10 Names of God and What They Reveal About His Character
The names of God in Scripture are not mere labels; they are profound revelations of His character, attributes, and His relationship with humanity. Each name unveils a unique facet of His infinite being, offering us a deeper understanding of who He is and how He interacts with His creation. From the mighty Creator to the ever-present Lord, these names serve as anchors for our faith, reminding us of His power, provision, peace, and unfailing presence. As we explore ten of these significant names, predominantly from the Old Testament, we will see how the KJV Bible beautifully portrays the multifaceted nature of our glorious God.
Elohim
The name Elohim (אֱלֹהִים) is the first name used for God in the Bible, appearing in the very first verse of Genesis. It is a plural noun, yet consistently used with singular verbs, hinting at the Trinity and emphasizing God's majestic plurality and absolute power. It speaks of God as the mighty Creator, the Sovereign One who brings forth all things from nothing. This name reveals God's omnipotence and His role as the transcendent, all-powerful Deity over all creation.
In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
Elohim reveals God as the ultimate source of all life and existence, the one who is worthy of all worship and awe because of His unparalleled creative power and absolute authority over the universe He spoke into being.
Jehovah (Yahweh - LORD)
The name Jehovah (יְהוָה), often translated as "LORD" in all capital letters in the KJV, is God's personal, covenant name. It is derived from the Hebrew verb "to be," meaning "He causes to be," or "I AM THAT I AM." This name was revealed to Moses at the burning bush and signifies God's self-existence, eternal nature, and His unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises. It is the name that emphasizes God's relational character and His active presence with His people.
And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you. And God said moreover unto Moses, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, The LORD God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath sent me unto you: this is my name for ever, and this is my memorial unto all generations.
Jehovah underscores God's faithfulness, His unchanging nature, and His commitment to His chosen people throughout history, demonstrating that He is always present and always true to His word.
Adonai
The name Adonai (אֲדֹנָי), meaning "Lord" or "Master," emphasizes God's sovereignty and His position as the absolute ruler and owner of all things. It denotes a relationship of master to servant, highlighting God's authority and our submission to Him. When used in reference to God, it expresses a recognition of His supreme dominion over all creation and all people. It speaks to His rightful claim to our obedience and worship.
And Abram said, Lord GOD, what wilt thou give me, seeing I go childless, and the steward of my house is this Eliezer of Damascus?
Adonai reveals God as the sovereign controller of all circumstances, the One who holds all power and authority, and to whom all creation is accountable. It encourages humble submission and trust in His supreme will.
El Shaddai
El Shaddai (אֵל שַׁדַּי) means "God Almighty" or "God All-Sufficient." This name often appears in contexts of God's blessing, fruitfulness, and His ability to perform beyond human expectation. It portrays God as the nourisher, the satisfier, and the One who is more than enough. He is the strong and powerful God who provides for, sustains, and blesses His people, especially in times of weakness or impossibility.
And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.
El Shaddai assures us of God's limitless power and His abundant provision. It reveals His character as the One who can accomplish all things, making the barren fruitful and fulfilling His promises even when human strength fails.
Jehovah-Jireh
The name Jehovah-Jireh (יְהוָה יִרְאֶה) means "The LORD Will Provide." This name was given by Abraham after God provided a ram as a substitute sacrifice for Isaac on Mount Moriah. It signifies God's foresight and His active provision for His people's needs, often in miraculous ways. It points to God's ultimate provision of salvation through His Son, Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.
And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovahjireh: as it is said to this day, In the mount of the LORD it shall be seen.
Jehovah-Jireh reveals God's character as the faithful provider who anticipates our needs and supplies them, demonstrating His love, wisdom, and sovereign control over all circumstances to bring about His perfect will.
Jehovah-Rapha
Jehovah-Rapha (יְהוָה רָפָא) means "The LORD That Heals." This name was revealed to the Israelites after they complained about the bitter waters of Marah, which God made sweet. It emphasizes God's power to heal and restore, not only physically but also spiritually and emotionally. He is the divine Physician who can mend broken bodies, hearts, and spirits, bringing wholeness and health to His people who obey Him.
