Each language has its own word for God—German speakers say “Gott,” in Russian it’s “Бог” (Bog), in French, “Dieu.” But these aren’t names. They’re categories, ways of identifying, but not intimately knowing. They label the God of heaven and earth, yet the true Name of God, the personal identity He revealed, came only when Moses encountered Him at the burning bush.
When Moses asked God for His name, he wasn’t asking for a label. He was searching for a deeper understanding of God’s nature—who God truly is, beyond the stories of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. God’s response was sacred and profound: “I AM THAT I AM” (Exodus 3:14, NLT). God’s name, often translated as “Yahweh,” speaks to His eternal, unchanging nature. God was saying, “I am consistent. I am who I have always been, and I will continue to be so.”
Names hold great significance to God. Throughout Scripture, we see God change people’s names to reflect their identity in Him—Abram to Abraham, Jacob to Israel, Simon to Peter. Names capture the essence of a relationship; they’re personal and meaningful. And God’s name, Yahweh, is more than a title—it’s an invitation into intimacy with Him, revealing His character and His promises.
Over time, the people of Israel refrained from saying God’s name, fearing they might misuse it. Instead, they called Him “Adonai,” which means “Lord” or “Master.” While respectful, these are still labels, not the name He revealed.
In Exodus 34:6-7, God expounds on His name by revealing His nature: He is compassionate, gracious, slow to anger, abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness. Jesus, Yahweh in the flesh, demonstrated this character perfectly. His heart overflowed with compassion, as seen when He raised a widow’s son out of sheer empathy, acting without even being asked (Luke 7:11-17, NLT).
The “I AM” statements of Jesus—“I am the bread of life,” “I am the good shepherd”—reaffirm Yahweh’s unchanging nature. Just as God is eternally compassionate, Jesus assures us that He will always be our guide, our life, and our hope.
In a world filled with labels and titles, Yahweh’s name stands apart. His name is a beacon of His faithfulness, compassion, and mercy. In knowing and revering His name, we enter a relationship that is true and deeply personal.
