Exodus 6:3
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 6:3
3 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.
Chapter Context
Exodus 6 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of creation, obedience, covenant. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 6:3
3 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.
Analysis
God's statement 'I appeared... by the name of God Almighty' (אֵל שַׁדַּי, El Shaddai) but 'by my name JEHOVAH was I not known to them' indicates the patriarchs didn't experience YHWH's full meaning—covenant faithfulness demonstrated through redemption. Names in Hebrew thought communicate nature and character, not mere labels.
Historical Context
El Shaddai (God Almighty) emphasized God's power to fulfill promises. The patriarchs received promises but died before fulfillment. The Exodus generation will witness what Abraham only believed.
Reflection
- How does your understanding of God deepen through witnessing His actions?
- What promises has God made that you wait to see fulfilled?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H410 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: Exodus 3:14, Genesis 17:1, 35:11, 48:3, Psalms 68:4, Isaiah 44:6
- References Abraham: John 8:58
- Parallel theme: Psalms 83:18, Isaiah 42:8, Revelation 1:4