When is God first referred to as Father in the Bible? The earliest explicit reference appears in Deuteronomy 32:6, where Moses describes God as the Father of Israel. This important passage reveals not only God’s power but also His care, provision, and covenant relationship with His people.
When Is God First Referred To As Father In The Bible?
The first clear reference is found in Deuteronomy 32:6:
“Is not he thy Father that hath bought thee? Hath he not made thee, and established thee?”
In this song, Moses reminds Israel that God is not only their Creator but also their covenant Father. The term emphasizes His role in forming, sustaining, and guiding His people.
Names of God Before He Is Called Father
Before Deuteronomy 32:6, the Old Testament uses several names and titles for God:
- Elohim – Creator and Almighty God
- Adonai – Lord or Master
- Jehovah (YHWH) – The eternal “I AM”
- El Shaddai – Almighty or all-sufficient God
- El Elyon – Most High God
- El Olam – Everlasting God
These titles primarily highlight God’s majesty, authority, and eternal nature. The title “Father” adds a more personal and relational dimension.
What Does the Title “Father” Mean?
When Moses calls God “Father,” he introduces several important ideas:
- Provision – God provides for His people.
- Protection – God guides and defends them.
- Relationship – God is personally connected to His covenant people.
The emphasis is not on physical parenthood but on God’s covenant commitment to Israel.
How Often Is God Called Father?
The title appears relatively rarely in the Old Testament but becomes much more common in the New Testament through the teachings of Jesus.
The Old Testament contains approximately 10–15 references, while the New Testament contains about 140–150 references. Jesus’ teachings greatly expand the understanding of God as Father.
God as Father in the New Testament
Jesus places the Fatherhood of God at the center of worship and prayer.
For example, in Matthew 6:9, Jesus teaches His disciples to pray:
“Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.”
This shifts the focus from God as the Father of a nation to God as the Father whom individual believers can approach personally.
Conclusion
When is God first referred to as Father in the Bible? The first explicit reference appears in Deuteronomy 32:6, where Moses describes God as the Father of Israel.
This title introduces a relational aspect of God’s character that complements earlier names emphasizing His power and majesty. The theme continues throughout Scripture and becomes central in the teachings of Jesus Christ, who invites believers to know God as their Father.
Related studies:
- How Many Times Is God Called Father in the Bible?
- Who Is God the Father in the Bible?
- Did Abraham Call God the Father in the Bible?
Additional Bible resources:




