10 names of God and their meaning include: EL/ELOAH, ELOHIM, EL SHADDAI, EL ELYON, EL OLAM, ADONAI, YAHWEH/JEHOVAH, YAHWEH JIREH, YAHWEH RAPHA, and YAHWEH NISSI.
10 Names of God and Their Meaning
God’s names reveal His character, power, and relationship with humanity. Each name reflects a unique aspect of His divine nature and authority. Understanding these names helps believers grow in faith, trust, and worship.
From Creator to Healer, each name carries deep theological meaning and practical application. These names show God’s unchanging nature and eternal presence. Exploring them strengthens our understanding of His promises and guidance. Let’s dive into 10 powerful names of God and their meaning in our lives.
1. EL/ELOAH (Genesis 33:20)
“Then he erected an altar there and called it El Elohe Israel” (Genesis 33:20).
A. Definition
“El” means “God” and signifies strength, power, and might. It appears frequently in the Old Testament to describe God’s supreme power. “Eloah” is the singular form of “Elohim,” emphasizing God’s supremacy over all.
These names highlight God’s unmatched authority and dominion. No force, ruler, or deity can challenge His rule. He alone reigns with absolute power.
B. Theological Overtones
God’s supremacy stands above all creation. He controls the universe, governs nations, and directs human affairs with perfect wisdom and justice. His power shapes history, defends His people, and crushes opposition.
Unlike false gods, He alone holds ultimate authority. No human strength, demonic force, or worldly system can overpower Him. His supremacy remains unchallenged forever.
C. Application
Believers must trust in God’s strength during trials. His supreme power ensures victory over challenges, enemies, and spiritual battles. He never loses control.
Worshiping Him as El, Eloah deepens faith. It reminds us that no situation is too difficult, and no enemy is too strong for Him.
D. Related Scriptures
- Deuteronomy 10:17 – “The LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, mighty, and awesome God.”
- Isaiah 45:5 – “I am the LORD, and there is no other; apart from me, there is no God.”
2. ELOHIM (Genesis 1:1)
“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1).
A. Definition
“Elohim” means “God” and appears over 2,500 times in the Old Testament. It emphasizes God’s supreme power, sovereignty, and authority over creation. The word is plural, suggesting majesty and fullness.
This name first appears in Genesis 1:1, showing God as the all-powerful Creator. His supremacy governs everything, from galaxies to human life.
B. Theological Overtones
God alone created the universe by His word. He formed everything from nothing, demonstrating His limitless power and unmatched authority. Creation reflects His wisdom and design.
Elohim’s plural form hints at God’s triune nature. Father, Son, and Holy Spirit worked together in creation, affirming His eternal existence and supremacy.
C. Application
Believers must recognize God’s supreme power in their lives. He controls all things, sustains creation, and guides history according to His will. Nothing escapes His rule.
Trusting Elohim brings confidence in uncertain times. If He created the universe, He can handle personal struggles, provide solutions, and fulfill His promises.
D. Related Scriptures
- Psalm 19:1 – “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands.”
- Jeremiah 32:17 – “Ah, Lord GOD! You made the heavens and the earth by Your great power; nothing is too difficult for You.”
3. EL SHADDAI (Genesis 17:1)
“When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to Abram and said to him, “I am Almighty God; walk before Me and be blameless” (Genesis 17:1).
A. Definition
“El Shaddai” means “God Almighty” and signifies His absolute power. He controls all things and sustains creation by His divine authority. Nothing limits Him.
“Shaddai” comes from a root meaning “breast” or “mountain,” symbolizing sufficiency, power, and strength. God nourishes, protects, and provides for His people completely.
B. Theological Overtones
El Shaddai revealed Himself to Abraham, promising blessings beyond human ability. His power ensures that nothing hinders His covenant or plans.
God’s sufficiency meets every need. He is never lacking in strength, wisdom, or provision. His power sustains both individuals and nations.
C. Application
Believers must rely on God’s sufficiency, not personal strength. El Shaddai provides, strengthens, and fulfills His promises in every situation.
Trusting Him removes fear. Since He is Almighty, no obstacle, failure, or enemy can stop His will from being accomplished.
D. Related Scriptures
- Psalm 91:1 – “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.”
- 2 Corinthians 12:9 – “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.”
4. EL ELYON (Genesis 14:18-22)
“Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine; he was the priest of God Most High . . . But Abram said to the king of Sodom, “I have raised my hand to the Lord, God Most High, the Possessor of heaven and earth” (Genesis 14:18, 22).
