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2EXOfrontintrob4ppהָ⁠אָבְנָ֑יִם1

Introduction to Exodus

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of Exodus

  1. Israel in Egypt; preparing to depart from slavery (112)
  • First genealogy (1:16)
  • Israel as slaves in Egypt (1:722)
  • Moses history to the time of the Exodus (2:14:26)
  • Israel suffers in Egypt (4:276:13)
  • Second genealogy (6:1427)
  • Moses and Aaron go to Pharaoh (6:287:25)
  • The plagues (8:111:10)
  1. Instructions for celebrating the Passover (12:130)
  2. From Egypt to Mount Sinai (12:3118:27)
  • The Passover; preparing to leave Egypt; leaving Egypt (12:3150, 13:122)
  • Journey from Egypt to Mount Sinai (14:118:27)
  1. Mount Sinai and the Law (19-40)
  • Preparing for the covenant (19:125)
  • The Ten Commandments (20:117)
  • The covenant described (20:1823:33)
  • The people agree to the covenant; Moses returns to Mount Sinai (24:118)
  • Design of the tabernacle and its furnishings; what was required of those who serve in it; tabernacle functions (25:131:18)
  • The golden calf; Moses prays for the people (32:133:22)
  • The covenant described again (34:135)
  • Making of the ark and its furnishings (35:138:31) and priestly garments (39:143, 40:133)
  • The cloud (40:3438)

What is the book of Exodus about?

Exodus continues the story of the previous book, Genesis. The first half of Exodus is about how Yahweh made Abrahams descendants into a nation. This nation, which would be called “Israel,” was meant to belong to Yahweh and worship him. The second half of Exodus describes how God gave the Israelites his law through Moses. The law of Moses told the Israelites how to obey and worship Yahweh properly.

The book of Exodus tells how the Israelites were to build the tabernacle. The tabernacle was a tent where Yahweh would be among his people. The Israelites worshiped and sacrificed animals to Yahweh at the tabernacle. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/tabernacle]])

How should the title of this book be translated?

“Exodus” means “exit” or “departure.” Translators may translate this title in a way that can communicate its subject clearly, for example, “About the Israelites Leaving Egypt” or “How the Israelites Left the Land of Egypt.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

Who wrote the book of Exodus?

The writers of both the Old and New Testaments present Moses as being very involved with writing the book of Exodus. Since ancient times, both Jews and Christians have thought that Moses wrote Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.

Why did Moses write so much about God delivering or rescuing the people of Israel?

Moses wrote much about God rescuing his people from the Egyptians to show that Yahweh is very powerful. Egypt was the most powerful nation at that time, but Yahweh was still able to free the Israelites from the Egyptians. Also, by rescuing the Israelites, Yahweh showed that he had chosen them as his people, and they should worship him.

How does the book of Exodus show the fulfillment of the promises given to Abraham?

The book of Exodus shows God beginning to fulfill his promise to Abraham. In Genesis, God promised Abraham that he would have many descendants and that they would become a large nation. When God rescued the Israelites from the Egyptians, he took them to Mount Sinai. There he made a covenant with them, and they became the nation that belonged to Yahweh.

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

What was the Jewish Passover?

The Jewish Passover was a religious festival. Yahweh commanded the Israelites to celebrate it every year. Passover was a time to remember how God rescued Israel from the Egyptians. The first Passover meal was eaten in the evening just before they left Egypt.

What was the law of Moses to the people of Israel?

The law of Moses instructed the people of Israel about what Yahweh required them to do as his people. In the law, God told the people how they should live so that they would honor him. He also instructed them about their need to offer animal sacrifices. God required these sacrifices so that he could forgive their sins and continue living among them. The law also described the duties of the priests and told how to build the tabernacle.

What did it mean that Israel was to be a “kingdom of priests and a holy nation” (19:6 ULT)?

Israel was a holy nation because Yahweh separated them from all other nations to belong to him. They were to honor and worship him only. This made them different from all the other nations of the world. These other nations worshiped many false gods.

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

Thus says Yahweh

This phrase is used many times in the Old Testament to introduce Yahwehs speech. Your team should pick a standard translation. See 4:intro for more.

Pharaohs stubborn heart

Between chapters 414 there are 18 cases where Pharaohs heart is described as strong (11x), heavy (6x), or hard (1x), and one case where the Egyptians hearts are described as strong. These are metaphors for being stubborn, that is, being unwilling to obey Yahweh or even to do what is clearly in his own and Egypts best interest. Many cultures have similar metaphors, but not all will use the same body part. Within these cases, six times there is a neutral description that Pharaoh was stubborn without saying anyone made him so (7:13, 7:14, 7:22, 8:19, 9:7, 9:35); three times Pharaoh makes himself stubborn (8:15, 8:32, 9:34); and ten times Yahweh makes Pharaoh/the Egyptians stubborn (4:21, 7:3, 9:12, 10:1, 10:20, 10:27, 11:10, 14:4, 14:8, 14:17).

Why are the details of the construction of the tabernacle in Exodus 2532 repeated in Exodus 3540?

In Exodus 2532, God describes exactly how the tabernacle was to be built. The details were repeated in Exodus 3540. This showed that the people were to be careful to do exactly as God commanded.

Are the events in the order that they actually happened?

Most, but not all, of the events in the book of Exodus are told in the order that they actually happened. Translators may need to make it clear when the events are in an unusual order.

What does it mean that God “lived” among his people?

The book of Exodus presents God as living in the tabernacle among the nation of Israel. God is everywhere, but he lived among the Israelites in a special way. God dwelled with the Israelites because they belonged to him. He promised to lead them and bless them. In return, the people were to worship him and honor him.

3EXO1introcj55וַ⁠יֵּ֥לֶךְ0

Exodus 01 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is intended to form a smooth transition from the last chapter of the book of Genesis.

Special concepts in this chapter

Israels growth

Israel grew in number. This was in fulfillment of the covenant God made with Abraham. It also caused the Egyptians great concern that there would be more Israelites than Egyptians, because the Egyptians would be unable to defend themselves against such a large number of people. Pharaoh also tried to kill all of the male babies so they would not become soldiers who fought against him. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/fulfill]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])

End of the famine

It is obvious that some time has passed since the beginning of the famine which brought the Israelites into Egypt. Yahweh appears to be punishing the Hebrews for not returning to the Promised Land, but instead, choosing to stay in Egypt. No return attempt is recorded to have been made. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/promisedland]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“All of the descendants of Jacob were 70 in number”

This number included both Jacobs children and grandchildren. It may cause confusion, but it is important to remember Jacob only had 12 sons.

4EXO11851fwriting-background1

Verses 17 are background information for the story. If your language has a way of structuring background information, consider using it for these verses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

5EXO11g89kfigs-metonymy​וּ⁠בֵית֖⁠וֹ1household

Here, house refers to all of the people who live together, usually a large family with servants. Alternate translation: “and his household” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

6EXO11fxbxfigs-goהַ⁠בָּאִ֖ים… בָּֽאוּ1

The words translated as came in could also be translated as “went in.” Use whichever form is most natural in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

7EXO11e65ztranslate-namesיִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל… יַעֲקֹ֔ב1

Jacob and Israel are two names for the same man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

8EXO15fv84translate-numbers​שִׁבְעִ֣ים1seventy in number

“70 in number” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

9EXO16sh42grammar-connect-time-sequentialוַ⁠יָּ֤מָת1

Jacob and his sons spent the rest of their lives in Egypt and died there. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])

10EXO16g5qgוְ⁠כָל־אֶחָ֔י⁠ו1all his brothers

All his brothers includes ten older brothers and one younger brother. If your language has different words for those, you can say, “his ten older brothers and his younger brother”

11EXO168g2kfigs-possessionאֶחָ֔י⁠ו1

This an instance of the possessive of social relationship. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

12EXO179uwrfigs-metonymyוּ⁠בְנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל1

This is the first of many times in this book that sons of Israel refers to the Israelite nation or people. Alternate translation: “And the people of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

13EXO172ccyfigs-doubletפָּר֧וּ וַֽ⁠יִּשְׁרְצ֛וּ וַ⁠יִּרְבּ֥וּ וַ⁠יַּֽעַצְמ֖וּ1

All of these verbs mean similar things and are used together to emphasize that the Israelite people became very numerous. If your language doesnt have as many words that mean the same thing, you can use fewer words and express the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “multiplied and became extremely numerous” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

14EXO17uo65פָּר֧וּ… וַ⁠יִּרְבּ֥וּ… וַ⁠תִּמָּלֵ֥א הָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ1

Compare your translation of fruitful … and multiplied … and the land was filled here to Genesis 1:28; 9:1, 7; and especially Genesis 35:11, where God renamed Jacob to be called Israel.

15EXO17nk2lfigs-metaphor​פָּר֧וּ1were fruitful

The birth of children to the Israelites is spoken of as if they were plants that were producing fruit. Alternate translation: “had many children” or “gave birth to many children” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

16EXO17r2f1figs-activepassiveוַ⁠תִּמָּלֵ֥א הָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ אֹתָֽ⁠ם1the land was filled with them

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they filled the land” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

17EXO173tcvfigs-idiomבִּ⁠מְאֹ֣ד מְאֹ֑ד1

Here the same word is used twice to emphasize how many the Israelite people had become. If your language does not repeat words like this, express the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “with much power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

18EXO17piq4writing-participants​אֹתָֽ⁠ם1with them

Here, them refers to the Israelites. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

19EXO186y05writing-newevent​וַ⁠יָּ֥קָם1

This sentence introduces a new event in the story. If your language marks this with particular discourse features, apply them here. (See:[[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

20EXO18470twriting-participantsמֶֽלֶךְ־חָדָ֖שׁ1

The story begins with the new king. Your language may have a specific way to introduce new events or new characters in a story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

21EXO18t6jdfigs-metonymyוַ⁠יָּ֥קָם מֶֽלֶךְ־חָדָ֖שׁ עַל־מִצְרָ֑יִם1arose over Egypt

Here, Egypt refers to the place and the people of Egypt. Alternate translation: “And a new king began to rule over the Egyptians and the country of Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

22EXO1804cxfigs-metonymy​לֹֽא־יָדַ֖ע אֶת־יוֹסֵֽף1

Here, Joseph refers to both the person Joseph and to all of the good things that he did for Egypt. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

23EXO19tf59writing-participants​וַ⁠יֹּ֖אמֶר1He said to his people

“And the king said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

24EXO19aku3figs-exclamationsהִנֵּ֗ה 1

Here, behold draws special attention to what is about to be said. Use a way of drawing peoples attention that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Listen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]])

25EXO19x65ifigs-possession​עַמּ֑⁠וֹ1his people

The people are spoken of as if they belonged to the king. This is an instance of the possessive of social relationship. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

26EXO19t7s1​עַמּ֑⁠וֹ1

There is some ambiguity as to whom exactly Pharaoh was addressing. It could have been: 1) the people who lived in Egypt, the Egyptians or 2) some group of “his people” like his advisors, generals, nobles, or friends and family. Even if option 1 is meant, it is quite possible that he actually spoke to some smaller group of representatives, as in option 2.

27EXO19jik8מִמֶּֽ⁠נּוּ1

Use a way that is natural in your language to compare non-specific sizes of groups of people. Alternate translation: “more than we are”

28EXO19njuffigs-quotemarksהִנֵּ֗ה1

Beginning from behold to the end of verse 10 is a direct quote of what the king said. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

29EXO110hiq4figs-exclusive​נִֽתְחַכְּמָ֖ה… שֹׂ֣נְאֵ֔י⁠נוּ… בָּ֖⁠נוּ1let us

The word us is inclusive and refers to the king and his people, the Egyptians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

30EXO1108wvbgrammar-connect-condition-hypothetical​פֶּן־יִרְבֶּ֗ה וְ⁠הָיָ֞ה כִּֽי־תִקְרֶ֤אנָה מִלְחָמָה֙1

The king suggests a combination of two hypothetical events: 1. There are even more Israelites, 2. There is a battle. These are followed by a series of undesirable consequences: 3. The Israelites join an enemy, 4. The Israelites attack the Egyptians, 5. The Israelites leave Egypt. While the series of consequences is also technically hypothetical, the kings language indicates that if 1-2 happen, then 3-5 are certain. Use language that makes it clear that the first two events are hypothetical, and that the next three are consequences that could be expected if the first two events happen. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]])

31EXO110jc1hוְ⁠עָלָ֥ה מִן־הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ1leave the land

“and he leaves Egypt”

32EXO110ni77figs-quotemarksהָ⁠אָֽרֶץ1

After this phrase, the direct quote of what the king said comes to an end. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with a closing first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

33EXO111y2mi​שָׂרֵ֣י1taskmasters

Egyptians whose job it was to force the Israelites to do hard work.

34EXO111o926מִסִּ֔ים1

Here the plural means groups. Alternative translation: “work crews”

35EXO111l9lj​לְמַ֥עַן עַנֹּת֖⁠וֹ בְּ⁠סִבְלֹתָ֑⁠ם1to oppress them with hard labor

“to force the Israelites to do hard work for the Egyptians”

36EXO111pkz4translate-unknown​עָרֵ֤י מִסְכְּנוֹת֙1store cities

These were places where the leaders put away food and other important things to keep them safe. Alternative translation: “cities in which to put away things to keep them safe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

37EXO111dy34figs-possession​עָרֵ֤י מִסְכְּנוֹת֙1

The possessive is objective; storage of goods is what occurs in the cities. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

38EXO112c1fygrammar-connect-logic-contrastוְ⁠כַ⁠אֲשֶׁר֙ יְעַנּ֣וּ אֹת֔⁠וֹ כֵּ֥ן יִרְבֶּ֖ה וְ⁠כֵ֣ן יִפְרֹ֑ץ1

This sentence expresses a result that is opposite of what the king expected. If your language has a way to express something happening that was opposite of what was expected, use that structure. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

39EXO112pdfkfigs-abstractnounsוַ⁠יָּקֻ֕צוּ1

“And they were afraid” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

40EXO112qgzzfigs-metonymyמִ⁠פְּנֵ֖י בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל1

Here, face figuratively means the presence of a person. The phrase means that the Egyptians were afraid of the Israelites existence in the country. Alternate translation: “whenever they saw an Israelite” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

41EXO113j1q6figs-abstractnounsוַ⁠יַּעֲבִ֧דוּ מִצְרַ֛יִם אֶת־בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל בְּ⁠פָֽרֶךְ1made…work rigorously

Here, rigor is a noun used to modify the verb enslaved. Rigor could refer either to how hard the work was or how unkindly the Egyptians treated the Israelites. Alternate translation: “And the Egyptians made the sons of Israel work very hard” or “And the Egyptians harshly made the sons of Israel work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

42EXO114mx6vfigs-metaphor​וַ⁠יְמָרְר֨וּ1made their lives bitter

The difficult lives of the Israelites are spoken of as if they were bitter food that was difficult to eat. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

43EXO114jre2figs-abstractnounsבַּ⁠עֲבֹדָ֣ה קָשָׁ֗ה1

Slavery is an abstract noun modified by hard. Alternative translation: “by making them work hard as slaves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

44EXO114cuq7translate-unknown​בְּ⁠חֹ֨מֶר֙1mortar

This was a wet glue or mud put between bricks or stones that held them together when it dried. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

45EXO114h5dxtranslate-unknownוּ⁠בִ⁠לְבֵנִ֔ים1

Bricks are hardened rectangular blocks of mud, clay etc., used for building. (Source: Wiktionary) The clay or mud was hardened either in the sun or by heating it to higher temperatures in other ways. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

46EXO114gzq7​אֵ֚ת כָּל־עֲבֹ֣דָתָ֔⁠ם אֲשֶׁר־עָבְד֥וּ בָ⁠הֶ֖ם בְּ⁠פָֽרֶךְ׃1All their required work was hard

“the Egyptians made them work very hard” or “the Egyptians forced them to work very hard” See how you translated this in verse 13

47EXO1145nzxwriting-participantsוַ⁠יְמָרְר֨וּ…בָ⁠הֶ֖ם1

These pronouns refer to the Egyptians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

48EXO114acj5writing-participantsחַיֵּי⁠הֶ֜ם…עֲבֹ֣דָתָ֔⁠ם…עָבְד֥וּ1

These pronouns refer to the Israelites. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

49EXO115yoajwriting-neweventוַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר֙1

This sentence introduces a new event in the story. If your language marks this with particular discourse features, apply them here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

50EXO115hhw1​לַֽ⁠מְיַלְּדֹ֖ת1midwives

Midwives were women who helped a pregnant woman give birth to a baby.

51EXO115h8f8translate-names​שִׁפְרָ֔ה…פּוּעָֽה1Shiphrah…Puah

These are Hebrew womens names. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

52EXO115h59twriting-participants​שִׁפְרָ֔ה…פּוּעָֽה1

The midwives are introduced here as new participants in the story. Use your languages way to introduce new characters in a story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

53EXO1164wwzוַ⁠יֹּ֗אמֶר1

In the UST, And the king said, is combined with “spoke” from verse 15, because the verb for “say” is used twice before he speaks. This may be strange in some languages. If it would be unnatural to say that the king spoke or said twice, you may leave one off.

54EXO116yovgfigs-quotemarksבְּ⁠יַלֶּדְ⁠כֶן֙ אֶת־הָֽ⁠עִבְרִיּ֔וֹת וּ⁠רְאִיתֶ֖ן עַל־הָ⁠אָבְנָ֑יִם אִם־בֵּ֥ן הוּא֙ וַ⁠הֲמִתֶּ֣ן אֹת֔⁠וֹ וְ⁠אִם־בַּ֥ת הִ֖יא וָ⁠חָֽיָה1

This is a direct quote of what the king said. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

55EXO1165lkefigs-youdualבְּ⁠יַלֶּדְ⁠כֶן֙…וּ⁠רְאִיתֶ֖ן…וַ⁠הֲמִתֶּ֣ן1

The king is speaking to the two midwives, so the form of you is plural. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a dual or plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

56EXO116h3mbfigs-metonymyעַל־הָ⁠אָבְנָ֑יִם1on the birthstool

Women sat on this short stool as they gave birth. Therefore, it is associated with birth. Alternate translation: “as they give birth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

57EXO116nms7grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical​אִם־בֵּ֥ן הוּא֙ וַ⁠הֲמִתֶּ֣ן אֹת֔⁠וֹ וְ⁠אִם־בַּ֥ת הִ֖יא וָ⁠חָֽיָה1

These two statements are hypothetical conditions (starting at if) with instructions for what the midwives should do in each situation (starting at then). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]])

58EXO117gy7kgrammar-connect-logic-contrastוַ⁠תִּירֶ֤אןָ1

Use a conjunction or other language structure that expresses contrast. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

59EXO118y9g5​לַֽ⁠מְיַלְּדֹ֔ת1midwives

These were women who helped a woman give birth to a baby. See how you translated this in Exodus 1:15.

60EXO11800l4figs-quotemarksמַדּ֥וּעַ עֲשִׂיתֶ֖ן הַ⁠דָּבָ֣ר הַ⁠זֶּ֑ה וַ⁠תְּחַיֶּ֖יןָ אֶת־הַ⁠יְלָדִֽים1

This is a direct quote of the kings question. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

61EXO118y73kfigs-quotationsוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר לָ⁠הֶ֔ן מַדּ֥וּעַ עֲשִׂיתֶ֖ן הַ⁠דָּבָ֣ר הַ⁠זֶּ֑ה וַ⁠תְּחַיֶּ֖יןָ אֶת־הַ⁠יְלָדִֽים1

This could be translated as an indirect quote. Alternate translation: “and he asked them why they were letting the sons live.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

62EXO118q1syמַדּ֥וּעַ עֲשִׂיתֶ֖ן הַ⁠דָּבָ֣ר הַ⁠זֶּ֑ה וַ⁠תְּחַיֶּ֖יןָ אֶת־הַ⁠יְלָדִֽים1Why have you done this, and let the baby boys live?

Alternate translation: “Why have you not killed the baby boys?”

63EXO1188onvfigs-youdualעֲשִׂיתֶ֖ן1

This you is plural. The king is speaking to the two midwives. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a dual or plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

64EXO1197t6zfigs-quotemarksכִּ֣י לֹ֧א כַ⁠נָּשִׁ֛ים הַ⁠מִּצְרִיֹּ֖ת הָֽ⁠עִבְרִיֹּ֑ת כִּֽי־חָי֣וֹת הֵ֔נָּה בְּ⁠טֶ֨רֶם תָּב֧וֹא אֲלֵ⁠הֶ֛ן הַ⁠מְיַלֶּ֖דֶת וְ⁠יָלָֽדוּ1

This is a direct quote of the midwives response. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

65EXO1199gqegrammar-connect-logic-resultכִּ֣י לֹ֧א כַ⁠נָּשִׁ֛ים הַ⁠מִּצְרִיֹּ֖ת הָֽ⁠עִבְרִיֹּ֑ת כִּֽי־חָי֣וֹת הֵ֔נָּה בְּ⁠טֶ֨רֶם תָּב֧וֹא אֲלֵ⁠הֶ֛ן הַ⁠מְיַלֶּ֖דֶת וְ⁠יָלָֽדוּ1

The midwives give a reason, the Hebrew women are not like the Egyptian women, and then they expand on that reason, for they are lively (or energetic), with the result that before the midwife comes to them, they have given birth.  (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

66EXO1190ppafigs-synecdocheוַ⁠תֹּאמַ֤רְןָ הַֽ⁠מְיַלְּדֹת֙1

It may not make sense in your language to say that multiple people said something, so you may need to translate it in the singular (see UST). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

67EXO1192ivnהַֽ⁠מְיַלְּדֹת֙1

These were women who helped a woman give birth to a baby. See how you translated this in Exodus 1:15.

68EXO120eh25​לַֽ⁠מְיַלְּדֹ֑ת1midwives

These were women who helped a woman give birth to a baby. See how you translated this in Exodus 1:15.

69EXO120h133figs-doubletוַ⁠יִּ֧רֶב הָ⁠עָ֛ם וַ⁠יַּֽעַצְמ֖וּ מְאֹֽד1The people increased in numbers

These words mean similar things and are used together to emphasize their numeric growth. If your language doesnt have as many words that mean the same thing, you can use fewer words and express the emphasis in another way. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

70EXO1200wpbgrammar-connect-logic-result​וַ⁠יֵּ֥יטֶב אֱלֹהִ֖ים לַֽ⁠מְיַלְּדֹ֑ת1

This phrase is more logically connected to the statements in verse 21. It describes the result of the midwives fearing God with a general statement. You may need to rearrange vs 20-21 so that the reason (vs 21) comes before both the general and specific results. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

71EXO1213q9egrammar-connect-logic-resultוַ⁠יְהִ֕י כִּֽי־יָֽרְא֥וּ הַֽ⁠מְיַלְּדֹ֖ת אֶת־הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֑ים1

This is the reason for what God did. You may need to rearrange vs 20-21 so that the reason (vs 21) comes before both the general and specific results. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

72EXO121pbvegrammar-connect-logic-resultוַ⁠יַּ֥עַשׂ לָ⁠הֶ֖ם בָּתִּֽים1

This describes the result of the midwives fearing God with a specific statement. You may need to rearrange vs 20-21 so that the reason (vs 21) comes before both the general and specific results. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

73EXO121jx9cבָּתִּֽים1he gave them families

“households”

74EXO122ld1jfigs-explicitכָּל־הַ⁠בֵּ֣ן הַ⁠יִּלּ֗וֹד הַ⁠יְאֹ֨רָ⁠ה֙ תַּשְׁלִיכֻ֔⁠הוּ1You must throw every son…into the river

This order was given in order to drown the male children. The full meaning of this may be made explicit. Alternate translation: “You must dispose of each new baby boy in the river so he will drown” or “Drown each baby boy in the river when he is born” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

75EXO122a6b2figs-quotationsוַ⁠יְצַ֣ו פַּרְעֹ֔ה לְ⁠כָל־עַמּ֖⁠וֹ לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר כָּל־הַ⁠בֵּ֣ן הַ⁠יִּלּ֗וֹד הַ⁠יְאֹ֨רָ⁠ה֙ תַּשְׁלִיכֻ֔⁠הוּ וְ⁠כָל־הַ⁠בַּ֖ת תְּחַיּֽוּ⁠ן1

From You shall to the end of the verse is a direct quote of Pharaohs speech. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. However, it could be translated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “And Pharaoh commanded all of his people to throw every baby boy into the river, but to let every girl live.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

76EXO122stagfigs-youdualתַּשְׁלִיכֻ֔⁠הוּ…תְּחַיּֽוּ⁠ן1

The uses of the word you here refer to all the Egyptians. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

77EXO2introrwf30

Exodus 02 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Covenant

God begins to relate to the Israelites based on his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Moses heritage

In the first part of this chapter, Pharaohs daughter recognizes Moses as being a Hebrew, but in the last part of this chapter, the Midianites believe him to be an Egyptian.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Identification of participants

  • Moses is the only participant named in most of this chapter. This is because many of the participants play very minor roles and because this part of the story is focusing on Moses life.

Ironic situations

  • While Pharaoh tried to diminish the power of the Israelites by killing all of their baby boys, God used Pharaohs own daughter to save Moses.

  • Moses believes he is meant to be the rescuer of his people, but they reject him. Ultimately, Moses was correct, but God had not yet sent him for that mission.

78EXO21wvj9writing-newevent​וַ⁠יֵּ֥לֶךְ1Now

A new scene begins here; that may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

79EXO21riy7writing-participantsאִ֖ישׁ…בַּת1

These are new participants. They remain unnamed until Exodus 6:20 where they are identified as Amram and Jochebed. For now it is best to leave them unnamed in your language, if possible. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

80EXO2140u9figs-idiomוַ⁠יִּקַּ֖ח אֶת־בַּת־לֵוִֽי1

This is an idiom for marrying. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

81EXO22s49kט֣וֹב1

Alternative translations: “pleasing,” “fine,” or “healthy” (UST)

82EXO22q4c0grammar-connect-logic-resultוַ⁠תֵּ֤רֶא…וַֽ⁠תִּצְפְּנֵ֖⁠הוּ1

Hiding the boy was a result of seeing that he was good. Alternative translation: “Since she saw … she hid him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

83EXO2200k4translate-numbersשְׁלֹשָׁ֥ה1

3 (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

84EXO23t2gjtranslate-unknownתֵּ֣בַת גֹּ֔מֶא1papyrus basket

This is a basket made from a tall grass that grows by the Nile River in Egypt. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

85EXO23tn3yfigs-explicitוַ⁠תַּחְמְרָ֥⁠ה בַ⁠חֵמָ֖ר וּ⁠בַ⁠זָּ֑פֶת1sealed it with bitumen and pitch

You could explicitly state that this was to keep out water. Alternate translation: “spread tar on it to keep water from getting into it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

86EXO23wpb6translate-unknownוַ⁠תַּחְמְרָ֥⁠ה 1sealed

This means that she applied a waterproof coating. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

87EXO23ym3ktranslate-unknownבַ⁠חֵמָ֖ר1bitumen

This is a sticky black paste made from petroleum. It can be used to keep out water. Alternate translation: “with tar” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

88EXO23v825translate-unknownוּ⁠בַ⁠זָּ֑פֶת 1pitch

This is a sticky brown or black paste that can be made from tree sap or from petroleum. Therefore, pitch would include not only bitumen but also plant-based resins. It too can be used to keep out water. Alternate translation: “and with tar” or “and with resin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

89EXO23y8gqtranslate-unknownבַּ⁠סּ֖וּף1reeds

These reeds were a type of tall grass that grew in flat, wet areas. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

90EXO24av8bוַ⁠תֵּתַצַּ֥ב אֲחֹת֖⁠וֹ מֵ⁠רָחֹ֑ק1at a distance

This means she stood far enough away so that she would not be noticed, but close enough to see the ark. Use a word that expresses this sort of distance in your language.

91EXO249m7yfigs-abstractnounsמֵ⁠רָחֹ֑ק1

This probably means somewhere in the reeds where she could see the basket, but no one would see her. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

92EXO244d7nfigs-kinshipאֲחֹת֖⁠וֹ1

Here, the actions of his sister show that she is older. If your languages uses a different term for siblings based on their relative ages and/or the gender of the siblings use one that means “a boys older sister.” See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-kinship]])

93EXO24z1cygrammar-connect-logic-goalלְ⁠דֵעָ֕ה מַה־יֵּעָשֶׂ֖ה לֽ⁠וֹ1

This is her purpose in being close by. Alternative translation: “in order to learn what would happen to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])

94EXO251vlsfigs-goוַ⁠תֵּ֤רֶד1

Came down may be literal or figurative, as important places are often considered to be in a higher place. This means she came from her home, probably Pharaohs palace. If a perspective is required for Pharaohs daughter, you may choose go or come as works best in your language. “Come” is better as the scene is at the river and she comes to the scene location. However, you also need to consider your languages way of introducing new participants. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

95EXO25y26hwriting-participantsוַ⁠תֵּ֤רֶד בַּת־פַּרְעֹה֙1

The daughter of Pharaoh is introduced here as a new participant. Along with choosing come or go as mentioned in the previous note, you may need to mark her introduction in a particular way in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

96EXO253vanwriting-participantsוְ⁠נַעֲרֹתֶ֥י⁠הָ1

These women are introduced here as new participants; however they are not mentioned again after this verse. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

97EXO25im0dfigs-metaphorעַל־יַ֣ד הַ⁠יְאֹ֑ר1

Hand is a metaphor for “side,” which in this case can be translated as the shore or bank (UST) of the river. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

98EXO25bi7sוְ⁠נַעֲרֹתֶ֥י⁠הָ1her attendants

These were the young women whose job it was to be with her and make sure nothing bad happened to her.

99EXO25am7gwriting-participantsוַ⁠תִּקָּחֶֽ⁠הָ1

It is not clear who is meant by she here, either Pharaohs daughter or the servant. It is likely that Pharaohs daughter stays the subject. Alternative translation: “and she took the ark from her slave” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

100EXO26g9n6figs-exclamationsוְ⁠הִנֵּה1Behold

The word behold signals the surprising information that follows. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]])

101EXO26tyubgrammar-connect-logic-resultוַ⁠תַּחְמֹ֣ל עָלָ֔י⁠ו1

The text does not state exactly what caused her to have compassion on the baby. If a reason must be provided in your language it should be connected to either his crying (this is the better option) or that he was a “good” baby verse 2. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

102EXO26jg0dfigs-quotemarksמִ⁠יַּלְדֵ֥י הָֽ⁠עִבְרִ֖ים זֶֽה1

This is a direct quote. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. It seems to have been said loud enough for the babys sister to hear. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

103EXO273zvufigs-quotemarksוְ⁠קָרָ֤אתִי לָ⁠ךְ֙ אִשָּׁ֣ה מֵינֶ֔קֶת מִ֖ן הָ⁠עִבְרִיֹּ֑ת וְ⁠תֵינִ֥ק לָ֖⁠ךְ אֶת־הַ⁠יָּֽלֶד1

This is a direct quote of the babys sister. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

104EXO27x5jaוְ⁠קָרָ֤אתִי לָ⁠ךְ֙ אִשָּׁ֣ה מֵינֶ֔קֶת מִ֖ן הָ⁠עִבְרִיֹּ֑ת1

This is a suggestive question. The childs sister is hopeful that Pharaohs daughter does not have a plan yet for the baby beyond saving his life. However, it is still a true question, for without Pharaohs daughters permission, the childs sister will not be able to fetch the woman. If your language has a way of forming questions that are also suggestions, use it here.

105EXO27psb2figs-possessionאֲחֹת⁠וֹ֮…בַּת־פַּרְעֹה֒1

These are both the possessive of social relationship. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

106EXO27d7ajמֵינֶ֔קֶת…וְ⁠תֵינִ֥ק1nurse

To nurse means to feed with milk from the breast.

107EXO27tqq9grammar-connect-logic-goalוְ⁠תֵינִ֥ק לָ֖⁠ךְ אֶת־הַ⁠יָּֽלֶד1

This is the purpose of the sisters proposal. Alternative translation: “And she could nurse the infant for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])

108EXO28ab1mfigs-goלֵ֑כִי…וַ⁠תֵּ֨לֶךְ֙1

The girl left Pharaohs daughter to go to the childs mother. The girl was almost certainly on foot. Use verbs of motion that express this. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

109EXO282456figs-quotemarksלֵ֑כִי1

This is a direct quote. Pharaohs daughter commands the babys sister. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

110EXO28lyyjfigs-possessionבַּת־פַּרְעֹ֖ה…אֵ֥ם הַ⁠יָּֽלֶד1

These are both the possessive of social relationship. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

111EXO29lmkofigs-possessionבַּת־פַּרְעֹ֗ה1

This is the possessive of social relationship. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

112EXO29u554writing-participantsלָ֣⁠הּ1

The childs mother is reintroduced as a participant. Alternative translation: “to the babys mother” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

113EXO29xp5xfigs-quotemarksהֵילִ֜יכִי אֶת־הַ⁠יֶּ֤לֶד הַ⁠זֶּה֙ וְ⁠הֵינִקִ֣⁠הוּ לִ֔⁠י וַ⁠אֲנִ֖י אֶתֵּ֣ן אֶת־שְׂכָרֵ֑⁠ךְ1

This is a direct quote. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

114EXO29moggשְׂכָרֵ֑⁠ךְ1

This refers to payment that Pharaohs daughter would give to the mother in exchange for her service of nursing the baby.

115EXO29hqsafigs-explicitוַ⁠תִּקַּ֧ח…וַ⁠תְּנִיקֵֽ⁠הוּ1

The mothers acceptance of the deal is implied. You could make it explicit, as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

116EXO210zj8hgrammar-connect-time-sequentialוַ⁠יִגְדַּ֣ל הַ⁠יֶּ֗לֶד וַ⁠תְּבִאֵ֨⁠הוּ֙1she brought him

An unspecified amount of time is designated by this. He would have stayed with his mother at least until he was weaned (no longer drinking his mothers milk). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])

117EXO210ta4rfigs-possessionלְ⁠בַת־פַּרְעֹ֔ה1

This is the possessive of social relationship. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

118EXO210j7n1וַֽ⁠יְהִי־לָ֖⁠הּ לְ⁠בֵ֑ן1he became her son

“and he became the adopted son of Pharaohs daughter”

119EXO210h7togrammar-connect-time-simultaneousוַֽ⁠יְהִי־לָ֖⁠הּ לְ⁠בֵ֑ן וַ⁠תִּקְרָ֤א שְׁמ⁠וֹ֙ מֹשֶׁ֔ה1

These events were likely simultaneous, because her act of naming him may have been what made him become as a son to her. Consider using a conjunction that does not make a great separtion between these events. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])

120EXO210nh2mמֹשֶׁ֔ה וַ⁠תֹּ֕אמֶר כִּ֥י מִן־הַ⁠מַּ֖יִם מְשִׁיתִֽ⁠הוּ1Because I drew him from the water

Translators may add a footnote that says, “The name Moses sounds like the Hebrew word that means draw out.’”

121EXO210ityqfigs-quotationsוַ⁠תֹּ֕אמֶר כִּ֥י מִן־הַ⁠מַּ֖יִם מְשִׁיתִֽ⁠הוּ1

This is a direct quote. It could be stated indirectly. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. Alternate translation: “because she said she draw him out of the water” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

122EXO210yax4translate-namesמֹשֶׁ֔ה1drew him

Moses - (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

123EXO211tyolgrammar-connect-time-sequential וַ⁠יְהִ֣י׀ בַּ⁠יָּמִ֣ים הָ⁠הֵ֗ם וַ⁠יִּגְדַּ֤ל מֹשֶׁה֙ וַ⁠יֵּצֵ֣א1

A significant amount of time has passed; later texts state that Moses was 40 years old at this point. Alternative translation: “Many years later, once Moses was grown, he went out” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])

124EXO211p7gxwriting-newevent וַ⁠יְהִ֣י׀ בַּ⁠יָּמִ֣ים הָ⁠הֵ֗1

This introduces a new event in the story. In your language, use a phrase that indicates a new event occurring after significant time has passed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

125EXO211917yfigs-goוַ⁠יֵּצֵ֣א1

The UST supplies a probable location that he went out from; it could also have been simply out from the Egyptian area or out to the work area or cities. Use go or come as appropriate in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

126EXO211swn3מַכֶּ֥ה אִישׁ־עִבְרִ֖י1striking a Hebrew

“hitting a Hebrew” or “beating a Hebrew”

127EXO212m9bnfigs-merismוַ⁠יִּ֤פֶן כֹּה֙ וָ⁠כֹ֔ה1He looked this way and that way

These two opposite directions have the combined meaning of “everywhere.” Alternate translation: “He looked all around” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

128EXO212rmgnfigs-metonymyוַ⁠יַּךְ֙1

The context makes clear that Moses struck the Egyptian hard enough or repeatedly until Moses killed him. Consider using a word that indicates a deadly blow. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

129EXO213qn45figs-goוַ⁠יֵּצֵא֙1He went out

See how you translated this in Exodus 2:11. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

130EXO21383e6translate-ordinalהַ⁠שֵּׁנִ֔י1

The ordinal number here could mean “the next day” (UST) or simply on some day following the events of the previous verse. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

131EXO213rgn1figs-exclamationsוְ⁠הִנֵּ֛ה1behold

Here, behold shows that Moses was surprised by what he saw. You can use a word in your language that will give this meaning. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]])

132EXO213i4d6לָֽ⁠רָשָׁ֔ע1the one who was in the wrong

Based on Mosess question, this means the aggressor or the man wrongfully attacking his neighbor. Alternate translation: “the man who was guilty of starting the fight”

133EXO213duobfigs-quotemarksלָ֥⁠מָּה תַכֶּ֖ה רֵעֶֽ⁠ךָ1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

134EXO214qb2nfigs-rquestionמִ֣י שָֽׂמְ⁠ךָ֞ לְ⁠אִ֨ישׁ שַׂ֤ר וְ⁠שֹׁפֵט֙ עָלֵ֔י⁠נוּ1Who made you a leader and judge over us?

The man used this question to rebuke Moses for intervening in the fight. Alternate translation: “You are not our leader and have no right to judge us!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

135EXO214afnefigs-quotemarksמִ֣י שָֽׂמְ⁠ךָ֞ לְ⁠אִ֨ישׁ שַׂ֤ר וְ⁠שֹׁפֵט֙ עָלֵ֔י⁠נוּ הַ⁠לְ⁠הָרְגֵ֨⁠נִי֙ אַתָּ֣ה אֹמֵ֔ר כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֥ר הָרַ֖גְתָּ אֶת־הַ⁠מִּצְרִ֑י1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

136EXO214k6s5figs-ironyהַ⁠לְ⁠הָרְגֵ֨⁠נִי֙ אַתָּ֣ה אֹמֵ֔ר כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֥ר הָרַ֖גְתָּ אֶת־הַ⁠מִּצְרִ֑י1Are you planning to kill me as you killed that Egyptian?

The man used a question here to be sarcastic. Alternate translation: “We know that you killed an Egyptian yesterday. You had better not kill me!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]]

137EXO2147qmkfigs-rquestionהַ⁠לְ⁠הָרְגֵ֨⁠נִי֙ אַתָּ֣ה אֹמֵ֔ר כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֥ר הָרַ֖גְתָּ אֶת־הַ⁠מִּצְרִ֑י1

The man asks a question that is intended to make a statement. Alternate translation: “Do you think you can kill me without anyone finding out? We know what you did to the Egyptian” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

138EXO214d2jaהַ⁠לְ⁠הָרְגֵ֨⁠נִי֙ אַתָּ֣ה אֹמֵ֔ר1

“Are you planning to kill me” or “Are you threatening to kill me”

139EXO214lyqhfigs-asideאָכֵ֖ן נוֹדַ֥ע הַ⁠דָּבָֽר1

It is likely this is something Moses said to himself, that is, he thought it to himself rather than speaking to the men in front of him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-aside]])

140EXO214vfw5figs-quotationsוַ⁠יֹּאמַ֔ר אָכֵ֖ן נוֹדַ֥ע הַ⁠דָּבָֽר1

It may be clearer to present as an indirect quotation what was likely a thought Moses had. Alternative translation (as indirect quotation): “because he thought that everyone knew what he had done” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

141EXO215yutrוַ⁠יְבַקֵּ֖שׁ לַ⁠הֲרֹ֣ג אֶת־מֹשֶׁ֑ה1

Pharaoh most likely delegated this task. Alternative translation: “and he sought to have Moses killed” (note that the passive form will not work in every language), see UST

142EXO215l5rcfigs-metonymyמִ⁠פְּנֵ֣י1

His face means his presence. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

143EXO215otslוַ⁠יֵּ֥שֶׁב…וַ⁠יֵּ֥שֶׁב1

These are the same verb. There are three possible interpretations: 1. Moses lived in Midian. He sat by this well one day. This may have been the well for the town he lived in. 2. Moses lived in Midian. His home was by this well. 3. Moses was a wanderer. He was in Midian and sat by this well when the next event occurred.

144EXO216shg5writing-backgroundוּ⁠לְ⁠כֹהֵ֥ן מִדְיָ֖ן שֶׁ֣בַע בָּנ֑וֹת1Now the priest of Midian had seven daughters

This sentence is background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

145EXO216pjzcwriting-neweventוּ⁠לְ⁠כֹהֵ֥ן מִדְיָ֖ן שֶׁ֣בַע בָּנ֑וֹת1

This sentence is used to mark a transition. However, the last clause of the previous verse (“and he sat down by a well”) seems to be related to this new scene so you may want to make your transition there as is done in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

146EXO216cfe5writing-participantsשֶׁ֣בַע בָּנ֑וֹת וַ⁠תָּבֹ֣אנָה1

The daughters are new participants. Indicate that in a way that is natural in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

147EXO216sm8ffigs-goוַ⁠תָּבֹ֣אנָה1

The perspective of the narrative is set at the well. The daughters came from elsewhere to the well. They were probably on foot. Here each language will need to choose the appropriate word. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

148EXO216v5ykfigs-possessionוּ⁠לְ⁠כֹהֵ֥ן מִדְיָ֖ן שֶׁ֣בַע בָּנ֑וֹת1

This is the possessive of social relationship. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

149EXO216esdmtranslate-numbersשֶׁ֣בַע 1

7 (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

150EXO216i2jhוַ⁠תִּדְלֶ֗נָה 1drew water

This means that they brought up water from a well.

151EXO216g1e6translate-unknownהָ֣⁠רְהָטִ֔ים1troughs

These were a long, narrow, open containers for animals to eat or drink out of. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

152EXO216p3uofigs-possessionצֹ֥אן אֲבִי⁠הֶֽן1

There are two possessives here: 1) their father is the possessive of social relationship; 2) the flock of … father is the possessive of ownership. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

153EXO217k5ycfigs-goוַ⁠יָּבֹ֥אוּ1

A group of men came. They may not have been far away before coming and driving the women away. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

154EXO217zksvwriting-participantsהָ⁠רֹעִ֖ים 1

These are new, very brief, participants. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

155EXO217z17mgrammar-connect-logic-contrastוַ⁠יָּ֤קָם1helped them

Use an expression that communicates that what Moses did was unexpected. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

156EXO218omzvfigs-goוַ⁠תָּבֹ֕אנָה1

The daughters came from the well to their father, probably on foot. You can use come or go. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

157EXO2187t7ttranslate-namesרְעוּאֵ֖ל1

Reuel, a name or perhaps a title, is used of the man only here and in Numbers 10:29. He is otherwise called “Jethro.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

158EXO21895f3writing-participantsרְעוּאֵ֖ל1

The priest of Midian was mentioned in v. 16 in a background statement but is a new participant starting here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

159EXO218tiqhfigs-possessionאֲבִי⁠הֶ֑ן1

This is a possessive of social relationship. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

160EXO218lukbfigs-quotationsוַ⁠יֹּ֕אמֶר מַדּ֛וּעַ מִהַרְתֶּ֥ן בֹּ֖א הַ⁠יּֽוֹם1

This is a direct quote. You could use an indirect quotation such as “and he asked how they were able to return so quickly that day.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

161EXO21844atfigs-goבֹּ֖א1

Alternative translation: “in returning” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

162EXO219r01gfigs-quotemarksאִ֣ישׁ מִצְרִ֔י הִצִּילָ֖⁠נוּ מִ⁠יַּ֣ד הָ⁠רֹעִ֑ים וְ⁠גַם־דָּלֹ֤ה דָלָה֙ לָ֔⁠נוּ וַ⁠יַּ֖שְׁקְ אֶת־הַ⁠צֹּֽאן1

This is a direct quote. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

163EXO2193g80אִ֣ישׁ מִצְרִ֔י1

Jethros daughters assume Moses was Egyptian. When you translate it, you should be clear that this refers to Moses.

164EXO219hvb4figs-metonymyמִ⁠יַּ֣ד1

Hand figuratively refers to the power, control, or actions of the shepherds. Alternative translation: “from the strength of” or “from the harm of” or see UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

165EXO2196gvbfigs-idiom​דָּלֹ֤ה דָלָה֙1

The repeated word expresses surprise or emphasizes the magnitude of Moses act of kindness to the women. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

166EXO220x73jfigs-possessionבְּנֹתָ֖י⁠ו1

This is a possessive of social relationship. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

167EXO220x9ybfigs-rquestionוְ⁠אַיּ֑⁠וֹ לָ֤⁠מָּה זֶּה֙ עֲזַבְתֶּ֣ן אֶת־הָ⁠אִ֔ישׁ1Why did you leave the man?

These questions are a mild rebuke to the daughters for not inviting Moses into their home according to the normal hospitality of that culture. Alternate translation: “You should not have left this man at the well!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

168EXO220p6xhfigs-quotemarksוְ⁠אַיּ֑⁠וֹ לָ֤⁠מָּה זֶּה֙ עֲזַבְתֶּ֣ן אֶת־הָ⁠אִ֔ישׁ קִרְאֶ֥ן ל֖⁠וֹ וְ⁠יֹ֥אכַל לָֽחֶם׃1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

169EXO220mb8wwriting-participantsל֖⁠וֹ1

Him refers to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

170EXO220hal8figs-synecdocheלָֽחֶם1

Bread is used to refer to food in general. Alternative translation: “food” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

171EXO221zvr1וַ⁠יּ֥וֹאֶל מֹשֶׁ֖ה לָ⁠שֶׁ֣בֶת אֶת־הָ⁠אִ֑ישׁ1Moses agreed to stay with the man

“Moses agreed to live with Reuel”

172EXO221y3q7translate-namesצִפֹּרָ֥ה1Zipporah

Zipporah is Reuels (Jethros) daughter. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

173EXO2214j8bfigs-possessionבִתּ֖⁠וֹ1

This is a possessive of social relationship. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

174EXO222l3xgfigs-quotemarksגֵּ֣ר הָיִ֔יתִי בְּ⁠אֶ֖רֶץ נָכְרִיָּֽה1

Only this portion is a quotation. As a possibility for clarity, the UST includes both speech events as one quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

175EXO222n5b1translate-namesגֵּרְשֹׁ֑ם1Gershom

This is Moses son. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

176EXO222f76mtranslate-namesגֵּרְשֹׁ֑ם1

His name, Gershom, sounds somewhat like the Hebrew for “a stranger here.” You may consider using a footnote to explain that. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

177EXO222q7d8גֵּ֣ר הָיִ֔יתִי בְּ⁠אֶ֖רֶץ נָכְרִיָּֽה1resident in a foreign land

“stranger in a foreign land”

178EXO223fjktwriting-neweventוַ⁠יְהִי֩ בַ⁠יָּמִ֨ים הָֽ⁠רַבִּ֜ים הָ⁠הֵ֗ם1

This introduces a new section and series of events. A large amount of time went by. According to Stephens sermon in Acts 7:30, Moses was in Midian 40 years. Alternative translation: “This is what happened during the many days Moses was in Midian.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

179EXO2231kw0writing-backgroundוַ⁠יְהִי֩ בַ⁠יָּמִ֨ים הָֽ⁠רַבִּ֜ים הָ⁠הֵ֗ם1

Verses 23-25 give a summary of what happened in Egypt and with the Israelites and God while Moses was in exile. These verses give background information to set the scene. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

180EXO223csg2וַ⁠יֵּאָנְח֧וּ1groaned

They groaned because of their sorrow and misery. Alternate translation: “sighed deeply”

181EXO223x84afigs-personificationוַ⁠תַּ֧עַל שַׁוְעָתָ֛⁠ם1their pleas went up to God

The cries of the Israelites are spoken of as if they were a person and were able to travel up to where God is. Alternate translation: “and their cries arose” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

182EXO224sja4figs-idiom וַ⁠יִּזְכֹּ֤ר אֱלֹהִים֙1God called to mind his covenant

This was a customary way of saying that God thought about what He had promised. Alternate translation: “and God recalled” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

183EXO3intron6ze0

Exodus 03 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter records one of the most important events in the history of the Israelite people: the revelation of the name Yahweh at the burning bush. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/reveal]])

Special concepts in this chapter

Gods holiness

God is so holy that people could not look upon him without dying. This is why Moses covered his eyes. It is also why he took off his shoes. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

Yahweh

The name Yahweh is sacred in the Hebrew religion. It is the personal name of God, which he revealed to Moses. It is by this name that he is known. Yahweh means “I am.” Some translations use all capitals to set this apart, “I AM.” Great care must be taken in translating the phrase “I am that I am.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/yahweh]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Participants

“The angel of Yahweh,” “Yahweh,” and “God” all appear to be speaking to Moses and interacting with him from the burning bush. Furthermore, God says that his name is “I AM.” (See note above on Yahweh and I AM.) Yahweh and God are the same while there is speculation about who the angel of Yahweh is.

184EXO31gqvhwriting-neweventוּ⁠מֹשֶׁ֗ה הָיָ֥ה רֹעֶ֛ה1

This phrase brings the story focus back to Midian and Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

185EXO31oqcrwriting-backgroundוּ⁠מֹשֶׁ֗ה הָיָ֥ה רֹעֶ֛ה אֶת־צֹ֛אן יִתְר֥וֹ חֹתְנ֖⁠וֹ כֹּהֵ֣ן מִדְיָ֑ן וַ⁠יִּנְהַ֤ג אֶת־הַ⁠צֹּאן֙ אַחַ֣ר הַ⁠מִּדְבָּ֔ר וַ⁠יָּבֹ֛א אֶל־הַ֥ר הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֖ים חֹרֵֽבָ⁠ה׃1

Verse 1 provides immediate background context, setting the scene for Moses interaction with Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

186EXO31jv7bfigs-possessionצֹ֛אן יִתְר֥וֹ1

This is an ownership possessive. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

187EXO311p00figs-possessionחֹתְנ֖⁠וֹ1

This is a possessive of social relationship. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

188EXO31l7x6figs-possessionכֹּהֵ֣ן מִדְיָ֑ן1

This is a possessive of social relationship. Jethro is a priest who serves the Midianites. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

189EXO31v97tfigs-goוַ⁠יָּבֹ֛א אֶל1

“and he arrived at” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

190EXO31p27sfigs-possessionהַ֥ר הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֖ים1

This is an associative possessive. This mountain was associated with God in some way. In Exodus 3:12 God tells Moses that he and the Israelites will serve him on this mountain. Later in the story, this promise is fulfilled, and it is where God makes his covenant with Israel and gives them the 10 Commandments. So it may have been called the mountain of God in retrospect (as Moses probably wrote this book sometime after the Israelites were wandering in the wilderness). However, it is possible that the mountain was already associated with Gods presence or worship somehow before Moses went there with the flock. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

191EXO32p0ntוַ֠⁠יֵּרָא מַלְאַ֨ךְ יְהֹוָ֥ה אֵלָ֛י⁠ו בְּ⁠לַבַּת־אֵ֖שׁ מִ⁠תּ֣וֹךְ הַ⁠סְּנֶ֑ה1

This is a summary of what happened. The next few verses tell the story of how this happened and how Moses discovered what was happening.

192EXO32x5ci​יְהֹוָ֥ה1Yahweh

This is the name of God that he revealed to his people in the Old Testament. See the translationWord page about Yahweh concerning how to translate this.

193EXO32d3tfgrammar-connect-logic-contrastוְ⁠הִנֵּ֤ה הַ⁠סְּנֶה֙ בֹּעֵ֣ר בָּ⁠אֵ֔שׁ וְ⁠הַ⁠סְּנֶ֖ה אֵינֶ֥⁠נּוּ אֻכָּֽל1behold

The word behold here shows that Moses saw something that was very different from what he expected. He expected the bush to be burnt up completely by the fire. Consider using an interjection in your language that expresses that the next thing is a surprise. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

194EXO323bvbfigs-metonymyאֻכָּֽל1

Being consumed means being eaten completely until gone. In the case of fire, this is a metonym for burning completely until gone. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

195EXO33fpwwfigs-quotemarksאָסֻֽרָה־נָּ֣א וְ⁠אֶרְאֶ֔ה אֶת־הַ⁠מַּרְאֶ֥ה הַ⁠גָּדֹ֖ל הַ⁠זֶּ֑ה מַדּ֖וּעַ לֹא־יִבְעַ֥ר הַ⁠סְּנֶֽה1

This is a direct quote. Its not specified who Moses spoke to; he may have been alone or with a group of shepherds or his family. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

196EXO34ue8vwriting-participantsיְהוָ֖ה… אֱלֹהִ֜ים1

These terms both refer to the same being since Gods name is Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

197EXO3560ahfigs-quotemarksאַל־תִּקְרַ֣ב הֲלֹ֑ם שַׁל־נְעָלֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ מֵ⁠עַ֣ל רַגְלֶ֔י⁠ךָ כִּ֣י הַ⁠מָּק֗וֹם אֲשֶׁ֤ר אַתָּה֙ עוֹמֵ֣ד עָלָ֔י⁠ו אַדְמַת־קֹ֖דֶשׁ הֽוּא1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

198EXO35prv9grammar-connect-logic-resultכִּ֣י הַ⁠מָּק֗וֹם אֲשֶׁ֤ר אַתָּה֙ עוֹמֵ֣ד עָלָ֔י⁠ו אַדְמַת־קֹ֖דֶשׁ הֽוּאכִּ֣י הַ⁠מָּק֗וֹם אֲשֶׁ֤ר אַתָּה֙ עוֹמֵ֣ד עָלָ֔י⁠ו אַדְמַת־קֹ֖דֶשׁ הֽוּא1set apart

This is the reason Moses must stop coming close to the burning bush and take off his sandals. Your language may need to put the reason before the commands, as in, “The place on which you are standing, it is holy ground, so you must not come close to here. Take your sandals off from on your feet.”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

199EXO36sxk8אָנֹכִי֙ אֱלֹהֵ֣י אָבִ֔י⁠ךָ אֱלֹהֵ֧י אַבְרָהָ֛ם אֱלֹהֵ֥י יִצְחָ֖ק וֵ⁠אלֹהֵ֣י יַעֲקֹ֑ב1the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob

All of these men worshiped the same God. Alternate translation: “the God of your father, of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob”

200EXO363qwafigs-quotemarksאָנֹכִי֙ אֱלֹהֵ֣י אָבִ֔י⁠ךָ אֱלֹהֵ֧י אַבְרָהָ֛ם אֱלֹהֵ֥י יִצְחָ֖ק וֵ⁠אלֹהֵ֣י יַעֲקֹ֑ב1

This a direct quotation. The UST continues the quotation from verse 5 rather than including an additional “he said.” This may be more natural in some languages. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

201EXO36l5syאָבִ֔י⁠ךָ1your father

Possible meanings are (1) “your ancestor” or (2) “your father.” If it means “your ancestor,” then the phrases following it clarify who “your father” refers to: it refers to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. If it means “your father,” then it refers to Mosess own father. It most cases it will be best to translate it as “your father,” i.e. Amram, Mosess father.

202EXO36lfbbgrammar-connect-logic-resultוַ⁠יַּסְתֵּ֤ר מֹשֶׁה֙ פָּנָ֔י⁠ו כִּ֣י יָרֵ֔א מֵ⁠הַבִּ֖יט אֶל־הָ⁠אֱלֹהִֽים1

Reason: for he was afraid from staring toward God Result: And Moses hid his face Some languages may need to put the reason before the result. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]] and Exodus 33:20)

203EXO37nl33figs-quotemarksוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָ֔ה1

After this phrase a direct quote begins that continues through the end of verse 10. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

204EXO37xoz0figs-idiomרָאֹ֥ה רָאִ֛יתִי1

The repetition of see expresses the intensity, certainty, or clarity of Yahwehs seeing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

205EXO37tpk0figs-possessionאֶת־עֳנִ֥י עַמִּ֖⁠י1

There are two possessives here. 1) “affliction of … people”: This is an event-related possessive where the people are the objects of affliction. They are treated badly as slaves. 2) “my people”: This one is more difficult as it involves both ownership and the possessive of social relationship. God views his people as his possession, and he is also in relationship with them as their God because they are descended from Abraham, though at this time they may not know God as theirs. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

206EXO37p3txfigs-metonymyמִ⁠פְּנֵ֣י נֹֽגְשָׂ֔י⁠ו1

Faces refers to the whole person or the presence of the person(s) who were oppressing the Israelites. If this image is used in your language, you may translate it. If a similar image is used, you may consider using it. If neither is the case, you may omit the word “face” and translate the meaning. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

207EXO37xx7rנֹֽגְשָׂ֔י⁠ו1taskmasters

“his oppressors”

208EXO37ofxtכִּ֥י1

The conjunction is probably functioning modally here, intensifying the expression of Yahwehs knowledge. Your translation should express Yahwehs knowing with certainty or strength.

209EXO37mfn2figs-collectivenounsנֹֽגְשָׂ֔י⁠ו…מַכְאֹבָֽי⁠ו1

These pronouns, him and his, refer to the Israelites as a group in the singular. They agree with “people” as a collective noun in 3:6. Some languages may have to use plural pronouns. Others may have to match the pronouns gender to the grammatical gender of the word for “people” in their language. If necessary, change “him” to “them” or change “his” to “hers” or “its” (depending on grammatical gender of “people”.) Alternate translation: “those who oppress them…their anguish” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-collectivenouns]])

210EXO37hkcjfigs-possessionמַכְאֹבָֽי⁠ו1

This is an event-related possessive where the people (as a group: his) are the subjects of anguish. Your translation should express that they are in deep mental and emotional distress (anguish). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

211EXO37ui28figs-explicitמַכְאֹבָֽי⁠ו1

It is implied that they are in deep mental and emotional distress (anguish) because they are treated badly as slaves. You may make this explicit. Alternate translation: “his anguish from his slavery” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

212EXO389ia8grammar-connect-logic-resultוָ⁠אֵרֵ֞ד לְ⁠הַצִּיל֣⁠וֹ׀ מִ⁠יַּ֣ד מִצְרַ֗יִם וּֽ⁠לְ⁠הַעֲלֹת⁠וֹ֮ מִן־הָ⁠אָ֣רֶץ הַ⁠הִוא֒ אֶל־אֶ֤רֶץ טוֹבָה֙ וּ⁠רְחָבָ֔ה אֶל־אֶ֛רֶץ זָבַ֥ת חָלָ֖ב וּ⁠דְבָ֑שׁ אֶל־מְק֤וֹם הַֽ⁠כְּנַעֲנִי֙ וְ⁠הַ֣⁠חִתִּ֔י וְ⁠הָֽ⁠אֱמֹרִי֙ וְ⁠הַ⁠פְּרִזִּ֔י וְ⁠הַ⁠חִוִּ֖י וְ⁠הַ⁠יְבוּסִֽי׃1

Verse 8 contains Gods intended result from his acts of seeing and hearing, expressed in both verses 7 and 9. You may need to expressly mark this, for instance by introducing verse 8 with something like “therefore,” and verse 9 with something like “again, because.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

213EXO38xy36figs-goוָ⁠אֵרֵ֞ד1

God is figuratively expressing that he is descending from heaven to earth to intervene. God is always everywhere, but this means his special attention will be directed to this situation. Use whatever form of come or go is appropriate in your language for this. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

214EXO38nahbfigs-collectivenounsלְ⁠הַצִּיל֣⁠וֹ…וּֽ⁠לְ⁠הַעֲלֹת⁠וֹ֮1

Here, him refers in the singular to the Israelites as a group. It is agreeing with “people” as a collective noun in 3:6. Some languages may have to use plural pronouns. Others may have to match the pronouns gender to the grammatical gender of the word for “people” in their language. See what you did in the previous verse. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-collectivenouns]])

215EXO388afvfigs-metaphorמִ⁠יַּ֣ד1

Someones hand is a common metaphor for power and control. Use a similar image if your language has one. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

216EXO38djbzfigs-possessionמִ⁠יַּ֣ד מִצְרַ֗יִם1

This is a possessive where the Egyptians are the subject of the hand, which means power. The Egyptians used their power and control to oppress the Israelites. Use a phrase in your language that expresses the idea of a group of people having power. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

217EXO38mqypfigs-parallelismאֶל־אֶ֤רֶץ טוֹבָה֙ וּ⁠רְחָבָ֔ה אֶל־אֶ֛רֶץ זָבַ֥ת חָלָ֖ב וּ⁠דְבָ֑שׁ1

There are multiple levels of parallelism here. First, the statements, to a good and wide land and to a land flowing with milk and honey are in parallel with each other. Within each of those, good and wide are in parallel with each other and also milk and honey are in parallel with each other. Each of these levels is meant to reinforce and expand on one another. These are not examples of synonymous parallelism, and each part of the statement should be translated. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

218EXO3837fpfigs-metonymyחָלָ֖ב וּ⁠דְבָ֑שׁ1

Here, milk is a metonym for domestic animals and the food products obtained from them; honey is a metonym for the food obtained from growing plants. See UST and the next note (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

219EXO38pxy8figs-metaphorאֶ֛רֶץ זָבַ֥ת חָלָ֖ב וּ⁠דְבָ֑שׁ1a land flowing with milk and honey

God spoke of the land being good for animals and plants as if the milk and honey from those animals and plants were flowing through the land. If this metaphor makes sense in your language, you may translate it, if your language has metaphors that mean a land is good for producing healthy livestock and good crops, you may consider using those. If neither is the case, you may translate the meaning. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

220EXO38dtz9​זָבַ֥ת1flowing with

“full of” or “with an abundance of”

221EXO38q94ifigs-metonymyחָלָ֖ב1milk

Since milk comes from cows and goats, this represents food produced by livestock. Alternate translation: “food from livestock” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

222EXO38l1asfigs-metonymyוּ⁠דְבָ֑שׁ1honey

Since honey is produced from flowers, this represents food from crops. Alternate translation: “food from crops” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

223EXO39a2kfgrammar-connect-logic-resultוְ⁠עַתָּ֕ה1

This functions as a discourse marker expressing logical conclusion. “Therefore” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

224EXO39tp2vfigs-exclamationsהִנֵּ֛ה1

This is a term meant to focus the attention of the listener on what the speaker is about to say. If there is not a good way to translate this term in your language, this term can be omitted from the translation, or you can use an alternate translation like “certainly.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]])

225EXO39uup9figs-personificationצַעֲקַ֥ת בְּנֵי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל בָּ֣אָה אֵלָ֑⁠י1the shouts of the people of Israel have come to me

Here, the cry is spoken of as if it were a person who is capable of moving on his own. Alternate translation: “I have heard the cries of the people of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

226EXO39gwoufigs-abstractnounsרָאִ֨יתִי֙ אֶת־הַ⁠לַּ֔חַץ אֲשֶׁ֥ר מִצְרַ֖יִם לֹחֲצִ֥ים אֹתָֽ⁠ם1

Here, oppression is an abstract noun which you could translate as a verb if you cannot use this form in your language. Alternate translation: “I have seen how the Egyptians are oppressing them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

227EXO310y4m1grammar-connect-logic-resultוְ⁠עַתָּ֣ה1

And now functions as a discourse marker expressing logical conclusion. “Therefore” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

228EXO310spwhfigs-quotemarksמִ⁠מִּצְרָֽיִם1

After this phrase, the direct quote of what the Yahweh said starting in 3:7 ends. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with a closing first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

229EXO311y8crfigs-rquestionמִ֣י אָנֹ֔כִי כִּ֥י אֵלֵ֖ךְ אֶל־פַּרְעֹ֑ה וְ⁠כִ֥י אוֹצִ֛יא אֶת־בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל מִ⁠מִּצְרָֽיִם1Who am I, that I should go to Pharaoh…Egypt?

Moses uses this question to tell God that he, Moses, is not the right person for the task. Alternate translation: See UST (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

230EXO311ax7wfigs-quotemarksמִ֣י אָנֹ֔כִי כִּ֥י אֵלֵ֖ךְ אֶל־פַּרְעֹ֑ה וְ⁠כִ֥י אוֹצִ֛יא אֶת־בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל מִ⁠מִּצְרָֽיִם1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

231EXO312ykp3figs-quotemarksכִּֽי־אֶֽהְיֶ֣ה עִמָּ֔⁠ךְ וְ⁠זֶה־לְּ⁠ךָ֣ הָ⁠א֔וֹת כִּ֥י אָנֹכִ֖י שְׁלַחְתִּ֑י⁠ךָ בְּ⁠הוֹצִֽיאֲ⁠ךָ֤ אֶת־הָ⁠עָם֙ מִ⁠מִּצְרַ֔יִם תַּֽעַבְדוּ⁠ן֙ אֶת־הָ֣⁠אֱלֹהִ֔ים עַ֖ל הָ⁠הָ֥ר הַ⁠זֶּֽה1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

232EXO312xugffigs-youdualתַּֽעַבְדוּ⁠ן֙1

If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

233EXO3138izvfigs-quotemarksהִנֵּ֨ה אָנֹכִ֣י בָא֮ אֶל־בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵל֒ וְ⁠אָמַרְתִּ֣י לָ⁠הֶ֔ם אֱלֹהֵ֥י אֲבוֹתֵי⁠כֶ֖ם שְׁלָחַ֣⁠נִי אֲלֵי⁠כֶ֑ם וְ⁠אָֽמְרוּ־לִ֣⁠י מַה־שְּׁמ֔⁠וֹ מָ֥ה אֹמַ֖ר אֲלֵ⁠הֶֽם1

This is a direct quotation containing two second-level quotes within it. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

234EXO313lqmsgrammar-connect-condition-hypotheticalהִנֵּ֨ה אָנֹכִ֣י בָא֮ אֶל־בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵל֒ וְ⁠אָמַרְתִּ֣י לָ⁠הֶ֔ם אֱלֹהֵ֥י אֲבוֹתֵי⁠כֶ֖ם שְׁלָחַ֣⁠נִי אֲלֵי⁠כֶ֑ם וְ⁠אָֽמְרוּ־לִ֣⁠י מַה־שְּׁמ֔⁠וֹ1

Moses presents God with a hypothetical situation here. The three events (go, say, say) are part of one hypothetical event. You should translate this in a way that makes it clear that this is a future, not-yet-real event. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]])

235EXO313jq42הִנֵּ֨ה1

Behold is a term meant to focus the attention of the listener on what the speaker is about to say. In this case, Moses uses it to introduce what he views as a probable future occurrence. Alternative translation: “Now”

236EXO3130n81figs-goבָא֮1

In your language, use go or “come” as makes most sense for Moses hypothetical action of going from the mountain to where the Israelites are. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

237EXO313m9uyfigs-quotesinquotesאֱלֹהֵ֥י אֲבוֹתֵי⁠כֶ֖ם שְׁלָחַ֣⁠נִי אֲלֵי⁠כֶ֑ם1

This is a second-level quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with second-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation inside a quotation. However, you may also choose to translate it as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “that the God of their fathers has sent me to them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

238EXO313ru0afigs-metaphorאֱלֹהֵ֥י אֲבוֹתֵי⁠כֶ֖ם1

Here, fathers figuratively means “ancestors.” Alternate translation: “The God of your ancestors” or “The God whom your ancestors worshiped” (See:[[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

239EXO313vfskfigs-quotemarksמַה־שְּׁמ֔⁠וֹ1

This is a second-level quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with second-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation inside a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

240EXO313bkeigrammar-connect-logic-resultמָ֥ה אֹמַ֖ר אֲלֵ⁠הֶֽם1

Moses is asking God what he should do as a result of the hypothetical situation he presented. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

241EXO314cli8אֶֽהְיֶ֖ה אֲשֶׁ֣ר אֶֽהְיֶ֑ה1God said to Moses, “I AM THAT I AM.”

