YHWH (YAHWEH)

I Am Who I Am

YHWH (often pronounced as Yahweh) is the most sacred and personal name of God in the Hebrew Bible. It is derived from the Hebrew verb “to be” (hayah), meaning “I Am” or “I Am Who I Am” (Exodus 3:14). This name reveals God as the self-existent, eternal, and unchanging Being, emphasizing His independence and sovereignty over all creation.

Elohim

Mighty Creator

"Elohim" is a Hebrew word for God that appears throughout the Bible, especially in the Old Testament. It is a plural form, but when used in reference to the one true God of Israel, it takes a singular meaning. Elohim emphasizes God's majesty, power, and role as the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. The term is first used in Genesis 1:1: "In the beginning, God (Elohim) created the heavens and the earth." Elohim reflects God's transcendence, sovereignty, and omnipotence, showcasing Him as the all-powerful Creator and ruler over all creation. While it can sometimes refer to other gods or spiritual beings (in a more general or plural sense), when applied to the God of Israel, it affirms His ultimate authority and supremacy.

El-Shaddai

God Almighty

El Shaddai is one of the Hebrew names for God, often translated as "God Almighty" or "God of the Mountains." - "El" is a common Semitic word for God, indicating His strength and power. - "Shaddai" is believed to derive from a root meaning "to overpower" or "to destroy," signifying God's overwhelming might. Another possible meaning relates to "shad," meaning "breast," which emphasizes God's nurturing and provision, symbolizing His sufficiency and care. El Shaddai conveys God as both powerful and sufficient, capable of providing for and protecting His people. It is frequently used in the Bible when God reassures His covenant promises, such as in His encounters with the patriarchs (e.g., Genesis 17:1). This name underscores God’s absolute authority and ability to meet the needs of His people.

Shalom

The LORD Is Peace

"Jehovah Shalom" is one of the names of God found in the Bible, specifically in Judges 6:24. It means "The Lord is Peace" or "The Lord is our Peace." This name was revealed to Gideon after an encounter with an angel of the Lord, during a time of great distress and fear in Israel. When Gideon realized he had seen an angel face to face, he feared for his life, but the Lord reassured him, saying, "Peace be with you; do not fear, you shall not die." In response, Gideon built an altar and named it "Jehovah Shalom," signifying God's peace and presence amidst turmoil. The title emphasizes God's nature as a source of peace, not just in the sense of tranquility, but as one who brings wholeness, completeness, and security.

Adonai

Lord

Adonai is a Hebrew term meaning “My Lord” or “Lord” and is often used to refer to God in the Hebrew Bible. It expresses respect, authority, and a personal relationship with God. Adonai is used as a substitute for the divine name YHWH in prayer and scripture reading, particularly in Judaism, where the name of God is treated with great reverence. This title emphasizes God’s lordship, sovereignty, and power, highlighting His role as the master and ruler over all creation and as a guiding authority in the lives of His followers.

Yahweh Rapha

The Lord Who Heals

Rapha is a Hebrew term meaning "to heal" or "to restore." It is most commonly associated with the name Yahweh Rapha, which translates to "The Lord Who Heals." This name emphasizes God's ability to heal both physical ailments and spiritual wounds. In the Bible, the name appears in Exodus 15:26, where God promises to be the healer of His people, highlighting His compassion and power to restore. The concept of Rapha extends beyond physical healing to include emotional and spiritual restoration, underscoring God's comprehensive care for His creation.

El Roi

The God Who Sees

El Roi is a Hebrew name that means “The God Who Sees.” This name emphasizes God's awareness, care, and compassion for His people, highlighting His ability to see their struggles and needs. The term is notably used in Genesis 16:13, where Hagar, the maidservant of Sarah, encounters God in the wilderness after fleeing from her mistreatment. In this moment, she recognizes God’s presence and provision, acknowledging Him as El Roi for seeing her plight. This name reassures believers that God is intimately aware of their circumstances and actively involved in their lives, offering comfort and support.

El Elyon

God Most High

El Elyon is a Hebrew name that means “The Most High God.” This title emphasizes God’s supreme authority, exaltation, and sovereignty over all creation. El Elyon is often used in contexts that highlight God’s majesty and His role as the ultimate ruler and judge. The name appears in various passages of the Hebrew Bible, such as Genesis 14:18-20, where Melchizedek blesses Abram in the name of El Elyon. This title reassures believers of God's greatness and His overarching control over the universe, reinforcing the belief that He is above all other powers and deities.