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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)
  2. Instructions for celebrating the Passover (12:130)
  3. 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)
  4. 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 Dwelling and its furnishings; what was required of those who serve in it; dwelling 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 Dwelling. The Dwelling was a tent where Yahweh would be among his people. The Israelites worshiped and sacrificed animals to Yahweh at the Dwelling. (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 a very powerful nation in the region 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 that 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. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/passover]])

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 Dwelling.

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; the 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 4 and 14, 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 Dwelling in Exodus 2532 repeated in Exodus 3540?

In Exodus 2532, God describes exactly how the Dwelling was to be built. The details were repeated in Exodus 3540 in the description of the actual construction. This showed that the people were 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 Dwelling 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.

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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.

  • v. 1-7: Jacobs family grows
  • v. 8-22: Pharaoh oppresses the Israelites and tries to limit the Israelites growth

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Israels growth

Israel grew in number. This was the beginning of Gods fulfilling his promises to Abraham. It also caused the Pharaoh to worry that there would be more Israelites than Egyptians, with the result that the Egyptians would be unable to defend themselves against so many people. Pharaoh 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]])

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.
  • Starting from verse 7, the terms Hebrews and sons of Israel both refer to the Israelite nation or people group.
  • God blesses the Hebrew midwives for lying to the wicked Pharaoh. Translators should not attempt to hide this. They showed that they feared God by disobeying a wicked order in order to preserve the lives of Gods people. They “acted wisely toward him” (or shrewdly, see 1:10) by lying to foil Pharaoh.
  • Pharaoh is a specifically Egyptian word for their kings (and queens).
4EXO11h51fwriting-background0

Verses 17 are background information for the story. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

5EXO11fxbxfigs-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]])

6EXO11e65ztranslate-namesיִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל…יַעֲקֹ֔ב1

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

7EXO11g89kfigs-metonymyוּ⁠בֵית֖⁠וֹ1household

Here, house refers to all of the people who live together, usually a large family with servants. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “and his household” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

8EXO15uk67figs-metonymyוַֽ⁠יְהִ֗י כָּל־נֶ֛פֶשׁ יֹצְאֵ֥י יֶֽרֶךְ־יַעֲקֹ֖ב שִׁבְעִ֣ים נָ֑פֶשׁ1household

Here, lives refers to people (specifically, men); going out of the loins of Jacob is a reference to these people as being in his seed or semen and produced through his sexual actstherefore meaning they are his descendants. See also Hebrews 7:9-10. Alternate translation: “And all the male descendants of Jacob numbered 70.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

9EXO16sh42grammar-connect-time-sequentialוַ⁠יָּ֤מָת1

They did not die immediately. Jacob and his sons spent the rest of their lives in Egypt and died there. If necessary, use a transition word that conveys that some time passed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])

10EXO16g5qgtranslate-kinshipוְ⁠כָל־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” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship]])

11EXO17c368figs-metonymyוּ⁠בְנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל1

This is the first of many times in this book that sons of Israel refers to the Israelite nation or people. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “And the people of Israel” or “And the Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

12EXO17c7epfigs-doubletפָּר֧וּ וַֽ⁠יִּשְׁרְצ֛וּ וַ⁠יִּרְבּ֥וּ וַ⁠יַּֽעַצְמ֖וּ1

All of these verbs mean similar things; they are used together to emphasize that the Israelites 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: “had many children and became strong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

13EXO17uo65פָּר֧וּ…וַ⁠יִּרְבּ֥וּ…וַ⁠תִּמָּלֵ֥א הָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ1

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

14EXO17nk2lfigs-metaphorפָּר֧וּ וַֽ⁠יִּשְׁרְצ֛וּ1were fruitful

The birth of children to the Israelites is spoken of as if they were plants that were producing fruit and causing new plants to grow around them. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “had many children” or “gave birth to many children” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

15EXO17x97mfigs-abstractnounsבִּ⁠מְאֹ֣ד מְאֹ֑ד1were fruitful

If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun greatness in another way. Alternate translation: “and were very great” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

16EXO17r2f1figs-activepassiveוַ⁠תִּמָּלֵ֥א הָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ אֹתָֽ⁠ם1the land was filled with them

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language Alternate translation: “and they filled the land” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

17EXO17e110figs-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-pronounsאֹתָֽ⁠ם1with them

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

19EXO18eu8ywriting-neweventוַ⁠יָּ֥קָם1

This introduces a new event that happened some time after the events the story has just related. The story does not say how long after those events this new event happened. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

20EXO18d20ywriting-participantsמֶֽלֶךְ־חָדָ֖שׁ1

The story begins with the new king. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new character.(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. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. 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]])

22EXO18dnkwfigs-metonymyלֹֽא־יָדַ֖ע אֶת־יוֹסֵֽף1

Here, Joseph refers to both the person Joseph and to all of the good things that he did for Egypt. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

23EXO19aku3figs-exclamationsהִנֵּ֗ה1

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]])

24EXO19x65ifigs-possessionעַמּ֑⁠וֹ1his people

The people whom the king rules over and who are also part of his group (probably shared ethnicity, tribe, or clan) rather than the Israelite group 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]])

25EXO19t7s1עַמּ֑⁠וֹ1

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.

26EXO19jik8מִמֶּֽ⁠נּוּ1

Use a way that is natural in your language to compare non-specific sizes of groups of people. Alternate translation: “and much greater than us”

27EXO19njuffigs-quotemarksהִנֵּ֗ה1

Beginning from behold and extending to the end of verse 10 is a direct quotation 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. There may be other quotations in this chapter; they will be marked by the same punctuation, but they will not have their own notes. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

28EXO110hiq4figs-exclusiveנִֽתְחַכְּמָ֖ה…שֹׂ֣נְאֵ֔י⁠נוּ…בָּ֖⁠נוּ1let us

The word us is inclusive and refers to the king and his people, the Egyptians. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

29EXO110wkvfgrammar-collectivenounsל֑⁠וֹ…יִרְבֶּ֗ה…וְ⁠נוֹסַ֤ף…הוּא֙…וְ⁠נִלְחַם…וְ⁠עָלָ֥ה1let us

Here, him, he, and himself refer to the Israelite people. The pronouns agree grammatically with the singular “people” in the original. This occurs in many places in Exodus. If this is confusing in your language, you can use the plural, as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

30EXO110il4ugrammar-connect-condition-hypotheticalפֶּן־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

Alternate translation: “and he leaves Egypt”

32EXO111y2miשָׂרֵ֣י1taskmasters

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

33EXO111o926מִסִּ֔ים1

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

34EXO111l9ljלְמַ֥עַן עַנֹּת֖⁠וֹ בְּ⁠סִבְלֹתָ֑⁠ם1to oppress them with hard labor

Alternate translation: “to force the Israelites to do hard work for the Egyptians”

35EXO111pkz4עָרֵ֤י 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”

36EXO111dy34figs-possessionעָרֵ֤י מִסְכְּנוֹת֙1

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

37EXO112c1fygrammar-connect-logic-contrastוְ⁠כַ⁠אֲשֶׁר֙ יְעַנּ֣וּ אֹת֔⁠וֹ כֵּ֥ן יִרְבֶּ֖ה וְ⁠כֵ֣ן יִפְרֹ֑ץ1

This sentence expresses a result that is the opposite of what the king expected. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

38EXO112pdfkfigs-abstractnounsוַ⁠יָּקֻ֕צוּ מִ⁠פְּנֵ֖י1

If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun dread in another way. Alternate translation: “And they were very afraid of the face of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

39EXO112qgzzfigs-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 their country. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “of the growing Israelite population” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

40EXO113j1q6figs-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. If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind it in another way. Alternate translation: “And the Egyptians made the sons of Israel work very hard” or “And harshly, the Egyptians made the sons of Israel work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

41EXO114mx6vfigs-metaphorוַ⁠יְמָרְר֨וּ אֶת־חַיֵּי⁠הֶ֜ם1made their lives bitter

The difficult lives of the Israelites are spoken of as if their daily lives were bitter food that was difficult to eat. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “And they made their lives very difficult” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

42EXO114jre2figs-abstractnounsבַּ⁠עֲבֹדָ֣ה קָשָׁ֗ה1

If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind slavery in another way. Alternative translation: “by making them work hard as slaves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

43EXO114cuq7translate-unknownבְּ⁠חֹ֨מֶר֙1mortar

Mortar is a mixture of lime with cement, sand, and water, used in building to bond bricks or stones. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

44EXO114h5dxtranslate-unknownוּ⁠בִ⁠לְבֵנִ֔ים1

Bricks are blocks made of clay or mud with straw in them. They are hardened in the sun or in another manner before they are used for building.(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

45EXO114gzq7אֵ֚ת כָּל־עֲבֹ֣דָתָ֔⁠ם אֲשֶׁר־עָבְד֥וּ בָ⁠הֶ֖ם בְּ⁠פָֽרֶךְ׃1All their required work was hard

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

46EXO114ct02writing-pronounsוַ⁠יְמָרְר֨וּ…בָ⁠הֶ֖ם1

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

47EXO114acj5writing-pronounsחַיֵּי⁠הֶ֜ם…עֲבֹ֣דָתָ֔⁠ם…עָבְד֥וּ1

Here, their and they refer to the Israelites. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

48EXO114tqylfigs-abstractnounsבְּ⁠פָֽרֶךְ1

See how you translated rigor in the previous verse. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

49EXO115yoajwriting-newevent0

This sentence introduces a new event in the story. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

50EXO115hhw1לַֽ⁠מְיַלְּדֹ֖ת1midwives

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

51EXO115h8f8translate-namesשִׁפְרָ֔ה…פּוּעָֽה1Shiphrah…Puah

Shiphrah and Puah are womens names. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

52EXO115h59twriting-participantsשִׁפְרָ֔ה…פּוּעָֽה1

The midwives are introduced here as new participants in the story. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new character. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

53EXO116t8f5וַ⁠יֹּ֗אמֶר1

In the UST, the phrase and the king said, is combined with “spoke” from verse 15 (ULT) because the verb for “say” is used twice before he speaks. Having two speech verbs may be strange in some languages. If it would be unnatural to say that the king spoke or said words twice, you may leave one off.

54EXO116zfcvfigs-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]])

55EXO116h3mbfigs-metonymyעַל־הָ⁠אָבְנָ֑יִם1on the birthstool

Women sat on this short stool as they gave birth. Therefore, it was associated with birth. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “in the birthing process” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

56EXO116nms7grammar-connect-condition-hypotheticalאִם־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). Use a natural form in your language for hypothetical situations connected to instructions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]])

57EXO117gy7kgrammar-connect-logic-contrastוַ⁠תִּירֶ֤אןָ1

But introduces a contrast to what was expected. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

58EXO118y9g5לַֽ⁠מְיַלְּדֹ֔ת1midwives

Women whose work is to help other woman give birth to a baby are called midwives. See how you translated this in Exodus 1:15.

59EXO118y73kfigs-quotationsוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר לָ⁠הֶ֔ן מַדּ֥וּעַ עֲשִׂיתֶ֖ן הַ⁠דָּבָ֣ר הַ⁠זֶּ֑ה וַ⁠תְּחַיֶּ֖יןָ אֶת־הַ⁠יְלָדִֽים1

If it would be more natural in your language, you could translate this quotation as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “and he asked them why they were letting the sons live.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

60EXO118q1syמַדּ֥וּעַ 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?”

61EXO118o97ufigs-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]])

62EXO119qbvygrammar-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]])

63EXO119cxu1figs-synecdocheוַ⁠תֹּאמַ֤רְןָ הַֽ⁠מְיַלְּדֹת֙1

Here, midwives said means that a midwife spoke representing the thoughts of the group. 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]])

64EXO119wl8hהַֽ⁠מְיַלְּדֹת֙1

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

65EXO120eh25לַֽ⁠מְיַלְּדֹ֑ת1midwives

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

66EXO120fj18writing-backgroundוַ⁠יִּ֧רֶב הָ⁠עָ֛ם וַ⁠יַּֽעַצְמ֖וּ מְאֹֽד1midwives

This sentence gives background information about the events at the time. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

67EXO120h133figs-doubletוַ⁠יִּ֧רֶב…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]])

68EXO120eo1pgrammar-connect-logic-resultוַ⁠יֵּ֥יטֶב 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. If it would be more natural in your language, you could rearrange verses 20-21 so that the reason (verses 21) comes before both the general and specific results. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

69EXO121de53grammar-connect-logic-resultכִּֽי־יָֽרְא֥וּ הַֽ⁠מְיַלְּדֹ֖ת אֶת־הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֑ים1

This is the reason for what God did. If it would be more natural in your language, you could rearrange verses 20-21 so that the reason (verses 21) comes before both the general and specific results. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

70EXO121pbvegrammar-connect-logic-resultוַ⁠יַּ֥עַשׂ לָ⁠הֶ֖ם בָּתִּֽים1

This describes the result of the midwives fearing God with a specific statement. If it would be more natural in your language, you could rearrange verses 20-21 so that the reason (verses 21) comes before both the general and specific results. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

71EXO121jx9cבָּתִּֽים1he gave them families

Alternate translation: “households”

72EXO122ld1jfigs-explicitכָּל־הַ⁠בֵּ֣ן הַ⁠יִּלּ֗וֹד הַ⁠יְאֹ֨רָ⁠ה֙ תַּשְׁלִיכֻ֔⁠הוּ1You must throw every son…into the river

This order was given in order to drown the male Hebrew 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]])

73EXO122a6b2figs-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]])

74EXO122stagfigs-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]])

75EXO2introrwf30

Exodus 02 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

  • v. 1-10: Moses birth and early life
  • v. 11-15: Moses attempted intervention and flight
  • v. 16-22: Moses settles in Midian
  • v. 23-25: God sees the Israelites plight

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Covenant

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

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.

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.

