The Name (Hashem)

What is the real name of the God of Israel? And Am I allowed to say it out loud and in public?

About the journey my family embark few years back, probably the most controversial topic among all the main followers of Yahweh (YHWH) is His name. As I respect the people that wants to keep His name holy by not using it, I hope I get the same respect because from my understanding we are, not just to call upon Hashem by His name, but we might even be required to do so.

There is a heated debate among proponents of Judaism, Christianity, and Messianic belief, often leading to division and hostility on this topic. Sadly, the arguments can become so intense that we attack one another, forgetting the love we are called to demonstrate as the body of Messiah. To prevent non-believers from witnessing this lack of unity, I may choose to restrict comments on this post.

Why Call Upon the Name of Yahweh?

Why do I emphasize calling upon the name Yahweh rather than using generic titles such as Adonai, the LORD, Elohim, GOD, or Jehovah? The reason is simple—Yahweh Himself commanded us to do so. In fact, this may have been the first commandment given to Israel as a nation.

The Importance of Biblical Hebrew

In my journey to understand Scripture, I realized that learning at least some Biblical Hebrew is essential. Through my research, I discovered key differences between Biblical Hebrew and Modern Hebrew, which help explain the complexity of the language and the difficulties in translating the Bible comprehensively into other languages.

The Debate Over “Vav” or “Waw”

Among all linguistic differences, one of the most controversial topics is the pronunciation of the sixth letter of the Hebrew alphabet—some say “vav,” while others argue for “waw,” depending on which school of thought one follows.

Though I am not a Hebrew language scholar, nor do I claim to be, my understanding is that in ancient Biblical Hebrew, the sixth consonant was pronounced “waw”, whereas in modern Hebrew, it is pronounced “vav.”

The Pronunciation of the Name of Elohim

Some argue that in the Proto-Sinaitic script, which is believed to be the root of Hebrew and other Semitic languages, the letter “waw” did not exist. Based on this, proponents suggest that the name of Elohim should be pronounced “Yehovah”, which is translated in English and Spanish as “Jehovah.”

One of the most notable proponents of this pronunciation is Nehemiah Gordon. In his discussions, particularly with Nate Petroski, he examines the possibility of “Yahuah” being a viable pronunciation—though Nehemiah himself does not fully agree with that stance.

There are many who firmly believe that the name of Elohim is Yahuah, which is pronounced similarly to Yahooah or Yahwah. This school of thought argues that there is no “waw” in the Hebrew language and that the sixth consonant of the Hebrew alphabet should be pronounced as a short “u”—similar to its sound in Spanish or the “oo” in the English word “boot.”

Another controversy arises from the first syllable of the Name. Some argue that the sound is more like “Yeh” rather than “Yah,” based on the pronunciation of the name Jesus in its original language—“Yeshua.” Others, however, believe that the true pronunciation of “Yeshua” should be “Yahushua” or “Yahshua.”

Let me clarify—I deeply respect these differing opinions, as each presents solid evidence to support their claims. I also recognize and appreciate the depth of knowledge these scholars possess; many hold academic degrees far beyond my expertise. I am grateful for the wisdom they share, even though I do not always agree with every point.

Despite our differences, much of the information they provide is invaluable in my research. For instance, Nehemiah Gordon’s wife, a software developer, leads a ministry called Devorah’s Date Tree, which helps track the Biblical Calendar based on the Torah. Additionally, many of Nehemiah’s insights are highly valuable, though I do not agree with everything.

So, tell me, which school of thought is correct?

My friend, this is where you must choose and commit to one version. The truth is, even Rabbis themselves seem to struggle with certainty on this matter. The debates are often between Hebrew language scholars, and depending on which side you align with, you risk being attacked, scorned, or even threatened. Both sides hurl insults, curses, and accusations—each claiming the other to be pagan.

And this, sadly, is part of the reason many non-believers—those desperately seeking a Savior—hesitate to embrace the incredible nation Yah has established. First, He set apart the Jews, and then He grafted in the Gentiles to be part of His people. Yet division and hostility discourage those who might otherwise come in faith.

So, the real question you should ask me is…

Why did you choose to call Hashem by the name Yahweh?

Why Do I Favor This Pronunciation?

The short answer is because it aligns with what we know about Elohim. But first, let me share the key pieces of evidence that support this position.

Some time ago, I came across a video from the Expedition Bible YouTube channel. I deeply appreciate Joe Kramer and his love for Scripture, which has inspired his search for archaeological evidence that supports it.

