What is the name of God in the Bible?
The Bible reveals God's nature and character through several names, each offering unique insights into who He is and how He relates to humanity. While no single name fully encapsulates the infinite Creator, the various names illuminate different facets of His power, presence, and promises. Understanding these names helps us to draw closer to God, recognizing His attributes and trustworthiness in all circumstances. From the majestic 'Elohim' to the intimate 'Yahweh,' these names invite us into deeper knowledge and worship of the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
God's names in the Bible reveal His multifaceted character, attributes, and relationship with humanity, inviting us to deeper understanding and worship.
The Most Personal Name: Yahweh (YHWH)
The most distinctive and personal name for God in the Old Testament is YHWH, often translated as "LORD" in English Bibles (written in small caps). This name is connected to the Hebrew verb "to be" and is famously revealed to Moses at the burning bush in Exodus 3:13-15. When Moses asks God's name, God replies, "I AM WHO I AM." He then tells Moses to tell the Israelites, "I AM has sent me to you." This name emphasizes God's self-existence, His eternal nature, and His covenant faithfulness. It signifies that God is always present, actively involved, and unchanging in His promises. Because of its sacredness, Jewish tradition often avoids pronouncing YHWH directly, using 'Adonai' (Lord) in its place. The exact pronunciation of YHWH has been lost over time, leading to terms like "Jehovah" (a later Latinized vocalization) and "Yahweh" (a scholarly reconstruction).
The Creator God: Elohim
"Elohim" is one of the most common names for God in the Old Testament, appearing over 2,500 times. It is a plural noun, yet it is almost always used with singular verbs when referring to the one God of Israel, highlighting His majestic plurality or fullness of power. Genesis 1:1 begins, "In the beginning God [Elohim] created the heavens and the earth," establishing Elohim as the mighty Creator and sovereign Ruler over all creation. This name emphasizes God's transcendence, power, and universal authority. While it can sometimes refer to pagan gods or powerful human rulers, its primary use in the Bible is for the one true God, signifying His supreme deity.
The Almighty God: El Shaddai
"El Shaddai," often translated as "God Almighty," is another significant name of God, first appearing in Genesis 17:1-2 when God appears to Abram, saying, "I am God Almighty; walk before me, and be blameless, that I may make my covenant between me and you, and may multiply you greatly." This name emphasizes God's absolute power, sufficiency, and ability to fulfill His promises, even when human circumstances seem impossible. It assures believers of God's limitless strength and His provision for His people. The exact etymology of "Shaddai" is debated, with some linking it to mountains (suggesting strength) and others to breasts (suggesting nourishment and sufficiency).
Lord of All: Adonai
"Adonai," meaning "My Lord" or "Master," is a title of respect and authority. It is frequently used by individuals addressing God, acknowledging His sovereignty and their submission to Him. As noted, it is often substituted for YHWH in Jewish tradition. When you see "Lord" (with only the first letter capitalized) in English Bibles in the Old Testament, it often translates Adonai. This name highlights God's role as the supreme authority and owner, to whom all creation owes allegiance and service.
New Testament Names and Titles
In the New Testament, while some Old Testament names are echoed (e.g., "God Almighty" in Revelation 1:8), the focus shifts to God as "Father" (Matthew 6:9, Romans 8:15) and the revelation of God through Jesus Christ. Jesus consistently refers to God as "Father," emphasizing an intimate and relational aspect of God's character. Jesus himself is identified as "Lord" (Kyrios in Greek), placing Him in a position of divine authority, and "God" (John 1:1, John 20:28), affirming His deity. The Holy Spirit is also presented as fully divine, sharing the divine name and nature (Matthew 28:19). The Christian understanding of God is Trinitarian – one God existing in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Bible verses about god's name
"And Moses said unto God, Behold, when I come unto the children of Israel, and shall say unto them, The God of your fathers hath sent me unto you; and they shall say to me, What is his name? What shall I say unto them? And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you. And God said moreover unto Moses, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, Jehovah, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath sent me unto you: this is my name for ever, and this is my memorial unto all generations."
"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth."
"And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, Jehovah appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am God Almighty; walk before me, and be thou perfect. And I will make my covenant between me and thee, and will multiply thee exceedingly."
"After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name."
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."
"Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God."
"Go ye therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit:"
"Jehovah is my shepherd; I shall not want."
"Can any hide himself in secret places so that I shall not see him? saith Jehovah. Do not I fill heaven and earth? saith Jehovah."
Frequently asked
What is the significance of 'I AM WHO I AM'?
The phrase "I AM WHO I AM" (Exodus 3:14) is God's profound self-declaration to Moses. It signifies His eternal, self-existent nature – He does not depend on anything for His being. It also conveys His immutable presence and faithfulness; He is always present and will always be who He says He is. This name underscores God's sovereignty and His ability to accomplish all His purposes, making Him utterly trustworthy and dependable in all His covenant relationships.
Do Christians and Jews use the same name for God?
Christians and Jews share many of the same names for God found in the Old Testament, such as Elohim, El Shaddai, and Adonai. While YHWH is revered by both, Jewish tradition typically avoids its direct pronunciation, often using 'Adonai' or 'HaShem' ('The Name'). Christians, while also respecting the sacredness of God's names, generally use 'Lord' (representing YHWH) and often emphasize 'Father' as revealed by Jesus, and recognize Jesus as 'Lord' and 'God' Himself. So, while there is significant overlap, there are also distinct emphases and practices.
Are there other descriptive names for God in the Bible?
Yes, the Bible uses numerous descriptive names and titles that highlight God's character and actions. Some examples include 'Lord of Hosts' (YHWH Sabaoth), referring to His leadership over heavenly armies; 'The Most High God' (El Elyon), emphasizing His supreme sovereignty; 'Everlasting God' (El Olam), pointing to His eternal nature; 'The Holy One of Israel,' underscoring His holiness; and 'Shepherd' (Psalm 23:1), illustrating His care and guidance. These names collectively paint a richer picture of God's multifaceted nature and His relationship with His creation.
Why is it important to know God's names?
Knowing God's names is crucial because each name reveals a distinct aspect of His character, power, and relationship with humanity. Understanding these names deepens our knowledge of who God is, strengthens our faith in His attributes, and enriches our worship. For example, knowing God as 'El Shaddai' reminds us of His omnipotence and provision, while 'Yahweh' speaks to His covenant faithfulness. Reflecting on His names helps us to trust Him more fully in different life circumstances and to pray in accordance with His revealed nature.
Does God have different names in the New Testament?
In the New Testament, while the essence of God's Old Testament names remains, there's a greater emphasis on new relational names and titles, particularly 'Father' for God, as taught by Jesus (Matthew 6:9). Jesus Himself is called 'Lord' (Kyrios) and 'God' (Theos), signifying His divinity (John 20:28). The Holy Spirit is also identified as divine, completing the Trinitarian understanding of God (Matthew 28:19). So, rather than entirely new names, the New Testament expands our understanding of God through the persons of the Trinity and intimate relational titles.