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 the people rejected him at this point (see Acts 7).
76EXO21wvj9writing-neweventוַ⁠יֵּ֥לֶךְ1Now

A new scene begins here. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

77EXO21riy7writing-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]])

78EXO21mp7mfigs-idiomוַ⁠יִּקַּ֖ח אֶת־בַּת־לֵוִֽי1

Here, took a daughter is an idiom for marrying. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression from your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

79EXO22s49kט֣וֹב1

Alternative translations: “pleasing” or “fine”

80EXO22q4c0grammar-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]])

81EXO22j2estranslate-numbersשְׁלֹשָׁ֥ה1

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

82EXO23t2gjtranslate-unknownתֵּ֣בַת גֹּ֔מֶא1papyrus basket

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

83EXO23tn3yfigs-explicitוַ⁠תַּחְמְרָ֥⁠ה בַ⁠חֵמָ֖ר וּ⁠בַ⁠זָּ֑פֶת1sealed it with bitumen and pitch

You could explicitly state that this was to keep out water. Alternate translation: “and she daubed it with bitumen and with pitch to keep water from getting into it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

84EXO23wpb6translate-unknownוַ⁠תַּחְמְרָ֥⁠ה1sealed

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

85EXO23ym3ktranslate-unknownבַ⁠חֵמָ֖ר1bitumen

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

86EXO23v825translate-unknownוּ⁠בַ⁠זָּ֑פֶת1pitch

This is a sticky brown or black substance that can be made from tree sap. 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]])

87EXO23y8gqtranslate-unknownבַּ⁠סּ֖וּף1reeds

These reeds were a type of tall grass with wide blades that formed a flat surface when woven together. They grew in flat, wet areas. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

88EXO24av8bוַ⁠תֵּתַצַּ֥ב 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.

89EXO24uf14figs-abstractnounsמֵ⁠רָחֹ֑ק1

This probably means somewhere in the reeds where she could see the basket, but no one would see her. If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun distance in another way. Alternate translation: “not far away” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

90EXO24ruvbtranslate-kinshipאֲחֹת֖⁠וֹ1

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

91EXO24z1cygrammar-connect-logic-goalלְ⁠דֵעָ֕ה מַה־יֵּעָשֶׂ֖ה לֽ⁠וֹ1

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

92EXO25m3i0figs-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]])

93EXO25y26hwriting-participantsוַ⁠תֵּ֤רֶד בַּת־פַּרְעֹה֙1

The daughter of Pharaoh is introduced here as a new participant. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new character. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

94EXO25jjkewriting-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]])

95EXO25im0dfigs-metaphorעַל־יַ֣ד הַ⁠יְאֹ֑ר1

Here, hand is a metaphor for side or, as relating to a river, shore. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you can simply translate the meaning. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

96EXO25bi7sוְ⁠נַעֲרֹתֶ֥י⁠הָ1her attendants

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

97EXO25am7gwriting-pronounsוַ⁠תִּקָּחֶֽ⁠הָ1

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

98EXO26g9n6figs-exclamationsוְ⁠הִנֵּה1Behold

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

99EXO26tyubgrammar-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]])

100EXO26jg0dfigs-quotemarksמִ⁠יַּלְדֵ֥י הָֽ⁠עִבְרִ֖ים זֶֽה1

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. It seems to have been said loud enough for the babys sister to hear. There may be other quotations in this chapter; they will be marked by the same punctuation, but they will not have their own notes. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

101EXO27x5jaוְ⁠קָרָ֤אתִי לָ⁠ךְ֙ אִשָּׁ֣ה מֵינֶ֔קֶת מִ֖ן הָ⁠עִבְרִיֹּ֑ת1

This is a suggestive question. The childs sister is hopeful that Pharaohs daughter does not yet have a plan 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.

102EXO27d7ajמֵינֶ֔קֶת…וְ⁠תֵינִ֥ק1nurse

Here, nursing or to nurse means to feed with milk from the breast.

103EXO27tqq9grammar-connect-logic-goalוְ⁠תֵינִ֥ק לָ֖⁠ךְ אֶת־הַ⁠יָּֽלֶד1

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

104EXO28ab1mfigs-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]])

105EXO29u554writing-participantsלָ֣⁠הּ1

The childs mother is reintroduced as a participant. Use the natural form in your language for reintroducing a character. Alternative translation: “to the babys mother” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

106EXO29moggשְׂכָרֵ֑⁠ךְ1

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

107EXO29hqsafigs-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]])

108EXO210zj8hgrammar-connect-time-sequentialוַ⁠יִגְדַּ֣ל הַ⁠יֶּ֗לֶד וַ⁠תְּבִאֵ֨⁠הוּ֙1she brought him

And the child grew older marks an unspecified amount of time. He would have stayed with his mother at least until he was weaned (no longer feeding on his mothers milk). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])

109EXO210j7n1וַֽ⁠יְהִי־לָ֖⁠הּ לְ⁠בֵ֑ן1he became her son

Alternate translation: “and he became the adopted son of Pharaohs daughter”

110EXO210h7togrammar-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 separation between these events. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])

111EXO210nh2mמֹשֶׁ֔ה 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.’”

112EXO210ityqfigs-quotationsוַ⁠תֹּ֕אמֶר כִּ֥י מִן־הַ⁠מַּ֖יִם מְשִׁיתִֽ⁠הוּ1

For begins 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. If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “because she said she drew him out of the water” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

113EXO211tyolgrammar-connect-time-sequentialוַ⁠יְהִ֣י ׀ 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]])

114EXO211p7gxwriting-neweventוַ⁠יְהִ֣י ׀ 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]])

115EXO211uy39figs-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]])

116EXO211swn3מַכֶּ֥ה אִישׁ־עִבְרִ֖י1striking a Hebrew

Alternate translation: “hitting a Hebrew” or “beating a Hebrew”

117EXO212m9bnfigs-merismוַ⁠יִּ֤פֶן כֹּה֙ וָ⁠כֹ֔ה1He looked this way and that way

These two opposite directions have the combined meaning of “everywhere.” If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “He looked all around” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

118EXO212rmgnfigs-explicitוַ⁠יַּךְ֙1

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-explicit]])

119EXO213qn45figs-goוַ⁠יֵּצֵא֙1He went out

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

120EXO213wqrmtranslate-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]])

121EXO213rgn1figs-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]])

122EXO213i4d6לָֽ⁠רָשָׁ֔ע1the one who was in the wrong

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

123EXO214qb2nfigs-rquestionמִ֣י שָֽׂמְ⁠ךָ֞ לְ⁠אִ֨ישׁ שַׂ֤ר וְ⁠שֹׁפֵט֙ עָלֵ֔י⁠נוּ1Who made you a leader and judge over us?

The man is not asking a question, he is using this question to rebuke Moses for intervening in the fight. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You are not our leader and have no right to judge us!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

124EXO214k6s5figs-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]])

125EXO214l62dfigs-rquestionהַ⁠לְ⁠הָרְגֵ֨⁠נִי֙ אַתָּ֣ה אֹמֵ֔ר כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֥ר הָרַ֖גְתָּ אֶת־הַ⁠מִּצְרִ֑י1

Again, the man asks a question that is intended to make a statement. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. 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]])

126EXO214d2jaהַ⁠לְ⁠הָרְגֵ֨⁠נִי֙ אַתָּ֣ה אֹמֵ֔ר1

Alternate translation: “Are you planning to kill me” or “Are you threatening to kill me”

127EXO214lyqhfigs-asideוַ⁠יֹּאמַ֔ר1

Certainly the thing is known was likely something Moses said to himself, that is, he thought it to himself rather than speaking to the men in front of him. If this would be confusing in your language, you might introduce it as a thought. Alternate translation: “and thought” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-aside]])

128EXO214vfw5figs-quotationsוַ⁠יֹּאמַ֔ר אָכֵ֖ן נוֹדַ֥ע הַ⁠דָּבָֽר1

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

129EXO215yutrוַ⁠יְבַקֵּ֖שׁ 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)

130EXO215l5rcfigs-metonymyמִ⁠פְּנֵ֣י1

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

131EXO215otslוַ⁠יֵּ֥שֶׁב…וַ⁠יֵּ֥שֶׁב1

In Hebrew, these are the same verb. In English, they could be translated as “settle,” which can mean to dwell in a certain place, but it can also mean to lower ones body into a seated position. This could mean: (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.

132EXO216shg5writing-backgroundוּ⁠לְ⁠כֹהֵ֥ן מִדְיָ֖ן שֶׁ֣בַע בָּנ֑וֹת1Now the priest of Midian had seven daughters

This sentence is background information. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

133EXO216pjzcwriting-neweventוּ⁠לְ⁠כֹהֵ֥ן מִדְיָ֖ן שֶׁ֣בַע בָּנ֑וֹת1

This sentence marks a scene 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 before that, as is done in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

134EXO216cfe5writing-participantsבָּנ֑וֹת1

The daughters are new participants. Use the natural form in your language for introducing new characters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

135EXO216sm8ffigs-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 motion word. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

136EXO216esdmtranslate-numbersשֶׁ֣בַע1

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

137EXO216i2jhוַ⁠תִּדְלֶ֗נָה1drew water

This means that they brought up water from a well.

138EXO216g1e6translate-unknownהָ֣⁠רְהָטִ֔ים1troughs

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

139EXO217k5ycfigs-goוַ⁠יָּבֹ֥אוּ1

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

140EXO217zksvwriting-participantsהָ⁠רֹעִ֖ים1

These are new characters only seen briefly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

141EXO217z17mgrammar-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]])

142EXO218omzvfigs-goוַ⁠תָּבֹ֕אנָה1

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

143EXO218t78ytranslate-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]])

144EXO218juquwriting-participantsרְעוּאֵ֖ל1

The priest of Midian was mentioned in v. 16 in a background statement but is a new character starting here. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new character. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

145EXO218lukbfigs-quotationsוַ⁠יֹּ֕אמֶר מַדּ֛וּעַ מִהַרְתֶּ֥ן בֹּ֖א הַ⁠יּֽוֹם1

If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “and he asked how they were able to return so quickly that day” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

146EXO218hq6yfigs-goבֹּ֖א1

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

147EXO219w57eאִ֣ישׁ מִצְרִ֔י1

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

148EXO219hvb4figs-metonymyמִ⁠יַּ֣ד1

Here, hand figuratively refers to the power, control, or actions of the shepherds. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternative translation: “from the strength of” or “from the harm of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

149EXO219a7v2figs-idiomדָּלֹ֤ה דָלָה֙1

This expresses surprise or emphasizes the magnitude of Moses act of kindness to the women. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression from your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

150EXO220x9ybfigs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You should not have left this man at the well!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

151EXO220mb8wwriting-pronounsל֖⁠וֹ1

Here, him refers to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

152EXO220hal8figs-synecdocheלָֽחֶם1

Here, bread is used to refer to food in general. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or plain language. Alternative translation: “food” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

153EXO221zvr1וַ⁠יּ֥וֹאֶל מֹשֶׁ֖ה לָ⁠שֶׁ֣בֶת אֶת־הָ⁠אִ֑ישׁ1Moses agreed to stay with the man

Alternate translation: “Moses agreed to live with Reuel”

154EXO221y3q7translate-namesצִפֹּרָ֥ה1Zipporah

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

155EXO222l3xgfigs-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]])

156EXO222f76mtranslate-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]])

157EXO222q7d8גֵּ֣ר הָיִ֔יתִי בְּ⁠אֶ֖רֶץ נָכְרִיָּֽה1resident in a foreign land

Alternate translation: “stranger in a foreign land”

158EXO223fjktwriting-neweventוַ⁠יְהִי֩ בַ⁠יָּמִ֨ים הָֽ⁠רַבִּ֜ים הָ⁠הֵ֗ם וַ⁠יָּ֨מָת֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ מִצְרַ֔יִם1

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. The king of Egypt died.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

159EXO223ym88writing-background0

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. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

160EXO223csg2וַ⁠יֵּאָנְח֧וּ1groaned

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

161EXO223x84afigs-personificationוַ⁠תַּ֧עַל שַׁוְעָתָ֛⁠ם אֶל־הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֖ים1their pleas went up to God

The plea of the Israelites are spoken of as if they were a person and were able to travel up to where God is. If this might be confusing for your readers, you could express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “and God heard their pleading” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

162EXO224sja4figs-idiomוַ⁠יִּזְכֹּ֤ר אֱלֹהִים֙1God called to mind his covenant

This a common biblical way of saying that God thought about what He had promised. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression from your language. Alternate translation: “and God recalled” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

163EXO3intron6ze0

Exodus 03 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

This chapter is one conversation in which Yahweh begins to commission and send Moses to rescue the Israelites.

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 can 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 the personal name of God, which he revealed to Moses. Yahweh is probably related to the phrase “I am” which he tells Moses in verse 14. 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]])

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.

164EXO31gqvhwriting-neweventוּ⁠מֹשֶׁ֗ה הָיָ֥ה רֹעֶ֛ה1

This phrase brings the story focus back to Midian and Moses. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

165EXO31oqcrwriting-background0

Verse 1 provides immediate background context, setting the scene for Moses interaction with Yahweh. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

166EXO31l7x6figs-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]])

167EXO31v97tfigs-goוַ⁠יָּבֹ֛א אֶל1

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

168EXO31p27sfigs-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 somehow associated with Gods presence or worship before Moses went there with the flock. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

169EXO32p0ntוַ֠⁠יֵּרָא 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.

170EXO32x5ciיְהֹוָ֥ה1Yahweh

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.

171EXO32d3tfgrammar-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 what follows is a surprise. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

172EXO32jmz0figs-metonymyאֻכָּֽל1

Here, being consumed means being eaten completely until gone. In the case of fire, this is a metonym for burning completely until gone. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “destroyed by the fire” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

173EXO33fpwwfigs-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. There may be other quotations in this chapter; they will be marked by the same punctuation, but they will not have their own notes unless there is something unique about them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

174EXO33jbuefigs-abstractnounsאֶת־הַ⁠מַּרְאֶ֥ה הַ⁠גָּדֹ֖ל1

If your language does not use an abstract noun for something strange that someone sees, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun sight in another way. Alternate translation: “unusual thing that I see” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

175EXO34ue8vיְהוָ֖ה…אֱלֹהִ֜ים1

These terms both refer to the same being, since Gods name is Yahweh.

