Commentators explain that Elijah's mockery exposes the fundamental flaw of idols. By suggesting Baal might be busy, traveling, or even sleeping, Elijah uses biting sarcasm to highlight the absurd, human-like limitations of false gods. Scholars note that pagan gods in ancient literature were often depicted this way. This stands in stark contrast to the one true God, who, as Psalm 121 says, 'neither slumbers nor sleeps.'