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Introduction to Galatians

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the Book of Galatians

  1. Paul declares his authority as an apostle of Jesus Christ; he says that he is surprised by the false teachings that the Christians in Galatia have accepted from other people (1:1-10).
  2. Paul says that people are saved by trusting in Christ alone, not by keeping the law (1:11-2:21).
  3. God puts people right with himself only when they trust in Christ; the example of Abraham; the curse which the law brings (and not a means of salvation); slavery and freedom compared and illustrated by Hagar and Sarah (3:1-4:31).
  4. When people are joined to Christ, they become free from having to keep the law of Moses. They are also free to live as the Holy Spirit guides them. They are free to refuse the demands of sin. They are free to bear each others burdens (5:1-6:10).
  5. Paul warns the Christians not to trust in being circumcised and in keeping the law of Moses. Instead, they must trust in Christ (6:11-18).

Who wrote the Book of Galatians?

Paul from the city of Tarsus was the author. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he began to trust in Jesus Christ, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.

It is uncertain when Paul wrote this letter and where he was when he wrote it. Some scholars think Paul was in the city of Ephesus and wrote this letter after the second time he traveled to tell people about Jesus. Other scholars think Paul was in the city of Antioch in Syria and wrote the letter soon after the first time he traveled.

What is the Book of Galatians about?

Paul wrote this letter to both Jewish and non-Jewish Christians in the region of Galatia. He wanted to write against the false teachers who said that Christians need to follow the law of Moses. Paul defended the gospel by explaining that a person is saved by believing in Jesus Christ. People are saved as result of God being kind and not as a result of people doing good works. No person can perfectly obey the law. Any attempt to please God by obeying the law of Moses will only result in God condemning them. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/goodnews]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/works]])

How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “Galatians.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “Pauls Letter to the Church in Galatia.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

What does it mean to “live like Jews” (2:14)?

To “live like Jews” means to obey the law of Moses, even though one trusts in Christ. The people among the early Christians who taught that this was necessary were called “Judaizers.”

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

How did Paul use the terms “law” and “grace” in the Book of Galatians?

These terms are used in a unique way in Galatians. There is an important teaching in Galatians about Christian living. Under the law of Moses, righteous or holy living required a person to obey a set of rules and regulations. As Christians, holy living is now motivated by grace. This means that Christians have freedom in Christ and are not required to obey a specific set of rules. Instead, Christians are to live a holy life because they are thankful that God has been so kind to them. This is called “the law of Christ.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])

What did Paul mean by the expression “in Christ,” “in the Lord,” etc.?

This kind of expression occurs in 1:22; 2:4, 17; 3:14, 26, 28; 5:6, 10. Paul meant to express the idea of a very close union with Christ and the believers. At the same time, he often intended other meanings as well. See, for example, “when we seek for God to justify us in Christ” (2:17), where Paul spoke of being justified by means of Christ.

Please see the introduction to the Book of Romans for more details about this kind of expression.

What are the major issues in the text of the Book of Galatians?

  • “Foolish Galatians, whose evil eye has harmed you? Was not Jesus Christ depicted as crucified before your eyes” (3:1)? The ULT, UST, and the other modern versions have this reading. However, older versions of the Bible add, “[so] that ye should not obey the truth.” Translators are advised not to include this expression. However, if in the translators region there are older Bible versions that have the passage, the translators can include it. If it is translated, it should be put inside square brackets ([]) to indicate that it is probably not original to Galatians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]]) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
3GAL1introf3n50

Galatians 1 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Paul started this letter differently than his other letters. He adds that he was “not an apostle from men nor by human agency, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead ones.” Paul probably included these words because false teachers were opposing him and trying to undermine his authority.

Special concepts in this chapter

Heresy

God eternally saves people only through the true, biblical gospel. God condemns any other version of the gospel. Paul asks God to curse those who teach a false gospel. They might not be saved. They should be treated as non-Christians. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/eternity]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/goodnews]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/condemn]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/curse]])

Pauls qualifications

Some people in the early church were teaching that Gentiles needed to obey the law of Moses. To refute this teaching, in verses 13-16 Paul explains how he was formerly a zealous Jew. But God still needed to save him and show him the true gospel. As a Jew, and the apostle to Gentile people, Paul was uniquely qualified to address this issue. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“You are turning so quickly to a different gospel”

The Book of Galatians is one of Pauls earliest letters in Scripture. It shows that heresies troubled even the early church. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4GAL11m4ssfigs-you0General Information:

Paul, an apostle, writes this letter to the churches in the area of Galatia. Unless noted otherwise, all instances of “you” and “your” in this letter refer to the Galatians and are plural. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

5GAL11d1kdτοῦ ἐγείραντος αὐτὸν1who raised him

Alternate translation: “who caused him to live again”

6GAL12d737figs-gendernotationsἀδελφοί1brothers

Here, brothers means fellow Christians, including both men and women, since all believers in Christ are members of one spiritual family, with God as their heavenly Father. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

7GAL14yk9gfigs-metonymyπερὶ τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν ἡμῶν1for our sins
8GAL14f6d5figs-metonymyἐκ τοῦ αἰῶνος τοῦ ἐνεστῶτος πονηροῦ1that he might deliver us from this present evil age
9GAL16f74pθαυμάζω1I am amazed

Alternate translation: “I am surprised” or “I am shocked.” Paul was very saddened that the people in Galatia were not living a life that showed they were trusting in the Messiah.

10GAL16v438figs-metaphorοὕτως ταχέως, μετατίθεσθε ἀπὸ τοῦ καλέσαντος1you are turning away so quickly from him
11GAL17gy1iοἱ ταράσσοντες1some men
12GAL18s5uqπαρ’ ὃ εὐηγγελισάμεθα1other than the one

Alternate translation: “different from the gospel” or “different from the message”

13GAL18xb2cἀνάθεμα ἔστω1let him be cursed

If your language has a common way of calling a curse down on someone, you should use that.

14GAL110b2vcfigs-rquestionἄρτι γὰρ ἀνθρώπους πείθω ἢ τὸν Θεόν? ἢ ζητῶ ἀνθρώποις ἀρέσκειν1For am I now seeking the approval of men or God? Am I seeking to please men?

