------------------------------------------------------- **Cross Reference**: #theology, #Christian_identity, #Gods_grace, #divine_attributes, #scriptural_symbols ## [[Metaphorical Names]] of [[God]] in Scripture Scripture often uses [[metaphorical names]] for [[God]] to highlight specific aspects of His character or His relationship with humanity. These metaphors utilize imagery drawn from the created world to help us better understand who [[God]] is and how He interacts with us. ### The Difference Between Literal and Metaphorical Names It’s important to distinguish these metaphorical names from other literal titles for [[God]] that directly describe His roles. For example, [[God]] is literally called “[Warrior]” ([Zephaniah 3:17](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Zephaniah+3.17&version=AMP)), because He fights for His people; “[Judge]” ([Genesis 18:25](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+18.25&version=AMP)), because He presides over [[justice]]; and “[King]” ([Psalm 74:12](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+74.12&version=AMP)), because He reigns over His creation. Similarly, [[God]]’s personal name is [[YHWH]] ([[Yahweh]]; [Isaiah 42:8](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+42.8&version=AMP)), which reveals His essence as “I AM.” These differ from the metaphorical names that rely on symbolic imagery. ### Emphasizing [[God]] as the Source and Sustainer Some metaphorical names emphasize [[God]]’s role as the origin and sustainer of all things. - **[[Potter]]**: This metaphor first appears in [[Isaiah]], where [[God]]’s sovereignty over His creation is compared to a potter’s control over clay: *“But now, O LORD, You are our Father; We are the clay, and You our [[potter]]”* ([Isaiah 64:8](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+64.8&version=AMP)). This image is later reiterated by [[Jeremiah]] and [[Paul]] ([Jeremiah 18:6](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+18.6&version=AMP); [Romans 9:21](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+9.21&version=AMP)) to convey that [[God]], as the [[Creator]], has complete rights over His creation. - **[[Vine]]**: In [John 15:1-5](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+15.1-5&version=AMP), [[Jesus Christ]] describes Himself as the “true [[vine]]” and His followers as the branches, illustrating the dependence of believers on [[Christ]]. Similarly, the [[Father]] is the “vinedresser,” emphasizing [[God]]’s role in nurturing and sustaining His people. This metaphor is akin to other names like “[fountain]” ([Jeremiah 2:13](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+2.13&version=AMP); [Jeremiah 17:13](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+17.13&version=AMP)) and “[cup]” ([Psalm 16:5](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+16.5&version=AMP)), each pointing to [[God]] as the source of life and blessing. ### Parental Imagery: [[God]] as a Nurturing Parent Scripture often employs parental imagery to highlight [[God]]’s provision and care. - **[[Mother Bird]]**: In [Deuteronomy 32:11](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy+32.11&version=AMP), [[God]] is depicted as a [[mother bird]] hovering over her young, nurturing and protecting [[Israel]]. This image is echoed throughout the Psalms and prophetic literature ([Psalm 57:1](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+57.1&version=AMP); [Psalm 91:4](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+91.4&version=AMP); [Isaiah 42:14](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+42.14&version=AMP); [Isaiah 49:15](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+49.15&version=AMP); [Isaiah 66:13](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+66.13&version=AMP); [Hosea 11:1-4](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hosea+11.1-4&version=AMP)) and even on [[Jesus]]’s lips: *“How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings”* ([Matthew 23:37](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+23.37&version=AMP)). - **[[Shepherd]]**: One of the most well-known metaphors is [[God]] as a [[shepherd]]. The Psalmist writes, *“The LORD is my [[shepherd]]”* ([Psalm 23:1](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+23.1&version=AMP)), portraying [[God]] as a caring guide who leads His flock. [[Jesus]] also uses this image, calling Himself the *“good [[shepherd]]”* in [John 10:11](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+10.11&version=AMP), a title that captures His role as protector and caretaker of His people. ### [[God]] as Protector and Refuge Other metaphorical names emphasize [[God]]’s strength and protective power. - **[[Rock]]**: The metaphor of [[God]] as a “[rock]” is ubiquitous in Scripture and used to express His strength, immutability, and dependability ([Deuteronomy 32:4](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy+32.4&version=AMP); [Psalm 31:2-3](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+31.2-3&version=AMP); [Psalm 62:2](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+62.2&version=AMP); [Isaiah 26:4](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+26.4&version=AMP); [Isaiah 44:8](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+44.8&version=AMP)). [[Paul]] even identifies [[Christ]] as the rock from which the [[Israelites]] drank ([1 Corinthians 10:4](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+10.4&version=AMP)). This metaphor often appears alongside others like “[fortress]” and “[refuge]” ([2 Samuel 22:2-3](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Samuel+22.2-3&version=AMP); [Psalm 18:2](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+18.2&version=AMP)), emphasizing [[God]]’s unwavering support and safety. - **[[Light]]** and **[[Shade]]**: [[God]] is referred to as “[light]” in several places ([Psalm 27:1](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+27.1&version=AMP); [Psalm 84:11](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+84.11&version=AMP); [Isaiah 60:16](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+60.16&version=AMP); [John 8:12](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+8.12&version=AMP); [Revelation 21:23](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+21.23&version=AMP)) to signify His guidance and truth. In contrast, He is also depicted as “[shade]” or “[shadow]” ([Psalm 91:1](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+91.1&version=AMP); [Psalm 121:5](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+121.5&version=AMP); [Isaiah 25:4](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+25.4&version=AMP)), illustrating the comfort and rest He provides in times of trouble. ### Metaphors of [[Divine Authority]] and [[Sovereignty]] Certain metaphors are used to convey [[God]]’s authority and sovereignty over all creation. - **[[King]]**: [[God]]’s reign is a foundational theme in the Bible, expressed with the title of “[King]” ([Psalm 29:10](https://www .biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+29.10&version=AMP); [Jeremiah 10:10](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+10.10&version=AMP)). He is the “King of [[Israel]]” ([Zephaniah 3:15](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Zephaniah+3.15&version=AMP)), the “King of the nations” ([Revelation 15:3](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+15.3&version=AMP)), and the “King of kings” ([1 Timothy 6:15](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Timothy+6.15&version=AMP)). - **[[Judge]]**: [[God]]’s role as the supreme judge is highlighted throughout Scripture ([Genesis 18:25](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+18.25&version=AMP); [Psalm 94:2](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+94.2&version=AMP)). His judgment is both a source of hope for the oppressed and a warning to the wicked. ### Call to Action: Reflecting on [[God]]’s [[Metaphorical Names]] Take some time to reflect on the [[metaphorical names]] of [[God]] in Scripture. Consider what they reveal about His character and how they shape your understanding of His relationship with you. How does viewing [[God]] as a “[fortress]” or a “[shepherd]” change your perspective in times of uncertainty or need? > **“The LORD is my [[shepherd]]; I shall not want”** — [Psalm 23:1](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+23.1&version=AMP) ### Key Passages for Study - [Genesis 1:2](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+1.2&version=AMP) - [Deuteronomy 32:10-18](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy+32.10-18&version=AMP) - [Psalm 23:1](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+23.1&version=AMP) - [Isaiah 66:13](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+66.13&version=AMP) - [John 10:11](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+10.11&version=AMP) - [John 15:1-5](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+15.1-5&version=AMP) - [1 Peter 2:25](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Peter+2.25&version=AMP) - [Revelation 21:23](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+21.23&version=AMP) By studying these [[metaphorical names]] of [[God]], we can deepen our knowledge and appreciation of His multifaceted nature, learning to approach Him as both our [[Rock]] and our [[Shepherd]], our [[Light]] and our [[Shade]].