A. Definition
“El Elyon” means “God Most High,” emphasizing His supreme position above all creation. He rules over heaven, earth, and every authority. No one equals Him.
Melchizedek, a priest of El Elyon, blessed Abraham, affirming God’s rule over nations. This name highlights God’s absolute control over history and destiny.
B. Theological Overtones
God’s supremacy governs all things. Kings, nations, and spiritual forces remain under His authority. Nothing happens outside His control or divine plan.
El Elyon rules with wisdom and justice. His sovereignty ensures that His purposes prevail, even when earthly powers try to resist His will.
C. Application
Believers must submit to God’s rule. Trusting His plan brings peace, knowing He directs every detail according to His perfect wisdom and purpose.
Worshiping El Elyon deepens faith. Recognizing His supreme position reminds us that no enemy, problem, or trial can defeat His authority.
D. Related Scriptures
- Psalm 47:2 – “For the LORD Most High is awesome; He is a great King over all the earth.”
- Daniel 4:35 – “He does according to His will among the host of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth.”
5. EL OLAM (Genesis 21:33)
“Then Abraham planted a tamarisk tree in Beersheba, and there called on the name of the Lord, the Everlasting God” (Genesis 21:33).
A. Definition
“El Olam” means “The Everlasting God,” highlighting His eternal nature. He existed before time and remains unchanging forever. His rule has no end.
Abraham called on El Olam, recognizing God’s enduring faithfulness. Unlike human rulers, He never grows weak, never changes, and never fails His promises.
B. Theological Overtones
God’s eternal nature assures us that His plans stand firm. He does not shift with time or circumstances. His purposes remain unshaken.
El Olam’s unchanging faithfulness guarantees His promises. What He spoke in the past remains true today and will be fulfilled in the future.
C. Application
Believers must trust in God’s unchanging character. His eternal faithfulness gives confidence in uncertain times, knowing He remains the same forever.
Worshiping El Olam strengthens endurance. Since He is everlasting, His love, power, and guidance will never fade or fail His people.
D. Related Scriptures
- Isaiah 40:28 – “The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary.”
- Hebrews 13:8 – “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”
6. ADONAI (Genesis 15:2)
“But Abram said, ‘Lord God, what will You give me, seeing I go childless, and the heir of my house is Eliezer of Damascus?'” (Genesis 15:2).
A. Definition
“Adonai” means “Lord” or “Master,” emphasizing God’s authority and right to rule. He governs all creation and commands absolute obedience.
Abraham addressed God as Adonai, acknowledging His sovereign control. This title signifies respect, reverence, submission, and recognition of God’s rightful dominion over all things.
B. Theological Overtones
God’s authority extends over every person, nation, and event. No power can override His rule, and no plan can succeed against His will.
As Adonai, He leads, provides, and corrects His people. He requires obedience, not as a dictator, but as a loving, righteous Master.
C. Application
Believers must submit to Adonai’s rule. Trusting His authority means surrendering personal control and following His commands without hesitation or resistance.
Recognizing Him as Lord brings security. Since He rules with wisdom and love, His leadership always leads to the best possible outcome.
D. Related Scriptures
- Judges 6:15 – “So he said to Him, ‘O my Lord, how can I save Israel? Indeed my clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father’s house.'”
- Psalm 86:3 – “Be merciful to me, O Lord, For I cry to You all day long.”
7. YAHWEH/JEHOVAH (Exodus 3:14)
“And God said to Moses, ‘I AM WHO I AM.’ And He said, ‘Thus you shall say to the children of Israel, ‘I AM has sent me to you.’” (Exodus 3:14)
A. Definition
“Yahweh” (Jehovah) is God’s self-existent name, meaning “I AM WHO I AM.” He depends on nothing for existence and remains eternal.
God revealed this name to Moses, declaring His unchanging nature. Yahweh is personal, ever-present, and faithful to His covenant people.
B. Theological Overtones
Yahweh signifies God’s absolute being. He was, is, and will always be the same, unbound by time, space, or human limitations.
As the covenant-keeping God, He remains faithful to His promises. His people can trust Him completely, for He never changes or fails.
C. Application
Believers must recognize God’s self-existence and sovereignty. He controls all things, fulfills His word, and sustains life without external dependence.
Trusting Yahweh deepens faith. Since He never changes, His promises, love, and guidance remain constant, providing security in every season of life.
D. Related Scriptures
- Malachi 3:6 – “For I the LORD do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, are not consumed.”