These rhetorical questions expect the answer “no.” Alternate translation: “I do not seek the approval of men, but instead I seek the approval of God. I am not seeking to please men.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

15GAL110fl3cεἰ ἔτι ἀνθρώποις ἤρεσκον, Χριστοῦ δοῦλος οὐκ ἂν ἤμην1If I am still trying to please men, I am not a servant of Christ

This phrase contrary to fact. Alternate translation: “I am not still trying to please men; I am a servant of Christ”

16GAL111hew1ὅτι οὐκ ἔστιν κατὰ ἄνθρωπον1
17GAL112wed1δι’ ἀποκαλύψεως Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1it was by revelation of Jesus Christ to me
18GAL113f3glἀναστροφήν ποτε1former life

Alternate translation: “my behavior at one time,” or “my prior life,” or “my earlier life,”

19GAL115wd26καλέσας διὰ τῆς χάριτος αὐτοῦ1who called me through his grace

This could mean: (1) “God called me to serve him because he is gracious” (2) “he called me by means of his grace.”

20GAL116l97hἀποκαλύψαι τὸν Υἱὸν αὐτοῦ ἐν ἐμοὶ1to reveal his Son in me
21GAL116l5bbguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτὸν Υἱὸν1Son

This is an important title for Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

22GAL116xx4cεὐαγγελίζωμαι αὐτὸν1preach him

Alternate translation: “proclaim that Jesus is Gods Son” or “preach the good news about Gods Son”

23GAL116qme5figs-idiomπροσανεθέμην σαρκὶ καὶ αἵματι1consult with flesh and blood

Here, Consult with flesh and blood is an idiom that means talking with other people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

24GAL117qh88ἀνῆλθον εἰς Ἱεροσόλυμα1go up to Jerusalem

Jerusalem was in a region of high hills, making it necessary to climb many hills in order to get there, and so it was common to describe travel to Jerusalem as “to go up to Jerusalem

25GAL117zqihἀπῆλθον εἰς Ἀραβίαν1

The region of Arabia was located south of Damascus and Jerusalem.

26GAL119av43figs-doublenegativesἕτερον δὲ τῶν ἀποστόλων οὐκ εἶδον, εἰ μὴ Ἰάκωβον1I saw none of the other apostles except James

This double negative emphasizes that James was the only other apostle besides Peter whom Paul saw. Alternate translation: “the only other apostle I saw was James” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

27GAL120h3cbfigs-litotesἃ δὲ γράφω ὑμῖν, ἰδοὺ, ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ ὅτι οὐ ψεύδομαι1In what I write to you, I assure you before God, that I am not lying

Paul uses litotes to emphasize that he is telling the truth. Alternate translation: “I am not lying to you in the messages I write to you” or “in the things I write to you, I am telling you the truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

28GAL122y6l4ἤμην δὲ ἀγνοούμενος τῷ προσώπῳ ταῖς ἐκκλησίαις τῆς Ἰουδαίας, ταῖς ἐν Χριστῷ1I was still not personally known to the churches of Judea that are in Christ

Alternate translation: “None of the people in the churches of Judea that are in Christ had ever met me”

29GAL2introxe280

Galatians 2 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Paul continues to defend the true gospel. This began in Galatians 1:11.

Special concepts in this chapter

Freedom and slavery

Throughout this letter, Paul contrasts freedom and slavery. The Christian is free in Christ to do many different things. But the Christian who attempts to follow the law of Moses needs to follow the whole law. Paul describes trying to follow the law as a type of slavery. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“I do not negate the grace of God”

Paul teaches that, if a Christian attempts to follow the law of Moses, they do not understand the grace God has shown to them. This is a fundamental error. But Paul uses the words “I do not negate the grace of God” as a type of hypothetical situation. The purpose of this statement could be seen as, “If you could be saved by following the law, then it would negate the grace of God.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/grace]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])

30GAL21zt610Connecting Statement:

Paul continues to give the history of how he learned the gospel from God, not the apostles.

31GAL21zth5ἀνέβην1went up

Here, went up is used because Jerusalem is located in hilly country. The Jews also viewed Jerusalem as the place on earth that is closest to heaven, so Paul may have been speaking figuratively, or it may be that it was reflecting the difficult, uphill, journey to get to Jerusalem.

32GAL22msv4τοῖς δοκοῦσιν1those who seemed to be important
33GAL22ejb8figs-doublenegativesτρέχω ἢ ἔδραμον1I was not running—or had not run—in vain
34GAL22t6weμή πως εἰς κενὸν1in vain

Paul feared that if he did not explain the gospel privately to the leaders, they could misunderstand the gospel, or others would misrepresent him. The double negative can be represented positively: “I was doing profitable work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) Alternate translation: “for no benefit” or “for nothing”

35GAL23xs8kfigs-activepassiveπεριτμηθῆναι1to be circumcised

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “to have someone circumcise him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

36GAL24j5kaτοὺς παρεισάκτους ψευδαδέλφους1The false brothers came in secretly

Alternate translation: “People who pretended to be Christians came into the church,” or “People who said they were Christians but were not came into our group”

37GAL24mzx0διὰ δὲ 1

But is was because of could be: (1) connected to v. 1, which gives the reason for why Paul explained the gospel privately to the leaders in Jerusalem (2) connected to v. 3, which explains why people wanted to circumcise Titus (3) unconnected and begins an unfinished sentence.

38GAL24l7n7figs-explicitἵνα ἡμᾶς καταδουλώσουσιν1to make us slaves
39GAL25bba7εἴξαμεν τῇ ὑποταγῇ1yield in submission
40GAL26afy6figs-metonymyἐμοὶ…οὐδὲν προσανέθεντο1added nothing to me

Here, me represents what Paul was teaching. Alternate translation: “added nothing to what I teach” or “did not add anything to my message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

41GAL29he6qfigs-metaphorδοκοῦντες στῦλοι εἶναι1built up the church
42GAL29ie72figs-abstractnounsγνόντες τὴν χάριν τὴν δοθεῖσάν μοι1understood the grace that had been given to me
43GAL29e5rmtranslate-symactionδεξιὰς ἔδωκαν…κοινωνίας1gave…the right hand of fellowship
44GAL210kqq6figs-explicitτῶν πτωχῶν…μνημονεύωμεν1remember the poor

You may need to make explicit how they were to remember the poor. Alternate translation: “remember to take care of the needs of the poor” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

45GAL211c9h4figs-metonymyκατὰ πρόσωπον αὐτῷ ἀντέστην1I opposed him to his face
46GAL212z1kgfigs-explicitφοβούμενος τοὺς ἐκ περιτομῆς1He was afraid of those who were demanding circumcision

The reason Peter was afraid can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “He was afraid that these men who required circumcision would judge that he was doing something wrong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

47GAL212fy79τοὺς ἐκ περιτομῆς1those who were demanding circumcision

Here, those from the circumcision represents Jews who had become Christians, but who demanded that those who believe in Christ live according to Jewish customs like circumcision.

