Topical Encyclopedia
The concept of the "Holy Name" in the Bible refers to the sacred and revered names of God, which hold significant theological and spiritual importance. These names reveal aspects of God's character, His relationship with humanity, and His divine attributes. The use of God's name is a central theme throughout the Scriptures, emphasizing the holiness, power, and authority inherent in His identity.
YHWH (Yahweh/Jehovah): The most sacred name of God in the Hebrew Bible is YHWH, often rendered as Yahweh or Jehovah. This name is revealed to Moses in
Exodus 3:14-15, where God declares, "I AM WHO I AM." This self-existent and eternal name signifies God's unchanging nature and His covenant relationship with Israel. The Berean Standard Bible translates
Exodus 3:14 as, "God said to Moses, 'I AM WHO I AM.' And He said, 'This is what you are to say to the Israelites: ‘I AM has sent me to you.’"
Elohim: Another significant name for God is Elohim, a plural form that emphasizes the majesty and power of God as Creator. It is used in the very first verse of the Bible,
Genesis 1:1, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." The use of Elohim underscores God's supreme authority over all creation.
Adonai: This name, meaning "Lord" or "Master," is used to express God's sovereignty and lordship. It is often used in conjunction with YHWH to denote God's supreme authority and His personal relationship with His people. For example, in
Psalm 8:1 , "O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth!"
El Shaddai: Translated as "God Almighty," this name highlights God's ultimate power and sufficiency. It is first used in
Genesis 17:1 when God appears to Abram and says, "I am God Almighty; walk before Me and be blameless."
Jehovah Jireh: Meaning "The LORD Will Provide," this name is revealed in
Genesis 22:14 when God provides a ram as a substitute for Isaac. It reflects God's provision and care for His people.
Jehovah Rapha: Translated as "The LORD Who Heals," this name is found in
Exodus 15:26, where God promises healing to the Israelites, saying, "For I am the LORD who heals you."
Jehovah Nissi: Meaning "The LORD Is My Banner," this name is used in
Exodus 17:15 after the victory over the Amalekites, symbolizing God's protection and leadership.
Jehovah Shalom: Translated as "The LORD Is Peace," this name is revealed in
Judges 6:24 when Gideon builds an altar to the LORD, acknowledging His peace amidst turmoil.
The Name of Jesus: In the New Testament, the name of Jesus holds profound significance.
Philippians 2:9-11 states, "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." The name of Jesus embodies salvation, authority, and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.
Reverence for the Holy Name: The Bible emphasizes the importance of revering God's name. The Third Commandment in
Exodus 20:7 instructs, "You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not leave anyone unpunished who takes His name in vain." This command underscores the sanctity of God's name and the need for believers to honor it in speech and conduct.
Throughout Scripture, the Holy Name of God is a source of comfort, strength, and hope for believers. It serves as a reminder of God's presence, His promises, and His eternal nature. The reverence for God's name is a reflection of the deep respect and awe that His character and deeds inspire in the hearts of the faithful.