plural of אֱלוֹהַּ; gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme God; occasionally applied by way of deference to magistrates; and sometimes as a superlative; angels, [idiom] exceeding, God (gods) (-dess, -ly), [idiom] (very) great, judges, [idiom] mighty.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼĕlôhîym**, represented by `{{H430}}`, is the primary word for **God**. It appears **2606 times** across **2249 unique verses**, signifying its central role in scripture. While plural in form, it is specifically used to refer to the supreme God. It can also refer to gods in the ordinary sense, and is occasionally applied to magistrates or angels.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H430}}` is introduced as the Creator, who brought the heavens and the earth into existence [[Genesis 1:1]]. The term establishes a covenant relationship, as when the LORD promises, "I will be their God, and they shall be my people" [[Jeremiah 31:33]]. It is also used in deeply personal contexts, portraying God as a source of strength and comfort who is with His people. He is the God who promises not to forsake them ([[Isaiah 41:10]], [[Deuteronomy 31:6]]) and who fights for them [[Joshua 23:10]]. This term also defines the object of exclusive worship, as seen in the command to put away "strange gods `{{H430}}`" and serve the LORD only [[1 Samuel 7:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the nature of God and humanity's relationship with Him:
* `{{H1254}}` **bârâʼ** (to create): This root is fundamentally linked to the divine power of `{{H430}}`, as seen in the opening of Scripture where **God** created the heavens and the earth [[Genesis 1:1]]. It highlights God's unique role as the originator of all things.
* `{{H1875}}` **dârash** (to seek or require): This term defines the human response to `{{H430}}`, signifying the act of searching for or worshipping God. The LORD searches all hearts, and a central requirement for humanity is to walk humbly with their **God** ([[1 Chronicles 28:9]], [[Micah 6:8]]).
* `{{H5647}}` **ʻâbad** (to serve): This word describes the act of service and worship directed toward `{{H430}}`. The call to know **God** is directly connected to the command to **serve** him with a perfect heart and a willing mind [[1 Chronicles 28:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H430}}` is immense, establishing God as the ultimate source of reality.
* **Supreme Creator:** The name `{{H430}}` is first used to identify the creator of the heavens and the earth [[Genesis 1:1]]. This role is reinforced in prayers asking God to create a clean heart [[Psalms 51:10]].
* **Covenant God:** `{{H430}}` is the God who makes and keeps covenants. He promises to be Israel's **God**, and in return, they are to be His people, with His law written on their hearts [[Jeremiah 31:33]].
* **Personal Helper and Refuge:** God is not distant but is presented as a personal source of strength and help. He upholds His people [[Isaiah 41:10]], acts as their refuge [[Psalms 46:1]], and strengthens them in times of need [[1 Samuel 23:16]].
* **The One True God:** The term is used to assert divine uniqueness and sovereignty. The LORD declares, "beside me there is no **God**" [[Isaiah 44:6]], establishing the basis for monotheistic worship and the rejection of all other gods [[1 Samuel 7:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H430}}` is the foundational biblical term for God, encompassing His roles as the singular, supreme Creator and the personal, covenant-keeping deity. It describes the one who brought all things into being [[Genesis 1:1]], who calls His people into relationship with Himself [[Jeremiah 31:33]], and who serves as their constant source of strength and protection [[Isaiah 41:10]]. From the mighty Creator to the intimate guide who walks with His people [[Micah 6:8]], **ʼĕlôhîym** carries the full weight of divine identity, authority, and relationship in Scripture.
TRV