48GAL212a6gvἀφώριζεν ἑαυτόν1kept away from

Alternate translation: “stayed away from” or “avoided”

49GAL214sg53οὐκ ὀρθοποδοῦσιν πρὸς τὴν ἀλήθειαν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου1not following the truth of the gospel

Alternate translation: “they were not living like people who believe the true gospel” or “they were not obeying the true gospel”

50GAL214z4fpfigs-rquestionπῶς τὰ ἔθνη ἀναγκάζεις Ἰουδαΐζειν1how can you force the Gentiles to live like Jews?

This rhetorical question is a rebuke and can be translated as a statement. The word you is singular and refers to Peter. Alternate translation: “you are wrong to force the Gentiles to live like Jews” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

51GAL215tz45οὐκ ἐξ ἐθνῶν ἁμαρτωλοί1not Gentile sinners
52GAL216j6l1figs-exclusiveεἰδότες1we

The word knowing could refer to: (1) Paul and others, but not the Galatians (exclusive), who were primarily Gentiles (2) Paul and includes the Galatians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

53GAL216j7g5figs-synecdocheοὐ…σάρξ1no flesh

The word flesh is a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: “no person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

54GAL217vnp6ζητοῦντες δικαιωθῆναι ἐν Χριστῷ1while we seek to be justified in Christ

The phrase to be justified in Christ means justified because we are united with Christ and justified by means of what Christ has done.

55GAL217sge2εὑρέθημεν καὶ αὐτοὶ ἁμαρτωλοί1we too, were found to be sinners

The phrase were also found to be sinner could mean: (1) they admit they are sinners (2) they are no longer following the law (3) others view them as sinners for not following the law or eating with non-Jews.

56GAL217yy9sfigs-rquestionμὴ γένοιτο1Absolutely not!
57GAL218r52xπαραβάτην ἐμαυτὸν συνιστάνω1

I prove myself to be a transgressor could mean: (1) Paul sinned by trying to obey the law again (2) Paul sinned by leaving the law for a time when he believed in the Messiah (3) the law proves Paul is a sinner when he tries to follow it.

58GAL218p6hefigs-metaphorεἰ γὰρ ἃ κατέλυσα, ταῦτα πάλιν οἰκοδομῶ1
59GAL219xe23διὰ νόμου1
60GAL219r55dfigs-rquestionἐγὼ...νόμῳ ἀπέθανον1
61GAL219xg5qfigs-rquestionΧριστῷ συνεσταύρωμαι;1

I have been crucified with Christ could mean (1) by the Messiah's death, Paul was now separated from the law (2) Paul died spiritually and escaped the dominion of sin and the law.

62GAL220bb2xguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΥἱοῦ τοῦ Θεοῦ1Son of God

This is an important title for Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

63GAL221tj6lfigs-litotesοὐκ ἀθετῶ1I do not set aside
64GAL221yl3cfigs-hypoεἰ…διὰ νόμου δικαιοσύνη, ἄρα Χριστὸς δωρεὰν ἀπέθανεν1if righteousness could be gained through the law, then Christ died for nothing

Paul is describing a situation that never existed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])

65GAL221k6bgεἰ…διὰ νόμου δικαιοσύνη1if righteousness could be gained through the law
66GAL221rku5ἄρα Χριστὸς δωρεὰν ἀπέθανεν1then Christ died for nothing
67GAL3introxd920

Galatians 3 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Equality in Christ

All Christians are equally united to Christ. Ancestry, gender, and status do not matter. All are equal with each other. All are equal in the eyes of God.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Rhetorical Questions

Paul uses many different rhetorical questions in this chapter. He uses them to convince the Galatians of their sin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Flesh

This is a complex issue. “Flesh” is possibly a metaphor for our sinful nature. Paul is not teaching that the physical part of man is sinful. “Flesh” is used in this chapter to contrast with that which is spiritual. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/flesh]])

“Those of faith are children of Abraham”

Scholars are divided on what this means. Some believe Christians inherit the promises that God gave to Abraham, so Christians replace the physical descendants of Israel. Others believe Christians spiritually follow Abraham, but they do not inherit the promises that God gave to Abraham. In light of Pauls other teachings and the context here, Paul is probably writing about the Jewish and Gentile Christians sharing the same faith as Abraham did. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/spirit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

68GAL31p7uw0General Information:

Paul is rebuking the Galatians by asking rhetorical questions.

69GAL31ryu7figs-ironyτίς ὑμᾶς ἐβάσκανεν1Who has put a spell on you?

Paul is using irony and a rhetorical question to say that the Galatians are acting as though someone has put a spell on them. He does not really believe that someone has put a spell on them. Alternate translation: “You behave as if someone has put a spell on you!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

70GAL314vjiἀνόητοι1
71GAL31dc2jὑμᾶς ἐβάσκανεν1put a spell on you

Alternate translation: “done magic on you” or “done witchcraft on you”

72GAL31gwv2figs-metaphorοἷς κατ’ ὀφθαλμοὺς Ἰησοῦς Χριστὸς προεγράφη ἐσταυρωμένος1It was before your eyes that Jesus Christ was publicly displayed as crucified

This metaphor describes how the Galatian believers heard the gospel message preached so clearly that it was if Jesus was crucified before their own eyes. Alternate translation: “You yourselves heard the clear teaching about Jesus being crucified” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

73GAL32m1zdfigs-ironyτοῦτο μόνον θέλω μαθεῖν ἀφ’ ὑμῶν1This is the only thing I want to learn from you

This continues the irony from verse 1. Paul knows the answers to the rhetorical questions he is about to ask. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])

74GAL32wq9gfigs-rquestionἐξ ἔργων νόμου τὸ Πνεῦμα ἐλάβετε, ἢ ἐξ ἀκοῆς πίστεως1Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law or by believing what you heard?

Alternate translation: “You received the Spirit, not by doing what the law says, but by believing what you heard.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

75GAL33f96ufigs-rquestionοὕτως ἀνόητοί ἐστε1Are you so foolish?
76GAL33xu4dfigs-metonymyσαρκὶ1by the flesh

The word flesh is a metonym and refers to an independent reliance on one's own effort through outward deeds . Alternate translation: “by your own effort” or “by your own work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

77GAL34iyj1figs-rquestionτοσαῦτα ἐπάθετε εἰκῇ1Have you suffered so many things for nothing…?

Paul uses this rhetorical question to remind the Galatians that when they were suffering, they believed that they would receive some benefit. Alternate translation: “Surely you did not think that you were suffering so many things for nothing…!” or “Surely you knew that there was some good purpose for suffering so many things…!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

78GAL340ujzἐπάθετε1

This could refer to: (1) suffering from persecution (2) the spiritual benefits they have experienced.

