Understanding the Lord’s Prayer and Jewish Tradition in Simple Terms
When we hear the phrase “God’s name is holy,” especially in the Lord’s Prayer (“hallowed be thy name”), it might sound a bit formal or mysterious. But in simple, everyday language, this phrase is about giving God the utmost respect and recognizing that God is unlike anyone or anything else.
What Does “Holy” Mean?
The word “holy” means something is set apart, special, or pure. So when we say God’s name is holy, we’re saying that God is unique and deserves our deepest respect. We don’t treat God’s name like any other word because it carries special meaning and power.
Why Is God’s Name So Important?
In many religions, especially in Jewish tradition, a name isn’t just a label. It represents the whole person—their character, reputation, and even their power. God’s name stands for everything God is: loving, powerful, just, and merciful. So, treating God’s name as holy means recognizing and honoring all these qualities.
What Does “Hallowed Be Thy Name” Mean?
When we pray “hallowed be thy name” in the Lord’s Prayer, we’re asking that God’s name be respected and kept special—not only by us, but by everyone. It’s a way of saying, “May everyone know how great and unique God is, and may we never use God’s name in a way that’s thoughtless or disrespectful.”
How Do We Keep God’s Name Holy?
· Speak with respect: Don’t use God’s name carelessly or as a swear word. Treat it as something valuable and important.
· Honor God in your actions: The way we live should show that we honor God—not just with words, but by being honest, kind, and loving.
· Recognize God’s uniqueness: Remember that God is different from any person, leader, or idol. God’s holiness sets God apart from everything else.
Jewish Tradition and God’s Name
In Jewish tradition, God’s name is so holy that many people avoid saying it out loud. Instead, they use words like “Adonai” (which means “Lord”) or “HaShem” (which means “the Name”) when praying or reading scripture. This comes from a deep respect for God’s uniqueness and authority.
The Hebrew Bible (also known as the Old Testament) gives clear instructions about this. For example, in Leviticus 19:2, God tells the people: “You must be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy.” This means that just as God is set apart and special, God’s people are called to be set apart too—living lives that reflect God’s goodness and holiness.
Not Using God’s Name Lightly
Keeping God’s name holy isn’t just about avoiding bad language. It’s about treating God seriously and making sure our words and actions show respect. This means not using God’s name in jokes, curses, or in ways that don’t honor who God is.
Why Does This Matter?
Treating God’s name as holy helps us keep our focus on God’s greatness and reminds us to live in a way that reflects God’s goodness. It’s a daily reminder to respect God, honor others, and take our faith seriously.
In summary, saying “God’s name is holy” is about much more than words—it’s about our attitude, our actions, and our hearts. It means recognizing God’s special place in our lives and showing that respect in everything we do.
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 