אֵל אֱלֹהֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל

El-Elohi-Jisrael, the title given to a consecrated spot by Jacob

Definition

This phrase is a compound name meaning 'God, the God of Israel.' It was given by Jacob to an altar he built at Shechem after his family purified themselves of foreign gods (Genesis 33:20). The name functions as a declaration and a memorial, identifying the specific God whom Jacob worships—the God who revealed Himself personally to the patriarch and changed his name to Israel. It signifies a location consecrated to the covenant God of the patriarchs, distinguishing Him from the local deities of Canaan.

Biblical Usage

This phrase is used only once in the Old Testament, in Genesis 33:20. It is used in a narrative context to mark a significant spiritual milestone. After Jacob's reconciliation with Esau and his safe return to Canaan, he purchases land and erects an altar, naming it with this title. This act formally establishes his worship and allegiance to the God who had protected him, in contrast to the household idols his family had just discarded (Genesis 35:2-4).

Etymology

The phrase is a combination of three elements: 'Êl (H410), a general term for 'god' or 'mighty one'; 'Elohêy, the construct (possessive) form of 'Elohim (H430), meaning 'God of'; and Yisra'el (H3478), the name given to Jacob meaning 'he strives with God.' The full construction 'El 'Elohêy Yisra'el' poetically emphasizes the personal and national covenant relationship: the Mighty One is specifically the God of Israel.

Semantic Range

This name is theologically significant as a landmark of personal and corporate commitment. It marks Jacob's transition from a man wrestling for blessing (Genesis 32:28) to one publicly worshipping the source of that blessing. It affirms the particularity of Yahweh as the God of a chosen people, establishing a place of worship in the promised land. Understanding this Hebrew name enriches reading by highlighting moments of decisive dedication and the importance of naming in Israel's testimony to their God.

In the ancient Near East, naming an altar was a common practice to commemorate a divine encounter or attribute. By naming this altar 'God, the God of Israel,' Jacob was not only giving thanks but also making a public, territorial claim about which deity was sovereign in that place. It served as a witness to his household and the surrounding Canaanite peoples, differentiating his faith from local polytheism.

Yahweh (YHWH, H3068) — The personal covenant name of God, more specific than the titular 'Êl. | 'El Shaddai (H410, H7706) — Another name for God revealed to the patriarchs, emphasizing His power and sufficiency.

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