God's Name
Question
How does Jews pronounce יהוה
Answer
Shalom!
Thank you for your question.
First of all, we do not use G-d’s name in the course of routine conversation. We only use it in prayer, and sometimes in study. When referring to G-d in routine conversation we generally use the word "Hashem" or “G-d.” The “names of G-d” that are considered holy and not for everyday conversation are: the "Yud-Hay-Vav-Hay" (often written in English as “Jeho-va”), Adon-ai, E-l, E-lohim, Eh-eyeh, Sha-ddai, and Tzv-aot.
The correct pronunciation of Y-H-V-H was lost during the Talmudic period. This name was used as part of the Temple Service during the First Temple period. During the Second Temple period the name was not used as it was feared that the name would be misused or articulated unlawfully. As a result of this disuse of the Y-H-V-H the correct pronunciation of “The” Name was lost.
Nevertheless, since we are dealing with such a sacred matter, we should not use the word “Jeho-va” at all whether or not it is correct. And, as mentioned, even if the actual letters are correct, no one knows the accurate vowelization, and therefore, it is clear that the tradition on how to pronounce it is lost.
Due to the doubt on how to pronounce the holy Name of G-d, and due to its extreme holiness, we use the name “Adon-ai” when praying instead (which is also holy). In some cases “Elo-him” and “Shadd-ai” along with the other names are sometimes used – all of whom are holy and not used in regular conversation.