176EXO35prv9grammar-connect-logic-resultכִּ֣י 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. If it would be more natural in your language, you could 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]])

177EXO36sxk8אָנֹכִי֙ 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”

178EXO36fgymfigs-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 the direct quotation 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]])

179EXO36l5syאָבִ֔י⁠ךָ1your father

This could mean (1) “your father,” if it means “your father,” then it refers to Moses own father (2) “your ancestor,” if it means “your ancestor,” then the phrases following it clarify who “your father” refers to: it refers to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. In most cases, it will be best to translate it as “your father,” i.e. Amram, Moses father.

180EXO36lfbbgrammar-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 If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]] and Exodus 33:20)

181EXO37nl33figs-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]])

182EXO37xoz0figs-idiomרָאֹ֥ה רָאִ֛יתִי1

The Hebrew practice of verb repetition for intensification cannot be directly translated into English. Here, “see” is repeated in Hebrew. This expresses the intensity, certainty, or clarity of Yahwehs having seen how his people were suffering. Use a natural form of strengthening a verb from your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

183EXO37tpk0figs-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]])

184EXO37nbftfigs-abstractnounsעֳנִ֥י עַמִּ֖⁠י אֲשֶׁ֣ר בְּ⁠מִצְרָ֑יִם1

If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun affliction in another way. Alternate translation: “how my people who are in Egypt are afflicted” or “how the Egyptians afflict my people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

185EXO37p3txfigs-metonymyמִ⁠פְּנֵ֣י נֹֽגְשָׂ֔י⁠ו1

Here, 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]])

186EXO37xx7rנֹֽגְשָׂ֔י⁠ו1taskmasters

Alternate translation: “his oppressors”

187EXO37ofxtכִּ֥י1

Here, surely is intensifying the expression of Yahwehs knowledge. Your translation should express Yahwehs knowing with certainty or strength.

188EXO37mfn2grammar-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/grammar-collectivenouns]])

189EXO37hkcjfigs-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 deeply distressed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

190EXO37ui28figs-explicitמַכְאֹבָֽי⁠ו1

It is implied that they are deeply distressed because they are treated badly as slaves. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “his anguish from his slavery” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

191EXO37zth8figs-abstractnounsמַכְאֹבָֽי⁠ו1

If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun anguish in another way. Alternate translation: “how distressed they are” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

192EXO38a1yvgrammar-connect-logic-result0

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]])

193EXO38xy36figs-goוָ⁠אֵרֵ֞ד1

God is figuratively expressing that he is descending from heaven to earth to intervene. God is always everywhere, but this phrase means that 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]])

194EXO38nahbgrammar-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/grammar-collectivenouns]])

195EXO38bi4efigs-metaphorמִ⁠יַּ֣ד1

Someones hand is a common Biblical metaphor for power and control. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

196EXO38djbzfigs-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]])

197EXO38mqypfigs-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 milk and honeyare in parallel with each other. Each of these levels is meant to reinforce and expand upon 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]])

198EXO38xs87figs-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. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. The next note explains further. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

199EXO38pxy8figs-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]])

200EXO38dtz9זָבַ֥ת1flowing with

Alternate translation: “full of” or “with an abundance of”

201EXO38q94ifigs-metonymyחָלָ֖ב1milk

Since milk comes from cows and goats, this represents food produced by livestock. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “food from livestock” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

202EXO38l1asfigs-metonymyוּ⁠דְבָ֑שׁ1honey

Since honey is produced from flowers, this represents food from crops. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “food from crops” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

203EXO39a2kffigs-parallelism0

This verse parallels verse 7. Yahweh is restating that the Israelites plight has gotten his attention. This creates emphasis and connection to what Yahweh will do with what Moses will do as Yahwehs appointed leader. If this repetition would confuse your readers consider a paragraph break at the start of this verse to separate the two parallel statements or use some other strategy of emphasis and connection that is natural in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

204EXO39tp2vfigs-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]])

205EXO39uup9figs-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. If this might be confusing for your readers, you could express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “I have heard the cries of the people of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

206EXO39gwoufigs-abstractnounsרָאִ֨יתִי֙ אֶת־הַ⁠לַּ֔חַץ אֲשֶׁ֥ר מִצְרַ֖יִם לֹחֲצִ֥ים אֹתָֽ⁠ם1

If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun oppression in another way. Alternate translation: “I have seen how the Egyptians are oppressing them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

207EXO310y4m1grammar-connect-logic-resultוְ⁠עַתָּ֣ה1

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

208EXO311y8crfigs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

209EXO312xugffigs-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]])

210EXO313lqmsgrammar-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]])

211EXO313jq42הִנֵּ֨ה1

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”

212EXO313e03nfigs-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]])

213EXO313m9uyfigs-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]])

214EXO313ru0afigs-metonymyאֱלֹהֵ֥י 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-metonymy]])

215EXO313bkeigrammar-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]])

216EXO314cli8אֶֽהְיֶ֖ה אֲשֶׁ֣ר אֶֽהְיֶ֑ה1God said to Moses, “I AM THAT I AM.”

This is Gods response to Moses 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.”’”

217EXO314b6vkאֶֽהְיֶ֖ה אֲשֶׁ֣ר אֶֽהְיֶ֑ה1I AM THAT I AM

This could mean: (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.

218EXO314s62uאֶֽהְיֶ֖ה…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.”

219EXO314t745וַ⁠יֹּ֗אמֶר1

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

220EXO314vigcfigs-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]])

221EXO315ubw7וַ⁠יֹּאמֶר֩ ע֨וֹד אֱלֹהִ֜ים אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֗ה1

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

222EXO315i6lgfigs-quotemarksאֶל־מֹשֶׁ֗ה1

After this phrase, a direct quotation begins that continues until the end of chapter 3 at verse 22. This section contains four levels of quotations 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]])

223EXO315l962figs-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]])

224EXO315d91kfigs-metonymyאֱלֹהֵ֣י 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-metonymy]])

225EXO315ixcbfigs-merismלְ⁠דֹ֥ר דֹּֽר1

The repetition of generation is indicating “to each and every generation” which figuratively means “for all people at all times.” If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

226EXO316ec3vfigs-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]])

227EXO316usasfigs-metonymyאֱלֹהֵ֤י 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-metonymy]])

228EXO316xqy9אַבְרָהָ֛ם 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.

229EXO316dvszfigs-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]])

230EXO316efhhfigs-idiomפָּקֹ֤ד פָּקַ֨דְתִּי֙1

The word translated attended 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]])

231EXO316p258figs-idiomפָּקֹ֤ד פָּקַ֨דְתִּי֙1

Here, attended is repeated in Hebrew. The Hebrew practice of verb repetition for intensification cannot be directly translated into English. This expresses the intensity, certainty, or clarity of Yahwehs having attended to how his people were suffering. Use a natural form of strengthening a verb from your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

232EXO316fv77figs-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]])

233EXO316q4enfigs-activepassiveהֶ⁠עָשׂ֥וּי1

The focus of this passive is the mistreatment being done to the Israelites, not on who is doing it. In fact, in Egypt further dissociates the actors from this sentence. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language, as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

234EXO316johwfigs-metonymyבְּ⁠מִצְרָֽיִם1

The phrase in Egypt is a metonym for the Egyptian oppressors. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternative translation: “by the Egyptians” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

235EXO317elojfigs-quotemarks0

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]])

236EXO317c54kfigs-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, as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

237EXO317r8mgfigs-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. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression from your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

238EXO317x1o0figs-abstractnounsמֵ⁠עֳנִ֣י1

See how you translated affliction in 3:7. Alternate translation: “from being afflicted” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

239EXO317wyvtfigs-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. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. The next note explains further. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

240EXO317pwn5figs-metaphorאֶ֛רֶץ 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. 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]])

241EXO317za9lזָבַ֥ת1flowing with

Alternate translation: “full of” or “with an abundance of”

242EXO317rtr5figs-metonymyחָלָ֖ב1milk

Since milk comes from cows and goats, this represents food produced by livestock. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “food from livestock” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

243EXO317msf8figs-metonymyוּ⁠דְבָֽשׁ1honey

Since honey is produced from flowers, this represents food from crops. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “food from crops” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

244EXO318cy2zfigs-idiomוְ⁠שָׁמְע֖וּ לְ⁠קֹלֶ֑⁠ךָ1

Listen often means “hear and do/obey.” If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression from your language. Alternative translation: “And they will pay attention to your voice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

245EXO318j24kwriting-pronounsלְ⁠קֹלֶ֑⁠ךָ…אַתָּה֩1They will listen to you

Here, your and you refers to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

246EXO318w742figs-synecdocheלְ⁠קֹלֶ֑⁠ךָ1

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

247EXO318r74ofigs-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]])

248EXO318eep7grammar-collectivenounsיִשְׂרָאֵ֜ל1

Israel is a collective noun that refers to all the Israelites. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternative translation: “the Israelites” or “the Israelite people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

249EXO318ot9rfigs-metonymyמִצְרַ֗יִם1

Here, Egypt refers to the Egyptian nation. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “the Egyptians” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

250EXO318idp7figs-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]])

251EXO318i47ofigs-exclusiveעָלֵ֔י⁠נוּ…נֵֽלֲכָה…וְ⁠נִזְבְּחָ֖ה1

These instances of us are exclusive; they include Moses, the elders, and all the Israelites, but exclude the king of Egypt. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

252EXO318d85btranslate-numbersשְׁלֹ֤שֶׁת1

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

253EXO319qf46figs-metonymyוְ⁠לֹ֖א בְּ⁠יָ֥ד חֲזָקָֽה1unless his hand is forced

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

254EXO320nuzxgrammar-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]])

255EXO320yds5figs-metonymyוְ⁠שָׁלַחְתִּ֤י 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]])

256EXO320dzspfigs-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]])

257EXO320c9a3מִצְרַ֔יִם…בְּ⁠קִרְבּ֑⁠וֹ1

Here, him refers to Egypt as a collective.

258EXO320g0i9figs-abstractnounsנִפְלְאֹתַ֔⁠י1

If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun wonders in another way. Alternate translation: “my amazing acts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

259EXO320sqmtgrammar-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]])

260EXO320ay53writing-pronounsיְשַׁלַּ֥ח1

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

261EXO320awxsfigs-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]])

262EXO321btwcfigs-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]])

263EXO321hfrrfigs-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]])

264EXO321s45uהָֽ⁠עָם־הַ⁠זֶּ֖ה1

Alternate translation: “you”

265EXO321uz3cfigs-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]])

266EXO321wymxfigs-goתֵֽלֵכ֔וּ⁠ן…תֵלְכ֖וּ1

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

267EXO321j9qzfigs-doublenegativesלֹ֥א…רֵיקָֽם1

The double negative, not … emptily is used to mean “full.” If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “[go] with many things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

268EXO321kt7bfigs-litotesלֹ֥א תֵלְכ֖וּ רֵיקָֽם1will not go empty-handed

Here Yahweh uses a figure of speech that expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If this is confusing in your language, you can express the meaning positively. 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]])

269EXO322w2avוּ⁠מִ⁠גָּרַ֣ת בֵּיתָ֔⁠הּ1any women staying in her neighbors houses

The word, 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 which 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.

270EXO322fmfufigs-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]])

271EXO322h38jfigs-quotemarksמִצְרָֽיִם1

After this phrase, the direct quote of Yahwehs word which started 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]])

272EXO4introkap50

Exodus 04 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

  • v. 1-17: Moses hesitates to obey so Yahweh gives Moses signs to prove his commission
  • v. 18-28: Moses goes back to Egypt
  • v. 29-31: Moses and Aaron meet with the Israelite leaders and tell them what Yahweh said

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 locations.

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 verses 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

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 how Pharaoh has 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]])

273EXO41j4ygוַ⁠יַּ֤עַן 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”

274EXO41b3xvfigs-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.There may be other quotations in this chapter; they will be marked by the same punctuation, but they will not have their own notes unless there is something unique about them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

275EXO41pq8xfigs-metonymyבְּ⁠קֹלִ֑⁠י1

See 3:18. Alternate translation: “to what I say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

276EXO41netofigs-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]])

277EXO41fu2xוְ⁠הֵן֙1

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.”

278EXO42qmvkwriting-pronounsאֵלָ֛י⁠ו…וַ⁠יֹּ֖אמֶר1

Here, him and he refer to Moses. Alternate translation: “to Moses … And Moses said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

279EXO43zycdfigs-metonymyמִ⁠פָּנָֽי⁠ו1

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

280EXO44g6bkוֶ⁠אֱחֹ֖ז בִּ⁠זְנָב֑⁠וֹ1take it by the tail

Alternate translation: “and pick it up by the tail” or “and grasp it by the tail”

281EXO44bzmpgrammar-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 translate the quotation resumption. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])

282EXO44m86nוַ⁠יְהִ֥י לְ⁠מַטֶּ֖ה1became a staff

Alternate translation: “and it turned into a rod” or “and it changed into a staff”

283EXO45l4tnfigs-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]])

284EXO45m4fkfigs-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. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the context. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

285EXO45zbfrwriting-pronounsיַאֲמִ֔ינוּ…אֲבֹתָ֑⁠ם1

Here, them and their 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-pronouns]])

286EXO45oqi5writing-pronounsאֵלֶ֛י⁠ךָ1

Here, you refers to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

287EXO45jr8mאֱלֹהֵ֣י 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.

