The revelation of God's name is a significant theme in the Bible, reflecting His character, authority, and relationship with His people. Throughout Scripture, God discloses His name in various contexts, each revealing different aspects of His divine nature and covenantal promises.

YHWH (Yahweh)

The most profound revelation of God's name occurs in the encounter between God and Moses at the burning bush. In Exodus 3:13-15, Moses asks God what he should say to the Israelites when they inquire about the name of the God who sent him. God responds, "I AM WHO I AM" (Exodus 3:14), and instructs Moses to tell the Israelites, "I AM has sent me to you." This name, often rendered as YHWH or Yahweh, signifies God's eternal, self-existent nature. It is a declaration of His unchanging presence and faithfulness to His covenant people.

El Shaddai

Before the revelation of Yahweh, God was known to the patriarchs by the name El Shaddai, meaning "God Almighty." In Genesis 17:1, God appears to Abram and says, "I am God Almighty; walk before Me and be blameless." This name emphasizes God's supreme power and sufficiency, assuring His people of His ability to fulfill His promises.

Elohim

The name Elohim is used throughout the Old Testament to denote God's majesty and creative power. It is the first name for God found in the Bible, appearing in Genesis 1:1: "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." Elohim is a plural form, suggesting the fullness and complexity of God's nature, which is later revealed in the doctrine of the Trinity.

Adonai

Adonai, meaning "Lord" or "Master," is another name for God that underscores His authority and sovereignty. It is often used in contexts where God's lordship and governance over creation and His people are highlighted. For instance, in Psalm 8:1, David declares, "O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth!"

Jehovah Jireh

In Genesis 22:14, after God provides a ram as a substitute for Isaac, Abraham names the place Jehovah Jireh, meaning "The LORD Will Provide." This name reveals God's provision and foreshadows His ultimate provision of salvation through Jesus Christ.

Jehovah Rapha

Exodus 15:26 introduces God as Jehovah Rapha, "The LORD Who Heals." Here, God promises the Israelites that if they obey His commands, He will protect them from the diseases that afflicted the Egyptians. This name highlights God's power to heal and restore, both physically and spiritually.

Jehovah Nissi

In Exodus 17:15, after the Israelites' victory over the Amalekites, Moses builds an altar and names it Jehovah Nissi, "The LORD Is My Banner." This name signifies God's protection and leadership in battle, symbolizing His role as the defender of His people.

Jehovah Shalom

In Judges 6:24, Gideon builds an altar to the LORD and calls it Jehovah Shalom, "The LORD Is Peace." This name reflects God's ability to bring peace and wholeness, even in times of turmoil and conflict.

Jehovah Tsidkenu

Jeremiah 23:6 introduces Jehovah Tsidkenu, "The LORD Our Righteousness," as a prophetic name for the coming Messiah. This name emphasizes God's provision of righteousness for His people through the redemptive work of Christ.

Jehovah Sabaoth

The name Jehovah Sabaoth, "The LORD of Hosts," appears frequently in the prophetic books, such as Isaiah and Jeremiah. It portrays God as the commander of heavenly armies, underscoring His omnipotence and authority over all spiritual and earthly realms.

The Name of Jesus

In the New Testament, the revelation of God's name reaches its culmination in Jesus Christ. The angel instructs Joseph to name the child Jesus, "because He will save His people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21). The name Jesus, derived from the Hebrew Yeshua, means "The LORD is salvation." Philippians 2:9-11 declares that God exalted Jesus and "gave Him the name above all names," affirming His divine identity and redemptive mission.

The revelation of God's name throughout Scripture is a profound testament to His character, His covenantal faithfulness, and His desire to be known by His people. Each name reveals a unique aspect of His divine nature, inviting believers into a deeper understanding and relationship with the Almighty.