; 19:11, 13, 16). This study categorises the principal actors in the book into two primary groups: good and evil. Their names are either prescribed or ascribed. Good characters possess the autonomy to prescribe their own names and the ability to self- prescribe, thereby articulating a self-determined identity, whereas evil entities, led by Satan, are assigned names by the narrator's authority. The theo-onomastic methodology employs a four-tiered analytical framework that examines (a) the types of names used, (b) the naming techniques employed in their introduction, (c) the literary–theological profiles that emerge from these practices, and (d) the function of these characters within the broader cosmic conflict. By systematically identifying distinguishing characteristics and naming patterns, the categorised names are interpreted in relation to the cosmic battle between good and evil. The synthesis of these findings results in a coherent model that explains how naming strategies position characters as heroes or villains. Ultimately, it is concluded that Revelation deliberately employs names and naming techniques to define character functions and roles, thereby reinforcing the text’s underlying framework of the cosmic conflict between God and Satan. God, as the Seated One on the throne, is the principal protagonist around whom the cosmic conflict revolves. He fights and wins through the lamb’s sacrifice and victory. Satan, on the other hand, is the prime antagonist, whose ultimate defeat is prefigured in his names and their revelation.