The Earliest Inscriptions of Yahweh

In this video, Joe presents evidence of the oldest known inscription of the name Yahweh, discovered at the time of the video’s production. This inscription was written in Egyptian hieroglyphs, clearly spelling out the name Yahweh.

A few years after the video was recorded, another inscription was discovered—this time in Proto-Sinaitic script. Scholars believe it was likely inscribed by Israelites at Mount Ebal, on the side where curses were pronounced, while blessings were spoken from the opposite side—before entering the Promised Land with Yahoshua (Joshua).

The Discovery of the Joshua’s Altar.

Linguistic Evidence and Script Origins

Both of these inscriptions refer to the God of Israel as Yahweh or Yah, based on early Semitic language traditions. A non-religious study, “Revisiting the Encoding of the Proto-Sinaitic in Unicode,” supports this understanding, showing that most symbols of the Proto-Sinaitic script originated from Egyptian hieroglyphs. Notably, all references to the sixth letter of the alphabet in this ancient script are “waw,” “u,” or “o”—never “vav.”

These findings date back to the Egyptian Middle Kingdom, long before the Masoretic Text, which serves as the authoritative Hebrew Bible today but was developed much later—from the 7th to 11th century B.C.

The Role of the Masoretic Text and Vocalization

If you’ve studied Proto-Sinaitic script, you may have noticed that vowels did not exist—nor did the niqqud, the system of vocalization introduced by the Masoretes. This system, known as the Masoretic Vocalization System, was developed to restore correct pronunciation after Hebrew had been heavily influenced by the languages of nations that dominated Israel during exile.

However, the Masoretic Text is not the only preserved Hebrew Bible manuscript. Other notable sources include:

• The Samaritans
• The Dead Sea Scroll Qumran Community
• The Proto-Rabbinic Movement

Of these, the Dead Sea Scrolls have gained recent attention for containing the earliest and most complete collection of the Hebrew Bible—excluding the book of Esther.

The Suppression of Yahweh’s Name

The Masoretic Text also appears to be where the practice of avoiding the pronunciation of Yahweh’s name originated. In synagogues, niqqud markings were used to instruct priests not to pronounce Yahweh’s name but instead substitute it with Adonai, Elohim, or Hashem.

The Vav vs. Waw Debate

Scholars who argue for spelling YHWH as YHVH or Yehovah often cite these instances in the Masoretic Text as evidence that the sixth Hebrew consonant is “vav,” not “waw.” They claim that the correct niqqud for the name is “a,” “o,” “a”, based on how it appears in Masoretic manuscripts.

But we must put this into perspective:

• Even the Septuagint (LXX) predates the Masoretic Text.
• The Dead Sea Scrolls contain the oldest Hebrew writings known today.
• The Dead Sea Scroll Hebrew texts do not contain niqqud—instead, they use Plene Spelling where “yod,” “waw,” and “aleph” indicate vowel sounds without explicit markings.

Plene spelling suggests pronunciation but does not provide a full vocalization system like the niqqud.

For me, this fact overshadows any Hebrew linguistic research that relies on niqqud, since niqqud did not exist in ancient Biblical times. Hebrew Literacy explains that the pronunciation of consonants in Biblical Hebrew was based on natural mouth movements when forming specific sounds.

The Torah and Yahweh’s Name

The most compelling reason I give weight to YHWH over YHVH is found in the Torah, particularly in Wayyiqra (Leviticus). Yahweh is intentional with His commandments, using them to reveal His character, purpose, and will.

When studying the rituals for purification, you’ll notice a crucial pattern—one that, once seen, cannot be ignored: All instructions for spiritual cleansing involve the removal of anything representing death. It is impossible to approach Yahweh in a state that reflects imperfection, which is the consequence of sin.

To stand in the presence of the Eternal while remaining a finite being would be catastrophic. Not because Yahweh is eager to destroy, but because finite life fades into eternity. This is why Yahweh commanded Israel not to come before Him unclean—not as a punishment, but out of deep love and protection. And He still loves His people today.

The Breath and the Name of Yahweh

So, what does this have to do with Yahweh’s name? Meditate on this deeply. Yahweh cannot accept impurity in His presence.

In Hebrew, some consonants are considered weak, meaning they require an interruption in breath to be pronounced. These include “bait,” “mem,” “pe,” and in modern Hebrew, “vav.” These letters symbolize an interruption of air—a representation of death.

For this reason, I cannot accept that Yahweh’s name contains a weak consonant.

Some even propose that the Tetragrammaton—YHWH—is pronounced as a deep, natural breath.

For me, this settles the debate between waw vs. vav. Now, all that remains is to choose between Yahweh and Yahuah.

