The Names of God: El Roi

Northshore Christian Church

In today's church message, the focus is on the name El Roi, explored through Genesis 16. The name's first part, "El," is a common term for God in Semitic languages, which include those historically spoken by the peoples of Mesopotamia, Arabia, and Ethiopia. The term signifies "the strong one." The latter part, "Roi," has three interpretations: seeing, my seeing, and the one who sees me. The emphasis is on the last definition, which reflects a personal experience of Hagar, highlighting God’s attention and protection. Nahum Sarna, a biblical translator, adds depth by suggesting that the various meanings of El Roi are intended to be understood simultaneously. This creates a rich understanding of God as the one who sees—both universally and personally—inviting the congregation to embrace this multifaceted perspective.