Study and written by: Felicia A. Trecek
04.02.05 | Revised 10.31.05

Is there one or two Personages in the Name YHWH? Did Yahushua Messiah pre-exist before his physical conception? And, if so, was Yahushua Messiah identified within the Name YHWH?

There is a world wide, cross denominational controversy concerning the answers to these posed questions. And, there has been volumes of study papers and books written about the Oneness of YHWH which encompasses and questions Messiah's preexistence and divinity.

This presentation will answer these posed questions.

1. Is there one or two Personages in the Name YHWH?
2. Did Yahushua Messiah preexist before his physical conception? If so, in what state?
3. Was Yahushua Messiah identified within the Name YHWH as one of the two I AMÕs?

The goal of this presentation is: 1) to present unequivocal facts and do so succinctly and in an easy comprehensible order, and 2) make it concise without delving into thousands of scriptures whereas making the study laborious and convoluted.

Firstly, the title Elohim needs to be addressed and identified to begin answering all of the posed questions. Is the title Elohim plural in nature? And, who is Elohim? Genesis 1:26 provides the answer to the first question: is the title Elohim plural? Genesis 1:26 reads, "And Elohim said, 'Let US make man in OUR image, according to OUR likeness...'" The word US and the two OUR words in Genesis 1:26 are plural in nature and clearly refer back to the title Elohim because Elohim is doing the speaking. Therefore, this Elohim title is unequivocally plural and NOT singular. This is the first point and FACT which this study will build upon.

FACT #ONE: Elohim is plural in nature based on Genesis 1:26.

Regardless of the Elohim plurality found in Genesis 1:26, there are some people who believe that the title Elohim does not always possess a plural application. These people, who only believe there is only a one-in-number YHWH, say that when the title Elohim is used in direct reference to the Name YHWH, Elohim is singular. However, this study will show that this belief is false. Elohim is plural in nature when applied to the Name YHWH.

Who is this Elohim that created man in THEIR likeness? There are several places in scripture where the answer to this posed question is found. One such place is found in Psalms 100:3. Psalms 100:3 begins with the word, "KNOW". Whatever information follows this word "KNOW" must be very important. We are COMMANDED to KNOW the bit of information this verse contains. Psalms 100:3 reads, "Know that YHWH HE IS ELOHIM" Consequently, since Elohim is plural in nature, YHWH is also plural in nature. At minimum, Elohim is an attribute of YHWH. And, at most, Elohim is equal to YHWH. An attribute v.s. equality will be discussed subsequently.

Now, read the second sentence in Psalms 100:3. It reads, "He made us, and we are His - His people and the sheep of His pasture." Psalms 100:3 reveals two main facts that point back to Genesis 1:26. Psalms 100:3 identifies: 1) the plurality of Elohim is attributed to the Name YHWH, and 2) it restates that this plural YHWH created man. Therefore, based upon Psalms 100:3, Genesis 1:26 can be correctly rephrased WITHOUT misinterpretation or misrepresentation; "And YHWH said, 'Let US make man in OUR image, according to OUR likeness...'" As a repeat, YHWH is plural!

To solidify that this title ELOHIM is both plural in nature and is joined directly with YHWH, notice Genesis 3:22. Genesis 3:22 reads, "And YHWH Elohim said, 'See, the man has become like one of Us, to know good and evil. ..." In this particular instance of scripture, both the Name YHWH and the title Elohim are present which are joined in direct reference to the plural word "US".

Since Elohim is plural, the Hebrew word "Elohim" can be correctly translated into English as "GODS". Therefore, Genesis 3:22 can be correctly rendered as: "And YHWH GODS said, 'See, the man has become like one of Us, to know good and evil. ..."

Genesis 3:22 is proof that demonstrates the unitarian belief (which is: belief in only one-YHWH-in-number) reasoning for Genesis 1:26 is false which is to say: the unitarian's claim that the plurality of Elohim is in reference to other angelic beings other than YHWH. Both Genesis 3:22 and Psalms 100:3 contradict this false reasoning and belief.

In Genesis 3:22, the Name YHWH is joined with and identified with the title Elohim. Moreover, this YHWH Elohim, when speaking, referred to itself as US. Therefore, the Name YHWH is unequivocally plural in nature based upon both Genesis 3:22 and Psalms 100:3.

FACT #TWO: YHWH is Elohim; therefore, YHWH is also plural in nature.

FACT #2 is firm and scripture explicity supports the plural nature of YHWH. Although, there might be questions regarding the validity of whether or not ELOHIM actually equates to YHWH. The statement in Psalms 100:3 specifically reads: YHWH HE IS ELOHIM. Consequently, the direct denotation meaning is: Elohim is an attribute of YHWH. Although, the connotative meaning suggests that Elohim is equal to the Name YHWH.

Before delving into the explanation of equality; understand, whether or not one adheres to the belief that Elohim is merely an attribute of YHWH - this attribute remains in full support of the the plural nature of YHWH. Hence, the plurality of Elohim is an attribute of YHWH, because YHWH IS ELOHIM.

The following is an example of an attribute that will expound the understanding of; YHWH IS ELOHIM. Grass is green, but "green" isn't necessarily "grass:. Green is an attribute of grass. Thus, 'grass' and 'green' are not interchangeable. If they were interchangeable, then 'grass' and 'green' would be equal.

However, just because green is an attribute of grass and are not interchangeable, doesn't change any realities of YHWH. The word Elohim means "Mighty Ones". And, "Mighty Ones" are identified within the Name YHWH. There are scriptures that demonstrate the Name YHWH interchanges with the title Elohim which strongly suggests equality. For example:

Isaiah 45:18 reads, "For thus said YHWH, Creator of the heavens, He is Elohim, Former of earth and its Maker, He established it, He did not create it to be empty, He formed it to be inhabited: 'I am YHWH, and there is none else."

In Isaiah 45:18, YHWH said HE was the Creator of the heavens. Furthermore, He then identified Himself as Elohim. Moreover, Genesis 1:1 reads, "In the beginning, Elohim AZ created the heavens and the earth."

