Start your free trial today to unlock the full library with unlimited and uninterrupted access
Get StartedA Tale of Two Names: Elokim and YHVH (Part 1 of 12)
A Tale Of Two Names: Elokim And YHVH
The Bible uses many names to refer to God, the two most well-known being Elokim and YHVH (an unpronounceable name composed of the Hebrew letters yud-hey-vav-hey). What do these names mean, and why do they appear when they do? This is one of the Bible's greatest mysteries. Perhaps even more mysterious is that we find the highly uncommon "YHVH Elokim" — a combination of these two names — in the Bible's opening pages: in the story of God's creation of the world. Join Rabbi Fohrman for an exploration of what these names mean on their own, what they mean in combination, and how understanding God's names can, perhaps, help us to lead more godly lives.
An earlier version of some of these ideas can be found in the course What is the Meaning of Life?
For more on A Tale of Two Names, be sure to listen to the following lecture series: A Tale of Two Names: Why Were There Days of Creation? and A Tale of Two Names: From The Garden To The Flood.
Rabbi David Fohrman
Founder and Lead Scholar
Gift
Download Transcript
Popular on Aleph Beta
Trending Now
What is Aleph Beta?
Aleph Beta is a unique kind of Torah library. Led by our founder, Rabbi David Fohrman, we are dedicated to high-level, textual Torah learning for adults that is intellectually and spiritually sophisticated, that enlivens your Jewish practice and helps you forge a deeper connection to God. Whether you’ve been learning in yeshiva for years or you’re just beginning your Torah journey, you’re sure to find something meaningful and surprising waiting for you here.
Browse our library of over 1,000 beautifully produced animated videos, podcasts, deep dive courses, and printable guides. Topics include the weekly parsha, Jewish holidays & fast days, laws & mitzvot, prayers, relationships, big philosophical ideas and more. Have something to say at the Shabbos table that will amaze your family and guests and bring deep meaning into their lives.