79GAL34qn1afigs-explicitτοσαῦτα ἐπάθετε εἰκῇ1Have you suffered so many things for nothing

It can be stated clearly that they had suffered these things because of people who opposed them for their faith in Christ. Alternate translation: “Have you suffered so many things by those who opposed you for your faith in Christ for nothing” or “You believed in Christ, and you suffered many things by those who oppose Christ. Were your belief and suffering for nothing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

80GAL34nq68εἰκῇ1for nothing

Alternate translation: “uselessly” or “in vain”

81GAL34xl9lfigs-rquestionεἴ γε καὶ εἰκῇ1if indeed it was for nothing?

This could mean: (1) Paul warns them not to let their experiences be for nothing. Alternate translation: “Do not let it be for nothing!” or “Do not stop believing in Jesus Christ and let your suffering be for nothing.” (2) their suffering was already in vain. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

82GAL35s3bcfigs-rquestionἐξ ἔργων νόμου ἢ ἐξ ἀκοῆς πίστεως1Does he…do so by the works of the law, or by hearing with faith?

Paul asks another rhetorical question to remind the Galatians how people receive the Spirit. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

83GAL35j4vzἐξ ἔργων νόμου1by the works of the law

This represents people doing the works that the law requires. Alternate translation: “because you do what the law tells us to do”

84GAL35e17qfigs-explicitἐξ ἀκοῆς πίστεως1by hearing with faith

Your language may require that what the people heard and whom they trusted be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “because you heard the message and had faith in Jesus” or “because you listened to the message and trusted in Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

85GAL36ahy90Connecting Statement:

Paul reminds the Galatian believers that even Abraham received righteousness by faith and not by the law.

86GAL36f7svἐλογίσθη αὐτῷ εἰς δικαιοσύνην1it was credited to him as righteousness

God saw Abrahams faith in God, so then God considered Abraham righteous.

87GAL37i9x4figs-abstractnounsοἱ ἐκ πίστεως1those of faith

Alternate translation: “those who believe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

88GAL37kq1hfigs-metaphorοὗτοι υἱοί εἰσιν Ἀβραὰμ1children of Abraham

Since Abraham was saved by faith, Abraham's true children are those who are also saved by faith as he was.This phrase goes against the opponents who claimed that the Galatian believers mustbe circumcised and obey the law in order to be a genuine son of Abraham. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

89GAL38vs1mfigs-personificationπροϊδοῦσα δὲ ἡ Γραφὴ1foreseeing
90GAL38k9tpfigs-youἐν σοὶ1In you
91GAL38j83jπάντα τὰ ἔθνη1all the nations

God was emphasizing that he was not favoring only the Jewish people, his chosen group. His plan of salvation was for both Jews and non-Jews.

92GAL310mxe7ὅσοι γὰρ ἐξ ἔργων νόμου 1the works of the law
93GAL310jhr2figs-metaphorὅσοι γὰρ ἐξ ἔργων νόμου εἰσὶν ὑπὸ κατάραν εἰσίν1All who rely on…the law are under a curse

Here, under a curse represents being cursed by God. Here it refers to eternal punishment. Alternate translation: “are cursed” or “God will eternally punish” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

94GAL311sn9hδῆλον1Now it is clear

Alternate translation: “it is obvious that” or “it is evident that”

95GAL311k6k5ἐν νόμῳ, οὐδεὶς δικαιοῦται παρὰ τῷ Θεῷ1no one is justified before God by the law

Alternate translation: “God justifies no one by the law”

96GAL311i537figs-nominaladjὁ δίκαιος ἐκ πίστεως ζήσεται1the righteous will live by faith
97GAL312rep5ζήσεται ἐν αὐτοῖς1must live by them
98GAL313ml63ἐκ τῆς κατάρας τοῦ νόμου1from the curse of the law
99GAL313mt6zὁ κρεμάμενος ἐπὶ ξύλου1hangs on a tree

Paul expected his audience to understand that he was referring to Jesus hanging on the cross.

100GAL314brf7ἵνα…ἡ εὐλογία τοῦ Ἀβραὰμ γένηται1so that the blessing of Abraham might come

Alternate translation: “Because Christ became a curse for us, the blessing of Abraham will come”

101GAL314h46qfigs-exclusiveλάβωμεν1we

The word we includes the people who would read the letter. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

102GAL315al9bἀδελφοί1Brothers

See how you translated this in Galatians 1:2.

103GAL315c3gsκατὰ ἄνθρωπον1in human terms
104GAL316f1xuδὲ1Now

This word shows that Paul has stated a general principle and is now beginning to introduce a specific case.

105GAL316w3wlὡς ἐπὶ πολλῶν1referring to many

Alternate translation: “referring to many descendants”

106GAL316t25efigs-youτῷ σπέρματί σου1to your descendant

The word your is singular and refers to a specific person who is a descendant of Abraham (and that descendant is identified as “Christ”). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

107GAL317h36mtranslate-numbersὁ μετὰ τετρακόσια καὶ τριάκοντα ἔτη1430 years

Alternate translation: “four hundred and thirty years” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

108GAL318ujg2figs-hypoεἰ γὰρ ἐκ νόμου ἡ κληρονομία, οὐκέτι ἐξ ἐπαγγελίας1For if the inheritance comes by the law, then it no longer comes by promise

Paul is speaking of a situation that did not exist to emphasize that the inheritance came only by means of the promise. Alternate translation: “the inheritance comes to us by means of the promise, because we could not keep the demands of Gods law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])

109GAL318c8fufigs-metaphorκληρονομία1inheritance

Receiving what God has promised believers is spoken of as if it were an inheritance of property. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

110GAL319kx2eτί οὖν ὁ νόμος1What, then, was the purpose of the law?

This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “I will tell you what the purpose of the law is.” or “Let me tell you why God gave the law.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

111GAL319uk9mfigs-activepassiveπροσετέθη1It was added

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God added it” or “God added the law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

112GAL319cf66figs-activepassiveδιαταγεὶς δι’ ἀγγέλων ἐν χειρὶ μεσίτου1The law was put into force through angels by a mediator

God used angels to give the law to Moses. Moses is referred here as a mediator between God and the people of Israel. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God issued the law with the help of angels, and a mediator put it into force” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

113GAL319bgi6χειρὶ μεσίτου1a mediator

Alternate translation: “given through a middleman”

114GAL320x9l1ὁ δὲ μεσίτης ἑνὸς οὐκ ἔστιν, ὁ δὲ Θεὸς εἷς ἐστιν1Now a mediator implies more than one person, but God is one

God gave his promise to Abraham without a mediator, but he gave the law to Moses, who was a mediator between God and the people of Israel.

