### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼĂdônây**, represented by `{{H136}}`, is an emphatic form used as a proper name for God, translated as **the Lord** or **(my) Lord**. It appears 434 times in 419 unique verses, establishing its significance as a term of address that denotes God's supreme authority and mastership.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H136}}` is frequently used in moments of profound prayer, prophetic commission, and divine declarations. It is the title used by David when he expresses his humility, asking, "Who am I, O **Lord** GOD?" [[2 Samuel 7:18]]. Jeremiah uses it to acknowledge God's omnipotence, exclaiming, "Ah **Lord** GOD! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth" [[Jeremiah 32:17]]. The prophet Isaiah's pivotal vision in the temple begins with the sight of "the **Lord** sitting upon a throne" [[Isaiah 6:1]], and it is the "voice of the **Lord**" that issues his call to ministry [[Isaiah 6:8]]. This name emphasizes a direct and reverential address to the sovereign ruler of all.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the unique status of `{{H136}}` as a divine title:
* `{{H3068}}` **Yᵉhôvâh** (Jehovah, the Lord): This is the Jewish national name of God, referring to the self-Existent or Eternal one. It often appears in passages affirming God's covenant promises and faithfulness to His people [[Isaiah 45:17]].
* `{{H3069}}` **Yᵉhôvih** (God): A variation of `{{H3068}}`, it is specifically used after `{{H136}}` to form the composite title "Lord GOD." This pairing underscores God's absolute sovereignty, as when He reveals His secret plans to His prophets [[Amos 3:7]].
* `{{H430}}` **ʼĕlôhîym** (God): While this can refer to gods in a general sense, it is specifically used for the supreme God. It is used alongside `{{H136}}` in personal prayers, such as when Daniel seeks the "**Lord** God" [[Daniel 9:3]] and acknowledges that mercies belong "To the **Lord** our God" [[Daniel 9:9]].
* `{{H5650}}` **ʻebed** (a servant): This term stands in direct relationship to `{{H136}}`, defining the role of humanity before the ultimate Master. God reveals His plans "unto his **servants** the prophets" [[Amos 3:7]], highlighting the dynamic between the supreme Lord and those who serve Him.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H136}}` is demonstrated through its connection to core divine attributes and actions:
* **Sovereign Creator:** The title acknowledges God as the ultimate power who created the heaven and the earth and for whom nothing is too difficult [[Jeremiah 32:17]]. He is the "great and terrible" Lord who sits enthroned in majesty ([[Nehemiah 4:14]], [[Isaiah 6:1]]).
* **Prophetic Revelation:** It is the **Lord** GOD who commissions messengers [[Isaiah 6:8]], gives the "tongue of the **learned**" [[Isaiah 50:4]], and reveals His secrets to His servants [[Amos 3:7]]. The title is intrinsically linked to the divine source of all prophecy.
* **Messianic Hope:** Key prophecies are delivered using this name. The **Lord** GOD promises to lay a cornerstone in Zion [[Isaiah 28:16]], and the **Lord** himself gives the sign of **Immanuel** `{{H6005}}` [[Isaiah 7:14]]. The Spirit of the **Lord** GOD anoints a figure to bring good news [[Isaiah 61:1]].
* **Personal and Relational God:** Despite His immense power, **ʼĂdônây** is a God who is good, ready to forgive, and plenteous in mercy to those who call upon Him [[Psalms 86:5]]. The "fear of the **Lord**" is presented as the very definition of wisdom [[Job 28:28]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H136}}` is more than a generic title; it is an emphatic name used to address God as the supreme Master and sovereign ruler. It frames the relationship between God and humanity as one of absolute authority and reverent submission. From the powerful declarations of prophets to the intimate prayers of kings, **ʼĂdônây** consistently points to the unrivaled power, wisdom, and redemptive purpose of God.
TRV