So often, our English translation, by using the solitary word God, fails to capture the descriptive richness of the Hebrew Language. The first Hebrew rendition we explore is Elohim used more than 2000 times in Hebrew Bible for God. Elohim comes from the abbreviated name, El, which seems to have a root meaning “to be strong” or “preeminent.” This word is related to similar words for deity found throughout almost all Semitic languages.
The basic meaning is probably “Mighty” or “Almighty.” Some understand the relationship between El and Elohim to be that Elohim is the plural form of El.
So, Elohim is the Hebrew word for God that appears in the very first sentence of the Bible. We remember that he is the one who began it all. This ancient name for God contains the idea of God's creative power as well as his authority and sovereignty.
We can trace this understanding in Psalm 18:21 where David says “For who is God besides the LORD? And who is the Rock except our God?” The names El and Elohim set the God of Israel in stark contrast with the false gods of other nations, proclaiming them counterfeit and stating that he is the one true God. El or Elohim, “the one true God,” declares that our world be-longs to him. We do well to honour him in all that we do and say.
A modern hymn from Hillsong has the verse:
He is Almighty God
Elohim
Maker of the earth
He is the Lord of hosts
Heaven’s King
God of endless worth
His kingdom stands above
Every power
Every living soul
His love is like the sun
Ever true
Shining over all
Prayer
Elohim, Mighty One, you made everything out of nothing, imposed order on chaos, gave birth to beauty, and called it all good. Help me to know you as the one true God who created everything and everyone, the one who has placed me on the earth for a purpose—to magnify your name. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment