In most English Bible translations
(such as the KJV, NIV, ESV, and NASB),
the word LORD (printed in small capital letters)
represents the sacred Hebrew divine name YHWH
(often vocalized as Yahweh).
This typesetting convention distinguishes it from
the ordinary word “Lord,”
which usually translates the Hebrew Adonai (“Master/Lord”)
or other generic terms for a superior.
The use of LORD therefore preserves
both the uniqueness and the reverence
of God’s personal covenant name.
The four Hebrew consonants YHWH (the Tetragrammaton) are the personal name by which God revealed Himself to Moses at the burning bush:
“God said to Moses, ‘I AM WHO I AM.’ And he said, ‘Say this to the people of Israel: “I AM has sent me to you.”’” (Exodus 3:14)
The name YHWH is derived from the Hebrew verb “to be” and conveys God’s self-existence, eternal presence, and unchanging faithfulness. It is the name by which God entered into covenant relationship with His people.
YHWH appears more than 6,800 times in the Hebrew Bible—far more than any other divine title. It is especially prominent in contexts of:
Because the name was considered so holy, later Jewish tradition avoided pronouncing it aloud, substituting Adonai (“Lord”) when reading the Scriptures. This practice influenced the English translation tradition of using LORD in small caps.
English Bibles carefully distinguish the two words:
| Printed Form | Hebrew Word | Meaning | Typical Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| LORD | YHWH | Personal covenant name | God’s self-revelation to Israel |
| Lord | Adonai | Master, Owner, Sovereign | General title of authority |
| lord | Various | Human master or ruler | Earthly superiors |
This distinction is not always obvious in modern translations that drop the small-caps convention, but it is important for accurate study.
When New Testament writers quote the Old Testament, they frequently render YHWH as Kyrios (“Lord”). In many cases this “Lord” is then applied directly to Jesus, affirming His deity. Classic examples include:
Thus the title “Lord” in the New Testament often carries the full weight of the divine name LORD from the Old Testament.
The name LORD (YHWH) reveals:
It is the name by which God desires to be known and remembered “throughout all generations” (Exodus 3:15).
The small-caps “LORD” in English Bibles is a helpful convention that keeps the sacred personal name YHWH distinct from ordinary titles of authority. Studying the difference between LORD and Lord opens up rich layers of meaning in both Testaments and deepens our appreciation for the covenant-keeping God who has revealed Himself to us.