El = God

The Hebrew word El (which is derived from a root word meaning “power, might, or strength”) is the most basic Hebrew word for god (referring to pagan gods) or God (referring to the God of Israel, the one true God). It is rarely used by itself in the Bible. Almost always, it is joined with additional descriptive words for Israel’s God. Take, for example, these names for God:

- El Echad (“one God,” Malachi 2:10)

- El Hanne’eman (“the faithful God,” Deuteronomy 7:9)

- El Emet (“God of truth,” Psalm 31:5 KJV)

Clearly, it takes a lot of names to describe an infinite God! But El is more than just a prefix. As stated previously, it connotes the mighty, relentless power of God. It refers to His omnipotent strength. And when combined with other names (or attributes) of God, it works to magnify them.

Jehovah-Ra’ah = The Lord Is My Shepherd

The primary meaning of shepherd (Ra’ah) is to feed, to tend, to lead to pasture. To do all this, a shepherd has to be up close and personal, intimately aware of the needs of his sheep. Also a shepherd is the protector of his flock. This is why he carries a rod—to fight off predators that would harm even one of his rams, ewes, or lambs.

If all that is what a shepherd does, what’s the job description of sheep? Easy. A sheep trusts its shepherd. As sheep, we follow. We go where our Shepherd leads. We do what He tells us to do. We look to Him to supply all our needs.

ABBA = Father

If you grew up with a father who was consistently there for you, let that earthly dad point you to the Father who is beyond good. And if you grew up without a good father, let that experience drive you to Abba, the One who perfectly meets the deepest needs—and desires—of our hearts.

Alpha and Omega = The First and the Last

The Hebrew prophet Isaiah wrote that God was there in the beginning—“with the first”—and He will be here “with the last” (41:4). In other words, God serves as bookends for history. What a comforting thought in a world where nothing lasts and everything constantly changes! The One supervising when the world began will be the superintendent at the consummation of all things.

El Olam =The Everlasting God, the Eternal God

God is the great exception. He is the one CEO, if you will, who reigns forever and ever. His kingdom is the one entity that will never end. This is because he is El Olam, which is Hebrew for eternal, everlasting, or forever. God is impervious to time and change. As the everlasting God, He will never cash in His stock options and hand over the reins to someone else.

El Chaiyai = God of My Life

One of the awesome teachings of the Christian faith is that we are not defined by what we do. Our identity is rooted in the everlasting God who made us, not in the things we make (careers, families, mistakes, etc.). As the One who designed us, God is the One who defines us. Before (and after) we are anything else, we are redeemed people who are beloved creatures of God—made by Him and for Him, built for His glory.

El Elyon = God Most High

We love being above others, which makes things interesting when we see God described as “God Most High” (El Elyon) in Genesis 14. This distinct name sets God apart from all would-be “competitors” or “rivals.” As the Most High, the God of the Bible is supreme. He is lifted up, exalted, positioned far above mere high things or even higher things. As the Most High, He surpasses all else. No one can go toe-to-toe or see eye to eye with the Most High. No one can raise himself or herself above God and look down on God.

El Roi = The God Who Sees Me

Do you feel like you’re alone, that nobody really sees (much less understands) the troubles you face? . . . Even in such dark times, trust that God is El Roi. He sees—and He sees you. He looks intently. He notices. He studies everything and misses nothing. Others may overlook you or forget you, but God never will. And because He sees you, He knows what you need and gladly provides the comfort you are looking for.

Jehovah-RaphaThe Lord Who Heals

If you’ve wallowed in guilt and shame, felt the heartbreak of a broken relationship, agonized over a wayward family member, felt grief over a lost loved one, or been disappointed by an unfulfilled dream, you know that spiritual, emotional, and relational hurts can sometimes be more painful than physical maladies.

The good news is that God is able to heal more than just the physical—much more. In fact, he can meet our greatest need: spiritual healing.

Adonai = LORD

Because ancient Hebrews considered the divine name YHWH (Yahweh) too holy to pronounce, they substituted Adonai instead, which is translated “Lord.” Inherent in the title or name Adonai are the ideas of sovereignty, rulership, and honor.

YHWH I AM

I Am. The meaning is powerful, even when translated into English. To say “I am” means “I exist.” But as a name, it also suggests timelessness, self-sufficiency, changelessness.

Shalom

Jehovah-Shalom The Lord Is Peace

 Because true peace—what the Bible calls shalom—is much more than just the “absence from strife.” Shalom isn’t merely the absence of conflict; it’s also the presence of fullness and joy, friendship and love. In truth, shalom is life as God meant for it to be.