This is Gods response to Mosess question about Gods name. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “God said to Moses, Tell them that God says his name is “I AM THAT I AM.”’”

242EXO314b6vkאֶֽהְיֶ֖ה אֲשֶׁ֣ר אֶֽהְיֶ֑ה1I AM THAT I AM

Possible meanings are (1) this whole sentence is Gods name or (2) God is not telling his name but something about himself. By saying this, God is teaching that he is eternal; he has always lived and always will live.

243EXO314s62uאֶֽהְיֶ֖ה…אֶֽהְיֶ֑ה…אֶֽהְיֶ֖ה1I AM

Languages that do not have an equivalent to the verb “am” may need to render this as “I LIVE” or “I EXIST.”

244EXO314t745וַ⁠יֹּ֗אמֶר1

This is still God speaking. It may make more sense to omit this in some languages.

245EXO31470gefigs-quotesinquotesאֶֽהְיֶ֖ה שְׁלָחַ֥⁠נִי אֲלֵי⁠כֶֽם1

This is a second-level quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with second-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation inside a quotation. However, you may also choose to translate it as an indirect quotation as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

246EXO315897bוַ⁠יֹּאמֶר֩ ע֨וֹד אֱלֹהִ֜ים אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֗ה1

As God is still speaking, it may make more sense to omit this in some languages.

247EXO3157aoafigs-quotemarksאֶל־מֹשֶׁ֗ה1

After this phrase, a direct quotation begins that continues until the end of chapter 3 at verse 22. This quotation contains four levels as God tells Moses to tell the Israelite elders a specific message from God. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

248EXO315l962figs-quotesinquotesיְהוָ֞ה אֱלֹהֵ֣י אֲבֹתֵי⁠כֶ֗ם אֱלֹהֵ֨י אַבְרָהָ֜ם אֱלֹהֵ֥י יִצְחָ֛ק וֵ⁠אלֹהֵ֥י יַעֲקֹ֖ב שְׁלָחַ֣⁠נִי אֲלֵי⁠כֶ֑ם זֶה־שְּׁמִ֣⁠י לְ⁠עֹלָ֔ם וְ⁠זֶ֥ה זִכְרִ֖⁠י לְ⁠דֹ֥ר דֹּֽר1

This is a second-level quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening second-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation within a quotation. It may be possible to translate it as an indirect quotation, but you will need to be careful to correctly change the pronoun persons. Alternative translation: “You must tell the Israelites that Yahweh, the God of their fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, sent you to them. This is his name forever, and this is his memorial from generation to generation.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

249EXO3152klcfigs-metaphorאֱלֹהֵ֣י אֲבֹתֵי⁠כֶ֗ם1

Here, fathers figuratively means “ancestors.” Alternate translation: “the God of your ancestors” or “the God whom your ancestors worshiped” (See:[[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

250EXO315ixcbfigs-merismלְ⁠דֹ֥ר דֹּֽר1

The repetition of generation means something like “to each and every generation,” which means for all people at all times. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

251EXO316ec3vfigs-quotemarksיְהוָ֞ה1General Information:

This begins a second-level quotation that continues until the end of verse 17. It contains a third-level quotation that begins at “I have certainly” and also continues to the end of verse 17. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening second-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation within a quotation. The closing marks for both the second and third-level quotations should not occur until the end of verse 17. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

252EXO31635pwfigs-metaphorאֱלֹהֵ֤י אֲבֹֽתֵי⁠כֶם֙1

Here, fathers figuratively means “ancestors.” Alternate translation: “the God of your ancestors” or “the God whom your ancestors worshiped” (See:[[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

253EXO316xqy9אַבְרָהָ֛ם יִצְחָ֥ק וְ⁠יַעֲקֹ֖ב1the God of your ancestors, the God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob

Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were three of the Israelites ancestors. They all worshiped the same God.

254EXO316dvszfigs-quotemarksפָּקֹ֤ד פָּקַ֨דְתִּי֙1

This begins a third-level quotation that continues until the end of verse 17. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening third-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation within a quotation that is within a quotation. The closing marks for both the second-level and third-level quotations should not occur until the end of verse 17. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

255EXO316efhhfigs-idiomפָּקֹ֤ד פָּקַ֨דְתִּי֙1

The Hebrew word meaning attended, visited, or observed is repeated here for emphasis. This word often means God is coming to take action. Translate this phrase in a way that communicates Gods focused, caring observation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

256EXO316fv77figs-youdualאֶתְ⁠כֶ֔ם1I have indeed observed you

The word you refers to the people of Israel. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

257EXO31655jmfigs-activepassiveהֶ⁠עָשׂ֥וּי1

In some languages you may not be able to translate this in the passive form. Alternative translation: see UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

258EXO3164vgcfigs-metonymyבְּ⁠מִצְרָֽיִם1

The phrase in Egypt is a metonym for the Egyptian oppressors. Alternative translation: “by the Egyptians” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

259EXO317c54kfigs-quotesinquotesאַעֲלֶ֣ה אֶתְ⁠כֶם֮ מֵ⁠עֳנִ֣י מִצְרַיִם֒ אֶל־אֶ֤רֶץ הַֽ⁠כְּנַעֲנִי֙ וְ⁠הַ֣⁠חִתִּ֔י וְ⁠הָֽ⁠אֱמֹרִי֙ וְ⁠הַ⁠פְּרִזִּ֔י וְ⁠הַ⁠חִוִּ֖י וְ⁠הַ⁠יְבוּסִ֑י אֶל־אֶ֛רֶץ זָבַ֥ת חָלָ֖ב וּ⁠דְבָֽשׁ1

This is a fourth-level quotation. It should be marked in some manner that distinguishes it from the outer three levels. Alternatively, it can be translated as an indirect quotation, see UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

260EXO317elojfigs-quotemarksוּ⁠דְבָֽשׁ1

If you are using direct quotations, at the end of this verse you should have three closing markers. In English, it looks like (without spaces). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

261EXO317r8mgfigs-idiomאַעֲלֶ֣ה1

Regardless of the geographic realities, to bring up does not primarily have a literal meaning. Rather, it means to bring the Israelites into a better situation. God promised to bring them up from their low status as slaves to a place where they would be the masters of a good land. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

262EXO317wyvtfigs-metonymyחָלָ֖ב וּ⁠דְבָֽשׁ1

Here, milk is a metonym for domestic animals and the food products obtained from them; honey is a metonym for the food obtained from growing plants. See UST and the next note (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

263EXO317pwn5figs-metaphor​אֶ֛רֶץ זָבַ֥ת חָלָ֖ב וּ⁠דְבָֽשׁ1a land flowing with milk and honey

God spoke of the land being good for animals and plants as if the milk and honey from those animals and plants were flowing through the land. See how you translated this in Exodus 3:8 at [[rc://en/tn/help/exo/03/08/pxy8]]. Alternate translation: “a land that is excellent for raising livestock and growing crops” or “a land where milk and honey flow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

264EXO317za9lזָבַ֥ת1flowing with

“full of” or “with an abundance of”

265EXO317rtr5figs-metonymy​חָלָ֖ב1milk

Since milk comes from cows and goats, this represents food produced by livestock. Alternate translation: “food from livestock” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

266EXO317msf8figs-metonymy​וּ⁠דְבָֽשׁ1honey

Since honey is produced from flowers, this represents food from crops. Alternate translation: “food from crops” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

267EXO318cy2zfigs-idiomוְ⁠שָׁמְע֖וּ1

Listen often means “hear and do/obey.” Alternative translation: “heed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

268EXO318j24kwriting-participantsלְ⁠קֹלֶ֑⁠ךָ…אַתָּה֩1They will listen to you

The word you refers to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

269EXO3189na8figs-synecdocheלְ⁠קֹלֶ֑⁠ךָ1

This phrase means the elders will listen to the message Moses brings from God. Alternative translation: “to your message” or “to my message which you tell them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

270EXO318r74ofigs-possessionוְ⁠זִקְנֵ֨י יִשְׂרָאֵ֜ל1

This is a possessive of social relationship. Alternative translation: “elders in charge of the Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

271EXO318eep7figs-collectivenounsיִשְׂרָאֵ֜ל1

Israel is a collective noun that refers to all the Israelites. Alternative translation: “the Israelites” or “the Israelite people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-collectivenouns]])

272EXO318ot9rfigs-metonymyמִצְרַ֗יִם1

Here, Egypt refers to the Egyptian nation. Alternate translation: “of the Egyptians” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

273EXO318idp7figs-youdualוַ⁠אֲמַרְתֶּ֤ם1General Information:

If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

274EXO318i47ofigs-exclusiveעָלֵ֔י⁠נוּ…נֵֽלֲכָה…וְ⁠נִזְבְּחָ֖ה1

These instances of us are exclusive; they include Moses, the elders, and all the Israelites, but exclude the king of Egypt. If your language makes this distinction, verify that you used the correct form. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

275EXO3184ealtranslate-numbersשְׁלֹ֤שֶׁת1

“3” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

276EXO319qf46figs-metonymy​וְ⁠לֹ֖א בְּ⁠יָ֥ד חֲזָקָֽה1unless his hand is forced

The word hand is a metonym for the power of the owner of the hand. Possible meanings are (1) “only if he sees that he has no power to do anything else,” where the “hand” belongs to Pharaoh; where the “hand” belongs to Yahweh, (2) “only if I force him to let you go” or (3) “not even if I force him to let you go.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]

277EXO320nuzxgrammar-connect-logic-resultוְ⁠שָׁלַחְתִּ֤י1

God says this will be a result of the king of Egypts stubbornness. Alternate translation: “Therefore I will send out” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

278EXO320yds5figs-metonymy וְ⁠שָׁלַחְתִּ֤י אֶת־יָדִ⁠י֙1I will reach out with my hand and attack

Here, hand refers to Gods power. Alternate translation: “I will use my strength” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

279EXO320dzspfigs-metonymyמִצְרַ֔יִם1

Egypt refers to both the land and the people group, and then, by extension, to Pharaoh as well. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

280EXO320c9a3מִצְרַ֔יִם…בְּ⁠קִרְבּ֑⁠וֹ1

Here, him refers to Egypt as a collective.

281EXO3206dw3grammar-connect-time-sequentialוְ⁠אַחֲרֵי־כֵ֖ן1

Here the sequential nature of these happenings is emphasized. Consider using a stronger sequential connective term than usual here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])

282EXO320ay53writing-participantsיְשַׁלַּ֥ח1

Here, he refers to the Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

283EXO320awxsfigs-youdualאֶתְ⁠כֶֽם1

Here, you refers to the Israelites. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here.(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

284EXO321btwcfigs-idiomחֵ֥ן…בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֣י מִצְרָ֑יִם1

In the eyes of the Egyptians is an idiom for the Egyptians feelings. Favor means those feelings are positive. Taken together, this means that when the Egyptians see the Israelites (Hebrews) leaving Egypt, they will gladly help them (because they want them to leave so badly due to the Egyptians suffering under Gods judgment). If your language has the same or a similar idiom, you can translate or use it. Otherwise, you can translate the meaning. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

285EXO32182wffigs-possessionבְּ⁠עֵינֵ֣י מִצְרָ֑יִם1

This is a part-whole possessive. Also, if your language uses a specific form of the possessive for things one cannot lose, it would be appropriate to use that form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

286EXO321s45uהָֽ⁠עָם־הַ⁠זֶּ֖ה1

“you”

287EXO321uz3cfigs-youdualתֵֽלֵכ֔וּ⁠ן…תֵלְכ֖וּ1

If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

288EXO32119slfigs-goתֵֽלֵכ֔וּ⁠ן…תֵלְכ֖וּ1

“leave” or “go out” or “come out” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

289EXO32189u7figs-doublenegativesלֹ֥א …רֵיקָֽם1

The double negative, not … emptily is used to mean “full.” Alternate translation: “[go] with many things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

290EXO321kt7bfigs-litotesלֹ֥א תֵלְכ֖וּ רֵיקָֽם1will not go empty-handed

This phrase is used to emphasize the opposite meaning. Alternate translation: “you will go with your hands full of good things” or “you will go with many valuable things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

291EXO322w2avוּ⁠מִ⁠גָּרַ֣ת בֵּיתָ֔⁠הּ1any women staying in her neighbors houses

Sojourning means living somewhere other than ones native land, usually temporarily. It is unclear both who the sojourning (visiting) women are and in whose house they are sojourning, leaving several possibilities. Most translations that make a decision about who they are identify both the temporary resident and her host home as Egyptian. This makes sense as the Israelites will be plundering the Egyptians. If it is possible to leave this ambiguous in your translation, that would be best.

292EXO322474qfigs-youdualוְ⁠שַׂמְתֶּ֗ם עַל־בְּנֵי⁠כֶם֙ וְ⁠עַל־בְּנֹ֣תֵי⁠כֶ֔ם וְ⁠נִצַּלְתֶּ֖ם1

Each of these is a plural you. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

293EXO322h38jfigs-quotemarksמִצְרָֽיִם1

After this phrase, the direct quote of Yahwehs word starting in verse 15 ends. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with a closing first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

294EXO4introkap50

Exodus 04 General Notes

Potential Translation Issues

Quotations

  • There is a difficult transition between 4:4 and 4:5 because the quotation stops in the middle to inject a bit of narrative. When it resumes in 4:5, the sentence seems incomplete (even if merged directly with the quotation fragment in 4:4). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])* Yahwehs instructions to Moses are complex and there are up to four levels of quotations in this chapter. Translators will need to decide if some of these need to become indirect quotations (if that is possible in their language) and take great care to use the proper quotation markings in the proper location.

Order of events

  • The order of events is not always clear. In 4:14 Yahweh tells Moses that Aaron is coming to meet him, but Yahweh telling Aaron to go meet Moses in the wilderness is not recorded until 4:27.
  • The timing of the events in 4:18-4:27, especially verse 18-19 and 27, in relation to the rest of the events of the chapter is unclear.

Thus says Yahweh

The first of over 400 occurrences throughout the Old Testament of a standard phrase used to introduce direct, authoritative instruction from Yahweh occurs in 4:22. It occurs ten times in the book of Exodus; nine of these are between chapters 411. It would be good for your team to have a standard way to translate this that makes it clear that the words that come next are directly from God. If your language has a standard way of introducing a new message from your leader that alerts the hearers that these are the words of the leader, that would be a good phrase to consider.

Yahwehs attempt to kill someone

The encounter recorded from 4:24 to 4:26 is one of the strangest and most difficult passages in the entire book. Difficulties include:

  • To whom do the pronouns refer? Masculine pronouns are used throughout the section, but there are two possible antecedents, Moses (who is not named in the narrative) and Zipporahs son (who was presumably also Moses son, but this is how he is referred to in this text. For why, see below on why Yahweh did this). Most commentators believe the pronouns refer to Moses.
  • Circumcision is described in fairly graphic detail. Different cultures will need to approach this differently. Some may have terms for circumcision, while others may be comfortable translating mostly literally, and others will need to use euphemisms or other strategies to translate. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/circumcise]])* The meaning of the phrase a bridegroom of blood (ULT) is unknown.
  • Why did Yahweh attack Moses? Many commentators conclude that Moses had neglected to circumcise one of his sons because it displeased Zipporah, and Yahweh was holding Moses responsible before he returned to lead the Israelites (who should have been circumcised). When Zipporah repented by circumcising the son herself and touching the foreskin to Moses feet, Yahweh relents. These conclusions should help inform translation but should not be made explicit in the text.

Study concepts in this chapter

Moses does not understand

Although Moses believes in Yahweh, he does not trust in him. This is because Moses lacks understanding. Moses tries to believe the things he is asked to do are done by his own power. Yahweh is trying to get Moses to trust that these things are Yahwehs doing. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/believe]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]])

Children of God

This chapter introduces the concept that Israel, the people group, is the chosen people of God and Gods firstborn son. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/elect]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/peopleofgod]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/firstborn]])

Yahweh hardened Pharaohs heart

Scholars are divided over how to understand this statement. There is debate over whether Pharaoh plays an active or passive role in the hardening of his own heart. Translators should simply follow the text. In Exodus 4-14 there are ten statements that Yahweh hardens Pharaohs heart, and ten statements that Pharaoh hardens his own heart. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

295EXO41j4ygוַ⁠יַּ֤עַן מֹשֶׁה֙ וַ⁠יֹּ֔אמֶר1if they do not believe

Here, answered and said is a Hebrew expression which does not convey any extra information. Unless your language naturally uses a similar structure, it is better to translate one verb and omit the other. Alternate translation: “Moses answered”

296EXO41b3xvfigs-quotemarksוְ⁠הֵן֙ לֹֽא־יַאֲמִ֣ינוּ לִ֔⁠י וְ⁠לֹ֥א יִשְׁמְע֖וּ בְּ⁠קֹלִ֑⁠י כִּ֣י יֹֽאמְר֔וּ לֹֽא־נִרְאָ֥ה אֵלֶ֖י⁠ךָ יְהוָֽה1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

297EXO41netofigs-quotesinquotesלֹֽא־נִרְאָ֥ה אֵלֶ֖י⁠ךָ יְהוָֽה1

This is a second-level quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with second-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation within a quotation. However, you could translate it as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “that Yahweh has not appeared to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

298EXO41327jוְ⁠הֵן֙1

This is a term meant to focus the attention of the listener on what the speaker is about to say. If there is not a good way to translate this term in your language, this term can be omitted from the translation, or you can use an alternate translation like “Listen to me.”

299EXO4287dlwriting-participantsאֵלָ֛י⁠ו…וַ⁠יֹּ֖אמֶר1

“Moses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

300EXO42r3f9figs-quotemarksמ⁠זה בְ⁠יָדֶ֑⁠ךָ1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

301EXO42p8sgfigs-quotemarksמַטֶּֽה1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

302EXO43jgirfigs-quotemarksהַשְׁלִיכֵ֣⁠הוּ אַ֔רְצָ⁠ה1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

303EXO43zycdfigs-metonymyמִ⁠פָּנָֽי⁠ו1

Here, “face” figuratively represents the snake itself. Alternative translation: “from the snake” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

304EXO44g6bkוֶ⁠אֱחֹ֖ז בִּ⁠זְנָב֑⁠וֹ1take it by the tail

“and pick it up by the tail” or “and grasp it by the tail”

305EXO44mqpcfigs-quotemarksשְׁלַח֙ יָֽדְ⁠ךָ֔ וֶ⁠אֱחֹ֖ז בִּ⁠זְנָב֑⁠וֹ1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

306EXO44bzmpgrammar-connect-time-sequentialשְׁלַח֙ יָֽדְ⁠ךָ֔ וֶ⁠אֱחֹ֖ז בִּ⁠זְנָב֑⁠וֹ1

This direct quotation is interrupted by Moses obeying Yahweh. This is probably a tightly ordered sequence of events where Yahweh paused and then continued speaking immediately after Moses obeyed. The quote resumes in verse 5 and there is more discussion there about how to handle the resumption.(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])

307EXO44m86nוַ⁠יְהִ֥י לְ⁠מַטֶּ֖ה1became a staff

“and it turned into a rod” or “and it changed into a staff”

308EXO45l4tnfigs-quotemarksלְמַ֣עַן יַאֲמִ֔ינוּ כִּֽי־נִרְאָ֥ה אֵלֶ֛י⁠ךָ יְהוָ֖ה אֱלֹהֵ֣י אֲבֹתָ֑⁠ם אֱלֹהֵ֧י אַבְרָהָ֛ם אֱלֹהֵ֥י יִצְחָ֖ק וֵ⁠אלֹהֵ֥י יַעֲקֹֽב1

This continues the direct quotation from the first part of verse 4. It may be more natural to reorganize verses four and five to keep the quote together. If you rearrange like this, Moses picking up the snake/staff should come after the full quotation. However, it is better to do something similar to the UST, which restates that Yahweh is speaking and provides some implied directives from Yahweh to make a complete sentence. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

309EXO45m4fkfigs-ellipsisלְמַ֣עַן יַאֲמִ֔ינוּ כִּֽי־נִרְאָ֥ה אֵלֶ֛י⁠ךָ יְהוָ֖ה אֱלֹהֵ֣י אֲבֹתָ֑⁠ם אֱלֹהֵ֧י אַבְרָהָ֛ם אֱלֹהֵ֥י יִצְחָ֖ק וֵ⁠אלֹהֵ֥י יַעֲקֹֽב1

This quote is not a complete sentence; the UST provides a clarification. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

310EXO459iokwriting-participantsיַאֲמִ֔ינוּ…אֲבֹתָ֑⁠ם1

These pronouns refer either to the Israelites or to the Israelite elders. God had instructed Moses to gather and speak to the elders; if you make this participant explicit, elders is a better option. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

311EXO45oqi5writing-participantsאֵלֶ֛י⁠ךָ1

This refers to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

312EXO45jr8mאֱלֹהֵ֣י אֲבֹתָ֑⁠ם אֱלֹהֵ֧י אַבְרָהָ֛ם אֱלֹהֵ֥י יִצְחָ֖ק וֵ⁠אלֹהֵ֥י יַעֲקֹֽב1the God of their ancestors, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob

Abraham, Isaac and Jacob were three of their ancestors. They all worshiped the same God.

313EXO460hrefigs-quotemarksהָֽבֵא־נָ֤א יָֽדְ⁠ךָ֙ בְּ⁠חֵיקֶ֔⁠ךָ1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

314EXO46ep52figs-exclamationsוְ⁠הִנֵּ֥ה1behold

This word is used to create an exclamation, showing surprise. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]])

315EXO46pw7gfigs-simileכַּ⁠שָּֽׁלֶג1as white as snow

The word like (ULT) or “as” (UST) here is used to compare how Moses hand looked. You may not have a word for snow in your language. If so, consider an alternative that describes something very white. You may need to make the whiteness explicit. Alternate translation: “like wool” or “that made it look white like the sand on the beach” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

316EXO47kv9rfigs-quotemarksהָשֵׁ֤ב יָֽדְ⁠ךָ֙ אֶל־חֵיקֶ֔⁠ךָ1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

317EXO47prr9figs-exclamationsוְ⁠הִנֵּה1

This word is used to create an exclamation, showing surprise. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]])

318EXO48q9qbfigs-exclamationsוְ⁠הָיָה֙ 1

Yahwehs speech resumes here and continues through the end of verse 9. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

319EXO48wellfigs-personificationוְ⁠לֹ֣א יִשְׁמְע֔וּ לְ⁠קֹ֖ל הָ⁠אֹ֣ת הָ⁠רִאשׁ֑וֹן וְ⁠הֶֽאֱמִ֔ינוּ לְ⁠קֹ֖ל הָ⁠אֹ֥ת הָ⁠אַחֲרֽוֹן1

Here the signs are spoken of as if they had a voice with which they could speak. If this imagery would not make sense in your language, you may need to translate this in a way that makes explicit that the signs are meant to be proof that God sent Moses. Alternative translation: “and are not convinced that God has appeared to you by seeing the first sign, then they will be convinced by seeing the second sign.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

320EXO48gxlgwriting-participantsיַאֲמִ֣ינוּ…יִשְׁמְע֔וּ…וְ⁠הֶֽאֱמִ֔ינוּ1

These pronouns refer either to the Israelites or to the Israelite elders. God had instructed Moses to gather and speak to the elders; if you make this participant explicit, elders is the better option, but be sure to do the same as you did in verse 5. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

321EXO48lsb3לֹ֣א יַאֲמִ֣ינוּ…וְ⁠הֶֽאֱמִ֔ינוּ1pay attention

“they do not acknowledge… then they will acknowledge” or “they do not accept… then they will accept”

322EXO49q82rwriting-participantsיַאֲמִ֡ינוּ…יִשְׁמְעוּ⁠ן֙1

These pronouns refer either to the Israelites or to the Israelite elders. God had instructed Moses to gather and speak to the elders; if you make this participant explicit, elders is the better option, but be sure to do the same as you did in verse 5. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

323EXO492hnafigs-quotemarksוְ⁠הָי֥וּ לְ⁠דָ֖ם בַּ⁠יַּבָּֽשֶׁת1

After this phrase, the direct quote of Yahwehs speech from the previous verse ends. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with a closing first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

324EXO410aazpfigs-quotemarksבִּ֣י אֲדֹנָ⁠י֒ לֹא֩ אִ֨ישׁ דְּבָרִ֜ים אָנֹ֗כִי גַּ֤ם מִ⁠תְּמוֹל֙ גַּ֣ם מִ⁠שִּׁלְשֹׁ֔ם גַּ֛ם מֵ⁠אָ֥ז דַּבֶּרְ⁠ךָ אֶל־עַבְדֶּ֑⁠ךָ כִּ֧י כְבַד־פֶּ֛ה וּ⁠כְבַ֥ד לָשׁ֖וֹן אָנֹֽכִי1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

325EXO410t8i9בִּ֣י1

This word is used by a speaker to beg a superior to allow him to speak. Alternate translation: “Please”

326EXO410w12aלֹא֩ אִ֨ישׁ דְּבָרִ֜ים אָנֹ֗כִי גַּ֤ם מִ⁠תְּמוֹל֙ גַּ֣ם מִ⁠שִּׁלְשֹׁ֔ם1have never been eloquent

“I have never been an excellent speaker”

327EXO410opesאִ֨ישׁ דְּבָרִ֜ים1

This expression means “a man who uses words well,” in other words, an eloquent man who can speak well and convincingly.

328EXO410pk0lfigs-merismגַּ֤ם מִ⁠תְּמוֹל֙ גַּ֣ם מִ⁠שִּׁלְשֹׁ֔ם1

This phrase simply means “in the past.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

329EXO410wsl4figs-123personעַבְדֶּ֑⁠ךָ1

Moses refers to himself as Gods servant to lower his status before God (and perhaps by doing so to make his argument of inability stronger). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

330EXO410bv64figs-doubletכְבַד־פֶּ֛ה וּ⁠כְבַ֥ד לָשׁ֖וֹן1I am slow of speech and slow of tongue

These phrases mean basically the same thing. Moses uses them to emphasize that he is not a good speaker. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

331EXO410zm3yfigs-metonymyלָשׁ֖וֹן1slow of tongue

Here, tongue refers to Moses ability to speak. Alternate translation: “speech” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

332EXO411xpgffigs-quotemarksוַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר יְהוָ֜ה אֵלָ֗י⁠ו1

After this phrase, a direct quote begins that continues to the end of the next verse. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

333EXO411ks2mfigs-rquestionמִ֣י שָׂ֣ם פֶּה֮ לָֽ⁠אָדָם֒1Who is it who made mans mouth?

Yahweh uses this question to emphasize that he is the Creator who makes it possible for people to speak. Alternate translation: “I, Yahweh, am the one who created the human mouth and the ability to speak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

334EXO411e1y6figs-rquestionמִֽי־יָשׂ֣וּם אִלֵּ֔ם א֣וֹ חֵרֵ֔שׁ א֥וֹ פִקֵּ֖חַ א֣וֹ עִוֵּ֑ר1Who makes a man mute or deaf or seeing or blind?

Yahweh uses this question to emphasize that he is the one who decides if people can speak and hear, and if they can see. Alternate translation: “I, Yahweh, make people able to speak, or hear, or to see, or to be blind!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

335EXO411uq7jfigs-rquestionהֲ⁠לֹ֥א אָנֹכִ֖י יְהוָֽה1Is it not I, Yahweh?

Yahweh uses this question to emphasize that he alone makes these decisions. Alternate translation: “I, Yahweh, am the one who does this!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

336EXO412kkr1figs-metonymyוְ⁠אָנֹכִי֙ אֶֽהְיֶ֣ה עִם־פִּ֔י⁠ךָ1I will be with your mouth

Here, mouth refers to Moses ability to speak. Alternate translation: “I will give you the ability to speak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

337EXO4125dxgfigs-quotemarksתְּדַבֵּֽר1

After this phrase, the direct quote from the previous verse ends. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with a closing first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

338EXO413zy9mfigs-quotemarksבִּ֣י אֲדֹנָ֑⁠י שְֽׁלַֽח־נָ֖א בְּ⁠יַד־תִּשְׁלָֽח1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

339EXO413brerבִּ֣י1

This word is used by a speaker to beg a superior to allow him to speak. See what you did in verse 10. Alternate translation: “Please”

340EXO413s8nlשְֽׁלַֽח־נָ֖א בְּ⁠יַד־תִּשְׁלָֽח1

In translating this phrase, it is important to make clear that Moses is asking Yahweh to send someone else. Here he is not accepting Yahwehs commission.

341EXO4138ta6figs-synecdocheבְּ⁠יַד1

This phrase means “by a person.” The figure is of a person taking Yahwehs message in his hand to the Israelites and Pharaoh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

342EXO414uy2vfigs-idiomוַ⁠יִּֽחַר־אַ֨ף יְהוָ֜ה 1

This is an idiom meaning that Yahweh is angry. Alternate translation: “Yahweh became angry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

343EXO414ifaxwriting-participantsוַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר֙1

“and Yahweh said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

344EXO414zn40figs-quotemarksבְּ⁠מֹשֶׁ֗ה וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר֙1

After this phrase a direct quote begins that continues until the end of verse 17. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

345EXO414okkofigs-rquestionהֲ⁠לֹ֨א אַהֲרֹ֤ן אָחִ֨י⁠ךָ֙ הַ⁠לֵּוִ֔י1

Yahweh uses this rhetorical question to suggest an alternative to Moses. Alternative translation: “I know you have a brother, Aaron the Levite.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

346EXO414e0jsfigs-kinshipאָחִ֨י⁠ךָ֙1

His brother Aaron was three years older than Moses (see Exodus 7:7), which may be important for translating “brother” in some languages. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-kinship]])

347EXO414y5edfigs-idiomדַבֵּ֥ר יְדַבֵּ֖ר1

In Hebrew, the word speak is repeated. This means he speaks well. English cannot convey this by doubling, so the meaning of the repetition was translated in the ULT in this case. If your language can say something like “speaking speaks” to mean “speaks well,” consider it; otherwise, translate the meaning similarly to the ULT or UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

348EXO4148q64הִנֵּה1

Behold is used to draw attention to surprising information that follows. If your language has a term that functions in that way (“Listen!” or “Look!” or “Pay Attention!”), use it here.

349EXO414ettpfigs-goיֹצֵ֣א1

Yahweh says Aaron is coming from Egypt to Midian to find Moses. He is probably on foot. Depending on the language, the required form of go or come may vary. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

350EXO4148kn8grammar-connect-logic-resultוְ⁠שָׂמַ֥ח1

Aaron will be glad because he sees Moses. Consider a conjunction or other form that expresses result as in the UST or alternative translation: “and because he sees you, he will have joy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

351EXO414ew4hfigs-metonymyבְּ⁠לִבּֽ⁠וֹ1he will be glad in his heart

Here, heart refers to inner thoughts and emotions. If the heart is not a body part your culture uses to refer to a persons thoughts and emotions, consider using whichever organ your culture would use for this image. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

352EXO415u97ffigs-metaphorהַ⁠דְּבָרִ֖ים1put the words to say into his mouth

Words here are spoken of as if they were something that can be physically placed in a persons mouth. Alternate translation: “the message that he is to repeat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

353EXO415q9cffigs-metonymyוְ⁠אָנֹכִ֗י אֶֽהְיֶ֤ה עִם־פִּ֨י⁠ךָ֙ וְ⁠עִם־פִּ֔י⁠הוּ1I will be with your mouth

The word mouth here represents Moses and Aarons choice of words. Alternate translation: “And I will be with you as you speak and with him as he speaks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

354EXO415v57xfigs-youdualאֶתְ⁠כֶ֔ם…תַּעֲשֽׂוּ⁠ן1with his mouth

These refer to Moses and Aaron. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a dual form if you have one or, if not, use a plural. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

355EXO416mnspfigs-simileלְ⁠פֶ֔ה1

This phrase compares Aaron to a mouth, because he will be the one to actually vocalize to the Israelites and Pharaoh what Moses tells him to say. Alternate translation: “the one to say what you tell him to say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

356EXO416gn5vfigs-simileתִּֽהְיֶה־לּ֥⁠וֹ לֵֽ⁠אלֹהִֽים1you will be to him like me, God

The word like here means Moses would represent the same authority to Aaron as God did to Moses. Alternate translation: “you will speak to Aaron with the same authority with which I speak to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

357EXO4170h45figs-quotemarksתַּעֲשֶׂה־בּ֖⁠וֹ אֶת־הָ⁠אֹתֹֽת1

After this phrase, the direct quote of Yahweh ends. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with a closing first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

358EXO4176brkfigs-explicitהַ⁠מַּטֶּ֥ה הַ⁠זֶּ֖ה1

Yahweh assumes that Moses will know that by this staff, he means the one that Moses said he had in his hand in v. 2, and with which God told him to do a miracle in vv. 34. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

359EXO418j2ixwriting-participantsיֶ֣תֶר1

Jethro is reintroduced as a participant in the narrative here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

360EXO418cbopfigs-goוַ⁠יֵּ֨לֶךְ1

Because the setting has shifted back to Jethros home, some languages may need to use “come” here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

361EXO418b6mffigs-kinshipחֹֽתְנ֗⁠וֹ1father-in-law

This refers to the father of Moses wife. Some languages may use a different term for the husbands or wifes father. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-kinship]])

362EXO418wlitwriting-participantsוַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר1

“and Moses said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

363EXO4187zkewriting-participantsל⁠וֹ֙1

“to Jethro” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

364EXO418uvqkfigs-quotemarksאֵ֣לֲכָה נָּ֗א וְ⁠אָשׁ֨וּבָה֙ אֶל־אַחַ֣⁠י אֲשֶׁר־בְּ⁠מִצְרַ֔יִם וְ⁠אֶרְאֶ֖ה הַ⁠עוֹדָ֣⁠ם חַיִּ֑ים1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

365EXO41867yzfigs-metonymyאַחַ֣⁠י1

“my relatives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

366EXO418gq2gfigs-idiomוְ⁠אֶרְאֶ֖ה הַ⁠עוֹדָ֣⁠ם1

Later in the Bible we are told that Moses was in Midian for 40 years. Moses request may have been literal or an idiom that meant he wanted to know how they were doing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

367EXO418yay3figs-explicitלֵ֥ךְ לְ⁠שָׁלֽוֹם1

This is a phrase of assent and blessing. It may be necessary for some languages to explicitly add, “Yes,” to the beginning of Jethros response. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

368EXO418i807figs-quotemarksלֵ֥ךְ לְ⁠שָׁלֽוֹם1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

369EXO419wwr8grammar-connect-time-sequentialוַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר יְהוָ֤ה אֶל־מֹשֶׁה֙1

The timing and situation for Yahweh speaking to Moses here is not specified. Some conjecture that it was part of the narrative of the encounter with Yahweh from the previous verses but placed after his request to Jethro for an unknown reason. Another speculation is that Moses delayed returning to Egypt (either by his own choice, Yahwehs instructions, or someone else delaying him) and Yahweh came and told him again (the UST explicitly offers this optional translation). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])

370EXO419aosmfigs-quotemarksלֵ֖ךְ שֻׁ֣ב מִצְרָ֑יִם כִּי־מֵ֨תוּ֙ כָּל־הָ֣⁠אֲנָשִׁ֔ים הַֽ⁠מְבַקְשִׁ֖ים אֶת־נַפְשֶֽׁ⁠ךָ1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

371EXO419clfjהַֽ⁠מְבַקְשִׁ֖ים אֶת־נַפְשֶֽׁ⁠ךָ1

This means they were seeking to end his life, that is, to kill him. Alternate translation: see UST.

372EXO420fua6writing-participantsבָּנָ֗י⁠ו1

Moses second son is not introduced until 18:4 but had already been born before they left Midian. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

373EXO420zi5mwriting-participantsוַ⁠יָּ֖שָׁב אַ֣רְצָ⁠ה מִצְרָ֑יִם1

It is clear from verse 24 and 25 that his family went with him, so you may need to translate as “they returned.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

374EXO42047k5grammar-connect-time-sequentialוַ⁠יָּ֖שָׁב אַ֣רְצָ⁠ה מִצְרָ֑יִם1

After the incident on the road in verses 24-26, Moses family is not mentioned again until 18:2 which says that Moses sent them back, so a translation similar to the UST which only commits to the family starting on the way to Egypt may be better. This option has the further benefit of allowing for the several events that happen before Moses gets to Egypt. The ULTs “towards” is another way of giving space in the translation for the next several events. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])

375EXO420768nfigs-explicitמַטֵּ֥ה הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֖ים1

The phrase the staff of God refers to the staff that God told Moses to take with him in v. 17. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

376EXO4207e3sfigs-explicitמַטֵּ֥ה הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֖ים1

The book describes this staff as the staff of God because God appointed it as his instrument so that Moses could do miraculous works through it. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Make sure your translation does not lead people to think the staff was a magic wand or shamans staff that had its own power, or power from Moses, or that the staff gave Moses the ability to command God. In every instance where miracles happened, God told Moses to do something with the staff, Moses obeyed, and then God caused a miracle. Alternate translation: “the staff that God had told him to bring because God intended to work powerfully through it when Moses stretched it out.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

377EXO421lva8figs-quotemarksבְּ⁠לֶכְתְּ⁠ךָ֙ 1

This begins a direct quotation that continues to the end of 4:23. It contains up to fourth-level quotations. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

378EXO421oajfרְאֵ֗ה1

Most translations and interpretations of the verb see take it to mean something like “see that you do.”

379EXO4210gqffigs-metaphorכָּל־הַ⁠מֹּֽפְתִים֙ אֲשֶׁר־שַׂ֣מְתִּי בְ⁠יָדֶ֔⁠ךָ1

Here the miracles are spoken of as if they were items Moses could carry. In part, this may be because the three signs already given to Moses involved the use of his hand. Alternative translation: “all the wonders I have authorized you to perform” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

380EXO421kdsbfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֑ה1

This time while before the face of still has the standard figurative meaning of “in the presence of,” it is a much more literal use here. Moses is to actually do the miracles in front of Pharaoh so he can see them. Alternative translation: “so Pharaoh can see them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

381EXO421ovmagrammar-connect-logic-contrastוַ⁠אֲנִי֙ אֲחַזֵּ֣ק1

Referring to himself in the opening of this sentence serves to emphasize a contrast in what might be expected and what will happen. Translate this in a way that clearly contrasts the performance of miracles before Pharaoh (which might be expected to lead to him releasing the Israelites) with what Yahweh says he will do. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

382EXO421uvohfigs-metaphorוַ⁠אֲנִי֙ אֲחַזֵּ֣ק אֶת־לִבּ֔⁠וֹ1

This means that God will make him stubborn. His stubborn attitude is spoken of as if his heart would be made stronger. If the heart is not the body part your culture uses to refer to a persons will, consider using whichever organ your culture would use for this image. Alternate translation: “But as for me, I will cause Pharaoh to be stubborn” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

383EXO421uudzgrammar-connect-logic-resultוְ⁠לֹ֥א יְשַׁלַּ֖ח אֶת־הָ⁠עָֽם1

Make it clear in your translation that this is a result of God hardening Pharaohs heart. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

384EXO422ftdeכֹּ֚ה אָמַ֣ר יְהוָ֔ה1

This is the first of hundreds of occurrences throughout the Old Testament of a standard phrase used to introduce direct, authoritative instruction from Yahweh. It would be good for your team to have a standard way to translate this that makes it clear that the words that come next are directly from God. If your language has a standard way of introducing a new message from your rulers that alerts the hearers that these are the words of the rulers, that would be a good phrase to consider.

385EXO422zb2efigs-quotesinquotesכֹּ֚ה1

Thus begins a second-level quotation that continues until the end of 4:23. It should be marked in some manner that distinguishes it from the outer level, the first level. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

386EXO422teyyfigs-quotesinquotesכֹּ֚ה אָמַ֣ר יְהוָ֔ה1

This begins a second-level quotation that continues until the end of 4:23. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening second-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation within a quotation. However, you may want to translate this as an indirect quotation in order to reduce the levels of quotations in this passage. Alternative translation: “that Yahweh says” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

387EXO422kud7figs-quotemarksבְּנִ֥⁠י1

This is the beginning of a third-level quotation that continues until the end of 4:23. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening third-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation within a quotation within a quotation. (If you chose to translate, “Thus says Yahweh,” as an indirect quote, this will be a second- level quotation.) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

388EXO4221od0figs-metaphorבְּנִ֥⁠י בְכֹרִ֖⁠י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃1

Some languages may need to change the metaphor here into a simile. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

389EXO422pt4nfigs-collectivenounsיִשְׂרָאֵֽל1Israel is my son

The word Israel here represents all the people of Israel as a group. It is important to keep the singular reference to Israel as son, rather than change it to something like the Israelites are my children, because God is making a particular contrast here between his son and Pharaohs son. Some languages may not be able to use “Israel” as a collective noun and may need to choose a translation like “the nation of Israel” or “the Israelite nation.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-collectivenouns]])

390EXO4228oc8figs-metonymyיִשְׂרָאֵֽל1

The Israelite nation is often referred to simply by the name of the patriarch. For alternative translation see: [[rc://en/tn/help/exo/04/22/pt4n]] (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

391EXO423syarfigs-quotemarksשַׁלַּ֤ח אֶת־בְּנִ⁠י֙ וְ⁠יַֽעַבְדֵ֔⁠נִי1

This is a fourth-level quotation. It should be marked in some manner that distinguishes it from the outer levels. (If you chose to translate “Thus says Yahweh” as an indirect quote, this will be a third-level quotation.) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

392EXO4230pc4figs-quotationsוָ⁠אֹמַ֣ר אֵלֶ֗י⁠ךָ שַׁלַּ֤ח אֶת־בְּנִ⁠י֙ וְ⁠יַֽעַבְדֵ֔⁠נִי וַ⁠תְּמָאֵ֖ן1

The fourth-level quotation here may be a good one to translate as an indirect quotation in order to reduce the levels of quotations in this passage. Alternative translation: “and I told you to let my son go that he may serve me. But you have refused” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

393EXO423k7mhfigs-metaphorבְּנִ⁠י֙1you have refused to let him go

Yahweh continues to metaphorically speak of Israel as my son. See what you did at [[rc://en/tn/help/exo/04/22/1od0]]. Alternative translation: “the Israelite nation which is like a son to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

394EXO423u825figs-pronounsוְ⁠יַֽעַבְדֵ֔⁠נִי…לְ⁠שַׁלְּח֑⁠וֹ1

The pronouns he and him agree with “son.” What you use may depend on how you translated son at [[rc://en/tn/help/exo/04/23/k7mh]]. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])

395EXO4232g32הִנֵּה֙1

This is used to draw attention to surprising information that follows. Alternative translation: “Know this”

396EXO423re11בִּנְ⁠ךָ֖ 1I will certainly kill your son, your firstborn

This refers to the actual son of Pharaoh.

397EXO423ubcwfigs-quotemarksבִּנְ⁠ךָ֖ בְּכֹרֶֽ⁠ךָ1

After this phrase, the three levels of direct quotations end bringing a complete close to all quotations that started in verses 21 and 22. If you are using direct quotations, at the end of this verse you should have three closing markers, third level, second level and first level. In English, it looks like (without spaces). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

398EXO424sp6hwriting-neweventוַ⁠יְהִ֥י1Yahweh met Moses and tried to kill him

This introduces a new event. Mark the transition in a natural way in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

399EXO424p820writing-participantsוַ⁠יִּפְגְּשֵׁ֣⁠הוּ…הֲמִיתֽ⁠וֹ1

Here, it is not clear who him refers to. Most commentators believe it refers to Moses, but it could refer to the son, though that is less likely. If it is necessary to choose for your translation, use Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

400EXO4243xy0writing-participantsהֲמִיתֽ⁠וֹ1

Here, he refers to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

401EXO425m1latranslate-namesצִפֹּרָ֜ה1Zipporah

This is the name of Mosess wife. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

402EXO425sftgwriting-participantsצִפֹּרָ֜ה1

Zipporah is introduced here as a new participant. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

403EXO425a36htranslate-unknownצֹ֗ר1flint knife

This was a knife with a sharpened stone blade. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

404EXO425nkxntranslate-unknownעָרְלַ֣ת1

Theforeskin is the retractable fold of skin which covers and protects the end of the penis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

405EXO425l6srfigs-euphemismלְ⁠רַגְלָ֑י⁠ו1to his feet

It is possible that the word feet may have been a more respectful way to refer to the genital area of the body. However, that possibility is not high enough that you should translate it either literally as genitals or with another euphemism meaning genitals in your language. If you have a word that means primarily feet or legs, but could in some cases also euphemistically mean genitals, you may consider it. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

406EXO4253g3xfigs-quotemarksכִּ֧י חֲתַן־דָּמִ֛ים אַתָּ֖ה לִֽ⁠י1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

407EXO425b2t3figs-metaphorכִּ֧י חֲתַן־דָּמִ֛ים אַתָּ֖ה לִֽ⁠י1you are a bridegroom to me by blood

The meaning of this metaphor is unclear. It was probably a known saying in that culture. Alternate translation: “you are related to me by this blood” or “you are my husband because of blood” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

408EXO426ceqkgrammar-connect-logic-resultוַ⁠יִּ֖רֶף1

As a result of Zipporahs action. Consider a conjunction or other form that expresses result as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

409EXO426o4ztwriting-participantsוַ⁠יִּ֖רֶף1

“Yahweh relented” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

410EXO4264l5uwriting-participantsמִמֶּ֑⁠נּוּ1

As in 4:24 this could mean either Moses or the son, but most commentators think it is still Moses. The UST uses “anyone” to preserve ambiguity. Alternative translation: “from Moses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

411EXO426r8hjfigs-quotationsחֲתַ֥ן דָּמִ֖ים1

This is a unique quotation because Zipporah probably does not speak again; rather, the quotation refers back to her statement in 4:25. Your language may handle this sort of quotation in a special way. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

412EXO426abmgfigs-quotemarksחֲתַ֥ן דָּמִ֖ים לַ⁠מּוּלֹֽת1

It is not clear if the quotation includes because of the circumcision or if that is a comment explaining the quotation. Translations are divided in where they end the quotation, but most exclude because of the circumcision and it is best to follow that unless a locally respected translation includes it. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

413EXO427xk6bwriting-neweventוַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר1Yahweh said to Aaron

You may want to add a word that marks the beginning of a new part of the story, as the UST does. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

414EXO427qxpcwriting-participantsאַהֲרֹ֔ן1

Aaron is introduced as a new participant. Some languages may mark this in some way. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

415EXO427221tfigs-quotemarksלֵ֛ךְ לִ⁠קְרַ֥את מֹשֶׁ֖ה הַ⁠מִּדְבָּ֑רָ⁠ה1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

416EXO427wy4nfigs-possessionבְּ⁠הַ֥ר הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֖ים1at the mountain of God

See how you translated this in 3:1, consult this this note: [[rc://en/tn/help/exo/03/01/p27s]] (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

417EXO427tfn2translate-symactionוַ⁠יִּשַּׁק1

This was a traditional way of greeting which showed love. You can make this explicit as the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

418EXO428ad9xשְׁלָח֑⁠וֹ…צִוָּֽ⁠הוּ1

These are a bit awkward to translate in English, so the UST adds more information. Other languages may not have the same difficulty.

419EXO428b429writing-participantsשְׁלָח֑⁠וֹ…צִוָּֽ⁠הוּ1he had sent him to say

The words he refers to Yahweh, and him refers to Moses. Alternative translation: “Yahweh sent Moses…Yahweh commanded Moses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

420EXO429y8o3writing-neweventוַ⁠יֵּ֥לֶךְ1

This begins a new event which you may need to mark in your translation with a transitional word like the USTs “When.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

421EXO430bm2xfigs-metonymyלְ⁠עֵינֵ֥י הָ⁠עָֽם1in the sight of the people

This means he did the signs so they could see them. Alternative translation: “in their sight” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

422EXO430x1v3writing-participantsהָ⁠עָֽם1

Context suggests that people refers to the leaders gathered in 4:29. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

423EXO4318n78writing-participantsהָ⁠עָ֑ם1

Context suggests that people refers to the leaders gathered in 4:29. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

424EXO431q1erפָקַ֨ד…בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל1had observed the Israelites

“saw the Israelites” or “was concerned about the Israelites”

425EXO431g83atranslate-symactionוַֽ⁠יִּקְּד֖וּ וַ⁠יִּֽשְׁתַּחֲוּֽוּ1they bowed their heads

Alternative translations: “they bowed their heads in awe” or “they bowed down low in reverence.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

426EXO5introkea20

Exodus 05 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

A slaves work

The Egyptians were known for making their slaves do a lot of work. The Israelite slaves were forced to make a specific number of bricks every day. In this chapter, they were required not only to make these bricks, but also to gather straw, one of the raw materials, in order to make these bricks.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“Let my people go”

This is a very important statement. Moses does not seek permission to leave, asking Pharaoh to “let go” of the Hebrew people. Instead, he demands that Pharaoh free the Hebrew people.

Titles

The leaders are given different titles in this chapter. The ULT uses “taskmasters” and “foremen.” Many cultures will not have these types of titles. Generic expressions like “Egyptian leaders” and “Hebrew leaders” may be necessary.

427EXO51q0zvwriting-neweventוְ⁠אַחַ֗ר בָּ֚אוּ מֹשֶׁ֣ה וְ⁠אַהֲרֹ֔ן וַ⁠יֹּאמְר֖וּ אֶל־פַּרְעֹ֑ה1

This time phrase, and afterward, marks a transition in the narrative. Alternative translation: “After that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

428EXO51q9kngrammar-connect-time-sequentialוְ⁠אַחַ֗ר בָּ֚אוּ מֹשֶׁ֣ה וְ⁠אַהֲרֹ֔ן וַ⁠יֹּאמְר֖וּ אֶל־פַּרְעֹ֑ה1After these things happened

It is unclear how long Moses and Aaron waited until they went to see Pharoah. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])

429EXO51cudxfigs-goבָּ֚אוּ1

In this instance, depending on how they have to set scenes, some languages may need to use “came in.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

430EXO517l1ywriting-participantsפַּרְעֹ֑ה1

Pharaoh is reintroduced as a participant in the narrative for the first time since chapter two. Some languages may need to mark his reintroduction in a particular way. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

431EXO513l2vfigs-quotemarksכֹּֽה־אָמַ֤ר יְהוָה֙ אֱלֹהֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל שַׁלַּח֙ אֶת־עַמִּ֔⁠י וְ⁠יָחֹ֥גּוּ לִ֖⁠י בַּ⁠מִּדְבָּֽר1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

432EXO51ckmlfigs-quotemarksשַׁלַּח֙ אֶת־עַמִּ֔⁠י וְ⁠יָחֹ֥גּוּ לִ֖⁠י בַּ⁠מִּדְבָּֽר1

This is a second-level direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with second-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation within a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

433EXO51lu3iכֹּֽה־אָמַ֤ר יְהוָה֙1

This quotation form is used to introduce commands from Yahweh. See 4:intro for more information.

434EXO51u2vtוְ⁠יָחֹ֥גּוּ1festival for me

This is a celebration to worship Yahweh. Alternative translation: “so they can worship me with eating and drinking”

435EXO52v4c1grammar-connect-logic-contrastוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר1Why should I…let Israel go?

The result here is exactly as God has said; therefore, a contrastive transition word is reasonable but not required given the immediate human context. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

436EXO52fq6ifigs-quotemarksמִ֤י יְהוָה֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר אֶשְׁמַ֣ע בְּ⁠קֹל֔⁠וֹ לְ⁠שַׁלַּ֖ח אֶת־יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל לֹ֤א יָדַ֨עְתִּי֙ אֶת־יְהוָ֔ה וְ⁠גַ֥ם אֶת־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל לֹ֥א אֲשַׁלֵּֽחַ1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

437EXO52lqwtמִ֤י יְהוָה֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר אֶשְׁמַ֣ע בְּ⁠קֹל֔⁠וֹ לְ⁠שַׁלַּ֖ח אֶת־יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל1

This is not a rhetorical question, though Pharaoh may have spoken with contempt. Pharaoh would have considered himself a go. The Egyptians had several gods, and most people groups were assumed to have their own gods. Therefore, Pharaoh had truly not heard of Yahweh (who has just told his name to Moses).

438EXO52wpfffigs-collectivenounsיִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל…יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל1

Here the nation is spoken of as an individual. Alternative translation: “the nation of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-collectivenouns]])

439EXO52c653figs-metonymyבְּ⁠קֹל֔⁠וֹ1listen to his voice

This represent the words God spoke. Alternate translation: “listen to what he says” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

440EXO526xjpוְ⁠גַ֥ם1

This functions to strengthen Pharaohs statement about his decision. Alternative translation: “and most definitely”

441EXO5308nywriting-participantsוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמְר֔וּ1

It may not make sense in all languages for multiple people to speak. Since Aaron was appointed as Moses spokesman, consider the alternative translation: “Aaron replied” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

442EXO533li7figs-quotemarksאֱלֹהֵ֥י הָ⁠עִבְרִ֖ים נִקְרָ֣א עָלֵ֑י⁠נוּ נֵ֣לֲכָה נָּ֡א דֶּרֶךְ֩ שְׁלֹ֨שֶׁת יָמִ֜ים בַּ⁠מִּדְבָּ֗ר וְ⁠נִזְבְּחָה֙ לַֽ⁠יהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהֵ֔י⁠נוּ פֶּ֨ן־יִפְגָּעֵ֔⁠נוּ בַּ⁠דֶּ֖בֶר א֥וֹ בֶ⁠חָֽרֶב1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

443EXO53y9ipאֱלֹהֵ֥י הָ⁠עִבְרִ֖ים1God of the Hebrews

This term is also used for Yahweh, the Israelites God.

444EXO53kcljfigs-exclusiveעָלֵ֑י⁠נוּ נֵ֣לֲכָה…וְ⁠נִזְבְּחָה֙…יִפְגָּעֵ֔⁠נוּ1

Here, us (or “we” in UST) refers to the Hebrew people (the Israelites). It exclude Pharaoh and his people. Some languages may need to consider whether to use an inclusive or exclusive form. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

445EXO53gfs5figs-metonymyבֶ⁠חָֽרֶב1or with the sword

Here, sword represents war or an attack by enemies. Alternate translation: “cause our enemies to attack us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

446EXO54cb7wfigs-quotemarksלָ֚⁠מָּה מֹשֶׁ֣ה וְ⁠אַהֲרֹ֔ן תַּפְרִ֥יעוּ אֶת־הָ⁠עָ֖ם מִ⁠מַּֽעֲשָׂ֑י⁠ו לְכ֖וּ לְ⁠סִבְלֹתֵי⁠כֶֽם1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

447EXO54kl1ifigs-rquestionלָ֚⁠מָּה מֹשֶׁ֣ה וְ⁠אַהֲרֹ֔ן תַּפְרִ֥יעוּ אֶת־הָ⁠עָ֖ם מִ⁠מַּֽעֲשָׂ֑י⁠ו1why are you taking the people from their work?

Pharaoh uses this question to express his anger towards Moses and Aaron for taking the Israelites away from their work. Alternate translation: “Stop distracting the people from doing their work!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

448EXO54fiw9figs-rquestionלְכ֖וּ לְ⁠סִבְלֹתֵי⁠כֶֽם1

This your could refer to Moses and Aaron, or it could mean “all you Israelite people.” The second meaning is more likely. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a dual or plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

449EXO55nqbefigs-asideוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר פַּרְעֹ֔ה1

It is unusual for the same speaker to be reintroduced like this. Some translations omit the repetition, but there is another option. This statement may be more connected to the next couple of verses, so it might be appropriate to make a minor break before this verse. Pharaoh may have been more commenting to himself, or he only thought this statement silently, and it led to his next actions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-aside]])

450EXO55todiהֵן1

This is a term meant to focus the attention of the listener on what the speaker is about to say.

451EXO55c53kfigs-youdualוְ⁠הִשְׁבַּתֶּ֥ם1

Here, you means Moses and Aaron. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a dual form (if you have one) or plural (if not) form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

452EXO56ar9mאֶת־הַ⁠נֹּגְשִׂ֣ים בָּ⁠עָ֔ם וְ⁠אֶת־שֹׁטְרָ֖י⁠ו1

Pharaoh may have sent a messenger or messengers to the taskmasters and officers or spoken to one or a few representatives of them at his court rather than speaking to them directly. Alternative translation: “Pharaoh gave an order for the taskmasters among the people and officers that said,”

453EXO56zd4mהַ⁠נֹּגְשִׂ֣ים1taskmasters

Taskmasters were Egyptians whose job it was to force the Israelites to do hard work. These are probably the same as the “overseers” of labor gangs from Exodus 1:11, but here the term is harsher. Alternative translation: “oppressors”

454EXO568opuשֹׁטְרָ֖י⁠ו1

Officers were probably Israelite slaves who were in charge of the other Israelites but who answered to the Egyptian taskmasters.

455EXO56dxihלֵ⁠אמֹֽר1

This is a way of introducing a direct quotation in Hebrew; most translations can omit it without harm.

456EXO57k6iofigs-youdualלֹ֣א תֹאסִפ֞וּ⁠ן1

This command was given to multiple people; if your language distinguishes between singular and plural forms when giving commands, make sure this is a plural form. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

457EXO571pw9figs-quotemarksלֹ֣א תֹאסִפ֞וּ⁠ן1

Verses 7-9 are a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate the start here with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of the quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

458EXO57p9nxfigs-idiomכִּ⁠תְמ֣וֹל שִׁלְשֹׁ֑ם1you must no longer give

This is a Hebrew idiom meaning “in the past.” Alternative translation: “as before” or “as previously” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

459EXO58izkffigs-youdualתָּשִׂ֣ימוּ1

If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

460EXO58ro25translate-unknownהַ⁠לְּבֵנִ֜ים1

Bricks are hardened clay blocks for building. See how you translated in [1:14][../01/14.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

461EXO58dlzxfigs-idiomתְּמ֤וֹל שִׁלְשֹׁם֙1

This is a Hebrew idiom meaning “in the past.” See how you translated this in 5:7 Alternative translation: “before” or “previously” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

462EXO58vd10figs-quotemarksנֵלְכָ֖ה נִזְבְּחָ֥ה לֵ⁠אלֹהֵֽי⁠נוּ1

This is a second-level direct quotation. It is a quote of Moses and Aaron. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with second-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation within a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

463EXO595nz5figs-idiomוְ⁠אַל־יִשְׁע֖וּ בְּ⁠דִבְרֵי־שָֽׁקֶר1

Here words are spoken of as if they could be looked upon. Alternative translation: as UST or “and not listen to words that are lies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

464EXO510ozznwriting-neweventוַ⁠יֵּ֨צְא֜וּ1

This begins a new scene, which may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

465EXO510x4biנֹגְשֵׂ֤י1taskmasters

Taskmasters were Egyptians whose job was to force the Israelites to do hard work. See how you translated this in 5:6. See [[rc://en/tn/help/exo/05/06/zd4m]]

466EXO5100nqnכֹּ֚ה אָמַ֣ר פַּרְעֹ֔ה1

This is the same quote form as is used for when Yahweh gives a direct command. See 4:intro for more information.

467EXO5104joefigs-quotationsוַ⁠יֹּאמְר֥וּ אֶל־הָ⁠עָ֖ם לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר כֹּ֚ה אָמַ֣ר פַּרְעֹ֔ה1

It might be helpful in some languages to translate thus says Pharaoh as an indirect quote so that his conveyed command is not a quote within a quote. Alternate translation: “and told the people that Pharaoh says” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

468EXO510mkomfigs-quotesinquotesאֵינֶ֛⁠נִּי1

This is a the beginning of a second-level quotation that continues until the end of verse 11. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening second-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the start of a quotation within a quotation. However, you could also translate this as an indirect quote. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

469EXO5107zfpgrammar-connect-logic-contrastאֵינֶ֛⁠נִּי נֹתֵ֥ן לָ⁠כֶ֖ם תֶּֽבֶן1

The structure of this phrase and the one that opens the next verse create a strong contrast between what I (Pharaoh) and you (you all, the Israelites) will do. Translate this in a way that emphasizes, if possible, the contrast between “I” and “you.” Alternative translation: “It is not I who will give you straw.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

470EXO510si2efigs-metonymyאֵינֶ֛⁠נִּי1

Pharaoh does not physically give the Israelites straw. Rather, he had commanded his servants take straw that belongs to Pharaoh and give it to the Israelites. Now he told his servants to stop providing straw. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

471EXO510gb4dfigs-youdualלָ⁠כֶ֖ם1I will no longer give you

Youis plural and refers to the Israelite people. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

472EXO511ewg6grammar-connect-logic-contrastאַתֶּ֗ם לְכ֨וּ קְח֤וּ לָ⁠כֶם֙ תֶּ֔בֶן מֵ⁠אֲשֶׁ֖ר תִּמְצָ֑אוּ1

The structure of this phrase serves as the opposing side of the contrast Pharaoh sets up in the last phrase. By explicitly using a pronoun with a command, he is emphasizing who will go get straw. If possible, translate this in a way that emphasizes the contrast between “I” and “you.” See [[rc://en/tn/help/exo/05/10/7zfp]] for more info. Alternative translation: “Rather, it is you yourselves who must go get straw from wherever you might find it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

473EXO511xe4ifigs-youdualאַתֶּ֗ם1you can find…your workload

Here, you is plural and refers to the Israelite people. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

474EXO511w918figs-rpronounsאַתֶּ֗ם…לָ⁠כֶם֙1You yourselves must go

The repetition of you emphasizes that the Egyptians will no longer help the slaves. Alternative translation: see UST (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

475EXO511g5vbfigs-doublenegativesכִּ֣י אֵ֥ין נִגְרָ֛ע מֵ⁠עֲבֹדַתְ⁠כֶ֖ם דָּבָֽר1your workload will not be reduced

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “for you must continue to make the same number of bricks as before” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

476EXO511ucrcfigs-quotemarksכִּ֣י אֵ֥ין נִגְרָ֛ע מֵ⁠עֲבֹדַתְ⁠כֶ֖ם דָּבָֽר1

After this phrase (at the end of the verse), the direct quotes end. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with a closing first-level (and second-level if you made both levels direct quotes) quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

477EXO512s9dkfigs-hyperboleבְּ⁠כָל־אֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרָ֑יִם1throughout all the land of Egypt

This is a generalization used to show the extra effort Israel made to meet Pharaohs demands. Alternate translation: “to many places throughout Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

478EXO512q7y7translate-unknownקַ֖שׁ1stubble

Stubble is the part of a plant that is left over after harvest. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

479EXO513th6xוְ⁠הַ⁠נֹּגְשִׂ֖ים1taskmasters

Taskmasters were Egyptians whose job it was to force the Israelites to do hard work. See how you translated this in Exodus 5:6.

480EXO513ikkfwriting-participantsוְ⁠הַ⁠נֹּגְשִׂ֖ים1

The change of subject is emphasized here. If your language has a way of specifically focusing on the actor in a narrative, use it here. See the UST for how that is done in English. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

481EXO5138ye4figs-quotemarksכַּלּ֤וּ מַעֲשֵׂי⁠כֶם֙ דְּבַר־י֣וֹם בְּ⁠יוֹמ֔⁠וֹ כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֖ר בִּ⁠הְי֥וֹת הַ⁠תֶּֽבֶן1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

482EXO513a5jaדְּבַר־י֣וֹם בְּ⁠יוֹמ֔⁠וֹ1

Day by day means “daily.” Alternative translation: “the daily task”

483EXO514h4uoנֹגְשֵׂ֥י1

Taskmasters are Egyptians whose job it was to force the Israelites to do hard work. See how you translated this in Exodus 5:6.

484EXO514unbcfigs-activepassiveוַ⁠יֻּכּ֗וּ שֹֽׁטְרֵי֙ בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל1

The text does not specify who beat the officers. It was probably either the taskmasters or someone the taskmasters ordered to beat the officers. If your language cannot express this with the passive, you can make the taskmasters the subject. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

485EXO514eq22figs-rquestionמַדּ֡וּעַ לֹא֩ כִלִּיתֶ֨ם חָקְ⁠כֶ֤ם לִ⁠לְבֹּן֙ כִּ⁠תְמ֣וֹל שִׁלְשֹׁ֔ם גַּם־תְּמ֖וֹל גַּם־הַ⁠יּֽוֹם1Why have you not produced all the bricks required of you…in the past?