115GAL321wes3figs-exclusive0General Information:

The word us in this section is inclusive and refers to all Christians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

116GAL321e43uκατὰ τῶν ἐπαγγελιῶν1against the promises

Alternate translation: “opposed to the promises” or “in conflict with the promises”

117GAL321iyg9ἐν νόμου ἂν ἦν ἡ δικαιοσύνη1righteousness would certainly have come by the law

Alternate translation: “we could have become righteous by obeying that law”

118GAL322jbn7figs-personificationἡ Γραφὴ1scripture

This could refer to: (1) a particular passage of Scripture (2) all of scripture (3) a metonymy for God himself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

119GAL323su16figs-activepassiveὑπὸ νόμον ἐφρουρούμεθα, συνκλειόμενοι1we were held captive under the law, imprisoned

The way the law controlled us is spoken of as if the law were a prison guard holding us as captives. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the law held us captive in prison” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

120GAL323t32jfigs-activepassiveεἰς τὴν μέλλουσαν πίστιν ἀποκαλυφθῆναι1until faith should be revealed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “until God would reveal that he justifies those who have faith in Christ” or “until God would reveal that he justifies those who trust in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

121GAL324ln1sfigs-personificationπαιδαγωγὸς1guardian

A guardian was usually a slave who was responsible for enforcing rules and behaviors given by the parent and would report to the parent on the childs actions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

122GAL324s8g5figs-activepassiveἵνα…δικαιωθῶμεν1so that we might be justified

Before Christ came, God had planned to justify us. When Christ came, he carried out his plan to justify us. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “so that God would declare us to be righteous” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

123GAL327v6n1ὅσοι γὰρ εἰς Χριστὸν ἐβαπτίσθητε1For as many of you who were baptized into Christ

Alternate translation: “For all of you who were baptized into Christ”

124GAL327di9vfigs-metaphorΧριστὸν ἐνεδύσασθε1have clothed yourselves with Christ

This is a metaphor that means they have been united to Christ and have put on his character of righteousness and virtue. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

125GAL329qp4zfigs-metaphorκληρονόμοι1heirs

The people to whom God has made promises are spoken of as if they were to inherit property and wealth from a family member. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

126GAL4introh6gw0

Galatians 4 General Notes

Structure and formatting

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 verse 27, which is quoted from the Old Testament.

Special concepts in this chapter

Sonship

Sonship is a complex issue. Scholars have many views on Israels sonship. Paul uses sonship to teach how being under the law differs from being free in Christ. Not all of Abrahams physical descendants inherited Gods promises to him. Only his descendants through Isaac and Jacob inherited the promises. And God only adopts into his family those who follow Abraham spiritually through faith. They are children of God with an inheritance. Paul calls them “children of promise.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/inherit]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/promise]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/spirit]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/adoption]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Abba, Father

“Abba” is an Aramaic word. In ancient Israel, people used it to informally refer to their fathers. Paul “transliterates” its sounds by writing them with Greek letters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate]])

127GAL41fr5u0Connecting Statement:

Paul continues to remind the Galatian believers that Christ came to redeem those who were under the law, and that he rescued them from their enslavement to the law and to sin and has made them God's children.

128GAL42bd5aἐπιτρόπους1guardians
129GAL42v5g9οἰκονόμους1trustees
130GAL43d6v9figs-inclusiveἦμεν0General Information:

The word “we” here refers to all Christians, including Pauls readers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])

131GAL43n21qfigs-metaphorὅτε ἦμεν νήπιοι1when we were children

Here children is a metaphor for the time before someone trusts in the Messiah. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

132GAL43u462τὰ στοιχεῖα τοῦ κόσμου1the elemental principles of the world

This could refer to: (1) the laws, knowledge, or moral principles of the world (2) the spiritual beings, which some people thought control what happens on earth (3) the Jewish religion.

133GAL43cd2wfigs-metaphorἡμεῖἤμεθα δεδουλωμένοι1we were enslaved to the elemental principles of the world
134GAL44l5tfguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτὸν Υἱὸν1Son

This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

135GAL44ujfp τὸ πλήρωμα τοῦ χρόνου,1
136GAL45v5cbfigs-metaphorἐξαγοράσῃ1redeem

Paul uses the metaphor of a person buying back lost property or buying the freedom of a slave as a picture of Jesus paying for his peoples sins by dying on the cross. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

137GAL46a274ἐστε υἱοί1you are sons

Paul uses the word for male child here because the subject is inheritance. In his culture and that of his readers, inheritance passed most commonly, but not always, to male children. He was neither specifying nor excluding female children here.

138GAL46xhe6guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτοῦ υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ1his Son

This is an important title for Jesus, the Son of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]]) The Holy Spirit is intimately linked to God's Son. The Spirit was the promise of the Son (Jn. 14) as well as of the Father. It is by the Spirit that Christ lives in our hearts.

139GAL46nei3figs-metonymyεἰς τὰς καρδίας ἡμῶν1sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts

The heart is metonym for the center and source of the whole inner life of a person. It is the source of thinking, feeling, and volition. Alternate translation: “to live in us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

140GAL46s54rκρᾶζον1who calls
141GAL46eqx5Ἀββά, ὁ Πατήρ1God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, who calls out, “Abba, Father.”

By calling out Abba, Father the Spirit assures us that we are Gods children and he loves us. Abba is an Aramaic word that was used by a child to address their father.

142GAL47e7tcυἱός1you are no longer a slave, but a son

Paul uses son here because the subject is inheritance. In his culture and that of his readers, inheritance passed most commonly, but not always, to male children. He was neither specifying nor excluding female children here.

143GAL47akb8figs-youεἶ 1you are no longer a slave…you are also an heir

Paul is addressing his readers as though they are one person, so you here is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

144GAL47d5hufigs-metaphorκληρονόμος1heir

The word heir refers to how believers inherit the promises God made to Abraham like a person inherits property and wealth from a family member. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

145GAL48ukf50Connecting Statement:

Paul reminds the Galatian believers that they are again trying to live under Gods laws rather than living by faith.

146GAL48cj5iτοῖς φύσει μὴ οὖσι θεοῖς1those who are

The phrase, those, by nature, not being gods refers to the beings which the Galatians served when they were pagans and were considered by them to be gods, but they were not really gods

147GAL49b8uefigs-metaphorἐπιστρέφετε πάλιν1how is it that you are turning back to…principles?

Here, turning again is a metaphor for starting to follow and obey their former false religion practices. This is the first of two rhetorical questions Paul gives. Alternate translation: “you should not start obeying again.” or “you should not follow again.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

148GAL49n5ieτὰ ἀσθενῆ καὶ πτωχὰ στοιχεῖα1elemental principles

See how you translated this phrase in Galatians 4:3.

