What is the meaning of "Elohim"?

Overview and Etymology

Elohim is a Hebrew term that appears frequently in the Old Testament, often translated into English as “God.” In Hebrew script, the word is spelled אֱלֹהִים (ʾĕlōhîm). It is a plural form of the more general term for deity, “El” (אֵל), yet when referring to the one true God in Scripture, it is normally used with singular grammatical forms. This interplay of a plural form with singular usage points to a richness in meaning that transcends ordinary categories.

Despite its broader linguistic background in ancient Semitic cultures, Elohim in the Bible uniquely designates the supreme Creator and sovereign Lord. The usage underscores His majesty, power, and absolute distinction from all that has been created.

Biblical Usage in Context

The Old Testament employs Elohim well over 2,000 times. One of the most foundational verses that employs this name is Genesis 1:1:

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1).

Here, Elohim is presented as the transcendent Creator of all things. Not only does this highlight God’s unparalleled ability to create ex nihilo (out of nothing), but it also celebrates His sole authority and dominion over the entire created order.

In other passages, Elohim is used in a broader sense for false gods, powerful beings, or even human judges, though these are understood to be subordinate to or far lesser than the one true and living Elohim. For example:

“God presides in the divine assembly; He renders judgment among the gods:” (Psalm 82:1).

Here, the same Hebrew term can denote spiritual beings or human rulers under God’s authority, further accentuating God’s ultimate supremacy.

Plural Form and Singular Meaning

A hallmark of the word Elohim is its grammatical plurality. Yet when it describes the one Creator, the surrounding verbs and pronouns usually appear in the singular. This grammatical phenomenon has stirred many discussions. In the biblical context, the interpretation that God is one being (Deuteronomy 6:4) while possessing a complex unity fits with the plural form’s linguistic nuance.

Some have called this a “plural of majesty” to express God’s greatness and comprehensive power. Others observe that it foreshadows the full revelation of God’s triunity, consistent with statements found later in Scripture about the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Whichever approach one takes, the Old Testament usage consistently affirms the oneness, sovereignty, and uniqueness of the God of Israel.

Examples in the Hebrew Bible

1. Creation Narrative (Genesis 1:1–2:3). The first chapters of Genesis repeatedly refer to God as Elohim in describing the creation of everything from light to the first humans. The primary emphasis is on His unparalleled creative authority.

2. Covenant and Promise (Genesis 17:7). “I will establish My covenant as an everlasting covenant between Me and you and your descendants after you, to be your God (Elohim) and the God of your descendants after you”. This underscores the relational aspect of Elohim, who personally engages with humanity through covenants.

3. The Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4). “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is One!”. The Hebrew text here uses Elohim to reinforce the unique oneness of the Lord.

4. Psalm 82:1. Elohim is used for both God (the Judge) and the “gods” in the divine council. This contrast makes it clear that any other so-called “gods” are subordinate and subject to the true Elohim.

Archaeological and Cultural Background

Outside the Bible, ancient Near Eastern tablets and inscriptions—most famously from Ugarit—reference El as a chief deity. These materials help modern scholars see how biblical authors employed the known term for deity yet infused it with an inspired understanding of the one true God who stands above any pagan conception.

Various artifacts from Mesopotamia and Canaan demonstrate that the biblical authors lived among cultures that worshiped multiple gods—often local, specialized patrons. In contrast, Genesis 1:1 insists on a single Creator over all. This understanding is foundational for viewing Scripture as a historical record of God’s progressive revelation, culminating in a final and definitive truth about who Elohim is: one all-powerful, personal, and eternal being.

Theological Significance

Elohim denotes God’s infinite power, supreme authority, and His role as the all-encompassing Creator of the universe. The Holy Scriptures, upheld by a vast manuscript tradition, consistently present Elohim as transcendent yet intimately involved with humanity.

• Creator and Sustainer – Genesis 1:1 introduces God as the Maker of all that exists, indicating supreme intelligence and purposeful design reflected in the complexities of life.

• Covenant-Maker – The biblical record, confirmed at multiple junctures by archaeological and textual studies (e.g., the Tel Dan Inscription lending context to biblical kingdoms), reveals a God who binds Himself to His people, showing covenant fidelity.

• Redeemer – Although the term Elohim underscores God’s majesty, Scripture also testifies to His redemptive plan carried forward in time, culminating in the Messiah’s sacrifice and resurrection.

Christological Connection

While the Old Testament does not reveal the full complexity of God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, the plural nature of Elohim can serve as an early indicator of this truth. In the New Testament, Jesus the Messiah is clearly affirmed to be divine (John 1:1, 14; Hebrews 1:8). The resurrection of Christ—documented by compelling historical evidence and corroborated by numerous eyewitnesses (1 Corinthians 15:3–8)—vindicates His claim of deity and the Old Testament prophecies pointing to a divine Redeemer.

From creation to redemption, therefore, the meaning of Elohim extends to the fullness of God’s revelation: the Father, who initiates salvation; the Son, who accomplishes it; and the Holy Spirit, who applies it.

Practical Implications

Elohim reminds us that we are under the authority of the living, omnipotent God who fashioned every star and cell. It calls us toward humility and amazement. The significance of Elohim extends beyond intellectual comprehension: it urges worship, devotion, and a recognition of our dependence upon Him for existence, purpose, and—for those who receive it—eternal salvation.

This name helps believers communicate that the Creator is not distant or impersonal. Rather, Elohim is the relational God who redeems and dwells among His people, offering ultimate hope and assurance in a world that seeks answers to life’s biggest questions.

Conclusion

Elohim carries a wealth of meaning in Scripture. It emphasizes God’s supreme power, reveals His distinctiveness from all other entities, and points to His involvement in creation and covenant. From the earliest chapters of Genesis to His culminating work in Christ’s resurrection, Elohim is presented as the one and only, almighty God—eternal, sovereign, and worthy of all worship.

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” (Genesis 1:1)

This statement heralds the foundational truth about Elohim. It yields profound insight into God’s character, culminating in a call to recognize Him, worship Him, and yield to His divine purpose in all aspects of life.