EL ELYON

0. Introduction

a) In the Old Testament times, a name was not only identification, but an identity as well. Many times a special meaning was attached to the name. Names had, among other purposes, an explanatory purpose (e.g. Nabal, whose name means "fool," is the target of Abigail's explanation to David (1 Samuel 25:25). Throughout Scripture God reveals Himself to us through His names. When we study these names that He reveals to us in the Bible, we will better understand who God really is. The meanings behind God's names reveal the central personality and nature of the One who bears them.

1. Who is God to you?

a) Is He your Most High God, All sufficient One, Master, Lord of Peace, the Lord Who Will Provide? Is He your Father? We must be careful not to make God into an "it" or a "thing" to which we pray. He is our Jehovah Raah, the Lord our Shepherd. God knows us by our name, shouldn't we know Him by His?

2. Names of God

a) El Elyon (The Most High God).

b) Variant spellings: None.

3. Meaning

a) El is another name that is translated as "God" and can be used in conjunction with other words to designate various aspects of God's character. Elyon literally means "Most High" and is used both adjectivally and substantively throughout the Old Testament. It expresses the extreme sovereignty and majesty of God and His highest preeminence. When the two words are combined - El Elyon - it can be translated as "the most exalted God." (Psalms 57:2).

4. Use in the Bible

a) In the Old Testament El Elyon occurs 28 times. It occurs 19 times in Psalms. El Elyon is first used in Genesis 14:18.

5. Scripture References

a) Genesis 14:18; 14:19; 14:20; 14:22.

b) Psalms 57:2; 78:35.