The word heb. most frequently used for God (more than 2,500 times in the OT). Elohim is plural in form but singular in construction (used with a singular verb or adjective). When applied to the one true God, the plural is due to the idiom heb. of a plural of magnitude or majesty (Gen 1: 1). When used with reference to pagan gods (Gen 35: 2, Exo 18:11, Exo 20: 3, Jos 24:20) or angels (Job 1: 6, Psa 8: 5, Psa 97: 9) or judges ( Exo 21: 6; 1Sa 2:25) as representatives of God, Elohim is plural in sense as well as in form. The most probable roots mean either being strong or being in front, reflecting the power and preeminence of God. Jesus used a form of the name on the cross (Mat 27:46, Mar 15:34). See ELI, ELI, LAMA SABACTANI.