The answer is: Abraham

Gen 17:5

Did you know that the name Abraham actually predates him as a person? He was originally named Abram, which simply means "exalted father." However, God added the "ham," which means "multitude" or "many," transforming his identity into that of the "father of a great multitude" (Genesis 17:5). This change was significant, marking not just a personal transformation but establishing a covenant that would set the course for an entire lineage.

Abraham's story is filled with themes of faith and promise. Did you know that he is recognized as a seminal figure not only in Judaism but also in Christianity and Islam? Both Christians and Muslims revere him as a paragon of faith, each invoking his name throughout their respective traditions. The remarkable thing is that Abraham's journey isn't just about his responsibilities as a patriarch but also about his relationship with God. His conversations with the Divine were filled with negotiations, pointers towards his deep commitment.

Interesting fact: In ancient times, a name was significantly tied to one’s character or destiny. When God imparts a new name to Abraham, it illustrated not just a quantity of descendants but a purpose. The promises made to him stretched across generations. You can see early echoes of this grander narrative when you examine Isaac and Joseph, two of Abraham's descendants, who played monumental roles in the continuation of his lineage. Every time you hear the name Abraham invoked, it harks back to this incredible pact with God—one that’s got reverberations across centuries!