Seven names: YHVH, Kel, Elokim, Kel-okim, Ekyeh, Shakkai, and Tzevakot.
Question 2
What is the Rambam's position on creation?
The Rambam affirms creation ex nihilo — God brought everything, including time itself, into existence from absolute nothing.
Question 3
What about titles like "The Great" or "The Merciful" written about God?
Titles are descriptions of attributes, not names. They don't have the same sanctity and may be erased.
Question 4
What is unique about the Tetragrammaton compared to the other 6 sacred names?
The Tetragrammaton alone describes God's essence. The other 6 names describe His attributes or actions. This is why it's called "the explicit name."
Question 5
What happens if God were to "withdraw" His sustaining power?
The Rambam teaches that God continuously sustains all existence. If He withdrew His awareness for even a moment, everything would instantly cease to be.