Old Testament
Exodus 6:3
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I appeared to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob as God Almighty, but I did not reveal myself to them by my name, the LORD.
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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.
What Exodus 6:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God is sharing a significant truth about His identity. He tells us that He revealed Himself to the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—as God Almighty, a title that emphasizes His power and authority. However, He notes that they did not know Him by the name 'LORD.' This name represents a deeper, more personal relationship. While the patriarchs experienced God's might, they lacked the full understanding of His character and promises. This moment highlights the unfolding nature of God's revelation to humanity. It shows that God desires to be known more intimately, and that His relationship with us can grow over time. Just as He revealed more of Himself to the Israelites, He invites us to discover more about Him in our own lives. This passage encourages us to seek a deeper connection with God, understanding that He is both powerful and personal, ready to reveal more of Himself to us as we grow in faith and trust in Him. Our journey with God is one of continual discovery and relationship.
How to apply Exodus 6:3 to your life
Consider how you view your relationship with God. Are you experiencing Him as a distant power, or are you seeking a more personal connection? Take time to pray and ask God to reveal more of Himself to you. Engage with scripture to deepen your understanding of His character and promises. Trust that He desires to know you intimately and personally, just as He did with the patriarchs.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: God Renews His Promise (Exodus 6:1–13)
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Moses
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying Exodus 6:3
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At a Glance — the Book of Exodus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 6:3 mean?
Exodus 6:3 explains that God revealed Himself to the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—as 'God Almighty,' but they did not know Him by the name 'LORD.' This indicates that while they experienced His power, they lacked a deeper understanding of His personal nature.
What is the significance of the name 'LORD' in Exodus 6:3?
In Exodus 6:3, the name 'LORD' signifies a more personal and relational aspect of God. It shows that God desires to be known intimately, beyond just His power, highlighting the evolving nature of His revelation to humanity.
What does 'God Almighty' refer to in Exodus 6:3?
'God Almighty' in Exodus 6:3 refers to God's supreme power and authority. It emphasizes His ability to fulfill promises and perform miracles, but it contrasts with the more personal name 'LORD' that reveals His desire for a closer relationship.
How does Exodus 6:3 relate to my relationship with God?
Exodus 6:3 encourages individuals to seek a deeper connection with God. It suggests that just as God revealed more of Himself to the patriarchs, He invites us to explore and grow in our understanding of Him in our own lives.
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