Yahweh is a name for the God of the Israelites, representing the biblical pronunciation of “YHWH,” the Hebrew name revealed to Moses in the book of Exodus.
Understanding Yahweh
Yahweh serves as a pivotal name in the Abrahamic traditions, particularly within Judaism, referring to the sovereign deity worshiped by the ancient Israelites. Its profound significance stems from its direct connection to biblical narratives, establishing it as the personal and unique name of God revealed to humanity.
Origin and Revelation
The name Yahweh is understood to be the vocalized form of the tetragrammaton, YHWH, which consists of the four Hebrew consonants of God's unpronounceable name. This sacred name was revealed directly by God to Moses, as recorded in the foundational texts of the book of Exodus. This revelation marked a crucial moment in biblical history, providing the Israelites with a distinct and personal identifier for their deity.
Alternative Names and Forms
While Yahweh is the reconstructed biblical pronunciation, the name is also recognized by other forms and titles. These variations reflect different linguistic traditions and theological interpretations over time.
| Name/Form | Description |
|---|---|
| YHWH | The four Hebrew consonants (Tetragrammaton) from which Yahweh is derived. |
| Jehovah | A later, vocalized form that combines the consonants of YHWH with the vowels of "Adonai" (Lord). |
