Elohim meaning

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1. Of Judges and God

   Rabbi Alex Israel | 33 minutes

   After the dramatic Revelation with the Ten Dibrot on Har Sinai, we now move on to the practical examples of the “headlines” heard at Har Sinai. This shiur focuses on the rule about not cursing leaders ("Elohim" used along with "nasi"). Why is there a law specifically saying not to curse leaders (or God), and why is the term "Elohim" used here? We look at some different perspectives, aided by an examination of the appearance of “Elohim” meaning “leaders” or "judges" in different biblical contexts.

2. “For Judgment Belongs to God”

   Rabbi Gad Eldad

   We find a number of variable terms in the legal presentation of the laws of the Torah. Sometimes the command is addressed in the second person; at other times it is formulated in the third person. In addition, sometimes the term elohim refers to the judges, while in other instances it refers to God or to a spiritual entity. What is the nature of these differences? Through an exploration of the text we can reach a deep understanding of the laws based on these linguistic inconsistencies, and about the meaning of the term elohim as it relates to judgement. 

3. Ramban on Mishpatim: "Justice Belongs to God"

   Rabbi Ezra Bick | 34 minutes

   We will look at a comment of the Ramban on a pasuk that does not exist, but first we will look at one that does. We begin with the verse about the indentured servant who does not wish to leave his master. He is to be taken before judges in order to continue his arrangements – but the judges are referred to as “Elohim.” Why is this word used? The judges are God’s agents, as it were – but are they more than that? We find some interesting philosophical questions and insights about interplay between the fallibility or infallibility of judges – and God, the ultimate Judge.