NAMES OF GOD

That The Hebrew Children Called Him

In the Hebrew tradition, God is known by several names that reveal the multifaceted nature of the Divine. Each name is not just a label, but a window into God's character, authority, and actions, offering profound insights into how He interacts with the world and His people. These names are not interchangeable; they highlight different aspects of His eternal presence and how He is experienced by humanity.

The name Elohim is one of the first names of God revealed in the Hebrew Bible, appearing in the opening verse of Genesis. It is often translated as "God," but it carries with it the idea of strength, power, and majesty. The plural form of the word, though grammatically singular when referring to the God of Israel, hints at the complexity of God's nature. It suggests His omnipotence and His sovereign rule over all creation, emphasizing His role as the Creator of the heavens and the earth. Elohim speaks to God's transcendence and supremacy, and His ability to shape all that exists.

Another important name is YHWH, sometimes rendered as Yahweh or Jehovah. This name is considered by many to be the most sacred and personal name of God, revealing His eternal and self-existent nature. It comes from the Hebrew verb "to be," and thus signifies "I Am" or "I Am Who I Am." This name is first revealed to Moses in the burning bush, where God identifies Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It speaks of God's unchanging nature, His independence from time and space, and His eternal presence. Through YHWH, God reveals His covenantal relationship with His people, underscoring that He is not distant or impersonal, but is present and actively involved in the lives of those who call upon Him.

The name Adonai is another title for God that means "Lord" or "Master." It expresses the sovereignty of God and His rightful authority over all creation. Unlike Elohim, which emphasizes God's power as the Creator, Adonai highlights His rule and governance over the world and His people. It conveys a sense of intimate authority, showing that God is both supreme and accessible, guiding His people with wisdom and love. Adonai is often used in prayer and worship, acknowledging God's lordship and the believer's submission to His will.

Throughout the Hebrew Scriptures, God's names serve to deepen the understanding of who He is. These names are not simply for identification; they are vehicles for revelation, showing how God relates to the world and how He desires to be known. Through them, believers are invited into a deeper relationship with the Divine, seeking to understand not only what God does, but who He is at His very essence. Each name broadens the scope of human understanding of God, highlighting His infinite qualities and His personal involvement in the lives of those who follow Him.

The name El Shaddai holds deep significance in the Hebrew scriptures. Translated as "God Almighty" or "the All-Sufficient One," this name conveys God's ultimate power and His ability to meet every need. When God reveals Himself as El Shaddai to Abraham, it emphasizes not just His strength, but also His nurturing care and provision. It speaks of a God who is not only mighty but also intimately concerned with the well-being of His creation, offering both protection and sustenance. In a world full of uncertainty, the name El Shaddai offers comfort, assuring believers that God is both powerful and abundantly capable of fulfilling every need, whether material, emotional, or spiritual.

The name El Elyon, meaning "The Most High God," emphasizes God's supremacy above all other gods and powers. This name calls attention to God's sovereign reign over the heavens and the earth. El Elyon is a declaration that there is no one above God, no force greater than Him, and no power that can challenge His authority. It serves as a reminder to believers that, regardless of earthly circumstances, God reigns supreme, and His will is the ultimate authority. El Elyon invites believers to place their trust in God's perfect and supreme governance, reminding them that, in the grand scheme of existence, God's sovereignty stands unchallenged.

The name Jehovah-Jireh means "The Lord Will Provide." This name is first revealed to Abraham when God provides a ram as a substitute offering in place of his son Isaac. The name Jehovah-Jireh underscores God's role as the provider of all things, not only in terms of material needs but in matters of spiritual provision as well. It affirms that God knows the needs of His people and is faithful to provide for them, even in the most desperate of circumstances. Whether it is physical sustenance, guidance, or comfort in times of distress, Jehovah-Jireh assures believers that God is always present to provide exactly what is needed at the right moment.

In a similar vein, the name Jehovah-Rapha means "The Lord Who Heals." This name speaks to God's power to heal and restore, both physically and spiritually. It was revealed to the Israelites in the wilderness after they had faced various trials, including illness. Jehovah-Rapha highlights God's compassion and His willingness to restore His people to health and wholeness. This name serves as a reminder to all believers that God’s healing touch is always available, whether they face physical ailments or emotional scars. God's healing extends beyond mere bodily recovery; it also encompasses emotional, mental, and spiritual renewal, offering wholeness to those who seek Him.

