The Distinctive Profile of Yhwh

Abstract

The plurality of the Bible’s speaking about Yhwh raises questions whether they all are of the same value or whether some are more important. Paying attention to their positions, significance, and repeated focal points leads to perceive that being good, merciful, and just marks Yhwh’s essence. This helps, too, to understand even seemingly contrasting statements as subordinate, limited in their scope, and dependent on the respective context. Overall, Yhwh appears as vivid, open, also accepting suffering, yet at the same time strong and reliable in his character, oriented towards encompassing salvation. Therefore, an appropriate biblical hermeneutic has to give priority to divine goodness, mercy, and justice against opposing aspects, diminishing the latters’ weight due to their restricted valence.