JEHOVAH-RAPHA

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) Jehovah Rapha (The Lord Who Heals).

b) Variant spellings: Jehovah-Rophe; Jehovah Rophecha; Jehovah Raphah.

3. Meaning

a) Jehovah is translated as "The Existing One" or "Lord." The chief meaning of Jehovah is derived from the Hebrew word Havah meaning "to be" or "to exist." It also suggests "to become" or specifically "to become known" - this denotes a God who reveals Himself unceasingly. Rapha (râpâ') means "to restore", "to heal" or "to make healthful" in Hebrew. When the two words are combined - Jehovah Rapha - it can be translated as "Jehovah Who Heals." (Jeremiah 30:17; 3:22; Isaiah 30:26; 61:1; Psalms 103:3). Jehovah is the Great Physician who heals the physical and emotional needs of His people.

4. Use in the Bible

a) In the Old Testament Jehovah-Rapha (The Lord that Heals) is used in Exodus 15:26.

5. Scripture References

a)  Exodus 15:26.