- Hebrews 13:8 – “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”
Yahweh and Jehovah refer to the same God, originating from the Hebrew name YHWH (יהוה). Ancient Hebrew lacked vowels, so scholars later added them to form “Yahweh.” However, in the 16th century, German translators combined YHWH with vowels from “Adonai,” creating “Jehovah.”
Despite differences in pronunciation, both names represent the same deity in Jewish and Christian traditions. Over time, language evolution and translation influenced the use of these names. Some Christian groups favor Jehovah due to its long-standing use in translations like the King James Bible, while scholars generally recognize Yahweh as the more accurate pronunciation. Regardless of preference, both names signify the one true God of the Bible, demonstrating linguistic adaptation rather than a theological distinction.
8. YAHWEH JIREH (Genesis 22:14)
A. Definition
“Yahweh Jireh” means “The LORD Will Provide.” It signifies God’s provision, supply, and faithfulness in meeting every need at the right time.
Abraham called God Yahweh Jireh after He provided a ram for sacrifice. This name highlights God’s ability to supply what His people lack.
B. Theological Overtones
God’s provision extends beyond material needs. He supplies wisdom, strength, and salvation, ensuring His people never lack what is truly necessary.
His ultimate provision came through Jesus Christ. Just as He provided a ram for Abraham, He provided Christ as the perfect sacrifice for sin.
C. Application
Believers must trust in God’s provision. He sees every need before it arises and faithfully supplies according to His perfect plan and timing.
Faith in Yahweh Jireh removes worry. Since He provides, His people should focus on obedience, knowing He will supply all that is required.
D. Related Scriptures
- Philippians 4:19 – “And my God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”
- Matthew 6:33 – “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
9. YAHWEH RAPHA (Exodus 15:26)
“and said, ‘If you diligently heed the voice of the Lord your God and do what is right in His sight, give ear to His commandments and keep all His statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you which I have brought on the Egyptians. For I am the Lord who heals you'” (Exodus 15:26)
A. Definition
“Yahweh Rapha” means “The LORD Who Heals.” It reveals God’s power to restore, renew, and bring wholeness to His people physically and spiritually.
God introduced this name after healing Israel from disease. He promised health and protection to those who obeyed His commands.
B. Theological Overtones
God’s healing extends beyond the body. He restores broken hearts, frees people from sin, and grants spiritual healing through salvation in Christ.
Yahweh Rapha’s greatest healing came through Jesus. His death and resurrection brought redemption, curing humanity’s greatest sickness—separation from God.
C. Application
Believers must seek healing from God. He restores the wounded, forgives sin, and provides peace to those who trust Him fully.
Faith in Yahweh Rapha brings hope. Whether facing sickness, emotional pain, or spiritual struggles, His power to heal remains constant and unfailing.
D. Related Scriptures
- Psalm 147:3 – “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
- Isaiah 53:5 – “By His wounds, we are healed.”
10. YAHWEH NISSI (Exodus 17:15)
“And Moses built an altar and called its name, The-Lord-Is-My-Banner;” (Exodus 17:15)
A. Definition
“Yahweh Nissi” means “The LORD is My Banner.” It signifies God’s victory, protection, and leadership over His people in battles and struggles.
Moses built an altar and named it Yahweh Nissi after Israel’s victory over Amalek. This name highlights God as the source of triumph.
B. Theological Overtones
God leads His people into victory. He fights for them, ensuring that no enemy, seen or unseen, can defeat His divine purpose.
Yahweh Nissi represents God’s protective covering. Just as armies rally under a banner, believers find strength and unity under His leadership.
C. Application
Believers must trust in God’s leadership. He guides, protects, and secures victory for those who rely on His strength instead of their own.
Faith in Yahweh Nissi removes fear. Since He fights for His people, they can stand firm, knowing He will bring triumph in every battle.
D. Related Scriptures
- Deuteronomy 20:4 – “For the LORD your God is He who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you victory.”
- 1 Corinthians 15:57 – “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Conclusion
God’s names reveal His character, power, and faithfulness. Each name highlights a different aspect of His relationship with His people. He is supreme, eternal, and unchanging.
Believers must trust in God’s provision, healing, leadership, and victory. He remains the same in every situation, guiding, protecting, and fulfilling His promises.
Knowing His names strengthens faith. Worshiping Yahweh, Elohim, and Adonai deepens understanding and builds confidence in His unshakable love and authority.
Source Material
Biblical Doctrine by John MacArthur and Richard Mayhue
Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament (Volume One & Volume Two) by R. Laird Harris, Gleason L. Archer, Jr., and Bruce K. Waltke
Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Biblical Words by W.E. Vine, Merrill F. Unger, and William White, Jr.