עִמָּנוּאֵל (im.ma.nu.el)
im.ma.nu.el
Immanuel
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The proper noun Immanuel translates directly to "God with us" or "with us is God." It appears only twice in the Hebrew Bible, most notably in Isaiah 7:14 as a sign given to King Ahaz during a time of political crisis. The name functions as a symbolic prophecy, indicating that despite immediate threats, God remains present with His people.
While the original context points to a child born in the eighth century BC, the New Testament identifies this figure as Jesus Christ. Matthew 1:23 cites Isaiah to show that Jesus embodies this promise, serving as the ultimate fulfillment where the divine presence dwells among humanity. The name thus bridges the ancient prophetic hope and the Christian confession of God's incarnate presence.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Immanuel means "God with us." In Isaiah 7:14, this word was given as a sign to King Ahaz during a time of great fear and political crisis. It reminded Israel that God had not abandoned them in their darkest hour. His presence was the true source of security, far greater than any military alliance or human power could provide.
For you today, this name offers a deep sense of comfort. You do not face your struggles alone. The promise that God is with us is not just a historical fact but a living reality for every believer. Whether you are walking through a valley of shadow or standing in the light of joy, His presence remains constant.
This truth anchors our faith. We can trust that the same God who promised to be with His people in ancient times is present with us now. This assurance brings peace that goes beyond understanding and steadies our hearts when the world feels unstable.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- -el2×
- O Immanu-1×
- Immanu-1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- עִמָּ֥נוּ2×
- אֵֽל\׃\ \ס1×
- אֵֽל\׃1×
Key Verses
-
Isaiah 7:14
Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin will conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
This verse introduces the name as a divine sign of hope during a time of national fear, establishing the core meaning of God's presence.
-
Isaiah 8:8
It will sweep onward into Judah. It will overflow and pass through. It will reach even to the neck. The stretching out of its wings will fill the width of your land, O Immanuel.
Here the name serves as a direct address to God, affirming that even when enemies sweep through the land, His presence protects the nation.