In Isaiah 45:18, YHWH explicitly said that HE created the heavens. Although, in Genesis 1:1, Elohim explicitly said THEY created the heavens. Since both YHWH and Elohim have been demonstrated to be the creator of the heavens, the Name YHWH and the title ELOHIM are interchangeable in this instance. They both have the ability to create. But, a mere attribute of a substance IS NOT interchangeable as like: green isn't necessarily grass because grass could also be brown.

However, one attribute about the title Elohim requires attention. Elohim (meaning: plural - Mighty Gods) is not always YHWH because there are many mighty gods of the wrong opposing Spirit. But, this fact does not diminish Psalms 100:3; YHWH is Elohim (Mighty Gods). The Name YHWH and the title Elohim are interchangeable when they are used in the proper context. For example: Elohim of the opposing demonic Spirit has no part of Elohim YHWH. In this case, the title Elohim of demonic Spirits is not interchangeable with the Name YHWH.

If the title Elohim is strictly used in the context of YHWH, then it is correct to say that this plural Elohim is equal to YHWH based upon one already demonstrated instance when Elohim and YHWH were shown to be interchangeable.

For one example out of many to demonstrate that the Name YHWH is interchangeable with the title Elohim, notice Psalm 20:1. But, when reading Psalm 20:1, notice that the Hebrew word Elohim, which translates into English as "Gods", possesses only one unified Name. The second part of Psalm 20:1 reads; "...The Name of Elohim of Jacob does set you on high." Jacob's Gods have one unified Name which is YHWH.

The people who only believe a one-god in number, would turn and use Psalm 20:1 in their favor. They could say; "See, Elohim is singular in nature because in this instance Elohim has a singular Name." But, I bring one scripture (out of many) into evidence to clearly and unequivocally demonstrate that more than one person can have a singular unified name.

Hosea 8:14 is a perfect example which demonstrates a unified name for many. The first part of Hosea 8:14 reads; "For Israel has forgotten his Maker..." In this instance, as like other scripture instances, the name Israel refers to the children of Israel - the entire nation which consists of numerous people. Henceforth; in Hosea 8:14, the name "Israel" is unified as one because the singular personal pronoun "HIS" is in direct reference to the name Israel - a nation consisting of numerous people. The word "HIS" is used, not the word, "THEIR". As a repeat, Hosea 8:14 reads; "For Israel has forgotten HIS Maker...". It DOES NOT read, "For Israel has forgotten THEIR Maker..." Hosea 8:14 reads; "For Israel has forgotten HIS Maker..."

Because there are many biblical examples demonstrating that a multiple of many can be unified in one singular name, it is dubious to argue that the Name YHWH is singular in nature based upon singular personal pronouns. And, it demonstrates that the title Elohim can be plural in natural regardless that Elohim has a singular Name as like Psalm 20:1 reveals.

Deuteronomy 6:4
Based upon the clarity of Genesis 1:26, Genesis 3:22 and Psalms 100:3, there is more than one Personage that exists in the Name YHWH contrary to the belief of the Jews and others who reject the first two main facts just presented.

Since the Name YHWH is plural in nature, Deuteronomy 6:4 needs to be addressed. The Jews and other groups of people who claim only one YHWH in number (not plural), use Deuteronomy 6:4 as one of their foundational scriptures to base their belief upon. Deuteronomy 6:4 reads, "Hear, O Israel: YHWH our Elohim, YHWH is one!"

The English word "one" was translated from the Hebrew word, "ekhawd", Strong's Exhaustive Concordance #259. "Ekhawd", according to Strong's primarily means: united. The Hebrew word "ekhawd" is derived from the root word, "awkhad", Strong's #258. It means, "to unify" and figuratively means "collectively." Based upon this definition, the true meaning and translation of Deuteronomy 6:4 should have been the following: "Hear, O Israel: YHWH our Elohim, YHWH is unified!"

If anyone chooses to ignore and reject Strong's Exhaustive Concordance definition of the word "one" in Deuteronomy 6:4, the meaning remains very provable in Deuteronomy 6:4, the verse itself. Additionally, this Hebrew "ekhawd" word is found in other places in the old testament and can clearly be understood to mean unified such as: Adam and Eve became ONE in the book of Genesis.

Firstly, the meaning of the Hebrew word "ekhawd", translated as "one" in the English language is identifiable within Deuteronomy 6:4, the verse itself. Simply take notice of the adjoining Elohim title to the Name YHWH when reading Deuteronomy 6:4. Again, it reads, "Hear, O Israel: YHWH our Elohim, YHWH is unified!" The Name YHWH is unequivocally being directly identified with the title Elohim exactly like Genesis 3:22 did which contained the word "US" as demonstrated. Deuteronomy 6:4 can be correctly rephrased to read as: "Hear, O Israel: YHWH our Gods, YHWH is unified!" The command should be understood as the following: the first part of the verse is a precursor to the second part. The first part is: listen Israel to YHWH your Gods. YHWH wanted them to perk-up their ears because He wanted to impart important information to them which was: The plurality of YHWH is unified. The two Personages are unified in every aspect of their nature, plus are unified in their expectations of Israel.

Secondly, the Hebrew word "ekhawd", translated as "one" in the English language is also found in Genesis 2:24. Genesis 2:24 is an indirect reference to Adam and Eve. It reads, "For this cause a man shall leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife, and they shall become ONE flesh." Clearly, Adam and Eve were two physical beings; although, were unified in the flesh as like any other man and woman couple who marry.

The Hebrew language possesses several words that have been translated "one" into the English language. For an example out of several: "khad", Strong's #2298 can mean "single." Although, this Hebrew word that can mean "single" was not used in Deuteronomy 6:4 to describe YHWH.

To base the "YHWH is one in number" theory on Deuteronomy 6:4 is invalid and erroneous. To demonstrate the ludicrousness and erroneousness of this faulty belief, I will incorrectly rewrite Deuteronomy 6:4 by adding the two words, "in number" after the English word "one". "Hear, O Israel: YHWH our Gods, YHWH is one in number." You should now clearly see the contradiction. Which is it? Is YHWH plural or singular? The first part shows the plurality of YHWH, but the second part is misconstrued to mean one in number. There is no doubt, a contradiction of terms is present when the Hebrew word "ekhawd" is defined to mean, one in number.