The taskmasters used this question to show they were angry with the lack of bricks. Alternate translation: “You are not producing enough bricks, either yesterday or today, as you did in the past!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

486EXO514767cfigs-quotemarksמַדּ֡וּעַ לֹא֩ כִלִּיתֶ֨ם חָקְ⁠כֶ֤ם לִ⁠לְבֹּן֙ כִּ⁠תְמ֣וֹל שִׁלְשֹׁ֔ם גַּם־תְּמ֖וֹל גַּם־הַ⁠יּֽוֹם1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

487EXO514oh6ofigs-youdualכִלִּיתֶ֨ם חָקְ⁠כֶ֤ם1

Here, you and your are plural. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. However, also see [[rc://en/tn/help/exo/05/14/emq7]]. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

488EXO514emq7figs-synecdocheכִלִּיתֶ֨ם חָקְ⁠כֶ֤ם1cried out

Here, you and your do not simply refer to the officers; they refer to the groups of Israelite workers the officers are in charge of. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

489EXO514liz8figs-idiomכִּ⁠תְמ֣וֹל שִׁלְשֹׁ֔ם1

This is a Hebrew idiom meaning “in the past.” Here it specifically refers to the time before the Egyptians stopped giving the Israelites straw. See how you translated this in 5:7 Alternative translation: “before” or “previously” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

490EXO514zklgגַּם־תְּמ֖וֹל גַּם־הַ⁠יּֽוֹם1

This time expression refers to more recent days, ones since the Egyptians stopped providing the straw to the Israelites.

491EXO515bk9hwriting-neweventוַ⁠יָּבֹ֗אוּ1

This begins a new scene, which may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. The officers have gone to where Pharaoh is. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

492EXO515thljfigs-goוַ⁠יָּבֹ֗אוּ1

You will need to decide if go or come is the better translation in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

493EXO515en1tfigs-quotemarksלָ֧⁠מָּה 1

This begins a direct quote that continues to the end of the next verse. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

494EXO515m2nzfigs-123personלַ⁠עֲבָדֶֽי⁠ךָ1

Here, the Israelite officers use the term your servants to refer to themselves in the third person as a way of showing humility. It is also possible that they mean to include all the Israelites. Either option is valid if your language must state who is meant by “your servants.” Alternate translation: “to us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

495EXO516yeqlfigs-activepassiveתֶּ֗בֶן אֵ֤ין נִתָּן֙ לַ⁠עֲבָדֶ֔י⁠ךָ1

The text does not specify who is not giving them straw. From context, the taskmasters and, by implication, Pharaoh himself are the ones not doing this. If your language cannot express this with the passive, you can make the taskmasters or Pharaoh the subject. Alternative translation: “You are not giving your servants any straw.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

496EXO516qp5jfigs-123personלַ⁠עֲבָדֶ֔י⁠ךָ…עֲבָדֶ֛י⁠ךָ1

Here, the Israelite officers use the term your servants to refer to themselves in the third person as a way of showing humility. It is also possible that they mean to include all the Israelites. Either option is valid if your language must state who is meant by “your servants.” Alternate translation: “to us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

497EXO516hsa6writing-participantsאֹמְרִ֥ים1they are still telling us, Make bricks!

They refers to the Egyptian taskmasters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

498EXO5163xl3figs-quotemarksוּ⁠לְבֵנִ֛ים…עֲשׂ֑וּ1

Make bricks is a second-level direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with second-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation within a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

499EXO516m0goוְ⁠הִנֵּ֧ה1

This is used to draw attention to surprising information that follows.

500EXO516xrlyfigs-activepassiveעֲבָדֶ֛י⁠ךָ מֻכִּ֖ים1

The text does not specify who beat the officers. It was probably either the taskmasters or someone the taskmasters ordered to beat the officers. If your language cannot express this with the passive, you can make the taskmasters the subject. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

501EXO516ff2kfigs-euphemismוְ⁠חָטָ֥את עַמֶּֽ⁠ךָ1

The Israelites are indirectly accusing Pharaoh of doing wrong. To translate this, consider polite or indirect ways of making accusations in your culture. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

502EXO516l7snוְ⁠חָטָ֥את1

“but it is the wrong-doing of”

503EXO5172vsofigs-youdualאַתֶּ֖ם…אַתֶּ֣ם1

These uses of you are plural. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

504EXO5175t4mfigs-exclamationsנִרְפִּ֥ים אַתֶּ֖ם נִרְפִּ֑ים1

Pharaoh repeats himself for emphasis. In your translation, make sure the idea of laziness or idleness is repeated or strengthened in a way that is natural. Alternative translation: “You are extremely lazy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]])

505EXO517a8o2figs-quotemarksנֵלְכָ֖ה נִזְבְּחָ֥ה לַֽ⁠יהוָֽה1

Here the king is quoting another persons speech. This is a second-level quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with second-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation within a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

506EXO51868axfigs-activepassiveוְ⁠תֶ֖בֶן לֹא־יִנָּתֵ֣ן לָ⁠כֶ֑ם1

You can translate this in active voice if needed. The subject could be “I” (as in Pharaoh) or “we” (as in the Egyptians or Pharaoh and his taskmasters) or “my people.” See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

507EXO518z6wtfigs-youdualלָ⁠כֶ֑ם…תִּתֵּֽנּוּ1

This means all the Israelites or the officers as representatives of all the Israelites. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

508EXO519x6ppgrammar-connect-logic-resultוַ⁠יִּרְא֞וּ שֹֽׁטְרֵ֧י בְנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֛ל אֹתָ֖⁠ם בְּ⁠רָ֣ע לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר לֹא־תִגְרְע֥וּ מִ⁠לִּבְנֵי⁠כֶ֖ם דְּבַר־י֥וֹם בְּ⁠יוֹמֽ⁠וֹ1

You may need to reorder the events in this verse in your language to put the reason before the result. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

509EXO519i3otfigs-quotemarksלֹא־תִגְרְע֥וּ מִ⁠לִּבְנֵי⁠כֶ֖ם דְּבַר־י֥וֹם בְּ⁠יוֹמֽ⁠וֹ1

This is a direct quotation of what Pharaoh said. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation of another persons speech. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

510EXO519l9d2figs-rpronounsאֹתָ֖⁠ם1when they were told

Here the officers are both the subject and object, because they are thinking about their own situation. Different languages have different methods of marking this. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

511EXO519603uוַ⁠יִּרְא֞וּ…אֹתָ֖⁠ם בְּ⁠רָ֣ע לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר1

“knew that they were in trouble, because the king said” or “perceived themselves in danger, because the king said”

512EXO520ve3zwriting-neweventוַֽ⁠יִּפְגְּעוּ֙1palace

A new scene begins here, which may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

513EXO52060cjwriting-participantsוַֽ⁠יִּפְגְּעוּ֙…לִ⁠קְרָאתָ֑⁠ם בְּ⁠צֵאתָ֖⁠ם1

Here, they and them refer to the officers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

514EXO521jsbvfigs-quotemarksיֵ֧רֶא יְהוָ֛ה עֲלֵי⁠כֶ֖ם וְ⁠יִשְׁפֹּ֑ט אֲשֶׁ֧ר הִבְאַשְׁתֶּ֣ם אֶת־רֵיחֵ֗⁠נוּ בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֤י פַרְעֹה֙ וּ⁠בְ⁠עֵינֵ֣י עֲבָדָ֔י⁠ו לָֽ⁠תֶת־חֶ֥רֶב בְּ⁠יָדָ֖⁠ם לְ⁠הָרְגֵֽ⁠נוּ1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

515EXO521kv0vיֵ֧רֶא יְהוָ֛ה עֲלֵי⁠כֶ֖ם וְ⁠יִשְׁפֹּ֑ט1

They used this form to curse Moses and Aaron.

516EXO5214loufigs-youdualעֲלֵי⁠כֶ֖ם וְ⁠יִשְׁפֹּ֑ט1

You refers to Moses and Aaron. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a dual or plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

517EXO521j3zpfigs-metaphorהִבְאַשְׁתֶּ֣ם אֶת־רֵיחֵ֗⁠נוּ בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֤י פַרְעֹה֙ וּ⁠בְ⁠עֵינֵ֣י עֲבָדָ֔י⁠ו1you have made us offensive

The Egyptians responded to the Israelites the same way they would respond to a foul odor. Alternate translation: “you have caused Pharaoh and his servants to hate us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

518EXO521d592figs-metonymyחֶ֥רֶב בְּ⁠יָדָ֖⁠ם1have put a sword in their hand to kill us

Here, a sword into their hand is a metonym for “a reason in their mind.” The Israelites are afraid that the Egyptians will feel that they are doing the right thing if they kill the Israelites, because Moses and Aaron are making demands to the king and because the Egyptians view the Israelites as lazy and dangerous. Alternate translation: “them a reason to think they would be right” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

519EXO522pm0lfigs-quotemarksוַ⁠יֹּאמַ֑ר 1

After this phrase, a direct quote begins that continues to the end of the chapter. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

520EXO522g4d5figs-rquestionלָ֥⁠מָּה זֶּ֖ה שְׁלַחְתָּֽ⁠נִי1Lord, why have you caused trouble for this people?

This question shows how disappointed Moses was that the Egyptians were treating the Israelites even more harshly now. He is expressing that he thinks God has caused the opposite of what he promised to happen. Alternate translation: “You sent me to rescue them.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

521EXO523v2k2figs-metonymyבִּ⁠שְׁמֶ֔⁠ךָ 1to speak to him in your name

Here, in your name indicates that Moses delivers Yahwehs message. Alternate translation: “for you” or “your message for him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

522EXO523fzirfigs-idiomוְ⁠הַצֵּ֥ל לֹא־הִצַּ֖לְתָּ1

In Hebrew, rescued is repeated for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

523EXO523ce6sfigs-idiomעַמֶּֽ⁠ךָ1

After this phrase, the direct quote of Moses that began in the previous verse ends. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with a closing first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

524EXO6introwe5k0

Exodus 06 General Notes

Possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Repetition of events:

Most of the content of this chapter is very similar to the events and dialogue in chapters 3-4. For consistency, translators should consult the decisions they made there while keeping in mind that this narrative is not exactly the same. Also, verses 10-12 and verses 28-30 are very similar to each other. These events are probably a recommissioning of Moses. After his first encounter with Pharaoh went very poorly and the Israelites seem to reject God, reminds Moses of Gods promises and power.

Referring to God

A name for God (Yahweh) and a title for God (El Shaddai) are mentioned in this chapter (6:2-6:3). The precise meaning of El Shaddai is not known, but most scholars think it means something like “almighty.” Translators who have worked on Genesis may find confusing the statement that Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob did not know Yahweh as the name of God.

Other possible translation difficulties:

With little explanation, a large portion of the chapter is devoted to the genealogy of Moses and Aaron. Some of the people in the genealogy lived much longer than is normal for humans today. If translators are not familiar with the lengths of peoples lives in the early days of the world (as recorded in Genesis, especially chapter 5), this may cause confusion.

Study concepts in this chapter

Promised Land

According to the covenant Yahweh made with Abraham, Egypt is not the home of the Hebrew people. Their home is the Promised Land in Canaan. The people are to return home to their land. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/promisedland]])

“Let my people go”

This is a very important statement. Moses is not asking Pharaoh to “let go” of the Hebrew people. Instead, he is demanding that Pharaoh free the Hebrew people.

God and his people

In verse 7, note mention of a very important biblical theme of God being “your God” and the special relationship that his people have with him.

525EXO61ip5ifigs-quotemarksעַתָּ֣ה תִרְאֶ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר אֶֽעֱשֶׂ֖ה לְ⁠פַרְעֹ֑ה כִּ֣י בְ⁠יָ֤ד חֲזָקָה֙ יְשַׁלְּחֵ֔⁠ם וּ⁠בְ⁠יָ֣ד חֲזָקָ֔ה יְגָרְשֵׁ֖⁠ם מֵ⁠אַרְצֽ⁠וֹ1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

526EXO61lu95grammar-connect-time-sequentialעַתָּ֣ה1

This refers to future events starting very soon. Alternative translation: “Starting soon” or “Very soon” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])

527EXO61ece6figs-metonymyבְ⁠יָ֤ד חֲזָקָה֙…וּ⁠בְ⁠יָ֣ד חֲזָקָ֔ה1my strong hand

Hand is a metonym for power. Alternate translation: “by a strong power … and by a strong power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

528EXO617wm5figs-metonymyבְ⁠יָ֤ד חֲזָקָה֙…וּ⁠בְ⁠יָ֣ד חֲזָקָ֔ה1

It is not clear in the text whose hand is referred to here. The options are: (1) Both refer to Gods hand (forcing Pharaohs actions), (2) Both refer to Pharaohs hand (forcing the Israelites out), (3) They dont refer to the same persons hand; the first refers to Gods and the second to Pharaohs. The UST has followed (1) which is the most common interpretation. Alternate translation: (1) “by my strong hand … and by my strong hand” or (2) “by his strong hand … and by his strong hand” or (3) “by my strong hand … and by his strong hand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

529EXO614m4gfigs-parallelismכִּ֣י בְ⁠יָ֤ד חֲזָקָה֙ יְשַׁלְּחֵ֔⁠ם וּ⁠בְ⁠יָ֣ד חֲזָקָ֔ה יְגָרְשֵׁ֖⁠ם מֵ⁠אַרְצֽ⁠וֹ1

These two phrases mean similar things. God says the same thing twice, in similar ways, for emphasis. You do not need to repeat both phrases in your translation if that might be confusing for your readers. Instead, if it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: “I will force him to let my people leave the land” However, there is a slight difference in meaning, and you could also choose to bring that out in your translation. The second phrase intensifies the first by portraying Pharaoh as not merely letting the Israelites go, but as forcing them to leave the land. Alternate translation: “I will force him to let them go, in fact, I will force him to force them to leave his land” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

530EXO61sdonמֵ⁠אַרְצֽ⁠וֹ1

“from Egypt”

531EXO625m1awriting-neweventוַ⁠יְדַבֵּ֥ר אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֑ה וַ⁠יֹּ֥אמֶר אֵלָ֖י⁠ו 1

There is a transition here. Before this verse, Yahweh was answering Moses question more directly. At the beginning of this verse, Yahweh is reintroduced as “God” because he begins to make a clarifying statement about himself and his relationship with the Israelites and their ancestors as well as his plans for the Israelites. Much of this section repeats what Yahweh has already told Moses. You may want to consider a section break before this verse. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

532EXO62kctyfigs-quotemarksוַ⁠יְדַבֵּ֥ר אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֑ה וַ⁠יֹּ֥אמֶר אֵלָ֖י⁠ו 1

After this phrase a direct quote begins that continues until the end of verse 8. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

533EXO63l81ytranslate-transliterateבְּ⁠אֵ֣ל שַׁדָּ֑י1I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob

This is a title for God that many scholars think means “almighty.” You will need to decide if you will transliterate the term into your language or translate the meaning. Either approach has broad support. Alternative translation: “as the strongest God of all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate]])

534EXO63m27pfigs-activepassiveוּ⁠שְׁמִ֣⁠י יְהוָ֔ה לֹ֥א נוֹדַ֖עְתִּי לָ⁠הֶֽם1I was not known to them

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “but they did not know me by my name Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

535EXO63e36zוּ⁠שְׁמִ֣⁠י יְהוָ֔ה לֹ֥א נוֹדַ֖עְתִּי לָ⁠הֶֽם1

This statement is very difficult to understand as Gods name, Yahweh, is used throughout Genesis, including by Abraham and others. There are many theories about what it means; the view followed by the UST is that now God is revealing to the Israelites a fuller meaning of his divine name than what Abraham and others knew. Alternate translation: “but my name Yahweh was not understood by them”

536EXO64zxvcfigs-quotationsלָ⁠תֵ֥ת לָ⁠הֶ֖ם אֶת־אֶ֣רֶץ כְּנָ֑עַן1

This is the content of the covenant promise from God to his people. Some languages may need to make this part a direct quotation. Alternate translation: “ I said, I will give you the land of Canaan ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

537EXO64gkkcfigs-parallelismאֶ֥רֶץ מְגֻרֵי⁠הֶ֖ם אֲשֶׁר־גָּ֥רוּ בָֽ⁠הּ1

These two phrases mean similar things. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “the land they lived in as temporary residents”; otherwise, “the land that was not their home but where they lived as foreigners” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

538EXO65l3ycנַאֲקַת֙1groaning

This means making sad sounds because of pain and suffering.

539EXO650l2pוָ⁠אֶזְכֹּ֖ר אֶת־בְּרִיתִֽ⁠י1

I have remembered my covenant means God is going to take action. Alternative translation: “I will keep my promise”

540EXO66rgh0grammar-connect-logic-resultלָ⁠כֵ֞ן1

God is now telling Moses to deliver a message to the Israelites of what God is going to do because of everything that he said in verses 2-5. The reason-result relationship is strongly marked here, so translations should make sure to use a connector that marks verse 6-8 as a result of verses 2-5. Alternate translation: “Because of this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

541EXO66yv14לָ⁠כֵ֞ן אֱמֹ֥ר לִ⁠בְנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֘ל1say to the Israelites

This is a command from Yahweh to Moses. Alternate translation: “So Yahweh told Moses to say to the Israelites”

542EXO66yg2dfigs-quotemarksאֲנִ֣י1

This begins a second-level quotation that continues to the end of Yahwehs speech at the close of verse 8. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with second-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation within a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

543EXO66we3zfigs-youdualאֶתְ⁠כֶ֗ם…אֶתְ⁠כֶ֖ם…אֶתְ⁠כֶם֙1

You refers to the Israelites. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

544EXO66oqnwfigs-synecdocheמִ⁠תַּ֨חַת֙ סִבְלֹ֣ת מִצְרַ֔יִם1

This refers to all the hard work the Egyptians made the Israelites do. Alternate translation: “from the hard work the Egyptians force you to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

545EXO66xyn4figs-metaphorבִּ⁠זְר֣וֹעַ נְטוּיָ֔ה1

Arm here is a figurative way of referring to Gods power, influence, and capacity for action. Outstretched means that he is using that power. Alternate translation: “by my great strength” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

546EXO66efx1וּ⁠בִ⁠שְׁפָטִ֖ים1

Here, the term judgments refers to the plagues that God is about to send to harm Egypt and the Egyptians. Each plague is a response to Pharaohs stubbornness. Alternate translation: “and by [greatly] harming the Egyptians”

547EXO67o3lbfigs-youdualאֶתְ⁠כֶ֥ם…לָ⁠כֶ֖ם…וִֽ⁠ידַעְתֶּ֗ם…אֱלֹ֣הֵי⁠כֶ֔ם…אֶתְ⁠כֶ֔ם1

Here every occurrence of you refers to the Israelites. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

548EXO6714evfigs-synecdocheמִ⁠תַּ֖חַת סִבְל֥וֹת מִצְרָֽיִם1

This refers to all the hard work the Egyptians forced upon the Israelites. See what you did in the previous verse at [[rc://en/tn/help/exo/06/07/oqnw]]. Alternate translation: “from the hard work the Egyptians force you to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

549EXO68h9hofigs-youdualאֶתְ⁠כֶם֙…לָ⁠כֶ֛ם1

Here, every occurrence of you refers to the Israelites. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

550EXO68g9rutranslate-symactionנָשָׂ֨אתִי֙ אֶת־יָדִ֔⁠י1I swore

This is an action that signifies making an oath. Raising the hand may not have the same meaning in your culture so you may need to use a different symbolic oath-taking action in your translation, or simply translate the meaning. Alternate translation: “I promised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

551EXO68i3vjמוֹרָשָׁ֖ה1

This means the Israelites will own the land. Alternate translation: “as your own land”

552EXO68ipnmfigs-quotemarksאֲנִ֥י יְהוָֽה1

After this phrase, the direct quote of Yahweh ends. Both the first-level and second-level quotes end. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with a closing first-level and second-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of a quotation and a quotation within a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

553EXO69aaljgrammar-connect-logic-resultוְ⁠לֹ֤א שָֽׁמְעוּ֙ אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֔ה מִ⁠קֹּ֣צֶר ר֔וּחַ וּ⁠מֵ⁠עֲבֹדָ֖ה קָשָֽׁה1

In some languages it will be necessary to put the reason for the people not listening before the result. Alternate translation: “but because of shortness of spirit and because of hard service, they did not listen to Moses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

554EXO690jc7מִ⁠קֹּ֣צֶר ר֔וּחַ1

Here, the peoples spirit is spoken of as something that could be measured. By calling it “short,” the author is saying they did not have very much motivation or hope. Alternate translation: “because they had no hope”

555EXO610tpw4לֵּ⁠אמֹֽר1

This is used to mark the beginning of a direct quotation. It can be omitted if it is unnatural.

556EXO611pi7afigs-quotemarksבֹּ֣א דַבֵּ֔ר אֶל־פַּרְעֹ֖ה מֶ֣לֶךְ מִצְרָ֑יִם וִֽ⁠ישַׁלַּ֥ח אֶת־בְּנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל מֵ⁠אַרְצֽ⁠וֹ1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

557EXO611fxf2figs-quotationsוִֽ⁠ישַׁלַּ֥ח אֶת־בְּנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל מֵ⁠אַרְצֽ⁠וֹ1

This is an indirect quote; in some languages you will have to make it a direct quote. Be careful to change the third-person pronouns to second-person pronouns if you do this. Alternate translation: “saying, You must let the sons of Israel go from your land” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

558EXO612rsagfigs-quotemarksהֵ֤ן בְּנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ לֹֽא־שָׁמְע֣וּ אֵלַ֔⁠י וְ⁠אֵיךְ֙ יִשְׁמָעֵ֣⁠נִי פַרְעֹ֔ה וַ⁠אֲנִ֖י עֲרַ֥ל שְׂפָתָֽיִם1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

559EXO612h7o0figs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֥י יְהוָ֖ה1

Here, face figuratively represents the presence of a person. There may also be a hint of impudence in Moses attitude that is conveyed by saying he before the face of Yahweh Alternate translation: “in the presence of Yahweh” or “boldly to Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

560EXO612iiuiהֵ֤ן1

Behold is a term meant to focus the attention of the listener on what the speaker is about to say. If there is not a good way to translate this term in your language, this term can be omitted from the translation, or you can use an alternate translation like “as you know.”

561EXO612k7hlfigs-rquestionהֵ֤ן בְּנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ לֹֽא־שָׁמְע֣וּ אֵלַ֔⁠י וְ⁠אֵיךְ֙ יִשְׁמָעֵ֣⁠נִי פַרְעֹ֔ה1If the Israelites have not listened to me, why will Pharaoh listen to me, since I am not good at speaking?

Moses asked this question hoping God would change His mind about using Moses. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “Since the Israelites did not listen to me, neither will Pharaoh!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

562EXO6124iulfigs-rquestionהֵ֤ן בְּנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ לֹֽא־שָׁמְע֣וּ אֵלַ֔⁠י וְ⁠אֵיךְ֙ יִשְׁמָעֵ֣⁠נִי פַרְעֹ֔ה1

Moses is presenting a reasoned argument: since this, then probably that. Use a natural way of expressing such arguments in your language. Alternate translation: “Since the sons of Israel have not listened to me, why would you think Pharaoh would listen to me?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

563EXO612k3brfigs-metaphorוַ⁠אֲנִ֖י עֲרַ֥ל שְׂפָתָֽיִם1

This is a metaphor that means that Moses was not a good speaker. It is somewhat crude; your translation of this phrase could convey that Moses spoke impolitely. Alternate translation: “And I do not speak well” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

564EXO6139o6gוַ⁠יְצַוֵּ⁠ם֙ אֶל־בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל וְ⁠אֶל־פַּרְעֹ֖ה1

This phrase is somewhat difficult to translate. Here, command could also be translated as “charge” or “commission.” Another difficulty is knowing to whom the command is directed: is it to Moses and Aaron or are they to give the command to Pharaoh and the Israelites, thus to could be translated as “for” or “regarding” Alternate translations: “and he charged them regarding the sons of Israel and regarding Pharaoh” or “and he gave them a command for the sons of Israel and for Pharaoh” or “and he gave them a commission to the sons of Israel and to Pharaoh”

565EXO614hh3zwriting-backgroundאֵ֖לֶּה1

Verses 14-27 are background information. If your language marks background information with particular discourse features, use them here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

566EXO614h195figs-metonymyרָאשֵׁ֣י1the heads of their fathers houses

Here, “heads” refers to the original ancestors of the clan. Alternate translation: “the ancestors of ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

567EXO614wv89translate-namesרְאוּבֵ֜ן… יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל… חֲנ֤וֹךְ וּ⁠פַלּוּא֙ חֶצְר֣וֹן וְ⁠כַרְמִ֔י… רְאוּבֵֽן1Hanok, Pallu, Hezron, and Karmi

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

568EXO615c1nitranslate-namesשִׁמְע֗וֹן יְמוּאֵ֨ל וְ⁠יָמִ֤ין וְ⁠אֹ֨הַד֙ וְ⁠יָכִ֣ין וְ⁠צֹ֔חַר וְ⁠שָׁא֖וּל…שִׁמְעֽוֹן1Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jakin, Zohar, and Shaul

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

569EXO616k64htranslate-namesלֵוִי֙…גֵּרְשׁ֕וֹן וּ⁠קְהָ֖ת וּ⁠מְרָרִ֑י…לֵוִ֔י1Gershon…Merari

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

570EXO616m36ftranslate-numbersשֶׁ֧בַע וּ⁠שְׁלֹשִׁ֛ים וּ⁠מְאַ֖ת1137 years old

“one hundred thirty-seven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

571EXO617alm8translate-namesגֵרְשׁ֛וֹן לִבְנִ֥י וְ⁠שִׁמְעִ֖י1Amram…Uzziel

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

572EXO618gzm3translate-namesקְהָ֔ת עַמְרָ֣ם וְ⁠יִצְהָ֔ר וְ⁠חֶבְר֖וֹן וְ⁠עֻזִּיאֵ֑ל…קְהָ֔ת1

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

573EXO618qu41translate-numbersשָׁלֹ֧שׁ וּ⁠שְׁלֹשִׁ֛ים וּ⁠מְאַ֖ת1133 years old

“one hundred thirty-three” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

574EXO619p5sztranslate-namesמְרָרִ֖י מַחְלִ֣י וּ⁠מוּשִׁ֑י1

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

575EXO620ni1ltranslate-namesעַמְרָ֜ם…יוֹכֶ֤בֶד…אַהֲרֹ֖ן…מֹשֶׁ֑ה…עַמְרָ֔ם1

These are the names of people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

576EXO620mh02figs-kinshipדֹּֽדָת⁠וֹ֙1

This word specifically means fathers sister. Some languages will have a term that is specific in this way, and translators should use it. Alternate translation: see UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-kinship]])

577EXO620ti6qtranslate-numbersשֶׁ֧בַע וּ⁠שְׁלֹשִׁ֛ים וּ⁠מְאַ֖ת1137 years

“one hundred thirty-seven years” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

578EXO621f3yrtranslate-namesיִצְהָ֑ר קֹ֥רַח וָ⁠נֶ֖פֶג וְ⁠זִכְרִֽי׃1Izhar…Korah…Zichri

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

579EXO622n7cltranslate-namesעֻזִּיאֵ֑ל מִֽישָׁאֵ֥ל וְ⁠אֶלְצָפָ֖ן וְ⁠סִתְרִֽי1Uzziel…Mishael…Sithri

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

580EXO623n1xhtranslate-namesאַהֲרֹ֜ן…אֱלִישֶׁ֧בַע…עַמִּינָדָ֛ב…נַחְשׁ֖וֹן…נָדָב֙…אֲבִיה֔וּא…אֶלְעָזָ֖ר…אִֽיתָמָֽר1Nadab…Ithamar

These are the names of people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

581EXO6247oaetranslate-namesקֹ֔רַח אַסִּ֥יר וְ⁠אֶלְקָנָ֖ה וַ⁠אֲבִיאָסָ֑ף1

These are the names of people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

582EXO624i6o7translate-namesהַ⁠קָּרְחִֽי1

This was the name of the clan of people descended from Korah. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

583EXO625zvg2translate-namesוְ⁠אֶלְעָזָ֨ר…אַהֲרֹ֜ן…פּֽוּטִיאֵל֙…פִּֽינְחָ֑ס1Phinehas

These are the names of people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

584EXO625fck8figs-metonymyרָאשֵׁ֛י1These were the heads of the fathers houses

The word “heads” here represents family leaders. Alternate translation: “These were the leaders of the families” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

585EXO626dqm8figs-quotemarks⁠הֶ֔ם הוֹצִ֜יאוּ אֶת־בְּנֵ֧י יִשְׂרָאֵ֛ל מֵ⁠אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרַ֖יִם עַל־צִבְאֹתָֽ⁠ם1

This is a direct quotation of what Yahweh said earlier. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation of a previous remark. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

586EXO626ft6ytranslate-unknownעַל־צִבְאֹתָֽ⁠ם1by their groups of fighting men

The term hosts refers to a large group of people often organized into groups for war. Alternate translation: “by their groups” or “by their divisions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

587EXO627o7xpgrammar-connect-logic-goalלְ⁠הוֹצִ֥יא1

This expresses their goal when they spoke to Pharaoh. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])

588EXO628xsslwriting-neweventוַ⁠יְהִ֗י בְּ⁠י֨וֹם1

This marks a transition from the record of the genealogy back to the narrative. Consider placing a section break at the start of this verse. Alternate translation: “One day” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

589EXO6297s2nfigs-quotemarksלֵּ⁠אמֹ֖ר1

Here, saying is used to mark the beginning of a direct quotation. It can be omitted if unnatural. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

590EXO629vogmfigs-quotemarksאֲנִ֣י יְהוָ֑ה דַּבֵּ֗ר אֶל־פַּרְעֹה֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ מִצְרַ֔יִם אֵ֛ת כָּל־אֲשֶׁ֥ר אֲנִ֖י דֹּבֵ֥ר אֵלֶֽי⁠ךָ1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

591EXO630zyqsfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה1

Here, face figuratively represents the presence of a person. There may also be a hint of impudence in Moses attitude that is conveyed by saying he spoke before the face of Yahweh. See how you translated this in 6:12 Alternate translation: “in the presence of Yahweh” or “boldly to Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

592EXO630nf3wfigs-rquestionהֵ֤ן אֲנִי֙ עֲרַ֣ל שְׂפָתַ֔יִם וְ⁠אֵ֕יךְ יִשְׁמַ֥ע אֵלַ֖⁠י פַּרְעֹֽה1I am not good…why will Pharaoh listen to me?

Moses asks this question hoping to change Gods mind about sending him. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “Behold, I am not a good speaker. Pharaoh will certainly not listen to me!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

593EXO630qvxffigs-quotemarksהֵ֤ן אֲנִי֙ עֲרַ֣ל שְׂפָתַ֔יִם וְ⁠אֵ֕יךְ יִשְׁמַ֥ע אֵלַ֖⁠י פַּרְעֹֽה1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

594EXO630y4g2הֵ֤ן1

Behold is a term meant to focus the attention of the listener on what the speaker is about to say. If there is not a good way to translate this term in your language, this term can be omitted from the translation, or you can use an alternate translation like “as you know.”

595EXO63018l8figs-metaphorאֲנִי֙ עֲרַ֣ל שְׂפָתַ֔יִם1

This is a metaphor that means that Moses thought he was not a good speaker. It is somewhat crude, and your translation of this phrase could convey that Moses spoke impolitely. See how you translated this in 6:12 Alternate translation: “And I always fail to speak well” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

596EXO7intror9we0

Exodus 07 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Miracles

When Yahweh had Moses perform miracles, Pharaohs men were able to copy these miracles. It is unknown how they were able to do this, but since it was not from Yahweh, they were probably done under some evil power. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/miracle]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/evil]])

Pharaohs hard heart

Pharaohs heart is often described as hard, strong, or heavy in this chapter. This means that his heart was not open or willing to understand Yahwehs instructions.

“Let my people go”

This is a very important statement. Moses is not asking Pharaoh to “let go” of the Hebrew people. Instead, he is demanding that Pharaoh free the Hebrew people.

Possible translation difficulties in this chapter include:

  • Moses as God to Pharaoh
  • A number of difficult terms: prophet, signs, wonders, miracles, sorcerers, magicians, magic, judgments, canals, reservoirs
  • The use of “heart” to refer to the seat of will and emotion
  • Up to third-level quotations
597EXO714vakfigs-quotemarksמֹשֶׁ֔ה 1

After this phrase, a direct quote begins that continues to the end of verse 5. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

598EXO71gy1tרְאֵ֛ה1

This is used to draw attention to surprising information that follows. Alternative translation: “Listen carefully”

599EXO71dn1sfigs-metaphorנְתַתִּ֥י⁠ךָ אֱלֹהִ֖ים לְ⁠פַרְעֹ֑ה1I have made you like a god

This means Moses would represent the same authority to Pharaoh as God did to Moses. See how you translated the very similar phrase in Exodus 4:16, see this note. Alternate translation: “I will cause Pharaoh to consider you as a god” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

600EXO71z163figs-metaphorוְ⁠אַהֲרֹ֥ן אָחִ֖י⁠ךָ יִהְיֶ֥ה נְבִיאֶֽ⁠ךָ1

This phrase compares Aaron to a prophet, because he will be the one actually to proclaim to Pharaoh what Moses tells him. See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 4:16, see this note. Alternate translation: “and Aaron your brother will act like your prophet” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

601EXO72l44vfigs-kinshipאָחִ֨י⁠ךָ֙1

Aaron is older than Moses. Some languages will use a different term for the sibling relationship based on gender and age order. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-kinship]])

602EXO72hdwofigs-quotationsוְ⁠שִׁלַּ֥ח אֶת־בְּנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל מֵ⁠אַרְצֽ⁠וֹ1

Some languages may need to make this a direct quote. If so, be sure to mark it as a second-level quotation, subordinate to Yahwehs main speech. Alternative translation: “saying, You must let the sons of Israel go from your land” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

603EXO72204oמֵ⁠אַרְצֽ⁠וֹ1

“Egypt”

604EXO73adsqfigs-metaphorאַקְשֶׁ֖ה אֶת־לֵ֣ב פַּרְעֹ֑ה1

This means God will make him stubborn. His stubborn attitude is spoken of as if his heart were hard. If the heart is not the body part your culture uses to refer to a persons will, consider using whichever organ your culture would use for this image. See how you translated this in Exodus 4:21, but note the slightly different metaphor there: the heart being strong vs. hard. Alternate translation: “will cause Pharaoh to be stubborn” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

605EXO73vtt1figs-doubletאֶת־אֹתֹתַ֛⁠י וְ⁠אֶת־מוֹפְתַ֖⁠י1many signs…many wonders

The words signs and wonders mean basically the same thing. God uses them to emphasize the greatness of what he will do in Egypt. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

606EXO74ar0lfigs-youdualאֲלֵ⁠כֶם֙1

Here, you means Moses and Aaron. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a dual form (if you have one) or plural form (if not) here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

607EXO74e2kvfigs-metonymyיָדִ֖⁠י1put my hand on

The words my hand represent Gods great power. Alternate translation: “my power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

608EXO740r0rfigs-metonymyבְּ⁠מִצְרָ֑יִם1

On Egypt refers to the land and everything in it, including people, animals, and plants. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

609EXO74niluאֶת־צִבְאֹתַ֜⁠י אֶת־עַמִּ֤⁠י בְנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵל֙1

These phrases refer to the Israelites in three different ways; they do not refer to three different groups of people. Armies is the same word translated “hosts” in Exodus 6:26. Alternate translation: “the armies of my Israelite people”

610EXO75cg3ngrammar-connect-logic-resultוְ⁠יָדְע֤וּ מִצְרַ֨יִם֙ כִּֽי־אֲנִ֣י יְהוָ֔ה1

This is the result of God rescuing the Israelites. In some languages the result will have to be placed after the cause, as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

611EXO75npd6figs-metonymyבִּ⁠נְטֹתִ֥⁠י אֶת־יָדִ֖⁠י עַל1reach out with my hand on

This phrase represents Gods great power. Alternate translation: “when I show my powerful acts against” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

612EXO75dgucgrammar-connect-logic-goalוְ⁠הוֹצֵאתִ֥י אֶת־בְּנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל מִ⁠תּוֹכָֽ⁠ם1

The goal of Gods powerful acts was to rescue the Israelites. Alternate translation: “so that I bring the sons of Israel out from their midst” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])

613EXO758576figs-quotemarksמִ⁠תּוֹכָֽ⁠ם1

At the end of this verse, the direct quote that began in verse 1 ends. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with a closing first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of a quotation. Note that the UST is reordered. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

614EXO76iii5figs-parallelismוַ⁠יַּ֥עַשׂ…עָשֽׂוּ1

This repetition emphasizes the statement. Some languages can use repetition for emphasis; others will need to use another way of expressing emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

615EXO77liirwriting-backgroundוּ⁠מֹשֶׁה֙ בֶּן־שְׁמֹנִ֣ים שָׁנָ֔ה וְ⁠אַֽהֲרֹ֔ן בֶּן־שָׁלֹ֥שׁ וּ⁠שְׁמֹנִ֖ים שָׁנָ֑ה בְּ⁠דַבְּרָ֖⁠ם אֶל־פַּרְעֹֽה1

This verse contains background information. If your language marks background information with particular discourse features, use them here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

616EXO77g7i5translate-numbersשְׁמֹנִ֣ים…שָׁלֹ֥שׁ וּ⁠שְׁמֹנִ֖ים1Aaron eighty-three years old

“eighty … eighty-three” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

617EXO779ou3figs-idiomבֶּן־שְׁמֹנִ֣ים שָׁנָ֔ה…בֶּן־שָׁלֹ֥שׁ וּ⁠שְׁמֹנִ֖ים שָׁנָ֑ה1

This is an idiom that refers to their age. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

618EXO78pwphwriting-neweventוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָ֔ה1

This verse marks the beginning of new sections, both major and minor. The major story of the plagues and Exodus itself unfolds from here until after Pharaohs army is defeated at the Red Sea.  The next minor event is the miracle of the rods becoming snakes. Either by using particular forms that your language uses to mark transitions or by making a section break and heading, this transition should be marked for readers.  (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

619EXO78p2kfלֵ⁠אמֹֽר1

Here, saying marks the beginning of a direct quote and is often omitted in translation when such a construction is unnatural in the target language. See UST.

620EXO79b0jlfigs-quotemarksכִּי֩ יְדַבֵּ֨ר אֲלֵ⁠כֶ֤ם פַּרְעֹה֙ לֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר תְּנ֥וּ לָ⁠כֶ֖ם מוֹפֵ֑ת וְ⁠אָמַרְתָּ֣ אֶֽל־אַהֲרֹ֗ן קַ֧ח אֶֽת־מַטְּ⁠ךָ֛ וְ⁠הַשְׁלֵ֥ךְ לִ⁠פְנֵֽי־פַרְעֹ֖ה יְהִ֥י לְ⁠תַנִּֽין1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

621EXO79jt9zfigs-quotationsכִּי֩ יְדַבֵּ֨ר אֲלֵ⁠כֶ֤ם פַּרְעֹה֙ לֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר תְּנ֥וּ לָ⁠כֶ֖ם מוֹפֵ֑ת וְ⁠אָמַרְתָּ֣ אֶֽל־אַהֲרֹ֗ן קַ֧ח אֶֽת־מַטְּ⁠ךָ֛ וְ⁠הַשְׁלֵ֥ךְ לִ⁠פְנֵֽי־פַרְעֹ֖ה יְהִ֥י לְ⁠תַנִּֽין1When Pharaoh says to you, Do a miracle, then you will say to Aaron, Take your staff and throw it down before Pharaoh, so that it may become a snake.

The two quotations in this verse could be stated as indirect quotes. Alternate translation: “When Pharaoh tells you to do a miracle, then you will tell Aaron to take his staff and throw it down before Pharaoh so that it may become a snake” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

622EXO79ye9jfigs-quotemarksתְּנ֥וּ לָ⁠כֶ֖ם מוֹפֵ֑ת1

This is a second-level direct quotation. If you did not decide to make it an indirect quotation, it may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with second-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation within a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

623EXO79r0tpfigs-quotemarksקַ֧ח אֶֽת־מַטְּ⁠ךָ֛ וְ⁠הַשְׁלֵ֥ךְ לִ⁠פְנֵֽי־פַרְעֹ֖ה יְהִ֥י לְ⁠תַנִּֽין1

This is a second-level direct quotation. The second level may end after Pharaoh. If you did not decide to make it an indirect quotation, it may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with second-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation within a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

624EXO79p3xhלֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר1

Here, saying marks the beginning of a direct quote and is often omitted in translation when such a construction is unnatural in the target language. See UST.

625EXO79ms5ofigs-youdualאֲלֵ⁠כֶ֤ם…לָ⁠כֶ֖ם1

These are plural, referring to Moses and Aaron. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a dual form (if you have one) or plural form (if not) here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

626EXO796hfgfigs-quotesinquotesתְּנ֥וּ לָ⁠כֶ֖ם מוֹפֵ֑ת1

This is a second-level quotation. It should be marked in some manner that distinguishes it from the outer level. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

627EXO79s5a9קַ֧ח אֶֽת־מַטְּ⁠ךָ֛ וְ⁠הַשְׁלֵ֥ךְ לִ⁠פְנֵֽי־פַרְעֹ֖ה יְהִ֥י לְ⁠תַנִּֽין1

This is a second-level quotation. It should be marked in some manner that distinguishes it from the outer level. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

628EXO79ogk9figs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵֽי־פַרְעֹ֖ה1

Although before the face of still has the standard figurative meaning of “in the presence of,” it is a much more literal use here. Moses and Aaron are to actually do the miracles in front of Pharaoh so that Pharaoh can see them. Alternative translation: “so Pharaoh can see it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

629EXO7104q7rfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֥י פַרְעֹ֛ה וְ⁠לִ⁠פְנֵ֥י עֲבָדָ֖י⁠ו1

This time, while before the face of still has the standard figurative meaning of “in the presence of,” it is a much more literal use here. Aaron actually does this right in front of Pharaoh and his servants so they could watch what happens. Alternative translation: “where Pharaoh and his servants could see it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

630EXO7103dkqעֲבָדָ֖י⁠ו1

His servants probably refers to important advisors that would be in the kings court, and does not refer common servants.

631EXO711mqdeלַֽ⁠חֲכָמִ֖ים וְ⁠לַֽ⁠מְכַשְּׁפִ֑ים…חַרְטֻמֵּ֥י1

Here, magicians probably describes both wise men and sorcerers rather than being a third group. See translationWords articles for each term.

632EXO712u6npוַ⁠יִּבְלַ֥ע1swallowed up

“ate up” or “devoured”

633EXO712m0kwgrammar-connect-logic-contrastוַ⁠יִּבְלַ֥ע מַטֵּֽה־אַהֲרֹ֖ן אֶת־מַטֹּתָֽ⁠ם1

This is a surprising and amusing twist which was not what the magicians expected. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

634EXO712prnpfigs-personificationמַטֵּֽה…מַטֹּתָֽ⁠ם1

It may be necessary in some languages to translate the word staff as “snake” since it had turned into one. This may be true if it would not make sense in the target language to say (because it is not living) that a staff swallowed or ate something. It may also be not make sense in some languages to speak of the snakes as staffs once transformed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

635EXO713g42ffigs-metaphorוַ⁠יֶּחֱזַק֙ לֵ֣ב פַּרְעֹ֔ה1Pharaohs heart was hardened

Pharaohs stubborn attitude is spoken of as if his heart were strong. If the heart is not the body part your culture uses to refer to a persons will, consider using whichever organ your culture would use for this image. See how you translated this in Exodus 4:21, but note that this is a neutral statement (it does not say that anyone caused him to be stubborn, as many others in this part of the narrative do). Alternate translation: “Pharaoh was still defiant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

636EXO7132fveכַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֖ר דִּבֶּ֥ר יְהוָֽה1

Because Yahwehs prediction precedes this event, some languages may need to place the reference to that prediction before the statement that it was fulfilled. See UST.

637EXO714d27rfigs-metaphorכָּבֵ֖ד לֵ֣ב פַּרְעֹ֑ה1Pharaohs heart is hard

Yahweh speaks of Pharaohs stubborn attitude as if Pharaohs heart were heavy. If the heart is not the body part your culture uses to refer to a persons will, consider using whichever organ your culture would use for this image. This is a neutral statement (it does not say that anyone caused him to be stubborn as many others in this part of the narrative do). See how you translated this in Exodus 7:13, but note the slightly different metaphor there: the heart being heavy vs strong. Alternate translation: “Pharaoh is defiant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

638EXO714qiyxwriting-neweventוַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר1

A new scene begins here, which may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

639EXO714t79bfigs-quotemarksמֹשֶׁ֔ה 1

After this phrase, a direct quote begins that continues to the end of verse 18. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

640EXO715ecbyהִנֵּה֙1

This is used to draw attention to information that follows.

641EXO715c5npיֹצֵ֣א הַ⁠מַּ֔יְמָ⁠ה1when he goes out to the water

There are various theories as to what Pharaoh went down to the Nile to do, but there is no need to speculate or specify in the translation.

642EXO716yqp7וְ⁠אָמַרְתָּ֣ אֵלָ֗י⁠ו1Say to him

“Say to Pharaoh”

643EXO716i4ytfigs-quotemarksיְהוָ֞ה1

This begins a second-level quotation that continues until the end of verse 18. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with second-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation within a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

644EXO716uvxefigs-possessionאֱלֹהֵ֤י הָ⁠עִבְרִים֙1

Yahweh claimed the Hebrews (Israelites) as his own. They worshiped him. This is a possessive of social relationship. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

645EXO716d16qfigs-quotesinquotesשַׁלַּח֙ אֶת־עַמִּ֔⁠י וְ⁠יַֽעַבְדֻ֖⁠נִי בַּ⁠מִּדְבָּ֑ר וְ⁠הִנֵּ֥ה לֹא־שָׁמַ֖עְתָּ עַד־כֹּֽה1

This is a third-level quotation. It should be marked in some manner that distinguishes it from the outer levels. Alternatively, you could translate it as an indirect quotation as in the UST. If you do this, take care to adjust the pronoun person (second/third) as appropriate. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

646EXO716cwoxוְ⁠הִנֵּ֥ה1

Behold is used to draw attention to the information that follows. In some languages, it will not be translated.

647EXO717j1evכֹּ֚ה אָמַ֣ר יְהוָ֔ה1strike the water

This quotation form is used to introduce commands from Yahweh. See 4:intro for more information.

648EXO717mywjfigs-quotesinquotesבְּ⁠זֹ֣את1

This begins a third-level quotation that continues until the end of verse 18. It should be marked in some manner that distinguishes it from the outer levels. It is possible that the third-level quote actually ends before Behold, in which case, in the rest of the quote I refers to Moses, not Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

649EXO717jjm3הִנֵּ֨ה1

Behold is a term meant to focus the attention of the listener on what the speaker is about to say. Alternate translation: “Look at this”

650EXO718bsjngrammar-connect-logic-resultוּ⁠בָאַ֣שׁ הַ⁠יְאֹ֑ר1

The river will stink will happen because the fish die. Alternate translation: “and because of that the river will stink” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

651EXO718nx0qgrammar-connect-logic-resultוְ⁠נִלְא֣וּ מִצְרַ֔יִם לִ⁠שְׁתּ֥וֹת מַ֖יִם מִן־הַ⁠יְאֹֽר1

In some languages you will need to put the reason before the result. Alternative translation: “In order to find water to drink from the river, the Egyptians will exhaust themselves.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

652EXO718350ifigs-rpronounsוְ⁠נִלְא֣וּ מִצְרַ֔יִם1

Here, themselves refers back to the subject (the Egyptians) to indicated that the Egyptians are the object of the verb as well. Different languages have different methods of marking this. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

653EXO718grwhfigs-quotemarksמִן־הַ⁠יְאֹֽר1

After this phrase, the direct quote of Yahwehs commands ends. Depending on your decisions about the embedded quotation levels, you may have up to three levels of quotations that need to be closed here. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with closing quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of a quotation and quotations within quotations. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

654EXO719jimafigs-quotemarksאֱמֹ֣ר אֶֽל־אַהֲרֹ֡ן קַ֣ח מַטְּ⁠ךָ֣ וּ⁠נְטֵֽה־יָדְ⁠ךָ֩ עַל־מֵימֵ֨י מִצְרַ֜יִם עַֽל־נַהֲרֹתָ֣⁠ם׀ עַל־יְאֹרֵי⁠הֶ֣ם וְ⁠עַל־אַגְמֵי⁠הֶ֗ם וְ⁠עַ֛ל כָּל־מִקְוֵ֥ה מֵימֵי⁠הֶ֖ם וְ⁠יִֽהְיוּ־דָ֑ם וְ⁠הָ֤יָה דָם֙ בְּ⁠כָל־אֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֔יִם וּ⁠בָ⁠עֵצִ֖ים וּ⁠בָ⁠אֲבָנִֽים1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

655EXO7199o1qfigs-quotemarksקַ֣ח מַטְּ⁠ךָ֣ וּ⁠נְטֵֽה־יָדְ⁠ךָ֩ עַל־מֵימֵ֨י מִצְרַ֜יִם עַֽל־נַהֲרֹתָ֣⁠ם׀ עַל־יְאֹרֵי⁠הֶ֣ם וְ⁠עַל־אַגְמֵי⁠הֶ֗ם וְ⁠עַ֛ל כָּל־מִקְוֵ֥ה מֵימֵי⁠הֶ֖ם וְ⁠יִֽהְיוּ־דָ֑ם1

This is a second-level direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with second-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation within a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

656EXO719ysi7figs-merismעַֽל־נַהֲרֹתָ֣⁠ם׀ עַל־יְאֹרֵי⁠הֶ֣ם וְ⁠עַל־אַגְמֵי⁠הֶ֗ם וְ⁠עַ֛ל כָּל־מִקְוֵ֥ה מֵימֵי⁠הֶ֖ם1

This list is meant to expand on and reinforce the idea of all of the water in Egypt. You should translate the list in such a way that the locations of the blood are not limited to these specific places, but to imply universality. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

657EXO719wxp2בְּ⁠כָל־אֶ֣רֶץ1throughout all

“in every part of”

658EXO719msxpfigs-possessionוּ⁠בָ⁠עֵצִ֖ים וּ⁠בָ⁠אֲבָנִֽים1

This possessive show composition. Alternate translation: “and in containers made from wood and in containers made from stone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

659EXO720zy18figs-explicitבַּ⁠יְאֹ֔ר1in the river

The name of the river may be made explicit. Alternate translation: “in the Nile River” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

660EXO720mj8vfigs-metonymyלְ⁠עֵינֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֔ה וּ⁠לְ⁠עֵינֵ֖י עֲבָדָ֑י⁠ו1

This means in their sight. Alternate translation: “in the sight of Pharaoh and his servants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

661EXO7226njdtranslate-unknownחַרְטֻמֵּ֥י1

See how you translated this term in 7:11. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

662EXO722qdc7figs-metaphorוַ⁠יֶּחֱזַ֤ק לֵב־פַּרְעֹה֙1Pharaohs heart was hardened

Pharaohs stubborn attitude is spoken of as if his heart were strong. If the heart is not the body part your culture uses to refer to a persons will, consider using whichever organ your culture would use for this image. This is a neutral statement (it does not say that anyone caused him to be stubborn as many others in this part of the narrative do). See how you translated this in Exodus 7:13. Alternate translation: “Pharaoh was still defiant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

663EXO722sbicכַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֖ר דִּבֶּ֥ר יְהוָֽה1

Because Yahwehs prediction precedes this event, some languages may need to place the reference to that prediction before the statement that it was fulfilled. See UST and how you handled this in 7:13 where the same sentence appears.

664EXO723atdkfigs-idiomוְ⁠לֹא־שָׁ֥ת לִבּ֖⁠וֹ גַּם־לָ⁠זֹֽאת1

This is an idiom meaning Pharaoh did not think about the meaning of the miracle he had just seen. Alternate translation: “And he did not consider what even this meant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

665EXO724m6znfigs-hyperboleכָל־מִצְרַ֛יִם1All the Egyptians

The word all here is a generalization that means “many.” At the least, the upper class would have sent their slaves to dig for them. Alternate translation: “Many of the Egyptians” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

666EXO72593t8writing-neweventוַ⁠יִּמָּלֵ֖א 1

A new scene begins here, which may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

667EXO7255ma1figs-idiomוַ⁠יִּמָּלֵ֖א שִׁבְעַ֣ת יָמִ֑ים1

This is an idiom meaning seven days later. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

668EXO7258auttranslate-numbersשִׁבְעַ֣ת1

“7” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

669EXO8introww1y0

Exodus 08 General Notes

Possible translation difficulties in this chapter

  • the exact insects in plagues 3-4 are not certain, translation teams will need to decide what insects they can use for each
  • Pharaoh makes his own heart heavy, that is, he determines to be proud and resist Yahweh twice in this chapter
  • the Israelites sacrifices are spoken of as an abomination to the Egyptians but it is not specified how or why that is

Lifting up the hand and staff:

In the next few chapters God will instruct Moses and/or Aaron to raise his hand and/or staff. The narrative will then record that whoever will raise his hand and/or staff. The instruction and the action do not always match exactly. God may say raise your hand and the narrative may say Moses raised his staff. These are not conflicting reports. Translators should understand that the hand and the staff are always understood together. They are one unit and they can both be mentioned or they can be mentioned separately. In each case, Moses or Aaron raises his hand with the staff in it. This fact is merely expressed differently.

Special concepts in this chapter

Pharaohs hard heart

Pharaohs heart is often described as hard in this chapter. This means that his heart was not open or willing to understand Yahwehs instructions. When his heart was hardened, it became less and less receptive to Yahweh.

Let my people go

This is a very important statement. Moses does not ask Pharaoh for permission to “let go” of the Hebrew people. Instead, he is demanding that Pharaoh free the Hebrew people.

670EXO81tf7bfigs-quotationsבֹּ֖א 1

This begins a direct quote that continues until the end of verse 4. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

671EXO81v6llכֹּ֚ה אָמַ֣ר יְהוָ֔ה1

This quotation form is used to introduce commands from Yahweh. See 4:intro for more information.

672EXO81lndcfigs-quotesinquotesכֹּ֚ה1

This begins a second-level quote that continues until the end of verse 4. It should be marked in some manner that distinguishes it from the outer level. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

673EXO81kurefigs-quotesinquotesשַׁלַּ֥ח 1

This begins a third-level quote that continues until the end of verse 4. It should be marked in some manner that distinguishes it from the outer levels. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

674EXO82s7y1figs-ellipsisלְ⁠שַׁלֵּ֑חַ1

What Pharaoh is to let go is not specified, but “my people” or “the Israelites” are the understood object. Alternate translation: “to let the Israelites go” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

675EXO82aei8הִנֵּ֣ה1

Behold is an interjection meant to focus the attention of the listener on what comes next, in this case a dire warning. Alternate translation: “look out”

676EXO835zo6figs-merismבְּ⁠בֵיתֶ֔⁠ךָ וּ⁠בַ⁠חֲדַ֥ר מִשְׁכָּבְ⁠ךָ֖ וְ⁠עַל־מִטָּתֶ֑⁠ךָ וּ⁠בְ⁠בֵ֤ית עֲבָדֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ וּ⁠בְ⁠עַמֶּ֔⁠ךָ וּ⁠בְ⁠תַנּוּרֶ֖י⁠ךָ וּ⁠בְ⁠מִשְׁאֲרוֹתֶֽי⁠ךָ1

This long list means “everywhere in Egypt.” It is presented in this way for rhetorical effect, that is, to convince Pharaoh of how bad this plague will be so he will obey. You should translate the list in such a way that the frogs location is not limited to these specific places. The list should imply universality. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

677EXO84okokfigs-quotemarks1

Up to three levels of quotes end at the end of this verse. Depending on how many levels you chose to mark as direct quotations, you should indicate them ending here with closing second-level (and third-level) quotation mark(s) or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of quotations and quotations within a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

678EXO85wll3figs-quotemarksאֱמֹ֣ר אֶֽל־אַהֲרֹ֗ן נְטֵ֤ה אֶת־יָדְ⁠ךָ֙ בְּ⁠מַטֶּ֔⁠ךָ עַל־הַ֨⁠נְּהָרֹ֔ת עַל־הַ⁠יְאֹרִ֖ים וְ⁠עַל־הָ⁠אֲגַמִּ֑ים וְ⁠הַ֥עַל אֶת־הַֽ⁠צְפַרְדְּעִ֖ים עַל־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with first-level opening and closing quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

679EXO85ley6figs-quotationsוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָה֮ אֶל־מֹשֶׁה֒ אֱמֹ֣ר אֶֽל־אַהֲרֹ֗ן1

It may be helpful to translate this first quotation indirectly to avoid having two levels of quotations in this verse. Alternate translation: “And Yahweh told Moses to say to Aaron” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

680EXO855myyfigs-quotemarksנְטֵ֤ה אֶת־יָדְ⁠ךָ֙ בְּ⁠מַטֶּ֔⁠ךָ עַל־הַ֨⁠נְּהָרֹ֔ת עַל־הַ⁠יְאֹרִ֖ים וְ⁠עַל־הָ⁠אֲגַמִּ֑ים וְ⁠הַ֥עַל אֶת־הַֽ⁠צְפַרְדְּעִ֖ים עַל־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם1

This is a second-level direct quotation (if you chose to make Say to Aaron a direct quotation). It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with second-level opening and closing quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation inside a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

681EXO851qzzיָדְ⁠ךָ֙ בְּ⁠מַטֶּ֔⁠ךָ1

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

682EXO85z19qfigs-merismעַל־הַ֨⁠נְּהָרֹ֔ת עַל־הַ⁠יְאֹרִ֖ים וְ⁠עַל־הָ⁠אֲגַמִּ֑ים1

This list is meant to convey the idea of all the water in Egypt where frogs might live. You should translate the list in such a way that the locations are not limited to these specific places. The list should imply universality. This is made clear in 8:6.(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

683EXO86wf3afigs-explicitוַ⁠יֵּ֤ט אַהֲרֹן֙1

It is implied that Moses told Yahwehs instructions to Aaron. You may choose to make this explicit as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

684EXO863t7nfigs-explicitיָד֔⁠וֹ1

It is implied that Aaron was holding his staff as instructed. You may choose to make this explicit. See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff. Alternate translation: “his hand holding his staff” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

685EXO86j1w7figs-synecdocheוַ⁠יֵּ֤ט אַהֲרֹן֙ אֶת־יָד֔⁠וֹ עַ֖ל מֵימֵ֣י1

Aaron would not have been able to reach his hand over all the water in Egypt. He likely stretched his hand over some nearby portion of the Nile symbolizing all the water of Egypt. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

686EXO86drmgfigs-explicitוַ⁠תַּ֨עַל֙1

Verse 3 has specified from where the frogs will come. Here it is implied, but you may make it explicit as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

687EXO86rxzefigs-collectivenounsהַ⁠צְּפַרְדֵּ֔עַ1

There were so many frogs that the text uses the collective singular. If that does not make sense in your language, you may simply use the plural as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-collectivenouns]])

688EXO86j83dfigs-metaphorוַ⁠תַּ֨עַל֙ הַ⁠צְּפַרְדֵּ֔עַ וַ⁠תְּכַ֖ס אֶת־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם1

This means that there were frogs everywhere in Egypt. The image is like that of a blanket smothering the entire country. (Or more directly, like one giant, nation-sized frog sitting on top of the entire land). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

689EXO875yzgtranslate-unknownהַֽ⁠חֲרְטֻמִּ֖ים בְּ⁠לָטֵי⁠הֶ֑ם1

See how you translated these in 7:11. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

690EXO88mhn3וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֨א פַרְעֹ֜ה לְ⁠מֹשֶׁ֣ה וּֽ⁠לְ⁠אַהֲרֹ֗ן1Then Pharaoh called for Moses and Aaron

“Then Pharaoh sent for Moses and Aaron” or “And the king summoned Moses and Aaron”

691EXO88nfe3figs-explicitוַ⁠יִּקְרָ֨א פַרְעֹ֜ה לְ⁠מֹשֶׁ֣ה וּֽ⁠לְ⁠אַהֲרֹ֗ן וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר֙1

It is implied that Moses and Aaron came between being called and Pharaoh speaking to them. You may need to make that explicit. Alternate translation: “And Pharaoh called for Moses and for Aaron, and after they came he said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

692EXO88pc7efigs-quotemarksהַעְתִּ֣ירוּ אֶל־יְהוָ֔ה וְ⁠יָסֵר֙ הַֽ⁠צְפַרְדְּעִ֔ים מִמֶּ֖⁠נִּי וּ⁠מֵֽ⁠עַמִּ֑⁠י וַ⁠אֲשַׁלְּחָה֙ אֶת־הָ⁠עָ֔ם וְ⁠יִזְבְּח֖וּ לַ⁠יהוָֽה1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

693EXO88tx3tfigs-quotationsאֶל־יְהוָ֔ה וְ⁠יָסֵר֙ הַֽ⁠צְפַרְדְּעִ֔ים מִמֶּ֖⁠נִּי וּ⁠מֵֽ⁠עַמִּ֑⁠י1

In some languages you may have to make the content of Pharaohs prayer to Yahweh a direct quote. Note that this will make it a second-level quotation and you will need to mark it with second-level quotation markings if your language uses them. Alternate translation: “to Yahweh saying, Please take away the frogs from Pharaoh and from his people. ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

694EXO88qku4grammar-connect-condition-hypotheticalוַ⁠אֲשַׁלְּחָה֙ אֶת־הָ⁠עָ֔ם וְ⁠יִזְבְּח֖וּ לַ⁠יהוָֽה1

This promise is conditional on the frogs going away. Alternate translation: “Once the frogs are gone, I will let the people go, and they may sacrifice to Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]])

695EXO89bm7xfigs-quotemarksהִתְפָּאֵ֣ר עָלַ⁠י֒ לְ⁠מָתַ֣י׀ אַעְתִּ֣יר לְ⁠ךָ֗ וְ⁠לַ⁠עֲבָדֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ וּֽ⁠לְ⁠עַמְּ⁠ךָ֔ לְ⁠הַכְרִית֙ הַֽ⁠צֲפַרְדְּעִ֔ים מִמְּ⁠ךָ֖ וּ⁠מִ⁠בָּתֶּ֑י⁠ךָ רַ֥ק בַּ⁠יְאֹ֖ר תִּשָּׁאַֽרְנָה1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

696EXO89khfdfigs-ironyהִתְפָּאֵ֣ר עָלַ⁠י֒1

Moses speaks with false humility here. He is ironically pointing out Pharaohs powerlessness before Yahweh. Alternate translation: “You can choose” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])

697EXO89g0lufigs-merismלְ⁠ךָ֗ וְ⁠לַ⁠עֲבָדֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ וּֽ⁠לְ⁠עַמְּ⁠ךָ֔…מִמְּ⁠ךָ֖ וּ⁠מִ⁠בָּתֶּ֑י⁠ךָ1

These lists mean “for everyone” and “from everywhere” (in Egypt). This makes clear that Moses will ask for a complete end of the plague. You should translate the list in such a way that it does not convey limitation to these specifics, but is understood to imply universality. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

698EXO810g5e7figs-quotemarksלְ⁠מָחָ֑ר1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

699EXO810tvjofigs-quotemarksכִּ⁠דְבָ֣רְ⁠ךָ֔1

A direct quote begins here that continues to the end of the next verse. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

700EXO810ofw3grammar-connect-logic-goalלְמַ֣עַן תֵּדַ֔ע כִּי־אֵ֖ין כַּ⁠יהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֵֽי⁠נוּ1

This knowledge is the goal of Yahwehs granting a respite from the frogs. In some languages you may need to place this at the end of verse 11 after Moses says the frogs will leave. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])

701EXO8108120figs-exclusiveאֱלֹהֵֽי⁠נוּ1

Here, our refers to the Israelites God, excluding Pharaoh and the Egyptians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

702EXO811zwqofigs-merismמִמְּ⁠ךָ֙ וּ⁠מִ⁠בָּ֣תֶּ֔י⁠ךָ וּ⁠מֵ⁠עֲבָדֶ֖י⁠ךָ וּ⁠מֵ⁠עַמֶּ֑⁠ךָ1

This list means “from everywhere and everyone” (in Egypt). This shows that the end of the plague will be as complete as its extent. You should translate the list in such a way that it does not convey limitation to these specifics, but is understood to imply universality. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

703EXO811ttyrfigs-quotemarksרַ֥ק בַּ⁠יְאֹ֖ר תִּשָּׁאַֽרְנָה1

After this phrase, the direct quote of Moses that started in the previous verse ends. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with a closing first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

704EXO812jjv2שָׂ֥ם1

“Yahweh had set”

705EXO812nxyiwriting-neweventוַ⁠יֵּצֵ֥א מֹשֶׁ֛ה וְ⁠אַהֲרֹ֖ן 1

A minor scene shift occurs here and may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

706EXO81380eifigs-merismמִן־הַ⁠בָּתִּ֥ים מִן־הַ⁠חֲצֵרֹ֖ת וּ⁠מִן־הַ⁠שָּׂדֹֽת1

This list means “from everywhere” (in Egypt). This makes clear that there was a complete end of the plague. You should translate the list in such a way that it does not convey limitation to these specifics, but is understood to imply universality. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

707EXO814a03nחֳמָרִ֣ם חֳמָרִ֑ם1

Literally, “piles piles.” Repetition is used in Hebrew to emphasize how many or how big they were.

708EXO815lv2nfigs-metaphorוְ⁠הַכְבֵּד֙ אֶת־לִבּ֔⁠וֹ1he hardened his heart

Pharaohs stubborn attitude is spoken of as if he made his own heart heavy. If the heart is not the body part your culture uses to refer to a persons will, consider using whichever organ your culture would use for this image. See how you translated this in Exodus 7:14, but note, there, that the state of Pharaohs heart is reported, whereas here, Pharaoh makes his own heart heavy. Alternate translation: “and Pharaoh determined to be defiant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

709EXO815b47hכַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֖ר דִּבֶּ֥ר יְהוָֽה1just as Yahweh had said that he would do

“just as Yahweh had said Pharaoh would do”

710EXO8167tgcwriting-neweventוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָה֮1

A new scene begins here, which may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. This is the start of the third plague sequence. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

711EXO816s5ghfigs-quotationsאֱמֹר֙ אֶֽל־אַהֲרֹ֔ן נְטֵ֣ה אֶֽת־מַטְּ⁠ךָ֔ וְ⁠הַ֖ךְ אֶת־עֲפַ֣ר הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ וְ⁠הָיָ֥ה לְ⁠כִנִּ֖ם בְּ⁠כָל־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. However, it may be helpful to translate one of the parts as an indirect quotation so that you do not have to have two levels of quotations here. Alternate translation: see UST or “[And Yahweh told Moses] to tell Aaron” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

712EXO816xh9efigs-quotemarksנְטֵ֣ה אֶֽת־מַטְּ⁠ךָ֔ וְ⁠הַ֖ךְ אֶת־עֲפַ֣ר הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ וְ⁠הָיָ֥ה לְ⁠כִנִּ֖ם בְּ⁠כָל־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם1

This is a second-level direct quotation (unless you translated one portion as an indirect quotation). It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with second-level (or first-level) quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation (within a quotation). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

713EXO816joxzנְטֵ֣ה אֶֽת־מַטְּ⁠ךָ֔ וְ⁠הַ֖ךְ1

This is one action or motion but it is described with the two verbs that occur throughout this section of plague judgment.

