Theologian's Corner | The Tetragrammaton: A Lesson in Reverence

Tetragrammaton, or "YHWH"

In 21st century America, one can hear the Lord's name tossed about like leftover food in the average English expression:

"For G-d sake, what are you doing?"
"More snow?! J-sus!"
"Oh my G-d, I just saw the funniest thing!"

It happens everywhere - at schools (yes, Catholic ones too), in the elevator, on the subway, at the office, and in grocery stores. I often shopped in Brookline, MA, home to a Hasidic Jewish community, among others. Occasionally I'd hear the G-bomb dropped on the subway and glance over at my Jewish neighbor(s), who very often would just stare straight ahead or turn away in response, looking a bit queasy. It occurred to me that the lack of reverence for the name/appellation can be literally nauseating for those who have been taught to be careful and respectful of the name or appellations of God. This care is not necessarily ingrained from some cowardly fear of potential cosmic repercussions, but rather a genuine awe and love for the one Creator of all, including the human race.

To an observant Jew such negligent use of the Lord's name would be unthinkable, especially in writing. The Tetragrammaton (), or the four letters transliterated from Hebrew representing the name of God, emerged as a way to maintain reverence for the ineffable name. According to the Jewish Encyclopedia, "The term "Tetragrammaton" apparently arose in contradistinction to the divine names containing respectively twelve and forty-two letters and formed likewise from the letters Y,H,W,H (ib.pp. 137-146); for only thus is the designation intelligible, since Adonai likewise has four letters in Hebrew."

In 2008, [Roman Catholic] Bishop Arthur J. Serratelli of Paterson, N.J., chairman of the U.S. bishops' Committee on Divine Worship, announced the new Vatican "directives on the use of 'the name of God' in the sacred liturgy" in an Aug. 8 letter to his fellow bishops. According to the CNS story, "Bishop Serratelli said the Vatican decision also would provide "an opportunity to offer catechesis for the faithful as an encouragement to show reverence for the name of God in daily life, emphasizing the power of language as an act of devotion and worship."

How do you treat God's name(s)? As theologians in service to the Church and Her faithful, how should we encourage others to show reverence for the name of God in daily life? Have a discourse or two with colleagues. Invite others from different faiths to join the conversation. Explore the notion.

Peace be with you.

C. Pak, Founder AC USA