Merely based upon the existence of the word Elohim, which accompanies and adjoins the Name YHWH in Deuteronomy 6:4, should be evidence enough to establish the following fact: YHWH is plural, so consequently is unified. Although, further proof of this fact is in Genesis 2:24 as I have already demonstrated. The evidence is not limited to this presentation of demonstrations; although, the following, main point number three will show the plurality are actually two Personages.

Now, I will continue to address and establish main fact number three which is: there are two mighty Personages in the Name YHWH. And, the second or rather lesser of the two Personages, did the hands-on creating of the heavens and the earth. Isaiah 51:16 is unambiguous evidence.

Isaiah 51:16 reads, "And, I have put My Words in Your mouth, and with the shadow of My hand I have covered you, to plant the heavens and the lay the foundations of the earth, and to say to Zion, 'You are My people.'"

There are several facts that can be extracted and brought to light from this verse.

1. There is an "I" Personage and a "You" Personage. This establishes two Personages within Isaiah 51:16. (And, these two Personages will be specifically identified in the evidence submitted for main fact #4, subsequently.)
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2. The "I" Personage is greater than the "You" Personage because: a) the "I" Personage covered the "You" Personage to plant the heavens and lay the foundations of the earth. b) The words of the "I" Personage was placed in the mouth of the "You" Personage. Again, The "I" Personage is greater than the "You" Personage.
3. Both Personages existed before the heavens were planted and the foundations of the earth were laid.
4. The "You" Personage, clearly shown to be the lesser Personage, also did the hands-on creating of the heavens and earth. The greater Personage did not perform the hands-on creating.
5. The greater Personage, which is also to say, the "I" Personage, put His words into the mouth of the "You" Personage.
6. The "You" Personage possesses a mouth.
7. By the decree of the "I" Personage, the "You" Personage can claim the people of Zion for His own.

Who are these two great Personages spoken of in Isaiah 51:16? Verse 13, just three verses previous to that of 16, of Isaiah 51 - the same chapter - reveals the answer. Isaiah 51:13 reads, "And you have forgotten YHWH your Maker who stretched out the heavens and laid the foundations of the earth...?" YHWH stretched out the heavens and laid the foundations of the earth! The lesser Personage spoken of in verse 16 did the hands-on creating - stretched out the heavens and laid the foundations of the earth. However, the greater Personage made it possible by the covering and by the words placed within the lesser Personage's mouth. Therefore, the following statement is correct: the plural YHWH created the heavens and the earth.

Again, restating,
FACT #THREE: there are two mighty Personages in the Name YHWH. And, the second or rather lesser of the two Personages, did the hands-on creating of the heavens and the earth. Although, the greater Personage made it possible for the lesser Personage to do the work.

Now, I will continue to address and establish main fact number four which is: the identity of the lesser Personage who did the hands-on creating written about in Isaiah 51:16. For you, the reader to verify the first following evidence that I will now submit, you will need an Interlinear Bible which shows the actual Hebrew text.

There are two Hebrew letters within Genesis 1:1 that were never translated into English, but ignored. This two letter combination is not a word. The translators might not have known why these two letters were there, and consequently did not translate them. These two letters are the first and last letters of the Hebrew alphabet, the Aleph and the Tav and truly do exist in the Hebrew text within Genesis 1:1. Translated into English, they equate to the English AZ - the first and last letter of the alphabet. And, if translated into the Greek, they equate to the Alpha and the Omega which are the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet.

If you look at the actual Hebrew text within Genesis 1:1, know Hebrew reads right to left unlike English that reads left to right. The ALEPH letter is on the right and the TAV letter is on the left.

The actual reading of Genesis 1:1 from the Sovereign Grace Publishers (Jay P. Green, Sr.) Interlinear Bible with the truthful acknowledgment of the Hebrew letters AZ reads as follows: "In the beginning, created Elohim AZ the heavens and the earth." AZ is a specific identifier of the exact Personage within the Elohim plurality who did the hands-on creating.

This AZ creator in Genesis 1:1 is the same creator Personage in Isaiah 51:16 who received the Words in His mouth to do the creating. So, thus far, proof has shown that the hands-on Creator of the heavens and the earth has the title: AZ.

To specifically demonstrate the exact identity of this hands-on AZ Creator, again you will need an Interlinear Bible. Within the scripture Zechariah 12:10, there is another Hebrew AZ that was not translated into English from the Hebrew text, but was mysteriously ignored by the translators. The actual reading of Zechariah 12:10 from the Sovereign Grace Publishers (Jay P. Green, Sr.) Interlinear Bible with the truthful acknowledgment of the Hebrew letters AZ is as follows: "...And shall they look on Me AZ whom they have pierced and shall they mourn for Him as one mourns for an only Son and will be bitter over Him like the bitterness over the Firstborn." This "Me AZ" Personage is none other than our Savior Yahushua Messiah. The New Testament testifies that it was Yahushua Messiah who was pierced.

Zechariah 12:10 is a future prophesy regarding Messiah's second coming. When Messiah returns to Jerusalem, they will look upon Him and know at that time, this Messiah is the One they pierced. Moreover, Messiah is specifically identified as the AZ in Revelation 1:7-8 where this same prophesy is restated.

Before reading Revelation 1:7-8, know verse 1 informs us that the entire book of Revelation is the revelation from Yahushua Messiah. Revelation 1:7-8 reads, (v:7) "See, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye shall see Him, even they WHO PIERCED HIM. And all tribes of the earth shall mourn because of Him. Even so, Amen." (v:8) "'I am the A and the Z, Beginning and End,' say's the Master, 'who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty."

This Yahushua Messiah preexisted and is identified by many names/titles; one title is AZ. This AZ Personage is shown to be: 1) the One they pierced, 2) the One that is coming in the clouds. 3) the Creator of the heavens and earth in the beginning of Genesis 1:1 who which is none other than the lesser Personage who performed the hands-on creating in Isaiah 51:16.

The evidence just demonstrated, revealed the lesser Personage AZ became Yahushua Messiah. Therefore, Yahushua Messiah preexisted and was the creator of the heavens and earth.

