שַׁדַּי

The Hebrew name Shaddai, frequently paired with El (which means "God"), forms a compound divine title, El Shaddai. Often translated as "God Almighty," this name emphasizes God's abundant power, sufficiency, and ability to fulfill His promises. It speaks to a divine attribute that offers comfort and assurance to His people, particularly in the context of covenant relationships and blessings. The name suggests God as the one who is fully capable of accomplishing His will, even when circumstances seem impossible from a human perspective.

El Shaddai is prominent in the patriarchal narratives, establishing God's character and relationship with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. In these accounts, God reveals Himself as the one who blesses with fruitfulness, prosperity, and the establishment of a multitude of descendants, even through individuals who were advanced in age or barren. This underscores the idea of God's omnipotence and His ability to provide and sustain life, often in miraculous ways. The name also expresses God's capacity to judge and devastate, as seen in prophetic warnings of destruction from the Almighty.

While "Almighty" is the most common English rendering, some scholars connect Shaddai to the Hebrew word "shad" (breast) or "shaddad" (to be powerful or to destroy). These connections, though debated, further enhance the understanding of Shaddai as the God who nourishes, satisfies, and is overwhelmingly powerful. The name assures believers of God's protective care and His unwavering commitment to His covenant, demonstrating His self-sufficiency and all-sufficiency. The consistent portrayal of El Shaddai throughout the Old Testament reinforces God's unchangeable character as the sovereign and mighty one.