Hebrew Names for God

Lord (Adonai) - אָדוֹן, ὁ κύριoς

And he said, "If now I have found favour in your sight, O Lord, let my Lord go among us, for we are a stiff-necked people; pardon our iniquity and our sin, and take us for your inheritance (Exodus 34:9)

"O, Lord GOD, you have begun to show me your greatness and strength. (What god in heaven or earth can rival your works and mighty deeds?)” (Deuteronomy 3:24)

Adonai tells us that our God is Lord and Master, and he is worthy to be served.

God had delivered His people from Egypt through His servant Moses. The Pharaoh, a stubborn man if there ever was one, has finally relented after ten plagues struck his people, culminating in the death of his son. But his heart never really softened, and now he repents of his decision. He leads his army to bring the slaves back. The Hebrew children cry out in terror. They complain to Moses that he has brought them into the desert to die. Slavery is better than death.

When Moses answers them to say God will fight for them, he doesn’t use a word for God that emphasises His might and strength. He tells them their Master God will fight their fight. Why would Moses have chosen that word for God?

I believe he is telling this fearful and grumbling mob that it is time to be quiet and obedient to their Master. God is their Deliverer, but He is their Lord. Hush. God has freed you from an evil master, so now is the time to serve a kind, gracious, loving Master God with obedience.

It is wonderful to be reassured with God’s might and power, but sometimes it is good to simply trust our Lord. El Shaddai tells us our God is all-sufficient. Adonai tells us He is our Lord and to be can be trusted.

A Jewish Morning Prayer

I thank You, Adonai, for the rest You have given me through the night and for the breath that renews my body and spirit. May I renew my soul with faith in You, Source of all Healing. Blessed are You, Adonai our God, Ruler of the Universe, Who renews daily the work of creation. Amen