1 Kings 18:23

Let them therefore give us i.e. Let there be given unto us. Let there be provided, for the trial which I am about to propose.

and let them choose one Elijah yields place to them because of their greater number. So 1 Kings 18:25 -for ye are many."

cut it in pieces This was a part of the duty of the offerer of a burnt-offering. See Leviticus 1:6; -he shall flay the burnt offering and cut it into his pieces."

and I will dress the other bullock The Hebrew uses for -dress" the verb עשׂה = to make, which, in connexions like this, = -to make ready" a victim for sacrifice. The same word is used Psalms 66:15 -I will offerbullocks with goats," also Exodus 29:36; Exodus 29:38-39; Exodus 29:41. The LXX. translates by καὶ ἐγὼ ποιήσω τὸν βοῦν τὸν ἄλλον, a sentence from which we may see in what way ποιεῖν came to be used of sacrifice. But by itself ποιεῖν can no more mean -to sacrifice" than could the English verb -make." The object, the victim, must always be expressed. The same word is employed again in 1 Kings 18:25-26.

and lay it on wood The LXX. omits these words.

no fire under Deceit was largely practised in the heathen temples and sacrifices represented as miraculously consumed, for the accomplishment of which preparation was made in the ground beneath the altar.