149GAL49w28kfigs-rquestionοἷς πάλιν ἄνωθεν δουλεύειν θέλετε1Do you want to be enslaved all over again?

Paul uses this rhetorical question to rebuke the Galatian believers for behaving in a way that would make them like slaves. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

150GAL49s77efigs-metaphorοἷς πάλιν ἄνωθεν δουλεύειν θέλετε1Do you want to be enslaved all over again?

Here, to be enslaved again is a metaphor for being obligated to obey certain rules or customs. Alternate translation: “Do you want to have to obey rules again like a slave must obey his master?” or “It seems that you want to be controlled by these rules all over again!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

151GAL410w7d5ἡμέρας παρατηρεῖσθε, καὶ μῆνας, καὶ καιροὺς, καὶ ἐνιαυτούς1You observe days and new moons and seasons and years

Paul is speaking of their being careful to celebrate certain times, thinking that doing that will make them right with God. Alternate translation: “You carefully celebrate days and new moons and seasons and years”

152GAL411bsv1εἰκῇ1may have been for nothing

Alternate translation: “may have been useless” or “has not had any effect”

153GAL412ql140Connecting Statement:

Paul reminds the Galatian believers how kindly they treated him when he was with them, and he encourages them to continue to trust him while he is not there with them.

154GAL412p9gnἀδελφοί1brothers

See how you translated this in [Galatians 1:2] and [Galatians 3:15] (../01/02.md).

155GAL412n3wfοὐδέν με ἠδικήσατε1You did me no wrong

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “You treated me well” or “You treated me as you should have.”

156GAL414tk1lκαὶ τὸν πειρασμὸν ὑμῶν ἐν τῇ σαρκί μου1Though my physical condition put you to the test

This could mean: (1) they endured the difficulty of welcoming Paul when he was sick (2) they resisted the temptation to reject Paul when he was sick.

157GAL414v9xaοὐκ ἐξουθενήσατε1despise
158GAL417s9knἀλλὰ ἐκκλεῖσαι ὑμᾶς1to shut you out

Alternate translation: “to shut you out from us” or “to make you stop being loyal to us”

159GAL417iv1dαὐτοὺς ζηλοῦτε1zealous for them
160GAL419u3ebfigs-metaphorτέκνα μου1My little children

This is a metaphor and points to the fact that it was through Paul that the Galatians had become Christians. Alternate translation: “You who are disciples because of me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

161GAL419yf9efigs-metaphorοὓς…ὠδίνω, μέχρις οὗ μορφωθῇ Χριστὸς ἐν ὑμῖν1I am in the pains of childbirth for you until Christ is formed in you

Paul uses childbirth as a metaphor for his concern about the Galatians. Alternate translation: “I am in pain as though I were a woman giving birth to you, and I will continue to be in pain until Christ truly controls you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

162GAL421z1umλέγετέ μοι1Tell me

Alternate translation: “I want to ask a question” or “I want to tell you something”.

163GAL421u6fsfigs-rquestionτὸν νόμον οὐκ ἀκούετε1do you not listen to the law?

Paul is introducing what he will say next. Alternate translation: “you need to learn what the law really says.” or “let me tell you what the law really says.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

164GAL424k5quἀλληγορούμενα1as an allegory

An allegory is a historical event that represents something else. In Pauls allegory, the two women referred to in Galatians 4:22 represent two different covenants.

165GAL424u4hrfigs-synecdocheὌρους Σινά1Mount Sinai

Mount Sinai is a synecdoche for the law that Moses gave to the Israelites there. Alternate translation: “Mount Sinai, where Moses gave the law to Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

166GAL424u3u9figs-metaphorδουλείαν γεννῶσα1she gives birth to children who are slaves

Paul treats the law as if it were a person. Alternate translation: “The people under this covenant are like slaves who have to obey the law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

167GAL425u1ccσυνστοιχεῖ1she represents
168GAL425ck7vfigs-metaphorδουλεύει…μετὰ τῶν τέκνων αὐτῆς1she is in slavery with her children

Hagar is a slave and her children are slaves with her. Alternate translation: “Jerusalem, like Hagar, is a slave, and her children are slaves with her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

169GAL427jql2εὐφράνθητι1Rejoice
170GAL428ad75ἀδελφοί1brothers

See how you translated this word in Galatians 1:2.

171GAL428ct63ἐπαγγελίας τέκνα1children of promise

Here, children of promise could refer to: (1) Abraham's children (2) God's children.

172GAL429c9lffigs-metaphorκατὰ σάρκα1according to the flesh

This refers to how Abraham became Ishmaels father by taking Hagar as a wife. Alternate translation: “by means of human action” or “the natural way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

173GAL429gt1eκατὰ Πνεῦμα1according to the Spirit
174GAL431sy8uἀδελφοί1brothers

See how you translated this in Galatians 1:2.

175GAL5introbcg30

Galatians 5 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Paul continues writing about the law of Moses as something that traps or enslaves a person. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])

Special concepts in this chapter

Fruit of the Spirit

The phrase “the fruit of the Spirit” is not plural, even though it begins a list of several things. Translators should keep the singular form if possible. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/fruit]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Illustrations

Paul uses several metaphors in this chapter to illustrate his points and help explain complicated issues. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“You are cut off from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you no longer experience grace.”

Some scholars think Paul teaches that being circumcised causes a person to lose their salvation. Other scholars think Paul means that obeying the law to try to get right with God will keep a person from being saved by grace. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/grace]])

176GAL51up160Connecting Statement:

Paul applies the allegory of the two women to remind believers that the are free from having to obey the law.

177GAL51kuu9figs-explicitτῇ ἐλευθερίᾳ, ἡμᾶς Χριστὸς ἠλευθέρωσεν1For freedom Christ has set us free

For freedom Christ set us free implies that Christ sets believers free from the law and that they are not obligated to obey it. Alternate translation: “Christ has set us free from the old covenant so that we might be free” or “Christ has set us free so that we might live as free people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

178GAL51j679figs-metaphorστήκετε1Stand firm

Stand firm is a metaphor for being strongly resolute. Here, it is implied that the Galatian believers are continue to be determined to live a life free from the law. Alternate translation: “Do not give in {to the arguments of people who teach something else}” or “Be determined {to stay free}” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

179GAL51ovu1figs-metaphorμὴ πάλιν ζυγῷ δουλείας ἐνέχεσθε1
180GAL52lrsxἐὰν περιτέμνησθε1
181GAL52vk9oΧριστὸς ὑμᾶς οὐδὲν ὠφελήσει.1

Paul means that if a person is circumcised in order to receive salvation, then all that Christ has done for them is for nothing. No one can be justified by faith in Christ and at the same time by their own efforts.