288EXO46ep52figs-exclamationsוְ⁠הִנֵּ֥ה1behold

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

289EXO46pw7gfigs-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: “that made it look white like wool” or “that made it look white like the sand on the beach” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

290EXO47prr9figs-exclamationsוְ⁠הִנֵּה1

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

291EXO48wellfigs-personificationוְ⁠לֹ֣א יִשְׁמְע֔וּ לְ⁠קֹ֖ל הָ⁠אֹ֣ת הָ⁠רִאשׁ֑וֹן וְ⁠הֶֽאֱמִ֔ינוּ לְ⁠קֹ֖ל הָ⁠אֹ֥ת הָ⁠אַחֲרֽוֹן1

Here each sign is spoken of as if it had a voice with which it could speak. If this might be confusing for your readers, you could express this meaning in a non-figurative 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]])

292EXO48gxlgwriting-pronounsיַאֲמִ֣ינוּ…יִשְׁמְע֔וּ…וְ⁠הֶֽאֱמִ֔ינוּ1

Here, they refers 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-pronouns]])

293EXO48lsb3לֹ֣א יַאֲמִ֣ינוּ…וְ⁠הֶֽאֱמִ֔ינוּ1pay attention

Alternate translation: “they do not acknowledge … then they will acknowledge” or “they do not accept … then they will accept”

294EXO49q82rwriting-pronounsיַאֲמִ֡ינוּ…יִשְׁמְעוּ⁠ן֙1

Here, they refers 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-pronouns]])

295EXO49jsvbfigs-metonymyלְ⁠קֹלֶ֔⁠ךָ1

See 3:18. Alternate translation: “to what you say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

296EXO410t8i9בִּ֣י1

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

297EXO410w12aלֹא֩ אִ֨ישׁ דְּבָרִ֜ים אָנֹ֗כִי גַּ֤ם מִ⁠תְּמוֹל֙ גַּ֣ם מִ⁠שִּׁלְשֹׁ֔ם1have never been eloquent

Alternate translation: “I have never been an excellent speaker, not now, not before”

298EXO410opesאִ֨ישׁ דְּבָרִ֜ים1

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

299EXO410pk0lfigs-merismגַּ֤ם מִ⁠תְּמוֹל֙ גַּ֣ם מִ⁠שִּׁלְשֹׁ֔ם1

These phrases simply mean “in the past.” If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

300EXO410wsl4figs-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). If this is confusing in your language, you could make who he means plain. Alternate translation: “me, your servant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

301EXO410bv64figs-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. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “not good at public speaking”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

302EXO410zm3yfigs-metonymyלָשׁ֖וֹן1slow of tongue

Here, tongue refers to Moses ability to speak. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “speech” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

303EXO411ks2mfigs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Is it not I, Yahweh, who created the human mouth and the ability to speak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

304EXO411e1y6figs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “make people able to speak or hear or to see or to be blind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

305EXO411uq7jfigs-rquestionהֲ⁠לֹ֥א אָנֹכִ֖י יְהוָֽה1Is it not I, Yahweh?

Yahweh uses this question to emphasize that he alone makes these decisions. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “I, Yahweh, am the one who does this!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

306EXO412kkr1figs-metonymyוְ⁠אָנֹכִי֙ אֶֽהְיֶ֣ה עִם־פִּ֔י⁠ךָ1I will be with your mouth

Here, mouth refers to Moses ability to speak. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “I will give you the ability to speak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

307EXO413brerבִּ֣י1

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”

308EXO413s8nlשְֽׁלַֽח־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.

309EXO413y4a7figs-synecdocheבְּ⁠יַד1

This phrase means “by a person.” The figure is of a person taking Yahwehs message in his hand to the Israelites and Pharaoh. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could translate the meaning plainly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

310EXO414uy2vfigs-idiomוַ⁠יִּֽחַר־אַ֨ף יְהוָ֜ה1

This means that Yahweh is angry. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh became angry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

311EXO414ifaxwriting-pronounsוַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר֙1

Here, he refers to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “and Yahweh said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

312EXO414okkofigs-rquestionהֲ⁠לֹ֨א אַהֲרֹ֤ן אָחִ֨י⁠ךָ֙ הַ⁠לֵּוִ֔י1

Yahweh uses this rhetorical question to suggest an alternative to Moses. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternative translation: “I know you have a brother, Aaron the Levite.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

313EXO414e0jstranslate-kinshipאָחִ֨י⁠ךָ֙1

Aaron is older than Moses. If your language uses a different term for the sibling relationship based on gender and age order, choose the appropriate one. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship]])

314EXO414y5edfigs-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]])

315EXO414c51yהִנֵּה1

Here, 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.

316EXO414ettpfigs-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]])

317EXO414tfsagrammar-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]])

318EXO414ew4hfigs-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]])

319EXO415u97ffigs-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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “the message that he is to repeat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

320EXO415q9cffigs-metonymyוְ⁠אָנֹכִ֗י אֶֽהְיֶ֤ה עִם־פִּ֨י⁠ךָ֙ וְ⁠עִם־פִּ֔י⁠הוּ1I will be with your mouth

The word mouth here represents Moses and Aarons choice of words. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. 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]])

321EXO415v57xfigs-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]])

322EXO416mnspfigs-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. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent comparison or express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “the one to say what you tell him to say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

323EXO416gn5vfigs-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. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent comparison or express this meaning in a non-figurative way. 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]])

324EXO417hm47figs-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 verse 2 and with which God told him to do a miracle in verses 3-4. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

325EXO418j2ixwriting-participantsיֶ֣תֶר1

Jethro is reintroduced as a participant in the narrative here. Use the natural form in your language for reintroducing a character.(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

326EXO418cbopfigs-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]])

327EXO418b6mftranslate-kinshipחֹֽתְנ֗⁠וֹ1father-in-law

This refers to the father of Moses wife. If your language uses a different term for the husbands or wifes father use the one for wifes father. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship]])

328EXO418wlitwriting-pronounsוַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר1

Here, he refers to Moses. Alternate translation: “and Moses said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

329EXO418g1h1writing-pronounsל⁠וֹ֙1

Here, him refers to Jethro. Alternate translation: “to Jethro” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

330EXO418urt0figs-metonymyאַחַ֣⁠י1

Here the term brothers refers more broadly to all of Moses people group, those he is related to. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “my relatives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

331EXO418gq2gfigs-idiomוְ⁠אֶרְאֶ֖ה הַ⁠עוֹדָ֣⁠ם חַיִּ֑ים1

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. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

332EXO418yay3translate-blessingלֵ֥ךְ 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/translate-blessing]])

333EXO419wwr8grammar-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]])

334EXO419clfjהַֽ⁠מְבַקְשִׁ֖ים אֶת־נַפְשֶֽׁ⁠ךָ1

This means they were seeking to end his life, that is, to kill him.

335EXO420fua6figs-extrainfoבָּנָ֗י⁠ו1

Moses second son is not introduced until 18:4 but had already been born before they left Midian. It is not necessary to make this explicit here, if it would confuse your readers you could add a footnote. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo]])

336EXO420zi5mfigs-123personוַ⁠יָּ֖שָׁב אַ֣רְצָ⁠ה מִצְרָ֑יִם1

It is clear from verse 24 and 25 that Moses family went with him. If this is confusing in your language, you may need to change from he to “they” returned. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

337EXO420a1s5grammar-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 it may be better to make a translation similar to the UST, which only commits to the family starting on the way to Egypt. This option has the further benefit of allowing for the several events that happen before Moses gets to Egypt. The ULTs toward is another way of giving space in the translation for the next several events. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])

338EXO420f26lfigs-explicitמַטֵּ֥ה הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֖ים1

The phrase the staff of God refers to the staff that God told Moses to take with him in verse 17. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

339EXO420m4ujfigs-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, first God told Moses to do something with the staff, then 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]])

340EXO421lva8figs-quotemarksבְּ⁠לֶכְתְּ⁠ךָ֙1

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]])

341EXO421oajfרְאֵ֗ה1

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

342EXO421paosfigs-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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternative translation: “all the wonders I have authorized you to perform” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

343EXO421kdsbfigs-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]])

344EXO421ovmagrammar-connect-logic-contrastוַ⁠אֲנִי֙ אֲחַזֵּ֣ק1

Referring to himself in the opening of this sentence serves to emphasize a contrast between what might normally be expected and what will actually 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 Pharaoh will do. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

345EXO421uvohfigs-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]])

346EXO421uudzgrammar-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]])

347EXO422ftdeכֹּ֚ה אָמַ֣ר יְהוָ֔ה1

This is the first of hundreds of occurrences throughout the Old Testament of a standard phrase, Thus says Yahweh, 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.

348EXO422teyyfigs-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]])

349EXO422kud7figs-quotemarksבְּנִ֥⁠י בְכֹרִ֖⁠י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃1

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]])

350EXO422gr2dfigs-metaphorבְּנִ֥⁠י1

Yahweh expresses his affection for the Israelites by calling them his son. Some languages may need to change the metaphor here into a simile. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

351EXO422pt4ngrammar-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/grammar-collectivenouns]])

352EXO422nbn7figs-metonymyיִשְׂרָאֵֽל1

The Israelite nation is often referred to simply by the name of the patriarch. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “The Israelites are” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

353EXO423syarfigs-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]])

354EXO423yyuofigs-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]])

355EXO423k7mhfigs-metaphorבְּנִ⁠י֙1you have refused to let him go

Yahweh continues to metaphorically speak of Israel as my son. See how you translated it in the previous verse. Alternative translation: “the Israelite nation, which is like a son to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

356EXO423u825figs-pronounsוְ⁠יַֽעַבְדֵ֔⁠נִי…לְ⁠שַׁלְּח֑⁠וֹ1

The pronouns he and him agree with “son.” What you use may depend on how you translated son in the previous verse. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])

357EXO423ot2bהִנֵּה֙1

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

358EXO423re11בִּנְ⁠ךָ֖1I will certainly kill your son, your firstborn

Here, your son refers to the actual son of Pharaoh.

359EXO423ubcwfigs-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]])

360EXO424sp6hwriting-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]])

361EXO424p820writing-pronounsוַ⁠יִּפְגְּשֵׁ֣⁠הוּ…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-pronouns]])

362EXO424qeo5writing-pronounsוַ⁠יְבַקֵּ֖שׁ1

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

363EXO425m1latranslate-namesצִפֹּרָ֜ה1Zipporah

Zipporah is the name of Moses wife. See how you translated it in 2:21. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

364EXO425sftgwriting-participantsצִפֹּרָ֜ה1

Zipporah is introduced here as a new character. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new character. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

365EXO425a36htranslate-unknownצֹ֗ר1flint knife

This was a flake or a sharp piece of a hard gray rock that was used as a knife.. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

366EXO425nkxntranslate-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]])

367EXO425l6srfigs-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]])

368EXO425b2t3figs-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]])

369EXO426ceqkgrammar-connect-logic-resultוַ⁠יִּ֖רֶף1

God relented 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]])

370EXO426o4ztwriting-pronounsוַ⁠יִּ֖רֶף1

Here, he refers to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “Yahweh relented” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

371EXO426k136writing-pronounsמִמֶּ֑⁠נּוּ1

As in 4:24, him could refer to 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-pronouns]])

372EXO426r8hjfigs-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. Use a form from your language for quoting a portion of what someone previously said. If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this as an indirect quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

373EXO426abmgfigs-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]])

374EXO427xk6bwriting-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]])

375EXO427qxpcwriting-participantsאַהֲרֹ֔ן1

Aaron is introduced as a new participant. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new character. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

376EXO427wy4nfigs-possessionבְּ⁠הַ֥ר הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֖ים1at the mountain of God

See how you translated this in 3:1. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

377EXO427tfn2translate-symactionוַ⁠יִּשַּׁק1

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

378EXO428ad9xשְׁלָח֑⁠וֹ…צִוָּֽ⁠הוּ1

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

379EXO428b429writing-pronounsשְׁלָח֑⁠וֹ…צִוָּֽ⁠הוּ1he had sent him to say

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

380EXO429y8o3writing-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]])

381EXO430bm2xfigs-metonymyלְ⁠עֵינֵ֥י הָ⁠עָֽם1in the sight of the people

Here, before the eyes means he did the signs so they could see them. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternative translation: “in their sight” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

382EXO430x1v3הָ⁠עָֽם1

Context suggests that people refers to the leaders gathered in 4:29.

383EXO431glp2הָ⁠עָ֑ם1

Context suggests that people refers to the leaders gathered in 4:29.

384EXO431q1erפָקַ֨ד…בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל1had observed the Israelites

Alternate translation: “saw the Israelites” or “was concerned about the Israelites”

385EXO431g83atranslate-symactionוַֽ⁠יִּקְּד֖וּ וַ⁠יִּֽשְׁתַּחֲוּֽוּ1they bowed their heads

This action was an expression of thankful worship. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternative translations: “they bowed their heads in awe” or “they bowed down low in reverence.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

386EXO5introkea20

Exodus 05 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

  • v. 1-5: Moses gives Pharaoh Yahwehs message
  • v. 6-21: Pharaoh makes the Israelites work harder
  • v. 22-23: Moses asks Yahweh why things went badly
387EXO51q0zvwriting-neweventוְ⁠אַחַ֗ר בָּ֚אוּ מֹשֶׁ֣ה וְ⁠אַהֲרֹ֔ן וַ⁠יֹּאמְר֖וּ אֶל־פַּרְעֹ֑ה1

The time phrase, and afterward, marks a transition in the narrative. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. Alternative translation: “After that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

388EXO51q9kngrammar-connect-time-sequentialוְ⁠אַחַ֗ר בָּ֚אוּ מֹשֶׁ֣ה וְ⁠אַהֲרֹ֔ן וַ⁠יֹּאמְר֖וּ אֶל־פַּרְעֹ֑ה1After these things happened

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

389EXO51cudxfigs-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]])

390EXO51tsnvwriting-participantsפַּרְעֹ֑ה1

Pharaoh is reintroduced as a participant in the narrative for the first time since chapter two. Use the natural form in your language for reintroducing a character. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

391EXO51jarmfigs-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. There is a second-level quotation fully contained within this portion which is addressed elsewhere. There may be other quotations in this chapter; they will be marked by the same punctuation, but they will not have their own notes unless there is something unique about them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

392EXO51lu3iכֹּֽה־אָמַ֤ר יְהוָה֙1

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

393EXO51u2vtוְ⁠יָחֹ֥גּוּ1festival for me

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

394EXO52v4c1grammar-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]])

395EXO52lqwtמִ֤י 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 god. 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 revealed his name to Moses).

