What does Elohim mean?
Quick answer
Elohim is the most common Hebrew name for God in the OT — a plural form used as a singular, emphasizing his power, majesty, and fullness. It is the name used in Genesis 1: "In the beginning, God (Elohim) created…"
The plural form does not mean many gods; it is a "plural of majesty" common in Hebrew.
Some see in Elohim a hint of the Trinity unfolded later in Scripture. Whatever the case, it points to God as fully sufficient, the only true God.
Used over 2,500 times in the OT. To know Elohim is to know the One who made all things by his word.
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Original BibleDawn answer · reviewed 2026-06. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.