God's Usage of the Plural Tense
“I am God. There is no other god besides Me.”
In English-speaking regions where trinitarian theology dominates, God's use of the plural tense in the Quran intrigues some readers. However, the Quran's core message emphasizes monotheism uncompromisingly across numerous verses (, ; ; ; ; ; ; ; , ; , ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ).
The first-person plural form employed by God consistently represents participation by other entities, particularly the angels. The Quran's revelation exemplifies this: “We revealed this scripture, and we will preserve it” (), reflecting Gabriel's and Muhammad's involvement in delivering the sacred text.
Adam vs. Jesus
Another illustration involves the breathing of life into Adam and Jesus. Adam's creation occurred in heaven with direct divine action, employing singular language: “I blew into Adam from My spirit” (, ). Jesus's creation, occurring on earth through Gabriel's mediation, uses plural forms (, ).
When God addressed Moses directly without angelic intermediation, singular language appears: “I am God. There is no other god besides Me” (–).
Worship-related references consistently employ the singular tense (), underscoring that God alone is to be worshipped.
Summary
- ·God's use of “We” reflects participation of angels and messengers — not a plurality of gods.
- ·Direct, unmediated divine communication always uses the singular first person.
- ·The Quran's overarching message of pure monotheism is never in doubt — see .