The name Jehovah-Nissi, meaning "The Lord Is My Banner," reflects God’s role as a protector and a source of strength in times of battle. This name is first used by Moses after the Israelites’ victory over the Amalekites. The banner, in ancient times, was a symbol of the strength and authority of a leader, and Jehovah-Nissi conveys the idea that God Himself is the rallying point and the source of victory. When believers invoke this name, they are acknowledging that their ultimate security and triumph come not from their own strength or abilities but from the power and presence of God. It is a name that assures believers that God fights for them and provides the victory, no matter the struggles they may face.

The name Jehovah-Shalom, meaning "The Lord Is Peace," speaks to God’s nature as the giver of peace. In a world filled with chaos and turmoil, Jehovah-Shalom offers a refuge of calm, peace, and restoration. This name was revealed to Gideon, who, in the midst of conflict, experienced a divine encounter that brought him peace. Jehovah-Shalom reassures believers that God’s peace is not contingent on external circumstances but is a gift that transcends understanding. It is the peace that guards the heart and mind, offering serenity even in the midst of life's greatest challenges. By invoking this name, believers are reminded that God is the ultimate source of peace and that His peace is both a protection and a promise.

The name Jehovah-Tsidkenu, meaning "The Lord Our Righteousness," is one that emphasizes God’s role as the source of righteousness. This name is particularly significant in the context of salvation, as it speaks of God's provision of righteousness to His people, which they cannot achieve on their own. It is through God’s intervention that believers are made righteous, and Jehovah-Tsidkenu serves as a reminder that it is by His grace and mercy alone that one can stand before Him. The righteousness attributed to believers is not their own but is imputed to them by God's perfect justice and grace. This name calls believers to trust in God's work of salvation and to embrace the righteousness He offers, knowing it is a gift that is freely given, not earned.

The name El Roi, meaning "The God Who Sees," reflects God’s awareness and attention to every detail of His creation. This name was first used by Hagar, the servant of Abraham, when she fled into the wilderness and encountered God in her distress. In that moment, Hagar realized that God had seen her and her plight, and she named Him El Roi in acknowledgment of God's compassionate gaze. This name assures believers that God is not distant or indifferent to their struggles, but that He sees them in their pain, in their joy, and in every moment of their lives. It is a name that speaks to the intimate and personal relationship God desires to have with His people, one where they can trust that He sees and understands their needs and their hearts.

These names, like all the names of God, provide a rich tapestry of divine revelation, inviting believers to draw closer to the Creator and to understand Him in deeper ways. They are not merely words, but pathways to knowing God's character, His nature, and His unchanging love for His people. Each name reveals a different facet of God's vast and eternal being, offering a window into how He operates in the world and how He desires to relate to humanity. As believers meditate on these names, they are drawn into a deeper understanding of who God is, and their trust and reverence for Him grow as they encounter His divine attributes.

The name El Olam, meaning "The Everlasting God," draws attention to God's eternal nature, transcending both time and space. It emphasizes that God is not bound by the limits of time; He exists outside of it, eternal and unchanging. This name offers a profound comfort to believers, reminding them that while the world around them may change, decay, or come to an end, God remains steadfast and unmovable. El Olam invites the faithful to place their trust in the eternal promises of God, knowing that His word endures forever. It serves as a reminder that human life, with its fleeting nature, is part of a larger and eternal purpose orchestrated by a timeless Creator.

The name Yahweh Sabaoth, meaning "The Lord of Hosts," refers to God's command over the heavenly armies. The word "hosts" refers to the celestial beings, the angelic forces that serve God and carry out His will. This name emphasizes God’s sovereignty not just over the earth, but over the heavens and the spiritual realms as well. It calls to mind God's supreme authority and His ability to command legions of angels at will. Yahweh Sabaoth invites believers to understand that God is not only sovereign over the world but also wields power over every spiritual force, whether good or evil. It provides assurance to the faithful that no power in the universe can stand against the Lord of Hosts and that He is able to protect and defend His people from any enemy, seen or unseen.

The name Jehovah-M'Kaddesh, meaning "The Lord Who Sanctifies," highlights God's role in making His people holy. This name reveals that holiness is not something believers can achieve on their own, but rather it is a gift from God. He is the one who sets His people apart for His purposes and makes them holy through His presence. Jehovah-M'Kaddesh invites believers to recognize that holiness is not a human achievement but a divine transformation. Through the work of God, His people are set apart from the world, called to live lives that reflect His character. This sanctification is an ongoing process, a daily walk with God that draws His people closer to His image and likeness.