714EXO8164kyjמַטְּ⁠ךָ֔1

This is Aarons staff. See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

715EXO816w5eltranslate-unknownלְ⁠כִנִּ֖ם1

We do not know exactly what this word means. It is probably a tiny (as in dust-particle size) biting insect. You should choose a different insect here than in the next plague (8:21-8:31). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

716EXO8178znoוַ⁠יֵּט֩ אַהֲרֹ֨ן אֶת־יָד֤⁠וֹ בְ⁠מַטֵּ֨⁠הוּ֙ וַ⁠יַּךְ֙ אֶת־עֲפַ֣ר הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ1

Again, this is one action or motion but it is described with the two verbs that occur throughout this section of plague judgment. See how you translated it in the previous verse.

717EXO817l784יָד֤⁠וֹ בְ⁠מַטֵּ֨⁠הוּ֙1

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

718EXO817nhgttranslate-unknownהַ⁠כִּנָּ֔ם …כִנִּ֖ים 1

Again, we do not know this term for certain, so see how you translated it in 8:16. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

719EXO817grs3figs-gendernotationsבָּ⁠אָדָ֖ם1

This includes women and children. Alternate translation: “people” or “mankind” or “humans” See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

720EXO817grg5figs-hyperboleכָּל־עֲפַ֥ר הָ⁠אָ֛רֶץ …בְּ⁠כָל־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם1

This extraordinary statement is used to emphasize the extent and severity of the plague. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

721EXO8189iqctranslate-unknownהַ⁠חַרְטֻמִּ֧ים בְּ⁠לָטֵי⁠הֶ֛ם1

See how you translated these in 7:11. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

722EXO818ii85translate-unknownהַ⁠כִּנִּ֖ים …הַ⁠כִּנָּ֔ם 1

See how you translated this term in 8:16. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

723EXO818mnj5figs-gendernotationsבָּ⁠אָדָ֖ם 1

This includes women and children. Alternate translation: “people” or “mankind” or “humans” See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

724EXO81922betranslate-unknownהַֽ⁠חַרְטֻמִּים֙ 1

See how you translated this term in 7:11. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

725EXO819lk2kfigs-synecdocheאֶצְבַּ֥ע אֱלֹהִ֖ים הִ֑וא1This is the finger of God

The words “finger of God” represent the power of God. Alternate translation: “This is the powerful work of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

726EXO819z1w2figs-metaphorוַ⁠יֶּחֱזַ֤ק לֵב־פַּרְעֹה֙1Pharaohs heart was hardened

Pharaohs stubborn attitude is spoken of as if his heart were strong. If the heart is not the body part your culture uses to refer to a persons will, consider using whichever organ your culture would use for this image. See how you translated this in Exodus 7:13. This is a neutral statement (it does not say that anyone caused him to be stubborn as many others in this part of the narrative do). Alternate translation: “Pharaoh was still defiant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

727EXO819rp3iwriting-participantsאֲלֵ⁠הֶ֔ם 1

It is possible that them refers to the magicians here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

728EXO819gjggכַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֖ר דִּבֶּ֥ר יְהוָֽה1

Some languages will need to place this before the thing that Yahweh predicted, as in the UST.

729EXO820j5n8וְ⁠הִתְיַצֵּב֙ לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֔ה1stand in front of Pharaoh

“and present yourself to Pharaoh”

730EXO820frfnwriting-neweventוַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר יְהוָ֜ה1

A new scene begins here, which may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. This is the beginning of the fourth plague sequence. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

731EXO820syv2figs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֔ה1

Here, face figuratively means the presence of a person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

732EXO8202g25הִנֵּ֖ה 1

This is used to draw attention to important information that is next. In some languages and translation styles it will make the most sense to omit this, as in the UST. Alternate translation: “Listen carefully”

733EXO820uypafigs-quotationsכֹּ֚ה אָמַ֣ר יְהוָ֔ה1

This phrase opens a direct quote which continues until the end of verse 23. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. However, you may also consider making the opening portion an indirect quote so that you do not have a quote inside of a quote for the next verses. Alternate translation: “that Yahweh says” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

734EXO820eqd2כֹּ֚ה אָמַ֣ר יְהוָ֔ה1Let my people go

This quotation form is used to introduce commands from Yahweh. See 4:intro for more information.

735EXO820a7l7figs-quotemarksשַׁלַּ֥ח 1

This phrase opens a second-level direct quote which continues until the end of verse 23, unless you made thus says Yahweh an indirect quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with second-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation within a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

736EXO820fgl3grammar-connect-logic-goalוְ⁠יַֽעַבְדֻֽ⁠נִי1

This is the purpose of the people being let go. Alternate translation: “so they can serve me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])

737EXO821hitqהִנְ⁠נִי֩1

This is used to draw attention to important information that is next. Alternate translation: “Listen carefully”

738EXO821hwcltranslate-collectivenounsהֶ⁠עָרֹ֑ב…הֶ֣⁠עָרֹ֔ב1

This is a collective singular noun that refers to a great number of swarming, biting insects. Alternate translation: “swarms of flies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-collectivenouns]])

739EXO8212g9vtranslate-unknownהֶ⁠עָרֹ֑ב…הֶ֣⁠עָרֹ֔ב1

These are probably the large common flies that bother humans and livestock. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

740EXO821folifigs-merismבְּ⁠ךָ֜ וּ⁠בַ⁠עֲבָדֶ֧י⁠ךָ וּֽ⁠בְ⁠עַמְּ⁠ךָ֛ וּ⁠בְ⁠בָתֶּ֖י⁠ךָ…בָּתֵּ֤י מִצְרַ֨יִם֙…וְ⁠גַ֥ם הָ⁠אֲדָמָ֖ה1

This long list means, “everywhere in Egypt.” It is presented in this way for rhetorical effect, that is, to convince Pharaoh of how bad this plague will be so he will obey. You should translate the list in such a way that the flies location is not limited to these specific places, but is understood to imply universality. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]]

741EXO822mv8wgrammar-connect-logic-resultלְ⁠בִלְתִּ֥י הֱיֽוֹת־שָׁ֖ם עָרֹ֑ב1General Information:

This is the result of Yahweh treating the land of Goshen differently. Alternate translation: “by keeping the swarm from there” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

742EXO822apumtranslate-collectivenounsעָרֹ֑ב1

This is a collective singular noun that refers to a great number of swarming, biting insects. See how you translated this in 8:21. Alternate translation: “swarms of flies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-collectivenouns]])

743EXO82285hptranslate-unknownעָרֹ֑ב1

These are probably the large common flies that bother humans and livestock. See how you translated this in 8:21 (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

744EXO822refqgrammar-connect-logic-goalלְמַ֣עַן תֵּדַ֔ע כִּ֛י אֲנִ֥י יְהוָ֖ה בְּ⁠קֶ֥רֶב הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ1

This is the goal of treating the Israelites differently. In some languages you may need to put this phrase the beginning of the verse. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])

745EXO822a28hאֲנִ֥י יְהוָ֖ה בְּ⁠קֶ֥רֶב הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ1

Here, am could be connecting I and Yahweh or it could be connecting I, Yahweh and in the middle of the land. Alternate translation: “I, Yahweh, am in the middle of the land”

746EXO8238fspfigs-abstractnounsפְדֻ֔ת 1

This is a noun derived from a verb meaning “to buy back.” Very broadly it can mean “to save or rescue.” See the next note regarding textual variants for more information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

747EXO823tf4jtranslate-textvariantsפְדֻ֔ת 1

Many translations follow the Septuagint here, which uses the word “division.” A minor change to the Hebrew would also produce the word translated “treat differently” in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “a division” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])

748EXO823u4gsעַמִּ֖⁠י1

Yahwehs people, that is, the Israelites. Alternate translation: “the Israelites”

749EXO823rg2cעַמֶּ֑⁠ךָ 1

Pharaohs people, that is, the Egyptians. Alternate translation: “the Egyptians”

750EXO8239c85figs-quotemarksלְ⁠מָחָ֥ר יִהְיֶ֖ה הָ⁠אֹ֥ת הַ⁠זֶּֽה׃1

After this phrase, the three levels of direct quotations of Yahweh that started in 8:20 ends. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with closing first-level, second-level, and third-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of quotations. You may not have three levels if you made any level an indirect quote. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

751EXO824gw3cfigs-explicitוַ⁠יַּ֤עַשׂ יְהוָה֙ כֵּ֔ן1

The UST supplies a brief sentence filling in the gap between Yahwehs command to Moses and the onset of the plague. Some languages will need something like that to make the progression of events clear. Alternate translation: “Moses obeyed the instructions Yahweh gave him and Pharaoh responded as Yahweh had said he would. And Yahweh did so” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

752EXO824lk5swriting-neweventוַ⁠יַּ֤עַשׂ יְהוָה֙ כֵּ֔ן1

There is a minor scene change here, which may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

753EXO824ut0ftranslate-unknownעָרֹ֣ב1

There are probably the large common flies that bother humans and livestock. See how you translated this in 8:21 (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

754EXO824dg0ktranslate-goוַ⁠יָּבֹא֙ 1

Some languages may need to translate this as going rather than coming. Alternate translation: “and … went” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

755EXO82497aqfigs-merismבֵּ֥יתָ⁠ה פַרְעֹ֖ה וּ⁠בֵ֣ית עֲבָדָ֑י⁠ו1

This means “to everyone everywhere” (in Egypt) as made explicit in the next statement. This makes clear that the insects were throughout the land. You should translate this in such a way that it does not convey limitation to these specifics, but is understood to imply universality. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

756EXO824nd6efigs-activepassiveתִּשָּׁחֵ֥ת הָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ מִ⁠פְּנֵ֥י הֶ⁠עָרֹֽב1the land was ruined because of the swarms of flies

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “The swarms of flies devastated the land” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

757EXO824nguefigs-metonymyמִ⁠פְּנֵ֥י הֶ⁠עָרֹֽב1

Here, face figuratively represents the presence of the insects. Alternate translation: “because the insects were everywhere” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

758EXO825e7l0grammar-connect-time-simultaneousוַ⁠יִּקְרָ֣א 1

This happened during the plague. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])

759EXO825ciy5figs-quotemarksלְכ֛וּ זִבְח֥וּ לֵֽ⁠אלֹהֵי⁠כֶ֖ם בָּ⁠אָֽרֶץ1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

760EXO825gj2wfigs-youdualלֵֽ⁠אלֹהֵי⁠כֶ֖ם 1

Here, your is plural. it could refer either to Moses and Aaron or to the Israelites. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a dual form (if you have one) if your team decides it means Moses and Aaron, otherwise use a plural form. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

761EXO826tvnjfigs-quotemarksוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר מֹשֶׁ֗ה1

After this phrase a direct quote begins that continues until the end of 8:27. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

762EXO8269x8pתּוֹעֲבַ֣ת מִצְרַ֔יִם…תּוֹעֲבַ֥ת מִצְרַ֛יִם1

We do not know what about their sacrificing was an abomination to the Egyptians. The same term is used in Genesis 43:32 and 46:34 to describe the Egyptians feelings about eating with Hebrews and about the Hebrew profession of shepherding, respectively. Translators should attempt to convey the strong negative feelings that would be provoked in the Egyptians without speculating as to the cause.

763EXO82643clfigs-exclusiveנִזְבַּ֖ח …אֱלֹהֵ֑י⁠נוּ …נִזְבַּ֞ח …יִסְקְלֻֽ⁠נוּ1

Here, we, our, and us should all be translated as exclusive (if your language makes that distinction). Pharaoh and the Egyptians are not included. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

764EXO826i7dyfigs-rquestionוְ⁠לֹ֥א יִסְקְלֻֽ⁠נוּ1will they not stone us?

Moses asks this question to show Pharaoh that the Egyptians would not allow the Israelites to worship Yahweh by making a sacrifice repugnant to them. Alternate translation: “they will certainly stone us!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

765EXO826gy7dfigs-metonymyלְ⁠עֵינֵי⁠הֶ֖ם1right before their eyes

This is a figurative way of saying “where they can see.” Alternate translation: “in their sight” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

766EXO827ju3ufigs-exclusiveנֵלֵ֖ךְ…וְ⁠זָבַ֨חְנוּ֙…אֱלֹהֵ֔י⁠נוּ…אֵלֵֽי⁠נוּ1

Here, we, our, and us should all be translated as exclusive (if your language makes that distinction). Pharaoh and his people are not included. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

767EXO827clc3figs-quotemarksאֵלֵֽי⁠נוּ1

After this phrase, the direct quote of Moses argument to Pharaoh ends. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with a closing first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

768EXO828p3pdfigs-quotemarksאָנֹכִ֞י אֲשַׁלַּ֤ח אֶתְ⁠כֶם֙ וּ⁠זְבַחְתֶּ֞ם לַ⁠יהוָ֤ה אֱלֹֽהֵי⁠כֶם֙ בַּ⁠מִּדְבָּ֔ר רַ֛ק הַרְחֵ֥ק לֹא־תַרְחִ֖יקוּ לָ⁠לֶ֑כֶת הַעְתִּ֖ירוּ בַּעֲדִֽ⁠י1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

769EXO828qxesfigs-youdualאֶתְ⁠כֶם֙ …אֱלֹֽהֵי⁠כֶם֙ …תַרְחִ֖יקוּ 1

If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

770EXO828mla2אֶתְ⁠כֶם֙ 1

“the Israelites”

771EXO828hnudfigs-idiomהַרְחֵ֥ק…תַרְחִ֖יקוּ 1

In Hebrew, far is repeated to emphasize (with not) that they are absolutely not to go too far. If your language does not use repeating words like this, express the emphasis in another way. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

772EXO829kgkxfigs-quotemarksהִנֵּ֨ה אָנֹכִ֜י יוֹצֵ֤א מֵֽ⁠עִמָּ⁠ךְ֙ וְ⁠הַעְתַּרְתִּ֣י אֶל־יְהוָ֔ה וְ⁠סָ֣ר הֶ⁠עָרֹ֗ב מִ⁠פַּרְעֹ֛ה מֵ⁠עֲבָדָ֥י⁠ו וּ⁠מֵ⁠עַמּ֖⁠וֹ מָחָ֑ר רַ֗ק אַל־יֹסֵ֤ף פַּרְעֹה֙ הָתֵ֔ל לְ⁠בִלְתִּי֙ שַׁלַּ֣ח אֶת־הָ⁠עָ֔ם לִ⁠זְבֹּ֖חַ לַֽ⁠יהוָֽה1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

773EXO8293hwqהִנֵּ֨ה 1

This is a term meant to focus the attention of the listener on what the speaker is about to say. If there is not a good way to translate this term in your language, this term can be omitted from the translation. Alternate translation: “Know this”

774EXO829jirmtranslate-unknownהֶ⁠עָרֹ֗ב 1

These are probably the large common flies that bother humans and livestock. See how you translated this in 8:21 (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

775EXO829yvclfigs-123personמִ⁠פַּרְעֹ֛ה …פַּרְעֹה֙ 1

Moses may be using the third person to refer to Pharaoh to show respect, because the king appears to be relenting. If use of the third person is not a way of showing respect in your culture or is not a valid way of addressing an individual at all, you may need to change the form. Alternate translation: “from you ... you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

776EXO829la3zfigs-merismמִ⁠פַּרְעֹ֛ה מֵ⁠עֲבָדָ֥י⁠ו וּ⁠מֵ⁠עַמּ֖⁠וֹ1

This list means “from everywhere and everyone” (in Egypt). This shows that the end of the plague will be as complete as its extent. You should translate the list in such a way that it does not convey limitation to these specifics, but is understood to imply universality. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

777EXO829bf85figs-doublenegativesאַל־יֹסֵ֤ף פַּרְעֹה֙ הָתֵ֔ל לְ⁠בִלְתִּי֙ שַׁלַּ֣ח אֶת־הָ⁠עָ֔ם1you must not deal deceitfully any more by not letting our people go

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “you must begin to deal truthfully with us and let our people go” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

778EXO829hh4qרַ֗ק אַל־יֹסֵ֤ף פַּרְעֹה֙ הָתֵ֔ל1But you must not deal deceitfully

“But you must not deceive us” or “But you must not lie to us”

779EXO83049lewriting-neweventוַ⁠יֵּצֵ֥א מֹשֶׁ֖ה1

There is a minor scene shift here, which may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

780EXO831rj50translate-unknownהֶ⁠עָרֹ֔ב 1

These are probably the large common flies that bother humans and livestock. See how you translated this in 8:21 (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

781EXO8312ifsfigs-merismמִ⁠פַּרְעֹ֖ה מֵ⁠עֲבָדָ֣י⁠ו וּ⁠מֵ⁠עַמּ֑⁠וֹ1

This list means “from everyone and everywhere” (in Egypt). This makes clear that there was a complete end of the plague. You should translate the list in such a way that it does not convey limitation to these specifics, but is understood to imply universality. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

782EXO831mb4rfigs-hyperboleלֹ֥א נִשְׁאַ֖ר אֶחָֽד1

This extreme statement emphasizes how thoroughly Yahweh removed the insects from the land. Alternate translation: “There was not a single one of these insects left in the whole land” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

783EXO832sb5lfigs-metaphorוַ⁠יַּכְבֵּ֤ד פַּרְעֹה֙ אֶת־לִבּ֔⁠וֹ1Pharaoh hardened his heart

Pharaohs stubborn attitude is spoken of as if he made his own heart heavy. If the heart is not the body part your culture uses to refer to a persons will, consider using whichever organ your culture would use for this image. See how you translated this in 8:15. Alternate translation: “Pharaoh determined to be defiant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

784EXO9introhqw80

Exodus 09 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Pharaohs hard heart

Pharaohs heart is often described as hard in this chapter. This means that his heart was not open or willing to understand Yahwehs instructions. When his heart was hardened, it became less and less receptive to Yahweh.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Let my people go

This is a very important statement. Moses is not ask Pharaoh to “let go” of the Hebrew people. Instead, he is demanding that Pharaoh free the Hebrew people.

785EXO91se3fwriting-neweventוַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר יְהוָה֙1General Information:

A new scene begins here, which may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. This is the beginning of the fifth plague sequence. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

786EXO9138fofigs-quotemarksאֶל־מֹשֶׁ֔ה1

After this phrase, a direct quote begins that continues to the end of 9:4 and contains two more levels of quotes. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

787EXO910hczfigs-quotemarksאֵלָ֗י⁠ו 1

After this phrase, a second-level direct quote begins which continues to the end of 9:4 and contains one more level of quotes. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening second-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation within a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

788EXO91fo4ofigs-quotesinquotesוְ⁠דִבַּרְתָּ֣ אֵלָ֗י⁠ו כֹּֽה־אָמַ֤ר יְהוָה֙ אֱלֹהֵ֣י הָֽ⁠עִבְרִ֔ים1

You may want to translate the quote beginning with Thus says Yahweh as an indirect quotation in order to reduce the levels of quotations in this passage. Alternative translation: “and say to him that Yahweh, the God of the Hebrews, says” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

789EXO91w0lgכֹּֽה־אָמַ֤ר יְהוָה֙1

This quotation form is used to introduce commands from Yahweh. See 4:intro for more information.

790EXO91x4bdעַמִּ֖⁠י 1

“the Israelites”

791EXO92l7ldfigs-parallelismכִּ֛י אִם־מָאֵ֥ן אַתָּ֖ה לְ⁠שַׁלֵּ֑חַ וְ⁠עוֹדְ⁠ךָ֖ מַחֲזִ֥יק בָּֽ⁠ם1if you refuse to let them go, if you still keep them back

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Alternate translation: “If you continue refusing to let them go” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

792EXO93fltrהִנֵּ֨ה 1

This is used to draw attention to surprising information that follows. Alternate translation: “look out”

793EXO93ume2figs-metonymyיַד־יְהוָ֜ה הוֹיָ֗ה בְּ⁠מִקְנְ⁠ךָ֙1then Yahwehs hand will be on your cattle

Here, hand represents Yahwehs power to afflict their animals with disease. Alternate translation: “Then the power of Yahweh will afflict your livestock” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

794EXO93cjt9figs-123personיַד־יְהוָ֜ה1

This is part of the reported speech that Yahweh wants Moses to say to Pharaoh. Therefore, you could change the third person the hand of Yahweh to first person if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “My hand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

795EXO93tn3zfigs-youdualבְּ⁠מִקְנְ⁠ךָ֙ 1on your cattle

While the word your here is not plural, the next verse shows that it refers to all the people of Egypt who owned cattle. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, you may want to use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

796EXO93v8urfigs-merismבַּ⁠סּוּסִ֤ים בַּֽ⁠חֲמֹרִים֙ בַּ⁠גְּמַלִּ֔ים בַּ⁠בָּקָ֖ר וּ⁠בַ⁠צֹּ֑אן1

This long list is meant to reinforce the universal effects of the coming plague. It is presented in this way for rhetorical effect, that is, to convince Pharaoh of how bad this plague will be so he will obey. You should translate the list in such a way that it is not limiting, but is understood to imply universality. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]]

797EXO932kqcfigs-collectivenounsבַּ⁠בָּקָ֖ר …וּ⁠בַ⁠צֹּ֑אן 1

These (cattle and flock) are collective singular nouns which refer to groups of animals. Alternate translation: “on your bulls and cows and on your sheep and goats” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-collectivenouns]])

798EXO933ud8figs-metaphorכָּבֵ֥ד 1

Here, the plague is spoken of as if it weighed a lot. This means it would be very bad. Alternate translation: “severe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

799EXO94x12rfigs-123personיְהוָ֔ה 1

This is part of the reported speech that Yahweh wants Moses to say to Pharaoh. Therefore you could change the third person Yahweh to first person if it would be clearer in your language. You should do the same as you did in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “I” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

800EXO94c9obfigs-possessionמִקְנֵ֣ה יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל…מִקְנֵ֣ה מִצְרָ֑יִם1

This means the livestock owned by the two groups. Alternate translation: “the livestock that the Israelites own… the livestock that the Egyptians own” or “the livestock belonging to the Israelites ... the livestock belonging to the Egyptians” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

801EXO94lp3tfigs-metonymyיִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל1Israels cattle

Here, Israel refers to the Israelites. Alternate translation: “the Israelite people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

802EXO94u60cfigs-collectivenounsיִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל1

Here, Israel is used as a collective singular noun. If your language would not refer to a group of people in this way, you may need to translate it as plural. Alternate translation: “the Israelite people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-collectivenouns]])

803EXO94fs25figs-metonymyמִקְנֵ֣ה מִצְרָ֑יִם1Egypts cattle

Here, Egypt refers to the Egyptians. Alternate translation: “the livestock of the Egyptian people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

804EXO942310דָּבָֽר1

“animal”

805EXO94xk5dמִ⁠כָּל־לִ⁠בְנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל1

“which belongs to any of the sons of Israel”

806EXO94cbszfigs-quotemarksוְ⁠לֹ֥א יָמ֛וּת מִ⁠כָּל־לִ⁠בְנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל דָּבָֽר1

After this phrase, the three levels of direct quotes of Yahweh ends. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with closing quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of levels of quotations. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

807EXO95vqz2וַ⁠יָּ֥שֶׂם יְהוָ֖ה מוֹעֵ֣ד1fixed a time

“And Yahweh made an appointed time”

808EXO957jofלֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר 1

This marks the beginning of a direct quotation. It can be omitted in translation if your language does not use a similar form. However, in this sentence it is the only verb related to speech, so you may need to translate it similarly to the way the UST does. .

809EXO95dh4hfigs-quotemarksמָחָ֗ר יַעֲשֶׂ֧ה יְהוָ֛ה הַ⁠דָּבָ֥ר הַ⁠זֶּ֖ה בָּ⁠אָֽרֶץ1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

810EXO95pxb1figs-123personיְהוָ֛ה1

Yahweh is speaking here. Therefore you could change the third person Yahweh to first person if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “I, Yahweh,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

811EXO961ztrfigs-explicitוַ⁠יַּ֨עַשׂ יְהוָ֜ה1

It is implied that Moses went and spoke to Pharaoh as directed. You may need to make that explicit in your translation in some languages. Alternate translation: “Moses did as Yahweh had commanded. And Yahweh did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

812EXO96cx5ifigs-hyperboleכֹּ֖ל מִקְנֵ֣ה1All the cattle of Egypt died

This is exaggerated to emphasize the seriousness of the event. There were still some animals alive that were afflicted by later plagues. However, it may be best to translate this with the word “all.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

813EXO96iccgמִקְנֵ֣ה מִצְרָ֑יִם…וּ⁠מִ⁠מִּקְנֵ֥ה בְנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל1

This means the livestock owned by the two groups. Alternate translation: “the livestock that the Egyptians owned … But from the livestock that the Israelites owned” or “the livestock belonging to the Egyptians ... But from the livestock belonging to the Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

814EXO96gy7tfigs-metonymyמִצְרָ֑יִם 1cattle of Egypt

Here, Egypt refers to the Egyptians. Alternate translation: “the Egyptian peoples” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

815EXO966ewafigs-metonymyבְנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל1

Here, sons figuratively means descendants. The phrase speaks of all of the Israelites as descendants of the patriarch Jacob, who was also known as Israel. Alternate translation: “the Israelite peoples” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

816EXO96i0blfigs-litotesוּ⁠מִ⁠מִּקְנֵ֥ה בְנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל לֹא־מֵ֥ת אֶחָֽד1

This emphatic negative statement could be stated positively. Alternate translation: “But every single one of the Israelites livestock lived” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

817EXO97md84וְ⁠הִנֵּ֗ה 1behold

Behold is used to draw attention to surprising information that follows. Alternate translation: “and listen”

818EXO97rtnyfigs-litotesלֹא־מֵ֛ת מִ⁠מִּקְנֵ֥ה יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל עַד־אֶחָ֑ד1

This emphatic negative statement could be stated positively. Alternate translation: “every single one of the Israelites livestock was alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

819EXO97kkucfigs-metonymyיִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל 1

Here, Israel refers to the Israelites. Alternate translation: “of the Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

820EXO97sforfigs-collectivenounsיִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל 1

Here, Israel is a collective singular noun. If your language would not refer to a group of people in this way, you may need to translate it as plural. Alternate translation: “the Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-collectivenouns]])

821EXO97j51jfigs-metaphorוַ⁠יִּכְבַּד֙ לֵ֣ב פַּרְעֹ֔ה1his heart was stubborn

Pharaohs stubborn attitude is spoken of as if his heart were heavy. If the heart is not the body part your culture uses to refer to a persons will, consider using whichever organ your culture would use for this image. This is a neutral statement (it does not say that anyone caused him to be stubborn as many others in this part of the narrative do). See how you translated this in Exodus 7:14. Alternate translation: “But Pharaoh was defiant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

822EXO98brm6writing-neweventוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָה֮ 1kiln

A new scene begins here, which may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. This is the start of the sixth plague scene.(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

823EXO98ik2ifigs-quotemarksאֶל־מֹשֶׁ֣ה וְ⁠אֶֽל־אַהֲרֹן֒1

After this phrase a direct quote begins. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

824EXO98luhgfigs-youdualלָ⁠כֶם֙…חָפְנֵי⁠כֶ֔ם1

You and your refer to both Moses and Aaron. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use dual form (if you have one) or plural forms (if not) here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

825EXO9851opקְח֤וּ לָ⁠כֶם֙ מְלֹ֣א חָפְנֵי⁠כֶ֔ם1

“Each of you fill both your hands with”

826EXO98u5wnפִּ֖יחַ כִּבְשָׁ֑ן1

“ash from a furnace” or “ash produced by a furnace”

827EXO98gk7ffigs-collectivenounsפִּ֖יחַ 1

Here, ash is singular. For some languages you may need to make it plural as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-collectivenouns]])

828EXO98gu1vהַ⁠שָּׁמַ֖יְמָ⁠ה 1

“toward the sky”

829EXO98p795figs-metonymyלְ⁠עֵינֵ֥י פַרְעֹֽה1

This means in his sight. Alternate translation: “in the sight of Pharaoh” or “so Pharaoh sees it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

830EXO99d2v3translate-unknownלִ⁠שְׁחִ֥ין פֹּרֵ֛חַ אֲבַעְבֻּעֹ֖ת1fine

This is a condition where the skin is red and hot, the skin breaks, and blood and puss come out. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

831EXO99jlh0figs-gendernotationsהָ⁠אָדָ֜ם 1

This includes women and children. Alternate translation: “people” or “mankind” or “humans” See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

832EXO99eyc7הַ⁠בְּהֵמָ֗ה1to break out on

“wild and domestic animals” or “wild animals and livestock”

833EXO910wdcnfigs-collectivenounsפִּ֣יחַ 1

Here, ash is singular. For some languages you may need to make it plural as in the UST. See how you translated this in the previous verse. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-collectivenouns]])

834EXO910dp3lפִּ֣יחַ הַ⁠כִּבְשָׁ֗ן1

“ash from a furnace” or “ash produced by a furnace” See how you translated this in the previous verse.

835EXO910ufpnfigs-metonymyוַ⁠יַּֽעַמְדוּ֙ לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֔ה1

Here, before the face of means in Pharaohs presence. Alternate translation: “and stood in Pharaohs presence” See how you translated a similar statement in the previous verse. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

836EXO910xmbwהַ⁠שָּׁמָ֑יְמָ⁠ה 1

“toward the sky” See how you translated this in the previous verse.

837EXO910jhzbtranslate-unknownשְׁחִין֙ אֲבַעְבֻּעֹ֔ת פֹּרֵ֕חַ1

This is a condition where the skin is red and hot, the skin breaks, and blood and puss come out. See how you translated this in the previous verse. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

838EXO9107q2qfigs-gendernotationsבָּ⁠אָדָ֖ם 1

This includes women and children. See how you translated this in the previous verse. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

839EXO910iftmוּ⁠בַ⁠בְּהֵמָֽה1

“and on wild and domestic animals” or “and on wild animals and livestock” See how you translated this in the previous verse.

840EXO911jrc3הַֽ⁠חַרְטֻמִּ֗ים …בַּֽ⁠חֲרְטֻמִּ֖ם 1

See how you translated magicians in 7:11.

841EXO911dxsxfigs-metonymyלַ⁠עֲמֹ֛ד לִ⁠פְנֵ֥י מֹשֶׁ֖ה1

Here, before the face of means in Moses presence. Alternate translation: “to stand in Moses presence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

842EXO911k9uufigs-metaphorמִ⁠פְּנֵ֣י הַ⁠שְּׁחִ֑ין1

Here, the face of means the existence of or perhaps pain from the boils. Alternate translation: “because of the boils” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

843EXO911lpmqtranslate-unknownהַ⁠שְּׁחִ֑ין…הַ⁠שְּׁחִ֔ין 1

This is a condition where the skin is red and hot, the skin breaks, and blood and puss comes out. See how you translated this in 9:9. However, this time only boils is used, without the description (“bursting blisters”) that is in the previous two verses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

844EXO912p5m5figs-metaphorוַ⁠יְחַזֵּ֤ק יְהוָה֙ אֶת־לֵ֣ב פַּרְעֹ֔ה1Yahweh hardened Pharaohs heart

This means God made him stubborn. His stubborn attitude is spoken of as if his heart was strong. If the heart is not the body part your culture uses to refer to a persons will, consider using whichever organ your culture would use for this image. See how you translated this in 4:21. Alternate translation: “But Yahweh caused Pharaoh to be stubborn” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

845EXO913ifs8writing-neweventוַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר יְהוָה֙ אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֔ה1

A new scene begins here, which may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. This is the beginning of the seventh plague sequence. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

846EXO913zsvlfigs-quotemarksוַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר יְהוָה֙ אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֔ה1

After this phrase a direct quote begins that continues until the end of 9:19. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

847EXO913zmrtfigs-metonymyוְ⁠הִתְיַצֵּ֖ב לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֑ה1

Here, before the face of means in Pharaohs presence. Alternate translation: “and stand in Pharaohs presence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

848EXO91356cjfigs-quotationsוְ⁠אָמַרְתָּ֣ אֵלָ֗י⁠ו כֹּֽה־אָמַ֤ר יְהוָה֙ אֱלֹהֵ֣י הָֽ⁠עִבְרִ֔ים1

After and say to him, a second-level quote begins which continues until the end of 9:19. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening second-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation within a quotation. However, it may be useful to translate this short quote frame as an indirect quotation as the UST does. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

849EXO9139ha6כֹּֽה־אָמַ֤ר יְהוָה֙1

This quotation form is used to introduce commands from Yahweh. See 4:intro for more information.

850EXO913zi15figs-quotemarksשַׁלַּ֥ח 1

Let is the first word of a third-level direct quote which continues until the end of 9:19. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening third-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a third-level quotation. If you chose to make the second level an indirect quote, this may only be a second-level quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

851EXO914z68bgrammar-connect-logic-resultכִּ֣י1

Here, For means something like “I am warning you that unless you do this.” Alternate translation: “Otherwise,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

852EXO914n6wqfigs-synecdocheאֲנִ֨י שֹׁלֵ֜חַ אֶת־כָּל־מַגֵּפֹתַ⁠י֙ אֶֽל־לִבְּ⁠ךָ֔1on you yourself

Here, to your heart is a synecdoche that means that even Pharaoh will be hurt by the plagues. Alternate translation: “I am about to send all my plagues against you personally” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

853EXO9159m72grammar-connect-condition-contraryכִּ֤י עַתָּה֙ שָׁלַ֣חְתִּי אֶת־יָדִ֔⁠י וָ⁠אַ֥ךְ אוֹתְ⁠ךָ֛ וְ⁠אֶֽת־עַמְּ⁠ךָ֖ בַּ⁠דָּ֑בֶר וַ⁠תִּכָּחֵ֖ד מִן־הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ1

This verse presents two things that God could have done but did not do to the Egyptians. This is to set up the reason he gives in the next verse. Be sure that it is clear in your translation that these are hypothetical past events. See the note regarding Yahwehs stated goals in the next verse. Some languages may need to reverse the order of these verses to put Yahwehs goals before his non-action. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary]])

854EXO915a3l8figs-metonymyשָׁלַ֣חְתִּי אֶת־יָדִ֔⁠י וָ⁠אַ֥ךְ אוֹתְ⁠ךָ֛1reached out with my hand and attacked you

Here, my hand refers to Gods power. Alternate translation: “I could have used my power to attack you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

855EXO915hgfxfigs-metaphorוָ⁠אַ֥ךְ אוֹתְ⁠ךָ֛ וְ⁠אֶֽת־עַמְּ⁠ךָ֖ בַּ⁠דָּ֑בֶר1

Here, a plague is spoken about as if it were something that could be used to hit someone. Alternate translation: “and caused you and your people to suffer from a plague” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

856EXO9167mjzgrammar-connect-logic-goalוְ⁠אוּלָ֗ם בַּ⁠עֲב֥וּר זֹאת֙ הֶעֱמַדְתִּ֔י⁠ךָ בַּ⁠עֲב֖וּר הַרְאֹתְ⁠ךָ֣ אֶת־כֹּחִ֑⁠י וּ⁠לְמַ֛עַן סַפֵּ֥ר שְׁמִ֖⁠י בְּ⁠כָל־הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ׃1

The statements from to show to the end of the verse are Yahwehs stated goals, and thus, his reasons for not yet destroying Egypt and Pharaoh. You will need to translate, However, for this reason I appointed you: in order in a way that connects with the previous verse in an action-goal manner. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])

857EXO916nec7figs-metonymyוּ⁠לְמַ֛עַן סַפֵּ֥ר שְׁמִ֖⁠י בְּ⁠כָל־הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ1so that my name may be proclaimed throughout all the earth

Here, my name represents Yahwehs reputation. Alternate translation: “and so that people everywhere will know who I am” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

858EXO917h3edfigs-metaphorעוֹדְ⁠ךָ֖ מִסְתּוֹלֵ֣ל בְּ⁠עַמִּ֑⁠י1lifting yourself up against my people

Pharaohs opposition to letting the Israelites go to worship Yahweh is spoken of as if he were raising himself up as a barrier to them. Alternate translation: “You are still blocking my people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

859EXO917sdavfigs-rpronouns מִסְתּוֹלֵ֣ל 1

Here, Pharaoh fills two different roles in the sentence. Different languages have different methods of marking this. Translate this in a way that conveys that Pharaoh is making Pharaoh (himself) proud (metaphorically expressed as Pharaoh making Pharaoh (himself) the obstacle in the Israelites way to freedom as discussed in the previous note.) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

860EXO917r1wv מִסְתּוֹלֵ֣ל 1

Here, you is Pharaoh.

861EXO917zfhbבְּ⁠עַמִּ֑⁠י 1

Here, my people are the Israelites.

862EXO918fnd2הִנְ⁠נִ֤י 1Listen!

“Pay attention to the important thing I am about to tell you”

863EXO918716vכָּ⁠עֵ֣ת…אֲשֶׁ֨ר לֹא־הָיָ֤ה כָמֹ֨⁠הוּ֙1

“at this time. There has never been anything like this”

864EXO9195h0ufigs-metonymyשְׁלַ֤ח הָעֵז֙ אֶֽת־מִקְנְ⁠ךָ֔ וְ⁠אֵ֛ת כָּל־אֲשֶׁ֥ר לְ⁠ךָ֖ בַּ⁠שָּׂדֶ֑ה1

The form of address here is singular; Moses is speaking directly to Pharaoh. However, the next two verses make it clear that Pharaohs servants heard and understood this warning to be for them as well. In this sense Pharaoh represents the Egyptians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

865EXO919eo52וְ⁠יָרַ֧ד עֲלֵ⁠הֶ֛ם הַ⁠בָּרָ֖ד 1

“the hail will come down on”

866EXO9194329figs-gendernotationsכָּל־הָ⁠אָדָ֨ם1

Here, man means humans and includes men, women, and children. Alternate translation: “everyone” or “anyone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

867EXO919itlvוְ⁠הַ⁠בְּהֵמָ֜ה 1

This includes domestic and wild animals.

868EXO919f80efigs-explicitוָ⁠מֵֽתוּ1

The people and animals will die because they are hurt fatally by the hail. You may need to make this explicit. Alternate translation: “and the hail will kill them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

869EXO9195z5dfigs-quotemarksוָ⁠מֵֽתוּ1

Up to three levels of direct quotation (depending on your earlier decision about converting a level to an indirect quotation) end at the end of this verse. You should indicate that ending here with closing first-level, second-level, and third-level (if required) quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of quotations within quotations. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

870EXO920dp8jfigs-explicitהַ⁠יָּרֵא֙ 1

As in some other occasions, Moses conversation with Pharaoh is not recorded. You may need to make explicit the fact that he did as Yahweh instructed. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

871EXO920p3nzהַ⁠יָּרֵא֙ אֶת־דְּבַ֣ר יְהוָ֔ה מֵֽ⁠עַבְדֵ֖י פַּרְעֹ֑ה1

“Those of Pharaohs servants who feared Yahwehs warning”

872EXO9216gcxוַ⁠אֲשֶׁ֥ר לֹא־שָׂ֛ם לִבּ֖⁠וֹ אֶל1

Here, set his heart means he believed or thought something was true. If the heart is not the body part your culture uses to refer to a persons will, consider using whichever organ your culture would use for this image. Alternate translation: “but whoever did not respect” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

873EXO922vtflwriting-neweventוַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר יְהוָ֜ה1

A minor scene shift occurs here and may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

874EXO922zwvkיָֽדְ⁠ךָ֙1

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

875EXO922h9crfigs-gendernotationsהָ⁠אָדָ֣ם1

This includes women and children. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

876EXO922r0g4הַ⁠בְּהֵמָ֗ה 1

This includes domestic and wild animals.

877EXO9237538מַטֵּ⁠הוּ֮1

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

878EXO925vnpjfigs-merismמֵ⁠אָדָ֖ם וְ⁠עַד־בְּהֵמָ֑ה1

This is a figure of speech used to emphasize the extent and severity of the hail. Alternate translation: “every living thing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

879EXO925ft0ofigs-gendernotationsמֵ⁠אָדָ֖ם1

This includes women and children. Alternate translation: “from people” or “from mankind” or “from humans” See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

880EXO925apblבְּהֵמָ֑ה1

This includes domestic and wild animals.

881EXO927fu9cwriting-neweventוַ⁠יִּשְׁלַ֣ח פַּרְעֹ֗ה1to summon

A minor scene shift occurs here and may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

882EXO927sh1xחָטָ֣אתִי 1

Some commentators suggest translating sinned more literally, that is “missed the mark,” because Pharaoh is probably not admitting a moral failure, but instead, admitting that he misjudged.

883EXO927joxyהַ⁠צַּדִּ֔יק…הָ⁠רְשָׁעִֽים1

Many commentators suggest that Pharaoh is using these terms in a narrow, legal sense and only referring to this instance. That is, he is saying something like “Ive lost this round in court.” See UST.

884EXO9276p2iוְ⁠עַמִּ֖⁠י1

My people refers to the Egyptians.

885EXO928r0csfigs-litotesוְ⁠לֹ֥א תֹסִפ֖וּ⁠ן לַ⁠עֲמֹֽד1

This negative statement strengthens the force of Pharaohs statement that he will let the people go. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

886EXO929ajz3וַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר אֵלָי⁠ו֙ מֹשֶׁ֔ה1Moses said to him

“And Moses said to Pharaoh”

887EXO929b787translate-symactionאֶפְרֹ֥שׂ אֶת־כַּפַּ֖⁠י אֶל־יְהוָ֑ה1spread my hands out to Yahweh

This symbolic gesture accompanies prayer. Alternate translation: “I will pray to Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

888EXO930tn94grammar-connect-condition-contrary וְ⁠אַתָּ֖ה וַ⁠עֲבָדֶ֑י⁠ךָ1honor Yahweh God

This phrase is shifted to the beginning of the sentence to mark focus on Pharaoh and his servants because, despite Yahweh demonstrating his power, they are not yet afraid of him. If your language has a form or discourse feature that draws contrastive focus to participants, use it here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary]])

889EXO930srx4figs-metonymyמִ⁠פְּנֵ֖י יְהוָ֥ה1

Here, face means presence or power. Alternate translation: “of Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

890EXO931p1v8translate-unknownוְ⁠הַ⁠פִּשְׁתָּ֥ה…וְ⁠הַ⁠פִּשְׁתָּ֖ה1flax

Flax is a plant that produces fibers that can be made into linen cloth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

891EXO931lzartranslate-unknownאָבִ֔יב 1

This means the seeds at the top of the stalk were developing but still green. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

892EXO9319xjcגִּבְעֹֽל1

“was flowering”

893EXO932jmq3translate-unknownוְ⁠הַ⁠כֻּסֶּ֖מֶת 1spelt

Spelt is a kind of wheat. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

894EXO933fa2jtranslate-symactionוַ⁠יִּפְרֹ֥שׂ כַּפָּ֖י⁠ו אֶל־יְהוָ֑ה1spread out his hands to Yahweh

This symbolic gesture accompanies prayer. See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 9:29. Alternate translation: “lifted up his hands toward Yahweh and prayed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

895EXO934ke5kfigs-metaphorוַ⁠יַּכְבֵּ֥ד לִבּ֖⁠וֹ1hardened his heart

Pharaohs stubborn attitude is spoken of as if he made his own heart heavy. This time his servants do the same. If the heart is not the body part your culture uses to refer to a persons will, consider using whichever organ your culture would use for this image. See how you translated this in 8:15. Alternate translation: “Pharaoh determined to be defiant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

896EXO934nz0eוַ⁠יֹּ֣סֶף לַ⁠חֲטֹ֑א1

This statement is from the authors perspective. Therefore, unlike in 9:27, sin should be translated with the word your language uses for “sin.”

897EXO934ooedוַ⁠יַּכְבֵּ֥ד לִבּ֖⁠וֹ ה֥וּא וַ⁠עֲבָדָֽי⁠ו1

“and he caused his heart to be heavy. His servants did also” or “and he caused his heart to be heavy. His servants did the same”

898EXO935yxt8figs-metaphorוַֽ⁠יֶּחֱזַק֙ לֵ֣ב פַּרְעֹ֔ה1The heart of Pharaoh was hardened

Pharaohs stubborn attitude is spoken of as if his heart were strong. If the heart is not the body part your culture uses to refer to a persons will, consider using whichever organ your culture would use for this image. See how you translated this in Exodus 7:13. This is a neutral statement (it does not say that anyone caused him to be stubborn as many others in this part of the narrative do). Alternate translation: “Pharaoh was still defiant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

899EXO9356cbhfigs-metaphorכַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֛ר דִּבֶּ֥ר יְהוָ֖ה בְּ⁠יַד־מֹשֶֽׁה1

This is similar to 9:12. In this case, what Yahweh said is figuratively spoken of as if it were something that could be held in someones hand. This means that Moses delivered a message from Yahweh that Pharaoh would be stubborn. It is not clear if this message was given to the Israelites or if this refers to Moses statement to Pharaoh in 9:30. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

900EXO10intros5g10

Exodus 10 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Pharaohs hard heart

Pharaohs heart is often described as hard in this chapter. This means that his heart was not open or willing to understand Yahwehs instructions. When his heart was hardened, it became less and less receptive to Yahweh.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Let my people go

This is a very important statement. Moses does not ask Pharaoh to “let go” of the Hebrew people. Instead, he demands that Pharaoh free the Hebrew people.

901EXO101w4pwfigs-metaphorכִּֽי־אֲנִ֞י הִכְבַּ֤דְתִּי אֶת־לִבּ⁠וֹ֙ וְ⁠אֶת־לֵ֣ב עֲבָדָ֔י⁠ו1for I have hardened his heart and the hearts of his servants

This means God made Pharaoh and his servants stubborn. Their stubborn attitude is spoken of as if their hearts were heavy. If the heart is not the body part your culture uses to refer to a persons will, consider using whichever organ your culture would use for this image. See how you translated this in 4:21, but note that the metaphor is slightly different here. Alternate translation: “for I have caused Pharaoh and his servants to be stubborn” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

902EXO102zg4cהִתְעַלַּ֨לְתִּי֙ בְּ⁠מִצְרַ֔יִם 1various signs

“I mocked Egypt”

903EXO1032614וַ⁠יֹּאמְר֣וּ אֵלָ֗י⁠ו1

After this phrase, a direct quote begins that continues until near the end of 10:6. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

904EXO1034b3aוַ⁠יֹּאמְר֣וּ אֵלָ֗י⁠ו כֹּֽה־אָמַ֤ר יְהוָה֙ אֱלֹהֵ֣י הָֽ⁠עִבְרִ֔ים1

It may be helpful to turn the introductory quotation into an indirect quotation so that you do not have to use quotes within quotes. Alternate translation: “and told him that Yahweh, the God of the Hebrews, said thus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

905EXO103vze4כֹּֽה־אָמַ֤ר יְהוָה֙1

This quotation form is used to introduce commands from Yahweh. See 4:intro for more information.

906EXO103cicffigs-metonymyעַד־מָתַ֣י מֵאַ֔נְתָּ לֵ⁠עָנֹ֖ת מִ⁠פָּנָ֑⁠י1

Here, face figuratively represents the presence of Yahweh. Particularly, it means the presence of his judgment (the plagues). Alternate translation: “Until when will you refuse to be humble when I judge you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

907EXO104ge67הִנְ⁠נִ֨י1listen

Behold me adds emphasis to what is said next. Alternate translation: “beware”

908EXO104uwtpfigs-collectivenounsאַרְבֶּ֖ה1

Locust is a singular noun referring to the group as one. Alternate translation: “locusts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-collectivenouns]])

909EXO105zu5rfigs-parallelismוְ⁠כִסָּה֙ אֶת־עֵ֣ין הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ וְ⁠לֹ֥א יוּכַ֖ל לִ⁠רְאֹ֣ת אֶת־הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ1hail

These parallel statements have a similar meaning. They are used to emphasize the great number of locusts that are coming. In some languages this will not have the same rhetorical effect, and you will need to use another device to emphasize the statement. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

910EXO105rdavוְ⁠כִסָּה֙ אֶת־עֵ֣ין הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ1

“And it will cover the land from sight”

911EXO105oj3ifigs-collectivenounsוְ⁠כִסָּה֙…וְ⁠אָכַ֣ל…וְ⁠אָכַל֙ 1

Here the pronoun it agrees in number with the collective singular “locust” in the previous verse. Insects are often referred to without gender in English, but you will need to use whatever number, gender, and/or noun class is required in your language to agree with the word for “locust” that you used in the previous verse. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-collectivenouns]])

912EXO106ir5lfigs-hyperboleעַל־הָ֣⁠אֲדָמָ֔ה1nothing ever seen

This could either mean on the earth (planet) or “on the land” (Egypt). Either way, it is meant to emphasize an extremely long time, meaning never. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

913EXO1064mnofigs-explicitוַ⁠יִּ֥פֶן 1

Verse 3 says that Aaron came in to see the king with Moses. It is implied that he left with him as well. You may make this explicit if it would help your readers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

914EXO107xn8jfigs-rquestionעַד־מָתַי֙ יִהְיֶ֨ה זֶ֥ה לָ֨⁠נוּ֙ לְ⁠מוֹקֵ֔שׁ1How long will this man be a menace to us?

Pharaohs servants ask this question to show Pharaoh that he is stubbornly causing the destruction of Egypt. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “We cannot allow this man to continue to bring trouble to us!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

915EXO107jqbhfigs-gendernotationsהָ֣⁠אֲנָשִׁ֔ים1

Here, men may be literal or it may refer to the Israelites, including the women and children. In verse 10 the king rejects the idea of letting the women and children go, and in verse 11 he specifically says that the men can go. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

916EXO107xdm5figs-rquestionהֲ⁠טֶ֣רֶם תֵּדַ֔ע כִּ֥י אָבְדָ֖ה מִצְרָֽיִם1Do you not yet realize that Egypt is destroyed?

Pharaohs servants ask this question to bring Pharaoh to recognize what he refuses to see. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should realize that Egypt is destroyed!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

917EXO107c6prfigs-activepassiveכִּ֥י אָבְדָ֖ה מִצְרָֽיִם1that Egypt is destroyed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that these plagues have destroyed Egypt” or “that their God has destroyed Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

918EXO1088ukgfigs-activepassiveוַ⁠יּוּשַׁ֞ב אֶת־מֹשֶׁ֤ה וְ⁠אֶֽת־אַהֲרֹן֙ אֶל־פַּרְעֹ֔ה1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “And a servant brought Moses and Aaron back to Pharaoh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

919EXO1086733מִ֥י וָ⁠מִ֖י1

“Who all”

920EXO109fnnlfigs-exclusiveנֵלֵ֑ךְ…נֵלֵ֔ךְ1

We means the Israelites and does not include Pharaoh or the Egyptians. Use an exclusive form here if your language has this distinction. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

921EXO1010hjc9יְהִ֨י כֵ֤ן יְהוָה֙ עִמָּ⁠כֶ֔ם כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֛ר אֲשַׁלַּ֥ח אֶתְ⁠כֶ֖ם וְ⁠אֶֽת־טַפְּ⁠כֶ֑ם1if I ever let you go and your little ones go

May Yahweh be with you is usually a blessing but is almost certainly not here. It likely means something like “It will take Yahwehs power to make me let you and your children go,” or “May Yahweh be as favorable to you as I am to the idea of letting your children go.” Pharaoh is saying that it will take Yahweh to make him do what Moses wants, but he does not think that will happen. Alternate translation: “It will be clear that Yahweh is with you if I let you and your children go”

922EXO1010w8x4רְא֕וּ כִּ֥י רָעָ֖ה נֶ֥גֶד פְּנֵי⁠כֶֽם1

The phrase for evil is before your faces could either be a warning from Pharaoh that Moses actions will lead to evil for the Israelites, or it could mean that Pharaoh thinks the Israelites plan something that he considers evil. Faces is a metonym for the whole person. Alternate translations: “I see that you plan evil” or “Be careful! Your actions will have bad consequences” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

923EXO1011pkm4הַ⁠גְּבָרִים֙1Then Moses and Aaron were driven out from Pharaohs presence

This interjection clarifies who may go. Alternate translation: “the leaders”

924EXO1011vdjkfigs-metonymyמֵ⁠אֵ֖ת פְּנֵ֥י פַרְעֹֽה1

Here, face figuratively represents the presence of Pharaoh. Alternate translation: “from his presence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

925EXO1012kchnwriting-neweventוַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר יְהוָ֜ה1

There is a minor scene change here, which may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

926EXO10127fa6יָדְ⁠ךָ֜1

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

927EXO1012qikqfigs-collectivenounsבָּֽ⁠אַרְבֶּ֔ה1

Locust is a singular noun referring to the group as one. See how you translated this in 10:4. Alternate translation: “locusts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-collectivenouns]])

928EXO1012gzwafigs-collectivenounsוְ⁠יַ֖עַל …וְ⁠יֹאכַל֙ 1

Here, the pronoun it agrees in number with the collective singular “locust.” See how you translated this in 10:5 (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-collectivenouns]])

929EXO1013xqszמַטֵּ⁠הוּ֮ 1

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

930EXO1013vee8ר֥וּחַ קָדִים֙1

The wind blew from east to west.

931EXO101385bffigs-collectivenounsהָ⁠אַרְבֶּֽה1

See how you translated this in 10:4. Alternate translation: “locusts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-collectivenouns]])

932EXO1014kuuufigs-collectivenounsהָֽ⁠אַרְבֶּ֗ה …אַרְבֶּה֙ 1

See how you translated this in 10:4. Alternate translation: “locusts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-collectivenouns]])

933EXO1015b3h5figs-collectivenounsוַ⁠יְכַ֞ס …וַ⁠יֹּ֜אכַל 1so that it was darkened

Here the pronoun it agrees in number with the collective singular “locust.” See how you translated this in 10:5 (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-collectivenouns]])

934EXO10152eo5וַ⁠יְכַ֞ס אֶת־עֵ֣ין כָּל־הָ⁠אָרֶץ֮1

See how you translated this in 10:5.

935EXO1015ill1figs-parallelismוַ⁠יֹּ֜אכַל אֶת־כָּל־עֵ֣שֶׂב הָ⁠אָ֗רֶץ וְ⁠אֵת֙ כָּל־פְּרִ֣י הָ⁠עֵ֔ץ אֲשֶׁ֥ר הוֹתִ֖יר הַ⁠בָּרָ֑ד וְ⁠לֹא־נוֹתַ֨ר כָּל־יֶ֧רֶק בָּ⁠עֵ֛ץ וּ⁠בְ⁠עֵ֥שֶׂב הַ⁠שָּׂדֶ֖ה בְּ⁠כָל־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם1

These parallel statements reinforce one another. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

936EXO1016ty9ffigs-youdualאֱלֹֽהֵי⁠כֶ֖ם וְ⁠לָ⁠כֶֽם1

Here, you and your are plural. These could refer either to Moses and Aaron or to all the Israelites. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

937EXO1017953eשָׂ֣א 1

“take away”

938EXO1017ttogאַ֣ךְ הַ⁠פַּ֔עַם…רַ֖ק 1

Pharaoh could either be desperate and using just this once ... only to attempt to make his request as small as possible to increase the chances of it being granted, or he could be still too proud to admit guilt beyond this single incident (which is probably his bold statement about Yahweh being with the Israelites in 10:10). The former seems more likely given that he terms this plague “this death.” If your culture has a way of making a request seem as small as possible, you may want to use it to translate Pharaohs request.

939EXO1017kd6dfigs-youdualאֱלֹהֵי⁠כֶ֑ם1this time

Here, your is plural. This could refer either to Moses and Aaron or to all the Israelites. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

940EXO1017doegfigs-metonymyהַ⁠מָּ֥וֶת הַ⁠זֶּֽה1

The word death here refers to the destruction by the locusts of all plants in Egypt, which would eventually lead to the deaths of people, because there would be no crops. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

941EXO1017nn2bfigs-explicitהַ⁠מָּ֥וֶת הַ⁠זֶּֽה1take this death away from me

The word death here refers to the destruction by the locusts of all plants in Egypt, which would eventually lead to the deaths of people because there would be no crops. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “this destruction that will lead to our deaths” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

942EXO1018p9hzוַ⁠יֵּצֵ֖א 1

Moses and Aaron were summoned to the king in 10:16 so some translations will need to say that they both left.

943EXO1019xhsvרֽוּחַ־יָם֙ חָזָ֣ק מְאֹ֔ד 1

“a very strong west wind” or “a very strong wind from the west”

944EXO1019mdp5וַ⁠יִּשָּׂא֙ אֶת־הָ֣⁠אַרְבֶּ֔ה1picked up the locusts

“and it moved the locusts upwards”

945EXO10192cpbfigs-collectivenounsהָ֣⁠אַרְבֶּ֔ה …אַרְבֶּ֣ה 1

See how you translated this in 10:4. Alternate translation: “the locusts … of the locusts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-collectivenouns]])

946EXO1019q8ajfigs-collectivenounsוַ⁠יִּתְקָעֵ֖⁠הוּ 1

Here, the first it refers to the wind, the second agrees in number with the collective singular “locust.” See how you translated this in 10:5 (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-collectivenouns]]

947EXO1020dw1dfigs-metaphorוַ⁠יְחַזֵּ֥ק יְהוָ֖ה אֶת־לֵ֣ב פַּרְעֹ֑ה1Yahweh hardened Pharaohs heart

This means God made him stubborn. His stubborn attitude is spoken of as if his heart were strong. If heart is not the body part your culture uses to refer to a persons will, consider using whichever organ your culture would use for this image. See how you translated this in 4:21. Alternate translation: “But Yahweh caused Pharaoh to be stubborn” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

948EXO1021x6xkwriting-neweventוַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר יְהוָ֜ה1

A new scene begins here, which may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. This is the start of the third plague sequence. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

949EXO1021utyzיָֽדְ⁠ךָ֙ 1

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

950EXO1021m38sfigs-metaphorמִצְרָ֑יִם וְ⁠יָמֵ֖שׁ חֹֽשֶׁךְ1darkness that may be felt

This is a somewhat puzzling construction which describes the darkness. Most English translations take it as a passive, which restated actively means, “people will feel the darkness,” meaning metaphorically what is expressed in different ways in the UST and the alternate translation here. Another option is to view the Hebrew verb form as causative and translate as such: “and the darkness will cause people to feel,” meaning people will have to feel where they are going because they will not be able to see. A final option would be a personification of darkness such that the darkness gropes around, filling in every place in the land. Alternate translation: “Egypt — an extremely oppressive darkness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

951EXO1022z4geיָד֖⁠וֹ 1

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

952EXO1022vbzjtranslate-numbersשְׁלֹ֥שֶׁת 1

“for 3” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

953EXO10232cqxfigs-metonymyלֹֽא־רָא֞וּ אִ֣ישׁ אֶת־אָחִ֗י⁠ו1

This phrase means that people could not see the people who lived closest to them, whether or not that person was literally their brother. Alternate translation: “No one could see the people who lived with them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

954EXO10237ud1figs-gendernotationsאִ֣ישׁ …אִ֥ישׁ 1

Here, man refers to any human in general. Alternate translation: “person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

955EXO1023qstutranslate-numbersשְׁלֹ֣שֶׁת 1

“for 3” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

956EXO10244jkpfigs-quotemarks לְכוּ֙ עִבְד֣וּ אֶת־יְהוָ֔ה רַ֛ק צֹאנְ⁠כֶ֥ם וּ⁠בְקַרְ⁠כֶ֖ם יֻצָּ֑ג גַּֽם־טַפְּ⁠כֶ֖ם יֵלֵ֥ךְ עִמָּ⁠כֶֽם1

This is a direct quote of what the king said. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

957EXO1024vp7bfigs-youdual לְכוּ֙ עִבְד֣וּ … צֹאנְ⁠כֶ֥ם וּ⁠בְקַרְ⁠כֶ֖ם …טַפְּ⁠כֶ֖ם …עִמָּ⁠כֶֽם1

Every instance of you and your, as well as the imperative verb forms in this verse, are plural. They refer to the Israelites. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

958EXO1025hnt5figs-quotemarksוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר מֹשֶׁ֔ה1

After this phrase, a direct quote begins that continues until the end of 10:26. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

959EXO1025rsr4figs-metonymyגַּם־אַתָּ֛ה תִּתֵּ֥ן בְּ⁠יָדֵ֖⁠נוּ זְבָחִ֣ים וְ⁠עֹל֑וֹת1

The construction here is difficult. Based on context, Moses is probably not saying that Pharaoh needs to provide his own animals to the Israelites. He is asking Pharaoh to let the Israelites take their own animals. Give in our hands means to take with them, by whatever means, which may include holding a rope in the hand to lead the animals or any other means of herding the animals. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

960EXO1025cj78figs-metonymyזְבָחִ֣ים וְ⁠עֹל֑וֹת1

Here, sacrifices and burnt offerings refers to the animals of their flocks and herds that they must take. Alternate translation: “animals for sacrifices and burnt offerings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

961EXO1025bjy0וְ⁠עָשִׂ֖ינוּ לַ⁠יהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֵֽי⁠נוּ1

Here, do means “do the sacrifices and burnt offerings.” Alternate translation: “and we will make those sacrifices and burnt offerings to Yahweh our God”

962EXO10257gzrfigs-exclusiveבְּ⁠יָדֵ֖⁠נוּ …וְ⁠עָשִׂ֖ינוּ …אֱלֹהֵֽי⁠נוּ1

Here, we and us refers to the Israelites (same group as the speakers) while excluding Pharaoh and the Egyptians (listeners group). If your language distinguishes between forms of we and us based on who is included, be sure to use the one appropriate to the described group. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

963EXO1026k0pifigs-exclusiveמִקְנֵ֜⁠נוּ …עִמָּ֗⁠נוּ …נִקַּ֔ח …אֱלֹהֵ֑י⁠נוּ וַ⁠אֲנַ֣חְנוּ …נֵדַ֗ע …נַּעֲבֹד֙ …בֹּאֵ֖⁠נוּ 1

Here, we, our, and us each refers to the Israelites (same group as the speakers) while excluding Pharaoh and the Egyptians (listeners group). If your language distinguishes between forms of we, our, and us based on who is included, be sure to use the one appropriate to the described group. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

964EXO1026ys4vfigs-activepassiveלֹ֤א תִשָּׁאֵר֙ פַּרְסָ֔ה1

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “We cannot leave behind a single animal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

965EXO1026v9ucfigs-synecdocheפַּרְסָ֔ה1a hoof

Here the word hoof refers to the entire animal. Alternate translation: “a single animal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

966EXO1026uiomשָֽׁמָּ⁠ה1

The destination is unspecified. Previous context suggests it would be at the mountain of God (see 3:1, especially 3:12, and 4:27) which would take three days to travel to (see 3:18 and 5:3).

967EXO1027n588figs-metaphorוַ⁠יְחַזֵּ֥ק יְהוָ֖ה אֶת־לֵ֣ב פַּרְעֹ֑ה1Yahweh hardened Pharaohs heart

This means God made him stubborn. His stubborn attitude is spoken of as if his heart were strong. If heart is not the body part your culture uses to refer to a persons will, consider using whichever organ your culture would use for this image. See how you translated this in 4:21. Alternate translation: “But Yahweh caused Pharaoh to be stubborn” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

968EXO1027mv8tוְ⁠לֹ֥א אָבָ֖ה לְ⁠שַׁלְּחָֽ⁠ם1he would not let them go

“and Pharaoh would not consent to let them go”

969EXO10284d1yfigs-rpronounsהִשָּׁ֣מֶר לְ⁠ךָ֗1

Here, the listener, Moses, fills two different roles in the sentence. He is the person told to look (subject) and he himself is what he is told to look at (object). Different languages have different methods of marking this. Alternate translation: “You watch yourself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

970EXO1028lcz2figs-explicitתָּמֽוּת1Be careful about one thing

Pharaoh means he will have Moses killed. You may choose to make this explicit as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

971EXO1028te45figs-synecdocheפָּנַ֔⁠י …פָנַ֖⁠י1you see my face

Here, face refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: see UST (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

972EXO1029h1jffigs-idiomכֵּ֣ן דִּבַּ֑רְתָּ1You yourself have spoken

With these words, Moses emphasizes that Pharaoh has spoken the truth. Alternate translation: “What you have said is true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

973EXO1029rg18figs-synecdocheפָּנֶֽי⁠ךָ1

Here, face refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: “you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

974EXO11intropu3u0

Exodus 11 General Notes

Chapter 11 is a transition point in the book. The previous nine plagues (in their three sequences of three) have come to an end and the last plague, the death of the firstborn, is about to occur, along with the Passover and the Exodus itself. It is difficult to know if the events in chapter 11 all are recorded in the order in which they happened. For translation, you should follow the order of the text if it will not confuse your readers.

It may be helpful to think that after the end of chapter 10, Yahweh spoke to Moses immediately, before he actually left Pharaohs presence (v. 1-2). Verse 3 is a comment suggesting that the Egyptians will be willing to do as the Israelites are told to ask them to do in v. 2. In verses 4-7 Moses gives Pharaoh and his officials a message from Yahweh that Yahweh is giving to Moses right at that moment. At the end of v. 8 Moses leaves Pharaohs presence (completing the interaction from the end of ch. 10). Verse 9 may either be Yahweh telling Moses what is going to happen, or it could be part of the summary that occurs in v. 10. Verse 10 summarizes what has happened in chs. 5-10 (especially the plagues in chs. 7-10) in preparation for the great last plague.

Special concepts in this chapter

Pharaohs hard heart

Pharaohs heart is often described as hard in this chapter. This means that his heart was not open or willing to understand Yahwehs instructions. When his heart was hardened, it became less and less receptive to Yahweh.

Let my people go

In the previous chapters, Moses did not ask Pharaohs permission for the Hebrew people to leave. Instead, he demanded that Pharaoh free the Hebrew people. In this chapter, the same wording is used to refer to Pharaoh “allowing” the Hebrew people to leave Egypt.

975EXO1116qgcfigs-quotemarksאֶל־מֹשֶׁ֗ה1

After this phrase, a direct quote begins that continues until the end of 11:2. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

976EXO1115kttgrammar-connect-time-sequentialכְּ⁠שַׁ֨לְּח֔⁠וֹ…יְגָרֵ֥שׁ 1

These verbs (lets go and drive away) are meant to immediately follow one another. When you translate, make sure they are almost simultaneous in time; the letting go happens and then immediately the driving away happens. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])

977EXO111iocdכָּלָ֕ה גָּרֵ֛שׁ יְגָרֵ֥שׁ1

The wording here is very forceful. Use strong words, forms, or phrasing when you are translating.

