God (Yahweh)

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1. Name / Role

God (Yahweh)

2. Category

Supernatural Beings

3. Time Period / Biblical Context

Yahweh is present from the very beginning of the biblical narrative in Genesis and remains central throughout all 66 books of the Bible. He is the eternal, self-existent Creator, Redeemer, Judge, and Sustainer, revealed progressively through covenant history and ultimately in Jesus Christ.

4. Origin / Background

The name Yahweh (יהוה), often rendered as LORD in English Bibles, is derived from the Hebrew root “to be,” emphasising God’s self-existence and unchanging nature. It was disclosed to Moses at the burning bush: “I AM WHO I AM” (Exodus 3:14). Yahweh is the personal name of the God of Israel, distinguishing Him from false gods and idols. His identity is revealed through His acts in history, His Word, and His covenants.

5. Primary Role / Function

Yahweh functions as the one true God, Creator of heaven and earth, Covenant Maker, Lawgiver, Judge, Redeemer, and Father. He sustains all things, reveals His will to humanity, and orchestrates redemptive history according to His sovereign purposes. He is holy, just, merciful, omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent.

6. Key Characteristics / Traits

  • Eternal, uncreated, and unchangeable
  • Holy, righteous, and loving
  • Gracious and merciful, yet just and wrathful against sin
  • Personally involved with creation and covenant people
  • Transcendent above creation but also immanent within it

7. Symbolism / Spiritual Significance

Yahweh is the ultimate reality, source of all being, and centre of all worship. His name carries sacred weight, representing not just identity but presence, authority, and relationship. Spiritually, Yahweh represents truth, purity, justice, and steadfast love. He is the object of faith, the source of life, and the fulfilment of all covenant promises.

8. Notable Figures / Examples

  • Abraham – Received covenantal promises from Yahweh (Genesis 12; 15)
  • Moses – Spoke with Yahweh “face to face” and delivered His Law (Exodus 3; 19–34)
  • David – Described Yahweh as his Shepherd, Rock, and Deliverer (Psalms)
  • Prophets – Delivered Yahweh’s oracles to Israel and the nations
  • Jesus Christ – Revealed Yahweh perfectly in flesh, being one with the Father (John 1:1, 14; 10:30)

9. Related Bible References

  • Genesis 1:1 – “In the beginning, God created…”
  • Exodus 3:14 – “I AM WHO I AM” – the revelation of Yahweh’s name
  • Deuteronomy 6:4–5 – “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one”
  • Isaiah 45:5–6 – “I am the LORD, and there is no other”
  • Psalm 103 – Celebration of Yahweh’s character and compassion
  • John 1:1–3; 14 – Jesus as the Word, revealing God
  • Revelation 1:8 – “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God

10. Summary / Reflection

Yahweh is the sovereign and personal God of Scripture, distinct from all false deities and human constructs. He is not only the Creator but the covenant-keeping Lord who reveals Himself, dwells with His people, and redeems them through love and justice. To know Yahweh is to enter into a relationship of reverence, obedience, and trust. His holiness demands worship; His mercy invites repentance; His faithfulness assures hope. In Jesus Christ, Yahweh is made fully known, and through the Spirit, His presence continues to dwell with and transform His people.

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