Yahweh: The Sacred Name of God Explained
Understanding God's Personal Name in the Hebrew Bible
Core Definition
Yahweh (Hebrew: ΧΧΧΧ) is God's personal, covenant name revealed to Moses. It emphasizes God's self-existence ('I AM WHO I AM') and His faithful relationship with His people. This sacred name appears over 6,800 times in the Hebrew Bible.
At a Glance
The Burning Bush Revelation
When Moses asked God for His name at the burning bush, God replied, 'I AM WHO I AM' (Exodus 3:14). The Hebrew word YHWH comes from this declaration, emphasizing that God exists by His own nature - He doesn't depend on anything else for His existence.
"God said to Moses, 'I AM WHO I AM.' He said, 'You shall tell the children of Israel this: I AM has sent me to you.'"β Exodus 3:14
Why English Bibles Say 'LORD'
Out of deep reverence, ancient Jews stopped pronouncing YHWH aloud and substituted 'Adonai' (Lord) when reading Scripture. English translations honor this tradition by using 'LORD' in small capitals.
What This Name Teaches Us About God
Self-Existence
God doesn't depend on anything else. He simply IS.
Eternality
God exists outside of time - always present, never changing.
Faithfulness
God keeps His promises and covenant commitments without fail.
Personal Relationship
YHWH is God's personal name for intimate relationship with His people.
π 7 more divine attributes hidden in the name
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We found 6,828 occurrences of Yahweh - each revealing something unique about God's character. See what 127,000+ users are discovering.
Common Questions About Yahweh
Is 'Jehovah' the same as Yahweh?
Jehovah is a traditional English rendering that combines the consonants YHWH with the vowels of 'Adonai.' Most scholars believe 'Yahweh' is closer to the original pronunciation.
Why did Jews stop saying the name?
Out of deep reverence and to avoid accidentally taking God's name 'in vain' (Exodus 20:7), Jewish tradition developed the practice of saying 'Adonai' instead.
What's the difference between Yahweh and Elohim?
Elohim is a general term for God emphasizing power and majesty. Yahweh is God's personal, covenant name emphasizing relationship and faithfulness.
Key Verses
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