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Names of God in Judaism facts for kids

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Tehilim scroll
This old scroll shows the special four-letter name of God.
Shefa Tal
This book explains a special prayer, showing the name Adonai.
Polyglot Psalter
An old book with the Psalms in Hebrew and Latin.

In Judaism, people use many different names for God. These names help them understand different ways God acts in the world. The most important name is called the Tetragrammaton. This big word simply means "Four-lettered word." It is written as YHVH, YHWH, or in Hebrew letters as י - ה ו - ה.

Jewish people usually do not say this special name out loud. Instead, they often say Adonai, which means "My Lord." Some Jews only use Adonai during prayers. Most of the time, they refer to God as Hashem. This word means "The Name." It is a way to show respect for God's main name. Jewish people also avoid erasing the Tetragrammaton. Because of this, they rarely write it down. You will mostly find it in their most holy books, like the Torah.

Other Names for God

Besides the main names, there are other important names for God in Judaism. Each name helps to describe a different quality or role of God.

  • Elohim: This name shows God as the powerful creator of the world.
  • El: This is a shorter name for God, meaning "Mighty One."
  • Shaddai: This name often means "Almighty" or "All-Sufficient."
  • Tzeva-ot: This name means "Lord of Hosts" or "Lord of Armies." It shows God's power over everything.
  • ‘Elyon: This name means "Most High." It highlights God's supreme power.
  • Ehyeh-Asher-Ehyeh: This special name means "I Will Be What I Will Be." God used this name when speaking to Moses.

When observant Jews say these names, they often change the pronunciation slightly. For example, they might say "Elokim" instead of "Elohim." This is another way to show respect for God's holiness. Some names, like Shalom (meaning "Peace"), are said as they are written. However, when written, one letter might be left out to show respect.

Images for kids

  • Tetragrammaton Sefardi

    The Hebrew name of God in an old Jewish book from 1385.

  • Tetragrammaton benediction

    The four-letter name of God on ancient silver scrolls.

  • Holešov, židovský hřbitov

    A Bible verse on a synagogue in the Czech Republic. It says: "Hashem kills and makes alive."

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Nombres de Dios en el judaísmo para niños

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Names of God in Judaism Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.