The name El Gibbor, meaning "Mighty God," reflects God's strength and might. It is a title that underscores God’s power to deliver, protect, and defeat the forces of evil. In the context of the Hebrew scriptures, El Gibbor is a reminder that God’s might is not only for creation but also for the salvation of His people. The name is often associated with the Messiah, the one who would come to redeem Israel and the world. This mighty God is not distant or unapproachable; rather, He is involved in the struggles of His people, fighting on their behalf and bringing about justice and redemption. The name El Gibbor speaks to the God who is not only mighty in power but also mighty in His love, mercy, and ability to act on behalf of those who trust in Him.

The name Avinu Malkeinu, meaning "Our Father, Our King," reflects the dual nature of God as both a loving parent and a sovereign ruler. This name speaks to the relationship that God desires with His people—one of both intimacy and reverence. As Avinu, God is the caring Father who nurtures and guides His children, providing for their needs and offering them unconditional love. As Malkeinu, He is the King who rules with authority and justice, maintaining order and righteousness in His kingdom. Together, these aspects of God’s character create a balance between His tender love and His supreme rule, reminding believers of the deep, personal relationship they can have with God while acknowledging His ultimate authority.

The name Tsur, meaning "Rock," describes God as a firm foundation and an unshakable refuge. In times of trouble and distress, the image of God as a rock offers stability and security. This name speaks to God's dependability—He is a refuge in the storm, a place of safety when the world around seems unstable. The imagery of a rock is used to describe God's strength, His permanence, and His ability to withstand the trials of life. To call God Tsur is to recognize that He is the solid, unmovable source of strength, and His faithfulness is a foundation upon which believers can stand firm, regardless of life’s challenges.

The name Shekhinah, often used to describe the presence of God, conveys the idea of God's dwelling among His people. Unlike other names of God that emphasize His transcendence and majesty, Shekhinah highlights His immanence—His nearness and His desire to be present with His creation. The Shekhinah is most often associated with the divine cloud or glory that filled the tabernacle and the temple, symbolizing God's presence among His people. This name invites believers into a relationship with a God who is not distant, but who desires to be known and felt in the daily lives of His people. The Shekhinah calls to mind the comfort and intimacy that comes from knowing that God is not far off, but is ever near, walking alongside His people.

Throughout the Hebrew scriptures, these names serve as a roadmap to understanding the profound and multifaceted nature of God. Each name unveils a different aspect of His character, allowing believers to experience Him in unique and personal ways. The names of God are not simply titles or labels; they are invitations to know Him more deeply, to encounter His divine nature, and to grow in a relationship with the Creator of all things. As believers meditate on these names, they are drawn into a deeper understanding of who God is, and their lives are transformed by the power of His presence.

As one explores the names of God, it becomes clear that He is not a one-dimensional being, but rather an infinite, eternal presence that cannot be fully comprehended. Yet, through these names, believers are given glimpses into the vastness of His nature—His love, power, wisdom, justice, mercy, and holiness. The names of God offer a way to draw closer to Him, to worship Him in spirit and truth, and to find comfort and strength in His many roles. Each name is a key that opens the door to a deeper understanding and a closer walk with the Divine, inviting believers to experience the fullness of God's love and majesty in their lives.

The name Kadosh, meaning "Holy," is one of the most frequently used descriptors of God in the Hebrew Scriptures. It emphasizes God’s purity, His complete separation from sin, and His absolute moral perfection. The holiness of God is not merely an aspect of His nature but the defining characteristic that undergirds everything else about Him. To be Kadosh is to be transcendent, utterly beyond the reach of human imperfection. God’s holiness calls His people to a life of separation from sin, a life of dedication to His will and righteousness. Throughout the Scriptures, the holiness of God serves as a constant reminder to believers that they are called to reflect His purity in their own lives. In a world marred by sin and corruption, the name Kadosh is a beacon, calling God’s people to holiness and a deeper commitment to Him.

Another name that carries profound meaning is Yahweh-Raah, meaning "The Lord Is My Shepherd." This name is intimately connected with the pastoral image of a shepherd tending to his flock, guiding them to green pastures and still waters, and protecting them from danger. In the ancient Near Eastern world, the relationship between shepherd and sheep was one of the most common metaphors used to describe the bond between a leader and their people. When God is referred to as Yahweh-Raah, it speaks of His deep care, guidance, and protection over His people. In Psalm 23, this name is famously invoked, where David reflects on God’s tender care and constant presence. Yahweh-Raah offers comfort to believers, reminding them that they are not alone, and that God is their guide, provider, and protector in every circumstance. It emphasizes that God's leadership is filled with compassion and understanding, and that He is always present to lead His people through life's challenges.

