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 object in order to convey that person's or object's honor and majesty. It is also called the "majestic plural" or the "royal plural." A commonly cited example is the practice of European monarchs referring to themselves as "we" in place 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 is usually construed with a singular verb; the verb "created" in Genesis 1:1, for example, 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 is consulting 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 reported to have urged caution, in his commentary on Genesis, against using the plural form Elohim by itself as proof of the Trinity.

Practice in the Korean Church

Korean Bibles such as the New Korean Revised Version render Elohim with the singular Hananim ("God") while retaining the "us" of Genesis 1:26. In 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 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 various denominations' assessments of this group are discussed in the article on heresy designations.