Picturing Theology, Revised Edition

158 | Picturing Theology, Revised Edition

C. Yahweh (Jehovah) 1. The name Yahweh translates the Hebrew tetragrammaton (four lettered expression) YHWH. Since the original name contained no vowels, it is uncertain how it should be pronounced. (For instance, the ASV translates it “Jehovah,” whereas most modern translations simply render it “LORD” [to distinguish it from Adonai , “Lord”]). 2. Jewish scholars generally pronounce it as “ Adonai ” rather than voicing YHWH, out of respect for its sacredness. 3. It is used as a common designation (used 6,828 times in the Old Testament), and some suggest it may be related to the verb “to be.” (Cf. Exodus 3:14–15 the Lord declares, “I AM WHO I AM...The Lord . . . has sent me to you. This is my name forever.) 4. Yahweh as the I AM connects to the “I AM” claims of Messiah Jesus (cf. John 6:35; 8:12; 10:9, 11; 11:25; 14:6; 15:1), who claimed equality with Yahweh. 5. Yahweh , the name of covenant relationship a. The name of the Abrahamic Covenant (Genesis 12:8) b. The name of the Exodus (Exodus 6:6; 20:2) c. A unique relationship : although the terms Elohim and Adonai were terms known to other peoples, Yahweh was unique to Israel. II. Compound names: the name of God involving the names El (or Elohim) and Yahweh A. El Shaddai 1. Translated “God Almighty” 2. Probably relates to the word mountain , suggesting the power or strength of God 3. The name of God as a covenant-keeping God (Genesis 17:1; cf. vv. 1–8)