Yahweh and Elohim

By Dr. Robert C Crowder, 73twentyministries.com

Understanding the Names of God and What They Reveal About Him

One of the great treasures of Scripture is the way God reveals Himself through His names. These names are not random titles or poetic flourishes. They are purposeful, theological, and deeply personal. Among the many names of God found in the Bible, two stand at the center of biblical revelation: Yahweh (often rendered Jehovah) and Elohim.

These names do not compete with one another. They complement one another. Together, they help us understand both who God is and how He relates to the world and to His people.

Yahweh (Jehovah): The Covenant-Keeping Lord

Yahweh is God’s personal and covenant name. It is the name God revealed to Moses at the burning bush when He declared, “I AM THAT I AM” (Exodus 3:14). God further identifies Himself as “the LORD God of your fathers” (Exodus 3:15), linking this name to covenant faithfulness across generations.

The name Yahweh emphasizes God’s self-existence and eternality. He depends on nothing outside Himself. Scripture affirms this truth repeatedly: “Before the mountains were brought forth… even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God” (Psalm 90:2).

More than that, Yahweh is the name that speaks of relationship. It is used when God binds Himself to His people, makes promises, forgives sin, and acts in redemption. “I am the LORD thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt” (Exodus 20:2). Yahweh is the God who saves, not merely the God who rules.

This name appears frequently in passages connected to obedience, worship, repentance, and grace. “The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy” (Psalm 103:8). Even when Israel failed, Yahweh remained faithful. “I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed” (Malachi 3:6).

In simple terms, Yahweh reveals God as the faithful Lord who enters history, keeps His word, and redeems His people.

Elohim: The Sovereign Creator and Ruler

Elohim is the name of God’s majesty and power. Scripture opens with this name: “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth” (Genesis 1:1). From the first verse of the Bible, Elohim is presented as the Creator of all things.

This name emphasizes God’s strength, authority, and sovereignty. Elohim is the God who speaks worlds into existence and governs all creation. “By the word of the LORD were the heavens made” (Psalm 33:6). “For the LORD most high is terrible; he is a great King over all the earth” (Psalm 47:2).

Though Elohim is grammatically plural, it is consistently paired with singular verbs when referring to the true God. This reflects majesty and fullness, not polytheism. “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD” (Deuteronomy 6:4).

Elohim is often used in passages that highlight God’s authority over nations and rulers. “God standeth in the congregation of the mighty; he judgeth among the gods” (Psalm 82:1). “Promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west… but God is the judge” (Psalm 75:6-7).

In short, Elohim reveals God as the all-powerful Creator and Sovereign Ruler of the universe.

Comparing Yahweh and Elohim

When these two names are placed side by side, the depth of biblical revelation becomes clear.

Elohim emphasizes God’s greatness and authority.
Yahweh emphasizes God’s nearness and faithfulness.

Elohim answers the question, Who is God in relation to the universe?
Yahweh answers the question, Who is God in relation to His people?

Elohim reveals God as Creator, King, and Judge
(Genesis 1:1; Psalm 47:7-8; Ecclesiastes 12:14).

Yahweh reveals God as Redeemer, Shepherd, and Covenant Lord
(Exodus 6:6-7; Psalm 23:1; Isaiah 43:1).

Elohim reminds us that God rules over all nations and all history
(Daniel 4:35; Isaiah 45:18).

Yahweh reminds us that God walks with His people and keeps His promises
(Genesis 15:1; Deuteronomy 7:9; Psalm 105:8).

These names are not meant to be separated. The God who is Elohim is the same God who is Yahweh. The One who created the heavens is the One who redeems sinners. “The LORD he is God; there is none else beside him” (Deuteronomy 4:35).

Why This Matters

Understanding these names deepens both our theology and our worship.

When Scripture uses Elohim, we are called to stand in awe of God’s power.
“Great is our Lord, and of great power” (Psalm 147:5).

When Scripture uses Yahweh, we are called to trust His faithfulness.
“Know therefore that the LORD thy God, he is God, the faithful God” (Deuteronomy 7:9).

Together, these names teach a vital truth:
The God who reigns is the Lord who saves, and the Lord who saves is the God who reigns
(Psalm 96:10; Isaiah 43:11).

He is mighty enough to create the universe, and personal enough to know His people by name (Isaiah 40:28; John 10:14). He is sovereign over all things, yet faithful in every promise. This is the God revealed in Scripture, and this is the God we are called to worship, trust, and follow.

For Further Study

If you would like to explore the names Yahweh and Elohim more deeply, the following passages provide a helpful starting point for personal study, small group discussion, or classroom teaching.

Study Yahweh: The Covenant-Keeping Lord

Exodus 3:1–15 – God reveals His personal name to Moses
Exodus 6:2–8 – Yahweh as Redeemer and promise keeper
Psalm 23 – Yahweh as Shepherd and personal guide
Psalm 103 – Yahweh’s mercy, compassion, and faithfulness
Isaiah 43:1–7 – Yahweh as Creator and Redeemer of Israel
Malachi 3:6 – Yahweh’s unchanging nature

As you read, ask:
How does Yahweh reveal Himself as faithful and personal in these passages?

Study Elohim: The Sovereign Creator and Ruler

Genesis 1:1–31 – Elohim as Creator of all things
Genesis 17:1 – Elohim as Almighty God
Psalm 19:1–6 – Elohim’s glory displayed in creation
Psalm 47 – Elohim as King over all the earth
Daniel 4:34–35 – Elohim’s absolute sovereignty over nations
Isaiah 45:18 – Elohim as Creator with purpose

As you read, ask:
What do these passages teach about God’s power, authority, and rule?

Seeing Both Names Together

Genesis 2:4–9 – LORD God as Creator who walks with man
Psalm 100 – The LORD as God who made us and shepherds us
Isaiah 40:12–31 – The Creator who gives strength to His people
Deuteronomy 6:4–5 – The oneness and exclusivity of the LORD

As you reflect, ask:
How do Yahweh and Elohim together give a fuller picture of who God is?

Personal Reflection

Which name of God do you most often think about in your walk with Him?
Do you find it easier to trust God’s power or God’s presence?
How does understanding both names deepen your worship and obedience?