Definition: Jehova Rohi

The name Jehovah Rohi, also known as Yahweh Roi or “The LORD is my Shepherd,” is a name for God that is rich in imagery and comfort. It comes from the famous opening line of Psalm 23, authored by King David, who himself was a shepherd before he was anointed king over Israel. The name combines the Tetragrammaton, YHWH (often vocalized as Jehovah or Yahweh), which is the specific and most sacred name of God in the Hebrew Bible, with “Rohi” or “Roi” from “ro’eh,” which means “my shepherd” in Hebrew.

As Jehovah Rohi, God is portrayed as the caretaker and protector who guides, provides for, and watches over His “sheep” — His people. The imagery of God as a shepherd was not only understandable to the agrarian society of ancient Israel but has continued to resonate with countless generations since, offering a picture of God’s personal care, guidance, and provision.

In Psalm 23, the psalmist expresses confidence in God’s leadership through life’s valleys and mountaintops, reflecting on the comfort and security found in His presence. As Jehovah Rohi, God ensures that His followers lack nothing, leading them to green pastures and still waters, restoring their souls, and guiding them along right paths.

This name of God assures believers of His intimate involvement in their daily lives, His protection from danger, and His direction in their journey, ultimately reflecting the heart of God towards His people as one that is loving, nurturing, and deeply personal.