For you are many explains why Elijah thinks that the prophets of Baal should go first in preparing their sacrifice. In some languages this clause may have to precede the clauses with the verbs Choose and prepare even though it comes after them in the Hebrew text.

But put no fire to it: Since the sending of fire is to be the actual test, Elijah states clearly that neither the prophets of Baal nor he himself (verse 23) are to set fire to the prepared sacrifices. For to it, see the comments on verse 23.

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on 1-2 Kings, Volume 1. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2008. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .