El Shaddai meaning is one of the most searched and discussed topics among those exploring the Hebrew names of God. In simple terms, El Shaddai is commonly translated as “God Almighty.” However, the depth of this divine name goes far beyond a single translation. It connects to covenant promises, ancient Hebrew linguistics, theological debate, and even modern worship culture.
Understanding the el shaddai meaning requires looking at its original Hebrew form, its first appearance in Genesis 17:1, its use throughout the Old Testament, and the scholarly discussion around the root word Shaddai. When we explore it carefully, we see not only a name that reflects power, but also one that reveals sufficiency, faithfulness, and divine provision.
Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Hebrew Spelling | אֵל שַׁדַּי |
| Transliteration | El Shaddai |
| Strong’s Number | H7706 |
| Primary Meaning | God Almighty |
| Alternate Meaning | The All-Sufficient One |
| First Biblical Appearance | Genesis 17:1 |
| Associated Figures | Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Jacob, Job |
| Key Themes | Covenant, Power, Promise, Omnipotence |
| Greek Equivalent | Pantokrator |
| Latin Equivalent | Omnipotens |
What Does El Shaddai Mean?
At its core, el shaddai meaning is traditionally rendered as “God Almighty.” The word El (אֵל) simply means God in Hebrew. It is one of the most ancient Semitic terms used for deity. The more debated part of the name is Shaddai (שַׁדַּי).
Most English Bibles translate Shaddai as “Almighty,” especially in passages like:
“I am El Shaddai; walk before me faithfully and be blameless.” — Genesis 17:1
However, scholars note that Shaddai may also carry meanings related to:
- Overpowerer
- Destroyer of enemies
- Mountain God (from possible Akkadian root)
- Nourisher or sustainer
Because of this, the meaning of the name Shaddai is not entirely straightforward. Instead, it reflects layers of theological and linguistic depth.
El Shaddai in Hebrew (אֵל שַׁדַּי)
To truly grasp the el shaddai Hebrew meaning, we must look at the original language.
| Hebrew Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| אֵל (El) | God |
| שַׁדַּי (Shaddai) | Almighty / All-Sufficient |
Pronunciation Guide
El Shaddai is pronounced:
El Shah-die
In Hebrew phonetics:
- “El” sounds like ell
- “Shaddai” sounds like shah-DYE
This pronunciation detail is often missing from competitor articles but is valuable for voice search queries such as “how to pronounce el shaddai.”
Strong’s Concordance H7706
In Strong’s Concordance, Shaddai is listed under H7706. It is often defined as:
“The Almighty.”
Yet scholars admit the exact root remains debated.
Genesis 17:1 – The First Appearance of El Shaddai
The first recorded use of El Shaddai occurs in Genesis 17:1. Abraham was ninety-nine years old when God appeared to him and declared:
“I am El Shaddai.”
This moment is pivotal. It is not merely a title. It is a covenant declaration.
Context of Genesis 17
| Element | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Person | Abraham |
| Age | 99 years old |
| Promise | Father of many nations |
| Covenant | Everlasting covenant |
| Outcome | Isaac would be born |
Here, the el shaddai meaning in Genesis 17 is connected to divine power over impossibility. Abraham and Sarah were beyond childbearing age. Yet El Shaddai revealed Himself as the God of the impossible, echoing later verses such as Romans 4:17.
This is where “God Almighty” becomes more than strength. It becomes power to fulfill promises.
How Many Times Is El Shaddai Used in the Bible?
This is a frequently searched long-tail query: how many times is El Shaddai used in the Bible?
The name Shaddai appears approximately 48 times in the Old Testament. Most occurrences are in:
- Genesis
- Exodus
- Job
In fact, the Book of Job uses Shaddai extensively, especially in Job 38–42, where God speaks from the whirlwind.
El Shaddai in the Book of Job
The use of Shaddai in Job emphasizes divine sovereignty. When Job questions suffering, El Shaddai responds with overwhelming demonstrations of power.
“Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?” — Job 38:4
Here, the el shaddai biblical meaning highlights:
- Creative authority
- Sovereignty over nature
- Control over chaos
The divine speeches in Job 38–42 reinforce that Shaddai represents unstoppable authority.
El Shaddai in Exodus and the Patriarchs
In Exodus 6:2–3, God tells Moses:
“I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob as El Shaddai, but by my name Yahweh I did not make myself fully known to them.”
This passage introduces an important theological distinction.
| Name | Emphasis |
|---|---|
| El Shaddai | Power & covenant |
| Yahweh | Personal covenant name |
| Elohim | Creator / Judge |
This leads to an important comparison.
El Shaddai vs Yahweh vs Elohim
A major SEO opportunity competitors miss is comparing divine names.
El Shaddai
Focuses on power and sufficiency.
Yahweh
God’s personal covenant name, revealed to Moses.
Elohim
Title emphasizing Creator and Judge.
The difference between El Shaddai and Yahweh is not contradiction but progression in revelation.
Why Is El Shaddai Translated as “God Almighty”?
The Greek Septuagint translated Shaddai as Pantokrator, meaning “All Powerful.” The Latin Vulgate rendered it as Omnipotens.
These translation traditions influenced modern Bible versions.
However, the Hebrew root debate remains open.
The Hebrew Root Debate – What Does Shaddai Really Mean?
Scholars suggest three main theories.
1. The “Almighty” Interpretation
Traditional understanding. Supported by biblical usage in contexts of power.
2. The “Mountain” Theory
Some suggest a link to the Akkadian word for mountain. This would imply “God of the Mountain,” symbolizing strength and stability.
3. The “Nourishment” Interpretation
The Hebrew word “shad” means breast. Some argue this reflects God as nurturer or provider.
Each theory contributes to a richer understanding of the literal translation of El Shaddai.
Theological Significance of El Shaddai
The name conveys several theological themes:
| Theme | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Omnipotence | Unlimited power |
| Providence | Sustaining care |
| Covenant | Faithful promise |
| Sufficiency | Complete provision |
In Ephesians 3:20–21, the idea of God doing “immeasurably more” echoes Shaddai’s power.
El Shaddai in Jewish and Christian Tradition
In Jewish interpretation, Shaddai appears on mezuzahs and is associated with divine protection.
In Christian theology, El Shaddai reflects:
- God’s omnipotence
- Fulfillment of Old Testament promises
- Divine faithfulness
The el shaddai meaning in Christianity emphasizes redemption history.
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El Shaddai in Modern Culture
The name gained broader cultural recognition through Amy Grant’s 1982 song “El Shaddai.”
While devotional, the song brought awareness of this Hebrew name into mainstream worship.
Case Study: Abraham and the Covenant
Consider Abraham’s story as a case study of the el shaddai meaning spiritually.
At 99 years old, facing biological impossibility, Abraham encountered El Shaddai.
Outcome:
- Isaac born
- Covenant fulfilled
- Nations formed
This demonstrates Shaddai as:
- Promise keeper
- Miracle worker
- Covenant initiator
Frequently Asked Questions About El Shaddai Meaning
What does El Shaddai literally mean?
It literally combines “El” (God) and “Shaddai” (Almighty or All-Sufficient).
Is El Shaddai the same as God Almighty?
Yes, most translations render it as God Almighty.
What is Strong’s number for Shaddai?
H7706.
How many times is Shaddai used?
Approximately 48 times in the Old Testament.
What is the difference between El Shaddai and Yahweh?
El Shaddai emphasizes power. Yahweh emphasizes personal covenant identity.
Summary Table: Key Facts
| Topic | Summary |
|---|---|
| Meaning | God Almighty |
| First Use | Genesis 17:1 |
| Strong’s | H7706 |
| Associated Figures | Abraham, Job, Moses |
| Core Theme | Power & Sufficiency |
Conclusion: What El Shaddai Meaning Reveals About God
The el shaddai meaning ultimately reveals a God who is both powerful and sufficient. He is the One who establishes covenants, fulfills promises, and demonstrates sovereignty over creation.
From Genesis 17:1 to the speeches in Job 38–42, El Shaddai represents divine authority that overcomes impossibility.
Yet beyond strength, this name carries warmth. It speaks of provision, faithfulness, and covenant love.
Understanding El Shaddai deepens our grasp of the richness of the Hebrew names of God. It shows that divine names are not labels. They are revelations.
And in the story of Abraham, Job, and Moses, El Shaddai proves to be not only Almighty—but faithful.
