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Studying the names of God offers a profound journey into understanding the divine nature and God’s character, that has intrigued theologians, scholars, and believers for centuries. Each name attributed to God holds a unique significance, reflecting diverse aspects of His essence and His relationship with humanity. From “El Shaddai” to “Jehovah Jireh,” these names not only enrich our spiritual vocabulary but also deepen our connection to the sacred texts and traditions that have shaped faith communities across the world.
By exploring these names, we gain fresh insights into the attributes of God, enhancing our spiritual experience and fostering a more intimate relationship with the the Lord and the nature of God.
Studying the names of God give us a glimpse into His character. They teach us more about who He is.
The Bible declares that our Holy God is at work in the world and in the lives of those who believe in Him. His names illustrate that work in us. Because Jesus’ prophecy has not yet been fulfilled most of God’s names are from the Old Testament times.
In today’s fast-paced world, where spirituality often takes a backseat to the demands of daily life, dedicating time to studying the names of God can be a transformative exercise. This practice invites us to pause and reflect on the profound meanings encapsulated within each name, allowing us to discover new dimensions of faith and devotion.
Whether through personal meditation, group study, or theological exploration, delving into the sacred nomenclature serves as a reminder of the divine presence in our lives. As we embark on this enlightening journey, we open ourselves to a richer understanding of God’s multifaceted nature, enhancing our spiritual growth and connection to the divine.
Throughout ancient times, the names of God have held profound significance, each revealing a unique aspect of the divine character and relationship with humanity. For instance, God is referred to as a “strong tower,” symbolizing a place of refuge and safety for those who seek shelter in divine protection. Similarly, the “Good Shepherd” exemplifies God’s nurturing and guiding presence, akin to a shepherd who cares for and leads their flock with compassion and care.
The encounter at the burning bush further highlights the power and mystery of the divine, as God reveals Himself to Moses, offering assurance and a mission that would lead to the liberation of a people. Exploring these names not only enriches one’s spiritual understanding but also provides insight into the timeless ways in which the divine has interacted with humanity.
Celebrated preacher C H Spurgeon, while commenting on Psalm 9:10 says that we should place emphasis on studying the different names of God because:
“Ignorance is worst when it amounts to ignorance of God, and knowledge is best when it exercises itself upon the Name of God. This most excellent knowledge leads to the most excellent grace of faith. O, to learn more of the attributes and character of God. Unbelief, that hooting night bird, cannot live in the light of divine knowledge, it flies before the sun of God’s great and gracious Name. If we read this verse literally, there is, no doubt, a glorious fulness of assurance in the names of God….
By knowing His Name is also meant an experimental acquaintance with the attributes of God, which are every one of them anchors to hold the soul from drifting in seasons of peril. The Lord may hide His face for a season from His people, but He never has utterly, finally, really, or angrily forsaken them that seek Him. Let the poor seekers draw comfort from this fact, and let the finders rejoice yet more exceedingly, for what must be the Lord’s faithfulness to those who find if He is so gracious to those who seek….The names of God inspire trust. JEHOVAH Jireh, Tsidkenu, Rophi, Shammah, Nissi, ELOHIM, SHADDAI, ADONAI, etc….”
Over the past few years I’ve written many posts about the Hebrew names of God and their meanings. In this post, I hope to share more with you about the names of God and why we should study them. As well as how to pray the names of God.
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First, let’s take a look at some of the different names of God.
Studying the Names of God
(Please note that this is, by no means, an exhaustive list. I'll highlight just nine of the Hebrew names of God, but depending on the biblical scholars, there are between twenty and one hundred names of God.)
The Lord Most High. The One in charge.
First found in Genesis 15:2 and is used 434 times in the Bible.
Because the Jewish people have a tradition of not pronouncing nor spelling out the promised proper name of God they often would use Adonai instead of YHWH. Adonai means Lord, Master, or Owner. This name emphasizes that God is in charge of his creation and his people, Lord of lords.
Adonai is the shorter version of His royal title. It expresses His majesty, respect, and authority. In English-translated Bibles, it is normally translated as Lord and often combined with Yahweh to refer to God as Lord God. Adonai describes God as the One who is in charge of all things.
Is God the boss in your life? It's easy to say that God is in control, but often our actions or words do not match up with that statement. God, Adonai, must be our ultimate authority. We (and I'm talking me!) need to let him be in charge of our life - in all things, all hours, all ways.
Some Bible verses featuring Adonai as a name of God: Deuteronomy 10:1, Psalm 16:2, Isaiah 45:22, Romans 14:7-9, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Revelation 5:9-10.
(To learn more about Adonai, the name of God, see this post)
Yahweh means “The Lord” – Yahweh is derived from the Hebrew word for “I AM.
First found in Genesis 2:4 and is used 6519 times in the Bible!
Yahweh is the proper name of God. It is translated as Lord and Master. By Jewish tradition this name is too holy to pronounce or write. Instead of writing it out, then, they simply wrote four letters without any vowels: YHWH. (all capital letters)
I find it fascinating that people of Israel stopped saying the name all together in the third century. They were afraid of breaking the fourth commandment - taking the Lord’s name in vain.