And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that healeth thee.
Jehovah-Rapha highlights God's compassionate nature and His desire for the well-being of His people. It assures us that He is capable of bringing restoration and healing in every aspect of our lives, both now and eternally.
Jehovah-Nissi
Jehovah-Nissi (יְהוָה נִסִּי) means "The LORD My Banner" or "The LORD My Standard." This name was given by Moses after the Israelites' victory over the Amalekites, where the battle was won by God's intervention as Moses held up his hands. A banner or standard was a rallying point in battle, signifying leadership, protection, and victory. This name declares God as our source of victory in spiritual warfare, our protector, and the one we rally under.
And Moses built an altar, and called the name of it Jehovahnissi:
Jehovah-Nissi reveals God's character as the victorious warrior, the One who fights for His people and leads them to triumph over their enemies. It assures believers that their ultimate victory comes from Him alone, and He is their unfailing defense.
Jehovah-Shalom
The name Jehovah-Shalom (יְהוָה שָׁלוֹם) means "The LORD Is Peace." This name was proclaimed by Gideon after the Angel of the LORD appeared to him and assured him that he would not die, despite seeing the divine messenger. In a time of great fear and oppression under the Midianites, God's assurance brought peace. This name signifies that God Himself is the source of true peace, not merely the absence of conflict, but wholeness, well-being, and tranquility.
Then Gideon built an altar there unto the LORD, and called it Jehovahshalom: unto this day it is yet in Ophrah of the Abiezrites.
Jehovah-Shalom reveals God as the giver of inner peace, the one who calms our fears and anxieties, and who establishes order and harmony where there is chaos. He is our ultimate source of security and rest for our souls.
Jehovah-Tsidkenu
Jehovah-Tsidkenu (יְהוָה צִדְקֵנוּ) means "The LORD Our Righteousness." This prophetic name is used in Jeremiah to describe the future Messiah, the righteous Branch who will reign as King. It signifies that God Himself provides righteousness to His people. We, being unrighteous by nature, can only be made right with God through His provision. This name points directly to Jesus Christ, who became our righteousness through His sacrifice.
In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.
Jehovah-Tsidkenu reveals God's perfect justice and His gracious provision for our salvation. It assures us that our standing before a holy God is not based on our own merit, but on the righteousness imputed to us by faith in His Son.
Jehovah-Shammah
The name Jehovah-Shammah (יְהוָה שָׁמָּה) means "The LORD Is There." This name concludes Ezekiel's prophecy, referring to the future New Jerusalem. It signifies God's omnipresence and His abiding, eternal presence with His people. It is a promise of His constant companionship, a reminder that He is never distant, but always near to those who belong to Him. This name assures us of God's intimate fellowship and His dwelling among His redeemed.
It was round about eighteen thousand measures: and the name of the city from that day shall be, The LORD is there.
Jehovah-Shammah reveals God's immanence and His desire for intimate fellowship with humanity. It is a comforting assurance that no matter where we are or what we face, the sovereign, covenant-keeping God is always present with us, fulfilling His promise to never leave us nor forsake us.
Conclusion
The names of God are not merely ancient titles; they are living revelations of His unchanging character. Each name we have explored—from Elohim, the mighty Creator, to Jehovah-Shammah, the ever-present Lord—adds depth and richness to our understanding of who God is. They unveil His omnipotence, His faithfulness, His provision, His healing power, His victorious leadership, His peace-giving nature, His righteousness, and His abiding presence. As believers, knowing these names and what they represent deepens our worship, strengthens our faith, and provides comfort in times of trial.
To truly know God is to know His names and to see how they are perfectly embodied in the person of Jesus Christ, who is God with us. May our hearts continually meditate on these glorious names, trusting in the character they reveal, and drawing closer to the One who is all in all. In His names, we find our strength, our hope, and our eternal salvation.