Jehovah: A Common Misunderstanding in Biblical Translations

John 1 and Revelation 22:5 offer different renderings for the identity of the light in the Bible. This passage prompts a discussion on the usage of names for God in various translations, particularly in the context of the Jehovah's Witnesses and the Nameist doctrine.

The Identity of God in Scripture

It is essential to understand that "God" and "Lord" in the Bible are titles, not names. These titles reflect the honor and glory attributed to the divine being, rather than a specific name. The term "Jehovah" is a transliteration of the Hebrew name YHWH (or Yehovah), which is often rendered as "LORD" in English translations to avoid reverence.

Usage in Biblical Translations

In the King James Version, the name "Jehovah" appears 7 times. However, this usage is typically rendered as "LORD" in capital letters to distinguish it from other titles such as "God". This demonstrates that "Jehovah" is a popular and accepted rendering of God's proper name in English translations.

The Meaning of Jehovah

YHWH, the personal name of God as revealed to Moses, is believed to have been pronounced "Yahweh" by most biblical scholars. The name "Jehovah" originated from the Latin translation of YHWH, with the "a" sound preserved from the ancient Hebrew pronunciation. Over time, this name was transformed into the English "Jehovah".

Biblical References and Scholars' Consensus

The name "Jehovah" is not unique to a particular translation or religious group. Isa 42:8 of the Restoration of the Holy Name Bible affirms, “I am Jehovah YHWH. That is my name; I give my glory to no one else, Nor my praise to carved images.” Ex 3:15 of the RJHB (Revised Holman Christian Standard Bible) similarly states, “15I am Jehovah YHWH. That is my name. I give my glory to no one else, and I offer my praise to no carved image.”

Proof and Acceptance

Mark 12:28–29 of the Revised Holman Christian Standard Bible (RHNB) also provides evidence: “2829 Jesus answered, ‘The first is, lsquo;Hear, O Israel, the LORD our God, the LORD is one. You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your ;rsquo;rsquo;rsquo;

Bible scholars today widely accept "Jehovah" as a valid and proper rendition of God's name in English. Just as the name "John" did not exist in the English language before the 5th century but is now widely accepted, "Jehovah" is similarly recognized.

Conclusion

It is important to recognize that variations in translation, such as the use of "Jehovah" versus "Lord" or "God," do not indicate disagreement among scholars or differing beliefs. Each rendering serves a purpose, reflecting the reverence and respect accorded to the divine. The name "Jehovah" is just one of several ways to represent God's personal name in different linguistic contexts and traditions. Readers are free to interpret these variations as they see fit.