Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the "Name of God" in the Bible is rich and multifaceted, reflecting His character, attributes, and relationship with His creation. Throughout Scripture, various names and titles are ascribed to God, each revealing different aspects of His divine nature and His covenantal relationship with humanity.YHWH (Yahweh or Jehovah): The most sacred and distinctive name of God in the Old Testament is YHWH, often rendered as Yahweh or Jehovah. This name is revealed to Moses at the burning bush in Exodus 3:14, where God declares, "I AM WHO I AM." This name signifies God's self-existence, eternal nature, and unchanging character. In the Berean Standard Bible, Exodus 3:15 states, "This is My name forever, and this is how I am to be remembered in every generation." Elohim: This is a plural form used in the Hebrew Bible to denote the majesty and power of God. It is the first name used for God in the Bible, appearing in Genesis 1:1: "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." Elohim emphasizes God's sovereignty and creative power. Adonai: Meaning "Lord" or "Master," Adonai is used to express God's authority and lordship. It is often used in contexts where God's sovereign rule is highlighted, as seen in Psalm 8:1: "O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth!" El Shaddai: Translated as "God Almighty," this name underscores God's ultimate power and sufficiency. It is first used in Genesis 17:1 when God appears to Abram and says, "I am God Almighty; walk before Me and be blameless." Jehovah Jireh: Meaning "The LORD Will Provide," this name is revealed in the context of God's provision for Abraham on Mount Moriah. In Genesis 22:14, Abraham names the place Jehovah Jireh, acknowledging God's provision of a ram in place of Isaac. Jehovah Rapha: Translated as "The LORD Who Heals," this name is found in Exodus 15:26, where God promises healing to the Israelites: "For I am the LORD who heals you." Jehovah Nissi: Meaning "The LORD Is My Banner," this name is given by Moses in Exodus 17:15 after the victory over the Amalekites, signifying God's protection and leadership in battle. Jehovah Shalom: Translated as "The LORD Is Peace," this name is used by Gideon in Judges 6:24 after encountering the Angel of the LORD, reflecting God's peace amidst turmoil. Jehovah Tsidkenu: Meaning "The LORD Our Righteousness," this name is found in Jeremiah 23:6, prophesying the coming of a righteous Branch from David's line who will reign as king. Jehovah Sabaoth: Often rendered as "The LORD of Hosts," this name emphasizes God's command over the heavenly armies and His sovereign power over all creation. It is frequently used in the prophetic books, such as Isaiah 6:3: "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth." Abba: In the New Testament, Jesus introduces a more intimate name for God, "Abba," meaning "Father." This term reflects the personal and relational aspect of God as a loving Father. In Romans 8:15, believers are encouraged to cry out, "Abba, Father," signifying their adoption into God's family. The names of God in the Bible are not merely titles but are deeply connected to His actions and promises. They reveal His nature, His covenantal faithfulness, and His desire for a relationship with His people. Each name invites believers to know God more fully and to trust in His character and promises. |