The following evidence will also show that this AZ lesser Personage (of the two) who became Yahushua Messiah, was and is a part of the Name YHWH. Yahushua Messiah can be identified in the Name YHWH through the revelation of the inheritance. Who inherits the entire creation?

There is only one heir of the Divine High Father who has inherited the entire creation. This Personage is; the Son, Yahushua Messiah. He was appointed heir of everything. Hebrews 1:1-2 reads, "God, having of old spoken in many portions and many ways to the fathers by the prophets," (v:2) "Has in these last days spoken to us by the Son, whom He has appointed heir of all, through whom also He made the ages." And, In John 3:35 Messiah stated, "The Father loves the Son, and has given all into His hand." And, Colossians 1:14-16 (speaking of Messiah) reads (v:14), "in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins," (v:15) "who is the likeness of the invisible God, the first-born of all creation." (v:16) "Because in Him were created all that are in the heavens and that are on the earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or rulerships or principalities or authorities - all have been created through Him and for Him."

There is no other Spiritual Personage in heaven that has been given claim to the people of Zion (stated in Isaiah 51:16) over and above Yahushua Messiah. Fact: Yahushua Messiah is the inheritor of all and this includes the people of Zion. There is yet additional evidence that further substantiates this fact: the Personage who did the hands-on creating and was decreed ownership of the people of Zion in Isaiah 51:16 is the same Personage Yahushua Messiah. Further evidence that substantiates this fact is the following information.

With the understanding that Yahushua Messiah was appointed heir of everything according to Hebrews 1:1-2, John 3:35, and Colossians 1:14-16, now notice scriptures as like Deuteronomy 9:26 and 29. In Deuteronomy 9:26 and 29, Moses prayed directly to YHWH; asking YHWH to refrain from destroying His (YHWH's) inheritance because of the sins Israel committed in the dessert. Moses said the Israelites are YHWH's inheritance. Deuteronomy 9:29 specifically reads, "...they are Your people and Your inheritance." For another example of this, Jeremiah 10:16 reads, "The Portion of Jacob is not like these, for He is the Maker of all, and Israel is the tribe of His inheritance - YHWH of Hosts is His Name." Firstly, YHWH was speaking. (Refer back to verse one.) And, this Maker of all who claims Israel as the tribe of His inheritance, identifies Himself as: YHWH of Hosts. Secondly, the context was in the present tense.

Deuteronomy 9:26 and 29 and Jeremiah 10:16 are two passage examples out of a multitude that read, the children of Israel are YHWH's inheritance. (Other examples can be found in [but not limited to]: Deut 4:20, Deut 32:9, Ps 33:12, Isaiah 19:25, Isaiah 47:6, Isaiah 63:17, Jer 16:18, Jer 51:19, Ez 22:16) With this fact of knowledge, also know this: logic dictates one does not inherit something one already owns. If there is only one (in-number) Personage possessing the Name YHWH, the statement that the Israelites are YHWH's inheritance found in multiple places, is erroneous and completely dubious because there is no need to inherit them. YHWH would already own them.

I will submit one more scripture into evidence, demonstrating that Yahushua Messiah, the inheritor of everything, preexisted and was the Personage Moses bowed down to within the Name YHWH.

In Exodus 34, Moses is atop mount Sinai the second time. Moses wanted to visually see YHWH, so YHWH, in His glorified form, passed before Moses, only showing His glorified backside. Immediately following, Moses bowed and made a plea. Exodus 34:8-9 specifically reads, (v:8) "And Moses hurried and bowed himself toward the earth, and did obeisance," (v:9) "and said, 'If, now, I have found favor in Your eyes, O YHWH, I pray, let YHWH go on in our midst, even though we are a stiff-necked people. And forgive our crookedness and our sin, and take us as Your inheritance." Moses is unequivocally making his plea to the glorified Personage that He just seen with His own two eyes. It is this specific glorified Personage who will inherit the Israelites.

Again, the fact remains: Hebrews 1:1-2 , John 3:35, and Colossians 1:14-16 all testify that Yahushua Messiah is the inheritor of everything. This lesser Personage within the Name YHWH who was the inheritor of the Israelites, is no other than the Personage that became Yahushua Messiah. This is a fact and it concurs with John 1:18, John 4:12, John 5:37 and John 6:46 whereas no human has ever seen the Supreme Father Personage at anytime or has heard His voice.

In Isaiah 51:16, the lesser Personage who did the hands-on creating, could call the people of Zion His own at some designated point in time. This SAME Creator of everything Personage states in Jeremiah 10:16 that the Israelites are His inheritance; also making claim to them. The designated point in time for claiming the people of Zion and the Israelites happened when this lesser Personage became the greater Personage's Son so that the inheritance could be enacted. (As a side note: the law of inheritance according to biblical law is that the father's possessions pass to his son. The father doesn't have to die in order for this to happen. In this case, it's called a living inheritance. And, one who is not of the bloodline cannot receive an inheritance if an offspring inheritor exists.)

Yahushua Messiah, the Son, preexisted as the lesser Personage described in Isaiah 51:16 who was 1) the hands-on Creator of the heavens and earth, and 2) who was decreed to claim the people of Zion. Additionally, Jeremiah 10:16 states that this SAME Creator of the heavens and earth inherits the children of Israel. Now notice Psalms 2:6. It shows the Son was also promised to inherit the gentiles. Psalms 2:6 reads, "But I, I have set My King on Zion, My set-apart mountain." (v:7) "I inscribe for a law, YHWH has said to Me, 'You are My Son, Today I have brought you forth." (v:8) "Ask of Me, and I make the gentiles Your inheritance."

There are many facts revealed in Psalms 2:6. Besides the fact that the Son was given the gentiles as an inheritance, the Son was set as a King on Zion. For additional proof of this, notice Zechariah 9:9. Zechariah 9:9 reads, "Rejoice greatly, O daughter of ZION! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! See, YOUR KING is coming to you. He is righteous and endowed with deliverance, HUMBLE and riding on a donkey, a colt, the foal of a donkey." Zechariah 9:9 was a prophesy of Messiah during His first coming. (Reference Matthew 21:4-5 for the actual event.) Zechariah 9:9 and Psalms 2:6 clearly demonstrate Messiah is the King of Zion. Since He will reign as King of Zion, the people of Zion will be His subjects as we have already demonstrated in Isaiah 51:16.

