The concept of God's Holy Name is central to the theology and worship practices found throughout the Bible. It signifies not only the identity of God but also His character, authority, and presence. The reverence for God's name is a recurring theme in both the Old and New Testaments, underscoring its sacredness and the importance of honoring it.

Old Testament References

In the Hebrew Bible, the most sacred name of God is represented by the Tetragrammaton, YHWH (יהוה), often vocalized as "Yahweh" or rendered as "LORD" in many English translations. This name is first revealed to Moses in Exodus 3:14, where God declares, "I AM WHO I AM." This self-revelation emphasizes God's eternal existence and unchanging nature. The Berean Standard Bible translates this passage as, "God said to Moses, 'I AM WHO I AM.' And He said, 'This is what you are to say to the Israelites: I AM has sent me to you.'"

The name YHWH is considered so holy that Jewish tradition avoids pronouncing it, substituting it with "Adonai" (Lord) during readings. The Third Commandment, found in Exodus 20:7, underscores the sanctity of God's name: "You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not leave anyone unpunished who takes His name in vain" . This commandment highlights the importance of using God's name with reverence and respect.

Other names and titles for God in the Old Testament include "Elohim" (God), "El Shaddai" (God Almighty), and "Jehovah Jireh" (The LORD Will Provide), each reflecting different aspects of His nature and relationship with His people.

New Testament References

In the New Testament, the reverence for God's name continues, with Jesus Christ emphasizing the importance of God's name in the Lord's Prayer: "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name" (Matthew 6:9). This prayer reflects the deep respect and sanctity attributed to God's name, urging believers to honor it in their lives.

The name of Jesus itself holds significant power and authority. Philippians 2:9-11 states, "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" . This passage highlights the exaltation of Jesus' name and its central role in Christian worship and confession.

Theological Significance

Theologically, God's name is more than a mere label; it encapsulates His essence and attributes. It is a revelation of His holiness, sovereignty, and covenantal faithfulness. The use of God's name in blessings, oaths, and worship signifies a deep relationship between God and His people. In Numbers 6:24-27, the Aaronic blessing concludes with, "So they shall put My name on the Israelites, and I will bless them" , indicating the protective and benevolent presence of God among His people.

Practical Implications

For believers, the holiness of God's name calls for a life of reverence, worship, and obedience. It challenges Christians to reflect God's character in their actions and speech, ensuring that His name is honored in all aspects of life. The call to bear God's name responsibly is a profound aspect of Christian discipleship, as seen in 1 Peter 4:16: "But if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but glorify God that you bear that name" .

In summary, God's Holy Name is a profound and multifaceted concept within the biblical narrative, representing His divine nature and relationship with humanity. It demands reverence, worship, and a life that reflects His holiness.