Plural of Majesty

Definition and Meaning

The plural of majesty (Latin pluralis maiestatis) is a usage in which a plural form refers to a single person or thing in order to convey honor and majesty. It is also called the "majestic plural" or the "royal plural." A common example is the practice of European monarchs referring to themselves as "we" instead of "I." In Hebrew grammar it is sometimes discussed alongside the "plural of excellence" (pluralis excellentiae), which expresses greatness or superiority.

Biblical and Historical Background

The Hebrew word Elohim, which refers to God, is plural in form. When it refers to the God of Israel, however, it usually takes a singular verb; for example, the verb "created" in Genesis 1:1 is singular. Elohim is also used of a single pagan deity, such as Chemosh, the god of Moab, in Judges 11:24. On the basis of such usage, Hebrew grammarians have explained this plural form not as an indication of number but as a plural of majesty or a plural of excellence.

The "us" in Genesis 1:26 ("in our image, after our likeness"), Genesis 3:22, Genesis 11:7, and Isaiah 6:8 is discussed in connection with the same question. Interpretations fall into the following categories:

• Many early Church Fathers and numerous later Christian interpreters regarded this "us" as an allusion to the persons of the Trinity.
• Jewish exegetical tradition includes an interpretation in which God consults with heavenly beings such as angels.
• Some scholars regard it as a plural of majesty or as a "plural of deliberation," in which the speaker resolves upon a course of action within himself.

The Reformer John Calvin is also known to have urged caution, in his commentary on Genesis, against using the plural form Elohim by itself as proof of the Trinity.

In Korean Churches

Korean Bible translations such as the New Korean Revised Version render Elohim with a singular word for "God" while retaining the "us" of Genesis 1:26. In Korean seminary Hebrew courses, the plural form of Elohim is often taught as a plural of majesty. In sermons and Bible studies, by contrast, the "us" of Genesis 1:26 is commonly presented as an allusion to the Trinity, and the two explanations are often presented together. Differences of interpretation on this question tend to reflect the hermeneutical approaches of individual interpreters rather than falling clearly along denominational lines.

The World Mission Society Church of God, a Korean religious group, cites the plural form of Elohim and the "us" of Genesis 1:26–27 as grounds for its claim that there is a God the Mother alongside God the Father. The group describes this view as the result of reading the Bible literally. In response, cult counseling workers and theologians from various denominations have offered rebuttals, pointing out that Elohim is used with singular verbs and citing the usage of the plural of majesty. The assessments of this group by various denominations are discussed in the article on heresy designations.