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1 Kings 18:26 – NASB vs. HCSB vs. ESV
1 Kings 18:26 NASB Then they took the ox which was given them and they prepared it and called on the name of Baal from morning until noon saying, “O Baal, answer us.” But there was no voice and no one answered. And they leaped about the altar which they made.
1 Kings 18:26 HCSB (2004) So they took the bull that he gave them, prepared it, and called on the name of Baal from morning until noon, saying, “Baal, answer us!” But there was no sound; no one answered. Then they did their lame dance around the altar they had made.
1 Kings 18:26 HCSB (2010) So they took the bull that he gave them, prepared it, and called on the name of Baal from morning until noon, saying, “Baal, answer us!” But there was no sound; no one answered. Then they danced, hobbling around the altar they had made.
1 Kings 18:26 ESV And they took the bull that was given them, and they prepared it and called upon the name of Baal from morning until noon, saying, “O Baal, answer us!” But there was no voice, and no one answered. And they limped around the altar that they had made.
All four translations “leaped” “limped” “ danced, hobbling” and “lame dance” are validated by the definition of pâsach. Each accurate, but very different. Now let me tell you why I like the HCSB (2004). Definitions are only as accurate as the context. I am sure all three could fit. But considering the mocking and sarcasm of Elijah in v.27, the Holy Spirit calling what the Baal prophets did a “lame dance” seems perfect.
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