396EXO52wpffgrammar-collectivenounsיִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל…יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל1

Here the nation is spoken of as an individual. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternative translation: “the nation of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

397EXO52c653figs-metonymyבְּ⁠קֹל֔⁠וֹ1listen to his voice

Here, his voice represent the words God spoke. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “to what he says” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

398EXO52ma6bוְ⁠גַ֥ם1

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

399EXO53dt39figs-123personוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמְר֔וּ1

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/figs-123person]])

400EXO53y9ipאֱלֹהֵ֥י הָ⁠עִבְרִ֖ים1God of the Hebrews

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

401EXO53kcljfigs-exclusiveעָלֵ֑י⁠נוּ נֵ֣לֲכָה…וְ⁠נִזְבְּחָה֙…יִפְגָּעֵ֔⁠נוּ1

Here, us (or “we” in UST) refers to the Hebrew people (the Israelites). It excludes Pharaoh and his people. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

402EXO53gfs5figs-metonymyבֶ⁠חָֽרֶב1or with the sword

Here, sword represents war or an attack by enemies. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “cause our enemies to attack us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

403EXO54kl1ifigs-rquestionלָ֚⁠מָּה מֹשֶׁ֣ה וְ⁠אַהֲרֹ֔ן תַּפְרִ֥יעוּ אֶת־הָ⁠עָ֖ם מִ⁠מַּֽעֲשָׂ֑י⁠ו1why are you taking the people from their work?

Pharaoh uses this rhetorical question to express his anger toward Moses and Aaron for taking the Israelites away from their work. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Stop distracting the people from doing their work!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

404EXO54fiw9figs-youdualלְכ֖וּ 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]])

405EXO55xm4zgrammar-connect-words-phrasesוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר 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. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])

406EXO55nqbefigs-asideוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר פַּרְעֹ֔ה הֵן־רַבִּ֥ים עַתָּ֖ה עַ֣ם הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ וְ⁠הִשְׁבַּתֶּ֥ם אֹתָ֖⁠ם מִ⁠סִּבְלֹתָֽ⁠ם1

This statement by Pharaoh may have been him commenting to himself, or he may have only thought this statement silently; either way, it led to his next actions. If this would be confusing in your language, consider stating it in a way that clarifies that his statement or thoughts here impacted his next actions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-aside]])

407EXO55todiהֵן1

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

408EXO55c53kfigs-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 if not, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

409EXO56ar9mוַ⁠יְצַ֥ו פַּרְעֹ֖ה…אֶת־הַ⁠נֹּגְשִׂ֣ים בָּ⁠עָ֔ם וְ⁠אֶת־שֹׁטְרָ֖י⁠ו לֵ⁠אמֹֽר1

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: “And … Pharaoh gave an order to the taskmasters among the people and officers. He said,”

410EXO56zd4mהַ⁠נֹּגְשִׂ֣ים1taskmasters

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”

411EXO56gsdxשֹׁטְרָ֖י⁠ו1

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

412EXO56dxihלֵ⁠אמֹֽר1

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

413EXO57k6iofigs-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]])

414EXO57p9nxfigs-idiomכִּ⁠תְמ֣וֹל שִׁלְשֹׁ֑ם1you must no longer give

This is a Hebrew idiom meaning “in the past.” If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternative translation: “as you used to do” or “as was done previously” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

415EXO58izkffigs-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]])

416EXO58ro25translate-unknownהַ⁠לְּבֵנִ֜ים1

Bricks are blocks made of clay or mud with straw in them. They are hardened in the sun or in another manner before they are used for building. See how you translated in 1:14. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

417EXO58dlzxfigs-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]])

418EXO59xca1figs-idiomוְ⁠אַל־יִשְׁע֖וּ בְּ⁠דִבְרֵי־שָֽׁקֶר1

Here words are spoken of as if they could be looked upon. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternative translation: “and not listen to words that are lies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

419EXO510ozznwriting-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]])

420EXO510x4biנֹגְשֵׂ֤י1taskmasters

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

421EXO510zvxxכֹּ֚ה אָמַ֣ר פַּרְעֹ֔ה1

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

422EXO510c12sfigs-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]])

423EXO510mkomfigs-quotesinquotesאֵינֶ֛⁠נִּי1

This is 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]])

424EXO510ad73grammar-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]])

425EXO510si2efigs-metonymyאֵינֶ֛⁠נִּי נֹתֵ֥ן לָ⁠כֶ֖ם תֶּֽבֶן1

Pharaoh uses I to refer to his ownership and commands. Pharaoh does not physically give the Israelites straw. Rather, he had commanded his servants to take straw that belonged to Pharaoh and give it to the Israelites. Now he told his servants to stop providing straw. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “My servants will no longer give you my straw” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

426EXO510gb4dfigs-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]])

427EXO511ewg6grammar-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 the previous verse. 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]])

428EXO511xe4ifigs-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]])

429EXO511w918figs-rpronounsאַתֶּ֗ם…לָ⁠כֶם֙1You yourselves must go

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

430EXO511g5vbfigs-doublenegativesכִּ֣י אֵ֥ין נִגְרָ֛ע מֵ⁠עֲבֹדַתְ⁠כֶ֖ם דָּבָֽר1your workload will not be reduced

If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “for you must continue to make the same number of bricks as before” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

431EXO512s9dkfigs-hyperboleבְּ⁠כָל־אֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרָ֑יִם1throughout all the land of Egypt

This is a generalization used to show the extra effort Israel made to meet Pharaohs demands. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that means many places. Alternate translation: “to many places throughout Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

432EXO512q7y7translate-unknownקַ֖שׁ1stubble

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

433EXO513th6xוְ⁠הַ⁠נֹּגְשִׂ֖ים1taskmasters

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

434EXO513ikkfwriting-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]])

435EXO513a5jaדְּבַר־י֣וֹם בְּ⁠יוֹמ֔⁠וֹ1

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

436EXO514h4uoנֹגְשֵׂ֥י1

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

437EXO514unbcfigs-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 does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “And the taskmasters beat the officers of the sons of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

438EXO514eq22figs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. 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]])

439EXO514oh6ofigs-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. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

440EXO514emq7figs-synecdocheלֹא֩ כִלִּיתֶ֨ם 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. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could translate the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “have your teams not finished their required” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

441EXO514liz8figs-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]])

442EXO514zklgגַּם־תְּמ֖וֹל גַּם־הַ⁠יּֽוֹם1

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

443EXO515bk9hwriting-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]])

444EXO515thljfigs-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]])

445EXO515m2nzfigs-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]])

446EXO516yeqlfigs-activepassiveתֶּ֗בֶן אֵ֤ין נִתָּן֙ לַ⁠עֲבָדֶ֔י⁠ךָ1

The text does not specify who is not giving them straw. From the context, the taskmasters and, by implication, Pharaoh himself are the ones not doing this. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternative translation: “You are not giving your servants any straw.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

447EXO516qp5jfigs-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]])

448EXO516hsa6writing-pronounsאֹמְרִ֥ים1they are still telling us, Make bricks!

Here, they refers to the Egyptian taskmasters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

449EXO516m0goוְ⁠הִנֵּ֧ה1

And behold is used to draw attention to surprising information that follows.

450EXO516xrlyfigs-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 does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

451EXO516ff2kfigs-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]])

452EXO516l7snוְ⁠חָטָ֥את1

Alternate translation: “but it is the wrongdoing of”

453EXO517cw5ufigs-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]])

454EXO517zlkcfigs-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]])

455EXO517a8o2figs-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]])

456EXO518x9j7figs-activepassiveוְ⁠תֶ֖בֶן לֹא־יִנָּתֵ֣ן לָ⁠כֶ֑ם1

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. 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]])

457EXO518z6wtfigs-youdualלָ⁠כֶ֑ם…תִּתֵּֽנּוּ1

Here, you 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]])

458EXO519x6ppgrammar-connect-logic-resultוַ⁠יִּרְא֞וּ שֹֽׁטְרֵ֧י בְנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֛ל אֹתָ֖⁠ם בְּ⁠רָ֣ע לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר לֹא־תִגְרְע֥וּ מִ⁠לִּבְנֵי⁠כֶ֖ם דְּבַר־י֥וֹם בְּ⁠יוֹמֽ⁠וֹ1

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

459EXO519l9d2figs-rpronounsאֹתָ֖⁠ם1when they were told

Here the officers are both the subject and object, because they are thinking about their own situation. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

460EXO519j6f9וַ⁠יִּרְא֞וּ…אֹתָ֖⁠ם בְּ⁠רָ֣ע לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר1

Alternate translation: “knew that they were in trouble, because the king said” or “perceived themselves to be in danger, because the king said”

461EXO520ve3zwriting-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]])

462EXO520s9d2writing-pronounsוַֽ⁠יִּפְגְּעוּ֙…לִ⁠קְרָאתָ֑⁠ם בְּ⁠צֵאתָ֖⁠ם1

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

463EXO521kv0vיֵ֧רֶא יְהוָ֛ה עֲלֵי⁠כֶ֖ם וְ⁠יִשְׁפֹּ֑ט1

The Israelite officers used this form to curse Moses and Aaron.

464EXO521vfitfigs-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]])

465EXO521j3zpfigs-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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “you have caused Pharaoh and his servants to hate us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

466EXO521d592figs-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. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “them a reason to think they would be right” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

467EXO522g4d5figs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “I thought you sent me to rescue them.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

468EXO523v2k2figs-metonymyבִּ⁠שְׁמֶ֔⁠ךָ1to speak to him in your name

Here, in your name indicates that Moses delivers Yahwehs message. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “for you” or “your message for him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

469EXO523fzirfigs-idiomוְ⁠הַצֵּ֥ל לֹא־הִצַּ֖לְתָּ1

In Hebrew, rescued is repeated for emphasis. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

470EXO6introwe5k0

Exodus 06 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

  • v. 1-13, 28-30: Yahweh repeats his commissioning of Moses after the bad events recorded in chapter 5
  • v. 14-27: Genealogy of Moses and Aaron

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, Yahweh reminds Moses of his 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]])

God and his people

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

471EXO61ip5ifigs-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. There may be other quotations in this chapter; they will be marked by the same punctuation, but they will not have their own notes unless there is something unique about them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

472EXO61lu95grammar-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]])

473EXO61ece6figs-metonymyבְ⁠יָ֤ד חֲזָקָה֙…וּ⁠בְ⁠יָ֣ד חֲזָקָ֔ה1my strong hand

Here, hand is a metonym for power. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “by a strong power … and by a strong power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

474EXO61utnnfigs-metonymyבְ⁠יָ֤ד חֲזָקָה֙…וּ⁠בְ⁠יָ֣ד חֲזָקָ֔ה1

It is not clear in the text whose hand is referred to here. The options include: (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. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: (1) “by my strong hand … and by my strong hand” (2) “by his strong hand … and by his strong hand” (3) “by my strong hand … and by his strong hand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

475EXO61vdnofigs-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. If saying the same thing twice might be confusing for your readers, you can combine the phrases into one. 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]])

476EXO61sdonמֵ⁠אַרְצֽ⁠וֹ1

Alternate translation: “from Egypt”

477EXO62wse5writing-neweventוַ⁠יְדַבֵּ֥ר אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֑ה וַ⁠יֹּ֥אמֶר אֵלָ֖י⁠ו1

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]])

478EXO63l81ytranslate-transliterateבְּ⁠אֵ֣ל שַׁדָּ֑י1I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob

El Shaddai 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]])

479EXO63m27pfigs-activepassiveוּ⁠שְׁמִ֣⁠י יְהוָ֔ה לֹ֥א נוֹדַ֖עְתִּי לָ⁠הֶֽם1I was not known to them

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “but they did not know me by my name Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

480EXO63e36zוּ⁠שְׁמִ֣⁠י 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”

481EXO64zxvcfigs-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. To do so, begin a new sentence. Alternate translation: “I said, I will give you the land of Canaan” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

482EXO64gkkcfigs-parallelismאֶ֥רֶץ מְגֻרֵי⁠הֶ֖ם אֲשֶׁר־גָּ֥רוּ בָֽ⁠הּ1

These two phrases mean similar things. If saying the same thing twice might be confusing for your readers, you can combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “the land they lived in as temporary residents” or “the land that was not their home but where they lived as foreigners” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

483EXO65l3ycנַאֲקַת֙1groaning

Here, groaning means making sad sounds because of pain and suffering.

484EXO65aieyוָ⁠אֶזְכֹּ֖ר אֶת־בְּרִיתִֽ⁠י1

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

485EXO66rgh0grammar-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]])

486EXO66yv14לָ⁠כֵ֞ן 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”

487EXO66we3zfigs-youdualאֶתְ⁠כֶ֗ם…אֶתְ⁠כֶ֖ם…אֶתְ⁠כֶם֙1

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]])

488EXO66oqnwfigs-synecdocheמִ⁠תַּ֨חַת֙ סִבְלֹ֣ת מִצְרַ֔יִם1

This refers to all the hard work the Egyptians made the Israelites do. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could translate the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “from the hard work the Egyptians force you to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

489EXO66xyn4figs-metaphorבִּ⁠זְר֣וֹעַ נְטוּיָ֔ה1

Here, arm is a figurative way of referring to Yahwehs power, influence, and capacity for action. Outstretched means that he is using that power. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “by my great strength” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

490EXO66efx1וּ⁠בִ⁠שְׁפָטִ֖ים1

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”

491EXO67o3lbfigs-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]])

492EXO67xsdhfigs-synecdocheמִ⁠תַּ֖חַת סִבְל֥וֹת מִצְרָֽיִם1

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

493EXO68h9hofigs-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]])

494EXO68g9rutranslate-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]])

495EXO68i3vjמוֹרָשָׁ֖ה1

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

496EXO69aaljgrammar-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]])

497EXO69eph2מִ⁠קֹּ֣צֶר 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”

498EXO610tpw4לֵּ⁠אמֹֽר1

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

499EXO611fxf2figs-quotationsוִֽ⁠ישַׁלַּ֥ח אֶת־בְּנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל מֵ⁠אַרְצֽ⁠וֹ1

This statement tells Moses what to discuss with Pharaoh. Some languages may need to covey this information as a direct quotation. Be careful to change the third-person pronouns to second-person pronouns if you do this. Alternate translation: “and say, You must let the sons of Israel go from your land” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

500EXO612h7o0figs-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 the words before the face of Yahweh. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “in the presence of Yahweh” or “boldly to Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

501EXO612iiuiהֵ֤ן1

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.”

