Why doesn't Christanity use God's name?

[Bustem' Down]

I know he has one, but why isn't it used?

 

[SamSpade]

I know he has one, but why isn't it used?

How do you spell it - in *Greek*?

 

[SamSpade]

I only say that, because, the NT doesn't make much mention of it.

There's always been a 'thing' among the Jews, and in Christianity, to sparingly use his 'name' (which in reality, is not his name but more of a descriptor). Even in translations, such as the King James, his name will be replaced by "the LORD" (in small caps). Jews today will even *write* "G-d" rather than frivolously use the name of God, in lieu of the command not to use his name in vain.

 

[Tonio]

This is from the introduction to the Revised Standard Version -- in Judaism, the "Divine Name" of God was Yahweh. But that word was considered too sacred to be even pronounced, so during readings the Jews and early Christians would say "The Lord" instead. The RSV makes this valid point--if you believe in only one God, then why would God even need a name?

 

[SamSpade]

The RSV makes this valid point--if you believe in only one God, then why would God even need a name?

Exactly. Even "I AM", as names go, only *describes* God, as being the "One Who Is Eternal". It's not really a name anymore than "She Who Must Be Obeyed" is.

 

[Railroad]

I'm comfortable with "God." Since there is only one true God, I have no trouble knowing whom I'm talking about. Not so in the case of people - you have to identify which person you're talking about, because there are so many of us!

 

[2ndAmendment]

The Hebrew transliteration of Y'howah is used in English translations of the name of God and is YHWH. The Jews think of God's name as being too holy to write out.

 

[Qpid]

Jehovah.....
Jah....

Actually I find that it is being used more today than back when I was growing up.

It is his name, why not call him by it??

 

[2ndAmendment]

Jehovah.....
Jah....

Actually I find that it is being used more today than back when I was growing up.

It is his name, why not call him by it??

There is no "J" in Hewbrew, hence, YHWH. Put the vowels into it and you get Y'howah. No "e" in Hebew either but an impied short "e" with the "Y" as I understand it. I am no expert in Hebrew.