Bible Dictionary
Shaddai
Shaddai, especially in the name El Shaddai, is an ancient name of God commonly translated “the Almighty.” The patriarchs knew God by this name before the fuller revelation of the name Jehovah to Israel.
Definition
Shaddai, especially in the expression El Shaddai, is an ancient name of God. It is generally translated “the Almighty” and conveys the idea of divine might or omnipotence.
Biblical Usage
The patriarchs knew God by the name or character of El Shaddai. The supplied material distinguishes this patriarchal use from the later revelation of the name Jehovah in its fuller significance to Israel.
Historical Background
Shaddai is joined with El, “God,” in the expression El Shaddai, rendered “God Almighty.” It is found frequently in the Hebrew Scriptures and is traditionally explained as “the Mighty.”
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
The Omnipotent, the name of God in frequent use in the Hebrew Scriptures, generally translated “the Almighty.”
Smith's Bible Dictionary
(the Mighty), an ancient name of God, rendered “Almighty” everywhere in the Authorized Version, is found in connection with el, “God,” El Shaddai being then rendered “God Almighty.” By the name or in the character of El-Shaddai God was known to the patriarchs, (Genesis 17:1; 28:3; 43:14; 48:3; 40:25) before the name Jehovah, in its full significance, was revealed. (Exodus 6:3) [God]
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>shad'-a-i, shad'-i.</p><p>See GOD, NAMES OF, II, 8.</p>