Why is the word "heavens" in Gen. 1:1 used in plural?

[Sergey Raisky]

Genesis 1:1 says that In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.

I wonder if the plural if the heavens has any special meaning here as compared to the same word in singular.

the heavens = the heaven?

[Star Vale]

Why is the word "heavens" in Gen. 1:1 used in plural?

Because there are at least three heavens: "I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth) such an one caught up to the third heaven." (2Коринф.12:2).

[Sergey Raisky]

Because there are at least three heavens: "I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth) such an one caught up to the third heaven." (2Коринф.12:2).

Why does it sometimes used in singular? Is it a reference to a special heaven?

Then a voice from heaven said, This is my Son, whom I love. I am pleased with him!
(Mt.3:20)

For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not one letter or one stroke of a letter will disappear from the Law until everything has been accomplished.
(Mt.5:26)

Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of people in order to be noticed by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.
(Mt.6:1)

[pleeblander]

Heavens used to describe all vastness of the sky and beyond. Sort of all inclusive term for all celestial bodies which can be seen and all which beyond our vision and comprehension... It had been used to emphasize the enormity of His creation...