So, which one is it? Yahweh or Yahuah?

This is where learning Hebrew becomes especially valuable, as it helps in understanding consonant pronunciation and navigating grammatical complexities. If “Yahuah” is the most probable pronunciation, I find it more natural to syllabify it as “Yah•uah” rather than “Ya•Hu•Ah.” This instinct leads me to favor “Yah•weh,” as I find it to be the most intuitive pronunciation.

Actually, I do not consider “Yahuah” to be an unlikely pronunciation, as long as it is spoken as “Yah•uah,” which is quite similar to “Yah•weh” when you think about it.

Ultimately, choosing whether to say “Yahuah” or “Yahweh” is a matter of personal preference and perspective.

Now, this begs the question.

Am I allowed to pronounce His name, or should I keep it Holy?

I’m glad you asked. Again, this reflects my personal opinion, and I respect others’ choices not to mention Yahweh’s name out of reverence. From my perspective, it is the sincere desire of our Lord Yahweh, Yahweh Adonai, for us to approach Him and call upon His name. Additionally, this is supported by a commandment—likely the fundamental national commandment—that Yahweh gave to Moses for the people of Israel.

See, there

…This is My name forever, and this is My memorial-name from generation to generation.

Moshe unwaveringly declared the name of Yahweh, never hesitating nor attempting to hinder others from doing the same. Moreover, after revealing the Torah at Mount Sinai, Yahweh addressed Israel directly, proclaiming:

Let’s review the key points. Yahweh proclaimed: “This is My everlasting name, and this is how I should be remembered from generation to generation.” He also commanded: “Do not mention the names of other gods, nor let their names be spoken from your mouth.” Reflecting on this, it becomes clear that we have often deviated from His instruction. Instead of using His true name, we frequently employ titles or names associated with other deities—some of which are linked to gods who bring chaos and destruction in the Hebrew Bible.

---

Pagan gods in the Hebrew Bible

I understand that this may not be your primary intention, but even with good intentions, we have seen throughout the Tanakh what can happen when actions are carried out outside of Yahweh’s will. Recall the story of Sarah and her servant?

Yahweh has graciously given us His name. Moreover, how many times have we read in the Tanakh that Yahweh invites us to call upon His name? Let’s examine a list, shall we?

Am I taking Hashem in Vain?

The confusion often stems from interpreting the Fourth Commandment as if its primary focus is merely the use of God’s name. However, its significance runs much deeper than simply mentioning or pronouncing the name.

The name of Yahweh was dishonored, not because Israel cursed or used the name as a profanity, but because they failed to obey Yahweh’s instructions. Their disobedience led to their scattering among the nations. When the nations see Israel dispersed and humbled, they assume that their Elohim is powerless or even dead. As a result, the people of the Israel are bearing Yahweh’s name in vain, because instead of revealing His power, Israel’s actions reflect shame and the consequences of their sin.

Yeshua Ha’Mashiach also addressed this topic when He spoke to His disciples.

When we fail to love one another as brothers and sisters in Messiah and allow ourselves to be divided by differences of opinion, we are acting in direct opposition to what Yeshua has commanded. In doing so, we tarnish the name of Yahweh in vain. Instead of bearing His name with honor and glory, we find ourselves wandering in the wilderness, burdened by shame rather than reflecting His divine glory.

In my humble opinion, we are called to invoke the name of Yahweh—by His name—and to do so with reverence and respect. If we have used His name in an insulting or careless manner, it is essential to repent (teshuva), humble ourselves before Yahweh, and accept the forgiveness He offers through His Son, Yeshua the Messiah (Ha’Mashiach). By doing so, He can restore us to unity and love. This is the true way to honor and carry the divine name of Yahweh, together with His Son, Yeshua—to do so with dignity, reverence, and glory, rather than in a manner that is vain, disrespectful, or shameful.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I believe we should call our Father by His name, as we call Yeshua by His name.

I hope you understand that my intention is not to prove that Yahweh is the correct name of Elohim, but rather that this is what I feel in my heart from His Spirit. It doesn’t offend me if you choose to refer to Him as Yehovah, Yahuah, Adonai, Elohim, Hashem, God, or Jehovah. I recognize that your goal is to seek Him and to call upon His name with reverence and respect. Similarly, I hope you can see that I am approaching Him in the same spirit.

We can concur on this: our shared goal is to honor Elohim. I particularly desire to honor Yahweh. Let us embrace our differences with love and open hearts, allowing others to witness the power bestowed upon us through Yeshua’s salvation.

Shalom.