Elohim is
one of the primary Hebrew names
for God in the Old Testament.
It is the first name used for God in Scripture
and appears more than 2,500 times.
While it is a plural form,
when it refers to the God of Israel
it is almost always used with
singular verbs and adjectives,
pointing to the one true God
in the fullness of
His power and majesty.
The exact origin of the word is debated, but it is related to concepts of strength, power, and might. In the Bible, Elohim is used in several ways depending on the context:
When the biblical writers speak of the God of Israel as Elohim, the context makes the meaning clear: He is the supreme, all-powerful Creator and Ruler.
The Bible opens with the words:
“In the beginning, God [Elohim] created the heavens and the earth.” (Genesis 1:1)
Throughout the creation account, Elohim is the name used. It emphasizes God as the powerful, sovereign Creator who speaks the universe into existence by His word. The repeated phrase “And God said” highlights His authority and creative power.
Elohim is grammatically plural, yet when it refers to the true God it takes singular verbs (e.g., “God created,” not “Gods created”). This has been understood in different ways:
The Old Testament consistently affirms that there is only one God (Deuteronomy 6:4), even while using this plural form. The New Testament revelation of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit brings fuller light to the richness already suggested by the language of Scripture.
Elohim often appears together with other names and titles of God:
While Yahweh emphasizes God’s personal, covenant relationship with His people, Elohim emphasizes His transcendent power as Creator and sovereign Lord over all.
Elohim presents God as the majestic, all-powerful Creator who stands above all other powers and authorities. From the opening verse of Scripture, this name calls us to recognize the one true God who made heaven and earth and who alone is worthy of worship. Combined with His other names, it gives us a fuller picture of the God who is both transcendent in power and near in covenant love.