Adonay (Hebrew: אֲדֹנָי)
Religion / Theology / Divine Name / Mysticism
Definition:
Adonay is a reverential title for God in Hebrew, traditionally used as a spoken substitute for the Tetragrammaton YHWH, the sacred and unutterable name of God. It literally means “My Lord” and is commonly used in prayer, Scripture readings, and Jewish liturgy.
Linguistic Origin:
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Derived from the Hebrew root “Adon” meaning “lord” or “master”
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The form Adonay is a plural of majesty, expressing supreme reverence
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In Masoretic texts, vowel markings from Adonay were combined with the consonants YHWH to guide proper pronunciation (without speaking YHWH)
Use in Judaism:
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When reading the Torah and encountering YHWH, “Adonay” is said aloud instead
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Reflects deep reverence and the prohibition against pronouncing the Divine Name (cf. Exodus 20:7)
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Often paired with other divine titles (e.g., Adonay Elohim) to emphasize God's sovereignty and majesty
In Christian Tradition:
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Adopted in translations (commonly rendered as “Lord”)
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In mystical, esoteric, and magical texts, "Adonay" is used as a sacred divine name, especially in Kabbalah, Hermeticism, and angelic invocations
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Common in divine name triads (e.g., Adonay, Elohim, El Shaddai)
Symbolism and Theology:
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Represents divine authority, creative power, and transcendence, but also personal relationship with the divine
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In mysticism, Adonay serves as a speakable gateway to the ineffable God
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Emphasizes God’s role as sovereign Lord of all existence
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