The name Eloah, used primarily in the poetic sections of the Hebrew Bible, is another way to refer to God. While it is often translated as "God" in English, it carries with it a sense of awe and reverence. The form of the word implies a sense of divine majesty and power, yet it is also associated with the intimacy of God’s care for His creation. Eloah is a reminder of God’s sovereignty and His absolute dominion over all things, yet it does not diminish His personal relationship with His people. This name calls believers to worship God not only for His mighty acts of creation but for the personal care He gives to each individual. Eloah evokes a sense of both awe and trust—His power to create and sustain the universe is matched by His ability to be intimately involved in the lives of those who follow Him.

In a similar way, El Elyon, meaning "God Most High," speaks to God’s supreme position over all other powers and deities. This name is a declaration that God alone is worthy of the title of supreme ruler, and there is none who can compare to Him in strength or authority. El Elyon is used in contexts where God’s transcendence and supreme reign are particularly emphasized. It is a reminder to believers that while they may face earthly rulers and authorities, they serve a God whose rule is above all others. His reign is eternal, His dominion stretches from the heavens to the earth, and nothing in creation escapes His control. The name El Elyon calls believers to trust in God's ultimate authority, to submit to His will, and to recognize that His rule is always for their good, even when circumstances may suggest otherwise.

The name El Emunah, meaning "The Faithful God," highlights the unshakable reliability of God. To call God El Emunah is to acknowledge that He is always true to His promises, that His word can be trusted, and that His faithfulness never wavers. Throughout the scriptures, the faithfulness of God is a central theme, especially in His covenantal relationship with His people. Even when His people are unfaithful, God remains true to His promises. This name offers assurance to believers that they can trust God fully, knowing that He will never fail them. Whether in moments of trial or triumph, El Emunah reminds believers that God is dependable, and His faithfulness is a foundation they can stand upon.

The name Jehovah-Sabaoth, meaning "The Lord of Hosts," is a name that conveys God's supreme power and authority over the heavenly armies. The title "hosts" refers to the angelic beings who serve God, and it reminds believers that God's command extends beyond the earthly realm to the entire spiritual universe. Jehovah-Sabaoth speaks to the absolute sovereignty of God over all creation, including the unseen spiritual forces that shape the course of human history. It also serves as a reminder that God is ever-present in His vigilance over His people, working through the hosts of heaven to bring about His purposes. The name is often used in times of conflict or challenge, as a reminder that the God who controls the heavenly hosts is able to bring victory and deliverance to those who call upon Him.

The name El Olam, meaning "The Everlasting God," speaks to the eternal nature of God. In a world where everything is temporary, where the seasons change and human lives are finite, El Olam is a reminder that God exists beyond time. His reign is unending, His purpose unchanging. The name El Olam invites believers to look beyond the transience of this world and to focus on the eternal nature of God. It assures them that God’s promises are not subject to the limitations of time and that His purposes will stand forever. For those who trust in the eternal God, there is a sure hope that transcends the troubles and uncertainties of this life, for the One they serve is the Creator of time itself, and He will see all things through to their completion.

As one contemplates these names, it becomes clear that they are not merely a list of titles, but rather a multifaceted revelation of God's nature. Each name offers a different perspective on who God is and how He interacts with the world. From Elohim, the Creator, to El Shaddai, the Almighty, and Jehovah-Jireh, the Provider, each name reveals something essential about God's character and His relationship with His creation. These names are not static; they are alive with meaning, inviting believers into deeper communion with the Divine. They reflect the richness of God's presence, His acts of mercy, His sovereign authority, His eternal nature, and His deep love for His people.

The name Jehovah-Mekaddishkem, meaning "The Lord Who Sanctifies You," speaks to God's role in setting His people apart for holiness. It is a reminder that sanctification is not an individual effort, but rather the ongoing work of God in the lives of His people. This name reflects God's transformative power, shaping His people to reflect His own holiness. The process of sanctification involves separating believers from the ways of the world and drawing them closer to God's will. Jehovah-Mekaddishkem calls God's people to pursue holiness, knowing that their transformation is not by their strength but by the grace and power of God. The name assures believers that God is actively working within them, helping them to grow in righteousness and to live in a way that is pleasing to Him. It emphasizes that sanctification is both a moment of divine intervention and a continual process of becoming more like Christ.

