Intro: The Meaning of Yahweh in Exodus 6
In Exodus 6, God reveals the meaning of His covenant name, Yahweh, to Moses and Aaron. The Lord had made promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, but now He was declaring Himself as Yahweh—the God who redeems and fulfills His word with power. This chapter is a turning point in the story of deliverance, showing that God’s covenant is not only spoken but enacted. For the full account, you can read the Exodus 6 (KJV) scripture here.
The Meaning of Jehovah (Yahweh) Revealed to Moses and Aaron
One of the most powerful declarations in the Bible is found in Exodus 6:2–3 (KJV):
“And God spake unto Moses, and said unto him, I am the LORD: And I appeared unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, by the name of God Almighty, but by my name JEHOVAH was I not known to them.”
This verse highlights a profound shift. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob knew God as El Shaddai (God Almighty), but now Israel would know Him as Yahweh (Jehovah)—the covenant-keeping Redeemer. The meaning of Yahweh signifies that His promises are not just words but guaranteed actions of deliverance.
The Covenant Name and the Covenant Promise
God attaches His covenant name to a series of promises in Exodus 6:6–8 (KJV):
“I am the LORD, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will rid you out of their bondage, and I will redeem you with a stretched out arm, and with great judgments. And I will take you to me for a people, and I will be to you a God: and ye shall know that I am the LORD your God, which bringeth you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians. And I will bring you in unto the land, concerning the which I did swear to give it to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob; and I will give it you for an heritage: I am the LORD.”
Here the meaning of Yahweh is tied to redemption, freedom, and inheritance. This is more than deliverance from slavery; it is God revealing Himself as the faithful covenant-keeper who acts on behalf of His people.
Israel’s Discouragement and God’s Faithfulness
Despite these promises, Exodus records that the people “hearkened not unto Moses for anguish of spirit, and for cruel bondage” (Exodus 6:9). Their pain clouded their ability to believe. Yet the meaning of Yahweh reminds us that His promises do not depend on our strength but on His faithfulness. Even when Israel was too broken to hope, Yahweh (Jehovah) was moving to redeem them.
Moses’ Perseverance
Moses, though often hesitant, pressed forward in obedience. The New Testament reflects on this faith in Hebrews 11:27:
“By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible.”
This is the essence of trusting Yahweh—believing in the unseen God who reveals Himself through His covenant name and mighty works.
Lessons from the Meaning of Yahweh in Exodus 6
- The meaning of Yahweh is covenant faithfulness – His promises never fail.
- The meaning of Jehovah reveals His power to redeem – Deliverance is His work, not ours.
- Yahweh sustains faith – Even when we are discouraged, His word stands firm.
- Yahweh’s (Jehovah’s) name is personal – It reveals His relationship with His people.
Final Thoughts
Exodus 6 is where God reveals the meaning of Yahweh, tying His covenant name to redemption and deliverance. This truth encouraged Moses and Aaron, and it still encourages us today. No matter how heavy the burdens of life become, Yahweh (Jehovah) is the faithful Redeemer who keeps His word.
For more context, visit our Exodus Chapters 1-6 summary hub to explore the larger story of God’s covenant and deliverance.