As a repeat, and to solidify this point, I recall your attention again to Isaiah 51:16. The greater Personage within Isaiah 51:16 decreed that the lesser Personage, who did the hands-on creating, could claim the people of Zion for His own. Messiah, the Son in Psalms 2:6 and Zechariah 9:9 became King, the ruler of Zion, and the subjects are His. The lesser Personage in Isaiah 51:16 who did the hands-on creating and given the people of Zion as His own is the very same Personage that became Yahushua Messiah.

Based upon the previous presented scriptures, fact four can be rightly established.

FACT #FOUR: a) Yahushua Messiah preexisted as AZ and was the hands-on creator and lesser Personage that carried forth the Words of the Greater Personage spoken of in Isaiah 51:16. b) Yahushua Messiah is the inheritor of everything from His Father. Based upon this fact, the Personage in the old testament that Moses and other prophets of old beseeched, the One identified by the Name YHWH, and specifically referred to as the inheritor of the Israelites, is the Personage that became Yahushua Messiah. He is the one who held the promises of the inheritance. Yahushua Messiah is the inheritor of everything which includes the Israelites. Additionally, He is the King of Zion and the subjects are His.

Any portion of inheritance the saints and everyone else receives is directly from Messiah since He is now the owner of all. Colossians 3:24 reads, "...from the Master you shall receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Master, Messiah, you serve."

This statement in Colossians 3:24 is also evidence to show Messiah is an El (God). The second commandment out of the ten found in Exodus 20:3 reads, "You shall have no other Gods before Me." Verse 5 reads, "you shall not bow down to them, nor SERVE them. ..." Although, we are informed in Colossians 3:24 we SERVE Messiah. Since this is a fact: we serve Messiah, Messiah must be part of the YHWH plurality or else we would violate the second commandment.

To establish fact number five, I will now demonstrate the Greater Supreme Personage was not the Personage who directly interfaced with the people of the bible. In doing so, I will begin with Genesis 32:24-30. This section of scripture reads of Jacob's event when he wrestled with the Man (Messenger) all night. Jacob begged the Man to reveal His Name, but Jacob was never given an answer from the Man during this wrestling encounter. Jacob also demanded a blessing from this particular Man.

Hosea 12:4-5 reveals Jacob specifically wrestled with the Messenger. Hosea 12:4-5 reads, (v:4) "He strove with the Messenger (Angel) and overcame, he wept and sought favor. He found Him in BethEl, and there He spoke to us -" (v:5) "even YHWH Elohim of hosts, YHWH is his remembrance." There should be no doubt that the Greater Supreme Personage within the Name YHWH spoke through this Messenger that wrestled with Jacob. Although, this Messenger was/is a part of duality of Elohim. To show this fact, return to Genesis 32:30. After Jacob wrestled with the Messenger who manifested Himself as a man, he said, "...For I (Jacob) have seen Elohim face to face, and my life is preserved." As main fact #2 has shown, the title Elohim can be interchangeable with the Name YHWH. This is why Jacob was astonished that he saw Elohim face to face and lived!

Jacob knew that He wrested with the Messenger of His presence (Isaiah 63:9), but Jacob was unaware of exactly who He was. That is why Jacob wanted to know His specific Name. Jacob obviously already knew that this Man was a part of Elohim since he, Jacob said it.

For my second example, I will demonstrate that this Elohim made several visits to Jacob. But, this time He reveals to Jacob, His specific Name. (The reason why the Messenger did not reveal His name earlier, but did so after Jacob returned to BethEl, is prophetic. This study article will not include the prophetic meaning since it is a subject entirely of it's own.)

Notice Genesis 35:9,11,14,15. Genesis 35:9 reads, "And Elohim appeared to Jacob again, when he came from Paddan Aram and blessed him." Verse 11 reads, "And Elohim said to him, 'I am El Shaddia. Bear fruit and increase... " Verse 14 reads, "And Elohim went up from him in the place where He had spoken with him." And, verse 15 reads, "And Jacob called the name of the place where Elohim spoke with him, BethEl."

There are three important points to extract from Genesis 35:9,11,14,15.

First point: Elohim appeared to Jacob AGAIN. Whether or not Elohim appear as a Man again or in a glorified state is unknown.

Second point: After Elohim was finished speaking to Jacob, He went up. This shows, He first came down to speak face-to-face with Jacob.

Third point: This Elohim said, "'I am El Shaddia." El Shaddia is translated in the King James as "God Almighty". So, rephrased, Elohim (two Personages) said, "I am El Almighty." Although the plurality did the speaking, the plurality revealed the identity of the One whom Jacob seen with His own two eyes. Proof of this is the following.

I will reintroduce a scripture I have already presented. Revelation 1:7-8 reads, (v:7) "See, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye shall see Him, even they WHO PIERCED HIM. And all tribes of the earth shall mourn because of Him. Even so, Amen." (v:8) "'I am the A and the Z, Beginning and End,' say's the Master, 'who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty."

The Messiah who was pierced, the AZ, who was, who is, and who is to come, identifies Himself as the Almighty.

The title Almighty does not mean this Messiah has all authority. But, it does reveal that He possesses all power; notwithstanding, separate from His Father. The POWER is the WORD. When the WORD speaks, things happen because it is the ultimate power. I will elaborate on the Word Power subsequently which will explain how the plural "Elohim" can say, "I am El Almighty" as a singular Personage.

Conclusion of this second demonstration of Jacob.

1) The Messenger is known as and is referred to as Elohim.

2) Elohim appeared multiple times (more than two) to Jacob. Unequivocally as demonstrated, Elohim appeared at least twice face-to-face with Jacob. The first face-to-face demonstration was in Genesis 32:24-30 where Jacob physically wrestled with Elohim. The second face-to-face demonstration was in Genesis 35:9,14.

