1: Hebrew Term: Shem — שֵׁם

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Pronunciation: shem
Meaning: Name; not merely a label, but an expression of identity, character, authority, and reputation — especially when referring to God.

Old Testament Usage:

Shem carries profound theological significance, often referring to God’s revealed identity and presence. To invoke God’s name is to appeal to His nature and covenant faithfulness. God’s name is associated with protection, power, and worship.

Example Verses:

  • Genesis 4:26 — “At that time people began to call upon the name (shem) of the LORD.”
  • Exodus 3:15 — “This is my name (shem) forever, and thus I am to be remembered throughout all generations.”
  • Proverbs 18:10 — “The name (shem) of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.”
  • Psalm 8:1 — “O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name (shem) in all the earth!”

Intertestamental Usage:

The divine name became so sacred that Jewish tradition avoided pronouncing the Tetragrammaton (YHWH), substituting Adonai (“Lord”) or HaShem (“The Name”). Literature from this period increasingly associated God’s name with His cosmic rule, eschatological power, and mysterious glory. Texts like the Book of Enoch and Ben Sira reflect this elevated reverence.

New Testament Usage:

The Greek word Onoma (ὄνομα) retains both the literal and spiritual significance of shem. The name of Jesus becomes central to the New Testament message of salvation, authority, prayer, and mission. To believe “in His name” implies personal allegiance, divine commissioning, and spiritual access.

Example Verses:

  • Acts 4:12 — “There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name (onoma) under heaven… by which we must be saved.”
  • John 14:13 — “Whatever you ask in my name (onoma), this I will do…”
  • Philippians 2:9–10 — “God… gave him the name (onoma) that is above every name…”

Comparative Summary:

  • Shem signifies the revealed character and covenantal authority of God, central to Old Testament worship and identity.
  • Intertestamental usage elevates the name to a sacred mystery, often used euphemistically and symbolically.
  • Onoma in the New Testament expands this into Christological terms, identifying Jesus’ name with salvation, lordship, and divine authority.
  • The continuity across the Testaments reveals a developing theology of God’s name as the embodiment of His presence, power, and redemptive plan.
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