Exploring the Divine Names: 10 Biblical Titles for God

"Let them praise the name of the LORD, for his name alone is exalted; his splendor is above the earth and the heavens." - Psalm 148:13

Divine Titles in the Old Testament

The Bible is rich with names for God, each carrying profound significance and offering insights into His character. Here are ten names of God from the Old Testament that deepen our understanding and relationship with Him:

El Elyon (The Most High God)

"I will cry out to God Most High, to God, who fulfills his purpose for me." - Psalm 57:2

El Elyon, meaning "The Most High God," emphasizes His supreme sovereignty over all creation. This name was used by Melchizedek, the king of Salem, when he blessed Abraham, highlighting God's dominion over all earthly kings and powers.

Adonai (Lord, Master)

"Oh, Lord God, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you." - Jeremiah 32:17

Adonai conveys God's role as the master and ruler over all, including His people. It's a term of respect and submission, acknowledging His authority and our commitment to serve Him.

El Olam (The Everlasting God)

"Abraham planted a tamarisk tree in Beersheba, and there he called on the name of the LORD, the Eternal God." - Genesis 21:33

El Olam speaks to God's eternal nature, unchanging and everlasting, offering comfort in His perpetual presence and faithfulness.

Jehovah Jireh (The Lord Will Provide)

"Abraham named the place Yahweh-Yireh (which means 'the LORD will provide'). To this day, people still use that name as a proverb: 'On the mountain of the LORD it will be provided.'" - Genesis 22:14

This name became known when God provided a ram for Abraham to sacrifice instead of his son Isaac. It reassures believers that God sees and provides for our needs in His perfect timing.

Jehovah Rapha (The Lord Who Heals)

"If you listen carefully to the LORD your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the LORD, who heals you." - Exodus 15:26

Jehovah Rapha reminds us of God's power to heal, both physically and spiritually, restoring us to wholeness.

Jehovah Shalom (The Lord Is Peace)

"Gideon built an altar there to the LORD and called it The LORD Is Peace." - Judges 6:24

After an encounter with God, Gideon named the altar Jehovah Shalom, signifying the peace that comes from knowing God's presence and protection.

Jehovah Tsidkenu (The Lord Our Righteousness)

"In his days Judah will be saved and Israel will live in safety. This is the name by which he will be called: The LORD Our Righteous Savior." - Jeremiah 23:6

This name was prophesied for the Messiah, emphasizing that our righteousness comes from God alone, not from our own deeds.

Jehovah Nissi (The Lord Is My Banner)

"Moses built an altar and called it The LORD is my Banner." - Exodus 17:15

After a victory over the Amalekites, Moses erected an altar, symbolizing God as the banner under which His people rally and find victory.

Jehovah Mekoddishkem (The Lord Who Sanctifies You)

"Keep my decrees and follow them. I am the LORD, who makes you holy." - Leviticus 20:8

This name reflects God's role in setting His people apart, making them holy, and sanctifying them for His purposes.

Jehovah Sabaoth (The Lord of Hosts)

"Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, he is the King of glory." - Psalm 24:10

Jehovah Sabaoth, or the Lord of Hosts, underscores God's command over the angelic armies, His might, and His readiness to defend His people.

Each of these names not only reveals an aspect of God's nature but also invites us into a deeper, more intimate relationship with Him, understanding His role in our lives and His eternal promises.