3) This Messenger who has clearly been identified with and as Elohim, was the Mediator between the Greater Personage in heaven. He was the spokesman. He was the One sent forth.

4) This Messenger Elohim revealed His specific Name: El Shaddai which means, God Almighty. And, within Revelation 1:7-8, Messiah reveals He is: Almighty.

The Lesser Personage within the Name YHWH Elohim was the One sent forth as the spokesman for the Greater Supreme Personage. Please notice two additional scriptures that are connected with this going forth to do a work and to mediate. Firstly, Isaiah 55:11. Isaiah 55:11 reads, "...My Word that goes forth from My mouth - it does not return to Me empty, but shall do what I please, and shall certainly accomplish what I sent it for." Secondly, Psalm 33:6. Psalm 33:6 reads, "By the Word of YHWH the heavens were made, And all their host by the Spirit of His mouth."

Based on Isaiah 51:16, Isaiah 55:11 and Psalm 33:6, several facts emerge. The Greater Personage took His words, placed them into the mouth of the Lesser Personage. This Lesser Personage possessed the Words and went forth to create the heavens and earth. Therefore, precisely stated; from the mouth of both the Greater Personage and the mouth of the Lesser Personage, the heavens and earth were created. Although, it was the power in the Words that did the actual creating. Jeremiah 10:12 is proof of this statement. Jeremiah 10:12 reads, "He has made the earth by His power, He has established the world by His wisdom, and has stretched out the heavens by His understanding."

The two-in-one YHWH speak in unison; which is also to say, the Words spoken came forth primarily from the Supreme Greater Personage, but secondary through the mouth of the Lesser Personage. The Lesser Personage is the conduit for the Greater Personage. Therefore, both speak as one - in unison. The Lesser Personage never spoke anything of His own, but spoke whatever the Greater Supreme Personage gave Him to speak as like what Messiah said during His earthly ministry in John 12:49. For this reason, the Elohim representative of the two, who appeared to Jacob can say, "'I am El Shaddia." Again, the Lesser Personage never spoke anything of His own, but only that which He was given to speak.

For the third example demonstrating the High Supreme Father, the greater Personage was not the Personage who directly interfaced with the people of the bible, I bring your attention to Exodus 3.

Exodus 3:2 begins with, "And the MESSENGER of YHWH appeared to him (Moses) in the flame of fire from the midst of the bush. ..."

Firstly, this Personage who is in the flame of fire, in the bush, is THE MESSENGER OF YHWH. This Being is not the Greater Supreme Personage who appeared in front of Moses, but rather the lesser Personage.

Continuing... Exodus 3:7-8 reads, (v:7) "And YHWH said, "I have indeed seen the oppression of My people who are in Egypt, and have heard their cry because of their slave-masters, for I know their sorrows." (v:8) "And I have come down to deliver them from the hand of the Egyptians..."

Secondly, YHWH is speaking. YHWH speaks through this Messenger that has been given His Word to speak. Because this Messenger possesses the Word, this makes Him a real part of YHWH. For proof of this, now specifically notice verse eight. YHWH said, "I HAVE COME DOWN." Did the Higher Personage come down? If so, how can this be when the Spiritual Personage within the Bush has already been identified as the Messenger? The answer is simple. This Messenger is part of Elohim because it is unified with the Word Spirit which is a real part of YHWH. Thus, the Messenger is an extension of YHWH. Thus, a real part of YHWH.

Continuing... Exodus 3:13 reads, "And Moses said to Elohim, "See, when I come to the children of Israel and say to them, 'The Elohim of your fathers has sent me to you,' and they say to me, 'What is His Name?' What shall I say to them?"

Thirdly, Moses CALLED the MESSENGER by the title ELOHIM. And, Moses said this Elohim was the Elohim of their fathers. So, in others words, it was this same Messenger/Elohim who interacted and interfaced with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Continuing... Exodus 3:14 reads, "And Elohim said to Moses, 'I am that which I am.' " And He (the Messenger) said, 'Thus you shall say to the children of Israel, 'I AM has sent me to you.' "

Fourthly, this Messenger has IDENTIFIED ELOHIM as 'I AM that which I AM' . As I have already demonstrated as fact number one; Elohim is plural in nature. Thus, the Name 'I AM that which I AM' shows the plurality of Elohim. There are two I AM's in the title; Elohim. Each Personage in the Name "YHWH" and in the title "Elohim" is an "I AM". The two "I AM's" are joined through the Word of the Greater Personage who placed His words in the lesser Personage's mouth (Isaiah 51:16). Although, they can be referred to in a singular fashion such as like the last sentence in Exodus 3:14: 'I AM has sent me to you.' (Further proof of this statement will be addressed in main fact #6.)

Before presenting the last verse evidence in Exodus 3, I will briefly review the facts already demonstrated for Exodus 3.

1. The Spiritual Personage in the burning bush is a Messenger. The definition of a Messenger is: one who is sent to deliver a message.
2. Moses called this Messenger, "Elohim" when he spoke to the Messenger.
3. The Messenger identified "Elohim" as, "I AM that which I AM."
4. YHWH spoke and said He had COME DOWN. The inference is: come down out of heaven.

To solidify the fact that this special Messenger, who is identified with Elohim, is a real part of YHWH; I now submit Exodus 3:16 as evidence.

Exodus 3:16 reads, "Go, and you shall gather the elders of Israel together, and say to them, 'YHWH Elohim of your fathers, the Elohim of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob appeared to me, saying I have indeed visited you and seen what is done to you in Egypt."

The word "APPEARED" found in this verse was translated from the Hebrew word, "raw-aw", a root word which is Strong's Exhaustive Concordance #7200. It both literally and figuratively means: to see.

With this definition in mind, now know that this Messenger told Moses to tell the elders of Israel: he, Moses literally and figuratively saw YHWH Elohim.

As a repeat, Exodus 3:16 reads, "Go, and you shall gather the elders of Israel together, and say to them, 'YHWH Elohim of your fathers, the Elohim of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob appeared to me, saying I have indeed visited you and seen what is done to you in Egypt."