Some Bible verses featuring Yahweh as the name of God: Exodus 3:13-15, Genesis 2:4, Psalm 19:7, Isaiah 42:8, Jeremiah 23:6.
(For more on Yahweh, see this post).
In exploring the names of God, "El Roi" emerges as a profound testament to His omnipresent nature—"the God who Sees me." This name is first revealed in the poignant story of Hagar in the Book of Genesis. Fleeing from the harsh treatment of her mistress, Sarai, Hagar finds herself alone in the wilderness, vulnerable and desolate.
It is in this moment of despair that God appears to her, offering comfort and guidance. Hagar, deeply touched by this divine encounter, acknowledges God's omniscience and care by calling Him El Roi. This name encapsulates the assurance that no matter how isolated or overlooked we may feel, there is a God who sees us, understands our struggles, and remains ever-present in our lives.
El Roi serves as a reminder of God's unwavering attentiveness and compassion, affirming that we are never truly alone.
(alternative spelling: Jehovah Raah)
(I was unable to find how many times Jehovah Rohi or Jehovah Raah appears in the Bible)
The Lord is my shepherd.
Rô'eh from which Raah derived, means "shepherd" in Hebrew. A shepherd is one who feeds or leads his flock to pasture. An extended translation of this word, rea', which means "friend" or "companion." This shows the intimacy that God desires between Himself and His people. When the two words are combined - Jehovah Raah - it can be translated as "The Lord my Friend." Is that not one of the most beautiful and comforting things to hear and know? God is my shepherd, my friend. He cares for me.
Bible verses with Jehovah Rohi: Psalms 23:1, Psalms 80:1, Isaiah 40:10-11, Ezekiel 34:11-12, Psalms 100:3, 1 Peter 2:25.
(For a deeper look at Jehovah Rohi, see this post).
Creator, majestic.
First appears in Genesis 1:1 and is used 2599 times in the Bible.
This is the very first name given to God and is found in the very first verse of the entire Bible. This name denotes that God is the creator and majestic ruler over all. Elohim is actually the plural word and it shows that He is above all other gods.
Some Bible verses using Jehovah Elohim: Genesis 1:1, Psalm 95:1-7, Psalm 146:5-6, Isaiah 40:25-29, Isaiah 54:5, Colossians 1:15-19.
(To learn more about Jehovah Elohim, see this post.)
The Lord Will Provide or the Lord Who Provides
Only occurs once in Genesis 22:14
When Isaac inquired to Abraham where the lamb was for the sacrifice, Abraham responded that the Lord would provide. After God provided the ram for the sacrifice (as He promised and God always delivers on a promise) Abraham named that place on Mount Moriah Jehovah Jireh, meaning The Lord Will Provide.
God always provides for us. Not always in the way or time that we want, but He always does.
Jireh comes from the root word “to see,”. God sees and has always seen. He forsaw our need of redemption and provided for us by giving His son to die on the cross. This name of God, proves that God is willing and able to meet every need of His people.
While this name of God appears in this form, just once, some related verses can be found in: Genesis 22:8, 13-14, Acts 14:17, Romans 8:32, 2 Corinthians 9:8, Philippians 4:19, 1 Timothy 6:17.
(For more on Jehovah Jireh and my own story on how God has provided, see this post).
The Lord Who Heals
This name of God occurs only once in Exodus 15:26
Rapha is translated as "to heal" or make healthful. God is the Great Physician who heals his people. He heals our bodies, but more importantly, He heals and restores our spirits and souls.
God has healed me from colon cancer, but more importantly, He has healed me from my past sin and life without Him.
Some Bible verses related to Jehovah Rapha: Exodus 15:22-26, Deuteronomy 32:39, Psalm 103:1-4, Psalm 147:3, Isaiah 53:4-5, Matthew 8:16-17)
Father - This is the "Distinguished title" of God in the New Testament.
Found in scripture only three times, in the passages of Romans 8:15, Mark 14:36, and Galatians 4:6. Only two speakers use this term to refer to God: Christ Jesus and the apostle Paul. That fact is telling in the relationship that both Jesus and Paul have with God and what both represent in the Christian faith.
A few Bible verses which are related to this name of God include: Matthew 6:9-10, John 10:27-30, John 14:6-11, Romans 8:15-16, 2 Corinthians 6:18, 1 John 3:1-3.
(To learn more about the name of God, Abba, see this post).
For He, Himself is our peace
Occurs only once in Judges 6:24
Shalom means peace or without strife. When life throws you conflict and difficult times, remember that you can find peace in the arms of God.
A few Bible verses related to Jehovah Shalom: Romans 5:1, Judges 6:22-24, Isaiah 9:6, Isaiah 26:3-4, John 14:27, Ephesians 2:14-18, Colossians 1:19-20.
(For more on Jehovah Shalom, see this post).
God is our banner (which represents victory).