978EXO111i87hfigs-youdualאֶתְ⁠כֶ֖ם…אֶתְ⁠כֶ֖ם1he will let you go from here

Each occurrence of the word you in this verse is plural and refers to Moses and the rest of the Israelites. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

979EXO1122s6afigs-asideדַּבֶּר־נָ֖א בְּ⁠אָזְנֵ֣י הָ⁠עָ֑ם וְ⁠יִשְׁאֲל֞וּ אִ֣ישׁ׀ מֵ⁠אֵ֣ת רֵעֵ֗⁠הוּ וְ⁠אִשָּׁה֙ מֵ⁠אֵ֣ת רְעוּתָ֔⁠הּ כְּלֵי־כֶ֖סֶף וּ⁠כְלֵ֥י זָהָֽב1

In this verse the author interjects a comment about the situation. Some translations choose to put the verse in parenthesis to indicate this. You may mark it in a way that is natural to your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-aside]])

980EXO112t14cנָ֖א1

Here, now conveys urgency, indicating that Moses should speak soon, without delaying for other things. If you have a way of giving a command that shows that it is important for someone to do it quickly, it would be better to translate in that way than in a way that means “now” in a time sense (versus earlier or later).

981EXO112nlskבְּ⁠אָזְנֵ֣י הָ⁠עָ֑ם1

“so the people hear you” or “when all the people are listening”

982EXO1120w6rכְּלֵי־כֶ֖סֶף וּ⁠כְלֵ֥י זָהָֽב1

These could be any sort of thing made from silver or gold (for instance: utensils, cups, pitchers, plates, candleholders), not just jewelry.

983EXO1124l0aוְ⁠יִשְׁאֲל֞וּ אִ֣ישׁ׀ מֵ⁠אֵ֣ת רֵעֵ֗⁠הוּ וְ⁠אִשָּׁה֙ מֵ⁠אֵ֣ת רְעוּתָ֔⁠הּ כְּלֵי־כֶ֖סֶף וּ⁠כְלֵ֥י זָהָֽב1

Exodus 3:22 contains similar instructions; see how you translated there.

984EXO112jyqafigs-quotemarksזָהָֽב1

At the end of this verse, the direct quote of Yahweh that started in the previous verse ends. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with a closing first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

985EXO113hng9figs-idiomחֵ֥ן הָ⁠עָ֖ם בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֣י מִצְרָ֑יִם1

Here, in the eyes of the Egyptians is an idiom for the Egyptians feelings or opinion. Favor means those feelings are positive. Taken together, this means that when the Egyptians see the Israelites leaving Egypt, they will gladly help them. (Because the Egyptians have suffered under Gods judgment, the Egyptians want so badly to see them leave). If your language has the same or a similar idiom, you can translate or use it. Otherwise, you can translate the meaning. See how you translated this in 3:21. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

986EXO1131et2figs-idiomבְּ⁠עֵינֵ֥י עַבְדֵֽי־פַרְעֹ֖ה וּ⁠בְ⁠עֵינֵ֥י הָ⁠עָֽם1

Here, in the eyes of the servants of Pharaoh and in the eyes of the people is an idiom for their feelings or opinions. If your language has the same or a similar idiom, you can translate or use it. Otherwise, you can translate the meaning. See how you translated a similar idiom in 3:21. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

987EXO11312gp וַ⁠יִּתֵּ֧ן יְהוָ֛ה אֶת־חֵ֥ן הָ⁠עָ֖ם בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֣י מִצְרָ֑יִם1

Exodus 3:21 contains a related phrase; see how you translated it there.

988EXO114sewbfigs-quotemarksוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר מֹשֶׁ֔ה1

After this phrase, a direct quote begins that continues until the end of 11:8. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

989EXO114kpb5כֹּ֖ה אָמַ֣ר יְהוָ֑ה1midnight

This quotation form is used to introduce commands from Yahweh. See 4:intro for more information.

990EXO114vyvrfigs-quotemarksכֹּ֖ה אָמַ֣ר יְהוָ֑ה1

After this phrase, a second-level direct quote begins which continues until the end of 11:7. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening second-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

991EXO115hv8kבְּכוֹר֮ …מִ⁠בְּכ֤וֹר …בְּכ֣וֹר …בְּכ֥וֹר 1All the firstborn … the firstborn of Pharaoh … the firstborn of the slave girl … the firstborn of the cattle

The “firstborn” always refers to the oldest male offspring.

992EXO115k42hfigs-merismמִ⁠בְּכ֤וֹר פַּרְעֹה֙ הַ⁠יֹּשֵׁ֣ב עַל־כִּסְא֔⁠וֹ עַ֚ד בְּכ֣וֹר הַ⁠שִּׁפְחָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֖ר אַחַ֣ר הָ⁠רֵחָ֑יִם וְ⁠כֹ֖ל בְּכ֥וֹר בְּהֵמָֽה1who sits on his throne

This is a merism. First, two extremes are mentioned: the highest of society (Pharaoh, who sits on his throne) and the lowest (the slave girl who is behind the mill). Then the animals (beasts) are added making it a three- item list of parts of society and even economy to show the totality of the coming judgment. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

993EXO115hr1xאֲשֶׁ֖ר אַחַ֣ר הָ⁠רֵחָ֑יִם1who is behind the handmill grinding it

“who is grinding at the handmill” or “who is behind the handmill grinding grain”

994EXO116hui7figs-merismאֲשֶׁ֤ר כָּמֹ֨⁠הוּ֙ לֹ֣א נִהְיָ֔תָה וְ⁠כָמֹ֖⁠הוּ לֹ֥א תֹסִֽף1

This is a merism that uses the extremes of past and future to emphasize the concept of “never.” Alternate translation: “such as has never been and never will be” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

995EXO117b60afigs-idiomלֹ֤א יֶֽחֱרַץ…לְשֹׁנ֔⁠וֹ1

This means make an unfriendly noise. Alternate translation: “will not growl” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

996EXO117t61ifigs-youdualתֵּֽדְע֔וּ⁠ן 1

Here, you is plural. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

997EXO117fl78אֲשֶׁר֙ יַפְלֶ֣ה יְהוָ֔ה בֵּ֥ין מִצְרַ֖יִם וּ⁠בֵ֥ין יִשְׂרָאֵֽל1

See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 9:4.

998EXO117wicmfigs-quotemarksיִשְׂרָאֵֽל1

After this phrase, the second-level direct quote ends. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with a closing second-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of a quotation within a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

999EXO1189zortranslate-symactionוְ⁠הִשְׁתַּֽחֲוּוּ־לִ֣⁠י1

This does not mean to bow for worshiping. They will bow to Moses to beg him to leave. They will do this to show how desperate they will be for Moses and the Israelites to go. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

1000EXO118l678figs-explicitוְ⁠הִשְׁתַּֽחֲוּוּ־לִ֣⁠י1

They will bow to Moses to beg him to leave. They will do this to show how desperate they will be for Moses and the Israelites to go. If this action would not mean the same thing in your culture, you may need to make the reason they are bowing explicit. Alternate translation: “and they will bow down to me to beg” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1001EXO1184b8ifigs-metaphorוְ⁠כָל־הָ⁠עָ֣ם אֲשֶׁר־בְּ⁠רַגְלֶ֔י⁠ךָ1

Here, the people are figuratively pictured as below Moses, as his followers. The reference to feet also can mean they go the same place he goes, again, meaning “follower.” If your language uses a similar image to mean follower, you can translate the image; if not, you may use another image from your culture or translate the meaning. Alternate translation: “and all the people who are following you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1002EXO118ria5figs-explicitוְ⁠אַחֲרֵי־כֵ֖ן אֵצֵ֑א1After that I will go out

This means that Moses and the Israelites will leave Egypt. Alternate translation: “After that I will leave here” or “After that I will go out from Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1003EXO118awcjfigs-quotemarks אֵצֵ֑א1

After this phrase, the direct quote ends. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with a closing first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

1004EXO11876ojfigs-idiomבָּ⁠חֳרִי־אָֽף1

This is an idiom meaning that Moses is angry. Alternate translation: “enraged” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1005EXO119xk4lfigs-quotemarksלֹא־יִשְׁמַ֥ע אֲלֵי⁠כֶ֖ם פַּרְעֹ֑ה לְמַ֛עַן רְב֥וֹת מוֹפְתַ֖⁠י בְּ⁠אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

1006EXO11102cqtwriting-endofstoryוּ⁠מֹשֶׁ֣ה וְ⁠אַהֲרֹ֗ן עָשׂ֛וּ אֶת־כָּל־הַ⁠מֹּפְתִ֥ים הָ⁠אֵ֖לֶּה לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֑ה וַ⁠יְחַזֵּ֤ק יְהוָה֙ אֶת־לֵ֣ב פַּרְעֹ֔ה וְ⁠לֹֽא־שִׁלַּ֥ח אֶת־בְּנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל מֵ⁠אַרְצֽ⁠וֹ1

This verse is summarizing and wrapping up the story of the plagues. If your language has a way of summarizing information at the end of a story, try to translate this verse (and possibly verse 9 - see the the introductory notes to this chapter) in this way. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory]])

1007EXO1110um4ufigs-metaphorוַ⁠יְחַזֵּ֤ק יְהוָה֙ אֶת־לֵ֣ב פַּרְעֹ֔ה1Yahweh hardened Pharaohs heart

This means God made him stubborn. His stubborn attitude is spoken of as if his heart were strong. If heart is not the body part your culture uses to refer to a persons will, consider using whichever organ your culture would use for this image. See how you translated this in 4:21. Alternate translation: “But Yahweh caused Pharaoh to be stubborn” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1008EXO12introfd2f0

Exodus 12 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The events of this chapter are known as the Passover. They are remembered in the celebration of Passover. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/passover]])

  1. Instruction v. 1-28
    • v. 1-20: Yahweh gives instructions
      • v. 1-11: how to eat this Passover
      • v. 12-13: description of the plague
      • v. 14-20: directions for future celebration of Passover
    • v. 21-28: Moses repeats Yahwehs instructions to Israelites
  2. Narrative v. 29-42: Passover and Exodus
  3. Instruction v. 43-49: which foreigners may eat Passover
  4. Summary Narrative v. 50-51

Special concepts in this chapter

Unleavened bread

The concept of unleavened bread is introduced in this chapter. Its significance stems from its connection to the events in this chapter. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/unleavenedbread]])

Ethnic segregation

The Hebrew people were to be separate from the rest of the world. Because of this, they separated themselves from other people groups. At this time, these foreigners were looked upon as unholy. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])

Potential translation issues:

Passover

Pronoun usage

In the long quotation (verses 3-20) that Yahweh tells Moses and Aaron to convey to the Israelites, he speaks of them in the third person (“they must”) in verses 34 and verses 78 and to them in the second person (“you must”) for all the rest of the instruction. Some languages may need to keep the pronoun person consistent throughout the quotation.

You plural

In this chapter, almost every occurrence of “you” or “your” is plural. Each one refers to all the Israelites. Those that are not will be marked. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form throughout unless otherwise noted. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

1009EXO122z785figs-quotemarksהַ⁠חֹ֧דֶשׁ הַ⁠זֶּ֛ה לָ⁠כֶ֖ם רֹ֣אשׁ חֳדָשִׁ֑ים1For you, this month will be the start of months, the first month of the year to you

The start of this verse is the beginning of a direct quote which continues until the end of verse 20. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

1010EXO122gtgbfigs-parallelismהַ⁠חֹ֧דֶשׁ הַ⁠זֶּ֛ה לָ⁠כֶ֖ם רֹ֣אשׁ חֳדָשִׁ֑ים רִאשׁ֥וֹן הוּא֙ לָ⁠כֶ֔ם לְ⁠חָדְשֵׁ֖י הַ⁠שָּׁנָֽה1

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize that the month in which the events of this chapter take place will be the beginning of their calendar year. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

1011EXO1238rfdfigs-youdualדַּבְּר֗וּ1

The command here is to both Moses and Aaron. If your language uses a different form if two are people addressed, use a dual form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

1012EXO122uy4wtranslate-hebrewmonthsרִאשׁ֥וֹן הוּא֙ לָ⁠כֶ֔ם לְ⁠חָדְשֵׁ֖י הַ⁠שָּׁנָֽה1the first month of the year

The first month of the Hebrew calendar includes the last part of March and the first part of April on Western calendars. It marks when Yahweh rescued the Israelites from the Egyptians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths]])

1013EXO123nu6rfigs-quotemarksלֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר בֶּ⁠עָשֹׂ֖ר1

After saying, a second level direct quotation begins which continues until the end of verse 20. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening second-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation within a quotation. Saying is used to mark the beginning of a quote. Many times it can be omitted in translation if the target language does not use a similar structure. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

1014EXO123jjw0וְ⁠יִקְח֣וּ לָ⁠הֶ֗ם אִ֛ישׁ שֶׂ֥ה לְ⁠בֵית־אָבֹ֖ת שֶׂ֥ה לַ⁠בָּֽיִת1

This seems to be indicating that if multiple families live in one house, the man who is the leader of the family group that lives there should take one lamb for that whole household. Alternate translation: “the father of each household must take a lamb for his household, one per household”

1015EXO123d1f5שֶׂ֥ה לַ⁠בָּֽיִת1

“one lamb per house”

1016EXO123qzctשֶׂ֥ה…שֶׂ֥ה1

This word literally means, “of the flock,” and could also be translated as a sheep or a goat. Here, the ULT uses lamb (a young sheep), because verse 5 specifies that it must be one year old. “Kid” (a young goat) would be equally valid as verse 5 also says that it could be either a sheep or a goat. You may translate it as whatever would be most familiar of sheep or goat—preferably a word that means a young sheep or goat.

1017EXO124xzn3figs-explicitוְ⁠אִם־יִמְעַ֣ט הַ⁠בַּיִת֮ מִ⁠הְיֹ֣ת מִ⁠שֶּׂה֒1If the household is too small for a lamb

This means that there are not enough people in the family to eat an entire lamb. Alternate translation: “If there are not enough people in the household to eat an entire lamb” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1018EXO124067dוּ⁠שְׁכֵנ֛⁠וֹ הַ⁠קָּרֹ֥ב אֶל־בֵּית֖⁠וֹ בְּ⁠מִכְסַ֣ת נְפָשֹׁ֑ת1

This phrase could either mean simply a neighbor that lives nearby or it could refer to a family of similar size, or of the right size to split a lamb with.

1019EXO124fu2gfigs-gendernotationsאִ֚ישׁ1the man and his next door neighbor

This refers to each person, whether man, woman, or child. Alternate translation: “each family member” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

1020EXO126lz76בֵּ֥ין הָ⁠עַרְבָּֽיִם1twilight

This refers to the time of evening after the sun has set but while there is still some light.

1021EXO127cjt7עַל־שְׁתֵּ֥י הַ⁠מְּזוּזֹ֖ת וְ⁠עַל־הַ⁠מַּשְׁק֑וֹף עַ֚ל הַ⁠בָּ֣תִּ֔ים1on the two side doorposts and on the tops of the doorframes of the houses

“on the sides and top of the way into the house”

1022EXO128uxn6מְרֹרִ֖ים1bitter herbs

These are small plants that have a strong and usually bad taste.

1023EXO129ny3aאַל־תֹּאכְל֤וּ מִמֶּ֨⁠נּוּ֙ נָ֔א1Do not eat it raw

“Do not eat the lamb or goat uncooked”

1024EXO1211ks7dחֲגֻרִ֔ים 1belt

Belts are strips of leather or fabric for tying around the waist.

1025EXO1211nzw2וַ⁠אֲכַלְתֶּ֤ם אֹת⁠וֹ֙ בְּ⁠חִפָּז֔וֹן1eat it hurriedly

“And you must eat it quickly”

1026EXO1211r789figs-explicitפֶּ֥סַח ה֖וּא לַ⁠יהוָֽה1It is Yahwehs Passover

Here the word it refers to eating the animal on the tenth day of the month. Alternate translation: “This observance is Yahwehs Passover” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1027EXO1212sa5nfigs-abstractnounsוּ⁠בְ⁠כָל־אֱלֹהֵ֥י מִצְרַ֛יִם אֶֽעֱשֶׂ֥ה שְׁפָטִ֖ים1I will bring punishment on all the gods of Egypt

This can be stated with a verbal form as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1028EXO1213tywzfigs-abstractnounsלְ⁠מַשְׁחִ֔ית1

This can be stated with a verbal form as in the UST. Alternate translation: “to destroy you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1029EXO12133912figs-activepassiveוְ⁠לֹֽא־יִֽהְיֶ֨ה בָ⁠כֶ֥ם נֶ֨גֶף֙ 1

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “and I will not put the plague on you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1030EXO1213ox3lfigs-metonymyבְּ⁠אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם1

Yahweh is going to strike the people and animals who live in the land of Egypt. Alternate translation: “on everything living in the land of Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1031EXO12144wsdוְ⁠הָיָה֩ הַ⁠יּ֨וֹם הַ⁠זֶּ֤ה1

Verses 14-20 are instructions for the Israelites future celebration of the Passover. If your language makes a distinction between near and far future events or between near and general commands, you may need to make clear that these verses primarily have a later application.

1032EXO1214usnstranslate-hebrewmonthsהַ⁠יּ֨וֹם הַ⁠זֶּ֤ה1

This day means the tenth day of the first month of every year. On this day every year, they must celebrate the Passover. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths]])

1033EXO1215xsb9אַ֚ךְ 1

“Surely” or “Indeed”

1034EXO1215i9n3figs-metaphorוְ⁠נִכְרְתָ֞ה הַ⁠נֶּ֤פֶשׁ הַ⁠הִוא֙ מִ⁠יִּשְׂרָאֵ֔ל1that person must be cut off from Israel

The metaphor cut off has at least three possible meanings. The following alternate translations express those: (1) “he must be sent away” or (2) “he will no longer be considered to be one of the people of Israel” or (3) “he must be killed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1035EXO121588wcfigs-activepassiveוְ⁠נִכְרְתָ֞ה הַ⁠נֶּ֤פֶשׁ הַ⁠הִוא֙ מִ⁠יִּשְׂרָאֵ֔ל1

The metaphor cut off has at least three possible meanings. They can be expressed in active form. Who will cut off that person is also not specified, it could be the Israelites or Yahweh. The following alternate translations express those: (1) “the people of Israel must send him away” or (2) “I will no longer consider him to be one of the people of Israel” or (3) “the people of Israel must kill him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1036EXO1215eqzugrammar-collectivenounsמִ⁠יִּשְׂרָאֵ֔ל1

Israel is a collective noun referring to the nation or people group. Alternate translation: “from the Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

1037EXO1216bzj6figs-activepassiveוּ⁠בַ⁠יּ֤וֹם הָ⁠רִאשׁוֹן֙ מִקְרָא־קֹ֔דֶשׁ וּ⁠בַ⁠יּוֹם֙ הַ⁠שְּׁבִיעִ֔י מִקְרָא־קֹ֖דֶשׁ יִהְיֶ֣ה לָ⁠כֶ֑ם1an assembly that is set apart to me

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “And on the first day and on the seventh day, you shall have an assembly of holiness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1038EXO121663edtranslate-ordinalוּ⁠בַ⁠יּ֤וֹם הָ⁠רִאשׁוֹן֙…וּ⁠בַ⁠יּוֹם֙ הַ⁠שְּׁבִיעִ֔י1

First and seventh are ordinal numbers. Alternate translation: “And on day one of the month ... and on day seven of the month” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1039EXO1216l7pjfigs-activepassiveכָּל־מְלָאכָה֙ לֹא־יֵעָשֶׂ֣ה בָ⁠הֶ֔ם1No work will be done on these days

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “You will do no work on these days” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1040EXO1216qr65figs-activepassiveה֥וּא לְ⁠בַדּ֖⁠וֹ יֵעָשֶׂ֥ה לָ⁠כֶֽם1That must be the only work that may be done by you

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that must be the only work that you do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1041EXO1217r3qjtranslate-unknownצִבְאוֹתֵי⁠כֶ֖ם1armed group by armed group

The term hosts refers to a large group of people, often organized into groups for war. See how you translated this in Exodus 6:26. Alternate translation: “your groups” or “your divisions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1042EXO12187oattranslate-ordinalבָּ⁠רִאשֹׁ֡ן בְּ⁠אַרְבָּעָה֩ עָשָׂ֨ר י֤וֹם לַ⁠חֹ֨דֶשׁ֙…עַ֠ד י֣וֹם הָ⁠אֶחָ֧ד וְ⁠עֶשְׂרִ֛ים לַ⁠חֹ֖דֶשׁ1

First, fourteenth, and twenty-first are ordinal numbers. Alternate translation: “In month one, on day fourteen ... until day twenty-one of the month” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1043EXO1218l57qtranslate-ordinalבָּ⁠רִאשֹׁ֡ן בְּ⁠אַרְבָּעָה֩ עָשָׂ֨ר י֤וֹם לַ⁠חֹ֨דֶשׁ֙…עַ֠ד י֣וֹם הָ⁠אֶחָ֧ד וְ⁠עֶשְׂרִ֛ים לַ⁠חֹ֖דֶשׁ1

(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1044EXO1218m475translate-hebrewmonthsבָּ⁠רִאשֹׁ֡ן בְּ⁠אַרְבָּעָה֩ עָשָׂ֨ר י֤וֹם לַ⁠חֹ֨דֶשׁ֙1the fourteenth day in the first month

This is the first month of the Hebrew calendar. The fourteenth day is near the beginning of April on Western calendars. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths]])

1045EXO1218uss3translate-hebrewmonthsי֣וֹם הָ⁠אֶחָ֧ד וְ⁠עֶשְׂרִ֛ים לַ⁠חֹ֖דֶשׁ1the twenty-first day of the month

This is near the middle of April on Western calendars. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths]])

1046EXO1219aej1figs-activepassiveשְׂאֹ֕ר לֹ֥א יִמָּצֵ֖א בְּ⁠בָתֵּי⁠כֶ֑ם1no yeast must be found in your houses

This can be stated in active form. Note that the UST is much more accurate to the meaning here as the alternate translation in this note could suggest to someone that you must simply hide the yeast very well. Alternate translation: “no one must be able to find any yeast in your houses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1047EXO1219vy72figs-metaphorוְ⁠נִכְרְתָ֞ה הַ⁠נֶּ֤פֶשׁ הַ⁠הִוא֙ מֵ⁠עֲדַ֣ת יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל1must be cut off from the community of Israel

The metaphor cut off has at least three possible meanings. The following alternate translations express those: (1) “that person must be sent away” or (2) “that person will no longer be considered to be one of the people of Israel” or (3) “that person must be killed” See how you translated cut off in Exodus 12:15. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1048EXO1219cwvsfigs-activepassiveוְ⁠נִכְרְתָ֞ה הַ⁠נֶּ֤פֶשׁ הַ⁠הִוא֙ מֵ⁠עֲדַ֣ת יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל1

The metaphor cut off has at least three possible meanings. Who will cut off that person is also not specified, it could be the Israelites or Yahweh. They can be expressed in active form. See how you translated cut off in Exodus 12:15. The following alternate translations express those: (1) “the people of Israel must send that person away” or (2) “I will no longer consider that person to be one of the people of Israel” or (3) “the people of Israel must kill that person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1049EXO1220407nfigs-quotemarksמַצּֽוֹת1

After this phrase, the direct quote of Yahwehs commands to Moses and Aaron for the Israelites ends (two levels). It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with closing second-level and first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the end of quotations. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

1050EXO1221y9qtwriting-newevent1summoned

A new scene begins at this verse, which may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

1051EXO12214hw6figs-quotemarksוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר אֲלֵ⁠הֶ֑ם1

After this phrase, a direct quote begins that continues until the end of 12:27. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

1052EXO1222qwv1translate-unknownאֲגֻדַּ֣ת אֵז֗וֹב1hyssop

Hyssop is a woody plant with small leaves that can be used for sprinkling liquids. If this plant is unknown, you can use a descriptor phrase. Alternate translation: “part of a plant with small branches and many leaves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1053EXO1222c1cfאֶל־הַ⁠מַּשְׁקוֹף֙ וְ⁠אֶל־שְׁתֵּ֣י הַ⁠מְּזוּזֹ֔ת1the top of the doorframe and the two doorposts

“on the sides and top of the way into the house.” See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 12:7.

1054EXO1222vdljfigs-gendernotationsלֹ֥א…אִ֥ישׁ1

Here, man includes women and children. Alternate translation: “no person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

1055EXO1223uu61figs-synecdocheוּ⁠פָסַ֤ח יְהוָה֙ עַל־הַ⁠פֶּ֔תַח1pass over your door

Here the word door implies the entire house. This means that God will spare the Israelites in houses with blood on the door frames. Alternate translation: “and Yahweh will pass over the house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1056EXO1223onpuעַל־הַ⁠מַּשְׁק֔וֹף וְ⁠עַ֖ל שְׁתֵּ֣י הַ⁠מְּזוּזֹ֑ת1

“on the sides and top of the way into the house” See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 12:7.

1057EXO1224v7z5הַ⁠דָּבָ֣ר הַ⁠זֶּ֑ה1this event

These words refer to the Passover or Festival of Unleavened Bread. Observing the Passover was an act of worshiping Yahweh.

1058EXO1224bzm0figs-youcrowdלְ⁠ךָ֥ וּ⁠לְ⁠בָנֶ֖י⁠ךָ1

Here, you and your are singular but they refer to the whole nation. You may need to continue to use a plural form of “you,” if your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd]])

1059EXO1224ch73figs-gendernotationsוּ⁠לְ⁠בָנֶ֖י⁠ךָ1

Here, sons includes everyone. Alternate translation: see UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

1060EXO1225l8lsהָ⁠עֲבֹדָ֥ה הַ⁠זֹּֽאת1this act of worship

These words refer to the Passover or Festival of Unleavened Bread. Observing the Passover was an act of worshiping Yahweh.

1061EXO12269bx1figs-gendernotationsבְּנֵי⁠כֶ֑ם1

This refers to all children, as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

1062EXO1226odj0figs-quotesinquotesאֲלֵי⁠כֶ֖ם…מָ֛ה הָ⁠עֲבֹדָ֥ה הַ⁠זֹּ֖את לָ⁠כֶֽם1

After you, a second-level quotation begins. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with second-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation within a quotation. However, you may want to translate this as an indirect quotation in order to reduce the layers of quotations in this passage. Alternative translation: “to you what this ritual means to you,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

1063EXO1227qft1figs-quotemarksזֶֽבַח־פֶּ֨סַח ה֜וּא לַֽ⁠יהוָ֗ה אֲשֶׁ֣ר פָּ֠סַח עַל־בָּתֵּ֤י בְנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ בְּ⁠מִצְרַ֔יִם בְּ⁠נָגְפּ֥⁠וֹ אֶת־מִצְרַ֖יִם וְ⁠אֶת־בָּתֵּ֣י⁠נוּ הִצִּ֑יל1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

1064EXO1227t779figs-explicitוְ⁠אֶת־בָּתֵּ֣י⁠נוּ הִצִּ֑יל1He set our households free

This means that Yahweh spared the Israelites firstborn sons. Alternate translation: “He did not kill the firstborn sons in our houses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1065EXO1228r5cjכַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֨ר צִוָּ֧ה יְהוָ֛ה אֶת־מֹשֶׁ֥ה וְ⁠אַהֲרֹ֖ן כֵּ֥ן עָשֽׂוּ1as Yahweh had commanded Moses and Aaron

“everything that Yahweh told Moses and Aaron to do”

1066EXO1229rvg91

The next few verses are the climax of this part of Exodus. A number of literary features mark it out. First, it is specially introduced with and so it happened, which is used to mark major breaks in the narrative. Second, it uses repetition: firstborn is repeated four times in verse 29 so that the reader cannot possibly miss what is happening. Night is repeated in verse 29, 30, and 31. Got up/get up is repeated in verse 30 and 31. In verses 31 and 32 “also” occurs five times (it is translated as “both” once in the ULT). Third, the places of both Pharaoh and the captive are elaborated on to slow the pace and create a vivid mental image for the reader. In verse 30 there is the listing of sorts of people who got up; note the use of the double negative for emphasis. Your translation should attempt to use the same or similar literary features of your own language that slow down the pace, create vivid imagery, and emphasize that this is a climax point.

1067EXO1229zm1lfigs-merismמִ⁠בְּכֹ֤ר פַּרְעֹה֙ הַ⁠יֹּשֵׁ֣ב עַל־כִּסְא֔⁠וֹ עַ֚ד בְּכ֣וֹר הַ⁠שְּׁבִ֔י אֲשֶׁ֖ר בְּ⁠בֵ֣ית הַ⁠בּ֑וֹר וְ⁠כֹ֖ל בְּכ֥וֹר בְּהֵמָֽה1at midnight

This is a merism used to indicate that there was no person or household excluded from Yahwehs judgment. It both speaks of extreme parts of society and then makes this into a list by including the animals. Alternate translation: “the firstborn of Pharaoh who sits on the throne and the firstborn of the captive who was in the house of the pit and the firstborn of everyone in between was struck; even all the firstborn of the beasts were struck” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

1068EXO1229uj6uבְּכוֹר֮…מִ⁠בְּכֹ֤ר…בְּכ֣וֹר…בְּכ֥וֹר1all the firstborn in the land of Egypt…all the firstborn of cattle

In theses usages, firstborn always refers to the oldest male offspring. See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 11:5.

1069EXO1229g9z1עַ֚ד בְּכ֣וֹר הַ⁠שְּׁבִ֔י אֲשֶׁ֖ר בְּ⁠בֵ֣ית הַ⁠בּ֑וֹר1the firstborn of the person in prison

“to the firstborn of people in the house of the pit” This refers to prisoners in general and not to a specific person in prison.

1070EXO1230gt4wfigs-doublenegativesכִּֽי־אֵ֣ין בַּ֔יִת אֲשֶׁ֥ר אֵֽין־שָׁ֖ם מֵֽת׃1for there was not a house where there was not someone dead

This double negative emphasizes the positive. Alternate translation: “because someone was dead in every house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1071EXO1231j8k5figs-youdualאַתֶּ֖ם…כְּ⁠דַבֶּרְ⁠כֶֽם1

Here, Pharaoh speaking is to both Moses and Aaron. If your language uses a different form if two are people addressed, use a dual form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

1072EXO1233j5u4figs-explicitכֻּלָּ֥⁠נוּ מֵתִֽים1We will all die

The Egyptians were afraid that they would die if the Israelites did not leave Egypt. Alternate translation: “We will all die if you do not leave” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1073EXO1234diw8figs-activepassiveמִשְׁאֲרֹתָ֛⁠ם צְרֻרֹ֥ת בְּ⁠שִׂמְלֹתָ֖⁠ם עַל־שִׁכְמָֽ⁠ם1Their kneading bowls were already tied up in their clothes and on their shoulders

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “They tied up their bread- making bowls in their clothes and placed them on their shoulders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1074EXO1236679hfigs-idiomאֶת־חֵ֥ן הָ⁠עָ֛ם בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֥י מִצְרַ֖יִם1

Here, in the eyes of the Egyptians is an idiom for the Egyptians feelings or opinion. Favor means that those feelings are positive. Taken together, this means that when the Egyptians saw the Israelites leaving Egypt, they gladly helped them (because they wanted them to leave so badly due to the Egyptians suffering under Gods judgment). If your language has the same or a similar idiom, you can translate or use it. Otherwise, you can translate the meaning. See how you translated this in 3:21. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1075EXO1237n1hatranslate-namesמֵ⁠רַעְמְסֵ֖ס 1Rameses

Rameses was a major Egyptian city where grain was stored. See how you translated this in Exodus 1:11. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1076EXO1237u81ltranslate-numbersכְּ⁠שֵׁשׁ־מֵא֨וֹת אֶ֧לֶף1They numbered about 600,000 men

“about six hundred thousand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1077EXO1239pva6figs-activepassiveכִּֽי־גֹרְשׁ֣וּ מִ⁠מִּצְרַ֗יִם1they had been driven out of Egypt

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “because the Egyptians had driven them out of Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1078EXO1240qsi5translate-numbersשְׁלֹשִׁ֣ים…וְ⁠אַרְבַּ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת1430 years

“four hundred thirty” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1079EXO1241d8yhtranslate-numbersשְׁלֹשִׁ֣ים…וְ⁠אַרְבַּ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת1430 years

“four hundred thirty” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1080EXO1241xlf4translate-unknownצִבְא֥וֹת 1Yahwehs armed groups

The term hosts refers to a large group of people, often organized into groups for war. See how you translated this in Exodus 6:26. Alternate translation: “your groups” or “your divisions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1081EXO1242w6mjלַֽ⁠יהוָ֔ה שִׁמֻּרִ֛ים לְ⁠כָל־בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל לְ⁠דֹרֹתָֽ⁠ם1all the Israelites throughout their peoples generations

You could combine for all the sons of Israel to observe for Yahweh throughout their generations into one noun phrase as subject. Alternate translation: “for all the sons of Israel throughout their generations to observe for Yahweh”

1082EXO1243zwacfigs-quotemarksוְ⁠אַהֲרֹ֔ן1

After this phrase, a direct quote begins that continues until the end of 12:49. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

1083EXO1244n9wnוְ⁠כָל־עֶ֥בֶד אִ֖ישׁ1every Israelites slave

“But any slave of an Israelite”

1084EXO12447fp2grammar-connect-condition-hypotheticalוּ⁠מַלְתָּ֣ה אֹת֔⁠וֹ אָ֖ז1

This is a hypothetical situation. You will need to use whatever form your language uses to mark something as potentially true. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]])

1085EXO124470e8figs-yousingularוּ⁠מַלְתָּ֣ה1

Here you is singular. It refers to a specific man and his slave. It might make more sense to use the third person here. Alternate translation: “if he circumcised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])

1086EXO1246j242figs-activepassiveבְּ⁠בַ֤יִת אֶחָד֙ יֵאָכֵ֔ל1The food must be eaten in one house

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “You must eat it in one house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1087EXO1246iovjfigs-youcrowdלֹא־תוֹצִ֧יא1

Here, you is singular, however it is used to address a crowd, so you may need to translate it using a plural form if your languages uses one. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd]])

1088EXO1248j7obgrammar-connect-condition-hypotheticalוְ⁠כִֽי־יָג֨וּר אִתְּ⁠ךָ֜ גֵּ֗ר וְ⁠עָ֣שָׂה פֶסַח֮ לַ⁠יהוָה֒1

This is a two-part hypothetical situation. It describes the circumstance and desire of the sojourner, the next portion says what he must do. You will need to use whatever form your language uses to mark something as potentially true. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]])

1089EXO12489dh9figs-youcrowdאִתְּ⁠ךָ֜1

Here, you is singular, however it is used to address a crowd, so you may need to translate it using a plural form if your languages uses one. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd]])

1090EXO1248h7k9figs-activepassiveהִמּ֧וֹל ל֣⁠וֹ כָל־זָכָ֗ר1all his male relatives must be circumcised

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “someone must circumcise all males in his household” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1091EXO1248n3fzgrammar-connect-logic-goalהִמּ֧וֹל ל֣⁠וֹ כָל־זָכָ֗ר וְ⁠אָז֙ יִקְרַ֣ב לַ⁠עֲשֹׂת֔⁠וֹ1

The sojourner will be circumcised in order to draw near to keep the Passover. Some languages may need to place the purpose clause first. Alternate translation: “in order draw near to keep it all his males must be circumcised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])

1092EXO1248hi4zfigs-metonymyכְּ⁠אֶזְרַ֣ח הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ 1the people who were born in the land

Here, land refers to Canaan—which is the land that the Israelites will soon live in. The expression a native of the land means a person who is a native Israelite. Alternate translation: “those who are Israelites by birth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1093EXO1248f9tifigs-doublenegativesוְ⁠כָל־עָרֵ֖ל לֹֽא־יֹ֥אכַל בּֽ⁠וֹ1no uncircumcised person may eat

This can be stated in positive terms. Alternate translation: “And only a circumcised person may eat it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1094EXO1251e3z3וַ⁠יְהִ֕י בְּ⁠עֶ֖צֶם הַ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠זֶּ֑ה1It came about

This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

1095EXO1251tyj3translate-unknownצִבְאֹתָֽ⁠ם1by their armed groups

The term hosts refers to a large group of people often organized into groups for war. See how you translated this in Exodus 6:26. Alternate translation: “your groups” or “your divisions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1096EXO13introg9qi0

Exodus 13 General Notes

Structure and formatting

  1. Instruction v. 1-2: First mention of setting apart the firstborn v. 3-10: Reiteration of the Passover instructions from 12:14-20 and 24-27, with a focus on telling to Yahwehs deeds to the future generations of Israelites v. 11-13: More details on setting apart the firstborn v. 14-16: Reiteration of purpose: telling to future generations
  2. Narrative v. 17-22: Some details of the exodus

Special concepts in this chapter

  • There are several concepts that will be important to understand and translate with care (some have already been encountered in Exodus). They are: set apart, sign, symbol, redemption, and sacrifice.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

  • There are a number of names of people groups and places in this chapter. However, many have been translated in earlier passages.
  • Transporting the bones of Joseph may be an unknown concept in some places.
  • It may take some time to decide on a good translation for the pillars of fire and cloud that lead the Israelites.
1097EXO132de3ufigs-quotemarksקַדֶּשׁ־לִ֨⁠י כָל־בְּכ֜וֹר פֶּ֤טֶר כָּל־רֶ֨חֶם֙ בִּ⁠בְנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל בָּ⁠אָדָ֖ם וּ⁠בַ⁠בְּהֵמָ֑ה לִ֖⁠י הֽוּא1Set apart to me…every firstborn male

This entire verse is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

1098EXO1338jzbfigs-quotemarksאֶל־הָ⁠עָ֗ם1

After this phrase, a direct quote begins that continues until the end of verse 16. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

1099EXO133en1sfigs-metaphorמִ⁠בֵּ֣ית עֲבָדִ֔ים1the house of slavery

Moses speaks of Egypt as if it were a house where people keep slaves. Alternate translation: “the place where you were slaves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1100EXO133yjy5figs-metonymyבְּ⁠חֹ֣זֶק יָ֔ד1Yahwehs strong hand

Here, hand refers to power. See how you translated “strong hand” in Exodus 6:1. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1101EXO133c6eefigs-activepassiveוְ⁠לֹ֥א יֵאָכֵ֖ל חָמֵֽץ1No bread with yeast may be eaten

This can be stated in active form, as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1102EXO134y1f3translate-hebrewmonthsהָ⁠אָבִֽיב1the month of Aviv

This is the name of the first month of the Hebrew calendar. Aviv is during the last part of March and the first part of April on Western calendars. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths]])

1103EXO13476uytranslate-namesהָ⁠אָבִֽיב1

Aviv is the name of the first month of the Hebrew calendar. Aviv is during the last part of March and the first part of April on Western calendars. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1104EXO135x89sוְ⁠הָיָ֣ה כִֽי־יְבִֽיאֲ⁠ךָ֣ יְהוָ֡ה אֶל־אֶ֣רֶץ…וְ⁠עָבַדְתָּ֛ אֶת־הָ⁠עֲבֹדָ֥ה הַ⁠זֹּ֖את בַּ⁠חֹ֥דֶשׁ הַ⁠זֶּֽה1you must observe this act of worship

When the Israelites live in Canaan, they must celebrate the Passover on this day each year. See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 12:25.

1105EXO135u37lfigs-metaphorלַ⁠אֲבֹתֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙1

Here, fathers figuratively means “ancestors.” Alternate translation: “to your ancestors” (See:[[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1106EXO1356287אֶ֛רֶץ זָבַ֥ת חָלָ֖ב וּ⁠דְבָ֑שׁ1

The same description occurs in Exodus 3:8. See how you translated it there and in the several notes for it.

1107EXO136vwy9translate-numbersשִׁבְעַ֥ת1For seven days

“7” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1108EXO136mde6translate-ordinalהַ⁠שְּׁבִיעִ֔י1

“7th” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1109EXO137n41mfigs-activepassiveמַצּוֹת֙ יֵֽאָכֵ֔ל1Bread without yeast must be eaten

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “You must eat unleavened bread” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1110EXO137zm8ptranslate-numbersשִׁבְעַ֣ת1

“7” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1111EXO137le33figs-activepassiveוְ⁠לֹֽא־יֵרָאֶ֨ה לְ⁠ךָ֜ חָמֵ֗ץ1no bread with yeast may be seen among you

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you may not have any bread with yeast among you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1112EXO137c9krfigs-activepassiveוְ⁠לֹֽא־יֵרָאֶ֥ה לְ⁠ךָ֛ שְׂאֹ֖ר 1No yeast may be seen with you

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “You may not have any yeast” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1113EXO137dmv1בְּ⁠כָל־גְּבֻלֶֽ⁠ךָ1within any of your borders

“inside any of the borders of your land”

1114EXO138qum9figs-quotesinquotesבַּ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠ה֖וּא לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר בַּ⁠עֲב֣וּר זֶ֗ה עָשָׂ֤ה יְהוָה֙ לִ֔⁠י בְּ⁠צֵאתִ֖⁠י מִ⁠מִּצְרָֽיִם1On that day you are to say to your children, This is because of what Yahweh did for me when I came out of Egypt.

The quotation can be stated as an indirect quote. Alternate translation: “on that day that this is because of what Yahweh did for you when you came out of Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

1115EXO139p21hfigs-parallelismוְ⁠הָיָה֩ לְ⁠ךָ֨ לְ⁠א֜וֹת עַל־יָדְ⁠ךָ֗ וּ⁠לְ⁠זִכָּרוֹן֙ בֵּ֣ין עֵינֶ֔י⁠ךָ1This will be a reminder for you on your hand, and a reminder on your forehead

These are two different types of physical reminders so people will not forget something important. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

1116EXO139s7zgfigs-metaphorלְ⁠ךָ֨ לְ⁠א֜וֹת עַל־יָדְ⁠ךָ֗1a reminder for you on your hand

Moses speaks of celebrating the festival as if it were an object one could tie around their hands to remind them of what Yahweh had done. Alternate translation: “like something you tie around your hand as a reminder” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1117EXO139mru4figs-metaphor⁠לְ⁠זִכָּרוֹן֙ בֵּ֣ין עֵינֶ֔י⁠ךָ1a reminder on your forehead

Moses speaks of celebrating the festival as if it were an object one could tie on their foreheads to remind them of what Yahweh had done. Alternate translation: “like something you tie around your head as a reminder” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1118EXO139b6nyfigs-metonymyלְמַ֗עַן תִּהְיֶ֛ה תּוֹרַ֥ת יְהוָ֖ה בְּ⁠פִ֑י⁠ךָ1so the law of Yahweh may be in your mouth

Here, in your mouth refers to the words that they speak. Alternate translation: “so you may always be speaking of the law of Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1119EXO139w5rmfigs-metonymyבְּ⁠יָ֣ד חֲזָקָ֔ה1strong hand

Here, hand refers to power. See how you translated “strong hand” in Exodus 6:1. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1120EXO1310rxelfigs-merismמִ⁠יָּמִ֖ים יָמִֽימָ⁠ה1

“for all time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

1121EXO1311e886figs-metaphorוְ⁠לַֽ⁠אֲבֹתֶ֑י⁠ךָ1

Here, fathers figuratively means “ancestors.” Alternate translation: “to your ancestors” (See:[[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1122EXO1311iqh5וּ⁠נְתָנָ֖⁠הּ לָֽ⁠ךְ1when he gives the land to you

“when he gives the land of the Canaanites to you”

1123EXO1312mqgsוְ⁠הַעֲבַרְתָּ֥1

This is a deliberate word-play with Exodus 12:12 and Exodus 12:23 because these memorial sacrifices are to be reminders of what happened at the first Passover. It would be good to make a similar word-play in your translation, if possible, but following the meaning as in the UST is fine.

1124EXO1313lwv5figs-explicitבְ⁠שֶׂ֔ה…וַ⁠עֲרַפְתּ֑⁠וֹ1Every firstborn of a donkey

You may need to make explicit that either the lamb or donkey must be killed, as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1125EXO13130xw3לֹ֥א תִפְדֶּ֖ה1

“you do not ransom the donkey”

1126EXO1314s8cmfigs-quotesinquotesכִּֽי־יִשְׁאָלְ⁠ךָ֥ בִנְ⁠ךָ֛ מָחָ֖ר לֵ⁠אמֹ֣ר מַה־זֹּ֑את וְ⁠אָמַרְתָּ֣ אֵלָ֔י⁠ו1When your son asks you later, What does this mean? then you are to tell him

The first quotation can be stated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “when your son asks you later what this means, then you are to tell him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

1127EXO1314qr7qfigs-metonymyבְּ⁠חֹ֣זֶק יָ֗ד1strong hand

Here, hand represents Gods actions or works. See how you translated this in Exodus 6:1. Alternate translation: “With his powerful works” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1128EXO1314rcz7figs-metaphorמִ⁠בֵּ֥ית עֲבָדִֽים1the house of slavery

Moses speaks of Egypt as if it were a house where people keep slaves. See how you translated this in Exodus 13:3. Alternate translation: “from the place where you were slaves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1129EXO1315fgvgfigs-metaphorכִּֽי־הִקְשָׁ֣ה פַרְעֹה֮ לְ⁠שַׁלְּחֵ⁠נוּ֒1

This means he was stubborn. His stubborn attitude is spoken of as if he were hard. Alternate translation: “that when Pharaoh resisted letting us go” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1130EXO1315atxzfigs-merismמִ⁠בְּכֹ֥ר אָדָ֖ם וְ⁠עַד־בְּכ֣וֹר בְּהֵמָ֑ה1

This is a figure of speech used to emphasize the extent of the plague. Alternate translation: “whether he was a person or an animal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

1131EXO1316bse4figs-parallelismוְ⁠הָיָ֤ה לְ⁠אוֹת֙ עַל־יָ֣דְ⁠כָ֔ה וּ⁠לְ⁠טוֹטָפֹ֖ת בֵּ֣ין עֵינֶ֑י⁠ךָ1become a reminder on your hands, and a reminder on your forehead

This expresses two ways to remember the importance of the passover event. See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 13:9. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

1132EXO13163kt7figs-metonymyבְּ⁠חֹ֣זֶק יָ֔ד1

Here, hand represents Gods actions or works. See how you translated this in Exodus 6:1. Alternate translation: “with his powerful works” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1133EXO131792x6writing-neweventוַ⁠יְהִ֗י 1

This marks the transition from instruction to narrative. You should mark the resumption of the narrative in a natural way in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

1134EXO1317pum6grammar-connect-condition-contraryוְ⁠לֹא־נָחָ֣⁠ם אֱלֹהִ֗ים דֶּ֚רֶךְ אֶ֣רֶץ פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔ים כִּ֥י קָר֖וֹב ה֑וּא1

The route on which God took the Israelites was not the expected route. In some languages you may need to put the portion that describes the expectation first. Alternate translation: “although it was nearby, God did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary]])

1135EXO1317upopgrammar-connect-condition-hypotheticalפֶּֽן־יִנָּחֵ֥ם הָ⁠עָ֛ם בִּ⁠רְאֹתָ֥⁠ם מִלְחָמָ֖ה וְ⁠שָׁ֥בוּ מִצְרָֽיְמָ⁠ה1

In some languages you may need to put the reason before the hypothetical result. Alternate translation: “When they see war, they may repent and return to Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]])

1136EXO13175vckיִנָּחֵ֥ם1

“turn back”

1137EXO1318c4twוַ⁠חֲמֻשִׁ֛ים1

The meaning of this term (by fives) is uncertain. Many English translations opt for something like “prepared for battle” because this seems to be the meaning in Numbers 32:17 and the related verses in Joshua 1:14 and 4:12. Because of what the previous verse said about war, it may mean that they went out in formation—like an army would march—but perhaps not armed. Alternate translation: “And … in formation like an army”

1138EXO1319cxykוַ⁠יִּקַּ֥ח מֹשֶׁ֛ה אֶת־עַצְמ֥וֹת יוֹסֵ֖ף עִמּ֑⁠וֹ1

See Joshua 24:32 regarding the burial of Jospehs bones.

1139EXO1319dnlpפָּקֹ֨ד יִפְקֹ֤ד אֱלֹהִים֙ אֶתְ⁠כֶ֔ם וְ⁠הַעֲלִיתֶ֧ם אֶת־עַצְמֹתַ֛⁠י מִ⁠זֶּ֖ה אִתְּ⁠כֶֽם1

This is an almost exact quote of what Joseph said in Genesis 50:25; reference your translation there when translating this.

1140EXO13207v94מִ⁠סֻּכֹּ֑ת וַ⁠יַּחֲנ֣וּ בְ⁠אֵתָ֔ם1

“from a place named Succoth and they camped at a place named Etham”

1141EXO1320xq5dtranslate-namesבְ⁠אֵתָ֔ם1camped at Etham

Etham was possibly located south of the route heading towards the Philistines, at the border of the wilderness. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1142EXO1321yi2pfigs-metonymyוַֽ⁠יהוָ֡ה הֹלֵךְ֩ לִ⁠פְנֵי⁠הֶ֨ם1

Here, before their faces means “in front of the people.” Alternate translation: “And Yahweh led them by going in front of them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1143EXO1321jnv8בְּ⁠עַמּ֤וּד עָנָן֙…בְּ⁠עַמּ֥וּד אֵ֖שׁ1pillar of cloud…pillar of fire

“in a cloud in the shape of a column … in a fire in the shape of a column”

1144EXO13216pzkלְ⁠הָאִ֣יר לָ⁠הֶ֑ם1

“to be light for them”

1145EXO1321i7ylgrammar-connect-logic-resultאֵ֖שׁ לְ⁠הָאִ֣יר לָ⁠הֶ֑ם לָ⁠לֶ֖כֶת יוֹמָ֥ם וָ⁠לָֽיְלָה1

They could travel by either day or night because God provided light at night. You could reorder the cause and effect if that is more natural in your language. Alternate translation: “fire. They could go by day or by night because he was light to them.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

1146EXO1322iiujעַמּ֤וּד הֶֽ⁠עָנָן֙ יוֹמָ֔ם וְ⁠עַמּ֥וּד הָ⁠אֵ֖שׁ לָ֑יְלָה1

“the pillar of cloud by day or the pillar of fire by night”

1147EXO1322qxksfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֖י הָ⁠עָֽם1

Here, from the face of the people means “from in front of the people” where they could see it. Alternate translation: “from where they could see it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1148EXO14introjq4u0

Exodus 14 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter contains an important event in the history of Israel known as the “parting of the sea of reeds (Red Sea).” Throughout this chapter and chapter 15, the word “sea” is used. The context shows that this is the sea of reeds (Red Sea). Since the text does not explicitly say that though, the ULT will only say “sea.” In your translation, it may help people to be more specific than the text, if just using “sea” is confusing.

Special concepts in this chapter

Pharaohs hard heart

Pharaohs heart is often described as hard in this chapter. This means that his heart was not open or willing to understand Yahwehs instructions. When his heart was hardened, it became less and less receptive to Yahweh.

Pharaohs chariots

These chariots were a fighting force. Pharaoh took an army to kill the Hebrew people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Rhetorical Questions

The Israelites asked a few rhetorical questions of Moses. These questions were not really directed at Moses, but at Yahweh. This showed their lack of faith in Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])

1149EXO1425f0cfigs-quotemarksדַּבֵּר֮ 1

This verse begins a direct quote which continues into verse 4. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

1150EXO142mb4etranslate-namesפִּ֣י הַחִירֹ֔ת…מִגְדֹּ֖ל…בַּ֣עַל צְפֹ֔ן1Pi Hahiroth…Migdol…Baal Zephon

These are locations on Egypts eastern border. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1151EXO14274vgfigs-quotationsבְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵל֒ וְ⁠יָשֻׁ֗בוּ וְ⁠יַחֲנוּ֙ לִ⁠פְנֵי֙ פִּ֣י הַחִירֹ֔ת בֵּ֥ין מִגְדֹּ֖ל וּ⁠בֵ֣ין הַ⁠יָּ֑ם לִ⁠פְנֵי֙ בַּ֣עַל צְפֹ֔ן1

The portion after that could be translated as a direct quotation. That would make a second-level direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with second-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: “the sons of Israel, Turn and camp before the face of Pi Hahiroth, between Migdol and the sea, before the face of Baal Zephon. ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

1152EXO142c9r8figs-youdualתַחֲנ֖וּ 1You are to camp

Here, you is plural and refers to Moses and the Israelites. If your language uses different forms of “you” depending on the number of people addressed, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

1153EXO143c81bfigs-quotationsוְ⁠אָמַ֤ר פַּרְעֹה֙ לִ⁠בְנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל נְבֻכִ֥ים הֵ֖ם בָּ⁠אָ֑רֶץ סָגַ֥ר עֲלֵי⁠הֶ֖ם הַ⁠מִּדְבָּֽר1Pharaoh will say about the Israelites, They are wandering in the land. The wilderness has closed in on them.

This can be stated as an indirect quote. Alternate translation: “Pharaoh will say that the Israelites are confused in the land and the wilderness has closed in on them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

1154EXO143tz6jfigs-personificationסָגַ֥ר עֲלֵי⁠הֶ֖ם הַ⁠מִּדְבָּֽר1The wilderness has closed in on them

Pharaoh speaks of the wilderness as a person who has trapped the Israelites. If this might be confusing for your readers, you could express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “It is as if the wilderness is closing in on them.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

1155EXO144dv62figs-metaphorוְ⁠חִזַּקְתִּ֣י אֶת־לֵב־פַּרְעֹה֮1I will harden Pharaohs heart

This means God will make him stubborn. His stubborn attitude is spoken of as if his heart were strong. If the heart is not the body part your culture uses to refer to a persons will, consider using whichever organ your culture would use for this image. See how you translated this in 4:21. Alternate translation: “But I will cause Pharaoh to be stubborn” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1156EXO144tw2mוְ⁠רָדַ֣ף אַחֲרֵי⁠הֶם֒1he will pursue them

“and Pharaoh will pursue the Israelites”

1157EXO144d5x1figs-activepassiveוְ⁠אִכָּבְדָ֤ה 1I will get honor

If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “And people will glorify me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1158EXO144a7m2figs-ellipsisוְ⁠אִכָּבְדָ֤ה בְּ⁠פַרְעֹה֙ וּ⁠בְ⁠כָל־חֵיל֔⁠וֹ1

Yahweh is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be clearer in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “And I will be glorified because of what I do to Pharaoh and to all his army” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1159EXO144dms1figs-explicitוַ⁠יַּֽעֲשׂוּ־כֵֽן1So the Israelites camped as they were instructed

This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “So the Israelites turned and camped as Yahweh had instructed them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1160EXO145t4cnfigs-activepassiveוַ⁠יֻּגַּד֙ לְ⁠מֶ֣לֶךְ מִצְרַ֔יִם1When the king of Egypt was told

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Then someone told the king of Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1161EXO145it5sבָרַ֖ח1had fled

“had run away”

1162EXO145k67bfigs-metonymyוַ֠⁠יֵּהָפֵךְ לְבַ֨ב פַּרְעֹ֤ה וַ⁠עֲבָדָי⁠ו֙ אֶל־הָ⁠עָ֔ם1the minds of Pharaoh and his servants turned against the people

Here, heart refers to their attitudes towards the Israelites. Alternate translation: “and Pharaoh and his servants changed their attitude about the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1163EXO145go8ufigs-activepassiveוַ֠⁠יֵּהָפֵךְ לְבַ֨ב פַּרְעֹ֤ה וַ⁠עֲבָדָי⁠ו֙ אֶל־הָ⁠עָ֔ם1

If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “and Pharaoh and his servants turned their hearts to the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1164EXO145wljwאֶל־הָ⁠עָ֔ם1

“against the Israelites”

1165EXO145v236figs-rquestionמַה־זֹּ֣את עָשִׂ֔ינוּ כִּֽי־שִׁלַּ֥חְנוּ אֶת־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל מֵ⁠עָבְדֵֽ⁠נוּ1What have we done? We have released Israel from serving us.

They asked this question to show they thought they had done a foolish thing. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “We should not have let the Israelites go free from working for us!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1166EXO1452juzfigs-quotemarksמַה־זֹּ֣את עָשִׂ֔ינוּ כִּֽי־שִׁלַּ֥חְנוּ אֶת־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל מֵ⁠עָבְדֵֽ⁠נוּ1

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

1167EXO1459075grammar-collectivenounsיִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל 1

This is a collective singular noun. If your language would not refer to a group of people in this way, you may need to translate it as plural. Alternate translation: “the Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

1168EXO147ry11translate-numbersוַ⁠יִּקַּ֗ח שֵׁשׁ־מֵא֥וֹת רֶ֨כֶב֙ בָּח֔וּר1He took six hundred chosen chariots

“He took 600 of his best chariots” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1169EXO14774cgוְ⁠שָׁלִשִׁ֖ם1

The precise meaning of this term is not known. Alternate translations: “and officers” or “and shield-bearers” or “and three men”

1170EXO148a1r1figs-metaphorוַ⁠יְחַזֵּ֣ק יְהֹוָ֗ה אֶת־לֵ֤ב פַּרְעֹה֙1Yahweh hardened the heart of Pharaoh

This means God made him stubborn. His stubborn attitude is spoken of as if his heart were strong. If the heart is not the body part your culture uses to refer to a persons will, consider using whichever organ your culture would use for this image. See how you translated this in 4:21. Alternate translation: “And Yahweh caused Pharaoh to be stubborn” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1171EXO1483bkiבְּ⁠יָ֥ד רָמָֽה1

“boldly” or “defiantly”

1172EXO149929nכָּל־סוּס֙ רֶ֣כֶב פַּרְעֹ֔ה וּ⁠פָרָשָׁ֖י⁠ו וְ⁠חֵיל֑⁠וֹ1

It is unclear exactly what the groupings here are. Horses of the chariots (probably meaning “horse-drawn chariots”) and horsemen could be two groups or two references to the same group. Army could mean another group, perhaps on foot (see 15:19), or it could be a summary grouping. Furthermore, most translations render horses of the chariots as “horses and chariots,” suggesting four total groups (possibly because of v. 23). Alternate translation: “all the horse-drawn chariots of Pharaoh, and his horsemen, and his foot soldiers”

1173EXO149q0jo⁠יַּשִּׂ֤יגוּ אוֹתָ⁠ם֙ חֹנִ֣ים1

“the Israelites as they were camping”

1174EXO149sb7xtranslate-namesפִּי֙ הַֽחִירֹ֔ת…בַּ֥עַל צְפֹֽן1Pi Hahiroth…Baal Zephon

These are places on Egypts eastern border. See how you translated them in Exodus 14:2. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1175EXO1410s1xafigs-synecdocheוּ⁠פַרְעֹ֖ה הִקְרִ֑יב1When Pharaoh came close

Here, Pharaoh represents the entire Egyptian army. Alternate translation: “Then Pharaoh and his army approached” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1176EXO1410vyp9וַ⁠יִּשְׂאוּ֩ בְנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֨ל אֶת־עֵינֵי⁠הֶ֜ם1

“and the sons of Israel looked up” or “and the sons of Israel looked back”

1177EXO1410qcy1וְ⁠הִנֵּ֥ה1they were terrified

Behold is used to draw attention to surprising information that follows. Use a word, phrase, or structure in your language that indicates that the next information is very surprising.

1178EXO1411vzw5figs-rquestionהַֽ⁠מִ⁠בְּלִ֤י אֵין־קְבָרִים֙ בְּ⁠מִצְרַ֔יִם לְקַחְתָּ֖⁠נוּ לָ⁠מ֣וּת בַּ⁠מִּדְבָּ֑ר1Is it because there were no graves in Egypt, that you have taken us away to die in the wilderness?

The Israelites ask this question to express their frustration and fear of dying. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “There were plenty of graveyards in Egypt for us to be buried in. You did not have to take us into the wilderness to die!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1179EXO1411x4n2figs-rquestionמַה־זֹּאת֙ עָשִׂ֣יתָ לָּ֔⁠נוּ לְ⁠הוֹצִיאָ֖⁠נוּ מִ⁠מִּצְרָֽיִם1Why have you treated us like this, bringing us out of Egypt?

The Israelites ask this question to rebuke Moses for bringing them to the desert to die. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not have treated us like this by bringing us out of Egypt!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1180EXO1412itb2figs-rquestionהֲ⁠לֹא־זֶ֣ה הַ⁠דָּבָ֗ר אֲשֶׁר֩ דִּבַּ֨רְנוּ אֵלֶ֤י⁠ךָ בְ⁠מִצְרַ֨יִם֙1Is this not what we told you in Egypt?

The Israelites ask this question to emphasize that this is what they had told Moses. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “This is exactly what we told you while we were in Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1181EXO1412ix25figs-quotationsבְ⁠מִצְרַ֨יִם֙ לֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר חֲדַ֥ל מִמֶּ֖⁠נּוּ וְ⁠נַֽעַבְדָ֣ה אֶת־מִצְרָ֑יִם1We said to you, Leave us alone, so we can work for the Egyptians.

The portion following saying can be stated as an indirect quote. Alternate translation: “in Egypt? We told you to leave us alone so we could work for the Egyptians.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

1182EXO1413phy1figs-abstractnounsוּ⁠רְאוּ֙ אֶת־יְשׁוּעַ֣ת יְהוָ֔ה אֲשֶׁר־יַעֲשֶׂ֥ה לָ⁠כֶ֖ם הַ⁠יּ֑וֹם1

If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun salvation with a verb. Alternate translation: “and see that Yahweh will save you, he will do that for you today” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1183EXO14135j05figs-quotemarksאֶל־הָ⁠עָם֮1

After this phrase, a direct quote begins that continues until the end of verse 14. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

1184EXO1413rrd4לֹ֥א תֹסִ֛יפוּ לִ⁠רְאֹתָ֥⁠ם ע֖וֹד עַד־עוֹלָֽם1provide for you

This statement is very extended for emphasis on its certainty. Alternate translation: “you will not see them again forever”

1185EXO1414vcdcfigs-rpronounsיְהוָ֖ה יִלָּחֵ֣ם1

The form Yahweh himself is reflexive, emphasizing what Yahweh will do in contrast to what the Israelites will do. Alternate translation: “As for Yahweh, he will fight” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

1186EXO14140r44תַּחֲרִישֽׁוּ⁠ן1

Here, silent could mean “still.” The Israelites lack of action is in contrast to Yahwehs fighting. It is not a total lack of motion or sound. Alternate translation: “you will not fight”

1187EXO1415zsgkfigs-quotemarksאֶל־מֹשֶׁ֔ה1Why are you, Moses, continuing to call out to me?

After this phrase, a direct quote begins that continues until the end of verse 18. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this with an opening first-level quotation mark or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate the beginning of a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

1188EXO1415a727figs-rquestionמַה־תִּצְעַ֖ק אֵלָ֑⁠י1Why are you, Moses, continuing to call out to me?

Moses apparently had been praying to God for help, so God uses this question to compel Moses to act. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “Do not call out to me any longer, Moses.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1189EXO1416stlaהָרֵ֣ם אֶֽת־מַטְּ⁠ךָ֗ וּ⁠נְטֵ֧ה אֶת־יָדְ⁠ךָ֛1divide it in two

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding hand and staff.

1190EXO1416t3e4וּ⁠בְקָעֵ֑⁠הוּ1divide it in two

“and divide the sea into two parts”

1191EXO1417z5ubוַ⁠אֲנִ֗י הִנְ⁠נִ֤י1Be aware

Behold is a term meant to focus the attention of the listener on what the speaker is about to say. In this case Yahweh is drawing attention to his next actions. Alternate translation: “Look at what I will do”

1192EXO1417qd3lfigs-metaphorמְחַזֵּק֙ אֶת־לֵ֣ב מִצְרַ֔יִם1I will harden the Egyptians hearts

This means God will make them stubborn. Their stubborn attitude is spoken of as if their hearts were strong. If the heart is not the body part your culture uses to refer to a persons will, consider using whichever organ your culture would use for this image. See how you translated this in 4:21. Alternate translation: “I will cause the Egyptians to be stubborn” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1193EXO1417asz9וְ⁠יָבֹ֖אוּ אַחֲרֵי⁠הֶ֑ם1so they will go after them

“so that the Egyptians will go into the sea after the Israelites”

1194EXO1417hjyhfigs-ellipsisוְ⁠אִכָּבְדָ֤ה בְּ⁠פַרְעֹה֙ וּ⁠בְ⁠כָל־חֵיל֔⁠וֹ בְּ⁠רִכְבּ֖⁠וֹ וּ⁠בְ⁠פָרָשָֽׁי⁠ו1so they will go after them

Yahweh is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be clearer in your language, you could supply these words from the context. See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 4 Alternate translation: “And I will be glorified because of what I do to Pharaoh, all his army, his chariots, and his horsemen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1195EXO14175bbzfigs-activepassiveוְ⁠אִכָּבְדָ֤ה1so they will go after them

If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “And people will glorify me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1196EXO1418ytnmfigs-activepassiveבְּ⁠הִכָּבְדִ֣⁠י 1so they will go after them

If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “when I cause people to glorify me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1197EXO1418cji1figs-ellipsisבְּ⁠הִכָּבְדִ֣⁠י בְּ⁠פַרְעֹ֔ה בְּ⁠רִכְבּ֖⁠וֹ וּ⁠בְ⁠פָרָשָֽׁי⁠ו1so they will go after them

Yahweh is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be clearer in your language, you could supply these words from the context. See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 4 Alternate translation: “when I get glory because of what I do to Pharaoh, his chariots, and his horsemen” or “when I show my glory by what I do to Pharaoh, his chariots, and his horsemen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1198EXO1419hsihfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵי֙ מַחֲנֵ֣ה…מִ⁠פְּנֵי⁠הֶ֔ם1so they will go after them

Here, face means “front.” Alternate translation: “in front of the camp of … from in front of them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1199EXO1419ysv9grammar-collectivenounsיִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל1so they will go after them

This is a collective singular noun. If your language would not refer to a group of people in this way, you may need to translate it as plural. Alternate translation: “the Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

1200EXO1420jyz2grammar-collectivenounsיִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל 1so one side did not come near the other

This is a collective singular noun. If your language would not refer to a group of people in this way, you may need to translate it as plural. Alternate translation: “the Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

1201EXO1420c4u5וַ⁠יְהִ֤י הֶֽ⁠עָנָן֙ וְ⁠הַ⁠חֹ֔שֶׁךְ וַ⁠יָּ֖אֶר אֶת־הַ⁠לָּ֑יְלָה1so one side did not come near the other

“and the cloud became dark and light all night”

1202EXO1421qbzpוַ⁠יֵּ֨ט מֹשֶׁ֣ה אֶת־יָד⁠וֹ֮ עַל־הַ⁠יָּם֒1east wind

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

1203EXO1421dfx5בְּ⁠ר֨וּחַ קָדִ֤ים1east wind

An east wind originates in the east and blows towards the west.

