Names Of God In The Hebrew Scripture

Introduction

There are many different names in both the Old and New Testament rendered to God. Recognizing these distinctions helps us read Scripture with greater sensitivity to its rhetorical and theological layers. For example, when Hosea says “they have forgotten their Maker” (Hos 8:14), the emphasis is on Elohim as Creator, contrasting with their rejection of YHWH as covenant Lord.

Each name is not just a label but a theological statement: Elohim → power and majesty. YHWH → covenant faithfulness. Adonai → authority. Father/Abba → intimacy and relationship. Immanuel → presence with His people.

Common Names and Titles in Hebrew Scripture

  • Elohim – “God” (Gen 1:1). Emphasizes His power as Creator and supreme deity.

  • YHWH – "LORD". God's personal covenant name revealed to Moses (Exod 3:14). “I AM WHO I AM”.  Stresses His eternal, self-existent nature.  Used to stress God’s personal relationship with Israel.

  • YHWH Elohim - "LORD God" - Combines YHWH (LORD) with Elohim (God), emphasizing both His covenant identity and His role as Creator and supreme deity

  • Adonai – "Lord", “Master” or “Sovereign.” Highlights authority and rulership over His people. Jewish tradition avoided pronouncing YHWH, substituting Adonai.

  • El Shaddai – “God Almighty” (Gen 17:1). Emphasizes His all-sufficiency and power.

  • El Elyon – “God Most High” (Gen 14:18). Stresses His supremacy over all.

  • El Roi – “God who sees” (Gen 16:13). Revealed by Hagar, emphasizing His care and watchfulness.

  • YHWH Sabaoth – “LORD of Hosts” (Isa 6:3). Depicts Him as commander of heavenly armies.

  • YHWH Jireh – “The LORD will provide” (Gen 22:14). Abraham’s declaration after God provided a ram.

  • YHWH Rapha – “The LORD who heals” (Exod 15:26). Emphasizes His restorative power.

  • YHWH Shalom – “The LORD is peace” (Judg 6:24). Gideon’s altar name after God’s reassurance.

  • YHWH Tsidkenu – “The LORD our righteousness” (Jer 23:6). Messianic promise of God’s righteousness.

  • YHWH Shammah – “The LORD is there” (Ezek 48:35). Name of the restored Jerusalem, emphasizing His presence.


New Testament Titles

  • Theos – Greek for “God.”

  • Kyrios (Lord) – Used for both God and Christ, emphasizing authority.

  • Pater (Father) – Highlights intimacy and relationship (Matt 6:9).

  • Abba – Aramaic for “Father” (Rom 8:15). Expresses closeness and trust.

  • Logos – “Word” (John 1:1). Refers to Christ as divine self-expression.

  • Immanuel – “God with us” (Matt 1:23). Fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy.

  • Pantokrator – “Almighty” (Rev 1:8). Stresses His universal sovereignty.



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