182GAL53h4q5μαρτύρομαι δὲ1I testify
183GAL54h4yufigs-metaphorκατηργήθητε ἀπὸ Χριστοῦ1You are cut off from Christ

Here cut off is a metaphor for separation from Christ. Alternate translation: “You have ended your relationship with Christ” or “You are no longer united with Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

184GAL54ipf7οἵτινες ἐν νόμῳ δικαιοῦσθε1you who would be justified by the law

The phrase being justified by the law describes the attempt or pursuit to be justified by the law. Alternate translation: “all of you who think you can be justified by doing the deeds required by the law” or “you who want to be justified by the law”

185GAL54k6xefigs-explicitτῆς χάριτος ἐξεπέσατε1you no longer experience grace
186GAL55pdm1figs-exclusive0General Information:
187GAL55vvk6 Πνεύματι1For through the Spirit
188GAL55qg9mἡμεῖς…ἐκ πίστεως ἐλπίδα δικαιοσύνης ἀπεκδεχόμεθα1by faith, we eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness

This could mean: (1) “we are waiting by faith for the hope of righteousness” (2) “we are waiting for the hope of righteousness that comes by faith.”

189GAL56y2wwfigs-metonymyοὔτε περιτομή…οὔτε ἀκροβυστία1neither circumcision nor uncircumcision

The words circumcision and uncircumcision refer to being a Jew or a non-Jew. Alternate translation: “neither being a Jew nor not being a Jew” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

190GAL56qp6bτι ἰσχύει1means anything
191GAL57jj48figs-metaphorἐτρέχετε1You were running
192GAL58sx6uπεισμονὴ1persuasion
193GAL59q926 μικρὰ ζύμη 1

A little leaven describes the teaching of circumcision, which threaten to ruin the entire lives of the Galatian believers.

194GAL510enp1οὐδὲν ἄλλο φρονήσετε1you will take no other view
195GAL510jc72ταράσσων ὑμᾶς1is troubling you

Alternate translation: “is causing you to be uncertain about the truth” or “stirs up trouble among you”

196GAL510llh5ὅστις ἐὰν ᾖ1whoever he is

This could mean: (1) Paul does not know the names of the people who are telling the Galatians that they need to obey the law of Moses (2) Paul does not want the Galatians to care about whether they are important or influential.

197GAL511d4mmfigs-hypoἐγὼ δέ, ἀδελφοί, εἰ περιτομὴν ἔτι κηρύσσω, τί ἔτι διώκομαι1Brothers, if I still proclaim circumcision, why am I still being persecuted?

Paul is describing a situation that does not exist to emphasize the fact that people are persecuting him. This can be stated in active form. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])

198GAL511nv5xἀδελφοί1Brothers

See how you translated this in [Galatians 1:2], [Galatians 3:15], [Galatians 4:12] (../01/02.md).

199GAL511y3ugfigs-activepassiveκατήργηται τὸ σκάνδαλον τοῦ σταυροῦ1the stumbling block of the cross has been removed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the teaching about the cross has no stumbling block” or “there is nothing in the teaching of the cross that would cause people to stumble” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

200GAL511arj5figs-metaphorκατήργηται τὸ σκάνδαλον τοῦ σταυροῦ1the stumbling block of the cross has been removed

Stumbling represents sinning, and a stumbling block represents something that causes people to sin. In this case the sin is to reject the truth of the teaching that in order to be made right with God, people only need to believe that Jesus died on the cross for us. Alternate translation: “the teaching about the cross that causes people to reject the truth has been removed” or “there is nothing in the teaching about Jesus dying on the cross that would lead people to reject the teaching” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

201GAL512sfl2figs-metaphorἀποκόψονται1castrate themselves

This could be: (1) literal, to cut off their male organs so as to become eunuchs (2) metaphorical, completely withdraw from the Christian community. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

202GAL513y1g7γὰρ1For

Paul is giving the reason for his words in Galatians 5:12.

203GAL513ekb2figs-metaphorὑμεῖς…ἐπ’ ἐλευθερίᾳ ἐκλήθητε1you were called to freedom

It is implied that Christ has set believers free from the old covenant. Here freedom from the old covenant is a metaphor for not being obligated to obey it. Alternate translation: “You were called to freedom from the old covenant” or “Christ has chosen you to not be obligated to the old covenant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

204GAL513yp6rἀδελφοί1brothers

See how you translated this in Galatians 1:2.

205GAL513viv6figs-explicitἀφορμὴν τῇ σαρκί1an opportunity for the sinful nature
206GAL514ct8iὁ…πᾶς νόμος ἐν ἑνὶ λόγῳ πεπλήρωται1the whole law is fulfilled in one command

This could mean: (1) “you can state the whole law in just one commandment” (2) “by obeying one commandment, you obey all the commandments.”

207GAL514qt9cfigs-yousingularἀγαπήσεις τὸν πλησίον σου ὡς σεαυτόν1You must love your neighbor as yourself

The words your and yourself are singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])

208GAL516yb58figs-metaphorΠνεύματι περιπατεῖτε1walk by the Spirit

Here, walk is a metaphor for living. Alternate translation: “conduct your life in the power of the Holy Spirit” or “live your life in dependence on the Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

209GAL516dyj7figs-idiomἐπιθυμίαν σαρκὸς οὐ μὴ τελέσητε1you will not carry out the desires of the sinful nature
210GAL516rl5sfigs-personificationἐπιθυμίαν σαρκὸς1the desires of the sinful nature

The sinful nature is spoken of as if it were a person and wanted to sin. Alternate translation: “what you want to do because of your sinful nature” or “the things you want to do because you are sinful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]]). See how you translated this flesh in [Galatians 5:13].

211GAL518san8οὐκ ἐστὲ ὑπὸ νόμον1not under the law

Alternate translation: “you are not obligated to obey the law of Moses”

212GAL519yf2afigs-personificationτὰ ἔργα τῆς σαρκός1the works of the sinful nature
213GAL521rs9bfigs-metaphorκληρονομήσουσιν1inherit

The word inherit is used as a metaphor to refer to how believers will receive what God has promised believers like someone who inherits property and wealth from a family member. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

214GAL522hez3figs-metaphorὁ δὲ καρπὸς τοῦ Πνεύματός1the fruit of the Spirit is love…faith

Here, fruit is a metaphor for “result” or “outcome.” Alternate translation: “But what the Spirit produces” or “But the Spirit makes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

215GAL524l6uxfigs-personificationτὴν σάρκα ἐσταύρωσαν σὺν τοῖς παθήμασιν καὶ ταῖς ἐπιθυμίαις1have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires
216GAL525h9hdεἰ ζῶμεν Πνεύματι1If we live by the Spirit

Alternate translation: “Since Gods Spirit has caused us to be alive”

217GAL525sq7bfigs-metaphorΠνεύματι καὶ στοιχῶμεν1walk by the Spirit
218GAL6introbv8h0

Galatians 6 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter concludes Pauls letter. His final words address some issues that do not seem to be connected to the rest of his letter.