502EXO612k7hlfigs-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 in hopes that God would change his mind about using Moses. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Since the Israelites did not listen to me, neither will Pharaoh!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

503EXO612lj51grammar-connect-logic-resultהֵ֤ן 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]])

504EXO612k3brfigs-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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “And I do not speak well” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

505EXO613janrוַ⁠יְצַוֵּ⁠ם֙ 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”

506EXO614hh3zwriting-background0

Verses 14-27 are background information. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

507EXO614h195figs-metonymyרָאשֵׁ֣י1the heads of their fathers houses

Here, heads refers to the original leaders of the clan. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “the ancestors of ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

508EXO614wv89translate-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]])

509EXO615c1nitranslate-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]])

510EXO616k64htranslate-namesלֵוִי֙…גֵּרְשׁ֕וֹן וּ⁠קְהָ֖ת וּ⁠מְרָרִ֑י…לֵוִ֔י1Gershon…Merari

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

511EXO616m36ftranslate-numbersשֶׁ֧בַע וּ⁠שְׁלֹשִׁ֛ים וּ⁠מְאַ֖ת1137 years old

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

512EXO617alm8translate-namesגֵרְשׁ֛וֹן לִבְנִ֥י וְ⁠שִׁמְעִ֖י1Amram…Uzziel

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

513EXO618gzm3translate-namesקְהָ֔ת עַמְרָ֣ם וְ⁠יִצְהָ֔ר וְ⁠חֶבְר֖וֹן וְ⁠עֻזִּיאֵ֑ל…קְהָ֔ת1

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

514EXO618qu41translate-numbersשָׁלֹ֧שׁ וּ⁠שְׁלֹשִׁ֛ים וּ⁠מְאַ֖ת1133 years old

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

515EXO619p5sztranslate-namesמְרָרִ֖י מַחְלִ֣י וּ⁠מוּשִׁ֑י1

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

516EXO620ni1ltranslate-namesעַמְרָ֜ם…אַהֲרֹ֖ן…מֹשֶׁ֑ה…עַמְרָ֔ם1

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

517EXO620o5gbtranslate-namesיוֹכֶ֤בֶד1

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

518EXO620mh02translate-kinshipדֹּֽדָת⁠וֹ֙1

Here the term his aunt specifically means his fathers sister. If your language uses a different term that is specific in this way, translators should use it. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship]])

519EXO620ti6qtranslate-numbersשֶׁ֧בַע וּ⁠שְׁלֹשִׁ֛ים וּ⁠מְאַ֖ת1137 years

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

520EXO621f3yrtranslate-namesיִצְהָ֑ר קֹ֥רַח וָ⁠נֶ֖פֶג וְ⁠זִכְרִֽי׃1Izhar…Korah…Zichri

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

521EXO622n7cltranslate-namesעֻזִּיאֵ֑ל מִֽישָׁאֵ֥ל וְ⁠אֶלְצָפָ֖ן וְ⁠סִתְרִֽי1Uzziel…Mishael…Sithri

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

522EXO623n1xhtranslate-namesאַהֲרֹ֜ן…עַמִּינָדָ֛ב…נַחְשׁ֖וֹן…נָדָב֙…אֲבִיה֔וּא…אֶלְעָזָ֖ר…אִֽיתָמָֽר1Nadab…Ithamar

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

523EXO623kww9translate-namesאֱלִישֶׁ֧בַע1Nadab…Ithamar

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

524EXO624rkz9translate-namesקֹ֔רַח אַסִּ֥יר וְ⁠אֶלְקָנָ֖ה וַ⁠אֲבִיאָסָ֑ף1

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

525EXO624i6o7translate-namesהַ⁠קָּרְחִֽי1

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

526EXO625zvg2translate-namesוְ⁠אֶלְעָזָ֨ר…אַהֲרֹ֜ן…פּֽוּטִיאֵל֙…פִּֽינְחָ֑ס1Phinehas

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

527EXO625fck8figs-metonymyרָאשֵׁ֛י1These were the heads of the fathers houses

Here, heads represents family leaders. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “These were the leaders of the families” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

528EXO626ft6ytranslate-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]])

529EXO627o7xpgrammar-connect-logic-goalלְ⁠הוֹצִ֥יא1

This expresses their goal when they spoke to Pharaoh. Use a natural way in your language for indicating purpose. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])

530EXO628xsslwriting-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]])

531EXO630zyqsfigs-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. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “in the presence of Yahweh” or “boldly to Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

532EXO630nf3wfigs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Behold, I am not a good speaker. Pharaoh will certainly not listen to me!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

533EXO630y4g2הֵ֤ן1

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.”

534EXO630vzhqfigs-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: “I always fail to speak well” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

535EXO7intror9we0

Exodus 07 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

  • v. 1-9: The end of Yahwehs re-sending of Moses and Aaron to Pharaoh
  • v. 10-13: Pharaohs first refusal, the sign of the snakes
  • v. 14-25: First plague: the Nile turns to blood

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 he was not willing to obey Yahwehs instructions.

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
536EXO71r18pfigs-quotemarksמֹשֶׁ֔ה1

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. There may be other quotations in this chapter; they will be marked by the same punctuation, but they will not have their own notes unless there is something unique about them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

537EXO71gy1tרְאֵ֛ה1

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

538EXO71dn1sfigs-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. Alternate translation: “I will cause Pharaoh to consider you as a god” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

539EXO71z163figs-metaphorוְ⁠אַהֲרֹ֥ן אָחִ֖י⁠ךָ יִהְיֶ֥ה נְבִיאֶֽ⁠ךָ1

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

540EXO72l44vtranslate-kinshipאָחִ֨י⁠ךָ֙1

Aaron is older than Moses. If your language uses a different term for the sibling relationship based on gender and age order, choose the appropriate one. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship]])

541EXO72hdwofigs-quotationsוְ⁠שִׁלַּ֥ח אֶת־בְּנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל מֵ⁠אַרְצֽ⁠וֹ1

Some languages may need to make this a direct quotation. If so, be sure to mark it as a second-level quotation, subordinate to Yahwehs main speech. See what you did in 6:25. Alternative translation: “saying, You must let the sons of Israel go from your land” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

542EXO72p9p7מֵ⁠אַרְצֽ⁠וֹ1

Alternate translation: “from Egypt”

543EXO73adsqfigs-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 here. Alternate translation: “will cause Pharaoh to be stubborn” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

544EXO73vtt1figs-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. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine them.(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

545EXO74ar0lfigs-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]])

546EXO74e2kvfigs-metonymyיָדִ֖⁠י1put my hand on

The words my hand represent Gods great power. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “my power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

547EXO74b6h8figs-metonymyבְּ⁠מִצְרָ֑יִם1

Here, on Egypt refers to the land and everything in it, including people, animals, and plants. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

548EXO74niluאֶת־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. Here, armies is the same word translated “hosts” in Exodus 6:26. Alternate translation: “the armies of my Israelite people”

549EXO75cg3ngrammar-connect-logic-resultוְ⁠יָדְע֤וּ מִצְרַ֨יִם֙ כִּֽי־אֲנִ֣י יְהוָ֔ה1

This is the result of God rescuing the Israelites. If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

550EXO75npd6figs-metonymyבִּ⁠נְטֹתִ֥⁠י אֶת־יָדִ֖⁠י עַל1reach out with my hand on

This phrase represents Gods great power. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “when I show my powerful acts against” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

551EXO75dgucgrammar-connect-logic-goalוְ⁠הוֹצֵאתִ֥י אֶת־בְּנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל מִ⁠תּוֹכָֽ⁠ם1

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

552EXO76iii5figs-parallelismוַ⁠יַּ֥עַשׂ…עָשֽׂוּ1

This repetition emphasizes the statement. If saying the same thing twice might be confusing for your readers, you can combine the phrases into one. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

553EXO77liirwriting-background0

This verse contains background information. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

554EXO77g7i5translate-numbersשְׁמֹנִ֣ים…שָׁלֹ֥שׁ וּ⁠שְׁמֹנִ֖ים1Aaron eighty-three years old

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

555EXO77zooufigs-idiomבֶּן־שְׁמֹנִ֣ים שָׁנָ֔ה…בֶּן־שָׁלֹ֥שׁ וּ⁠שְׁמֹנִ֖ים שָׁנָ֑ה1

The phrase a son of, followed by a number and then years, is an idiom that refers to their age. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

556EXO78pwphwriting-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]])

557EXO78p2kfלֵ⁠אמֹֽר1

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.

558EXO79jt9zfigs-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]])

559EXO79r0tpfigs-quotemarksקַ֧ח אֶֽת־מַטְּ⁠ךָ֛ וְ⁠הַשְׁלֵ֥ךְ לִ⁠פְנֵֽי־פַרְעֹ֖ה יְהִ֥י לְ⁠תַנִּֽין1

This is a second-level direct quotation. The second level may either end after Pharaoh or at the end of the verse. 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]])

560EXO79p3xhלֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר1

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.

561EXO79ms5ofigs-youdualאֲלֵ⁠כֶ֤ם…לָ⁠כֶ֖ם1

These pronouns 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]])

562EXO79ogk9figs-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. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternative translation: “so Pharaoh can see it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

563EXO710ehm9figs-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. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternative translation: “where Pharaoh and his servants could see it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

564EXO710kv93עֲבָדָ֖י⁠ו1

Here, his servants does not refer common servants but probably refers to important advisors that would be in the kings court.

565EXO711mqdeלַֽ⁠חֲכָמִ֖ים וְ⁠לַֽ⁠מְכַשְּׁפִ֑ים…חַרְטֻמֵּ֥י1

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

566EXO712m4uwאִ֣ישׁ1swallowed up

Alternate translation: “magician”

567EXO712u6npוַ⁠יִּבְלַ֥ע1swallowed up

Alternate translation: “ate up” or “devoured”

568EXO712m0kwgrammar-connect-logic-contrastוַ⁠יִּבְלַ֥ע מַטֵּֽה־אַהֲרֹ֖ן אֶת־מַטֹּתָֽ⁠ם1

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

569EXO712prnpfigs-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 may not make sense in some languages to speak of the snakes as staffs once they have been transformed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

570EXO713g42ffigs-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]])

571EXO713wekfכַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֖ר 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.

572EXO714d27rfigs-metaphorכָּבֵ֖ד לֵ֣ב פַּרְעֹ֑ה1Pharaohs heart is hard

Now 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 strong vs heavy here. Alternate translation: “Pharaoh is defiant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

573EXO714qiyxwriting-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]])

574EXO715ecbyהִנֵּה֙1

Behold is used to draw attention to information that follows.

575EXO715c5npיֹצֵ֣א הַ⁠מַּ֔יְמָ⁠ה1when he goes out to the water

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

576EXO716yqp7וְ⁠אָמַרְתָּ֣ אֵלָ֗י⁠ו1Say to him

Alternate translation: “Say to Pharaoh”

577EXO716uvxefigs-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]])

578EXO716d16qfigs-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]])

579EXO716cwoxוְ⁠הִנֵּ֥ה1

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

580EXO717j1evכֹּ֚ה אָמַ֣ר יְהוָ֔ה1strike the water

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

581EXO717mywjfigs-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 quotation actually ends before or after Behold, in which case, in the rest of the quote I refers to Moses, not Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

582EXO717jjm3הִנֵּ֨ה1

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”

583EXO718bsjngrammar-connect-logic-resultוּ⁠בָאַ֣שׁ הַ⁠יְאֹ֑ר1

His warning,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]])

584EXO718nx0qgrammar-connect-logic-goalלִ⁠שְׁתּ֥וֹת מַ֖יִם1

This phrase introduces a purpose clause. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternative translation: “in order to find water to drink” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])

585EXO718rgl0figs-rpronounsוְ⁠נִלְא֣וּ מִצְרַ֔יִם1

Here, themselves refers back to the subject (the Egyptians) to indicated that the Egyptians are the object of the verb as well. Use a natural form in your language to show that the Egyptians are both subject and object. Alternate translation: “And the Egyptians will exhaust the Egyptians” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

586EXO718grwhfigs-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]])

587EXO719ysi7figs-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]])

588EXO719wxp2בְּ⁠כָל־אֶ֣רֶץ1throughout all

Alternate translation: “in every part of”

589EXO719msxpfigs-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]])

590EXO720zy18figs-explicitבַּ⁠יְאֹ֔ר1in the river

If it would be helpful to your readers, the name of the river may be made explicit. Alternate translation: “in the Nile River” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

591EXO720mj8vfigs-metonymyלְ⁠עֵינֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֔ה וּ⁠לְ⁠עֵינֵ֖י עֲבָדָ֑י⁠ו1

This means in their sight. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “in the sight of Pharaoh and his servants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

592EXO722n7krtranslate-unknownחַרְטֻמֵּ֥י1

See how you translated this term in 7:11. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

593EXO722qdc7figs-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]])

594EXO722sbicכַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֖ר 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 translated this in 7:13, where the same sentence appears.

595EXO723atdkfigs-idiomוְ⁠לֹא־שָׁ֥ת לִבּ֖⁠וֹ גַּם־לָ⁠זֹֽאת1

This is an idiom meaning Pharaoh did not think about the meaning of the miracle he had just seen. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “And he did not consider what even this meant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

596EXO724m6znfigs-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. However, it does indicate that all the Egyptians who wished to drink water had to dig or had to have dug for them. Alternate translation: “many of the Egyptians” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

597EXO725bn5hwriting-neweventוַ⁠יִּמָּלֵ֖א1

A new scene begins here. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

598EXO725gjybfigs-idiomוַ⁠יִּמָּלֵ֖א שִׁבְעַ֣ת יָמִ֑ים1

This means seven days later. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

599EXO725dg56translate-numbersשִׁבְעַ֣ת1

Alternate translation: “7” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

600EXO8introww1y0

Exodus 08 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

  • v. 1-15: Second plague: frogs
  • v. 16-19: Third plague (first that magicians cannot imitate): gnats
  • v. 20-32: Fourth plague: flies

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 or Aaron or both to raise his hand or staff or both hand and staff. The narrative will then record who will raise his hand or staff or both. The instruction and the action do not always match exactly. God may say raise your hand, and the narrative may say that 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.

