Names for God (El Shaddai)

Another name for God, used only 7 times in the Hebrew Bible is the name El Shaddai.

‘El’ is a general term for a god and this word is usually connected with an adjective or verb describing the God of Israel and his character. The word ‘Shaddai’ can have a couple meanings. It is most generally translated as mighty, or powerful which is where we get the term God Almighty. However, this word may have derived from the Hebrew word ‘shad’ which means “breast”. This gives the notion that God is one that nourishes, provides, and sustains our very existence. It gives a more maternal side to the rough but protective translation of an all powerful God. It is a name that describes God’s character as our protector and provider.