Brothers

Paul writes the words in this chapter to Christians. He calls them “brothers.” This refers to Pauls Christian brothers and not his Jewish brothers.

Special concepts in this chapter

New Creation

People who are born again are a new creation in Christ. Christians have been given new life in Christ. They have a new nature in them after they come to faith in Christ. To Paul, this is more significant than a persons ancestry. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/bornagain]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Flesh

This is a complex issue. “Flesh” is contrasted with “spirit.” In this chapter, flesh is also used to refer to the physical body. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/flesh]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/spirit]])

219GAL61x8zg0Connecting Statement:

Paul teaches believers how they should treat other believers and how God rewards someone who is faithful.

220GAL61ss7lἀδελφοί1Brothers

See how you translated brothers in [Galatians 1:2], [Galatians 3:15], [Galatians 4:12], and [Galatians 5:11] (../01/02.md).

221GAL61vm8fἐὰν…ἄνθρωπος1if someone
222GAL61vts8ἐὰν καὶ προλημφθῇ ἄνθρωπος ἔν τινι παραπτώματι1if someone is caught in any trespass
223GAL61t4rmὑμεῖς, οἱ πνευματικοὶ1you who are spiritual
224GAL61hdj8καταρτίζετε τὸν τοιοῦτον1restore him
225GAL61tr5rἐν πνεύματι πραΰτητος1in a spirit of gentleness
226GAL61rrg9figs-yousingularσκοπῶν σεαυτόν1Be concerned about yourself

These words treat the Galatians as though they are all one person to emphasize that he is talking to each of them. Alternate translation: “Be concerned about yourselves” or “I say to each one of you, Be careful for yourself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])

227GAL61ljx6figs-activepassiveμὴ καὶ σὺ πειρασθῇς1so you also may not be tempted

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “so that you are tempted and also sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

228GAL62m6jzἀναπληρώσετε τὸν νόμον τοῦ Χριστοῦ1

Here, the law of Christ does not refer to a set of rules, but most likely to the Messiah's command to love one another in John 13:34. It involves submission to the person of Jesus and not to a code or list of commandments. This is similar to Paul's statement that the law can be summarized by loving one another in [Galatians 5:14].

229GAL63v6tsεἰ γὰρ1For if

For could be connected to: (1) carry one anothers burdens (Galatians 6:2) (2) lest you also might be tempted (Galatians 6:1) (3) Let us not become conceited* (Galatians 5:26).

230GAL63m4wkεἶναί τι1he is something

Alternate translation: “he is better than others”

231GAL63zz1gμηδὲν ὤν1he is nothing

Alternate translation: “he is not better than others”

232GAL65ee8vτὸ ἴδιον φορτίον βαστάσει1each one will carry his own load
233GAL67x5pifigs-metaphorὃ γὰρ ἐὰν σπείρῃ ἄνθρωπος, τοῦτο καὶ θερίσει1for whatever a man plants, that he will also gather in

Here, sow represents doing things that end in some kind of result, and reap represents experiencing the results of what one has done. Alternate translation: “for just as a farmer gathers in the fruit of whatever kind of seeds he plants, so everyone experiences the results of whatever he does” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

234GAL67gii9figs-gendernotationsὃ γὰρ ἐὰν σπείρῃ ἄνθρωπος1whatever a man plants

Alternate translation: “whatever a person plants” or “whatever someone plants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

235GAL68lzz8figs-metaphorὁ σπείρων εἰς τὴν σάρκα ἑαυτοῦ1plants seed to his own sinful nature
236GAL68dge9figs-metaphorθερίσει φθοράν1will gather in destruction
237GAL68aqz2figs-metaphorὁ δὲ σπείρων εἰς τὸ Πνεῦμα1plants seed to the Spirit
238GAL68k1p7ἐκ τοῦ Πνεύματος θερίσει ζωὴν αἰώνιον1will gather in eternal life from the Spirit
239GAL69u77cκαιρῷ γὰρ ἰδίῳ1for at the right time
240GAL610ax66ἄρα οὖν1So then

Alternate translation: “As a result of this” or “Because of this”

241GAL610jz9iτοὺς οἰκείους τῆς πίστεως1those who belong to the household of faith

Alternate translation: “those who are members of Gods family through faith in Christ”

242GAL611i7ap0Connecting Statement:

As Paul closes this letter, he gives one more reminder that the law does not save and that they should remember the cross of Christ.

243GAL611d6rkτῇ ἐμῇ χειρί1with my own hand

This could mean: (1) Paul had someone write most of this letter as Paul told him what to write, but Paul himself wrote this last part of the letter (2) Paul wrote the whole letter himself.

244GAL612kmd7εὐπροσωπῆσαι ἐν σαρκί1make a good impression

Alternate translation: “others will think well of them” or “others will think that they are good people”

245GAL612r5p1ἐν σαρκί1in the flesh
246GAL612jd4xfigs-metonymyτῷ σταυρῷ1the cross

Here, for the cross represents what Christ did for us when he died on the cross. Alternate translation: “the work Jesus did on the cross” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

247GAL614v2qsfigs-ellipsisκἀγὼ κόσμῳ1I to the world

The words has been crucified are understood from the previous phrase. This means that the natural world has stopped having any claims or influence on Paul. Alternate translation: “and I have been crucified to the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

248GAL615n6n7καινὴ κτίσις1a new creation

Here, a new creation refers to the whole process of conversion when someone trusts in the Messiah and the Holy Spirit gives that person new life.

249GAL616b4alτὸν Ἰσραὴλ τοῦ Θεοῦ1peace and mercy be upon them, even upon the Israel of God

This could refer to: (1) believers in general are the Israel of God (2) Jewish believers are the Israel of God (3) the Jews in general are the Israel of God

250GAL617cz8aκόπους μοι1trouble me

This means Paul does not want the Galatian believers to doubt his authority or continue to cause him trouble by following teachers who demand them to become circumcised.

251GAL617j729ἐγὼ γὰρ τὰ στίγματα τοῦ Ἰησοῦ ἐν τῷ σώματί μου βαστάζω1for I carry on my body the marks of Jesus

Here, the marks were scars from people who beat and whipped Paul because they did not like him teaching about Jesus. Alternate translation: “for the scars on my body show that I serve Jesus”

252GAL618pk25ἀδελφοί1brothers

See how you translated this in Galatians 1:2.