601EXO81tf7bfigs-quotationsבֹּ֖א1

This begins a direct quote that continues until the end of verse 4. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

602EXO81v6llכֹּ֚ה אָמַ֣ר יְהוָ֔ה1

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

603EXO81lndcfigs-quotesinquotesכֹּ֚ה1

Here, Thus begins a second-level quotation 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]])

604EXO81kurefigs-quotesinquotesשַׁלַּ֥ח1

This begins a third-level quotation 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]])

605EXO82s7y1figs-ellipsisלְ⁠שַׁלֵּ֑חַ1

What Pharaoh is to let go is not specified, but “my people” or “the Israelites” are the understood object. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “to let the Israelites go” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

606EXO82aei8הִנֵּ֣ה1

Here, 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”

607EXO83vgbyfigs-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]])

608EXO84okokfigs-quotemarks0

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. There may be other quotations in this chapter; they will be marked by the same punctuation, but they will not have their own notes unless there is something unique about them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

609EXO85ley6figs-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]])

610EXO85dqsbfigs-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. In that case, 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]])

611EXO85ejcxיָדְ⁠ךָ֙ בְּ⁠מַטֶּ֔⁠ךָ1

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

612EXO85z19qfigs-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]])

613EXO86wf3afigs-explicitוַ⁠יֵּ֤ט אַהֲרֹן֙1

It is implied that Moses told Yahwehs instructions to Aaron. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

614EXO86nrbqfigs-explicitיָד֔⁠וֹ1

It is implied that Aaron was holding his staff as instructed. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. 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]])

615EXO86j1w7figs-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. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could translate the meaning plainly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

616EXO86drmgfigs-explicitוַ⁠תַּ֨עַל֙1

Verse 3 has specified from where the frogs will come. Here it is implied, but if it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

617EXO86rxzegrammar-collectivenounsהַ⁠צְּפַרְדֵּ֔עַ1

There were so many frogs that the text uses the collective singular. If that would be misunderstood in your language, you may simply use the plural, as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

618EXO86j83dfigs-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). If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

619EXO87n02ytranslate-unknownהַֽ⁠חֲרְטֻמִּ֖ים בְּ⁠לָטֵי⁠הֶ֑ם1

See how you translated these in 7:11. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

620EXO88mhn3וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֨א פַרְעֹ֜ה לְ⁠מֹשֶׁ֣ה וּֽ⁠לְ⁠אַהֲרֹ֗ן1Then Pharaoh called for Moses and Aaron

Alternate translation: “Then Pharaoh sent for Moses and Aaron” or “And the king summoned Moses and Aaron”

621EXO88nfe3figs-explicitוַ⁠יִּקְרָ֨א פַרְעֹ֜ה לְ⁠מֹשֶׁ֣ה וּֽ⁠לְ⁠אַהֲרֹ֗ן וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר֙1

It is implied that Moses and Aaron came to Pharaoh between the time when he called them and when he spoke to them. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “And Pharaoh called for Moses and for Aaron, and after they came, he said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

622EXO88tx3tfigs-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]])

623EXO88qku4figs-hypoוַ⁠אֲשַׁלְּחָה֙ אֶת־הָ⁠עָ֔ם וְ⁠יִזְבְּח֖וּ לַ⁠יהוָֽה1

This promise is conditional on the frogs going away. Use a natural form in your language for hypothetical situations. 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/figs-hypo]])

624EXO89khfdfigs-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]])

625EXO89g0lufigs-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]])

626EXO810ofw3grammar-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. Use a natural way in your language for indicating purpose. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])

627EXO810d1wpfigs-exclusiveאֱלֹהֵֽי⁠נוּ1

Here, our refers to the Israelites God, excluding Pharaoh and the Egyptians. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

628EXO811zwqofigs-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 was 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]])

629EXO812jjv2שָׂ֥ם1

Alternate translation: “Yahweh had set”

630EXO812nxyiwriting-neweventוַ⁠יֵּצֵ֥א מֹשֶׁ֛ה וְ⁠אַהֲרֹ֖ן1

A minor scene shift occurs here. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

631EXO813rwe1figs-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]])

632EXO814a03nחֳמָרִ֣ם חֳמָרִ֑ם1

Literally, the Hebrew says “piles piles.” Repetition is used in Hebrew to emphasize how many or how big the piles of frogs were.

633EXO815lv2nfigs-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]])

634EXO815b47hכַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֖ר דִּבֶּ֥ר יְהוָֽה1just as Yahweh had said that he would do

Alternate translation: “just as Yahweh had said Pharaoh would do”

635EXO816cikqwriting-neweventוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָה֮1

A new scene begins here. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. This is the start of the third plague sequence. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

636EXO816s5ghfigs-quotationsוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָה֮ אֶל־מֹשֶׁה֒ אֱמֹר֙ אֶֽל־אַהֲרֹ֔ן1

Say to Aaron starts 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. See the UST. Alternate translation: “And Yahweh told Moses to tell Aaron” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

637EXO816joxzנְטֵ֣ה 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.

638EXO816kpr5מַטְּ⁠ךָ֔1

This refers to Aarons staff. See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

639EXO816w5eltranslate-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 the one in the next plague (8:21-8:31). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

640EXO817l9wjוַ⁠יֵּט֩ אַהֲרֹ֨ן אֶת־יָד֤⁠וֹ בְ⁠מַטֵּ֨⁠הוּ֙ וַ⁠יַּךְ֙ אֶת־עֲפַ֣ר הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ1

Again, this is one action or motion, but it is described with the two verbs, stretched and struck, that occur throughout this section of plague judgment. See how you translated it in the previous verse.

641EXO817l784יָד֤⁠וֹ בְ⁠מַטֵּ֨⁠הוּ֙1

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

642EXO817nhgttranslate-unknownהַ⁠כִּנָּ֔ם…כִנִּ֖ים1

Again, we do not know what this term refers to for certain, so see how you translated it in 8:16. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

643EXO817grs3figs-gendernotationsבָּ⁠אָדָ֖ם1

Here man includes women and children. Alternate translation: “people” or “mankind” or “humans” See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

644EXO817grg5figs-hyperboleכָּל־עֲפַ֥ר הָ⁠אָ֛רֶץ…בְּ⁠כָל־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם1

This extraordinary statement with the repeated all is used to emphasize the extent and severity of the plague. If this would be unnatural in your language use a natural way to communicate that. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

645EXO818wga0translate-unknownהַ⁠חַרְטֻמִּ֧ים בְּ⁠לָטֵי⁠הֶ֛ם1

See how you translated these in 7:11. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

646EXO818ii85translate-unknownהַ⁠כִּנִּ֖ים…הַ⁠כִּנָּ֔ם1

See how you translated this term in 8:16. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

647EXO818mnj5figs-gendernotationsבָּ⁠אָדָ֖ם1

Here man includes women and children. Alternate translation: “people” or “mankind” or “humans” See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

648EXO819kcs9translate-unknownהַֽ⁠חַרְטֻמִּים֙1

See how you translated this term in 7:11. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

649EXO819lk2kfigs-synecdocheאֶצְבַּ֥ע אֱלֹהִ֖ים הִ֑וא1This is the finger of God

The words “finger of God” represent the power of God. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could translate the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “This is the powerful work of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

650EXO819z1w2figs-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]])

651EXO819rp3iwriting-pronounsאֲלֵ⁠הֶ֔ם1

Here, them may refer to the magicians or to Aaron and Moses. Alternate translation: “to the magicians warning” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

652EXO819gjggכַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֖ר דִּבֶּ֥ר יְהוָֽה1

Some languages will need to place this before the thing that Yahweh predicted, as in the UST.

653EXO820j5n8וְ⁠הִתְיַצֵּב֙ לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֔ה1stand in front of Pharaoh

Alternate translation: “and present yourself to Pharaoh”

654EXO820frfnwriting-neweventוַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר יְהוָ֜ה1

A new scene begins here. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. This is the beginning of the fourth plague sequence. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

655EXO820syv2figs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֔ה1

Here, face figuratively means the presence of a person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

656EXO820vnymהִנֵּ֖ה1

Behold 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”

657EXO820uypafigs-quotationsכֹּ֚ה אָמַ֣ר יְהוָ֔ה1

This phrase opens a direct quote that 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]])

658EXO820eqd2כֹּ֚ה אָמַ֣ר יְהוָ֔ה1Let my people go

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

659EXO820a7l7figs-quotemarksשַׁלַּ֥ח1

This phrase opens a second-level direct quotation 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]])

660EXO820fgl3grammar-connect-logic-goalוְ⁠יַֽעַבְדֻֽ⁠נִי1

This is the purpose of the people being let go. Use a natural way in your language for indicating purpose. Alternate translation: “so they can serve me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])

661EXO821hitqהִנְ⁠נִי֩1

The expression behold me! is used to draw attention to important information that is next. Alternate translation: “Listen carefully”

662EXO821hwclgrammar-collectivenounsהֶ⁠עָרֹ֑ב…הֶ֣⁠עָרֹ֔ב1

Here, the swarm is a collective singular noun that refers to a great number of flying, biting insects traveling in a group. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternate translation: “swarms of flies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

663EXO821l5z7translate-unknownהֶ⁠עָרֹ֑ב…הֶ֣⁠עָרֹ֔ב1

Here, the swarm probably refers to the common large flies that bother humans and livestock. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

664EXO821folifigs-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]])

665EXO822mv8wgrammar-connect-logic-goalלְ⁠בִלְתִּ֥י הֱיֽוֹת־שָׁ֖ם עָרֹ֑ב1General Information:

This is the goal 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-goal]])

666EXO822apumgrammar-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/grammar-collectivenouns]])

667EXO822qb9htranslate-unknownעָרֹ֑ב1

These are probably the common large flies that bother humans and livestock. See how you translated this in 8:21 (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

668EXO822refqgrammar-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. Use a natural way in your language for indicating purpose. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])

669EXO822a28hאֲנִ֥י 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”

670EXO823oxr5figs-abstractnounsפְדֻ֔ת1

This is a noun derived from a verb meaning “to buy back.” Very broadly, it can mean “to save or rescue.” If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of redemption, you could express the same idea in another way. See the next note regarding textual variants for more information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

671EXO823tf4jtranslate-textvariantsפְדֻ֔ת1

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]])

672EXO823u4gsעַמִּ֖⁠י1

Yahwehs people, that is, the Israelites. Alternate translation: “the Israelites”

673EXO823rg2cעַמֶּ֑⁠ךָ1

Pharaohs people, that is, the Egyptians. Alternate translation: “the Egyptians”

674EXO823tb24figs-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 quotation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

675EXO824gw3cfigs-explicitוַ⁠יַּ֤עַשׂ יְהוָה֙ כֵּ֔ן1

The UST supplies a brief sentence filling in the gap between Yahwehs command to Moses and the onset of the plague. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly 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]])

676EXO824lk5swriting-neweventוַ⁠יַּ֤עַשׂ יְהוָה֙ כֵּ֔ן1

There is a minor scene change here. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

677EXO824ut0ftranslate-unknownעָרֹ֣ב1

There are probably the common large flies that bother humans and livestock. See how you translated this in 8:21 (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

678EXO824dg0kfigs-goוַ⁠יָּבֹא֙1

Some languages may need to translate this as “going” rather than “coming.” Alternate translation: “and … went” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

679EXO824tmcffigs-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]])

680EXO824nd6efigs-activepassiveתִּשָּׁחֵ֥ת הָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ מִ⁠פְּנֵ֥י הֶ⁠עָרֹֽב1the land was ruined because of the swarms of flies

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The swarms of flies devastated the land” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

681EXO824nguefigs-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]])

682EXO825e7l0grammar-connect-time-simultaneousוַ⁠יִּקְרָ֣א1

This happened during the plague. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])

683EXO825gj2wfigs-youdualלֵֽ⁠אלֹהֵי⁠כֶ֖ם1

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]])

684EXO826e9wkתּוֹעֲבַ֣ת 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.

685EXO826idktfigs-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]])

686EXO826i7dyfigs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “they will certainly stone us!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

687EXO826gy7dfigs-metonymyלְ⁠עֵינֵי⁠הֶ֖ם1right before their eyes

The express before their eyes is a figurative way of saying “where they can see.” If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “in their sight” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

688EXO827ju3ufigs-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]])

689EXO828qxesfigs-youdualאֶתְ⁠כֶם֙…אֱלֹֽהֵי⁠כֶם֙…תַרְחִ֖יקוּ1

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]])

690EXO828mla2אֶתְ⁠כֶם֙1

Alternate translation: “the Israelites”

691EXO828hnudfigs-idiomהַרְחֵ֥ק…תַרְחִ֖יקוּ1

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]])

692EXO829h94tהִנֵּ֨ה1

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. Alternate translation: “Know this”

693EXO829jirmtranslate-unknownהֶ⁠עָרֹ֗ב1

These are probably the common large flies that bother humans and livestock. See how you translated this in 8:21 (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

694EXO829yvclfigs-123personמִ⁠פַּרְעֹ֛ה…פַּרְעֹה֙1

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]])

695EXO829la3zfigs-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]])

696EXO829bf85figs-doublenegativesאַל־יֹסֵ֤ף פַּרְעֹה֙ הָתֵ֔ל לְ⁠בִלְתִּי֙ שַׁלַּ֣ח אֶת־הָ⁠עָ֔ם1you must not deal deceitfully any more by not letting our people go

If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “you must begin to deal truthfully with us and let our people go” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

697EXO829hh4qרַ֗ק אַל־יֹסֵ֤ף פַּרְעֹה֙ הָתֵ֔ל1But you must not deal deceitfully

Alternate translation: “But you must not deceive us” or “But you must not lie to us”

698EXO830tullwriting-neweventוַ⁠יֵּצֵ֥א מֹשֶׁ֖ה1

There is a minor scene shift here. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

699EXO831rj50translate-unknownהֶ⁠עָרֹ֔ב1

These are probably the common large flies that bother humans and livestock. See how you translated this in 8:21 (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

700EXO831iyhnfigs-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]])

701EXO831mb4rfigs-hyperboleלֹ֥א נִשְׁאַ֖ר אֶחָֽד1

This extreme statement emphasizes how thoroughly Yahweh removed the insects from the land. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that emphasizes thoroughness or complete lack of the swarm. Alternate translation: “There was not a single one of these insects left in the whole land” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