1204EXO1421f9zhfigs-activepassiveוַ⁠יִּבָּקְע֖וּ הַ⁠מָּֽיִם1the waters were divided

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “And Yahweh divided the waters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1205EXO1424iz9ttranslate-unknownבְּ⁠אַשְׁמֹ֣רֶת הַ⁠בֹּ֔קֶר1He caused panic among the Egyptians

This is the last third of the night. It is approximately the three hours before sunrise. Alternate translation: “very early in the morning” or “in the time before the sun rises” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1206EXO14241ljqמַחֲנֵ֣ה מִצְרַ֔יִם…מַחֲנֵ֥ה מִצְרָֽיִם1He caused panic among the Egyptians

“the army of the Egyptians … the army of the Egyptians”

1207EXO1425qdp8figs-quotemarksאָנ֨וּסָה֙ מִ⁠פְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל כִּ֣י יְהוָ֔ה נִלְחָ֥ם לָ⁠הֶ֖ם בְּ⁠מִצְרָֽיִם1Their chariot wheels were clogged

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

1208EXO1425qzkwfigs-metonymyמִ⁠פְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל1Their chariot wheels were clogged

Here, the face of Israel means the presence of Israel. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1209EXO1426dfg1figs-quotemarksנְטֵ֥ה אֶת־יָדְ⁠ךָ֖ עַל־הַ⁠יָּ֑ם וְ⁠יָשֻׁ֤בוּ הַ⁠מַּ֨יִם֙ עַל־מִצְרַ֔יִם עַל־רִכְבּ֖⁠וֹ וְ⁠עַל־פָּרָשָֽׁי⁠ו1Yahweh said to Moses, “Reach out with your hand…and their horsemen.”

This is a direct quotation. It may be helpful to your readers to indicate this by marking it with first-level quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

1210EXO1426p5dsfigs-quotationsוַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר יְהוָה֙ אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֔ה נְטֵ֥ה אֶת־יָדְ⁠ךָ֖ עַל־הַ⁠יָּ֑ם וְ⁠יָשֻׁ֤בוּ הַ⁠מַּ֨יִם֙ עַל־מִצְרַ֔יִם עַל־רִכְבּ֖⁠וֹ וְ⁠עַל־פָּרָשָֽׁי⁠ו׃1Yahweh said to Moses, “Reach out with your hand…and their horsemen.”

This can be stated as an indirect quote. Alternate translation: “Yahweh told Moses to reach out with his hand over the sea so that the waters would come back onto the Egyptians, their chariots, and their horsemen.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

1211EXO1426pw8gנְטֵ֥ה אֶת־יָדְ⁠ךָ֖ עַל־הַ⁠יָּ֑ם1Yahweh said to Moses, “Reach out with your hand…and their horsemen.”

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

1212EXO1426d46ywriting-pronounsעַל־רִכְבּ֖⁠וֹ וְ⁠עַל־פָּרָשָֽׁי⁠ו1Yahweh said to Moses, “Reach out with your hand…and their horsemen.”

Here, his refers to Pharaoh, king of Egypt. Alternate translation: “on Pharaohs chariots, and on Pharaohs horsemen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

1213EXO1427wn3qוַ⁠יֵּט֩ מֹשֶׁ֨ה אֶת־יָד֜⁠וֹ עַל־הַ⁠יָּ֗ם1The Egyptians fled into the sea

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

1214EXO14271klzfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנ֥וֹת בֹּ֨קֶר֙1The Egyptians fled into the sea

Here, before the face of means “before the occurrence of.” Alternate translation: “before it was morning” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1215EXO1427h64rfigs-metaphorוַ⁠יְנַעֵ֧ר יְהוָ֛ה אֶת־מִצְרַ֖יִם בְּ⁠ת֥וֹךְ הַ⁠יָּֽם1Yahweh drove the Egyptians

Here, Yahweh is pictured as acting towards the Egyptians as if they were dirt or dust on his clothing that he shakes to be rid of them. Alternate translation: “and Yahweh threw the Egyptians back into the middle of the sea” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1216EXO1428o9qofigs-litotesלֹֽא־נִשְׁאַ֥ר בָּ⁠הֶ֖ם עַד־אֶחָֽד1Yahweh drove the Egyptians

This negative statement is meant to strongly convey the idea that all the Egyptians were gone. Alternate translation: “Every one of them was gone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

1217EXO1430zvbegrammar-collectivenounsיִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל1out of the hand of the Egyptians

This is a collective singular noun. If your language would not refer to a group of people in this way, you may need to translate it as plural. Alternate translation: “the Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

1218EXO1430e2lffigs-metonymyמִ⁠יַּ֣ד מִצְרָ֑יִם1out of the hand of the Egyptians

Here, hand refers to power. Alternate translation: “from the Egyptians power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1219EXO1430p5zwעַל־שְׂפַ֥ת הַ⁠יָּֽם1on the seashore

“on the land along the edge of the sea”

1220EXO1431o1ocgrammar-collectivenounsיִשְׂרָאֵ֜ל1on the seashore

This is a collective singular noun. If your language would not refer to a group of people in this way, you may need to translate it as plural. Alternate translation: “the Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

1221EXO1431np6sfigs-metonymyאֶת־הַ⁠יָּ֣ד הַ⁠גְּדֹלָ֗ה1on the seashore

Here, hand refers to power. Alternate translation: “the great power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1222EXO15introni4b0

Exodus 15 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Verses 1b-18 and 21b of chapter 15 verses are poetry. They are a song of praise to Yahweh because he defeated and destroyed the Egyptian army (Exodus 14:26-28.). Translating poetry should be done by someone who is a skilled poet in the target language. Because the forms of poetry are so different in different languages, a translation that is good poetry in the target language may seem very different from the original poem. The structure may look quite different. The poet will be well served by looking at the entire poem from multiple perspectives. He will need to know the meaning of the poem, the themes and discourse structure of the poem, and the feelings that the poem is supposed to create in the reader at each point (UST, tNotes). He will need to understand how that was accomplished by the original form and structure (ULT). Then he will need to compose the translated poem using forms and structures that have the same or similar meaning, themes, discourse elements, and feelings.

Structure

This song follows a basic AB structure which is given to us in verse 1b-c and 21b-c:

  • A - praise to Yahweh - he is magnificent (expressed in various words)
  • B - because he defeats our enemies

The song can be divided into three major sections, each of which is patterned as: AB(a)b. Each section starts with an AB portion which is characterized by fewer verbs (or participles, how to express) (especially the A portion). The section then elaborates on each. Note that there are other possible analyses of the structure of the poem.

Here is an outline of the structure according to this model:

  • Section 1 (see alternate breakdown below):
    • 1b: A “Let me sing to Yahweh, for he has triumphantly triumphed;”
    • 1c: B “the horse and the one riding it he threw into the sea.”
    • 2-3: a
    • 4-5: b
  • Section 2:
    • 6a: A
    • 6b: B
    • 7a: a “And in the abundance of your majesty”
    • 7a-10: b  “you overthrow those who rise up against you…”
  • Section 3:
    • 11: A
    • 12: B
    • 13a: a (possibly) “In your covenant loyalty”
    • 13a-17: b
  • 18: finale

Alternate breakdown of section 1: it is possible to view 1b-c as the introduction and divide verse 2 such that:

  • 2a: A “Yah is my strength and my song”
  • 2b: B “and he has become my salvation”
  • 2c-3: a
  • 4-5: b

Themes:

There are several images and themes that are throughout the song as well as some that are throughout an individual section.

  • “High” versus “low”: Yahweh is high, while his enemies are low.
    • The following words are all related to the idea of being high or rising up: triumph (v1), exalt (v2), majestic (v6, v11), majesty (v7), and the mountain of [Yahwehs] possession (v17). In the last case Yahwehs people are brought to a high place with him.
    • In contrast, his enemies are low. Note in verse 7, Yahweh overthrows those who rise up against [him]. Ideas of being low are as follows: sank (v4, v10), deeps (v5), descended into the depths (v5), melted away (v15), and fall on them (v16).
  • The strength of Yahweh in verses 2, 6, and 13.
  • The effectiveness of Yahwehs hand versus the enemy's hand. Yahwehs hand (and arm) is effective in verses 6, 12, 16, and 17 but the enemys hand is ineffective despite his boasting in verse 9.
  • There is parallel imagery near the end of each section. The enemy is compared three times by simile to a heavy, inert object. In verses 5 and 16 that is a stone, in verse 10 that is lead.
  • More parallel imagery occurs at the end of sections one (v5) and two (v10): that of the enemy sinking in the water and being covered by it.
  • In sections two and three the water (v8) and the other peoples (v16) are made still by Yahweh.
  • Section two begins and ends with majestic (v6, v10) and that word is picked up in the beginning of section three (v11).
  • In section two (v9), the enemies seek to dispossess (or disinherit) the Israelites; in section three (v16), the Israelites come to live in the land of Yahwehs possession (or inheritance).
  • In verse 11, three themes for the third section are introduced. These are each expanded on in that section.
    • Holiness occurs again in verses 13 and 16
    • Fear is vividly described in verses 14-16 (shake, terror, panic, trembling, melted away, dread)
    • Yahweh does miracles to protect and build a home for his people
  • Verses 14-16a are a chiasm, a complex parallel structure where concepts are repeated in reverse order:
    • A: 14a: peoples (nations) become afraid
    • B: 14b: inhabitants of Philistia are afraid
    • C: 15a: rulers of Edom are afraid
    • C': 15b: rulers of Moab are afraid
    • B': 15c: inhabitants of Canaan are afraid
    • A': 16a: people become afraid
  • In section three, there is another parallel structure:
    • v13: you led this people => v16: your people pass by
    • v13: this people you redeemed => v16: this people you acquired (or purchased or ransomed)
    • v13: you led them to the home => v17: you will bring them … [to] the place … you made
    • v13: of your holiness => v17: the holy place

Special concepts in this chapter

The Israelites discontent

In verse 24 the word murmur is introduced for the first time. This is a very strong term for “grumble” or “complain” that is used to describe the Israelites attitude throughout their time in the wilderness. It occurs several times in Exodus and Numbers.

Yahwehs laws

In verses 24-26, there is an introductory revelation of the requirement that Israel keep the covenant by obeying the law of Moses. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/reveal]])

1223EXO151kw29figs-explicitגָאֹ֣ה גָּאָ֔ה1he has triumphed gloriously

It can be stated explicitly over whom Yahweh triumphed. Alternate translation: “he has achieved a glorious victory over the army of Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1224EXO151bpyjגָאֹ֣ה גָּאָ֔ה1he has triumphed gloriously

“he is highly exalted” or “he is extremely high” or “he is exaltedly exalted”

1225EXO151f6uefigs-metaphorס֥וּס וְ⁠רֹכְב֖⁠וֹ רָמָ֥ה בַ⁠יָּֽם1the horse and its rider he has thrown into the sea

Moses sang about God causing the sea to cover and drown the horse and rider as if God had thrown them into the sea. Alternate translation: “he has made the horse and rider drown in the sea” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1226EXO151cr5ufigs-genericnounס֥וּס וְ⁠רֹכְב֖⁠וֹ1the horse and its rider

This refers to all or many of the Egyptian horses and riders that were chasing the Israelites. Alternate translation: “the horses and their riders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])

1227EXO151ex3pוְ⁠רֹכְב֖⁠וֹ1rider

Here, rider could either refer to a person who sits on a horse or who travels in a chariot that a horse is pulling.

1228EXO152pb23figs-metonymyעָזִּ֤⁠י…יָ֔הּ1Yahweh is my strength

Possible meanings are (1) “Yahweh is the one who gives me strength” or (2) “Yahweh is the strong one who protects me.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1229EXO152vk6lfigs-metonymyוְ⁠זִמְרָת֙ יָ֔הּ1song

Moses calls Yahweh his song because Yahweh is the one he sings about. Alternate translation: “the one I sing about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1230EXO152kbv7figs-metonymyוַֽ⁠יְהִי־לִ֖⁠י לִֽ⁠ישׁוּעָ֑ה1he has become my salvation

Moses calls Yahweh his salvation because Yahweh saved him. Alternate translation: “he has saved me” or “he is the one who saves me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1231EXO152rgtufigs-parallelismזֶ֤ה אֵלִ⁠י֙ וְ⁠אַנְוֵ֔⁠הוּ אֱלֹהֵ֥י אָבִ֖⁠י וַ⁠אֲרֹמְמֶֽ⁠נְהוּ1he has become my salvation

These lines are expressing very similar ideas for emphasis. If that is a normal way to make an emphatic (poetic) statement or if it would be understood in your language you can translate in a similar way. If, however, repetition like this would create a different meaning, find a structure in your language that would fit. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

1232EXO153p1d5figs-metaphorיְהוָ֖ה אִ֣ישׁ מִלְחָמָ֑ה1Yahweh is a warrior

Moses calls Yahweh a man of war because he powerfully fought against the Egyptians and won. Alternate translation: “Yahweh is like a warrior” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1233EXO154pc8dfigs-parallelismמַרְכְּבֹ֥ת פַּרְעֹ֛ה וְ⁠חֵיל֖⁠וֹ יָרָ֣ה בַ⁠יָּ֑ם וּ⁠מִבְחַ֥ר שָֽׁלִשָׁ֖י⁠ו טֻבְּע֥וּ בְ⁠יַם־סֽוּף1He has thrown Pharaohs chariots and army into the sea

These lines are synonymous parallels where the second strengthens what is said in the first. Alternate translation: “He threw all of Pharaohs army into the sea, including the chariots; even his chosen officers sank in the sea of reeds” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

1234EXO154p8w6figs-metaphorמַרְכְּבֹ֥ת פַּרְעֹ֛ה וְ⁠חֵיל֖⁠וֹ יָרָ֣ה בַ⁠יָּ֑ם1He has thrown Pharaohs chariots and army into the sea

Moses sings about Yahweh causing the sea to cover Pharaohs chariots and army as if Yahweh had thrown them into the sea. Alternate translation: “He has made Pharaohs chariot riders and army drown in the sea” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1235EXO1555dlxfigs-parallelismתְּהֹמֹ֖ת יְכַסְיֻ֑⁠מוּ יָרְד֥וּ בִ⁠מְצוֹלֹ֖ת כְּמוֹ־אָֽבֶן׃1they went down into the depths like a stone

These lines are synonymous parallels where the second clarifies what is said in the first. Alternate translation: “The deeps covered them; because they had descended into the depths like a stone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

1236EXO155nqe4figs-simileיָרְד֥וּ בִ⁠מְצוֹלֹ֖ת כְּמוֹ־אָֽבֶן1they went down into the depths like a stone

Just like a stone does not float but sinks to the bottom of the sea, the enemy soldiers sank to the bottom of the sea. Alternate translation: “they went down into the deep water like a stone sinking to the bottom of the sea” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1237EXO1565es4figs-parallelismיְמִֽינְ⁠ךָ֣ יְהוָ֔ה נֶאְדָּרִ֖י בַּ⁠כֹּ֑חַ יְמִֽינְ⁠ךָ֥ יְהוָ֖ה תִּרְעַ֥ץ אוֹיֵֽב׃1Your right hand, Yahweh, is glorious in power

These lines are synonymous parallels where the second takes the abstract idea in the first and makes it concrete (though still with poetic imagery). Alternate translation: “Yahweh, you show how majestic in power your right hand is by shattering the enemy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

1238EXO156x1fzfigs-metonymyיְמִֽינְ⁠ךָ֣ יְהוָ֔ה נֶאְדָּרִ֖י בַּ⁠כֹּ֑חַ1Your right hand, Yahweh, is glorious in power

Moses speaks of Yahweh as if Yahweh had hands. The right hand refers to Yahwehs power or the things Yahweh does powerfully. Alternate translation: “Yahweh, your power is glorious” or “Yahweh, what you do is gloriously powerful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1239EXO156p1u6figs-metonymyיְמִֽינְ⁠ךָ֥ יְהוָ֖ה תִּרְעַ֥ץ אוֹיֵֽב1your right hand, Yahweh, has shattered the enemy

Moses speaks of Yahweh as if Yahweh had hands. The right hand refers to Yahwehs power. Alternate translation: “Yahweh, your power has shattered the enemy” or “Yahweh, by your power you have shattered the enemy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1240EXO156rmd4figs-metaphorתִּרְעַ֥ץ אוֹיֵֽב1has shattered the enemy

Moses speaks of the enemy as if it were fragile and could be shattered like glass or pottery. Alternate translation: “completely destroys the enemy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1241EXO157i2x4figs-parallelismתַּהֲרֹ֣ס קָמֶ֑י⁠ךָ תְּשַׁלַּח֙ חֲרֹ֣נְ⁠ךָ֔ יֹאכְלֵ֖⁠מוֹ כַּ⁠קַּֽשׁ1those who rose up against you

These lines are synonymous parallels where the second takes the abstract idea in the first portion (you overthrow those who rise up against you) and makes it concrete (though still with poetic imagery). Alternate translation: “you overthrow those who rise up against you by sending out your heat to devour them like stubble” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

1242EXO157kmv4figs-abstractnounsוּ⁠בְ⁠רֹ֥ב גְּאוֹנְ⁠ךָ֖1those who rose up against you
1243EXO157nd3tfigs-metaphorקָמֶ֑י⁠ךָ 1those who rose up against you

Rebelling against Yahweh is spoken of as rising up against him. Alternate translation: “those who rebel against you” or “your enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1244EXO157kst4חֲרֹ֣נְ⁠ךָ֔1You sent out your wrath

“your wrath” or “your fury”

1245EXO157glq7figs-personificationתְּשַׁלַּח֙ חֲרֹ֣נְ⁠ךָ֔1You sent out your wrath

Moses speaks of Yahwehs wrath (literally heat) as if it were a servant that Yahweh sent out to do something. Alternate translation: “You show your wrath” or “You acted according to your wrath” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

1246EXO157a5x7figs-metaphorיֹאכְלֵ֖⁠מוֹ כַּ⁠קַּֽשׁ׃1it consumed them like stubble

Moses speaks of Gods wrath as if it were fire that could completely burn up things. His enemies were completely destroyed like stubble in a fire. Alternate translation: “it completely destroys your enemies like a fire that burns up straw” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1247EXO157guapfigs-simileיֹאכְלֵ֖⁠מוֹ כַּ⁠קַּֽשׁ1By the blast of your nostrils

Here the enemies (or those who rise up against Yahweh) are pictured as if they were a highly flammable piece of dried grass. Alternate translation: “it devoured the enemy as if they were stubble” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1248EXO158ic8vfigs-personificationוּ⁠בְ⁠ר֤וּחַ אַפֶּ֨י⁠ךָ֙1By the blast of your nostrils

Moses speaks of God as if God had a nose, and he speaks of the wind as if God blew the wind from his nose. Alternate translation: “You blew on the sea and” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

1249EXO158qg9gfigs-activepassiveוּ⁠בְ⁠ר֤וּחַ אַפֶּ֨י⁠ךָ֙ נֶ֣עֶרְמוּ מַ֔יִם נִצְּב֥וּ כְמוֹ־נֵ֖ד נֹזְלִ֑ים1By the blast of your nostrils

This can be expressed with an active form. Alternate translation: “The blast of your nostrils piled the waters up and made the flowing waters stand upright in a heap” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1250EXO158467efigs-parallelismנֶ֣עֶרְמוּ מַ֔יִם נִצְּב֥וּ כְמוֹ־נֵ֖ד נֹזְלִ֑ים קָֽפְא֥וּ תְהֹמֹ֖ת בְּ⁠לֶב־יָֽם1By the blast of your nostrils

These lines are synonymous parallels where each line means basically the same thing, but each gives the reader a different poetic image. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

1251EXO158uevtfigs-metaphorבְּ⁠לֶב־יָֽם1By the blast of your nostrils

The center or deepest part of the sea is spoken of as if the sea had a heart. Alternate translation: “in the center of the sea” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1252EXO159d8nkfigs-activepassiveתִּמְלָאֵ֣⁠מוֹ נַפְשִׁ֔⁠י1my desire will be satisfied on them

This can be expressed with an active form. Alternate translation: “I will satisfy my desire on them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1253EXO159lu0eתּוֹרִישֵׁ֖⁠מוֹ יָדִֽ⁠י1my hand will destroy them

The meaning of this phrase is unclear. The word translated dispossess could also mean ”possess” or ”inherit.” What seems clear is that the Egyptians plan to use their power to prevent the Israelites from possessing good things. Whether this is a reference back to plunder earlier in the verse, or to recapturing them as slaves, or to taking over the Israelites place in the land of Goshen, or of keeping them from reaching the promised land (of Yahwehs possession, see verse 17 regarding where Yahweh will bring his people), or something else is not so clear. Dispossess was chosen rather than another term because the verb is in a causative form here. Alternate translation: “my hand will possess them” or “my hand will inherit them”

1254EXO159sm77figs-metonymyתּוֹרִישֵׁ֖⁠מוֹ יָדִֽ⁠י1my hand will destroy them

Here hand is used figuratively of the Egyptians power (that is, their military strength). Alternate translation: “my power will dispossess them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1255EXO1510yrj5figs-metaphorנָשַׁ֥פְתָּ בְ⁠רוּחֲ⁠ךָ֖1But you blew with your wind

Moses spoke about God making the wind blow as if God blew the wind through his nose or mouth. Alternate translation: “But you made the wind blow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1256EXO1510f7d3figs-simileצָֽלֲלוּ֙ כַּֽ⁠עוֹפֶ֔רֶת בְּ⁠מַ֖יִם אַדִּירִֽים1sank like lead in the mighty waters

Lead is a heavy metal that is commonly used to make things sink in water. It is used here to show how fast Gods enemies were destroyed. Alternate translation: “sank as fast as a heavy piece of metal in the deep turbulent waters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1257EXO1511wq2sfigs-rquestionמִֽי־כָמֹ֤⁠כָה בָּֽ⁠אֵלִם֙ יְהוָ֔ה1Who is like you, Yahweh, among the gods?

Moses uses this question to show how great God is. Alternate translation: “O Yahweh, no one is like you among the gods!” or “Yahweh, none of the gods is like you!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1258EXO1511pp57figs-rquestionמִ֥י כָּמֹ֖⁠כָה נֶאְדָּ֣ר בַּ⁠קֹּ֑דֶשׁ נוֹרָ֥א תְהִלֹּ֖ת עֹ֥שֵׂה פֶֽלֶא1Who is like you,…doing miracles?

Moses uses this question to show how great God is. Alternate translation: “No one is like you. No one is majestic in holiness as you are, no one is honored in praises as you are, and no one does miracles as you do!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1259EXO1512cid8figs-metonymyיְמִ֣ינְ⁠ךָ֔ 1with your right hand

The phrase right hand represents the strong power of God. Alternate translation: “with your strong power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1260EXO1512bkg2figs-metaphorנָטִ֨יתָ֙ יְמִ֣ינְ⁠ךָ֔1You reached out with your right hand

Moses speaks about God causing something to happen as if God reached out with his hand. Alternate translation: “With your strong power you made it happen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1261EXO1512g7bvfigs-personificationתִּבְלָעֵ֖⁠מוֹ אָֽרֶץ1the earth swallowed them

Moses personifies the earth as if it could swallow or devour with its mouth. Alternate translation: “the earth devoured them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

1262EXO1513cveafigs-parallelismנָחִ֥יתָ בְ⁠חַסְדְּ⁠ךָ֖ עַם־ז֣וּ גָּאָ֑לְתָּ נֵהַ֥לְתָּ בְ⁠עָזְּ⁠ךָ֖1the earth swallowed them

These lines are structural parallels where the lines are saying similar things but the parallelism is more in the construction of the lines. In your is repeated and the concepts of led and guided are very similar to one another. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

1263EXO1514qlpyfigs-parallelism1tremble

Verses 14-16a form a complex parallel structure where things are repeated in reverse. (See the introduction to chapter 15 and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

1264EXO1514zi1mיִרְגָּז֑וּ⁠ן 1tremble

This means to shake because you are afraid.

1265EXO1514uqf7figs-personificationחִ֣יל אָחַ֔ז יֹשְׁבֵ֖י פְּלָֽשֶׁת1terror will seize the inhabitants of Philistia

Moses speaks of terror as if it were a person that could forcefully grab hold of someone and make them extremely afraid. Alternate translation: “the inhabitants of Philistia will be afraid” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

1266EXO1515qyixfigs-personificationאֵילֵ֣י מוֹאָ֔ב יֹֽאחֲזֵ֖⁠מוֹ רָ֑עַד1terror will seize the inhabitants of Philistia

Moses speaks of trembling as if it were a person that could forcefully grab hold of someone and make them extremely afraid. Alternate translation: “the leaders of Moab will be afraid” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

1267EXO1515ya48figs-metaphorנָמֹ֕גוּ 1will melt away

Moses uses the phrase, melted away, to speak of people becoming weak because of their fear. Alternate translation: “became weak from fear” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1268EXO1516nk67figs-doubletתִּפֹּ֨ל עֲלֵי⁠הֶ֤ם אֵימָ֨תָ⁠ה֙ וָ⁠פַ֔חַד1Terror and dread will fall on them

Terror and dread form a doublet meaning “very afraid.” Alternate translation: “They will become very afraid” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

1269EXO1516kbt5figs-metaphorתִּפֹּ֨ל עֲלֵי⁠הֶ֤ם אֵימָ֨תָ⁠ה֙ וָ⁠פַ֔חַד1Terror and dread will fall on them

Terror and dread are pictured as physical objects that could fall on people. The image might be of them crushing people or being a heavy weight that people struggle under (however, the image is not specified). It means that the people will feel the emotions of terror and dread very strongly. Alternate translation: “They will be overwhelmed with feelings of terror and dread” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1270EXO1516t2ypfigs-metonymyבִּ⁠גְדֹ֥ל זְרוֹעֲ⁠ךָ֖1Because of your arms power

Gods arm represents his great strength. Alternate translation: “Because of your great strength” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1271EXO1516umm7figs-simileיִדְּמ֣וּ כָּ⁠אָ֑בֶן1they will become as still as a stone

Possible meanings are (1) “They will be silent like stone” or (2) “They will be motionless as stone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1272EXO1517n5i5figs-explicitתְּבִאֵ֗⁠מוֹ וְ⁠תִטָּעֵ֨⁠מוֹ֙1You will bring them

Where God would bring them can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “You will take your people to Canaan and plant them there” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1273EXO1517u26jfigs-goתְּבִאֵ֗⁠מוֹ1You will bring them

Since Moses was not already in Canaan, some languages would use “take” rather than bring. Alternate translation: “You will take them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

1274EXO1517t6wgfigs-metaphorוְ⁠תִטָּעֵ֨⁠מוֹ֙ בְּ⁠הַ֣ר1plant them on the mountain

Moses speaks about God giving his people the land to live in as if they were a plant that God was planting. Alternate translation: “settle them on the mountain of” or “let them live on the mountain of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1275EXO1517p7kbבְּ⁠הַ֣ר נַחֲלָֽתְ⁠ךָ֔1the mountain of your inheritance

This refers to Mount Zion in the land of Canaan.

1276EXO1517ie26figs-metaphorבְּ⁠הַ֣ר נַחֲלָֽתְ⁠ךָ֔1of your inheritance

Moses speaks about God promising to give his people the mountain forever as if he were giving it to them as an inheritance. Alternate translation: “on the mountain that you have given them as an inheritance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1277EXO1517ytz3figs-metonymyכּוֹנְנ֥וּ יָדֶֽי⁠ךָ׃1that your hands have built

The phrase your hands refers to Gods power. Alternate translation: “that you have built by your power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1278EXO15184t2lיְהוָ֥ה׀ יִמְלֹ֖ךְ לְ⁠עֹלָ֥ם וָ⁠עֶֽד1that your hands have built

“Yahweh reigns forever and ever”

1279EXO1520g7s6translate-namesמִרְיָ֨ם 1Miriam…Aaron

Miriam was the older sister of Moses and Aaron. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1280EXO1520gam2translate-unknownהַ⁠תֹּ֖ף …בְּ⁠תֻפִּ֖ים 1tambourine

This is a musical instrument like a small drum that also has pieces of metal around the side that make a sound when shaken. Alternate translation: “timbrel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1281EXO15204f9kfigs-hyperboleוַ⁠תֵּצֶ֤אןָ כָֽל־הַ⁠נָּשִׁים֙ אַחֲרֶ֔י⁠הָ בְּ⁠תֻפִּ֖ים וּ⁠בִ⁠מְחֹלֹֽת1tambourine

Here, all may be a generalization, it may not have been every woman. It could be better to translate as a restrictive clause as in the UST. Alternate translation: “and every woman who went out after her had a tambourine and danced” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

1282EXO1521f6m3figs-explicitגָאֹ֣ה גָּאָ֔ה1he has triumphed gloriously

It can be stated explicitly over whom Yahweh triumphed. See how you translated this in Exodus 15:1. Alternate translation: “he has achieved a glorious victory over the army of Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1283EXO1521hvu1figs-metaphorס֥וּס וְ⁠רֹכְב֖⁠וֹ רָמָ֥ה בַ⁠יָּֽם1The horse and his rider he has thrown into the sea

Miriam sang about God causing the sea to cover and drown the horse and rider as if God had thrown them into the sea. See how you translated this in Exodus 15:1. Alternate translation: “he has made the horse and rider drown in the sea” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1284EXO1522iw9ngrammar-collectivenounsיִשְׂרָאֵל֙ 1Moses led Israel

The word Israel represents the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “Moses led the Israelite people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

1285EXO1522c7petranslate-namesמִדְבַּר־שׁ֑וּר1wilderness of Shur

We do not know the exact locations of this place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1286EXO1523a9pvtranslate-namesמָרָ֔תָ⁠ה 1Marah

We do not know the exact locations of this place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1287EXO1524n64mוַ⁠יִּלֹּ֧נוּ הָ⁠עָ֛ם עַל־מֹשֶׁ֥ה1complained to Moses and said

Murmur is a very strong term for “grumble” or “complain” that is used to describe the Israelites attitude throughout their time in the wilderness. It occurs several times in Exodus and Numbers. Alternate translation: “And the people were unhappy and told Moses” or “And the people angrily told Moses”

1288EXO1526l2hxfigs-123personלְ⁠ק֣וֹל׀ יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהֶ֗י⁠ךָ1the voice of Yahweh your God

Yahweh is speaking about his own voice. Alternate translation: “to my voice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

1289EXO152686p8figs-metonymyלְ⁠ק֣וֹל׀ יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהֶ֗י⁠ךָ1the voice of Yahweh your God

Yahwehs voice represents what he says. Alternate translation: “to what I say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1290EXO1526sq5xfigs-metaphorוְ⁠הַ⁠יָּשָׁ֤ר בְּ⁠עֵינָי⁠ו֙ תַּעֲשֶׂ֔ה1do what is right in his eyes

The eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: “and do what Yahweh considers to be right” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1291EXO15264e63figs-metaphorוְ⁠הַֽאֲזַנְתָּ֙ לְ⁠מִצְוֺתָ֔י⁠ו1do what is right in his eyes

The ear represents listening and listening represents obeying. Alternate translation: “and you carefully obey his commands” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1292EXO1526m4cnfigs-metaphorכָּֽל־הַ⁠מַּֽחֲלָ֞ה אֲשֶׁר־שַׂ֤מְתִּי בְ⁠מִצְרַ֨יִם֙ לֹא־אָשִׂ֣ים עָלֶ֔י⁠ךָ1I will put on you none of the diseases

God speaks of causing people to have diseases as putting diseases on them. Alternate translation: “I will not cause any of you to have the diseases that I cause the Egyptians to have” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1293EXO1527did8translate-namesאֵילִ֔מָ⁠ה 1Elim

This is an oasis in the desert, a place with water and shade trees. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1294EXO1527ark9translate-numbers1twelve

“twelve” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1295EXO1527p64ytranslate-numbersוְ⁠שִׁבְעִ֣ים 1seventy

“and seventy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1296EXO16intronkd70

Exodus 16 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Complaints

After complaining about the water, the Israelites complained that they had less food than in Egypt. This is intended to show their ungratefulness and their sinful view of Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])

Prohibition against storing food

The people were not allowed to store the food, called manna, that Yahweh provided to them. This is because they were to trust in Yahweh to provide for their needs every day. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]])

Sabbath

This is the first recorded celebration of the Sabbath rest. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sabbath]])

Possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Bread as food

Yahweh speaks of the food that he will send as if it were bread. The manna he gave them was perhaps not literally bread. The Israelites would eat this food every day, just as they had eaten bread every day before this. Alternate translations: “food” or “food like bread” (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/other/bread]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

Chronology

Verses 34-36 are written from a much later perspective. Translators will need to find a way to show that this portion gives background information from a much later point (at least 40 years).

Ark of the covenant

Related to the chronology issue, although the covenant has not yet been made, it is referenced in Exodus 16:34. This is probably an editorial comment made after these events. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])

Wilderness of Sin

Sin is the name of a part of the Sinai Wilderness. It is the description of a place, and it has nothing to do with sinning. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1297EXO161gw67translate-namesסִ֔ין 1wilderness of Sin

The word Sin here is the Hebrew name of the wilderness. It is not the English word “sin.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1298EXO161h44xtranslate-hebrewmonthsבַּ⁠חֲמִשָּׁ֨ה עָשָׂ֥ר יוֹם֙ לַ⁠חֹ֣דֶשׁ הַ⁠שֵּׁנִ֔י1on the fifteenth day of the second month

This time coincides with the end of April and the beginning of May on Western calendars. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths]])

1299EXO161u2aqtranslate-ordinalבַּ⁠חֲמִשָּׁ֨ה עָשָׂ֥ר יוֹם֙ לַ⁠חֹ֣דֶשׁ הַ⁠שֵּׁנִ֔י1on the fifteenth day of the second month

“on day 15 of the second month” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1300EXO162h938figs-hyperboleוַיִּלּ֜וֹנוּ כָּל־עֲדַ֧ת בְּנֵי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֛ל1The whole community of Israelites complained

Here, all is a generalization. Alternate translation: “And many of the community of the sons of Israel murmured” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

1301EXO162nx6fוַיִּלּ֜וֹנוּ1complained

“And … were angry and spoke”

1302EXO163nwy6figs-hypoמִֽי־יִתֵּ֨ן מוּתֵ֤⁠נוּ1If only we had died

This is a way of saying that they wished that they had died. It is a hypothetical past statement. Alternate translation: “We wish that we had died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])

1303EXO163g1n1figs-metonymyבְ⁠יַד־יְהוָה֙1by Yahwehs hand

The phrase the hand of Yahweh represents Yahwehs action. Alternate translation: “by Yahwehs action” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1304EXO164kls5figs-metaphorמַמְטִ֥יר לָ⁠כֶ֛ם לֶ֖חֶם מִן־הַ⁠שָּׁמָ֑יִם1I will rain down bread from heaven for you

God speaks of food coming down from heaven as if it were rain. Alternate translation: “make bread come down from heaven like rain” or “make bread fall to you from the sky” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1305EXO164yew5בְּ⁠תוֹרָתִ֖⁠י 1my law

“in my instruction”

1306EXO165p1f6וְ⁠הָיָה֙ בַּ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠שִּׁשִּׁ֔י וְ⁠הֵכִ֖ינוּ1It will come about on the sixth day, that they

“It will happen on the sixth day that they will prepare” or “On the sixth day they will prepare”

1307EXO165cl74translate-ordinalבַּ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠שִּׁשִּׁ֔י1on the sixth day

“on day 6” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1308EXO165t5ilמִשְׁנֶ֔ה 1twice

two times

1309EXO167zb21figs-rquestionוְ⁠נַ֣חְנוּ מָ֔ה כִּ֥י תלונו עָלֵֽי⁠נוּ1Who are we for you to complain against us?

Moses and Aaron used this question to show the people that it was foolish to complain against them. Alternate translation: “We are not powerful enough for you to complain against us.” or “It is foolish to complain against us, because we cannot do what you want.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1310EXO168pn4efigs-rquestionוְ⁠נַ֣חְנוּ מָ֔ה1Who are Aaron and I?

Moses used this question to show the people that he and Aaron did not have the power to give them what they wanted. Alternate translation: “Aaron and I cannot give you what you want.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1311EXO168vdr8figs-explicitוְ⁠נַ֣חְנוּ מָ֔ה לֹא־עָלֵ֥י⁠נוּ תְלֻנֹּתֵי⁠כֶ֖ם כִּ֥י עַל־יְהוָֽה1Your complaints are not against us; they are against Yahweh

The people were complaining against Moses and Aaron, who were Yahwehs servants. So by complaining against them, the people were really complaining against Yahweh. Alternate translation: “Your complaints are not really against us; they are against Yahweh, because we are his servants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1312EXO1697jpffigs-quotesinquotesוַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר מֹשֶׁה֙ אֶֽל־אַהֲרֹ֔ן אֱמֹ֗ר אֶֽל־כָּל־עֲדַת֙ בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל קִרְב֖וּ1Your complaints are not against us; they are against Yahweh

There are two layers of quotes here. You may want to translate one or the other as an indirect quotation in order to reduce the layers of quotations in this passage. Alternative translation: “And Moses told Aaron to tell all of the congregation of the sons of Israel, “Approach” or “And Moses told Aaron, “Tell all of the congregation of the sons of Israel to approach” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

1313EXO1610q4axוַ⁠יְהִ֗י 1It came about

This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. The important event here is the people seeing Yahwehs glory. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

1314EXO1610b6rpוְ⁠הִנֵּה֙ 1behold

The word behold here shows that the people saw something interesting.

1315EXO1613aas8וַ⁠יְהִ֣י1It came about…that

This phrase is used here to mark an important part of the events. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

1316EXO1613eu1xtranslate-unknownהַ⁠שְּׂלָ֔ו 1quails

These are small, plump birds. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1317EXO1614k5lbtranslate-unknownכַּ⁠כְּפֹ֖ר1like frost

Frost is frozen dew that forms on the ground. It is very fine. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1318EXO1614jernfigs-simileכַּ⁠כְּפֹ֖ר1like frost

The original readers knew what frost is like, so this phrase would help them understand what the flakes were like. Alternate translation: “that looked like frost” or “that was fine like frost” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1319EXO1616gotfאִ֖ישׁ לְ⁠פִ֣י אָכְל֑⁠וֹ1omer

“according to how much each will eat”

1320EXO1616fqp9translate-bvolumeעֹ֣מֶר 1omer

2 liters (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume]])

1321EXO1616mnwyעֹ֣מֶר לַ⁠גֻּלְגֹּ֗לֶת מִסְפַּר֙ נַפְשֹׁ֣תֵי⁠כֶ֔ם אִ֛ישׁ לַ⁠אֲשֶׁ֥ר בְּ⁠אָהֳל֖⁠וֹ תִּקָּֽחוּ1omer

“take an omer per person according to how many people are in the gatherers tent”

1322EXO1620itjoוַ⁠יָּ֥רֻם תּוֹלָעִ֖ים1omer

“and it decayed with worms”

1323EXO1621jd5tאִ֖ישׁ כְּ⁠פִ֣י אָכְל֑⁠וֹ1omer

“everyone according to how much they would eat” or “everyone according to how many people they had to feed”

1324EXO1622nrx8writing-neweventוַ⁠יְהִ֣י1It came about that

This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. Verses 16:22-30 tell about what the people did concerning the manna on the sixth and seventh days of the week. If your language has a way for marking this as a new part of the story, you could consider using it here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

1325EXO1622xk6xtranslate-ordinalבַּ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠שִּׁשִּׁ֗י1on the sixth day

“on day 6” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1326EXO1622zj1uמִשְׁנֶ֔ה 1twice

“two times as much”

1327EXO1622f4j9לֶ֨חֶם֙ 1bread

This refers to the bread that appeared as thin flakes on the ground each morning.

1328EXO1623wc4aשַׁבָּת֧וֹן שַׁבַּת־קֹ֛דֶשׁ לַֽ⁠יהוָ֖ה1a solemn rest

“is a day to stop working completely and dedicate to Yahweh”

1329EXO1624y4d9וְ⁠לֹ֣א הִבְאִ֔ישׁ1did not become foul

“And it did not smell rotten”

1330EXO1625pr1pכִּֽי־שַׁבָּ֥ת הַ⁠יּ֖וֹם לַ⁠יהוָ֑ה1today is a day reserved as a Sabbath to honor Yahweh

“today is a Sabbath, a day to honor Yahweh by not working”

1331EXO1626jv77translate-ordinalוּ⁠בַ⁠יּ֧וֹם הַ⁠שְּׁבִיעִ֛י1but the seventh day

“but on day seven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1332EXO1627qf14וְ⁠לֹ֖א מָצָֽאוּ1they found none

“but they did not find any manna”

1333EXO1628e1vxfigs-rquestionעַד־אָ֨נָה֙ מֵֽאַנְתֶּ֔ם לִ⁠שְׁמֹ֥ר מִצְוֺתַ֖⁠י וְ⁠תוֹרֹתָֽ⁠י1How long will you refuse to keep my commandments and my laws?

God used this question to scold the people because they did not obey his laws. Alternate translation: “You people still do not keep my commandments and laws!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1334EXO1628q41dfigs-youcrowdמֵֽאַנְתֶּ֔ם 1General Information:

Yahweh speaks to Moses, but the word you refers to the people of Israel in general. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd]])

1335EXO1628vnq7לִ⁠שְׁמֹ֥ר מִצְוֺתַ֖⁠י וְ⁠תוֹרֹתָֽ⁠י1to keep my commandments and my laws

“to obey my commandments and my laws”

1336EXO1629p22lfigs-metaphorכִּֽי־יְהוָה֮ נָתַ֣ן לָ⁠כֶ֣ם הַ⁠שַּׁבָּת֒1Yahweh has given you the Sabbath

Yahweh speaks about teaching people to rest on the Sabbath as if the Sabbath were a gift. Alternate translation: “I, Yahweh, have taught you to rest on the Sabbath” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1337EXO1629dt58translate-ordinalבַּ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠שִּׁשִּׁ֖י…בַּ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠שְּׁבִיעִֽי1sixth day…two days…seventh day

“on day 6 … on day 7” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1338EXO1629y8wfלֶ֣חֶם 1bread

This refers to the bread that appeared as thin flakes on the ground each morning.

1339EXO16295i2zיוֹמָ֑יִם1bread

“for 2 days”

1340EXO1631r1a5translate-unknownכְּ⁠זֶ֤רַע גַּד֙ לָבָ֔ן1coriander seed

Coriander is an herb also known as cilantro. People eat both the leaves and seeds. People dry the seeds and grind them into a powder and put it in food to give it flavor. Alternate translation: “like a small white seed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1341EXO1631vrl4כְּ⁠צַפִּיחִ֥ת 1wafers

Wafers are very thin biscuits or crackers.

1342EXO16337lupfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה1wafers

Here, face figuratively represents the presence of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “in the presence of Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1343EXO1634x9vrwriting-background1wafers

Verses 34-36 provide a later commentary on the chapter. If your language has a way of marking background information you may want to use it starting from verse 34 or verse 35. You may want to leave verse 34 more connected to verse 33 even though it references the Covenant which has not been given yet. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1344EXO1634jzczfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֥י הָ⁠עֵדֻ֖ת1wafers

Here, face figuratively represents being near the Covenant. Alternate translation: “near the Covenant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1345EXO1636g8nstranslate-bvolumeוְ⁠הָ⁠עֹ֕מֶר עֲשִׂרִ֥ית הָ⁠אֵיפָ֖ה הֽוּא1Now an omer is a tenth of an ephah

An omer and an ephah are both containers for measuring volume. The original readers would have known how much an ephah was. This sentence would help them know how much an omer was.(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume]])

1346EXO1636a9uhtranslate-fractionוְ⁠הָ⁠עֹ֕מֶר עֲשִׂרִ֥ית הָ⁠אֵיפָ֖ה הֽוּא1Now an omer is a tenth of an ephah

For languages that do not use fractions, this can be reworded. Alternate translation: “Now ten omers equal one ephah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

1347EXO17introf12q0

Exodus 17 General Notes

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Rhetorical Questions

Moses uses several rhetorical questions in this chapter. The purpose of these questions is to convince people of their sin. Likewise, the peoples rhetorical question showed their ignorance. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Wilderness of Sin

Sin is the name of a part of the Sinai Wilderness. It is not the description of a place, and it has nothing to do with sinning. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

Naming

As in the last couple of chapters, places and things are named for what happens in that location. In this chapter is Massah (which means “test”), Meribah (“arguing”), and an alter named “Yahweh is my Banner” because Yahweh will be at war with the Amalekites forever.

1348EXO171jzz5writing-neweventוַ֠⁠יִּסְעוּ כָּל־עֲדַ֨ת בְּנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֧ל1wilderness of Sin

A new scene begins here, which may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

1349EXO171h1litranslate-namesסִ֛ין 1wilderness of Sin

The word “Sin” here is the Hebrew name of the wilderness. It is not the English word “sin.” See how you translated this in Exodus 16:1. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1350EXO171e7jvfigs-metonymyעַל־פִּ֣י יְהוָ֑ה1wilderness of Sin

Here, mouth is a refers figuratively to Yahwehs commands (that is, what he says to do). Alternate translation: “at the command of Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1351EXO171j1fmtranslate-namesבִּ⁠רְפִידִ֔ים 1Rephidim

Rephidim means “the resting place,” a place to rest on long journeys through the wilderness. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1352EXO172hr9bfigs-rquestionמַה־תְּרִיבוּ⁠ן֙ עִמָּדִ֔⁠י מַה־תְּנַסּ֖וּ⁠ן אֶת־יְהוָֽה1Why do you quarrel with me? Why do you test Yahweh?

Moses uses these questions to scold the people. Alternate translation: “You should not quarrel with me! You should not test Yahweh!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1353EXO173cz24figs-rquestionלָ֤⁠מָּה זֶּה֙ הֶעֱלִיתָ֣⁠נוּ מִ⁠מִּצְרַ֔יִם לְ⁠הָמִ֥ית אֹתִ֛⁠י וְ⁠אֶת־בָּנַ֥⁠י וְ⁠אֶת־מִקְנַ֖⁠י בַּ⁠צָּמָֽא1To kill us and our children and our cattle with thirst?

The people use this question to accuse Moses of wanting to kill them. Alternate translation: “You only brought us out here to kill us and our children and cattle by not letting us have any water to drink!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1354EXO176nspcfigs-metonymyלְ⁠פָנֶ֨י⁠ךָ1To kill us and our children and our cattle with thirst?

Here, before your face means “in front of”. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1355EXO177x5antranslate-namesמַסָּ֖ה 1Massah

Massah is a place in the desert whose name means “testing” in Hebrew. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1356EXO177hw7ytranslate-namesוַ⁠יִּקְרָא֙ 1Meribah

Meribah is a place in the desert whose name means “complaining” in Hebrew. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1357EXO177m55eאִם־אָֽיִן1Meribah

In some languages it may be unnatural to explicitly have the negative option included in this question or to have it at the end. It may be omitted or relocated in the question if that is the case.

1358EXO178nyt1writing-neweventוַ⁠יָּבֹ֖א עֲמָלֵ֑ק 1Rephidim

A new scene begins here, which may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

1359EXO178hi3ugrammar-collectivenounsעֲמָלֵ֑ק…יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל1Rephidim

Amalek and Israel are both collective nouns that refer to the nations (people groups) descended from that individual. Alternate translation: “the Amalekites … the Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

1360EXO178srdqwriting-participantsעֲמָלֵ֑ק 1Rephidim

Amalek or the Amalekites are a completely new participant in the story which you may need to point out in your translation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

1361EXO178rv14translate-namesבִּ⁠רְפִידִֽם1Rephidim

Rephidim was the name of a place in the desert. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1362EXO179iktntranslate-namesיְהוֹשֻׁ֨עַ֙ 1Rephidim

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1363EXO1790oi0writing-participantsיְהוֹשֻׁ֨עַ֙ 1Rephidim

Joshua is a completely new participant in the story which you may need to point out in your translation. He is a major character. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

1364EXO1710ca3gfigs-synecdocheוַ⁠יַּ֣עַשׂ יְהוֹשֻׁ֗עַ כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֤ר אָֽמַר־ל⁠וֹ֙ מֹשֶׁ֔ה לְ⁠הִלָּחֵ֖ם בַּ⁠עֲמָלֵ֑ק1So Joshua fought Amalek

Joshua represents himself and the Israelites that he led into battle. Alternate translation: “And, as Moses instructed, Joshua and the men he chose fought against the Amalekites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1365EXO1710wy51translate-namesוְ⁠ח֔וּר 1Hur

Hur was a friend of Moses and Aaron. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1366EXO1710itcxwriting-participantsוְ⁠ח֔וּר 1Hur

Hur is a new participant in the story which you may need to point out in your translation. However, he is a very minor character. He only appears in this passage and once much later in the book, so you may not need to highlight him at all. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

1367EXO1711x5exfigs-synecdocheוְ⁠גָבַ֣ר יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל…וְ⁠גָבַ֥ר עֲמָלֵֽק1Israel was winning…Amalek would begin to win

The words “Israel” and “Amalek” represent the fighters from those groups. Alternate translation: “the Israelite fighters were winning … the Amalekite fighters would begin to win” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1368EXO1712hxt8figs-metonymyוִ⁠ידֵ֤י מֹשֶׁה֙ כְּבֵדִ֔ים1hands became heavy

The author writes of Moses arms becoming tired as if his hands became heavy. Alternate translation: “And Moses arms became tired” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1369EXO1712js2pמִ⁠זֶּ֤ה אֶחָד֙ וּ⁠מִ⁠זֶּ֣ה אֶחָ֔ד1hands became heavy

“one on one side, and one on the other”

1370EXO1713plp3figs-metonymyלְ⁠פִי־חָֽרֶב1with the sword

The sword represents battle. Alternate translation: “in the battle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1371EXO1714c5rlfigs-metaphorמָחֹ֤ה אֶמְחֶה֙ אֶת־זֵ֣כֶר עֲמָלֵ֔ק1I will completely blot out the memory of Amalek

God speaks of destroying Amalek as if he were removing peoples memory of Amalek. When a group of people is completely destroyed, there is nothing to remind people about them. Alternate translation: “I will completely destroy Amalek” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1372EXO1714jm77figs-metonymyעֲמָלֵ֔ק 1Amalek

This refers to the Amalekites. Alternate translation: Amalekites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1373EXO1714n42jfigs-metonymyמִ⁠תַּ֖חַת הַ⁠שָּׁמָֽיִם1Amalek

This phrase is used to represent all people everywhere. Alternate translation: “from all people every where” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1374EXO1715fnegנִסִּֽ⁠י1Amalek

Banner is something lifted up high, perhaps like a flag, that people can see from a distance and follow. Alternate translation: “is my military standard” or “is my guidon”

1375EXO1716lr14כִּֽי־יָד֙ עַל־כֵּ֣ס יָ֔הּ1Amalek

The Hebrew here is very difficult and there are a variety of opinions regarding the meaning. Questions include: 1) Whose hand is referred to? Amaleks, Yahwehs, or Moses? 2) What is the hand on (or against)? Yahwehs throne or banner? 3) What is the meaning of the preposition meaning on, against, or above? What does that signify? Rebellion, or taking an oath, or holding onto a symbol of power? If there is another translation in your region, it may be best to simply follow the interpretation it gives. Alternate translation: “Because a hand was on the throne of Yah” or “Because a hand was on the banner of Yah”

1376EXO1716sw1qמִלְחָמָ֥ה לַ⁠יהוָ֖ה בַּֽ⁠עֲמָלֵ֑ק1Amalek

This phrase has no verbs in Hebrew. You may need to translate the noun war as a verb. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will make war with Amalek” or “Yahweh will war against Amalek”

1377EXO18introt8g20

Exodus 18 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Leadership lessons

Jethro taught Moses an important leadership lesson in this chapter. Many scholars look at this chapter for important leadership lessons. Moses delegated some of his responsibilities to other godly men so that he would not become worn out by all the demands made of him. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/godly]])

Possible translation difficulties

Order of events

The timing of the events in verse 2 is not clear and whatever their timing, may be difficult to translate. The question is: Is Jethros taking Zipporah related to the past event of Moses sending her back to him at some otherwise unmentioned point in time, or is Jethros taking related to his coming to meet Moses in verse 5.

Verse 11

Verse 11 is difficult in the original and requires interpretation.

God and Yahweh

For this chapter God, who is named Yahweh, is mostly referred to as God instead by his name as is usual in much of the rest of the book. Translations should not suggest that they are not different beings.

Kinship: Father-in-law

Jethro is the father of Moses wife. Some languages may make a distinction between that and a womans father-in-law. If that is the case, note it in verses: 1-2, 5-8, 12, 14-15, 17, 24, and 27. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-kinship]])

Participant reference

Jethro is often referred to simply as the father-in-law of Moses in this chapter. He is also named explicitly an unusually high number of times (it would be more usual to have more pronouns referring to him). This is likely to emphasize his familial ties and authority (or honored status). Some languages may need to use alter the way he is referred to for naturalness or to convey the same sense of familial ties and authority (or honored status).

1378EXO181nl86figs-kinshipחֹתֵ֣ן מֹשֶׁ֔ה1Moses father-in-law

This refers to the father of the wife of Moses. Some languages may have a different term for a mans father-in-law than for a womans. Note also in verses: 2, 5-8, 12, 14-15, 17, 24, and 27. Alternate translation: “the father of the wife of Moses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-kinship]])

1379EXO182zw6hוַ⁠יִּקַּ֗ח יִתְרוֹ֙ חֹתֵ֣ן מֹשֶׁ֔ה אֶת־צִפֹּרָ֖ה אֵ֣שֶׁת מֹשֶׁ֑ה1took Zipporah, Moses wife

Possible meanings are (1) Jethro took Zipporah to Moses, or (2) Jethro had earlier welcomed back Zipporah.

1380EXO182chy6figs-explicitאַחַ֖ר שִׁלּוּחֶֽי⁠הָ1after he had sent her home

This is something Moses had done earlier. The full meaning of the can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “after Moses had sent her home to her father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1381EXO183khs1וְ⁠אֵ֖ת שְׁנֵ֣י בָנֶ֑י⁠הָ1and her two sons

This is the ending of the sentence that begins with the words Jethro…took Zipporah in verse 2. Possible meanings are (1) Jethro took Zipporah and her two sons to Moses, or (2) Jethro had earlier welcomed back Zipporah and her two sons.

1382EXO183k4mbtranslate-namesגֵּֽרְשֹׁ֔ם1Gershom

This is a son of Moses and Zipporah, whose name means “foreigner.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1383EXO184xi35translate-namesאֱלִיעֶ֑זֶר 1Eliezer

This is a son of Moses and Zipporah, whose name means “God is the one who helps me.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1384EXO184z2kmfigs-metonymyמֵ⁠חֶ֥רֶב פַּרְעֹֽה1Pharaohs sword

This represents being killed by Pharaoh or Pharaohs army. Alternate translation: “from being killed by Pharaoh” or “from being killed by Pharaohs army” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1385EXO185203eוּ⁠בָנָ֥י⁠ו 1where he was camped

“with his sons”

1386EXO187s5p2translate-symactionוַ⁠יִּשְׁתַּ֨חוּ֙ וַ⁠יִּשַּׁק־ל֔⁠וֹ1bowed down, and kissed him

These symbolic acts were the normal way that people showed great respect and devotion in that culture. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

1387EXO188rkq2figs-metonymyעַ֖ל אוֹדֹ֣ת יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל1for Israels sake

The word Israel represents the Israelite people. Alternate translation: “in order to help the Israelite people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1388EXO188a1rafigs-metaphorכָּל־הַ⁠תְּלָאָה֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר מְצָאָ֣תַ⁠ם1all the hardships that had come to them

Moses writes of hardships happening to them as if hardships had come to them. Alternate translation: “all the hardships that had happened to them” or “how they had many hard experiences” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1389EXO189wp1pfigs-metonymyמִ⁠יַּ֥ד מִצְרָֽיִם1the hand of the Egyptians

The hand represents the power of someone to do something. Alternate translation: “the power of the Egyptians” or “from what the Egyptians were doing to them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1390EXO1810nrv7figs-metonymyמִ⁠יַּ֥ד מִצְרַ֖יִם וּ⁠מִ⁠יַּ֣ד פַּרְעֹ֑ה…מִ⁠תַּ֖חַת יַד־מִצְרָֽיִם1the hand of the Egyptians…the hand of Pharaoh

The hand represents the power of someone to do something. Alternate translation: “from the power of the Egyptians and from the power of Pharaoh … from the power of the Egyptians” or “from what the Egyptians and Pharaoh were doing to you … from what the Egyptians were doing to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1391EXO1811kmk7כִּ֣י בַ⁠דָּבָ֔ר1the hand of the Egyptians…the hand of Pharaoh

Because of the matter probably refers back to Yahwehs rescue of Israel. Alternate translation: “because of what he did”

1392EXO1811ljj6אֲשֶׁ֥ר זָד֖וּ עֲלֵי⁠הֶֽם1the hand of the Egyptians…the hand of Pharaoh

The most natural referent for they is the gods, who, perhaps through their agents (Pharaoh and the Egyptians), fought against Yahweh and oppressed the Israelites. This would connect back to Exodus 12:12 where Yahweh declares that he is bring judgment on the gods of Egypt. You may need to make some part of this explicit. Alternate translation: “in which they proudly fought Yahweh by oppressing Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1393EXO1812voi9figs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֥י הָ⁠אֱלֹהִֽים1the hand of the Egyptians…the hand of Pharaoh

Here, face figuratively represents the presence of God. In this case it likely means that this was a worship event. Alternate translation: “in the presence of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1394EXO18134plhwriting-neweventוַ⁠יְהִי֙ מִֽ⁠מָּחֳרָ֔ת1the hand of the Egyptians…the hand of Pharaoh

A new scene begins here, which may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

1395EXO1813ano2translate-symactionוַ⁠יֵּ֥שֶׁב מֹשֶׁ֖ה לִ⁠שְׁפֹּ֣ט1the hand of the Egyptians…the hand of Pharaoh

Sitting was symbolic of having a position of authority. Alternate translation: “Moses sat down as a judge” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

1396EXO1813wzeaמִן־הַ⁠בֹּ֖קֶר עַד־הָ⁠עָֽרֶב1the hand of the Egyptians…the hand of Pharaoh

“all day”

1397EXO1814bax5figs-rquestionמָֽה־הַ⁠דָּבָ֤ר הַ⁠זֶּה֙ אֲשֶׁ֨ר אַתָּ֤ה עֹשֶׂה֙ לָ⁠עָ֔ם1What is this that you are doing with the people?

Jethro uses this question to show Moses that what he was doing was not good. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not be doing all of this for the people!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1398EXO1814b5wjfigs-rquestionמַדּ֗וּעַ אַתָּ֤ה יוֹשֵׁב֙ לְ⁠בַדֶּ֔⁠ךָ וְ⁠כָל־הָ⁠עָ֛ם נִצָּ֥ב עָלֶ֖י⁠ךָ מִן־בֹּ֥קֶר עַד־עָֽרֶב1Why is it that you sit alone…from morning until evening?

Jethro used this question to show Moses that he was doing too much. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not sit alone, and all the people position themselves next to you from morning till evening!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1399EXO1814cfd1figs-metonymyאַתָּ֤ה יוֹשֵׁב֙ לְ⁠בַדֶּ֔⁠ךָ1you sit alone

The word sit here is a metonym for “judge.” Judges would sit while they listened to peoples complaints. Alternate translation: “do you judge alone” or “are you the only one who judges the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1400EXO1814tiqsfigs-explicitנִצָּ֥ב עָלֶ֖י⁠ךָ1you sit alone

The people came to be near Moses so that they could get a chance for him to hear their petitions. You could state that explicitly if it would be more clear. Alternate translation: “petition you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1401EXO1818jtd2נָבֹ֣ל תִּבֹּ֔ל1You will surely wear yourselves out

“You will surely make yourself very tired”

1402EXO1818h91bfigs-metaphorכָבֵ֤ד מִמְּ⁠ךָ֙1This burden is too heavy for you

Jethro speaks of the hard work that Moses is doing as if it were a physical burden that Moses was carrying. Alternate translation: “is too hard for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1403EXO1819pug7אִיעָ֣צְ⁠ךָ֔1you advice

“I will guide you” or “I will instruct you”

1404EXO1819v8i9figs-metaphorוִ⁠יהִ֥י אֱלֹהִ֖ים עִמָּ֑⁠ךְ1God will be with you

Jethro speaks of God helping Moses as if God would be with Moses. Alternate translation: “God will help you” or “God will give you wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1405EXO1819w4r8figs-metaphorוְ⁠הֵבֵאתָ֥ אַתָּ֛ה אֶת־הַ⁠דְּבָרִ֖ים אֶל־הָ⁠אֱלֹהִֽים1you bring their disputes to him

Jethro speaks of Moses telling God about their disputes as if they were something that Moses was bringing to God. Alternate translation: “and you tell God about their disputes” or and “you tell God what they are arguing about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1406EXO1820w3vffigs-metaphorוְ⁠הוֹדַעְתָּ֣ לָ⁠הֶ֗ם אֶת־הַ⁠דֶּ֨רֶךְ֙ יֵ֣לְכוּ בָ֔⁠הּ1You must show them the way to walk

Jethro speaks of living or behaving like walking. Alternate translation: “You must show them how to live” or “You must show them how to behave” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1407EXO1821p5apוְ⁠אַתָּ֣ה תֶחֱזֶ֣ה1Furthermore, you must choose

“As for you, search out” or “You must also search out”

1408EXO1821n936figs-metaphorוְ⁠שַׂמְתָּ֣ עֲלֵ⁠הֶ֗ם1You must put them over people

Jethro speaks of giving them authority over people as putting them over people. Alternate translation: “You must give them authority over people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1409EXO18218vv7writing-pronounsוְ⁠שַׂמְתָּ֣ עֲלֵ⁠הֶ֗ם1You must put them over people

Here, them refers to the Israelites. Moses is placing the good men in charge of groups of Israelites. Alternate translation: “And you must appoint these men over the Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

1410EXO1821d2hvtranslate-numbersשָׂרֵ֤י אֲלָפִים֙ שָׂרֵ֣י מֵא֔וֹת שָׂרֵ֥י חֲמִשִּׁ֖ים וְ⁠שָׂרֵ֥י עֲשָׂרֹֽת1leaders in charge of thousands, hundreds, fifties, and of tens

Possible meanings are (1) these numbers represent the exact amount of people in each group. Alternate translation: “leaders in charge of groups of 1,000 people, groups of 100 people, groups of 50 people, and groups of 10 people” or (2) these numbers are not exact, but represent groups of people of various sizes. Alternate translation: “leaders in charge of very small groups, small groups, large groups, and very large groups” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1411EXO1822y5n2figs-metaphorכָּל־הַ⁠דָּבָ֤ר הַ⁠גָּדֹל֙ יָבִ֣יאוּ אֵלֶ֔י⁠ךָ1the difficult cases they will bring to you

Jethro speaks of telling Moses about the difficult cases as bringing him the difficult cases. Alternate translation: “the difficult cases they will tell you about” or “when there are difficult cases, they will tell you about them so you can judge them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1412EXO1822vnvhוְ⁠הָקֵל֙ מֵֽ⁠עָלֶ֔י⁠ךָ1the difficult cases they will bring to you

This is a command. Alternate translation: “Make your work less” or “Lessen your work”

1413EXO1822u42pfigs-metaphorוְ⁠הָקֵל֙ מֵֽ⁠עָלֶ֔י⁠ךָ וְ⁠נָשְׂא֖וּ אִתָּֽ⁠ךְ1they will carry the burden with you

Jethro speaks of the hard work that they would do as if it were something that they would carry and make lighter for Moses by helping him. Alternate translation: “Lessen your work by having them do the hard work with you” or “Make your work easier by having them help you do the hard work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1414EXO1823wyq4וְ⁠יָֽכָלְתָּ֖ עֲמֹ֑ד1endure

“then you will not wear yourself out”

1415EXO1823bt5p⁠גַם֙ כָּל־הָ⁠עָ֣ם הַ⁠זֶּ֔ה עַל־מְקֹמ֖⁠וֹ יָבֹ֥א בְ⁠שָׁלֽוֹם1endure

Here, getting to their place could mean each persons home tent or it could mean the whole group gets to the promised land. If you cannot leave it ambiguous it would be best to indicate something like “harmony in the camp.” Alternate translation: “all these people will live in harmony”

1416EXO1825n2wsfigs-metaphorרָאשִׁ֖ים עַל־הָ⁠עָ֑ם1heads over the people

Moses writes of the leaders of people as if they were the head of a body. Alternate translation: “leaders over the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1417EXO1825tb18figs-explicitאַנְשֵׁי־חַ֨יִל֙1capable men

What sort of ability they had can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “men who were able to lead” or “men who were able to judge” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1418EXO1825iqn8translate-numbersשָׂרֵ֤י אֲלָפִים֙ שָׂרֵ֣י מֵא֔וֹת שָׂרֵ֥י חֲמִשִּׁ֖ים וְ⁠שָׂרֵ֥י עֲשָׂרֹֽת1leaders in charge of thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens

Possible meanings are (1) these numbers represent the exact amount of people in each group. Alternate translation: “leaders in charge of groups of 1,000 people, groups of 100 people, groups of 50 people, and groups of 10 people” or (2) these numbers are not exact, but represent groups of people of various sizes. Alternate translation: “leaders in charge of very small groups, small groups, large groups, and very large groups” See how you translated this in Exodus 18:21. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1419EXO1826abx4וְ⁠שָׁפְט֥וּ אֶת־הָ⁠עָ֖ם בְּ⁠כָל־עֵ֑ת1judged the people in normal circumstances

“They judged the people most of the time” or “They judged the people in all regular circumstances”

1420EXO1826z7j4figs-metaphorאֶת־הַ⁠דָּבָ֤ר הַ⁠קָּשֶׁה֙ יְבִיא֣וּ⁠ן אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֔ה1The difficult cases they brought to Moses

The author writes of telling Moses about the difficult cases as bringing him the difficult cases. Alternate translation: “They told Moses about the difficult cases” or “When there were difficult cases, they told Moses about them so that he would judge them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1421EXO1826ve8hהַ⁠דָּבָ֥ר הַ⁠קָּטֹ֖ן1the small cases

“easy case”

1422EXO19introck7e0

Exodus 19 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

“A kingdom of priests”

The function of the priests was to intercede for the people. The Levites were the only priests in Israel; this is a metaphor indicating that the nation was to intercede for the world as a whole. They were also to be holy, or set apart, from the rest of the world. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/priest]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])

Revealing the Law

The events of this chapter are concerned with preparing the people to receive the law of Moses. The people go through all of this to prepare themselves for the law, which show the great importance of this event for Israel. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])

1423EXO191r5tjtranslate-hebrewmonths1In the third month…on the same day

This means they arrived at the wilderness on the first day of the month just as they left Egypt on the first day of the month. The first day of the third month on the Hebrew calendar is near the middle of May on Western calendars. Alternate translation: “In the third month…on the first day of the month” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1424EXO191xw7p1had gone out from

“had left”

1425EXO192nk51translate-names1Rephidim

This is an area on the edge of the wilderness of Sinai where the people of Israel had been camping. See how you translated this name in Exodus 17:1. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1426EXO193s2qtfigs-metonymy1the house of Jacob

The word “house” here represents Jacobs family and descendants. Alternate translation: “the descendants of Jacob” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1427EXO193f4qw1the house of Jacob, the people of Israel

The phrase “the people of Israel” explains what “the house of Jacob” means.

