In Hebrew thought, a name did more than identify a person, it revealed their very identity. It is the same with the names of God, only in the Scriptures, God's identity is expressed not in one name, but in many. Each name of god is like a curtained window. Draw back the curtain and the light will flood in, giving us glimpses of his infinite glory. In Exodus 3:13-22, Moses asks God what his "name" is. Was he merely asking what he should call God? No-he was asking, "Who are you? Describe yourelf." God doesn't just say "I'm God." He explains that he is eternal. He is the God of Israel, a God of compassion who has taken notice of their captivity and will free them. Moses asked for a name. He was given an expression of God's essence.
