EL OLAM: THE EVERLASTING GOD

The Meaning of El Olam

El Olam (EL o-LAM) means "The Everlasting God" or "Eternal God." The Hebrew word Olam is used over 400 times in the Bible, translated as "eternal," "everlasting," "forever," or "ancient." It expresses the fullness of time and space, signifying a God who exists beyond the limits of time.

God’s Timelessness

As El Olam, God is the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End. He has no beginning and no end, existing forever. His purposes and plans stand firm throughout all generations. The Bible emphasizes that God’s love endures eternally, and His covenant is as timeless as He is.

• The title El Olam appears only four times in Scripture, but God's everlasting nature is a recurring theme in His attributes, promises, laws, and kingdom.

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Praying to El Olam

Abraham and the Tamarisk Tree

Genesis 21:25-34 recounts the story of Abraham planting a tamarisk tree by a well where he worshipped El Olam. In the Middle East, where water is scarce, wells were extremely valuable, often leading to disputes. After securing ownership of a well, Abraham planted a tamarisk next to it, making a significant choice that illustrates God's enduring qualities.

Why a Tamarisk?

1. Water Hog: Tamarisk trees require a lot of water, so Abraham likely chose this well because of its abundant water supply, symbolizing God's unending provision.
2. Quick Growth: The tree grows up to a foot per month, offering shade and relief from the harsh climate, much like God's enduring presence provides comfort.
3. Hardy and Resilient: The tamarisk is resistant to disease and insects, representing God's strength and invulnerability. It can regenerate after being cut down, symbolizing God's eternal nature.
4. Dominates Its Environment: By depositing salt into the soil, the tamarisk discourages the growth of other plants, just as El Olam remains unchallenged by any other gods.

Planting the tamarisk was a reminder that El Olam is a steadfast God, unaffected by the passage of time, and whose plans and purposes endure forever.

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A Prayer to El Olam

El Olam, the Everlasting God, I put my trust in you alone. Your strength is beyond measure, and your years are endless. Though my life is short and my strength is limited, I rest in your promise to be with me always, even in the harshest circumstances. You have carried me from my birth and will sustain me in my old age. I trust in your everlasting love and rely on your promise to support and save me.

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Promises Associated with the Name El Olam

• "Yahweh’s plan stands firm forever." (Psalm 33:11)

• "He [Elohim] has put a sense of eternity in people’s minds." (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

• "My Father wants all those who see the Son and believe in him to have eternal life. He wants me to bring them back to life on the last day." (John 6:40)

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El Olam—the Everlasting God—invites us to place our hope in His unchanging nature. He promises to be with us always, sustaining us through every challenge and ensuring that His plans for us will endure forever. As we rely on His eternal promises, we can rest assured that His love will never fail.