Occurs only once in Exodus 17:15
Nissi is translated as flag or banner. God is our banner and victory. He gives us hope and a future, and fights our battles. I love this song Surrounded by Michael W. Smith. In it, we are reminded that it is God Who fights our battles and gives us victory.
Some Bible verses related to Jehovah Nissi: Exodus 17:15-16, Psalm 20:5-8, Psalm 60:4, Song of Solomon 2:4, Isaiah 11:10, 1 Corinthians 15:56-57.
(For more on Jehovah Nissi, see this post).
Praying the Names of God
Studying about and praying over the names of God is a meaningful way to learn more about the attributes of God and how each is reflected in how He cares for you. It will breathe new life into your spiritual walk.
There’s something so personal and powerful about speaking the names of God in your prayers.
Most of us use the same name or names for God when we go before Him, such as “God,” “Father,” “Lord,” or “Heavenly Father. ” However, praying to God using different names appearing in scripture can have a huge impact on how you pray and how God answers your prayers.
Here are some ways to incorporate praying the names of God in your quiet time with the Lord:
- Read through Psalm 23 a few times and write down in your prayer journal all of the ways He promises to care for you.
- When you are praying for healing for someone or something, pray to God using His name, Jehovah Rapha.
- Choose on of the names of God to pray over and focus on each day along with any related scripture. You can find three year’s worth of daily prayers through the names of God on my Bible reading and writing plans
- Journal and pray about about what it means that God is the Creator of the universe. Think about how God created you, knows everything about you, and what His plans are for you.
- When you are praying for God to meet a need for you or on behalf of someone else, use His name Jehovah Jireh. KNOW that He is the One Who can provide.
In conclusion, as we delve into the study of the names of our Triune God, we find ourselves drawn closer to the divine essence of the Most High God. Each name, from “O Lord” to the “Word of God,” reveals a facet of His unending love, power, and wisdom.
Embracing these sacred titles not only enriches our faith but also deepens our understanding of His presence in our lives. May this exploration inspire us to seek a more profound relationship with the Almighty, allowing His words to guide our paths and His love to fill our hearts eternally.
One of the best references that I’ve found on praying the names of God is by Tony Evans, Praying Through the Names of God. In it, he explains many of the names of God and provides a prayer related to each of the names and attributes of God.
Here is a video of a sermon by Tony Evans on the names of God:
Or one of these recommended resources:
Praying the Names of God by Ann Spangler
The Power of God’s Names (The Names of God Series) by Tony Evans
Do you pray through the names of God? Do you enjoy studying them? Which is your favorite? I’d love to hear about it. Tell me in the comments below.
Because of Him,
Sue
ESV – “Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.”
May
Sunday 2nd of May 2021
This is definitely on my list of studies I need to do.
My friend from Church is learning the different names of God, and this article has now also inspired me!
I'm a newbie to blogging and Jesus; SeasonsInMay and any knowledge I can take in is so much help!
Thanks again :)
May xx
Eziada Chizo
Tuesday 11th of August 2020
Dear Susan, God bless your Ministry for the good work you are doing. My family is currently praying for our sibling who is seriously ill and has been bedridden for a while now. We are praying for God to grant him speedy recovery. I was searching for more information on JEHOVAH RAPHA when I stumbled on your write-up on the many names of God. It was very useful. Thank you and remain blessed. Eziada , Nigeria.
Susan Nelson
Tuesday 11th of August 2020
Thank you for writing. I'm so glad that the article blessed you. I will lift your sibling and family in prayer to our Heavenly Father. God bless you.
Katherina
Saturday 8th of August 2020
Hi, where did you get your sources and translations for the names of God? I checked the interlinear bible and Jehova Raah/Rohi do not exist so if you would be able to give me more details on this because I have marked half my bible and I want truth in it lol. So, if you would be so kind to reply and give me your sources that would be so lovely <3
Susan Nelson
Saturday 8th of August 2020
Hi, Katherina - I use many sources - for my posts on the names of God I have used these, plus many more: 2 online sources are https://bible.org and crosswalk.com. I also have a few books including The Complete Guide to the Names of God and Names of God (bought from Christianbook). Rohi has other forms, as well including Raah and Roi - depending on the source. It's also found in the Holman Bible Dictionary. When I can get to my Hebrew Greek Study Bible, I'll try to remember to share the entry number.
Harriet Eshun
Wednesday 15th of April 2020
I have the keys now God richly bless you Susan for the effort. This work is a huge light for me.
I would want to join the ministry am Harriet from Ghana
Blessings sister
Susan Nelson
Friday 17th of April 2020
Thank you for stopping by. Keep giving yourself to God and praying for how He will use you. Blessings to you, as well, sister.
Stacey
Wednesday 21st of August 2019
Susan thank you for this post. I am so grateful that Jehovah Rapha lead me here! Years ago someone prayed Jehovah Nissi over my family. I am so excited to finally know what it means! I will be immersing myself in your wisdom. I love the name woman of noble character. Thank you again, Stacey
susanjnelson
Wednesday 21st of August 2019
You are so very welcome! May God continue to draw you closer to Him! Have a beautiful and blessed day!