This Messenger is obviously not the Supreme Greater Personage; however, He is an unusual and distinctive Messenger. And, this Messenger possesses a Spiritual essence to which He is able to consider Himself a part of the Name YHWH Elohim. Again, this special Messenger is speaking for the Higher Supreme Personage. He possesses the Words that was placed within His mouth to do so as Isaiah 51:16 demonstrates. The WORD Spirit essence is what makes Him a part of YHWH Elohim.

[Side note: one reason for the controversy and debate whether YHWH is one in nature or two in nature is because the Greater Personage speaks through the Lesser Personage's mouth (Isaiah 51:16)]

Now, For the fourth and final example (but certainly not limited to) demonstrating the Greater Supreme Personage was not the Personage who directly interacted face to face with the people of the bible, I bring your attention to Exodus 24:9-11. In this passage, Moses, Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and the seventy of the elders of Israel went up on the mountain to solidify the covenant between the children of Israel and Elohim. Exodus 24:10-11 read, (v:10) "and they saw the Elohim of Israel, and under His feet like a paved work of sapphire stone, and like the heavens for brightness." (v:11) "Yet He did not stretch out His hand against the chiefs of the children of Israel! And they saw Elohim, and they ate and drank." This "HIS" and "HE" Personage is identified as Elohim of Israel. As I have already demonstrated, Elohim was directly identified with a Messenger in the case of Jacob and an earlier event with Moses. That Messenger Personage who represented the plural Elohim was the same Messenger that interfaced with Moses and the others on the mountain. It is this same Messenger that was given the Words of the Greater Personage within the Name YHWH to go forth and accomplish what the Greater Personage desired.

This special Messenger, the conduit for the Greater Supreme Personage, is spoken of in Isaiah 63. This special Messenger was known as, " the Messenger of His Presence" Isaiah 63:9-12 reads, (v:9) "In all their distress He was distressed, and the Messenger of His Presence saved them. In His love and in His compassion, He redeemed them, and lifted them up and carried them all the days of old." (v:10) "But they rebelled and grieved His Set-apart Spirit, so He turned against them as an enemy, and He fought against them." (v:11) "Then He remembered the days of old, Moses, His people,..."

The fact shown that the Greater Supreme Personage did not interface with the men of old, but with the secondary, lesser Personage concurs with three scriptures in the book of John. John 1:18 reads, no one has ever seen God. (The inference is the Supreme Personage.) John 6:46 reads, no one has ever seen the Father. 1 John 4:12 reads, no one has ever seen God at anytime. (Again, the inference is the Supreme Personage.) And, John 5:37 reads, you have not heard the Father's voice or seen His form.

With the facts presented and demonstrated, main fact six can be rightly established.
FACT #FIVE: The Greater Supreme Personage was not the Personage who directly interacted face to face with the people of the bible. The mediating was performed by a Messenger and identified with and as the title "Elohim" and the Name "YHWH". This Messenger was the same Personage that possessed the Word who created the heavens and earth.

I will now address and establish main fact number six which is: Yahushua Messiah identified Himself as an "I AM" during His ministry while He was of the flesh. And, our very salvation depends upon the belief that He is an "I AM" which will be demonstrated within this section.

The people who accept Messiah, but believe in only a single YHWH, dismiss Messiah's "I AM" statements in the new testament as merely vernacular statements rather than statements of identification.

I will present four "I AM" statements made by Yahushua Messiah which demonstrate He is one of the "I AM's" written in Exodus 3:14. But, before I proceed in doing so, it is extremely important to hearken back to the law which demonstrates that one human life is merely worth one life, not the entirety of mankind as like Yahushua Messiah's life was.

Exodus 21:23-24, Deuteronomy 19:21, and Jeremiah 31:30 all reveal that one man's life is only worth just that, one life. The command is: "life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, and foot for foot." The law, "life for life" shows one man's life is only worth and equal to one life. The law does not states, "life for lives". The life of one created human mortal man cannot equate to the total sum of mankind.

For my first example and demonstration of the "I AM" statements, I submit John 8:58-59, the most famous "I AM" statement Yahushua Messiah made that has been already debunked by the single YHWH believers. John 8:58-59 reads, (v:58) "The Yehudim; therefore, said to Him, 'You are not yet fifty years old, and have You seen Abraham?" (v:59) "Yahushua said to them, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham came to be, I AM.' "

According to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance, the word "AM" was translated from the Greek word, "i-mee", Strong's #1510, which means: "I exist, am, have been X it is I, was." Because of this definition of the "AM" word, I can rightly insert the particular definition, "I exist" instead of "I AM". It would then read as the following: "The Yehudim; therefore, said to Him, 'You are not yet fifty years old, and have You seen Abraham?" (v:59) "Yahushua said to them, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham came to be, I EXIST.' "

The single YHWH believers assert the "I AM" to mean: "the one, the Messiah". Their claim is this: "Not only, says Jesus, did Abraham look forward eagerly to the Messiah's coming day, but, even before Abraham was born, Jesus was "the one, the Messiah." He was the reason for the whole creation."

Hypothetically, if this statement in John 8:58-59 was not meant to identify Yahushua Messiah as one of the I AM's, then this statement is grammatically incorrect even in the Greek language. It would have been grammatically correct to say, I WAS which is a past tense verb. As for example, "Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham came to be, I was." Or, as like the single YHWH believers would prefer the reading of it, "Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham came to be, I was the One, the Messiah." However, this statement was not made. But, rather Messiah said, "'Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham came to be, I AM.' " The statement, "I AM" is in the present tense, and reveals He was and is a part of Elohim. He is not a past tense, but EXISTS.

Additionally, because the definition of the word, "AM" equates to "EXIST", this fact reinforces that Yahushua Messiah existed before Abraham as like the sentence reads and as like I have proved within the previous main fact demonstrations.

The Jews understood the meaning of Messiah's statement, and picked-up stones to throw at Him for His statement (Reference verse 59 of John 58). The Jews knew exactly what Messiah said because Messiah's claim was: their God. For this statement, the Jews were angry and wanted to stone Him.