In the same vein, El Olam, meaning "The Everlasting God," speaks to the eternal nature of God. This name assures believers that God’s reign and purposes are unchanging, not bound by the fleeting moments of time or the circumstances of the world. In contrast to human life, which is brief and filled with uncertainty, El Olam represents God's infinite, eternal existence. It calls believers to consider the eternal perspective that God offers, a perspective that transcends earthly limitations and offers hope that endures. In a world of instability, El Olam reminds us that God is constant, that He was, is, and will always be the same. His promises are not bound by time, and His covenant with His people is everlasting.

The name El Elyon, meaning "God Most High," speaks to God’s absolute supremacy over all other powers and deities. This name emphasizes the fact that God is exalted above everything and everyone. There is none higher, none greater, and none more worthy of worship. El Elyon calls believers to recognize God’s supreme authority in all matters of life. It serves as a reminder that no earthly king, ruler, or power can compare to the sovereign reign of God. The name carries with it a sense of awe and reverence, calling believers to acknowledge God as the ultimate ruler of the universe. El Elyon also encourages believers to trust in God’s sovereignty, knowing that no matter what happens in the world, He remains the highest and most powerful force.

The name El De'ot, meaning "God of Knowledge," speaks to God’s infinite wisdom and understanding. It reminds believers that God is the source of all true knowledge and that human wisdom pales in comparison to His. El De'ot calls believers to seek God for insight and understanding, knowing that He holds all wisdom in His hands. This name is particularly significant in a world that often prides itself on human intellect and reason. It serves as a humble reminder that ultimate knowledge is not found in human accomplishment, but in God alone. Those who seek wisdom and guidance are called to look to God, who has perfect knowledge of all things. This name also assures believers that God is not distant or detached from their lives but is intimately acquainted with every detail and circumstance, offering wisdom for every decision and challenge.

Another name that highlights God’s deep care and involvement with His people is Yahweh-Shalom, meaning "The Lord Is Peace." This name is often invoked to describe the peace that God provides, a peace that transcends understanding. In a world full of chaos, conflict, and unrest, Yahweh-Shalom offers believers a deep and abiding peace, rooted in God’s presence. This peace is not simply the absence of conflict, but a state of wholeness, well-being, and harmony. It is the peace that comes from knowing that God is in control, that He is present with His people, and that His plans are good. Yahweh-Shalom reminds believers that true peace can only be found in God, and it is available to those who trust in His goodness and sovereignty.

The name Jehovah-Nissi, meaning "The Lord Is My Banner," is a declaration of God’s protection and leadership. In ancient times, a banner would be raised in battle as a symbol of unity, strength, and victory. By calling God Jehovah-Nissi, believers acknowledge that He is the source of their victory. It is a reminder that God goes before His people in all challenges and battles, leading them to triumph. This name encourages the faithful to stand strong in the face of adversity, knowing that the battle belongs to the Lord. Jehovah-Nissi also serves as a reminder that believers are part of God’s army, and under His banner, they are called to live with courage and faith.

The name Yahweh-Raah, meaning "The Lord Is My Shepherd," speaks to God’s tender care and guidance. This name, especially found in the Psalms, portrays God as the loving shepherd who guides His people, provides for their needs, and protects them from harm. Just as a shepherd leads his sheep to pasture and keeps them safe from predators, God leads His people along the path of righteousness and provides them with what they need for life. The name Yahweh-Raah is a comforting reminder that believers are never alone; God is actively involved in their lives, guiding them through life’s difficulties, and offering His protection and care. It is a name that invites trust, knowing that the Shepherd is always present, watching over His flock.

Finally, Yahweh-Sabaoth, meaning "The Lord of Hosts," speaks to God’s supreme authority over the armies of heaven and the earth. This name is a declaration of God’s power and control over all of creation, both seen and unseen. It emphasizes that God is the ruler not only of the physical world but also of the spiritual realms. Yahweh-Sabaoth reminds believers that God is not only present in the world but also actively engaged in the affairs of His people. He commands the heavenly hosts, who serve as His agents to carry out His will. The name calls believers to place their trust in God’s ultimate authority, knowing that no power in the universe can stand against Him.

There are many many more names that shows the character of our Creator, but I cannot go into that now. Over time, I might bring out more.

Blessings to you all, in Christ.