God is known by many names across different religious traditions, each reflecting various aspects of His nature and character.
In Christianity
- The Bible contains numerous names for God, with some scholars identifying up to 24 distinct names. Examples include Jehovah Jireh (The Lord Will Provide), Jehovah Rapha (The Lord Who Heals), Jehovah Nissi (The Lord Our Banner), Jehovah Shalom (The Lord Is Peace), Jehovah Raah (The Lord My Shepherd), Jehovah Tsidkenu (The Lord Our Righteousness), Jehovah Shammah (The Lord Is There), Abba Father, Adonai, Alpha and Omega, El Roi, Elohim, and El Elyon
- Christian theology also emphasizes the Trinity, where God exists as three persons: The Father, The Son (Jesus Christ), and The Holy Spirit, each with titles and names reflecting their roles
In Judaism
- Seven primary sacred names of God are traditionally recognized: YHWH (the Tetragrammaton), Adonai, El, Elohim, Shaddai, Tzevaot, and Ehyeh. These names are considered so holy that they are not erased once written
Biblical Frequency and Usage
- The personal name of God in the Hebrew Bible is YHWH, often rendered as Jehovah or Yahweh, appearing about 6,800 to 7,000 times. This is considered God's unique personal name
- Other frequently used names include Elohim (God, Creator), Adonai (Lord), and El (Mighty One)
Summary
While God's personal name is singular (YHWH/Jehovah), the Bible and religious traditions use many names and titles to describe God's attributes, roles, and relationships with humanity. These names number from a handful to dozens depending on the tradition and context, reflecting the multifaceted nature of God. Thus, God has one primary personal name but many descriptive names and titles-commonly over 20 in Christianity and several sacred names in Judaism- each revealing different dimensions of His divine character