There are several places in the New Testament where Yahushua responded and said, "I AM". Although, there is one place where it clearly demonstrates more than a mere vernacular response as some claim. For my second example and demonstration, I present John 18:1-6 as evidence. In John 18:1-6, when the company of soldiers from the chief priests and Pharisees came to arrest Messiah in the garden, Messiah asked them, "whom do you seek?" And, they answered and said, "Yahushua of Nazareth." And, then Messiah responded and simply said, "I AM". These simple words spoken by Yahushua Messiah were so powerful that it caused the entire company of soldiers to fall backward to the ground. Rephrased: Yahushua Messiah simply uttered His Name and it was powerful enough to make His opponents fall to the ground. I dare hear someone retort and say that these words were merely a vernacular response!

For my third example and demonstration, I bring your attention to Luke 21:8. Luke 21:8 reads, "And He said, 'See that you are not lead astray, for many shall come in My Name, saying, 'I AM' and 'the time is near.'" Messiah clearly identified Himself as an I AM. The false-messiah's will claim this Name. Mark 13:6 corresponds and is the same statement account of this; although, Mark 13:6 reads, 'I AM He.' Know this: within the Greek, the word, "He" is absent. It does not exist. Again, there will be false-messiah's who will make claim to Messiah's Name, "I AM".

Before I present the fourth "I AM" statement made by Yahushua Messiah, I will interject and submit one scripture from the old testament, Isaiah 48:16 as auxiliary evidence.

Isaiah 48:16 reads, "Come near to Me, hear this: I have not spoken in secret, from the beginning; from the time that it was, I WAS THERE. And now the Master YHWH has sent Me, and His Spirit." This verse tells the reader - LISTEN! Since time began as we know it, this Personage existed. The Greater Supreme Personage sent forth His Spirit - the Word along with the Personage making the statement. This verse is important to take notice of for two reasons. One reason, because it says so. And, the second reason, the important message is: the proclaiming Personage existed since time began and was sent forth with the Spirit.

To all of those who have doubting minds whether or not Yahushua preexisted and was represented within the Name YHWH, ask yourself this question: if there is only a one-in-number YHWH, then WHO IS THIS PERSONAGE that just stated in Isaiah 48:16, "Come near to Me, hear this: I have not spoken in secret, from the beginning; from the time that it was, I WAS THERE. And now the Master YHWH has sent Me, and His Spirit."? It certainly wasn't Isaiah. He wasn't alive at the beginning, at the time of Genesis. And, it's certainly not referring to the Supreme Greater Personage - the Master YHWH because He was the One doing the sending forth. So, who made this proclamation and existed from the beginning? (If you want to know the answer, it can be found in the previous scriptures, specifically verses 12 and 13. This Proclaiming Personage claims to be the first and the last as like Yahushua Messiah does in Revelation 1:8)

Now, for the fourth example and demonstration, which is my final, I present John 8:23-25. (Note: this final demonstration of I AM statements is not the exhaustive list.) John 8:23-25 reads, (v:23) "And He (Messiah) said to them, 'You are from below, I am from above. You are of this world, I am not of this world." (v:24) "Therefore I said to you that you shall die in your sins. For IF YOU DO NOT BELIEVE THAT I AM (He), YOU SHALL DIE IN YOUR SINS.'" (Note: again, the word "He" after "I AM" does not exist in the Greek.) (v:25) "Then they said to Him, 'Who are You?' And Yahushua said to them, 'Altogether that which I even say to you!'"

If you don't believe Messiah is the lesser "I AM", YOU SHALL DIE IN YOUR SINS! For this reason, this doctrine and understanding thereof is salvational.

To solidify this statement of fact, read Isaiah 45:21-22. (v:21) reads, "...Is it not I, YHWH? And there is no mighty One besides Me, a righteous El and Saviour, there is none besides Me." This verse contains the singular form of Elohim, which is El. It is this specific El who is the sole Savior of mankind. He is the interfacing Savior; although, He is not separate from the Supreme Personage in the Name YHWH. This single El was the One who came to this earth in the flesh and died. Without Him, we all would die and stay in our graves! (v:22) reads, "Turn to Me and be saved, all you ends of the earth! For I am El, and there is none else."

If for some reason there are doubting minds regarding the facts presented in this presentation, especially whether or not Messiah was and is a God/El, you need to read John 20:28. After His resurrection, Yahushua Messiah confronted doubting Thomas. Messiah told Thomas to bring his hand and put his finger into Messiah's side. In John 20:28, Thomas replied in total astonishment, "My Master and my God!" Thomas directly called Yahushua Messiah, his God. Messiah didn't correct Thomas, but told Thomas in verse 29, "Thomas, because you have seen Me you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed."

Do you believe Yahushua Messiah is your direct Master and God? If not, you will die in your sins.

To summarize this whole presentation, I will restate the main facts.

FACT #1. Elohim is plural in nature.

FACT #2. Elohim is YHWH, therefore the Name YHWH also possesses plurality.

FACT #3. There are two mighty Personages in the Name YHWH. The two represent the plurality. And, the second or rather lesser of the two Personages, did the hands-on creating of the heavens and the earth. Although, the greater Personage made it possible for the lesser Personage to do the work.

FACT #4.
a) Yahushua Messiah preexisted as AZ and was the hands-on creator and lesser Personage that carried forth the Words of the Greater Personage spoken of in Isaiah 51:16.

b) Yahushua Messiah is the inheritor of everything from His Father. Based upon this fact, the Personage in the old testament that Moses and other prophets of old beseeched, the One identified by the Name YHWH, and specifically referred to as the inheritor of the Israelites, is the Personage that became Yahushua Messiah. He is the one who held the promises of the inheritance. Yahushua Messiah is the inheritor of everything which includes the Israelites. Additionally, He is the King of Zion and the subjects are His.

FACT #5. The Greater Supreme Personage was not the Personage who directly interfaced with the people of the bible. The mediating was performed by a Messenger and identified with and as the title "Elohim" and the Name "YHWH". This Messenger was the same Personage that possessed the Word who created the heavens and earth.

FACT #6. Yahushua Messiah is an "I AM". He was the lesser Personage who contracted with the people of old. It was this very "I AM" who was destined to die for the entirety of mankind. Our very salvation depends upon the belief that He is "I AM".

It is important to know who the One is that died for you!