Topical Encyclopedia The concept of "His Name" in the Bible refers to the various names and titles attributed to God, each revealing different aspects of His character, nature, and relationship with humanity. In the Scriptures, names hold significant meaning and are often reflective of one's identity and purpose. The names of God are no exception, providing insight into His divine attributes and His covenantal relationship with His people.Yahweh (YHWH): One of the most significant names for God in the Old Testament is Yahweh, often represented as YHWH. This name is considered the personal name of God, revealed to Moses at the burning bush. In Exodus 3:14, God declares, "I AM WHO I AM," signifying His eternal, self-existent nature. The name Yahweh is often translated as "LORD" in many English Bibles, including the Berean Standard Bible. Elohim: This name is used frequently in the Old Testament and is a plural form, though it is often used with singular verbs when referring to the one true God. Elohim emphasizes God's power and might as the Creator of the universe. Genesis 1:1 states, "In the beginning God (Elohim) created the heavens and the earth." Adonai: Meaning "Lord" or "Master," Adonai is a title that reflects God's authority and sovereignty. It is used in contexts where God's lordship over His creation and His people is emphasized. Psalm 8:1 declares, "O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth!" El Shaddai: Translated as "God Almighty," this name highlights God's ultimate power and sufficiency. It is first used in Genesis 17:1 when God appears to Abram and establishes His covenant, saying, "I am God Almighty; walk before Me and be blameless." Jehovah Jireh: Meaning "The LORD Will Provide," this name is revealed in the account of Abraham and Isaac in Genesis 22:14. After God provides a ram as a substitute for Isaac, Abraham names the place Jehovah Jireh, acknowledging God's provision. Jehovah Rapha: Translated as "The LORD Who Heals," this name is found in Exodus 15:26, where God promises healing to the Israelites if they obey His commands: "For I am the LORD who heals you." Jehovah Nissi: Meaning "The LORD Is My Banner," this name is used in Exodus 17:15 after the Israelites' victory over the Amalekites. Moses builds an altar and names it Jehovah Nissi, signifying God's protection and leadership in battle. Jehovah Shalom: Translated as "The LORD Is Peace," this name is found in Judges 6:24. Gideon builds an altar to the LORD and calls it Jehovah Shalom after receiving assurance of peace from God. Jehovah Tsidkenu: Meaning "The LORD Our Righteousness," this name is used in Jeremiah 23:6, prophesying the coming of a righteous Branch from David's line who will reign as king and bring salvation. Jehovah Sabaoth: Often translated as "The LORD of Hosts," this name emphasizes God's command over the heavenly armies and His sovereignty over all earthly powers. It is frequently used in the prophetic books, such as Isaiah 6:3, where the seraphim proclaim, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory!" Jesus (Yeshua): In the New Testament, the name Jesus, derived from the Hebrew Yeshua, means "The LORD Saves." This name encapsulates the mission of Christ as the Savior of the world. Matthew 1:21 states, "She will give birth to a son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins." Immanuel: Meaning "God with Us," this name is prophesied in Isaiah 7:14 and fulfilled in the birth of Jesus, as recorded in Matthew 1:23: "Behold, the virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call Him Immanuel" (which means, "God with us"). The names of God in the Bible are not merely labels but profound revelations of His character and His relationship with humanity. Each name invites believers to know God more deeply and to trust in His promises and attributes. |