elohim, the fire god

there are no capitals in biblical hebrew.
this presents a problem with the word "elohim" because in english we translate our "god's" name with a capital letter.

in the beginning <elohim> created…

additionally “elohim” is a plural noun translated in a singular form.

elohim can be translated as god, gods, or God;
the context usually determines the form that is used.

but in 1 kings 18:24 there is some ambiguity.
where should we capitalize the word elohim?

if elijah were to have written the verse in english, how would he have written it?

And you call upon the name of <‘your’ elohim>,
and I will call upon the name of YHWH,
and <‘the’ elohim> who answers by fire,
he is <[the] elohim>.”
And all the people answered, “It is well spoken.”
1 kings 18:24

for your responses, call the first instance of its use in the verse #1
the second instance #2
and the third instance #3.

along with your answers provide a reason for your response.

rob

 

correction

 

In the past John of Japan has written of the difficulties he has had translating the NT into Japanese because of its different forms of politeness, an aspect of language not found in Greek. What a predicament!

Most modern languages have a similar but not quite so difficult problem.
For even the capitalization of words is something that must be added to Scriptures by the necessity rules of modern grammar.

Here are four different versions and how they attempt to translate 1 Kings 18:24.

Then you call on the name of your god
and I will call on the name of the LORD;
the god who answers by fire is indeed God.”
All the people answered, “Well spoken!”
1 Kings 18:24 NRSV

And you call upon the name of your god,
and I will call upon the name of the LORD,
and the God who answers by fire, he is God.”
And all the people answered, “It is well spoken.”
1 Kings 18:24 ESV

Then you call on the name of your god,
and I will call on the name of Yahweh.
The God who answers with fire, He is God.”
All the people answered, “That ⌊sounds⌋ good.”
1 Kings 18:24 HCSB

Then you pray to your gods
and I’ll pray to GOD.
The god who answers with fire will prove to be, in fact, God.”
All the people agreed: “A good plan—do it!”
1 Kings 18:24 The Message

Is the difference important?
Does the difference between versions change its meaning?

Rob

 

Thanks, here’s my take:

1. “your god” –1 Kings 18 is a struggle between Baal and Yahweh.

2. “the god who answers by fire” – I like the second one uncapitalized because Elijah is taunting the prophets.

3. “He is God” – The third instance is the God of power, the true God… be that who it may. Elijah had faith in Yahweh.

You call on the name of your god and I’ll call on the name of Yahweh
The god who answers by fire, He is the God.
And all the people answered saying, “Good test.”

Rob