Elohim.
General name for God in the OT. The etymology of Elohim is uncertain, but it is generally agreed that it is based on a root that means “might” or “power.” The word is plural in form, but when applied to the true God it is used in a singular sense and most frequently with verbal elements. The most common explanation for the plural form of Elohim as applied to God is that it is “plural of majesty,” that is, all the majesty of deity is encompassed by him.
Elohim also occurs as a designation of deity in other languages, such as Assyrian and Ugaritic; it is used of other nations’ gods, thus demonstrating its more general sense. It seems to be used in a general sense in the OT, particularly the Pentateuch (the five books of Moses), denoting God’s transcendence and capacity as Creator of the universe. It is thus somewhat different from the designation Yahweh, which usually connotes God in his personal relationships to people.
Elohim is used as a designation of Israel’s rulers and judges (Ps 82:1, 6), perhaps denoting their function as God’s earthly representatives (Ex 21:6). That meaning of the word was used by Christ (Jn 10:34–36) in a defense against his detractors.
The word is also used of angelic beings (Ps 8:5 KJV; cf. Heb 2:7), and in the expression “sons of God” (Jb 1:6).
Walter A. Elwell and Barry J. Beitzel, Baker Encyclopedia of the Bible (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Baker Book House, 1988). 697.