1428EXO194z9i6figs-you1You have seen

The word you here refers to the Israelites. Yahweh is telling Moses what to tell the Israelites. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

1429EXO194b7phfigs-metaphor1I carried you on eagles wings

God speaks of caring for his people while they traveled as if he were an eagle and carried them on his wings. Alternate translation: “I helped you travel like an eagle that carries her babies on her wings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1430EXO195th351obediently listen to my voice

Obediently can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “listen to my voice and obey me”

1431EXO195c767figs-metonymy1my voice

Gods voice represents what he says. Alternate translation: “what I say” or “my words” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1432EXO195fh8e1keep my covenant

“do what my covenant requires you to do”

1433EXO195ifv61special possession

“treasure”

1434EXO196gm9sfigs-metaphor1a kingdom of priests

God speaks of his people as if they were priests. Alternate translation: “a kingdom of people who are like priests” or “a kingdom of people who do what priests do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1435EXO197c5tqfigs-metaphor1set before them all these words

The author writes of Moses telling people things as if he were setting the words before them. AT “told them all these words” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1436EXO197zqk11all these words that Yahweh had commanded him

“all that Yahweh had commanded him”

1437EXO198ljf5figs-go1Moses came to report

Where Moses went can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “Moses went back up the mountain to report” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1438EXO198rwx6figs-metonymy1the peoples words

The word “words” refers to what the people said. Alternate translation: “what the people said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1439EXO1910ie7y1you must set them apart to me

This probably means “tell them to dedicate themselves to me” or “tell them to purify themselves for me.”

1440EXO1910j8911their garments

“their clothes” or “what they are wearing”

1441EXO1911d6tmfigs-you1Be ready

This was a command to the people of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

1442EXO1912lg7u1General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

1443EXO1912d48p1set boundaries

“make a boundary.” This was either a mark or some kind of barrier.

1444EXO1912kis1figs-activepassive1Whoever touches the mountain will surely be put to death

This can be stated with an active form. Alternate translation: “You must surely put to death any person who touches the mountain” or “You must surely kill anyone who touches the mountain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1445EXO1912ibe71Whoever touches

“Any person who touches” or “Anyone who touches”

1446EXO1913l9ak1such a person

“a person who does that” or “a person who touches the mountain”

1447EXO1913k35kfigs-activepassive1he must certainly be stoned or shot

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you must certainly stone or shoot him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1448EXO1913vw191shot

This refers to being killed by someone who shoots arrows from a bow or stones from a slingshot.

1449EXO1913ng411a long blast

“a long, loud sound”

1450EXO1915bw2pfigs-euphemism1do not go near your wives

This is a polite way of talking about sleeping with their wives. Alternate translation: “do not sleep with your wives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

1451EXO1916fvt81All the people…trembled

“All the people…shook with fear”

1452EXO1918m1b51Yahweh descended

“Yahweh came down”

1453EXO1918a8p71like the smoke of a furnace

This shows that it was a very large amount of smoke. Alternate translation: “like the smoke from a very large fire”

1454EXO1918np1stranslate-unknown1furnace

an oven that can be made extremely hot (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1455EXO1919m8ae1grew louder and louder

“continued to become louder and louder”

1456EXO1919f5e6figs-metonymy1in a voice

The word “voice” here refers to a sound that God made. Possible meanings are (1) “by speaking loudly like thunder” or (2) “by speaking” or (3) “by causing thunder to sound” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1457EXO1920v7mh1he summoned Moses

“he commanded Moses to come up”

1458EXO1921d2qmfigs-metaphor1not to break through

God spoke about walking past the boundary as if they might break down a barrier and walk through it. See how you translated “set bounds” in Exodus 19:12. Alternate translation: “not to go beyond the boundary” or “not to go through the barrier”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1459EXO1924w8lx1get down

“go down”

1460EXO1924bk6pfigs-metaphor1break through the barrier

God spoke about walking past the boundary as if they might break down a barrier and walk through it. See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 19:21. Alternate translation: “go beyond the boundary” or “go through the barrier” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1461EXO20introx7vt0

Exodus 20 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The instructions recorded in this chapter are commonly known as the “ten commandments.”

Special concepts in this chapter

Covenant

Yahwehs covenant faithfulness is now based on the covenant he made with Abraham as well as the covenant he is making with Moses. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenantfaith]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])

1462EXO202qg711house of slavery

“place where you were slaves”

1463EXO203r9h31You must have no other gods before me

“You must not worship any other gods but me”

1464EXO204rkn11nor the likeness

“and you must not make the likeness”

1465EXO205ka3i1You must not bow down to them or worship them

The word “them” refers to carved figures or idols.

1466EXO205r6zh1jealous

God wants his people to worship only him.

1467EXO205w4cs1punish the ancestors wickedness by bringing punishment on the descendants

God will punish people for the sin of their parents.

1468EXO205s2iatranslate-ordinal1to the third and the fourth generation

“to generations 3 and 4.” This refers to the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Alternate translation: “even on the grandchildren and great-grandchildren (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1469EXO206u9ncfigs-abstractnouns1I show covenant faithfulness to thousands of those who love me

The abstract noun “faithfulness” can be stated as “faithfully” or “faithful.” Alternate translation: “I faithfully love thousands of those who love me” or “I am faithful to the covenant with thousands of those who love me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1470EXO206yw38figs-explicit1to thousands of those who love me

The word “thousands” is a metonym for a number too many to count. Alternate translation: “forever to those who love me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1471EXO207t3k21take the name of Yahweh your God

“use the name of Yahweh your God”

1472EXO207gcz21in vain

“carelessly” or “without proper respect”

1473EXO207sl6gfigs-doublenegatives1I will not hold guiltless

This double-negative can be stated as a positive. Alternate translation: “I will certainly consider guilty” or “I will certainly punish” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1474EXO208kwn71set it apart

“set it apart for a special purpose”

1475EXO209sad11do all your work

“do all your usual duties”

1476EXO2010t1kyfigs-metonymy1within your gates

Cities often had walls around them to keep out enemies, and gates for people to go in and out. Alternate translation: “within your community” or “inside your city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1477EXO2011vw1ftranslate-ordinal1on the seventh day

“on day seven.” Here “seventh” is the ordinal number for “7.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1478EXO2011s8ds1blessed the Sabbath day

Possible meanings are that (1) God caused the Sabbath day to produce good results, or (2) God said that the Sabbath day was good.

1479EXO2014wyv91You must not commit adultery

“You must not have sex with anyone other than your spouse”

1480EXO2016zix81must not give false testimony

“must not speak a false report” or “must not tell lies about someone”

1481EXO2017vt9t1must not covet

“must not strongly want to have” or “must not want to take”

1482EXO2018swq31voice of the trumpet

“sound of the trumpet”

1483EXO2018nm521the mountain smoking

“smoke coming from the mountain”

1484EXO2018lmt51they trembled

“they shook with fear”

1485EXO2018h53m1stood far off

“stood far away” or “stood at a distance”

1486EXO2020slb81so that the honor of him may be in you, and so that you do not sin

“so that you will honor him and not sin”

1487EXO2021lts11Moses approached

“Moses went closer to”

1488EXO2022tq2f1This is what you must tell the Israelites

“Tell the Israelites this”

1489EXO2022r6jh1You yourselves have seen that I have talked with you from heaven

“You have heard me speak to you from heaven”

1490EXO2023hi911You will not make for yourselves other gods alongside me

“You must not make idols as other gods instead of me”

1491EXO2023qm441gods of silver or gods of gold

“gods made out of silver or gold” or “idols made out of silver or gold”

1492EXO2024pf1i1earthen altar

an altar made of materials from the ground, such as stone, soil, or clay

1493EXO2024ge89figs-metonymy1cause my name to be honored

Here “name” is a metonym for Gods being. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “choose for you to honor me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1494EXO2026qm1b1You must not go up to my altar on steps

“Do not build steps up to the altar and go up to it on those steps”

1495EXO2026h2qd1your nakedness

“your private parts”

1496EXO21introdnd30

Exodus 21 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Covenant with Moses

Although the covenant Yahweh made with Moses began in the previous chapter, it formally begins with the statement, “Now these are the decrees that you must set before them.” The law of Moses was a major part of this covenant. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])

Slavery

This passage does not condone slavery as an acceptable practice. However, it does impose some restrictions on the practice.

Justice in society

The rules and law of this chapter are not intended to be followed by every society. Israel was Gods chosen nation and was required to live in a special way. These laws concerned creating a just society and a holy nation. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/elect]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])

1497EXO211b3g41General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

1498EXO211hhf71you must set before them

“you must give them” or “you must tell them”

1499EXO212di5z1General Information:

Yahweh tells Moses his laws for the people of Israel.

1500EXO213ln3rfigs-explicit1If he came by himself, he must go free by himself

What “by himself” means can be stated clearly. Some languages require that the additional condition, that he marries while a slave, be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “If he became a slave while he had no wife, and if he marries while he is a slave, the master need only free the man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1501EXO213pfn31by himself

“alone” or “without a wife”

1502EXO213e4671if he is married

“if he was married when he became a slave” or “if he came as a married man”

1503EXO215yj8x1plainly says

“clearly says”

1504EXO215jqh41I will not go out free

“I do not want my master to set me free”

1505EXO216z8x11bore his ear through

“put a hole in his ear”

1506EXO216xpd31awl

a pointed tool used to make a hole

1507EXO216k6ev1for life

“until the end of his life” or “until he dies”

1508EXO218p8se1has designated

“has chosen”

1509EXO218t2zffigs-activepassive1he must let her be bought back

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he must allow her father to buy her back” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1510EXO218bi4y1has no right to sell

“has no authority to sell”

1511EXO218h7f71he has treated her deceitfully

“he has deceived her”

1512EXO219w99z1designates her as a wife for his son

“decides that she is the one who will be his sons wife”

1513EXO2110rxk4figs-doublenegatives1he must not diminish her food, clothing, or her marital rights

This can be stated in a positive form. Alternate translation: “he must give the first wife the same food, clothing, and marital rights she had before” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1514EXO2110q2gt1must not diminish her food

“must not take away her food” or “must not give her less food”

1515EXO2110np9bfigs-euphemism1or her marital rights

This includes things that a husband must do for his wife, including sleeping with her. Alternate translation: “and he must continue to sleep with her as before” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

1516EXO2112gks41strikes a man

“hits a man” or “attacks a man”

1517EXO2112su6bfigs-activepassive1that person must surely be put to death

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you must certainly execute that person” or “you must certainly kill that person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1518EXO2113h4ka1did not do it with premeditation

“did not plan to do it” or “did not do it on purpose”

1519EXO2113gme9figs-explicit1I will fix a place to where he can flee

The purpose of choosing a place can be stately clearly here. Alternate translation: “I will choose a place that he can run away to be safe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1520EXO2114st5h1according to a cunning plan

“after thinking carefully about it”

1521EXO2114abx61must take him

The word “him” refers to the one who killed his neighbor.

1522EXO2114bcc6figs-activepassive1so that he may die

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “so that you can kill him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1523EXO2115y3hdfigs-activepassive1Whoever hits his father or mother must surely be put to death

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “If anyone hits his father or mother, you must surely put him to death” or “You must surely kill anyone who hits his father or mother” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1524EXO2115qh2j1must surely

“must certainly”

1525EXO2116iu81figs-activepassive1that kidnapper must be put to death

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you must kill that kidnapper” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1526EXO2117h8qffigs-activepassive1Whoever curses his father or his mother must surely be put to death

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you must surely kill anyone who curses his father or his mother” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1527EXO2118hk3cfigs-activepassive1is confined to his bed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “cannot get out of bed” or “has to stay in bed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1528EXO2119c7rv1he recovers

“he gets better”

1529EXO2119fa8t1staff

This is a stick that can be leaned on for support while walking.

1530EXO2119xg6cfigs-explicit1the loss of his time

This refers to a situation when someone cannot work to earn money. You can express this clearly in the translation. Alternate translation: “the time he could not work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1531EXO2119ws141pay for his complete recovery

“pay his medical costs” or “pay for his costs for healing”

1532EXO2120te411as a result of the blow

“because of the injury” or “because his master hit him”

1533EXO2120h4egfigs-activepassive1that man must surely be punished

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you must certainly punish that man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1534EXO2121r65ufigs-explicit1for he will have suffered the loss of the servant

You can express clearly in the translation that the servant was valuable to his master. Alternate translation: “because he has already lost his servant who was valuable to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1535EXO2122a6av1she miscarries

“her baby dies in her womb” or “her baby is born too soon and dies”

1536EXO2122cn4hfigs-activepassive1the guilty man must surely be fined

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you must certainly fine the guilty man” or “the guilty man must pay a fine” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1537EXO2122v5ye1as the judges determine

“what the judges decide”

1538EXO2123x2ekfigs-explicit1you must give a life for a life

This means that if she is hurt, the person who hurt her must be hurt in the same way. Alternate translation: “he must give his life for her life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1539EXO2124c5bqfigs-explicit1an eye for an eye

This means that if she is hurt, the person who hurt her must be hurt in the same way. Alternate translation: “his eye for her eye” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1540EXO2126i8cg1If a man

Here “man” refers to the owner of a slave.

1541EXO2126bmc11in compensation

“as payment.” Compensation is what someone does for another person or gives to another person to make up for what he has caused that person to lose.

1542EXO2128sp6w1an ox gores

“an ox injures with its horns”

1543EXO2128qk3ufigs-activepassive1the ox must surely be stoned

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you must stone the ox to death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1544EXO2128q2gvfigs-activepassive1its flesh must not be eaten

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you must not eat its flesh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1545EXO2128d4lifigs-activepassive1the oxs owner must be acquitted

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you must acquit the oxs owner” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1546EXO2129nzn1figs-activepassive1its owner also must be put to death

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you must also kill its owner” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1547EXO2130t5rsfigs-explicit1If a payment is required for his life

If the oxs owner can pay a fine to save his own life, then he must pay whatever the judges decide. The full meaning of this can be stated clearly. This can also be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “if the owner of the bull can pay a fine to save his own life, he must pay the full amount that the judges say that he must pay” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1548EXO2131kg251has gored

“has injured with its horns”

1549EXO2132qzv3translate-bmoney1thirty shekels of silver

“330 grams of silver.” A shekel weighed eleven grams. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]])

1550EXO2132wm9afigs-activepassive1the ox must be stoned

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you must kill the ox by stoning it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1551EXO2133fd4p1opens a pit

“uncovers a hole in the ground” or “takes a cover off a hole in the ground”

1552EXO2134b48afigs-explicit1repay the loss

The owner must be paid for the loss of his animal. Alternate translation: “pay the owner for the dead animal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1553EXO2134j8qzfigs-explicit1will become his

The one who paid for the loss of the animal will become the owner of the dead animal and can do what he wants with it. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “will belong to the owner of the pit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1554EXO2135z9ug1divide its price

“divide the money” or “divide the money they receive”

1555EXO2136fkx2figs-activepassive1if it was known

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “if people knew” or “if the owner knew” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1556EXO2136v64b1a habit of goring in time past

“had gored other animals before”

1557EXO2136ix8hfigs-explicit1its owner has not kept it in

This means that the owner did not keep his ox securely inside a fence. This can be clearly stated in the translation. Alternate translation: “its owner did not keep it inside a fence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1558EXO2136dcv2figs-explicit1he must surely pay ox for ox

The owner of the ox that killed must give an ox to the man who lost his ox. This can be stated clearly in the translation. Alternate translation: “the owner of the ox that killed must surely give a living ox to the owner of the ox that died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1559EXO22introf9vb0

Exodus 22 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Justice in society

The rules and laws of this chapter are not intended to be followed by every society. Israel was Gods chosen nation and was required to live in a special way. These laws concerned creating a just society and a holy nation. In this chapter, the purpose of these laws often focuses on minimizing the peoples desire for vengeance. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/elect]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/avenge]])

1560EXO221syx51General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses his laws for the people of Israel.

1561EXO222mt43figs-activepassive1If a thief is found

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “If anyone finds a thief” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1562EXO222e98x1breaking in

“using force to come into a house”

1563EXO222gt5ffigs-activepassive1if he is struck so that he dies

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “if anyone strikes the thief so that he dies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1564EXO222fq571no guilt for murder will attach to anyone on his account

“no one will be guilty of murdering him”

1565EXO223vym51if the sun has risen before he breaks in

“if it is light before he breaks in” or “if he breaks in and it is after sunrise”

1566EXO223nl2i1guilt for murder will attach to the person who kills him

“the person who kills him will be guilty of murder”

1567EXO223f4w41make restitution

“pay for what he stole”

1568EXO223c5ylfigs-activepassive1he must be sold for his theft

This can be stated in an active form. Alternate translation: “you must sell him as a slave in order to pay for what he stole” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1569EXO224k926figs-activepassive1If the stolen animal is found alive in his possession

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “If they find that he still has the live animal that he stole” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1570EXO224g5kg1pay back double

pay two animals for every animal that he took

1571EXO225j24t1If a man grazes his livestock

“If a man lets his animals eat plants”

1572EXO225ty821it grazes

“it eats plants”

1573EXO225jrb31he must make restitution

“he must pay back the owner of that field”

1574EXO226x6aj1If a fire breaks out and spreads in thorns

“If someone starts a fire and it spreads in thorns”

1575EXO226i4ma1spreads in thorns

“moves along the ground through dry plants”

1576EXO226u1pa1stacked grain

This is grain that has been cut and tied in bundles. “bundled grain” or “harvested grain”

1577EXO226r2cf1standing grain

This is grain that has not been cut, but it is ready to be harvested.

1578EXO226w6ku1a field is consumed

“fire consumes a field” or “fire destroys a field”

1579EXO226j3981must surely make restitution

“must certainly pay for the grain that the fire destroyed”

1580EXO227jw3v1for safe keeping

“to watch over it” or “to keep it safe”

1581EXO227na9hfigs-activepassive1if it is stolen

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “if someone steals it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1582EXO227z7zu1thief

someone who steals something

1583EXO227x2shfigs-activepassive1if the thief is found

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “if you find the thief” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1584EXO228lwg51come before the judges to see whether

“come before the judges so that they can find out if”

1585EXO228f774figs-idiom1has put his own hand on his neighbors property

This is an idiom. If you have a way of saying this in your language, you can use it here. Alternate translation: “has stolen his neighbors property” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1586EXO229p7ab1the claim of both parties must come before the judges

The judges must listen to both people who claim that item belongs to them and the judges will decide who is guilty.

1587EXO2211gl7tfigs-activepassive1an oath to Yahweh must be taken by them both

Only the man who is accused of stealing the animal must swear the oath. The owner of the lost animal must accept the oath that has been sworn. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the man who was caring for the animal must swear an oath before Yahweh and the owner must accept that oath” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1588EXO2212yw3wfigs-activepassive1But if it was stolen from him

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “But if someone stole the animal from him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1589EXO2213b313figs-activepassive1If an animal was torn in pieces

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “But if a wild beast tore the animal in pieces” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1590EXO2213pc6ifigs-activepassive1He will not have to pay for what was torn

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “He will not have to pay for the animal that the wild beast destroyed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1591EXO2214h8yw1must surely make restitution

“must certainly repay with another animal” or “must certainly pay the owner for the animal”

1592EXO2215g3zwfigs-activepassive1if the animal was hired

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “if someone rented the animal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1593EXO2215r792figs-explicit1it will be paid for by its hiring fee

The one who borrowed the animal will not have to pay the owner anything more than the hiring or rental fee. This fee will pay for the loss of the animal. This can be stated clearly in the translation. Alternate translation: “the money that someone paid to rent the animal will cover the loss of the animal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1594EXO2215f9w91hiring fee

“rental fee” or “money paid to rent the animal”

1595EXO2216a8s81a man seduces a virgin who is not engaged

“a man persuades a virgin who is not engaged that she wants to sleep with him”

1596EXO2216th2m1not engaged

“not promised to be married”

1597EXO2216g24hfigs-euphemism1if he lies with her

Lying with someone is a euphemism for having sex. Alternate translation: “if he has sex with her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

1598EXO2216x33y1bride wealth

“dowry” or “bride price”

1599EXO2217y2xz1him, he

These pronouns refer back to the man who seduced the virgin.

1600EXO2219y3qyfigs-euphemism1Whoever lies with an animal

This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: “Whoever has sexual relations with an animal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

1601EXO2220n4nhfigs-activepassive1Yahweh must be completely destroyed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Yahweh, you must completely destroy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1602EXO2221kr351wrong a foreigner

“mistreat a foreigner” or “cheat a foreigner”

1603EXO2222djh3figs-doublenegatives1You must not mistreat any widow or fatherless child

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “You must treat all widows and fatherless children fairly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1604EXO2222v3i81widow

“woman whose husband has died”

1605EXO2222l2ih1fatherless child

“orphan” or “child with no parents”

1606EXO2224sx9hfigs-metonymy1I will kill you with the sword

To be killed “with the sword” is a metonym that means a person will die violently, or perhaps fighting in a war. Alternate translation: “you will die a violent death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1607EXO2225v5je1a moneylender

“one who lends money”

1608EXO2225g3ry1charge him interest

“charge him extra money for borrowing” or “charge him extra money for the loan”

1609EXO2226vsk21garment in pledge

“coat as collateral” or “coat as a guarantee to repay the loan”

1610EXO2227wi2m1only covering

“only coat” or “only garment to keep him warm”

1611EXO2227x7zbfigs-rquestion1What else can he sleep in?

This question adds emphasis. You can translate it as a strong statement. Alternate translation: “He will have nothing to wear while he sleeps!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1612EXO2228eel21You must not blaspheme me, God

“Do not insult God” or “Do not speak evil about God”

1613EXO2228tdj61nor curse a ruler

“and do not ask God to do bad things to a ruler”

1614EXO2229p8nkfigs-doublenegatives1You must not hold back offerings

This can be stated in a positive form. Alternate translation: “You must bring all of your offerings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1615EXO2229m4yq1give to me the firstborn of your sons

“dedicate your firstborn sons to me”

1616EXO2230cya61do the same with

“dedicate to me the firstborn of”

1617EXO2230j345translate-numbers1For seven days

This can be written as a numeral. Alternate translation: “For 7 days after they are born” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1618EXO2230m4wqtranslate-numbers1the eighth day

This can be written as a numeral. Alternate translation: “day number 8” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1619EXO2230l9vh1give them to me

“dedicate them to me”

1620EXO23introhk5t0

Exodus 23 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Justice in society

The rules and laws of this chapter are not intended to be followed by every society. Israel was Gods chosen nation and was required to live in a special way. These laws concerned creating a just society and a holy nation. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/elect]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])

Celebrations of feasts and festivals

The people of Israel were required to celebrate certain feasts and festivals. These were part of the law of Moses and some are described in this chapter. Their purpose was to worship Yahweh and to remember the great things Yahweh has done for them.

1621EXO231we1y1General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses his laws for the people of Israel.

1622EXO231y1a31dishonest witness

This is the same as a lying or false witness.

1623EXO232nqz91nor may you bear witness

“and you also must not speak”

1624EXO232z6ejfigs-metaphor1siding with the crowd

This is a metaphor that describes ones agreeing with a group of people as if he actually walked over and stood with that group. Alternate translation: “doing what the crowd wants” or “agreeing with the majority” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1625EXO232tnv21pervert justice

do illegal or immoral actions that result in a unjust ruling

1626EXO234faf41General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses his laws for the people of Israel.

1627EXO236gr9g1General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses his laws for the people of Israel.

1628EXO236z2al1Do not thrust aside justice for your poor in his lawsuit

“Do not decide to treat a poor man unjustly in legal matters”

1629EXO236vh761lawsuit

Here, this refers to any matter that a court decides.

1630EXO237mf4w1I will not acquit the wicked

“I will not find the wicked not guilty” or “I will not say of wicked people that they are innocent”

1631EXO238gh3vfigs-personification1bribe blinds…perverts

Here a “bribe” is described as if it were a person. Alternate translation: “bribe discredits…undermines” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

1632EXO239mzu91the life of a foreigner

“the kind of life a stranger lives in a foreign land”

1633EXO2310usn51General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses his laws for the people of Israel.

1634EXO2310rt7h1its produce

“the food its plants produce”

1635EXO2311vr1l1unplowed

uncultivated, untilled

1636EXO2311b5q61fallow

in its natural state, not used for to grow food

1637EXO2311s4wvfigs-explicit1so that the poor among your people may eat

The poor can eat any food that grows on its own in a field that is not cultivated. This can be stated clearly in the translation. Alternate translation: “so the poor among your people may harvest and eat any food that grows on its own in that field” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1638EXO2312v36j1General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses his laws for the people of Israel.

1639EXO2312ij921your ox and your donkey

“your work animals”

1640EXO2312gpu1figs-activepassive1any foreigner may rest and be refreshed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “any foreigner may rest and regain his strength” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1641EXO2313ldn81Pay attention to

“Do” or “Obey”

1642EXO2313x5tffigs-metonymy1mention the names of other gods

This represents praying to other gods. Alternate translation: “pray to other gods” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1643EXO2314kp1j1General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses his laws for the people of Israel.

1644EXO2315bu7ntranslate-hebrewmonths1Aviv

This is the name of the first month of the Hebrew calendar. Aviv is during the last part of March and the first part of April on Western calendars. See how you translated this in Exodus 13:4. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1645EXO2315tx1vfigs-doublenegatives1not appear before me empty-handed

Here understatement is used to emphasize that the Israelites must bring a suitable offering to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “come to me without a proper offering” or “always bring an offering to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1646EXO2316tnz11General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses his laws for the people of Israel.

1647EXO2316z4k41You must observe

“You must honor” or “You must celebrate”

1648EXO2316pnx41Festival of Ingathering

This festival celebrated the final harvesting of all the crops for the year.

1649EXO2317t5xjfigs-explicit1All your males must appear before the Lord Yahweh

Here to “appear” means to gather for worship. Alternate translation: “All the men must gather to worship the Lord Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1650EXO2318rqs41General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses his laws for the people of Israel.

1651EXO2318qgx11fat from the sacrifices

The fat was burned as an offering to Yahweh and was never eaten.

1652EXO2319h3gs1the choicest firstfruits

“the best and first produce of the harvest”

1653EXO2319u7bk1You must not boil a young goat in its mothers milk

This was a magical fertility practice among the Canaanites, which the Israelites were not permitted to participate in.

1654EXO2320e5sr1General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses his laws for the people of Israel.

1655EXO2321pm7x1Be attentive to him

“Listen to him”

1656EXO2321p5y31Do not provoke him, for he will not pardon

“If you provoke him, he will not pardon”

1657EXO2321p4jvfigs-metonymy1My name is on him

Here “name” refers to Gods authority. Alternate translation: “He has my authority” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1658EXO2322z1gnfigs-metonymy1If you indeed obey his voice

Here “voice” represents what the angel says. Alternate translation: “If you carefully obey what he says” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1659EXO2322y9bmfigs-parallelism1an enemy to your enemies and an adversary to your adversaries

These two phrases mean the same thing and are used for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

1660EXO2323ap6k1General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses his laws for the people of Israel.

1661EXO2324a1d5figs-explicit1You must not…do as they do

The Israelites must not live as the people who worship other gods. Alternate translation: “You must not…live as the people who worship those gods” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1662EXO2325t3irfigs-merism1he will bless your bread and water

This is a merism that means food and drink. Alternate translation: “he will bless your food and drink” or “he will bless you by giving you food and drink” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

1663EXO2325ydl4figs-123person1he will bless…I will remove

Yahweh switched between the first and third pronoun to refer to himself. Here both “he” and “I” refer to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

1664EXO2326i9uj1General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses his laws for the people of Israel.

1665EXO2326q4gzfigs-doublenegatives1No woman will be barren or will miscarry her young in your land

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “Every woman will be able to become pregnant and give birth to healthy babies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1666EXO2326i1r91miscarry

to have a pregnancy end early and unexpectedly

1667EXO2328cg7i1hornets

a flying insect that can sting people and cause pain

1668EXO2329i9aq1or the land would become abandoned

“because no one would be living in the land”

1669EXO2330zyl31General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses his laws for the people of Israel.

1670EXO2333d1fpfigs-metaphor1this will surely become a trap for you

This means worshiping other gods will lead the people of Israel to certain destruction as if they were an animal caught in a hunters trap. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1671EXO24introb83l0

Exodus 24 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Moses covenant

The people of Israel promise to obey the covenant Yahweh made with Moses. Their continued blessings were contingent upon their obedience to this covenant. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/promise]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])

Gods holiness

Because Yahweh is perfectly holy, he can only be approached in a certain way. Because of this, only Moses was allowed near Yahweh. This is also why Yahweh is described as a “devouring fire.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])

1672EXO241c97itranslate-names1Nadab…Abihu

These are mens names. See how you translated these names in Exodus 6:23. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1673EXO241nm3ttranslate-numbers1seventy of Israels elders

“70 of Israels elders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1674EXO243cg32figs-idiom1with one voice

This is an idiom that means the people were in complete agreement. Alternate translation: “together” or “in agreement” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1675EXO244h7gg1foot of the mountain

“base of the mountain” or “bottom of the mountain”

1676EXO246l5ia1Moses took half of the blood and put it into basins

Moses collected half of the blood in basins in order to splash it on the people in Exodus 24:8. This would confirm the peoples participation in the covenant between the people of Israel and God.

1677EXO246f7dh1he sprinkled the other half onto the altar

Here the altar represents God. This would confirm Gods participation in the covenant between God and the people of Israel.

1678EXO247axt9figs-activepassive1We will be obedient

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “We will obey everything” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1679EXO248h9fffigs-explicit1Then Moses took the blood

This refers to the blood that Moses had put into the bowls. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “Then Moses took the blood that was in the bowls” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1680EXO249uz7ytranslate-names1Nadab…Abihu

These are mens names. See how you translated these names in Exodus 6:23. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1681EXO2410ic4sfigs-personification1Under his feet

This speaks of God as if he had human feet. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

1682EXO2410je5k1a pavement made of sapphire stone

“a pavement made of blue stones called sapphires”

1683EXO2410q8sn1pavement

a hard surface for walking or riding

1684EXO2410pm87translate-unknown1sapphire stone

This is a gemstone that is blue in color. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1685EXO2410zd6ufigs-simile1as clear as the sky itself

This is a simile. Alternate translation: “as clear as the sky is when there are no clouds” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1686EXO2411jds6figs-metonymy1God did not lay a hand on the Israelite leaders

This means that God did not harm the leaders. Alternate translation: “God did not harm the Israelite leaders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1687EXO2412dx4ffigs-explicit1tablets of stone and the law and commandments

God had written the law and commandments on the tablets of stone. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “two stone slabs on which I have written all the laws” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1688EXO2413gv5e1with his assistant Joshua

“with Joshua who assisted him” or “with Joshua who helped him”

1689EXO2414qiy41wait for us

“wait for Joshua and me”

1690EXO2414uc7rtranslate-names1Hur

Hur was a man who was a friend of Moses and Aaron. See how you translated this name in Exodus 17:10. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1691EXO2416j2s5figs-metonymy1Yahwehs glory

This was the brilliant light of Gods presence. Alternate translation: “The brilliant light showing Gods presence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1692EXO2417e4n6figs-simile1like a devouring fire

This means the glory of Yahweh was very large and seemed to burn brightly like a fire. Alternate translation: “like a big fire burning” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1693EXO2417k5ljfigs-metaphor1in the eyes of the Israelites

Their eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents their thoughts or judgment about they saw. Alternate translation: “to the Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1694EXO2418h1wytranslate-numbers1forty days and forty nights

“40 days and 40 nights” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1695EXO25introt23a0

Exodus 25 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

The tent of meeting

This chapter gives specific instructions regarding the building of a tent where Moses would meet Yahweh and the ark would be stored. This would eventually become the tabernacle. It was to be considered a very holy place. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/tabernacle]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])

1696EXO252r5yrfigs-idiom1who is motivated by a willing heart

This is an idiom that indicates a persons desire to give an offering. Alternate translation: “who wants to give an offering” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1697EXO252k78qfigs-you1You must receive

The word you refers to Moses and the leaders. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

1698EXO253s2ls1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1699EXO254c1qn1blue, purple, and scarlet material

Possible meanings are (1) “material that is dyed blue, purple, and scarlet,” probably wool yarn, or (2) “blue, purple and scarlet dye” to dye the linen.

1700EXO254c9581scarlet

bright red

1701EXO256i6gptranslate-unknown1spices

dried plants that people grind into a powder and put in oil or food to give it a nice smell or flavor (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1702EXO257mg4ftranslate-unknown1onyx

a valuable stone that has layers of white and black, red or brown. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1703EXO257aks5figs-activepassive1precious stones to be set

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “precious stones for someone to set” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1704EXO257c3hk1precious stones

“valuable gems” or “treasured gems”

1705EXO258d3vm1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1706EXO259w4sc1tabernacle

Here this word means the same thing as the word “sanctuary” in verse 8.

1707EXO259c9qefigs-you1You must make it

Here you is plural and refers to Moses and the people of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

1708EXO259m1npfigs-you1show you in the plans

“show you in the design” or “show you in the pattern.” Here you is singular and refers to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

1709EXO2510n7j11General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1710EXO2510cs23translate-bdistance1two and a half cubits…one cubit and a half

A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “2.5 cubits…1.5 cubits” or “115 centimeters…almost 69 centimeters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

1711EXO2512e59p1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1712EXO2512wbq81cast four rings of gold

Casting was a process in which gold was melted, poured into a mold that was in the shape of a ring, and then allowed to harden.

1713EXO2514f2kz1in order to carry the ark

“so that you can carry the ark”

1714EXO2515k67p1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1715EXO2517c6751atonement lid

This is the lid that sits on top of the ark where the atonement offering was made.

1716EXO2517ast8translate-bdistance1two and a half cubits…a cubit and a half

A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “2.5 cubits…1.5 cubits” or “115 centimeters…69 centimeters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

1717EXO2518hfw61hammered gold

“beaten gold”

1718EXO2519rgn81General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1719EXO2519j38e1atonement lid

This is the lid that sits on top of the ark where the atonement offering was made. See how you translated this in Exodus 25:17.

1720EXO2519b4l9figs-activepassive1They must be made

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “You must make them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1721EXO2521lm1pfigs-you1You must put

Here you refers to Moses and the people of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

1722EXO2522hl6e1General Information:

Yahweh continues to speak to Moses.

1723EXO2522zu9ufigs-you1It is at the ark that I will meet with you

“I will meet with you at the ark.” In 25:22 the word you is singular and refers to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

1724EXO2522wq9w1atonement lid

This is the lid that sits on top of the ark where the atonement offering was made. See how you translated this in Exodus 25:17.

1725EXO2523b11v1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1726EXO2523t312translate-bdistance1two cubits…one cubit…a cubit and a half

A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “2 cubits…1 cubit…1.5 cubits” or “92 centimeters…46 centimeters…69 centimeters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

1727EXO2525b6j81General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1728EXO2525awi71one handbreadth wide

a measurement of 7 to 8 centimeters

1729EXO2525bit81frame for it

“frame for the table”

1730EXO2526y64j1feet were

“legs are”

1731EXO2527jdh4figs-activepassive1The rings must be attached

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “You must attach the rings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1732EXO2527q5w81in order to carry

“so you can carry”

1733EXO2528d7jz1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1734EXO2528l4fkfigs-activepassive1so that the table may be carried with them

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “so that you may carry the table with them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1735EXO2529v78dfigs-activepassive1to be used to pour out drink offerings

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “so that you may use them to pour out drink offerings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1736EXO2530uth71bread of the presence

This bread represented the presence of God.

1737EXO2531kc3q1hammered gold

“beaten gold.” See how you translated this in Exodus 25:18.

1738EXO2531g25lfigs-activepassive1The lampstand is to be made

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Make the lampstand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1739EXO2531fq45figs-activepassive1Its cups, its leafy bases, and its flowers are to be all made of one piece with it

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Make its cups, its leafy bases, and its flowers all of one piece with the lampstand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1740EXO2533nag21General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what the people must do. Yahweh is describing the lampstand (Exodus 25:31-32).

1741EXO2533i7bh1almond blossoms

white or pink flowers that have five petals

1742EXO2534ji3x1General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what the people must do. Yahweh is describing the lampstand (Exodus 25:31-32).

1743EXO2535lg8l1General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what the people must do. Yahweh is describing the lampstand (Exodus 25:31-32).

1744EXO2535n5edfigs-activepassive1made as one piece with it

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you must make them as one piece with the lampstand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1745EXO2536z9wy1General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what the people must do. Yahweh is describing the lampstand (Exodus 25:31-32).

1746EXO2537m2i71General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what the people must do.

1747EXO2537dfn61for them to give light from it

“so they shine light from it”

1748EXO2538l5w8figs-activepassive1The tongs and their trays must be made of pure gold

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Make the tongs and their trays of pure gold” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1749EXO2539ff5ptranslate-bweight1one talent

A talent weighs about thirty-three kilograms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

1750EXO2539ff8n1its accessories

the tongs and the trays

1751EXO2540l7jefigs-activepassive1you are being shown on the mountain

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I am showing you on the mountain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1752EXO26introemw70

Exodus 26 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is a continuation of the material in the previous chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

The tent of meeting

This chapter gives specific instructions regarding the building of a tent where Moses would meet Yahweh and the ark would be stored. This would eventually become the tabernacle. It was to be considered a very holy place. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/tabernacle]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])

1753EXO261hen61General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what the people must do (Exodus 25:1).

1754EXO261ks8rfigs-you1You must make

Yahweh is speaking to Moses, so the word you is singular. Yahweh probably expected Moses to tell someone else to do the actual work, but Moses would be the one responsible for seeing that the work was done correctly. “Tell a craftsman to make” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

1755EXO261iww41curtains

These were large, heavy sections of woven cloth that were used to form the covering and dividing walls of the tabernacle.

1756EXO261xvs71scarlet wool

wool dyed a deep red color

1757EXO261n2vm1craftsman

a person who is skilled in making beautiful objects by hand

1758EXO262dkr6translate-bdistance1twenty-eight cubits…four cubits

“28 cubits…4 cubits.” A cubit is 46 centimeters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1759EXO263ba6wfigs-activepassive1Five curtains must be joined to each other…must also be joined to each other

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Sew five curtains together to make one set, and sew the other five curtains together to make another set” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1760EXO264ghz81one set

“one set of five curtains”

1761EXO264zxx41the second set

“the second set of five curtains”

1762EXO266sns41clasps

The clasps fit into the loops (verses 4 and 5) to hold the curtains together.

1763EXO267k2mi1General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what the people must do.

1764EXO267t7t3translate-numbers1eleven

“11” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1765EXO268p423translate-numbers1thirty…four

“30…4” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1766EXO268v7i1translate-bdistance1cubits

A cubit is 46 centimeters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1767EXO2610j8yn1General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what the people must do.

1768EXO2610etf71loops

See how you translated these in Exodus 26:4.

1769EXO2611cq361clasps

The clasps fit into the loops to hold the curtains together. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:6.

1770EXO2612x5p71General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what the people must do.

1771EXO2613k4citranslate-bdistance1cubit

A cubit is 46 centimeters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1772EXO2614kii81a covering of ram skins dyed red, and another covering of fine leather

See how you translated similar phrases in Exodus 25:5.

1773EXO2614yz3v1dyed red

“colored red”

1774EXO2615p38r1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1775EXO2615y85l1frames

This refers to frames or panels that they made by joining together smaller pieces of wood.

1776EXO2616k4b7translate-numbers1ten cubits…one and a half cubits

“10 cubits…1.5 cubits” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1777EXO2619s45x1General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what the people must do.

1778EXO2619c9id1silver bases

These were silver blocks that had a slot in them to keep the board in place.

1779EXO2619mm1h1pedestals

The silver bases kept the wooden board off the ground.

1780EXO2619lg39figs-activepassive1There must be two bases

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Put two bases” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1781EXO2621gag1figs-explicit1and so on

This means that what was said about the first two boards should be done for the rest of the boards. This can be stated clearly in the translation. Alternate translation: “and two bases for each of the rest of the boards” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1782EXO2622nw4c1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1783EXO2624k1ecfigs-activepassive1These frames must be separate at the bottom, but joined at the top

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Separate these frames at the bottom, but join them at the top” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1784EXO2625p2wu1silver bases

These were silver blocks that had a slot in them to keep the frame in place. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:19.

1785EXO2625q8xh1in all

“total”

1786EXO2625yr6dfigs-explicit1and so on

This means that what was said about the first two frames should be done for the rest of the frames. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:21. Alternate translation: “and two bases for each of the rest of the frames” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1787EXO2626c95e1General Information:

Yahweh continue to tell Moses how the tabernacle was to be built.

1788EXO2626fc8p1crossbars

These are horizontal support beams that give stability to the structure.

1789EXO2627rn671the back side of the tabernacle to the west

The front was on the east side of the tabernacle.

1790EXO2629x8ny1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses how the tabernacle must be constructed.

1791EXO2629ji1j1for them to serve as holders for the crossbars

“which will hold the crossbars” or “because they will hold the crossbars”

1792EXO2629nq3m1crossbars

These are horizontal support beams that give stability to the structure. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:26.

1793EXO2630csf9figs-activepassive1you were shown on the mountain

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that I have shown you here on this mountain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1794EXO2631yqi61General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses how the tabernacle is to be constructed.

1795EXO2631uc7wfigs-you1You must make

Yahweh is speaking to Moses, so the word you is singular. Yahweh probably expected Moses to tell someone else to do the actual work, but Moses would be the one responsible for seeing that the work was done correctly. “Tell a craftsman to make.” See how you translated this in Exodus 26:1. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

1796EXO2633p2yq1clasps

The clasps fit into the loops to hold the curtains together. See how you translated these in Exodus 26:6.

1797EXO2633d3gmfigs-explicit1you must bring in the ark of the testimony

The ark of the testimony is the chest that contains the commandments. This can be stated clearly in the translation. Alternate translation: “you must bring in the chest containing the commandments” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1798EXO2633jc47figs-activepassive1The curtain is to separate the holy place

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The curtain will separate the holy place” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1799EXO2634v7t11General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1800EXO2634mli81atonement lid

This is the lid that sits on top of the ark where the atonement offering was made. See how you translated this in Exodus 25:17.

1801EXO2634b9m21on the ark of the testimony

“on the chest that contains the commandments”

1802EXO2635lv9efigs-explicit1The table must be on the north side

This is the table that holds the bread that represents the presence of God. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Place the table for the bread of Gods presence on the north side” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1803EXO2636h3s11General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses how to construct the tabernacle.

1804EXO2636p5wf1a hanging

This was a large curtain made of cloth.

1805EXO2636rr161blue, purple, and scarlet material

Possible meanings are (1) “yarn that is dyed blue, purple, and scarlet,” probably wool yarn, or (2) “blue, purple, and scarlet dye” to dye the linen. See how you translated this in Exodus 25:4.

1806EXO2636f6td1fine twined linen

“finely twisted linen.” This was cloth made from fine linen threads that someone twisted together to make a stronger thread.

1807EXO2636r2fy1an embroiderer

“a person who sews designs into cloth” or “a person who embroiders”

1808EXO27introx4f70

Exodus 27 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is a continuation of the material in the previous chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

The tent of meeting

This chapter gives specific instructions regarding the building of a tent where Moses would meet Yahweh and the ark would be stored. This would eventually become the tabernacle. It was to be considered a very holy place. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/tabernacle]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])

1809EXO271hj651General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do (Exodus 25:1).

1810EXO271qj4jtranslate-bdistance1five cubits long and five cubits wide

“2.2 meters long on each side” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1811EXO271hbg9translate-bdistance1The altar must be square and three cubits high

“The altar must be square and 1.3 meters high” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1812EXO271s8qytranslate-bdistance1cubits

A cubit is 46 centimeters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1813EXO272lr231You must make extensions of its four corners shaped like ox horns

“You must make projections that look like ox horns on its four corners”

1814EXO272lek3figs-activepassive1The horns will be made

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “You must make the horns” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1815EXO272y4r21must cover them

“must cover the altar and horns”

1816EXO273qn791General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1817EXO273m4wm1basins

bowls

1818EXO273z5ax1firepans

These were pans that held hot coals from the altar.

1819EXO273j5zt1utensils

These were any instrument, vessel, or tool that served a useful purpose.

1820EXO274fp9m1You must make a grate for the altar, a network of bronze

“You must make a bronze grate for the altar”

1821EXO274hsq31grate

a frame of crossed bars for holding wood when burning

1822EXO275v6n41General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people need to do.

1823EXO275c5emfigs-explicit1You must put the grate under the ledge of the altar

The grate was placed inside the altar. This can be stated clearly in the translation. Alternate translation: “You must put the grate under the rim of the altar, on the inside of the altar” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1824EXO275xc2t1grate

This is a frame of crossed bars for holding wood when burning. See how you translated this in Exodus 27:4.

1825EXO276wki4figs-explicit1You must make poles for the altar

These poles were used for carrying the altar. This can be stated clearly in the translation. Alternate translation: “You must make poles for carrying the altar” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1826EXO277fb3t1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people should do.

1827EXO277b3yxfigs-activepassive1The poles must be put into the rings, and the poles must be on the two sides of the altar, to carry it

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “You must put the poles into the rings and place them on each side of the altar to carry it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1828EXO278xj8e1planks

a long, flat piece of wood that is thicker than a board

1829EXO278t5eyfigs-activepassive1you were shown on the mountain

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that I have shown to you here on this mountain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1830EXO279y45xfigs-activepassive1There must be hangings…courtyard

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “You must place hangings…courtyard” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1831EXO279id4k1hangings of fine twined linen

A “hanging” was a large curtain made of cloth. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:36

1832EXO279v7481fine twined linen

“finely twisted linen.” This was cloth made from fine linen threads that someone twisted together to make a stronger thread

1833EXO279ce9atranslate-bdistance1one hundred cubits

A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “44 meters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1834EXO2710sfg8figs-activepassive1There must also be hooks…posts

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “You must also attach hooks…posts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1835EXO2710k7rb1posts

a strong piece of wood set upright and used as a support

1836EXO2711n95e1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1837EXO2711gjg51there must be hangings one hundred cubits long

See how you translated many similar words in Exodus 27:9.

1838EXO2711x52h1there must be hangings

This could be stated as a command. Alternate translation: “you must make hangings”

1839EXO2711nr771with twenty posts, twenty bronze bases, hooks attached to the posts, and silver rods

See how you translated many similar words in Exodus 27:10.

1840EXO2712p4u41there must be a curtain

This could be stated as a command. Alternate translation: “you must make a curtain”

1841EXO2712elw41There must be ten posts

This could be stated as a command. Alternate translation: “You must make ten posts”

1842EXO2713w2sg1The courtyard must also be fifty cubits long

This could be stated as a command. Alternate translation: “Make the courtyard fifty cubits long”

1843EXO2714mzn51General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1844EXO2714vy7r1The hangings

These were large curtains made of cloth. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:36.

1845EXO2714z8n21posts

These were strong pieces of wood set upright and used as supports. See how you translated these in Exodus 27:10.

1846EXO2714gz7s1bases

These were metal blocks that had a slot in them to keep the board in place. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:19.

1847EXO2714u8nmtranslate-bdistance1fifteen cubits

about seven meters (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1848EXO2716wv461The courtyard gate must be a curtain twenty cubits long

This could be stated as a command. Alternate translation: “You must make a curtain twenty cubits long to be the courtyard gate”

1849EXO2716h4twfigs-activepassive1The curtain must be made…fine twined linen, the work of an embroiderer

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “They must make the curtain…fine twined linen, the work of an embroiderer” or “Embroiderers must make the curtain…fine twined linen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1850EXO2716kn9u1blue, purple, and scarlet material and fine twined linen

Possible meanings are (1) “yarn that is dyed blue, purple, and scarlet,” probably wool yarn, or (2) “blue, purple, and scarlet dye” to dye the linen.

1851EXO2716g5wi1an embroiderer

a person who sews designs into cloth

1852EXO2717wal21General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1853EXO2718wt7ntranslate-bdistance1one hundred cubits

“100 cubits.” A cubit is 46 centimeters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1854EXO2718j1zp1fine twined linen hangings

“finely twisted linen.” This was cloth made from fine linen threads that someone twisted together to make a stronger thread. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:36.

1855EXO2719w5n8figs-activepassive1all the tent pegs for the tabernacle and courtyard must be made of bronze

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “make all the tent pegs for the tabernacle and courtyard out of bronze” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1856EXO2719bs7c1tent pegs

sharp pieces of wood or metal used to secure the corners of a tent to the ground

1857EXO2720wn9n1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1858EXO2721ge7v1tent of meeting

This is another name for the tabernacle.

1859EXO2721p7ru1ark of testimony

This is the chest that contains the sacred slabs of stone on which Yahweh had written his commandments.

1860EXO2721vr7m1This requirement will be a lasting statute

“I require that the people do this as a lasting statute”

1861EXO28intror3yx0

Exodus 28 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Holy garments

Because Yahweh is holy, only the priests could approach him, and when they did they must be wearing specially made clothing. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/priest]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])

1862EXO281bsm11General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what the people must do (Exodus 25:1).

1863EXO281e1xbfigs-you1Call to yourself

Here “yourself” refers to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

1864EXO282tv9hfigs-you1You must make

Here you refers to the people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

1865EXO282t5gyfigs-activepassive1garments that are set apart to me

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “garments that you will set apart to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1866EXO284re791General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what the people must do.

1867EXO284tr5e1a coat of woven work

“a coat with a design woven into it”

1868EXO284dz5h1turban

a tall head covering made from cloth wrapped around the head several times.

1869EXO284k1841sash

a piece of cloth that people wear around their waist or across their chest

1870EXO286yu8u1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1871EXO286u3rx1fine-twined linen

“finely-twisted linen.” This was cloth made from fine linen threads that someone twisted together to make a stronger thread. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:36.

1872EXO286k3bj1skillful craftsman

a person who can make beautiful objects by hand

1873EXO288w523figs-activepassive1it must be made of one piece

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they must make it in one piece” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1874EXO289c4iatranslate-unknown1onyx stones

These are valuable stones that have layers of white and black, red or brown. See how you translated this in Exodus 25:7. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1875EXO2810at1b1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1876EXO2811dv8k1With the work of an engraver in stone, like the engraving on a signet

“In the same way a person engraves on a seal”

1877EXO2811x1xc1engraver

a person who cuts designs into a hard material such as wood, stone, or metal

1878EXO2811cm3f1signet

an engraved stone used to stamp a design into a wax seal

1879EXO2811gh2r1settings

pieces of metal that hold the stone onto the ephod

1880EXO2813hpc71General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1881EXO2813pi4x1settings

These are pieces of metal that hold each stone onto the ephod. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:11.

1882EXO2814e7461two braided chains of pure gold like cords

“two chains of pure gold that are braided like cords”

1883EXO2815ta6b1General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what the people must do.

1884EXO2815sf8e1the work of a skillful workman, fashioned like the ephod

“a skillful workman will make it like the ephod”

1885EXO2816cny4translate-bdistance1span

A span is 22 centimeters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1886EXO2817spd41General Information:

Twelve kinds of stone are listed here. Scholars are not sure which kinds of stones the Hebrew words refer to. Some translations list different stones.

1887EXO2817qp4ttranslate-unknown1precious stones

“valuable gems” or “treasured gems.” See how you translated these in Exodus 25:7. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1888EXO2817n1ystranslate-unknown1ruby…topaz…garnet

These are precious stones. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1889EXO2818ga1v1emerald…diamond

These are precious stones.

1890EXO2818a5rr1sapphire

This is a gemstone that is blue in color. See how you translated this in Exodus 24:10.

1891EXO2819z17r1jacinth…agate…amethyst

These are precious stones

1892EXO2820ul2etranslate-unknown1beryl…jasper

These are precious stones. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1893EXO2820rgf6translate-unknown1onyx

This is a valuable stone that has layers of white and black, red or brown. See how you translated these in Exodus 25:7. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1894EXO2820pw5hfigs-activepassive1They must be mounted in gold settings

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “You must mount them in gold settings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1895EXO2821d6fa1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1896EXO2821x4qnfigs-activepassive1The stones must be arranged

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “You must arrange the stones” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1897EXO2821z8mw1signet ring

A signet is an engraved stone used to stamp a design into a wax seal. Here the stone is mounted on a ring. See how you translated “signet” in Exodus 28:11.

1898EXO2822m7yl1chains like cords, braided work of pure gold

“chains that are made of pure gold and are braided like cords.” See how you translated similar phrases in Exodus 28:14.

1899EXO2825cd3a1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1900EXO2825d8y31braided chains

“chains braided like cords.” See how you translated this in Exodus 28:14.

1901EXO2825a4lcfigs-explicit1to the two settings

These are two settings that enclose the stones. This can be clearly stated in the translation. Alternate translation: “to the two settings that enclose the stones” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1902EXO2827e3851General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1903EXO2827vw1w1finely-woven waistband

This was a cloth belt made from narrow linen threads that someone twisted together to make a stronger thread. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:8.

1904EXO2828se56figs-activepassive1so that it might be attached

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “so that they may attach it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1905EXO2828wf9vfigs-doublenegatives1the breastpiece might not become unattached from the ephod

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “the breastpiece would stay attached to the ephod” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1906EXO2829k21k1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1907EXO2829z1mz1he must carry the names of the people of Israel over his heart in the breastpiece

This refers to the names of the tribes engraved on the twelve stones the breastplate as described in Exodus 28:17-21.

1908EXO2829cc971over his heart

“over Aarons heart” or “on his chest”

1909EXO2830f5371the Urim and the Thummim…the means for making decisions

The second phrase appears to refer to the Urim and Thummim and explain their purpose.

1910EXO2830dgn9translate-unknown1the Urim and the Thummim

It not clear what these are. They were objects, possibly stones, that the priest used to determine somehow the will of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1911EXO2831jl1d1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1912EXO2832x42n1This must be the work of a weaver

This can be stated as a command. Alternate translation: “A weaver must make this robe”

1913EXO2832rw961a weaver

“a person who weaves” or “a person who creates cloth using thread”

1914EXO2833v7gy1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people do.

1915EXO2833t9retranslate-unknown1pomegranates

A pomegranate is a round fruit with a red outer skin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1916EXO2834kl551a golden bell and a pomegranate

This phrase is repeated to show the pattern of the design on the robe.

1917EXO2835de4mfigs-activepassive1The robe is to be on Aaron when he serves

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Aaron must wear the robe when he serves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1918EXO2835pf61figs-activepassive1so that its sound can be heard

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “so that the bells make a sound” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1919EXO2835qtf9figs-explicit1This is so that he does not die

It is implied that he would die because he did not obey Yahweh. This can be stated. Alternate translation: “As a result, he will not die because of disobeying my instructions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1920EXO2836e8qp1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1921EXO2836nd2q1engrave on it, like the engraving on a signet

“write on it in the same way a person engraves on a seal.” See how you translated similar words in Exodus 28:11

1922EXO2837qka61turban

This was a tall head covering made from cloth wrapped around the head several times. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:4.

1923EXO2838ee65figs-activepassive1It must be on Aarons forehead

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Aaron must wear it on his forehead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1924EXO2838u19wfigs-activepassive1The turban must be always on his forehead

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Aaron must always wear the turban on his forehead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1925EXO2839cp681General Information:

God continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1926EXO2839t5vj1turban

This was a tall head covering made from cloth wrapped around the head several times. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:4.

1927EXO2839yi1l1sash

A sash is a decorative piece of cloth that a person wears around his waist or across his chest. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:4.

1928EXO2839i62z1the work of an embroiderer

An embroiderer is a person who sews designs into cloth. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:36.

1929EXO2840sc7t1General Information:

God continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1930EXO2840pfs21sashes

A sash is a decorative piece of cloth that a person wears around his waist or across his chest. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:4.

1931EXO2840v2tj1headbands

A headband is a narrow, decorative strip of cloth that is worn around the head above the eyes.

1932EXO2841xa75figs-explicit1You must clothe Aaron your brother

Aaron was the older brother of Moses. You can state this clearly in the translation. Alternate translation: “Put these clothes on your older brother Aaron” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1933EXO2842vua71General Information:

God continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

1934EXO2842vz621undergarments

These are underwear, clothing worn under the outer clothes, next to the skin.

1935EXO2843s6n21tent of meeting

This is another name for the tabernacle. See how you translated this in Exodus 27:21.

1936EXO2843r7y71a permanent law

“a law the will not end”

1937EXO29introxmd90

Exodus 29 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Consecrating priests

This chapter records the process of consecrating priests. The priests were to be set apart from the rest of Israel because Yahweh is holy. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/consecrate]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/priest]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“I will live among the Israelites”

As God, Yahweh is everywhere and cannot be limited to a single space. This phrase indicates that he permanently remains within Israel in a special way while they have the ark.

1938EXO291d6gk1Now

The word “now” marks a change in topic from garments for priests to consecrating priests.

1939EXO291z78h1you must do

Here you refers to Moses.

1940EXO291ld5s1to set them apart

“to set apart Aaron and his sons”

1941EXO291dq2c1serve me

Here “me” refers to Yahweh.

1942EXO291cgl21one young bull

a male cow

1943EXO292ptm7figs-activepassive1Also take wafers without yeast rubbed with oil

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Also take wafers without yeast and rub them with oil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1944EXO292r4491bread…cakes…wafers

These are different kinds of food made from flour.

1945EXO293u7131General Information:

Yahweh continues to speak to Moses

1946EXO293gm581You must put them

“You must put the bread, cake, and wafer”

1947EXO293cd6mfigs-explicit1present them with the bull and the two rams

Here “present” means to offer as a sacrifice. The full meaning of this can be translated clearly. Alternate translation: “offer them to me when you sacrifice the bull and the two rams” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1948EXO294a6rz1tent of meeting

This is another name for the tabernacle. See how you translated this in Exodus 27:21.

1949EXO295va8b1General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

1950EXO295f7u71coat

This was a coat with a design woven into it. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:4.

1951EXO295pr4i1finely-woven waistband

This was a cloth belt made from narrow linen threads that someone twisted together to make a stronger thread. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:8.

1952EXO296ap2x1turban

This was a tall head covering made from cloth wrapped around the head several times. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:4.

1953EXO296y59s1holy crown

This crown is described in Exodus 29:6 as being engraved with the words “dedicated to Yahweh” and made of pure gold.

1954EXO298s53c1General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

1955EXO298v46k1bring his sons

“bring Aarons sons”

1956EXO298jtc71coats

These were coats with a design woven into them. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:4.

1957EXO299j3a81sashes

A sash is a decorative piece of cloth that people wear around their waist or across their chest. See how you translated this word in Exodus 28:4.

1958EXO299bh2d1headbands

A headband is a narrow, decorative strip of cloth that is worn around the head above the eyes. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:40.

1959EXO299r1x41The work of the priesthood

“the duty of being priests”

1960EXO299ze9lfigs-explicit1will belong to them

The duty of being priests will also belong to the descendants of Aarons sons. You can state this clearly in the translation. Alternate translation: “will belong to them and their descendants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1961EXO299p7m91permanent law

“a law the will not end.” See how you translated this in Exodus 28:43.

1962EXO2910r7821General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

1963EXO2910p9961tent of meeting

This is another name for the tabernacle. See how you translated this in Exodus 27:21.

1964EXO2911bf2m1You must kill the bull

The bull offering was to be killed by Moses, not the priests, at the doorway, not inside the tent of meeting.

1965EXO2911y6kpfigs-explicit1kill the bull

Since the following verses will tell what to do with the blood from the bull, use a term for “kill” that will imply a method similar to “slitting its throat and catch the blood in a bowl.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1966EXO2912uxh31General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

1967EXO2912c2ud1the horns

These were projections that looked like ox horns attached to the four corners of the altar. See how you translated this in Exodus 27:2.

1968EXO2912xdl51the rest of the blood

“the remaining blood”

1969EXO2913x2c51covers the inner parts

“covers the organs”

1970EXO2913nsg61liver…kidneys

These are organs in the body.

1971EXO2914eza81But as for the bulls flesh, as well as its skin and dung

“But as for the remaining parts of the bull”

1972EXO2916hd8i1You must kill the ram

For these consecration sacrifices for the priests, it was Moses, not Aaron or his sons, who had to kill the animals.

1973EXO2917w2nb1the inner parts

“the organs.” See how you translated this in Exodus 29:13.

1974EXO2918s68x1on the altar

Unlike the bull offering that was burned outside of the tent, the ram was to be burned on the inner altar.

1975EXO2919x3iv1General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

1976EXO2920j6b1figs-explicit1Then you must kill the ram

The ram was killed by cutting its throat. This can be stated clearly in the translation. Alternate translation: “Then kill the ram by slitting its throat” or “Then kill the ram by cutting its throat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1977EXO2921saa81General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

1978EXO2921w1aafigs-activepassive1Aaron will then be set apart for me

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “By doing this, you will dedicate Aaron to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1979EXO2922gj681General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

1980EXO2922i3dc1inner parts…liver…kidney

These refer to organs inside the body. See how you translated this in Exodus 29:13.

1981EXO2923td8w1Take one loaf…before Yahweh

For 29:23 see how you translated similar words in Exodus 29:2.

1982EXO2923i7vx1that is before Yahweh

“that you have placed before Yahweh”

1983EXO2924wv9l1General Information:

God continues speaking to Moses.

1984EXO2924b9bj1You must put these

Here “these” refers to the parts of the sacrifice mentioned in the previous verses.

1985EXO2925wz3afigs-activepassive1it will be an offering made to me by fire

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “burn it as an offering to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1986EXO2926acx51General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

1987EXO2926bf711ram of dedication

“ram that you dedicated” or “ram that you killed”

1988EXO2926c21f1Aarons ram of dedication

“the ram that you used to dedicate Aaron”

1989EXO2928uc2d1This will be a perpetual share for Aaron and his sons

“This is what Aaron and his sons will always receive from the people”

1990EXO2929la341General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

1991EXO2929qru8figs-activepassive1The holy garments of Aaron must also be reserved for his sons after him

These garments belong to the priesthood and are not just Aarons personal clothing. Alternate translation: “Aaron must reserve the holy garments for his sons after him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1992EXO2929i5vzfigs-activepassive1They are to be anointed in them and ordained to me in them

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “They must wear the holy garments when you anoint his sons and ordain them to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1993EXO2930pe791tent of meeting

This is another name for the tabernacle. See how you translated this in Exodus 27:21.

1994EXO2931npz11General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

1995EXO2931l3xk1the ram for the installation of the priests

“the ram you killed when you installed the priests”

1996EXO2931u9klfigs-explicit1in a holy place

This is not the same as the holy place outside of the most holy place. This refers to a place within the courtyard. Alternate translation: “at the entrance to the tent of meeting” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1997EXO2932dp8h1tent of meeting

This is another name for the tabernacle. See how you translated this in Exodus 27:21.

1998EXO2933qk8ifigs-activepassive1that were given

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that you sacrificed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1999EXO2934rhp7figs-activepassive1It must not be eaten

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “No one must eat it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2000EXO2934lhi8figs-activepassive1because it has been set apart to me

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “because you have set it apart to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2001EXO2935c2si1General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

2002EXO2935g9pm1In this way, by following all that I have commanded you to do, you must treat Aaron and his sons

“I have commanded you to treat Aaron and his sons this way”

2003EXO2937pq5d1Then the altar will be completely set apart to me

“Then the altar will be most holy”

2004EXO2937qk5h1will be set apart to Yahweh

“will also be very holy”

2005EXO2938e4r91General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

2006EXO2938sli91You must regularly offer on the altar every day

“You must daily offer on the altar”

2007EXO2940rt1f1General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

2008EXO2940x6i4translate-fraction1a tenth…the fourth part

“1/10…1/4” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

2009EXO2940bwg1translate-bvolume1ephah

An ephah is 22 liters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume]])

2010EXO2940vt6ftranslate-bvolume1hin

A hin is 3.7 liters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume]])

2011EXO2941t1tt1General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

2012EXO2941hgt9figs-activepassive1it will be an offering made to me by fire

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “it will be a burnt offering to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2013EXO2942j8cg1throughout your generations

“through all the generations of your descendants.” See how you translated this in Exodus 12:14.

2014EXO2942h5r71tent of meeting

This is another name for the tabernacle. See how you translated this in Exodus 27:21.

2015EXO2943f1t61General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

2016EXO2943ic8ifigs-activepassive1the tent will be set apart for me by my glory

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “My awesome presence will dedicate the tent to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2017EXO2945zcs11General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

2018EXO30introz3yc0

Exodus 30 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Atonement

The atonement offered by the priests was very important in the religious life of Israel. In order to offer sacrifices, the priests had to maintain ritual cleanliness by washing themselves. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/atonement]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/priest]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/clean]])

2019EXO301r1f41General Information:

Yahweh tells Moses how to build the worship equipment.

2020EXO301v8vbfigs-you1You must make

Here you refers to Moses and the people of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

2021EXO302w56efigs-activepassive1Its horns must be made

These were projections that looked like ox horns attached to the four corners of the altar. See how you translated “horns” in Exodus 27:2. Alternate translation: “You must make its horns” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2022EXO303d3uu1General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what the people must do.

