What Does Jehovah Jireh Mean? • Deshen Daily

“And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovah-jireh: as it is said to this day, In the mount of the LORD it shall be seen” (Genesis 22:14, KJV).

In the Old Testament, it was customary to give special names to places that marked significant events in people’s lives. In this devotional, we will explore how Abraham used the title Jehovah Jireh for a place that later became a cherished name for God.

In obedience to God’s command, Abraham took his son Isaac to Mount Moriah to offer him as a sacrifice. However, the Lord provided a lamb for the sacrifice instead of Isaac. This miraculous provision led Abraham to name the place Jehovah Jireh.

The Hebrew word “Jireh,” translated from the original text, is the same word Abraham had used earlier in verse 8 when he told Isaac in faith, “My son, God will provide Himself a lamb for a burnt offering” (Genesis 22:8, KJV). And indeed, God provided a lamb on the mountain for the sacrifice.

Here are some important truths about Jehovah Jireh. Firstly, the name was given to the place where God supernaturally provided a sacrifice. Most scholars agree that the mount refers to the hill where the Temple was later built. Secondly, the name transitioned from being a place name to becoming a title for God, signifying His ability to provide for the needs of His people. Lastly, Jehovah Jireh was ultimately fulfilled when God provided Jesus as the Lamb who takes away the sin of the world. Jesus is the fulfillment of all the names and titles of God in the Old Testament. The God who provided a Lamb for the sacrifice continues to meet every spiritual or physical need we have today. He will supply all our needs according to His riches in Christ Jesus—He is still Jehovah Jireh.

Meditate

Reflect on Abraham’s surprise and relief when he witnessed God’s provision of the sacrificial lamb.

Apply the Word

Remember that the name of Jesus is higher than any other name of God for us. Through the name of Jesus, God supplies all our needs in Christ—from forgiveness and eternal life to the healing of our bodies and our daily provisions. Rest in Christ.