“The Spirit of the LORD will come powerfully upon you, and you will prophesy with them; and you will be changed into a different person.”
—1 Samuel 10:6
In the brass plates, we encounter the terms Ruach Elohim and Ruach HaKodesh. Some may think these are just two names for the Holy Spirit. Yes… and no… These two sacred “winds” flow from the same divine source but play unique and beautiful roles in our spiritual lives. Let’s explore their mystical meanings, how they connect, and what makes each one special.
God’s Breath
Ruach Elohim (רוּחַ אֱלֹהִים) means “Spirit (or Breath) of God” or “Spirit (or Breath) of (the) Gods.” Ruach is breath, wind, or spirit. Elohim is a name for God, Eloh meaning “Goddess” but with the masculine plural “im.” The use of a plural here can mean more than one, as in one Goddess and multiple male Gods, and it can also emphasize divine power and majesty.
Ruach HaKodesh (רוּחַ הַקֹּדֶשׁ) means “Holy Spirit” or “Holy Breath.” HaKodesh means “the Holy” or “the Sacred.”
Both are ways to describe aspects of God’s Spirit moving in the world. Mormon Kabbalah invites us to see their distinct roles in the cosmic dance of creation and our spiritual journey.
Ruach Elohim: The Creative Breath of God
Think of Ruach Elohim as the divine breath of creation itself. When the universe was formless and void, it was Ruach Elohim that moved upon the waters, breathing life, order, and light into the chaos. It’s the dynamic, powerful energy that sparks beginnings and initiates divine action.
In Mormon Kabbalah, Ruach Elohim can be understood as one of the cosmic forces behind all creative processes, in the heavens, in nature, and within the soul. It is like God’s primal breath that sets spiritual realities in motion. This Spirit carries the potential and power to form and shape. Imagine It as the wind that sweeps across the empty sea, stirring the deep, preparing the way for life to blossom.
Ruach HaKodesh: The Personal Breath of Divine Guidance
On the other hand, Ruach HaKodesh is the intimate, sacred breath that moves within your heart and mind. It is the Comforter, Teacher, and Inspirer. It is the Spirit that whispers divine truth, heals, consoles, and reveals hidden mysteries. In Mormon Kabbalah Ruach HaKodesh is the Holy Spirit’s presence in personal revelation and spiritual growth. It acts as the guide, illuminating your path and awakening divine gifts.
“[God the Son, possessing] the same mind with the Father, which mind is the Holy Spirit, that bears record of the Father and the Son… which Spirit is shed forth upon all who believe on his name and keep his commandments…” —Lecture V:2n,2 t (Lectures on Faith/Theology of the Saints)
This Spirit connects the heavens and the earth within you, uniting your soul with God’s holiness. Picture it as a gentle, holy breeze that fills your lungs and lights your inner lamp.
Different Yet Working Together
Think of Ruach Elohim and Ruach HaKodesh as two parts of the same sacred breath, like the inhale and exhale of divine life. Ruach Elohim is the outward breath, spreading creation’s energy into the cosmos. Ruach HaKodesh is the inward breath, drawing divine presence into your personal spiritual experience. Together, they keep the cycle of creation and revelation flowing, from the vastness of the universe down to the deepest corners of your heart.
| Aspect | Ruach Elohim | Ruach HaKodesh |
| Meaning | Spirit/Breath of God (Creative) | Holy Spirit/Holy Breath (Personal) |
| Role | Cosmic Creator and Energizer | Guide, Comforter, and Inspirer |
| Scope | Universal, shaping all existence | Individual, touching your soul |
| Function | Brings order, life, and form | Brings revelation, peace, and growth |
| Image | Mighty wind over the deep waters | Gentle breeze within the heart |
The Invitation
By understanding Ruach Elohim and Ruach HaKodesh, we gain a richer sense of how God’s Spirit works both universally and personally. We Learn to recognize the difference between the powerful call to create and to act (Ruach Elohim) and the quiet whisper that guides and heals (Ruach HaKodesh). This helps us see spiritual life as a dance between cosmic energy and personal transformation.
Mormon Kabbalah invites you to become aware of these sacred winds breathing life into you and the world. Whether you feel called to create, inspire, or receive heavenly guidance, both Ruach Elohim and Ruach HaKodesh are working together within your soul, like two divine breaths, shaping your path back to God.