2023EXO303ddb21the incense altar

“an altar to burn incense”

2024EXO304qyg4figs-activepassive1to be attached to it

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “which you will attach to the altar” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2025EXO305r61h1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

2026EXO306h33cfigs-explicit1ark of the testimony

The ark is the chest that contains the commandments. This can be stated clearly in the translation. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:33. Alternate translation: “the chest containing the commandments” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2027EXO306e52i1atonement lid

This is the lid that sits on top of the ark where the atonement offering was made. See how you translated this in Exodus 25:17.

2028EXO306vg6kfigs-you1where I will meet with you

Here you refers to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

2029EXO307l2rl1General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what the people must do.

2030EXO308qm7i1throughout your generations

“through all the generations of your descendants.” See how you translated this in Exodus 12:14.

2031EXO309ckf91But you must offer

Though the word you is addressed to Moses, the instruction is given specifically to Aaron and his descendants as to when and what they are to offer on the altar of incense.

2032EXO3010ez2s1General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

2033EXO3010k6xk1horns

These were projections that looked like ox horns attached to the four corners of the altar. See how you translated this in Exodus 27:2.

2034EXO3010san21throughout your generations

“through all the generations of your descendants.” See how you translated this in Exodus 12:14.

2035EXO3012s73cfigs-you1When you take

Possible meanings are (1) you refers to just Moses or (2) you refers to Moses and the leaders of Israel in future generations when they take a census. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

2036EXO3012k5p11a census of the Israelites

The leaders only counted the Israelite men.

2037EXO3013s69sfigs-activepassive1Everyone who is counted

This can be stated in active form. They counted only the men. Alternate translation: “Everyone you count” or “Every man you count” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2038EXO3013i4wktranslate-bmoney1half a shekel of silver

“1/2 a shekel of silver.” Translators may use a unit of measure that people understand and a round number: “5.5 grams of silver” or “six grams of silver” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

2039EXO3013nfp61according to the weight of the shekel of the sanctuary

There were evidently shekels of more than one weight at the time. This specified which one was to be used.

2040EXO3013id6dtranslate-unknown1twenty gerahs

“20 gerahs.” A gerah is a unit that people used for measuring how much something very small weighed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2041EXO3014k4h9figs-metaphor1from twenty years old and up

Larger numbers are spoken of as being up or above smaller numbers. Alternate translation: “from twenty years old and more” or “who is twenty years old or older” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2042EXO3015r7fd1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

2043EXO3015rll61the people

Only the men made this offering.

2044EXO3015e8xatranslate-bmoney1the half shekel

Translators may use a unit of measure that people understand and a round number: “the 5.5 grams of silver” or “the 6 grams of silver.” See how you translated this in Exodus 3:13. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

2045EXO3016z6tn1It must be a reminder to the Israelites before me, to make atonement for your lives

Possible meanings are (1) “It will remind the Israelites to make atonement for their lives” or (2) “It will remind the Israelites that they have made atonement for their lives.”

2046EXO3018ye18figs-you1You must also make

Here you refers to Moses and the people of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

2047EXO3018v88y1bronze basin

“bronze bowl” or “bronze tub”

2048EXO3018bh821a bronze stand

This is what the basin would be put on.

2049EXO3018iq8n1a basin for washing

This phrase explains what the priests were to use the large bronze basin for.

2050EXO3018m5li1the altar

the altar of sacrifice

2051EXO3019jq261General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what the people must do.

2052EXO3019ivb11water in it

“water in the basin”

2053EXO3021hp351for Aaron and his descendants throughout their peoples generations

“for Aaron and all the generations of his descendants.” See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 12:14.

2054EXO3022p8n61General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what the people must do.

2055EXO3023m9g7translate-unknown1spices

dried plants that people grind into a powder and put in oil or food to give it a nice smell or flavor. See how you translated this in Exodus 25:6. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

2056EXO3023zq43translate-numbers1five hundred shekels…250 shekels

“500 shekels…two hundred and fifty shekels.” A shekel is about 11 grams. Translators may use units that people know and round numbers: “5.7 kilograms…11.4 kilograms” or “six kilograms…three kilograms” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

2057EXO3023xga2translate-unknown1cinnamon…cane

These are sweet spices. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

2058EXO3024p9jhtranslate-unknown1cassia

This is a sweet spice. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

2059EXO3024n38ftranslate-bweight1the weight of the shekel of the sanctuary

There were evidently shekels of more than one weight at the time. This specified which one was to be used. See how you translated this in Exodus 30:13. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

2060EXO3024dv89translate-bvolume1one hin

Translators may use units that people know and round numbers: “3.7 liters” or “four liters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

2061EXO3025juf31with these ingredients

“with these items”

2062EXO3025k3s51the work of a perfumer

Possible meanings are (1) Moses was to have a perfumer do the work or (2) Moses was to do the work himself the way a perfumer would do it.

2063EXO3025yv9l1a perfumer

a person who is skilled in mixing spices and oils

2064EXO3026f7k51General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

2065EXO3026u241figs-you1You must anoint

Here you refers to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

2066EXO3026d4idfigs-explicit1ark of the testimony

The ark is the chest that contains the commandments. This can be stated clearly in the translation. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:33. Alternate translation: “the chest containing the commandments” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2067EXO3028v5mk1the altar for burnt offerings

“the altar on which offering were burnt”

2068EXO3029a9hr1General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

2069EXO3029np7g1set them apart

This refers to the items listed in Exodus 30:26-28.

2070EXO3031k4s71throughout your peoples generations

“all the generations of your descendants.” See how you translated this in Exodus 12:14.

2071EXO3032w4dt1General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what Moses must tell the people.

2072EXO3032rlk4figs-activepassive1It must not be applied to peoples skin

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “You must not put the anointing oil that is dedicated to Yahweh on a persons skin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2073EXO3032v3br1with the same formula

“with the same ingredients” or “with the same items”

2074EXO3033pa53figs-metaphor1that person must be cut off from his people

The metaphor “cut off” has at least three possible meanings. They can be expressed in active form: (1) “I will no longer consider him to be one of the people of Israel” (2) “the people of Israel must send him away” or (3) “the people of Israel must kill him.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2075EXO3034r3j21General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what to do. Yahweh gives the commands only to Moses: all instances of you are singular. However, the words “blended by a perfumer” might mean that Moses could have the perfumer take the spices, blend them, grind them, and give them to Moses so Moses could put part of the mixture in front of the ark, as in UST.

2076EXO3035as9yfigs-activepassive1Make it into the form of incense, blended by a perfumer

The phrase with “blended” can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Make it into the form of incense that a perfumer has blended” or “A perfumer must blend it into a kind of incense” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2077EXO3035y8yj1blended by a perfumer

Possible meanings are (1) Moses was to have a perfumer do the work or (2) Moses was to do the work himself the way a perfumer would do it. See how you translated these words in Exodus 30:25.

2078EXO3036nz2afigs-you1You will grind it

“You will crush it.” Here you refers to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

2079EXO3036t8y9figs-you1You will regard

Here you is plural and refers to Moses and all the people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

2080EXO3037z4p51General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

2081EXO3037dq6c1you must not make any

The word you here refers to the people of Israel.

2082EXO3037yv1y1with the same formula

“with the same ingredients” or “with the same items.” See how you translated this in Exodus 30:32.

2083EXO3037wh251It must be most holy to you

“You must consider it to be most holy”

2084EXO3038xn6v1perfume

This is a pleasant smelling liquid a person puts on his or her body.

2085EXO3038sa1mfigs-metaphor1must be cut off from his people

The metaphor “cut off” has at least three possible meanings. They can be expressed in active form: (1) “I will no longer consider him to be one of the people of Israel” (2) “the people of Israel must send him away” or (3) “the people of Israel must kill him.” See how you translated this in Exodus 30:33. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2086EXO31introwfk70

Exodus 31 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is the end of Exodus recording of the law of Moses. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])

Special concepts in this chapter

Sabbath

As described in this chapter, the Sabbath is more than just a day of worship or celebration. Its significance extends beyond a way to help people rest. It is a major part of the identity of the Hebrew people. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sabbath]])

2087EXO312m8jufigs-metonymy1I have called by name

God speaks of choosing specific people as calling them by name. Alternate translation: “I have chosen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2088EXO312hf5rtranslate-names1Bezalel…Uri…Hur

These are names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2089EXO313ayb91General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

2090EXO313f7skfigs-metaphor1I have filled Bezalel with my Spirit

Yahweh speaks of giving Bezalel his Spirit as if Bezalel were a container and Gods Spirit were a liquid. Alternate translation: “I have given my Spirit to Bezalel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2091EXO313r6i5figs-abstractnouns1for all kinds of craftsmanship

The abstract noun “craftsmanship” can be translated as “making crafts” or “making things.” Alternate translation: “for making all kinds of crafts” or “so that he can make all kinds of things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2092EXO316qk4r1General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

2093EXO316jh61translate-names1Oholiab…Ahisamak

These are names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2094EXO316wcq71I have put skill into the hearts of all who are wise

God speaks of making people able to make things as if he were putting the ability into their hearts. Alternate translation: “I have given skill to all who are wise” or “I have made all who are wise able to make things well”

2095EXO317jc781tent of meeting

This is another name for the tabernacle. See how you translated this in Exodus 27:21.

2096EXO317m58bfigs-explicit1ark of the testimony

The ark is the chest that contains the commandments. This can be stated clearly in the translation. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:33. Alternate translation: “the chest containing the commandments” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2097EXO317z5s41atonement lid

This is the lid that sits on top of the ark where the atonement offering was made. See how you translated this in Exodus 25:17.

2098EXO318h84n1incense altar

“altar to burn incense.” See how you translated this in Exodus 30:3.

2099EXO319cvl71altar for burnt offerings

“altar on which offering were burnt.” See how you translated this in Exodus 30:28.

2100EXO3110hn881General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

2101EXO3111z1u21These craftsmen

“These people who are skilled in making beautiful things”

2102EXO3113i1lwfigs-metaphor1You must certainly keep Yahwehs Sabbath days

God speaks of obeying his instructions about the Sabbath as keeping the Sabbath. Alternate translation: “You must certainly obey Yahwehs instructions about the Sabbath” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2103EXO3113gw131throughout your peoples generations

“through all the generations of your descendants.” See how you translated this in Exodus 12:14.

2104EXO3113h75afigs-metaphor1who sets you apart for himself

God speaks of choosing people to be his as setting them apart for himself. Alternate translation: “who has chosen you to be his people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2105EXO3114g83pfigs-activepassive1for it must be treated by you as holy

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “for you must treat it as holy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2106EXO3114mv4lfigs-metaphor1Everyone who defiles it

God speaks of treating the Sabbath with disrespect as defiling it. Alternate translation: “Everyone who treats the Sabbath with disrespect” or “Everyone who does not obey the laws about the Sabbath” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2107EXO3114plq5figs-activepassive1must surely be put to death

“must surely be killed.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you must surely kill” or “you must surely execute” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2108EXO3114fz1gfigs-metaphor1must surely be cut off from his people

The metaphor “cut off” has at least three possible meanings. They can be expressed in active form: (1) “Yahweh will no longer consider him to be one of his people” (2) “you must surely send him away” or (3) “you must surely kill him.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2109EXO3115v4dvtranslate-numbers1but the seventh day

“but day 7” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2110EXO3116iv7a1General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what he must tell the people of Israel.

2111EXO3116t9hwfigs-metaphor1must keep the Sabbath

God speaks of obeying his instructions about the Sabbath as keeping the Sabbath. Alternate translation: “must obey Yahwehs instructions about the Sabbath” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2112EXO3116n7q21They must observe it throughout their peoples generations

“They and all the generations of their descendants must observe it.” See how you translated “throughout their peoples generations” in Exodus 12:42.

2113EXO3116yef81lasting covenant

“a covenant that will always exist.” See how you translated this in Exodus 28:43.

2114EXO3118xc6hfigs-activepassive1written on by his own hand

This can be translated with an active verb. Alternate translation: “which Yahweh wrote on with his own hand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2115EXO32introvv2w0

Exodus 32 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The events of this chapter occur while Moses spoke with God and therefore happen at the same time as the events in chapters 20-31.

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 32:18.

Special concepts in this chapter

Idolatry

The making of the golden calf was considered a form of idolatry. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2116EXO321cfk8figs-metaphor1the people saw

Here understanding something is spoken of as if it were being seen. Alternate translation: “the people realized” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2117EXO321k2i11Come, make us an idol

The word “come” strengthens the force of the command following it. The people were demanding that Aaron make an idol for them.

2118EXO321mrb51go before us

“lead us” or “be our leader”

2119EXO322p86s1bring them to me

The word “them” refers to the golden rings.

2120EXO323ckg21All the people

This refers to all the people who rejected Moses as their leader and Moses God as their God.

2121EXO324uf9e1fashioned it with an engraving tool and he made a cast idol in the shape of a calf

Aaron melted the gold and poured it into a mold that had the shape of a calf. When the gold became hard, he removed the mold, and the hardened gold had the shape of a calf.

2122EXO325ztx4figs-explicit1When Aaron saw this

You may need to make explicit what he saw. “When Aaron saw what the people did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2123EXO326as6u1to carouse in wild celebration

“to have a wild party.” The people likely behaved in sexually immoral ways at the party.

2124EXO328eua5figs-metaphor1left the way that I commanded them

Here God speaks of the people disobeying what he commanded them as if he had told them to walk on a certain road and they left that road. Alternate translation: “stopped doing what I commanded them to do” or “have stopped obeying what I commanded them to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2125EXO329bh7cfigs-metaphor1I have seen this people

Here Yahweh compares knowing the people to seeing them. Alternate translation: “I know this people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2126EXO329ffe2figs-metaphor1a stiff-necked people

Yahweh speaks of the people being stubborn as if they had stiff necks. Alternate translation: “a stubborn people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2127EXO3210fmk31Now then

The word “now” is used here to mark a break in what Yahweh was telling Moses. Here Yahweh tells what he will do to the people.

2128EXO3210sd9wfigs-metaphor1My anger will burn hot against them

Yahweh speaks of his anger as if it were a fire that could burn hot. Alternate translation: “My anger towards them will be terrible” or “I am extremely angry with them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2129EXO3210vc2ufigs-you1from you

The word you refers to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

2130EXO3211h62efigs-metaphor1why does your anger burn against your people…a mighty hand?

Moses used this question to try to persuade Yahweh not to be so angry with his people. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “Do not let your anger burn against your people…a mighty hand.” or “Do not be so angry with your people…a mighty hand.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

2131EXO3211t2cvfigs-doublet1great power…mighty hand

These two phrases share similar meanings and are combined for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

2132EXO3211ph43figs-metonymy1a mighty hand

Here the word “hand” refers to the things Yahweh did. Alternate translation: “and the powerful things you did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2133EXO3212k26p1General Information:

Moses continues to reason with God not to destroy Israel.

2134EXO3212r8ijfigs-rquestion1Why should the Egyptians say, He led them out…to destroy them from the face of the earth?

Moses used this question to try to persuade God not to destroy his people. This rhetorical question can be translated with a statement. Alternate translation: If you destroy your people, the Egyptians might say, He led them out…to destroy them from the face of the earth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

2135EXO3212kzh71face of the earth

“from the surface of the earth” or “from the earth”

2136EXO3212fns11Turn from your burning anger

“Stop your burning anger” or “Stop being so angry”

2137EXO3212p1dffigs-metaphor1your burning anger

Moses speaks of Gods anger as if it were a fire that was burning. Alternate translation: “your terrible anger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2138EXO3213t9sa1Call to mind Abraham

“Remember Abraham” or “Think about Abraham”

2139EXO3213p8jq1you swore

“you made an oath” or “you solemnly promised”

2140EXO3213q1g1figs-metaphor1They will inherit it forever

God speaks about them possessing the land as if they would inherit it. Alternate translation: “They will possess it forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2141EXO3215cx7z1tablets of the covenant decrees

These are the two stone slabs on which God had engraved his commandments.

2142EXO3216w3uafigs-parallelism1The tablets were Gods own work, and the writing was Gods own writing

These two phrases share similar meanings. The second explains how the tablets were “Gods own work.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

2143EXO3217cua3figs-explicit1he said to Moses

It is assumed that Joshua met Moses while Moses was going back to the camp. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2144EXO3219hr2j1the tablets

“the two stone slabs that Yahweh had written on”

2145EXO3221du5lfigs-quotations1Then Moses said to Aaron, “What did this people…a great sin on them?”

This can be stated as an indirect quote. Alternate translation: “Then Moses asked Aaron what the people do to him, that he have brought such a great sin on them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

2146EXO3221np73figs-metaphor1you have brought such a great sin on them

Moses spoke of causing people to sin as if sin were an object and Aaron put it on them. Alternate translation: “you have caused them to sin so terribly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2147EXO3222z2chfigs-metaphor1Do not let your anger burn hot

Aaron spoke of Moses anger as if it were a fire that could burn. “Do not be so angry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2148EXO3222vdy2figs-metaphor1they are set on doing evil

Being determined to do evil is spoken of as being set on evil. Alternate translation: “they are determined to do what is evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2149EXO3223zn681this Moses

People showed disrespect by putting the word “this” before his name, as if Moses were someone they did not know and could not trust.

2150EXO3224yq7sfigs-quotations1So I said to them, Whoever has any gold, let him take it off.

This can be stated as an indirect quote. Alternate translation: “So I told them that whoever had any gold should take it off” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

2151EXO3224b3l51I threw it into the fire, and out came this calf

Instead of taking ownership for making the calf, Aaron claims the calf came out of the fire supernaturally.

2152EXO3225ck1f1were running wild

“were behaving wildly” or “were not controlling themselves”

2153EXO3226jis7figs-quotations1Then Moses stood at the entrance…“Whoever is on Yahwehs side, come to me.”

This can be stated as an indirect quote. Alternate translation: “Then Moses stood at the entrance to the camp and said that whoever was on Yahwehs side should come to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

2154EXO3226ryb5figs-metaphor1Whoever is on Yahwehs side

Moses speaks of being loyal to Yahweh as being on Yahwehs side. Alternate translation: “Whoever is loyal to Yahweh” or “Whoever serves Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2155EXO3227xsl31go back and forth from entrance to entrance

“go from side of the camp to the other, starting at one entrance to the camp and going to the entrance on the other side of the camp”

2156EXO3228at4itranslate-numbers1three thousand of the people

“3000 of the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2157EXO3229jzp11You have been placed into Yahwehs service

This probably means “You have been chosen to serve Yahweh” or “You have become Yahwehs servants.”

2158EXO3229c6fgfigs-explicit1for each of you has taken action against his son and his brother

The fact that they did this in obedience to God can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “for you have obeyed Yahweh and killed your sons and your brothers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2159EXO3230r5fn1You have committed a very great sin

They worshiped an idol.

2160EXO3230yi3efigs-metaphor1Perhaps I can make atonement for your sin

Moses spoke of persuading God to forgive the people as if he could make atonement for their sin. Alternate translation: “Perhaps I can persuade Yahweh to forgive you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2161EXO3232c72yfigs-metonymy1blot me out of the book

The word “me” here refers to the name of Moses. Alternate translation: “erase my name from the book” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2162EXO3232ahb3figs-explicit1the book that you have written

What God had written in the book can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “the book in which you have written the names of your people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2163EXO3233igb4figs-metonymy1that person I will blot out of my book

The phrase “that person” represents “that persons name.” Alternate translation: “I will erase that persons name from my book” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2164EXO3233qwk91my book

This refers to the book of Yahweh that Moses spoke of in Exodus 32:32.

2165EXO3234xn8p1But on the day that I punish them, I will punish them

On the day that God decides to punish them, it will be clear that it is God who is judging them.

2166EXO3235ddg61Yahweh sent a plague on the people

This plague may have been a serious illness. Alternate translation: “Yahweh made the people very sick”

2167EXO3235wv1v1they had made the calf, the one that Aaron made

Even though Aaron made the calf, the people were also guilty because they told Aaron to do it. Alternate translation: “they told Aaron to make the calf”

2168EXO33introg5k30

Exodus 33 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Covenant

While the covenants Yahweh made may not be conditioned upon the obedience of Israel, it is clear that their conquering of the Promised Land was conditioned on their obedience to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/promisedland]])

2169EXO331p8xp1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses of his anger.

2170EXO333yyt4figs-metonymy1that land, which is flowing with milk and honey

The land was good for raising livestock and growing crops. See how you translated this in Exodus 3:8. Alternate translation: “a land that is excellent for raising livestock and growing crops” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2171EXO333y3471flowing with

“full of” or “with an abundance of”

2172EXO333ck4mfigs-metonymy1milk

Since milk comes from cows and goats, this represents food produced by livestock. Alternate translation: “food from livestock” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2173EXO333a4ctfigs-metonymy1honey

Since honey is produced from flowers, this represents food from crops. Alternate translation: “food from crops” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2174EXO333ah5t1a stubborn people

“people who refuse to change”

2175EXO334cf7g1jewelry

beautiful clothing as well as chains and rings with jewels in them

2176EXO335rzr51a stubborn people

“people who refuse to change.” See how you translated this in Exodus 33:3.

2177EXO339yt4ffigs-metaphor1the pillar of cloud

The cloud had the shape of a pillar. See how you translated this in Exodus 13:22. Alternate translation: “the cloud shaped like a pillar” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2178EXO339vam7figs-explicit1would come down

Where it came down from can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “would come down from the sky” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2179EXO3311zrb8figs-metaphor1Yahweh would speak to Moses face to face

Speaking directly rather than through dreams and visions, is spoken of as if Moses and God saw each others faces while they spoke. Alternate translation: “Yahweh would speak directly to Moses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2180EXO3311ika81young man

Joshua was old enough to be a soldier, but he was much younger than Moses

2181EXO3312unz81See

“Look!” or “Listen!” or “Pay attention to what I am about to tell you”

2182EXO3312w7fsfigs-idiom1I know you by name

To know someone by name is to know them well. Alternate translation: “I know you well” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2183EXO3312a7jrfigs-idiom1you have also found favor in my eyes

Here “found favor” is an idiom that means be approved of or that God is pleased with Moses. Here “eyes” are a metonym for sight, and sight is a metaphor representing Gods evaluation. Alternate translation: “I have evaluated you and approve” or “I am pleased with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2184EXO3313e6vvfigs-idiom1Now if I have found favor in your eyes

Here “found favor” is an idiom that means be approved of or that God is pleased with Moses. Here “eyes” are a metonym for sight, and sight is a metaphor representing Gods evaluation. Alternate translation: “Now If you are pleased with me” or “Now if you approve of me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2185EXO3313zi7j1show me your ways

Possible meanings: (1) “show me what you are going to do in the future” or (2) “show me how people can do what pleases you.”

2186EXO3314gh8qfigs-metonymy1My own presence will go

Gods presence represents himself. Alternate translation: “I will go” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2187EXO3314hl15figs-you1go with you…give you

The word you here refers to Moses. It is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

2188EXO3314hc5n1I will give you rest

“I will let you rest”

2189EXO3316d36k1For otherwise

“For if your presence does not go with us”

2190EXO3316tu8efigs-activepassive1how will it be known

This can be expressed with an active form. Alternate translation: how will people know” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2191EXO3316cgl8figs-rquestion1how will it be known…people?

Moses used this question in order to emphasize that if God does not go with them, no one will know that Moses had found favor in Gods sight. Alternate translation: “no one will know…people.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

2192EXO3316u82a1Will it not only be if

“Will it not only be known if”

2193EXO3317aln2figs-you1General Information:

When Yahweh uses the word you in this verse, it is singular and refers to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

2194EXO3317ln7yfigs-idiom1you have found favor in my eyes

Here “found favor” is an idiom that means that God is pleased with Moses. Here “eyes” are a metonym for sight, and sight is a metaphor representing his evaluation. See how you translated this in Exodus 33:12. Alternate translation: “I am pleased with you” or “I approve of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2195EXO3317u2nvfigs-idiom1I know you by name

To know someone by name is to know them well. See how you translated this in Exodus 33:12. Alternate translation: “I know you well” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2196EXO3319sx1afigs-metonymy1I will make all my goodness pass before you

God speaks of walking past Moses so that Moses can see his goodness as if only his goodness would go past Moses. Alternate translation: “I will move past you so that you may see my goodness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2197EXO3321s4iy1See

“Look” or “Listen” or “Pay attention to what I am about to tell you.”

2198EXO3323fmu81you will see my back

This is because Yahweh will be walking away from Moses.

2199EXO3323gw1nfigs-activepassive1but my face will not be seen

This can be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “but you will not see my face” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2200EXO34introsmp60

Exodus 34 General Notes

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“He will bring the punishment for the fathers sin on their children”

This phrase does not mean that a child is necessarily punished for the sins of their parents. Many scholars believe that this passage indicates that a parents sins will have consequences that will affect their children and grandchildren. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])

2201EXO341s1kv1tablets of stone

“flat slabs of stone.” See how you translated this in Exodus 31:18

2202EXO343fk8z1General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

2203EXO343ck6dfigs-metonymy1Do not let anyone else be seen anywhere on the mountain

Being seen doing something represents doing that. Alternate translation: “Do not let anyone else be anywhere on the mountain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2204EXO343x3rx1No flocks or herds are even to graze in front of the mountain

“Even flocks or herds are not allowed to come near the mountain to eat.”

2205EXO345sp7f1stood with Moses there

“stood with Moses on the mountain”

2206EXO345r9eyfigs-metonymy1he pronounced the name “Yahweh.”

Possible meanings are (1) “he spoke the name Yahweh.’” or (2) “he proclaimed who Yahweh is.” For the second meaning, “name” would represent who God is. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2207EXO346fz1qfigs-123person1Yahweh, Yahweh, God is merciful and gracious

God is speaking about himself. Alternate translation: “I, Yahweh, am God, and I am merciful and gracious” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

2208EXO346e1k31abounding in covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness

“always showing covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness”

2209EXO346j7wefigs-abstractnouns1abounding in covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness

The abstract nouns “faithfulness” and “trustworthiness” can be stated as “faithful” and “trustworthy.” Alternate translation: “always being faithful to my covenant and always being trustworthy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2210EXO347lt2jfigs-abstractnouns1keeping covenant faithfulness for thousands of generations

The abstract noun “faithfulness” can be stated as “faithfully” or “faithful.” See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 20:6. Alternate translation: “faithfully loving thousands of generations” or “faithful to his covenant with thousands of generation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2211EXO347q7z8figs-123person1But he will

Yahweh is speaking about himself. Alternate translation: “But I will” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

2212EXO347x397figs-123person1he will by no means clear the guilty

Yahweh is speaking about himself. Alternate translation: “I will by no means clear the guilty” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

2213EXO347ts1b1will by no means clear the guilty

“will certainly not clear the guilty” or “will certainly not say that the guilty are innocent” or “will certainly not free guilty people”

2214EXO347px85figs-metaphor1He will bring the punishment for the fathers sin on their children

Punishing people is spoken of as if punishment were an object that someone could bring on people. Alternate translation: “He will punish the children for their fathers sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2215EXO347c3tbfigs-metonymy1their children

The word “children” represents descendants. Alternate translation: “their descendants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2216EXO349mh3afigs-idiom1If now I have found favor in your eyes

Here “found favor” is an idiom that means be approved of or that God is pleased with Moses. Here “eyes” are a metonym for sight, and sight is a metaphor representing his evaluation. See how you translated this in Exodus 33:12. Alternate translation: “Now If you are pleased with me” or “Now if you approve of me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2217EXO349hw66figs-doublet1our iniquity and our sin

The words “iniquity” and “sin” mean basically the same thing and are combined for emphasis. Alternate translation: “all our sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

2218EXO349n6e5figs-metaphor1take us as your inheritance

Something that someone possesses forever is spoken of as if it were something that they had inherited. Alternate translation: “take us as the people that you possess forever” or “accept us as the people who belong to you forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2219EXO3410zdq6figs-you1your people

Here “your” refers to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

2220EXO3410bj1afigs-idiom1it is a fearful thing that I am doing with you

A fearful thing is a thing that causes people to be afraid. In this case, people will fear God when they see what he does. Alternate translation: “what I do for you will cause people to fear me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2221EXO3410s7uzfigs-you1I am doing with you

Here you refers to Moses and the people of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

2222EXO3412b4591General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses. Here he tells him what Moses and the people must do.

2223EXO3412lxz8figs-metaphor1they will become a trap among you

People who tempt others to sin are spoken of as if they were a trap. Alternate translation: “they will tempt you to sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2224EXO3414vmx2figs-metonymy1Yahweh, whose name is Jealous

The word “Jealous” here means that God is concerned to keep his honor. If his people worship other gods, he loses honor, because when his people do not honor him, other people also will not honor him. Alternate translation: “I, Yahweh, always guard my honor” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2225EXO3414s5sdfigs-metonymy1whose name is Jealous,

The word “name” here represents Gods character. Alternate translation: “I, Yahweh, who am always jealous” or “I, Yahweh, am always jealous” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2226EXO3415f1e31Connecting Statement:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses how his people are to behave towards outsiders.

2227EXO3415gtd8figs-metaphor1for they prostitute themselves to their gods

God speaks of people worshiping other gods as if they were prostitutes going to other men. Alternate translation: “for they worship other gods” or “because they worship other gods like prostitutes who go to other men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2228EXO3415bj2ifigs-explicit1you will eat some of his sacrifice

The consequence of eating food that is sacrificed to another god can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “you will eat some of his sacrifice and become guilty of worshiping his gods” or “and you will prostitute yourself to his god by eating some of his sacrifice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2229EXO3418s1rr1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

2230EXO3418u5betranslate-numbers1seven days

“7 days” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2231EXO3418i5cktranslate-hebrewmonths1in the month of Aviv

This is the name of the first month of the Hebrew calendar. Aviv is during the last part of March and the first part of April on Western calendars. See how you translated “Aviv” in Exodus 13:4. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2232EXO3419ly7d1General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what the people must do.

2233EXO3420yz8x1buy back

Firstborn sons and firstborn donkeys belonged to Yahweh, but Yahweh did not want them sacrificed to Him. Instead, the Israelites were to sacrifice a lamb in their place. This allowed the Israelites to buy the donkeys and sons back from Yahweh.

2234EXO3420u2p5figs-metonymy1No one may appear before me empty-handed

God speaks of the offering as if the person was to carry it in his hands. Alternate translation: “No one may come to me without an offering” or “Everyone who comes to me must bring me an offering” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2235EXO3421w9ed1General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what the people must do.

2236EXO3421swm81Even at plowing time and in harvest

“Even when you are preparing the soil or gathering the crops”

2237EXO3422d13l1Festival of Ingathering

This festival was also known as the Festival of Shelters or the Festival of Booths. The idea came from the practice of the farmers living in temporary booths, or huts, out in the fields to guard the crop as it ripened. The word “Ingathering” means when they harvest their crop.

2238EXO3423zh581General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses what the people must do.

2239EXO3425zx2v1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

2240EXO3425e8v2figs-explicit1the blood of my sacrifice

The fact that the blood is from an animal can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “the blood of an animal that you sacrifice to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2241EXO3425k2f7figs-explicit1with any yeast

The fact that any yeast would be in bread can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “with bread that has yeast in it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2242EXO3428mm6l1Moses was there

“Moses was on the mountain”

2243EXO3428j9t4translate-numbers1forty days

“40 days” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2244EXO3428wt1c1for forty days and nights

“for forty days, both day and night”

2245EXO3428yun21He wrote

“Moses wrote”

2246EXO3429d9zk1had become radiant

“had started to shine”

2247EXO3431jfb41came up to him

“approached him” or “went to him.” They did not go up the mountain.

2248EXO3432kt23figs-metaphor1all the commands that Yahweh had given him

Telling commands is spoken of as if the commands were objects that could be given. Alternate translation: “all the commands that Yahweh had told him” or “everything that Yahweh had commanded them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2249EXO3434fzm11he would remove

“Moses would remove”

2250EXO3434m1svfigs-activepassive1what he was commanded

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh had commanded him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2251EXO35introlew90

Exodus 35 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Sacrifice

All of the people offered sacrifices to Yahweh. This was a form of worship and a sign of repentance from making the golden calf idol. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/worship]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]])

2252EXO352c559translate-ordinal1the seventh day

“day number seven” or “Saturday” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

2253EXO352zij9figs-activepassive1Whoever does any work on that day must be put to death

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “You must kill anyone who does work on that day” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2254EXO354jdb81General Information:

In Exodus 35:4-9, Moses tells the Israelites to make the things Yahweh commanded him in Exodus 25:3-7.

2255EXO355h5c81General Information:

In Exodus 35:4-9, Moses tells the Israelites to make the things Yahweh commanded him in Exodus 25:3-7.

2256EXO355n2c81Take an offering for Yahweh

“Take up a collection for Yahweh”

2257EXO355y2x6figs-synecdoche1all of you who have a willing heart

Here “heart” refers to the person bringing the offering. Alternate translation: “everyone who is willing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

2258EXO356r12v1General Information:

In Exodus 35:4-9, Moses tells the Israelites to make the things Yahweh commanded him in Exodus 25:3-7.

2259EXO357nmv41General Information:

In Exodus 35:4-9, Moses tells the Israelites to make the things Yahweh commanded him in Exodus 25:3-7.

2260EXO357l5bq1ram skins dyed red and fine leather hides

See how you translated similar phrases in Exodus 25:5.

2261EXO358ikm41General Information:

In Exodus 35:4-9, Moses tells the Israelites to make the things Yahweh commanded him in Exodus 25:3-7.

2262EXO359f1dd1General Information:

In Exodus 35:4-9, Moses tells the Israelites to make the things Yahweh commanded him in Exodus 25:3-7.

2263EXO3510c31r1General Information:

Moses continues telling the people what God commanded them to do.

2264EXO3510dc4b1Every skilled man

“Every man with a skill”

2265EXO3511j5t71clasps

The clasps fit into the loops to hold the curtains together. See how you translated these in Exodus 26:6.

2266EXO3511syn41bases

These are heavy objects that rest on the ground and keep the object attached to them from moving. See how you translated this in Exodus 25:31.

2267EXO3512rj7s1atonement lid

This is the lid that sits on top of the ark where the atonement offering was made. See how you translated this in Exodus 25:17.

2268EXO3513x3tl1They brought

“The people of Israel brought”

2269EXO3513l6411bread of the presence

This bread represented the presence of God. See how you translated this in Exodus 25:30.

2270EXO3516h1161bronze grate

This is a frame of crossed bronze bars for holding wood when burning. See how you translated “grate” in Exodus 27:4.

2271EXO3517h8zl1hangings

These were large curtains made of cloth. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:36.

2272EXO3517x54f1posts

These were strong pieces of wood set upright and used as supports. See how you translated these in Exodus 27:10.

2273EXO3517xtm81bases

These were blocks that had a slot in them to keep the board in place. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:19.

2274EXO3518n44r1tent pegs

sharp pieces of wood or metal used to secure the corners of a tent to the ground. See how you translated this in Exodus 27:19.

2275EXO3519x1pc1finely-woven garments

This was clothing made from narrow linen threads that someone twisted together to make a stronger thread. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:8.

2276EXO3520w6rgfigs-metonymy1all the tribes of Israel

This refers to the people in the tribes. Alternate translation: “the people from all the tribes of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2277EXO3521b9wkfigs-synecdoche1whose heart stirred him up

Here “heart” refers to the person. The heart that responded to God is spoken of as if it were water stirred up by a storm. Alternate translation: “who responded to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2278EXO3521be9zfigs-synecdoche1whom his spirit made willing

Here “spirit” refers to the person. Alternate translation: “who was willing” or “who wanted to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

2279EXO3522mwx8figs-synecdoche1all who had a willing heart

Here “heart” refers to the person. Alternate translation: “everyone who was willing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

2280EXO3522wwp21brooches, earrings, rings, and ornaments

These are different kinds of jewelry.

2281EXO3523s3ky1Everyone who had…brought them

For 35:23 see how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:4-5.

2282EXO3525ebm51blue, purple, or scarlet wool

Possible meanings are (1) “material that is dyed blue, purple, and scarlet,” probably wool yarn, or (2) “blue, purple and scarlet dye” to dye the linen. See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 25:4.

2283EXO3526k1gyfigs-synecdoche1whose hearts stirred them up

Here “hearts” refers to the women. The hearts of the women who responded to God are spoken of as if they were water stirred up by a storm. Alternate translation: “who responded to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2284EXO3527f13n1The leaders brought…breastpiece

For 35:27 see how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:7.

2285EXO3528h3a11they brought spices…fragrant incense

For 35:28 see how you translated many similar words in Exodus 25:6

2286EXO3529li5zfigs-synecdoche1whose heart was willing

Here “heart” refers to the people. Alternate translation: “who was willing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

2287EXO3530z1e21Bezalel son of Uri son of Hur, from the tribe of Judah

See how you translated this in Exodus 31:2

2288EXO3531gse9figs-metaphor1He has filled Bezalel with his Spirit

Gods Spirit who gave Bezalel the ability to work is spoken of here as if he was something that filled up Bezalel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2289EXO3531zd741filled Bezalel…craftsmanship

See how you translated many similar words in Exodus 31:3

2290EXO3532r7e31to make artistic designs…bronze

See how you translated many similar words in Exodus 31:4

2291EXO3533fj6f1also to cut and set stones…craftsmanship

See how you translated many similar words in Exodus 31:5

2292EXO3534a1r81General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people.

2293EXO3534xd67figs-synecdoche1He has put it in his heart to teach

Here “heart” refers to Bezalel. The ability to teach is spoken of as if it something that could be placed in a heart. Alternate translation: “He gave Bezalel the ability to teach” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2294EXO3534ab2ztranslate-names1Oholiab son of Ahisamak, from the tribe of Dan

“Oholiab” and “Ahisamak” are names of men. See how you translated these names in Exodus 31:6. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2295EXO3535rcv9figs-metaphor1filled them with skill

Skill to create beautiful objects is spoken of as if it were something that could fill up a person. Alternate translation: “made them very skillful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2296EXO3535me141engravers

a person who cuts designs into a hard material such as wood, stone, or metal

2297EXO3535u7tf1embroiderers

people who sew designs into cloth

2298EXO3535r8zk1craftsmen

people who are skilled in making beautiful objects by hand

2299EXO3535cw3x1weavers

a person who creates cloth using thread

2300EXO3535a6c31artistic designers

a person who creates beauty with materials

2301EXO36intronz4n0

Exodus 36 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Tent of meeting

The tent of meeting, or tabernacle, mentioned in previous chapters is constructed in this chapter. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/tabernacle]])

2302EXO361ubk21General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people.

2303EXO361ds99translate-names1Bezalel

This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in Exodus 31:2. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2304EXO361tl5btranslate-names1Oholiab

This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in Exodus 31:6. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2305EXO361tr3pfigs-metaphor1to whom Yahweh has given skill and ability

Here skill and ability are spoken of as if they are something that Yahweh can place inside a person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2306EXO361mdi41according to all that Yahweh has commanded

“just as Yahweh has commanded”

2307EXO362tgn2translate-names1Bezalel

This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in Exodus 31:2. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2308EXO362wq6qtranslate-names1Oholiab

This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in Exodus 31:6. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2309EXO362tda7figs-synecdoche1in whose mind Yahweh had given skill

Here “mind” refers to the person who was made skillful by Yahweh. Alternate translation: “to whom Yahweh had given skill” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

2310EXO362yuq8figs-synecdoche1whose heart stirred within him

Here “heart” refers to the person. The heart that responded to God is spoken of as if it were water stirred up by a storm. Alternate translation: “who responded to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2311EXO365tni7figs-quotations1The craftsmen told Moses…commanded us to do.”

The can be stated as an indirect quote. Alternate translation: “The craftsmen told Moses that the people were bringing much more than enough for doing the work that Yahweh has commanded them to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

2312EXO365pd951The craftsmen told Moses

“The men working on the sanctuary told Moses”

2313EXO368kw331General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:1.

2314EXO368l7ub1ten curtains made from fine linen

These curtains are sheets of cloth woven and sewed together so that they can hang to form a wall or tent.

2315EXO368s2hutranslate-names1Bezalel

This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in Exodus 31:2. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2316EXO369p2mr1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:2.

2317EXO3610z6sq1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:3.

2318EXO3611yw911General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:4.

2319EXO3611qh6e1He made

Here “he” refers to Bezalel, but it includes all the men working on the sanctuary.

2320EXO3611y7vq1loops of blue

loops of blue cloth

2321EXO3611i4ba1curtain

These were large, heavy sections of woven cloth that were used to form the covering and dividing walls of the tabernacle. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:1.

2322EXO3612k1qq1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:5.

2323EXO3613z2zi1General Information

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:6.

2324EXO3613j75xtranslate-numbers1fifty gold clasps

“50 gold clasps” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2325EXO3614m2ac1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:7.

2326EXO3614us17translate-numbers1made eleven

“made 11” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2327EXO3615fa6i1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:8.

2328EXO3615ret8translate-numbers1thirty cubits

“30 cubits” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

2329EXO3616wwj61General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:9.

2330EXO3617qt9b1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:10.

2331EXO3617jm1ltranslate-numbers1fifty loops

“50 loops” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2332EXO3618mq1j1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:11.

2333EXO3618a7mntranslate-numbers1fifty bronze clasps

“50 bronze clasps” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2334EXO3619p3ke1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:14.

2335EXO3620t7391General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:15.

2336EXO3621prx51General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:16.

2337EXO3621gci3translate-bdistance1ten cubits…one and a half cubits

“10 cubits…1.5 cubits” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

2338EXO3622l8yx1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:17.

2339EXO3622vq4m1two wooden pegs for joining

A wooden peg is a small piece of wood sticking out beyond the end of the board so it can be secured.

2340EXO3623ev651General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:18.

2341EXO3624ln2x1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:19.

2342EXO3624u5uetranslate-numbers1forty silver bases

“40 silver bases” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2343EXO3624yx4btranslate-numbers1twenty frames

“20 frames” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2344EXO3625w2wz1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:20.

2345EXO3626gbm91General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:21.

2346EXO3626b9dy1and so on

There will be two bases under each and every frame.

2347EXO3627a7js1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:22.

2348EXO3627m6ue1on the west

on the side that is on the west

2349EXO3628hw9c1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:23.

2350EXO3628ma1f1for the back corners

for the corners at the rear of the tabernacle

2351EXO3629u3961General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:24.

2352EXO3630mu5n1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:25.

2353EXO3630zls4translate-numbers1sixteen bases in all

“16 bases in all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2354EXO3630r2521and so on

There will be two bases under each and every frame.

2355EXO3631cf2p1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:26.

2356EXO3632p4wd1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:27.

2357EXO3632tc6s1to the west

on the west side

2358EXO3633h94y1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:28.

2359EXO3633lk9f1from end to end

from one side of the tabernacle to the other side

2360EXO3634i17v1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:29.

2361EXO3635pfc51General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:31.

2362EXO3636hg2q1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:32.

2363EXO3637r5ya1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:36.

2364EXO3637vv611He made

Here “he” refers to Bezalel and those working for him. “Bezalel and his men made”

2365EXO3637neu21a hanging

a curtain

2366EXO3638pr671General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:37.

2367EXO37intromt990

Exodus 37 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

The ark of the covenant

The ark, mentioned in previous chapters, is constructed in this chapter. There are other furnishings of the tabernacle that are also produced in this chapter. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/tabernacle]])

2368EXO371byr31General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:10.

2369EXO371xz1ttranslate-names1Bezalel

This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in Exodus 31:2. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2370EXO371ps6etranslate-bdistance1two and a half cubits…one cubit and a half

A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “2.5 cubits…1.5 cubits” or “115 centimeters…69 centimeters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

2371EXO372kb3s1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:11.

2372EXO373pb6v1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:12.

2373EXO373ut8dfigs-metaphor1its four feet

These four pieces of wood that supported the ark are spoken of as if they were human or animal feet. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2374EXO374nr8y1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:13.

2375EXO374n9kr1He made

Though “he” refers to Bezalel, “he” may include all of the workers who assisted him.

2376EXO375v9j71General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:14.

2377EXO376liw81General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:17.

2378EXO376ba8atranslate-bdistance1two and a half cubits…one and a half cubits

A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “2.5 cubits…1.5 cubits” or “115 centimeters…69 centimeters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

2379EXO377nhi31General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:18.

2380EXO378g96y1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:19.

2381EXO378y13sfigs-activepassive1They were made as one piece

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “He made them as one piece” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2382EXO379e6na1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:20.

2383EXO379r7nmfigs-personification1The cherubim spread out their wings upward and overshadowed

Bezalel placed the statues of the cherubim as if they were real cherubim which were spreading their wings and overshadowing the atonement lid. Alternate translation: “They placed the winged creatures so that their wings touched each other and spread out over” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

2384EXO379zsq11The cherubim faced one another and looked toward

“The faces of the cherubim were towards each other, and they looked toward”

2385EXO3710ktf81General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:23.

2386EXO3710fnt3translate-bdistance1two cubits…one cubit…one and a half cubits

A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “2 cubits…1 cubit…1.5 cubits” or “92 centimeters…46 centimeters…69 centimeters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

2387EXO3711l2kv1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:24.

2388EXO3712i1ba1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:25.

2389EXO3712j4iqtranslate-bdistance1handbreadth

This was the width of a mans hand with fingers spread out. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

2390EXO3713b56c1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:26.

2391EXO3713k69zfigs-metaphor1the four feet

These four pieces of wood that supported the ark are spoken of as if they were human or animal feet. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2392EXO3714tc3u1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:27.

2393EXO3714b3mafigs-activepassive1The rings were attached

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Bezalel attached the rings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2394EXO3715zkr81General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:28.

2395EXO3716h5981General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:29.

2396EXO3716ui2rfigs-explicit1dishes, spoons, the bowls, and pitchers to be used to pour out the offerings

It is only the bowls and pitchers that are used to pour out the offerings. Alternate translation: “plates and cups, and also the jars and bowls which the priests will use for pouring out the offerings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2397EXO3717edx61General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:31.

2398EXO3717wp6l1Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to build the tabernacle and furniture.

2399EXO3717s977figs-activepassive1Its cups, its leafy bases, and its flowers were all made of one piece with it

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “He made the cups, its leafy bases, and its flowers as one piece with the lampstand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2400EXO3718kuh21General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:32.

2401EXO3719g1y91General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:33.

2402EXO3719j6vzfigs-activepassive1three cups made like almond blossoms

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he made the 3 cups look like almond blossoms” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2403EXO3719cbe61almond blossoms

An almond blossom is a white or pink flower with five petals that grows on an almond tree.

2404EXO3720nl541General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:34.

2405EXO3720bx63figs-activepassive1there were four cups made like almond blossoms

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “there were 4 cups which Bezalel made to look like almond blossoms” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2406EXO3721x1u51General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:35.

2407EXO3721v3c2figs-activepassive1made as one piece with it

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “which he made as one piece with the lampstand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2408EXO3722ks9z1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:36.

2409EXO3723b2jq1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:37-38.

2410EXO3723r4y11Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to build the tabernacle and furniture.

2411EXO3723njx71tongs

This is a tool made from two sticks of wood or metal connected at one end and used for picking up objects.

2412EXO3724uz5h1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:39.

2413EXO3724arz1translate-bweight1one talent

“33 kilograms” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

2414EXO3725el8w1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 30:1-2.

2415EXO3725li9d1Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to build the tabernacle and furniture.

2416EXO3725c8mgtranslate-bdistance1cubit

A cubit is 46 centimeters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

2417EXO3725xq8kfigs-activepassive1Its horns were made as one piece with it

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “He made the horns as one piece with the altar” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2418EXO3726ep661General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 30:3.

2419EXO3727zez21General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 30:4.

2420EXO3727d2v91Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to build the tabernacle and furniture.

2421EXO3727p89dfigs-activepassive1to be attached to it

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “which they attached to the altar” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2422EXO3728hw371General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 30:5.

2423EXO3729c9921General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 30:25.

2424EXO3729z6851fragrant incense

See how you translated this in Exodus 25:6.

2425EXO3729akg91the work of a perfumer

A perfumer is skilled in mixing spices and oils.

2426EXO38introhp860

Exodus 38 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

The altar

The altar is constructed in this chapter. There are other furnishings of the tabernacle that are also produced in this chapter. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/tabernacle]])

Materials

The list of materials being used is intended to give the reader an understanding of the scale of the tabernacle. It should fill the reader with awe concerning the power of Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2427EXO381r81c1General Information

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 27:1.

2428EXO381gk191Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to build the tabernacle and furniture.

2429EXO381g5extranslate-bdistance1cubits

One cubit is 46 centimeters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

2430EXO382g71x1General Information

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 27:2.

2431EXO382se9lfigs-activepassive1The horns were made of one piece

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “He made the horns as one piece” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2432EXO383v73t1General Information

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 27:3.

2433EXO384rx7v1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 27:4 and Exodus 27:5.

2434EXO384nb1q1Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to build the tabernacle and furniture.

2435EXO384g5rbfigs-activepassive1to be placed under the ledge

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “which they placed under the ledge” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2436EXO385kp6w1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 27:4.

2437EXO386l2581General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 27:6.

2438EXO386ihi91Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to build the tabernacle and furniture.

2439EXO387ys631General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 27:7-8.

2440EXO387wa8g1planks

a long, flat piece of wood that is thicker than a board

2441EXO388tqi91Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to build the tabernacle and furniture.

2442EXO388e6gd1large bronze basin with a bronze stand

The stand supported the bronze basin. See how you translated this in Exodus 30:18.

2443EXO388mdx9figs-explicit1He made the basin out of mirrors

The bronze came from the mirrors. This can be stated clearly in the translation. Alternate translation: “The bronze for the basin came from the mirrors” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2444EXO388e1wq1mirrors

A mirror is a piece of polished metal or glass that reflects an image.

2445EXO389clk61General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 27:9.

2446EXO389j2nq1Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to build the tabernacle and furniture.

2447EXO389i24atranslate-numbers1one hundred

“100” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2448EXO389su7etranslate-bdistance1cubits

A cubit is 46 centimeters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

2449EXO3810nz6q1General Information

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 27:10.

2450EXO3810x9jntranslate-numbers1twenty

“20” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2451EXO3811mp6n1General Information

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 27:11.

2452EXO3811kl3htranslate-numbers1one hundred…twenty

“100…20” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2453EXO3811xl4ctranslate-bdistance1cubits

A cubit is 46 centimeters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

2454EXO3812g5iz1General Information

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 27:12.

2455EXO3812vuw5translate-numbers1fifty…ten

“50…10” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2456EXO3813iju31General Information

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 27:13.

2457EXO3813fw1ktranslate-numbers1fifty

“50” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2458EXO3813jl57translate-bdistance1cubits

A cubit is 46 centimeters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

2459EXO3814n1xj1General Information

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 27:14.

2460EXO3814b85etranslate-numbers1fifteen…three

“15…3” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2461EXO3815dlq71General Information

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 27:15.

2462EXO3816s5zffigs-activepassive1All the hangings around the courtyard were made of fine linen

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Bezalel and the workers made all the hangings around the courtyard with fine linen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2463EXO3817s5g51General Information

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 27:17.

2464EXO3817r7g6figs-activepassive1The bases for the posts were made of bronze

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Bezalel and the workers made the bases for the posts out of bronze” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2465EXO3817va1mfigs-activepassive1The hooks and rods for the posts were made of silver, and the covering for the tops of the posts was also made of silver

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “They made the hooks, the rods for the posts, and the covering for the tops of the posts out of silver” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2466EXO3817i3bffigs-activepassive1All the courtyard posts were covered with silver

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “They covered the courtyard posts with silver” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2467EXO3818hmi51General Information

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 27:16.

2468EXO3818h4kitranslate-numbers1twenty…five

“20…5” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2469EXO3818yf6ztranslate-bdistance1cubits

A cubit is 46 centimeters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

2470EXO3818trz5figs-activepassive1The curtain was made of

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “They made the curtain out of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2471EXO3819fjw41General Information

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 27:17.

2472EXO3819kqf3translate-numbers1four

“4” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2473EXO3819a2ixfigs-activepassive1The covering for their tops and its rods were made of silver

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “They made the covering for the tops of the posts and their rods out of silver” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2474EXO3820ye5c1General Information

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 27:19.

2475EXO3820p55dfigs-activepassive1All the tent pegs for the tabernacle and courtyard were made of bronze

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “They made all of the tent pegs for the tabernacle and courtyard out of bronze” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2476EXO3821wqi51Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to build the tabernacle and furniture.

2477EXO3821k2exfigs-activepassive1as it was taken

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “which Moses instructed the Levites to write down” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2478EXO3821ex1ttranslate-names1Ithamar

This is the name of a man. See how you translated this name in Exodus 6:23. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2479EXO3822d86gtranslate-names1Bezalel son of Uri son of Hur

“Bezalel” and “uri” are the name of men. See how you translated this in Exodus 31:2. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2480EXO3822i4ha1Yahweh had commanded Moses

“everything that Yahweh told Moses to do”

2481EXO3823f93btranslate-names1Oholiab son of Ahisamak

“Oholiab” and “Ahisamak” are names of men. See how you translated this in Exodus 31:6. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2482EXO3823wvw41an engraver, as a skillful workman, and as an embroiderer

“as a skilled engraver and embroiderer”

2483EXO3824tl4kfigs-activepassive1All the gold that was used for the project

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “All the gold that the people used for the project” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2484EXO3824y7hytranslate-numbers1twenty-nine talents

A talent is about 33 kilograms. Alternate translation: “29 talents” or “about 960 kilograms” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

2485EXO3824tg3ftranslate-numbers1730 shekels

A shekel is 11 grams. Alternate translation: “seven hundred and thirty shekels” or “about 8 kilograms.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

2486EXO3824f6sqtranslate-bweight1measured by the standard of the sanctuary shekel

There were evidently shekels of more than one weight at the time. This specified which one was to be used. See how you translated this in Exodus 30:13. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

2487EXO3825ni5btranslate-numbers1one hundred talents

A talent is about 33 kilograms. Alternate translation: “100 talents” or “about 330 kilograms” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

2488EXO3825gn9ftranslate-numbers11,775 shekels

A shekel is 11 grams. “one thousand seven hundred and seventy-five shekels” or “about 20 kilograms” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

2489EXO3825egg4figs-activepassive1The silver given by the community

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The silver which the community gave” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2490EXO3826t2gitranslate-bweight1one beka

A beka is 1/2 a shekel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

2491EXO3826fyy5translate-bweight1half a shekel

A shekel is 11 grams. Alternate translation: “1/2 a shekel” or “five and a half grams” or “5 1/2 grams” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

2492EXO3826ll8b1This figure was reached on the basis of every person who was counted in the census

Every man who was 20 years old or older was included in the census and was required to give half a shekel.

2493EXO3826c69ctranslate-numbers1twenty years old

“20 years old” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2494EXO3827p7r5translate-bweight1One hundred talents of silver were cast

A talent is about 33 kilograms. Alternate translation: “The workers cast 100 talents of silver” or “The workers cast 3,300 kilograms of silver” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2495EXO3827n8z7translate-numbers1One hundred talents

“100 talents” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2496EXO3828k2fitranslate-numbers11,775 shekels

“one thousand seven hundred and seventy-five shekels” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2497EXO3828ii3ytranslate-bmoney1shekels

A shekel is a unit of weight equal to about 11 grams. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]])

2498EXO3828nxf5translate-names1Bezalel

This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in Exodus 31:2. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2499EXO3829p3mrtranslate-numbers1seventy talents and 2,400 shekels

“70 talents and two thousand four hundred shekels.” This would be about 2,300 kilograms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

2500EXO3830zfk81General Information:

Bezalels work crew continues to build the tabernacle and furniture.

2501EXO3830rck71grate

This is a frame of crossed bars for holding wood when burning. See how you translated this in Exodus 27:4.

2502EXO3831bvr91tent pegs

These are sharp bronze stakes that were used to secure the corners of a tent to the ground. See how you translated this in Exodus 27:19.

2503EXO39intromll60

Exodus 39 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

The holy clothing

The special, holy clothing mentioned in previous chapters is produced in this chapter to the correct specifications. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])

2504EXO391s66r1General Information:

Bezalels work crew shifts to making the priestly garments.

2505EXO391ys6l1they made

The word “they” refers to Bezalel, Oholiab, and the other workmen.

2506EXO391h8kg1as Yahweh had commanded Moses

“just as Yahweh told Moses to do”

2507EXO392b9mg1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:6.

2508EXO392ain41Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to make the priestly garments.

2509EXO392p5xytranslate-names1Bezalel

This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in Exodus 31:2. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2510EXO394c7lu1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:7.

2511EXO394pq621Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to make the priestly garments.

2512EXO395g75w1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:8.

2513EXO395wf2ifigs-activepassive1it was made of one piece with the ephod, made of fine twined linen

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they made it as one piece with the ephod with fine twisted linen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2514EXO395cc561as Yahweh had commanded Moses

“just as Yahweh told Moses to do.” See how you translated this phrase in Exodus 39:1.

2515EXO396k7vw1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:9 and Exodus 28:11.

2516EXO396h1bz1Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to make the priestly garments.

2517EXO396naa81signet

This was an engraved stone that was used to stamp a design in a wax seal. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:11.

2518EXO396ajh3translate-numbers1twelve sons

“12 sons” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2519EXO397ize61General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:12.

2520EXO397d24m1as Yahweh had commanded Moses

“just as Yahweh told Moses to do.” See how you translated this phrase in Exodus 39:1.

2521EXO398mlf61General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:15.

2522EXO398gj9p1Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to make the priestly garments.

2523EXO398k7b61He made

“Bezalel made” or “Bezalel and the workers made”

2524EXO399lkt11General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:16.

2525EXO399f4mstranslate-bdistance1span

A span is 23 centimeters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

2526EXO3910xzb81General Information:

Bezalels work crew continues to make the priestly garments.

2527EXO3910m54c1They set in it

“The workers set in the breastpiece”

2528EXO3910cmv1translate-unknown1ruby, a topaz, and a garnet

Some languages may not have words for each of these stones. The important fact is that they were valuable and different from one another. See how you translated these in Exodus 28:17. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

2529EXO3911qx96translate-unknown1an emerald, a sapphire, and a diamond

Some languages may not have words for each of these stones. The important fact is that they were valuable and different from one another. See how you translated these in Exodus 28:18. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

2530EXO3912kk8ttranslate-unknown1a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst

Some languages may not have words for each of these stones. The important fact is that they were valuable and different from one another. See how you translated these in Exodus 28:19. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

2531EXO3913l9watranslate-unknown1a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper

Some languages may not have words for each of these stones. The important fact is that they were valuable and different from one another. See how you translated these in Exodus 28:20. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

2532EXO3913h3bwfigs-activepassive1The stones were mounted in gold settings

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “They mounted the stones in gold settings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2533EXO3914z5va1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:21.

2534EXO3914a9bw1Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to make the priestly garments.

2535EXO3914yby8figs-activepassive1The stones were arranged

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The workers arranged the stones” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2536EXO3915byz81General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:22.

2537EXO3916b8m61General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:23-24.

2538EXO3917w2s41General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:24.

2539EXO3917v4i51Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to make the priestly garments.

2540EXO3917lc2x1two braided chains

“chains that are made of pure gold and are braided like cords.” See how you translated this in Exodus 28:14.

2541EXO3918bw761General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:25.

2542EXO3919nd411General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:26.

2543EXO3919del51Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to make the priestly garments.

2544EXO3920w8wz1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:27.

2545EXO3920l1dz1finely-woven waistband

This was a cloth belt made from narrow linen threads that someone twisted together to make a stronger thread. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:8.

2546EXO3921zu911General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:28.

2547EXO3921uq611Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to make the priestly garments.

2548EXO3921h1ybfigs-activepassive1so that it might be attached

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “so they could attach it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2549EXO3921scn8figs-doublenegatives1the breastpiece might not become unattached from the ephod

The double negative can be translated as a positive. Alternate translation: “the breastpiece would stay attached to the ephod” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

2550EXO3922vdw11General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:31-32.

2551EXO3922n25q1Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to make the priestly garments.

2552EXO3922p8nvtranslate-names1Bezalel

This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in Exodus 31:2. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2553EXO3923cyc11General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:32.

2554EXO3924eak61General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:33.

2555EXO3925sx9b1General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:34-35.

2556EXO3925f8t31Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to make the priestly garments as commanded in Exodus 28:34-35.

2557EXO3925x1ww1bells of pure gold

These were tiny bells.

2558EXO3926gtg51General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:34-35.

2559EXO3927pz631General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:39.

2560EXO3927rp6p1Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to make the priestly garments.

2561EXO3928um4e1turban

This is a head covering worn by men made of a long strip of cloth wound around the head. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:4.

2562EXO3928jex81headbands

A headband is a narrow, decorative strip of cloth that is worn around the head above the eyes. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:40.

2563EXO3928c4prfigs-explicit1undergarments

This is clothing worn under the outer clothes, next to the skin. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:42. Alternate translation: “underwear” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2564EXO3929hn5g1sash

This is a long piece of cloth worn over the shoulder or around the waist. See how you translated this word in Exodus 28:4

2565EXO3930kq331General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:36.

2566EXO3930m6jj1Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to make the priestly garments..

2567EXO3930d85k1holy crown

This was an engraved crown made of pure gold. See how you translated this in Exodus 29:6.

2568EXO3931fml21General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:37.

2569EXO3932jh641General Information:

The Israelites finish making the things Yahweh commanded in Exodus 35:4-9 and Exodus 35:10-12.

2570EXO3932z1z7figs-doublet1So the work on the tabernacle, the tent of meeting, was finished. The people of Israel did everything

The “tabernacle” and “tent of meeting” are the same thing. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “So the people of Israel finished all of the work on the tabernacle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2571EXO3933y9ym1clasps

The clasps fit into the loops to hold the curtains together. See how you translated these in Exodus 26:6.

2572EXO3933b3q31bases

These are heavy objects that rest on the ground and keep the object attached to them from moving. See how you translated this in Exodus 25:31.

2573EXO3934z6r61the covering of ram skins dyed red, the covering of fine leather

See how you translated similar phrases in this in Exodus 25:5.

2574EXO3935i7d91atonement lid

This is the lid that sits on top of the ark where the atonement offering was made. See how you translated this in Exodus 25:17.

2575EXO3936lvq31Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to present all that they made to Moses.

2576EXO3936knn81bread of the presence

This bread represented the presence of God. See how you translated this in Exodus 25:30.

2577EXO3939e7551grate

This is a frame of crossed bars that held wood while burning. See how you translated this in Exodus 27:4.

2578EXO3940i8lm1Connecting Statement:

Bezalels work crew continues to present all that they made to Moses.

2579EXO3940m3x91They brought

“The people of Israel brought”

2580EXO3940ajt41the tabernacle, the tent of meeting

These refer to the same place.

2581EXO3942ct6k1Thus the people

“And so the people”

2582EXO3943t26m1behold

The word “behold” here draws attention to the information that follows.

2583EXO3943z79s1As Yahweh had commanded, in that way they did it

“They did it in the way that Yahweh had commanded them”

2584EXO40introfa6e0

Exodus 40 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is repetitive and should read as a series of instructions. It is repeated as well to show that Moses was obedient to every detail of Yahwehs command.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“Yahwehs glory filled the tabernacle”

This phrase indicates that Yahweh began to dwell within the tabernacle, among Israel, in a special way. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/glory]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/tabernacle]])

2585EXO402crr5translate-hebrewmonths1the first day of the first month of the new year

The new year marks the time when God rescued his people from Egypt. This happens around the middle of March on Western calendars. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

2586EXO403iv521General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

2587EXO403l7fp1place the ark of the testimony in it

“place the ark of the covenant decrees in the sacred chest”

2588EXO403psu31shield the ark with the curtain

“put the ark behind the curtain”

2589EXO405n4wx1General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

2590EXO405a4xe1ark of the testimony

This refers to the “sacred chest.”

2591EXO408zfl61General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Moses what the people must do.

2592EXO409ce7i1all its furnishings

“all the things that are a part of it”

2593EXO4012yiq81General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

2594EXO4012j7ea1You are to bring

Moses will do these things himself.

2595EXO4013bs4jfigs-activepassive1that are set apart to me

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that you have set apart to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2596EXO4014w7yw1General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

2597EXO4015js171throughout their peoples generations

“through all the generations of their descendants.” See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 12:14.

2598EXO4017r6pcfigs-activepassive1So the tabernacle was set up

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “So the people set up the tabernacle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2599EXO4017gzu5translate-hebrewmonths1the first day of the first month

This refers to exactly one year after God rescued his people from Egypt. This happens around the middle of March on Western calendars. See how you translated this in Exodus 40:2. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

2600EXO4017wnh8translate-ordinal1in the second year

This is the second year after Yahweh brought his people out of Egypt. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

2601EXO4018kk4nfigs-explicit1Moses set up

Moses was the leader. The people helped him set up the tabernacle. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2602EXO4018c6rm1posts

a strong piece of wood set upright and used as a support

2603EXO4021l31p1He brought

Moses was the leader. He had workers helping him.

2604EXO4021n8r91for it to shield

“in front of”

2605EXO4024sw1wfigs-explicit1He put the lampstand into the tent of meeting

Moses instructed his workers to move the lampstand. This can be stated clearly in the translation. Alternate translation: “Moses workmen set the lampstand inside the sacred tent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2606EXO4026i5ggfigs-explicit1in front of the curtain

This curtain separated the holy place from the very holy place. This can be stated clearly in the translation. Alternate translation: “in front of the curtain that separated the holy place from the very holy place” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2607EXO4031bf9cfigs-explicit1washed their hands and their feet from the basin

They washed with water from the basin. This can be stated clearly in the translation. Alternate translation: “washed their hands and their feet with water from the basin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2608EXO4033y62kוַ⁠יְצַ֣ו1In this way

“And so”

2609EXO4034ysd8כָּל־הַ⁠בֵּ֣ן הַ⁠יִּלּ֗וֹד הַ⁠יְאֹ֨רָ⁠ה֙ תַּשְׁלִיכֻ֔⁠הוּ1Yahwehs glory filled

“Yahwehs awesome presence filled”

2610EXO4036ak35figs-activepassiveלֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר כָּל־הַ⁠בֵּ֣ן הַ⁠יִּלּ֗וֹד הַ⁠יְאֹ֨רָ⁠ה֙ תַּשְׁלִיכֻ֔⁠הוּ וְ⁠כָל־הַ⁠בַּ֖ת תְּחַיּֽוּ⁠ן1was taken up from over
  • saying, “You shall throw every new-born son into the river, but every daughter you shall let live.” - A single level direct quote. While this particular instruction is very easy to rephrase as an indirect quote (in English), the use of saying in Hebrew suggests that this should be translated as a direct quotation if possible. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
2611EXO4037s8y2figs-activepassiveתַּשְׁלִיכֻ֔⁠הוּ תְּחַיּֽוּ⁠ן1that it was lifted up
  • you shall - These are plural referring to all Pharaohs people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])