1 Kings 18:23
Let them therefore give us two bullocks; and let them choose one bullock for themselves, and cut it in pieces, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under: and I will dress the other bullock, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under:
1 Kings 18:23 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from 1 Kings 18:23, the prophet Elijah challenges the prophets of Baal to a test of their faith in the one true God. Elijah proposes that they each prepare a sacrifice by placing a bull on wood, but not setting fire to it. Elijah suggests that the true God will answer by sending fire from heaven to consume the sacrifice. This test was a way for Elijah to prove that God is the one true God who has power over all other false gods. By asking the prophets of Baal to choose their bull first, Elijah allows them to follow their customs and procedures first before demonstrating the power of God. This verse illustrates the importance of faith, trust, and belief in the power of God to perform miracles and reveal Himself as the ultimate authority.
Theological Overview
In this verse, we see a significant theological interpretation regarding the story of the prophet Elijah challenging the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. The selection of the two bullocks represents a choice between following the one true God or worshiping idols. By requesting the prophets of Baal to choose one bullock for themselves and allowing Elijah to have the other, God is showcasing His power and authority over false gods. The act of cutting the bullock in pieces and laying it on wood symbolizes the sacrifice that is about to take place, reminiscent of Old Testament sacrificial practices. The decision to not put fire under the bullocks highlights the miraculous intervention of God, who ultimately shows His superiority by consuming the offering with fire. This verse serves as a powerful example of God's sovereignty and the consequences of worshiping false gods, emphasizing the importance of faith and obedience in following the one true God.
1 Kings 18:23 in other translations
American Standard Version
Let them therefore give us two bullocks; and let them choose one bullock for themselves, and cut it in pieces, and lay it on the wood, and put no fire under; and I will dress the other bullock, and lay it on the wood, and put no fire under.
World English Bible
Let them therefore give us two bulls; and let them choose one bull for themselves, and cut it in pieces, and lay it on the wood, and put no fire under; and I will dress the other bull, and lay it on the wood, and put no fire under it.
Douay-Rheims
Let two bullocks be given us, and let them choose one bullock for themselves, and cut it in pieces, and lay it upon wood, but put no fire under: and I will dress the other bullock, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under it.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Let them therefore giue vs two bullockes, and let them chuse the one, and cut him in pieces, and lay him on the wood, but put no fire vnder, and I will prepare the other bullocke, and lay him on the wood, and will put no fire vnder.