Speaking the Name of God
"I am the God of Beth-el,
where thou anointedst the pillar,
and where thou vowedst
a vow unto me"
Genesis 31:13
The Sacred Name
Part of my academic background has been spent studying Judaism. Though there are many, one specific practice which has resonated with me is the sacredness with which they view the name of God.
In Old Testament time, no one would speak the name of God, save the High Priest, and then, only once per year, on the Day of Atonement, and in the Holy of Holies. Even today, the word "God," is most often written as "G-d" by faithful Jews.
I have always felt that part of the commandment to not take the Lord's name in vain means to be protective of its use. Songs have the power to cut straight to the heart. This is why music is such a powerful spiritual medium. But, with the repetitive nature of lyrics, it's my opinion that, sometimes, even gospel music can tread close to the point of overuse of the name of Deity. I can't help but be cognizant of that as I write my lyrics.
Naming God
One of my favorite stories from the Old Testament is that beautifully mysterious meeting between Jacob and God in the 28th Chapter of the Book of Genesis. Far from the house of his father, he comes to know his God. Jacob calls the place Beth-el, meaning House of God. In doing so, and perhaps without realizing it, he names his God in an intimate manner, for when God speaks to Jacob on a later occasion, He accepts the man-given designation, calling Himself, the God of Beth-el.
The act of naming and the acceptance of that name is of special spiritual significance. Throughout my songs, in both an effort to keep sacred the names of God and Jesus Christ, and as an act of creative devotion, I find unique ways of referencing the Divine. I name my God based on the circumstances of His majesty, and so, He becomes at once, among others:
The King of the Road
God of the Stone
The One That's Good
Our Captain
The Bright and Morning Star
The Pillar of Ancient Fire
One Who Heals
The God of the Plains
The Lion
The Pilgrim on the Road
The Great I AM
Some are variations from scriptural names. Some are from my own mind and heart. All are with the goal of holiness toward the name and person of God.
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