«When I Look at Your Heavens»: The Interpretation of אלהים (ʾĕlōhîm) in Ps. 8, 6 in Early Biblical Translations and Jewish Commentaries

Abstract

This article explores the reasons for the different interpretations of the word אלהים (ʾĕlōhîm) in Psalm 8:6 in the early translations of the Old Testament and in rabbinic exegesis. The author identifies the historical circumstances behind the various translations, clarifies the positions of Jewish interpreters, and reveals two traditions of interpretation: as «God» and «angels». The author reconstructs the ways in which these traditions spread, indicates their place in Jewish and Christian theology, and offers research perspectives.