In the theology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the concept of a new name holds profound spiritual significance. This sacred name, given as part of temple ordinances and referenced in scripture, symbolizes an individual’s eternal identity and covenant relationship with God. Furthermore, this new name will serve as a "key word" in the hereafter, essential in fulfilling God’s eternal purposes.

Doctrine & Covenants 130:11 provides insight into this sacred principle. The Lord revealed through the Prophet Joseph Smith: “A white stone is given to each of those who come into the celestial kingdom, whereon is a new name written, which no man knoweth save he that receiveth it.” This passage associates the new name with a white stone—a symbol of purity and divine approval—that will serve as a personal Urim and Thummim for those who inherit celestial glory (see #8 LATTER-DAY SEERSHIP: THE URIM AND THUMMIM).

The new name is more than a symbolic gesture; it reflects the unique and eternal identity of each individual. It signifies the deep and personal relationship between God and His children, cemented through covenantal ordinances. Just as God renamed individuals in the scriptures to signify new covenants or divine missions (e.g., Abram to Abraham and Jacob to Israel), this new name conferred upon the faithful serves as an eternal testament of their exaltation and their place in God’s kingdom.

This name also acts as a key word—a sacred element of communication with God in the celestial realms. Joseph Smith explained that the white stone "will become a Urim and Thummim" for each recipient, enabling them to receive knowledge and revelation pertinent to their eternal progression (Doctrine & Covenants 130:10). This illustrates how the new name functions as part of the divine system by which individuals gain access to the mysteries of God and participate in eternal life, endowed with spiritual light and understanding.

This teaching about receiving a new name and its significance as a key word is unique to Latter-day Saint theology and practices. While other Christian traditions recognize the importance of covenants or spiritual identities, the specific promise of a new name tied to eternal inheritance and celestial exaltation is distinct to the doctrines of the Church. It underscores the personalized and transformative nature of salvation, reflecting God’s intimate involvement in the lives and eternal destinies of His children.

For members of the Church, this doctrine provides hope and purpose, reminding them that their eternal identity is sacred, unique, and bound to God’s plan. The new name is not only a mark of distinction but also a reminder of the covenants made with God and the potential to achieve exaltation. It invites individuals to live worthy of the celestial kingdom, where their divine identity and their ability to access the wisdom of eternity will be fully realized.