Shaddai

Shaddai is a Hebrew title used for the God of Israel, most commonly encountered in the form El Shaddai, which is typically translated as “God Almighty.” The exact etymology of Shaddai is debated: El means “God,” while Shaddai is linked to roots associated with power, sufficiency, or nourishment. Some scholars connect Shaddai to concepts of strength, mountains, or nurturing, though the precise sense remains uncertain. The term is usually treated as a divine attribute rather than a personal name.

In the Hebrew Bible, El Shaddai appears primarily in Genesis, Job, and Psalms, emphasizing God’s omnipotence and covenant faithfulness. In Genesis 17:1, God declares, “I am El Shaddai; walk before me and be blameless.” The usage distinguishes this title from the divine name YHWH and conveys a sense of majesty, blessing, and protection attributed to the sovereign God.

Modern usage spans religious and cultural contexts. In Judaism and Christianity, El Shaddai is used in liturgy, theology, and biblical translations, usually rendered as “God Almighty” in English. The term has also appeared in contemporary Christian music, notably in the song “El Shaddai” written by Michael Card and John Thompson and popularized by various artists. In popular culture, the name Shaddai has been employed as a motif or title, such as in the video game Shaddai: Ascension of Metatron (2011).

As a given name, Shaddai is used in some communities, reflecting religious significance attached to the term. It may appear as a personal name or surname, illustrating how the phrase has extended beyond strictly liturgical use.