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H5945 · Hebrew · Old Testament
עֶלְיוֹן
elyown
Adjective/Title
upper, Most High, Elyon (divine title)

Definition

Elyown means 'upper' or 'highest' and functions as a divine title — 'the Most High' — appearing about 53 times. As a title for God, it emphasizes His absolute supremacy above all other powers, whether natural or spiritual. It is the name by which Melchizedek blessed Abraham (Genesis 14:18-20) and appears frequently in the Psalms as a title of transcendent sovereignty.

Usage & Theological Significance

The title El Elyon (God Most High) appears first in Genesis 14, where Melchizedek — the mysterious priest-king of Salem — blesses Abraham in the name of this God and receives a tenth of the spoils. Psalm 91 is the most intensive use, invoking Elyon as the one under whose shadow the believer dwells in safety. The theological force is that no power — not kings, not armies, not spiritual forces — rivals the Most High. In Daniel, the title appears repeatedly (in Aramaic form) as the nations learn through Nebuchadnezzar's humbling that 'the Most High is sovereign over all kingdoms' (Daniel 4:17). Jesus is identified as Son of the Most High in Luke 1:32.

Key Bible Verses

Genesis 14:18 Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. He was priest of God Most High [Elyon].
Psalm 91:1 Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High [Elyon] will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
Daniel 4:17 The Most High [Elyon] is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth.
Psalm 97:9 For you, LORD, are the Most High [Elyon] over all the earth.
Luke 1:32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High.

Related Words

External Resources

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