702EXO832sb5lfigs-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]])

703EXO9introhqw80

Exodus 09 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

  • v. 1-7: Fifth plague (first that does not affect Israelites): disease kills livestock
  • v. 8-12: Sixth plague: boils
  • v. 13-35: Seventh plague: hail
  • v. 27-35: Pharaoh seems to repent, but it does not last

Possible translation difficulties in this chapter

  • animals are affected in both the fifth and seventh plagues, in the fifth, the word is specifically related to domestic animals (livestock) while the word used in the seventh is more general
704EXO91se3fwriting-neweventוַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר יְהוָה֙1General Information:

A new scene begins here. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. This is the beginning of the fifth plague sequence. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

705EXO91p1ojfigs-quotemarksאֶל־מֹשֶׁ֔ה1

After this phrase, a direct quote begins that continues to the end of 9:4 and contains two additional 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. There may be other quotations in this chapter; they will be marked by the same punctuation, but they will not have their own notes unless there is something unique about them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

706EXO91fo4ofigs-quotesinquotesוְ⁠דִבַּרְתָּ֣ אֵלָ֗י⁠ו כֹּֽה־אָמַ֤ר יְהוָה֙ אֱלֹהֵ֣י הָֽ⁠עִבְרִ֔ים1

You may want to translate the second-level quotation 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]])

707EXO91w0lgכֹּֽה־אָמַ֤ר יְהוָה֙1

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

708EXO91x4bdעַמִּ֖⁠י1

Alternate translation: “the Israelites”

709EXO92l7ldfigs-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. If saying the same thing twice might be confusing for your readers, you can combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “If you continue refusing to let them go” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

710EXO93fltrהִנֵּ֨ה1

The word behold is used to draw attention to surprising information that follows. Alternate translation: “look out”

711EXO93ume2figs-metonymyיַד־יְהוָ֜ה הוֹיָ֗ה בְּ⁠מִקְנְ⁠ךָ֙1then Yahwehs hand will be on your cattle

Here, hand represents Yahwehs power to afflict their animals with disease. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “Then the power of Yahweh will afflict your livestock” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

712EXO93cjt9figs-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]])

713EXO93tn3zfigs-youdualבְּ⁠מִקְנְ⁠ךָ֙1on 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]])

714EXO93v8urfigs-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]])

715EXO93m1fkgrammar-collectivenounsבַּ⁠בָּקָ֖ר…וּ⁠בַ⁠צֹּ֑אן1

These (cattle and flock) are collective singular nouns which refer to groups of animals. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternate translation: “on your bulls and cows and on your sheep and goats” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

716EXO93f5srfigs-metaphorכָּבֵ֥ד1

Here the plague is spoken of as if it weighed a lot. This means it would be very bad. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “severe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

717EXO94x12rfigs-123personיְהוָ֔ה1

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]])

718EXO94lp3tfigs-metonymyיִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל1Israels cattle

Here, Israel refers to the Israelites. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “the Israelite people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

719EXO94u60cgrammar-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/grammar-collectivenouns]])

720EXO94fs25figs-metonymyמִקְנֵ֣ה מִצְרָ֑יִם1Egypts cattle

Here, Egypt refers to the Egyptians. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “the livestock of the Egyptian people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

721EXO94k5rxדָּבָֽר1

Alternate translation: “animal”

722EXO94xk5dמִ⁠כָּל־לִ⁠בְנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל1

Alternate translation: “which belongs to any of the sons of Israel”

723EXO95vqz2וַ⁠יָּ֥שֶׂם יְהוָ֖ה מוֹעֵ֣ד1fixed a time

Alternate translation: “And Yahweh made an appointed time”

724EXO95w8gkלֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר1

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.

725EXO95pxb1figs-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]])

726EXO96gt3nfigs-explicitוַ⁠יַּ֨עַשׂ יְהוָ֜ה1

It is implied that Moses went and spoke to Pharaoh as directed. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “Moses did as Yahweh had commanded. And Yahweh did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

727EXO96cx5ifigs-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]])

728EXO96gy7tfigs-metonymyמִצְרָ֑יִם1cattle of Egypt

Here, Egypt refers to the Egyptians. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “the Egyptian peoples” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

729EXO96i0blfigs-litotesוּ⁠מִ⁠מִּקְנֵ֥ה בְנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל לֹא־מֵ֥ת אֶחָֽד1

Here the author uses a figure of speech that expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If this is confusing in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “But every single one of the Israelites livestock lived” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

730EXO97md84וְ⁠הִנֵּ֗ה1behold

Again, behold is used to draw attention to surprising information that follows. Alternate translation: “and listen”

731EXO97rtnyfigs-litotesלֹא־מֵ֛ת מִ⁠מִּקְנֵ֥ה יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל עַד־אֶחָ֑ד1

Here the author uses a figure of speech that expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If this is confusing in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “every single one of the Israelites livestock was alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

732EXO97kkucfigs-metonymyיִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל1

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

733EXO97sforgrammar-collectivenounsיִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל1

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/grammar-collectivenouns]])

734EXO97j51jfigs-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]])

735EXO98brm6writing-neweventוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָה֮1kiln

A new scene begins here. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. This is the start of the sixth plague scene. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

736EXO98luhgfigs-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]])

737EXO98ydarקְח֤וּ לָ⁠כֶם֙ מְלֹ֣א חָפְנֵי⁠כֶ֔ם1

Alternate translation: “Each of you fill both your hands with”

738EXO98u5wnפִּ֖יחַ כִּבְשָׁ֑ן1

Alternate translation: “ash from a furnace” or “ash produced by a furnace”

739EXO98gk7fgrammar-collectivenounsפִּ֖יחַ1

Here, ash is singular. For some languages you may need to make it plural as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

740EXO98gu1vהַ⁠שָּׁמַ֖יְמָ⁠ה1

Alternate translation: “toward the sky”

741EXO98p795figs-metonymyלְ⁠עֵינֵ֥י פַרְעֹֽה1

The phrase before the eyes of Pharaoh means in his sight. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “in the sight of Pharaoh” or “so Pharaoh sees it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

742EXO99d2v3translate-unknownלִ⁠שְׁחִ֥ין פֹּרֵ֛חַ אֲבַעְבֻּעֹ֖ת1fine

To have boils means to have a condition where the skin is red, hot, and painful, the skin breaks open, and puss and blood come out. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

743EXO99jlh0figs-gendernotationsהָ⁠אָדָ֜ם1

Here, man includes women and children. Alternate translation: “people” or “mankind” or “humans” See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

744EXO910wdcngrammar-collectivenounsפִּ֣יחַ1

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/grammar-collectivenouns]])

745EXO910dp3lפִּ֣יחַ הַ⁠כִּבְשָׁ֗ן1

Alternate translation: “ash from a furnace” or “ash produced by a furnace” See how you translated this in the previous verse.

746EXO910ufpnfigs-metonymyוַ⁠יַּֽעַמְדוּ֙ לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֔ה1

Here, before the face of Pharaoh means in Pharaohs presence. Alternate translation: “and stood in Pharaohs presence” or “and stood in the presence of Pharaoh” See how you translated a similar statement in the previous verse. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

747EXO910xmbwהַ⁠שָּׁמָ֑יְמָ⁠ה1

Alternate translation: “toward the sky” See how you translated this in the previous verse.

748EXO910jhzbtranslate-unknownשְׁחִין֙ אֲבַעְבֻּעֹ֔ת פֹּרֵ֕חַ1

To have boils means to have a condition where the skin is red, hot, and painful, the skin breaks open, and puss and blood come out. See how you translated this in the previous verse. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

749EXO910rdo3figs-gendernotationsבָּ⁠אָדָ֖ם1

Here, man includes women and children. See how you translated this in the previous verse. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

750EXO911jrc3הַֽ⁠חַרְטֻמִּ֗ים…בַּֽ⁠חֲרְטֻמִּ֖ם1

See how you translated magicians in 7:11.

751EXO911dxsxfigs-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]])

752EXO911k9uufigs-metonymyמִ⁠פְּנֵ֣י הַ⁠שְּׁחִ֑ין1

Here, the face of means the presence of or perhaps pain from the boils. Alternate translation: “because of the boils” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

753EXO911lpmqtranslate-unknownהַ⁠שְּׁחִ֑ין…הַ⁠שְּׁחִ֔ין1

To have boils means to have a condition where the skin is red, hot, and painful, the skin breaks open, and puss and blood come 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]])

754EXO912p5m5figs-metaphorוַ⁠יְחַזֵּ֤ק יְהוָה֙ אֶת־לֵ֣ב פַּרְעֹ֔ה1Yahweh hardened Pharaohs heart

This phrase means that it was God who 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: “But Yahweh caused Pharaoh to be stubborn” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

755EXO913ifs8writing-neweventוַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר יְהוָה֙ אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֔ה1

A new scene begins here. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. This is the beginning of the seventh plague sequence. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

756EXO913zmrtfigs-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]])

757EXO913dxwwfigs-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]])

758EXO913hsl6כֹּֽה־אָמַ֤ר יְהוָה֙1

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

759EXO914z68bgrammar-connect-logic-resultכִּ֣י1

Here it is implied that Pharaoh will again not let Gods people go. For is expressing the result, that is, Gods response to Pharaohs disobedience to the command immediately preceding. You may need to insert this as in the UST or choose a contrastive conjunction. Alternate translation: “Otherwise,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

760EXO914n6wqfigs-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. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could translate the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I am about to send all my plagues against you personally” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

761EXO915f056figs-hypoכִּ֤י 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. Use the natural form in your language for expressing a hypothetical situation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])

762EXO915a3l8figs-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]])

763EXO915hgfxfigs-metaphorוָ⁠אַ֥ךְ אוֹתְ⁠ךָ֛ וְ⁠אֶֽת־עַמְּ⁠ךָ֖ בַּ⁠דָּ֑בֶר1

Here, a plague is spoken about as if it were something that could be used to hit someone. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “and caused you and your people to suffer from a plague” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

764EXO916kwksgrammar-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]])

765EXO916nec7figs-metonymyוּ⁠לְמַ֛עַן סַפֵּ֥ר שְׁמִ֖⁠י בְּ⁠כָל־הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ1so that my name may be proclaimed throughout all the earth

Here, my name represents Yahwehs reputation. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “and so that people everywhere will know who I am” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

766EXO917h3edfigs-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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “You are still blocking my people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

767EXO917sdavfigs-rpronounsמִסְתּוֹלֵ֣ל1

Here, Pharaoh is both the subject and object of the sentence. Translate this in a way that conveys that (1) Pharaoh is making Pharaoh (himself) proud and (2) this is 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]])

768EXO917r1wvמִסְתּוֹלֵ֣ל1

Here, you is Pharaoh.

769EXO917zfhbבְּ⁠עַמִּ֑⁠י1

Here, my people are the Israelites.

770EXO918fnd2הִנְ⁠נִ֤י1Listen!

Alternate translation: “Pay attention to the important thing I am about to tell you”

771EXO918pmy0כָּ⁠עֵ֣ת…אֲשֶׁ֨ר לֹא־הָיָ֤ה כָמֹ֨⁠הוּ֙1

Alternate translation: “at this time. There has never been anything like this”

772EXO919fdujfigs-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. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

773EXO919eo52וְ⁠יָרַ֧ד עֲלֵ⁠הֶ֛ם הַ⁠בָּרָ֖ד1

Alternate translation: “and the balls of ice will drop on”

774EXO919x4jafigs-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]])

775EXO919itlvוְ⁠הַ⁠בְּהֵמָ֜ה1

Here, and beast includes domestic and wild animals.

776EXO919f80efigs-explicitוָ⁠מֵֽתוּ1

The people and animals will die because they will be fatally injured by the hail. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “and the hail will kill them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

777EXO919g90pfigs-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]])

778EXO920dp8jfigs-explicitהַ⁠יָּרֵא֙1

As in some other occasions, Moses conversation with Pharaoh is not recorded. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express the fact that he did as Yahweh instructed explicitly. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

779EXO920p3nzהַ⁠יָּרֵא֙ אֶת־דְּבַ֣ר יְהוָ֔ה מֵֽ⁠עַבְדֵ֖י פַּרְעֹ֑ה1

Here, the word of Yahweh refers to Yahwehs warning, more broadly it means they believed that Yahweh would do what he threatened. Alternate translation: “Those of Pharaohs servants who feared Yahwehs warning”

780EXO921dvwvfigs-metaphorוַ⁠אֲשֶׁ֥ר 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]])

781EXO921bzqyfigs-metonymyדְּבַ֣ר יְהוָ֑ה1

Here, the word of Yahweh refers to Yahwehs warning, more broadly it means they did not believe that Yahweh would do what he threatened. Alternate translation: “Yahwehs warning” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

782EXO922vtflwriting-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]])

783EXO922zwvkיָֽדְ⁠ךָ֙1

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

784EXO922h9crfigs-gendernotationsהָ⁠אָדָ֣ם1

Here, man includes women and children. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

785EXO922r0g4הַ⁠בְּהֵמָ֗ה1

Here, beast includes domestic and wild animals.

786EXO923o8zyמַטֵּ⁠הוּ֮1

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

787EXO925vnpjfigs-merismמֵ⁠אָדָ֖ם וְ⁠עַד־בְּהֵמָ֑ה1

Here, from man to beast is a figure of speech used to emphasize the extent and severity of the hail. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “every living thing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

788EXO925ft0ofigs-gendernotationsמֵ⁠אָדָ֖ם1

Here, man includes women and children. Alternate translation: “from people” or “from mankind” or “from humans” See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

789EXO925apblבְּהֵמָ֑ה1

Here, beast includes domestic and wild animals.

790EXO927fu9cwriting-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]])

791EXO927sh1xחָטָ֣אתִי1

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.

792EXO927joxyהַ⁠צַּדִּ֔יק…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.

793EXO927wag1וְ⁠עַמִּ֖⁠י1

Here, my people refers to the Egyptians.

794EXO928r0csfigs-litotesוְ⁠לֹ֥א תֹסִפ֖וּ⁠ן לַ⁠עֲמֹֽד1

Here Pharaoh uses a figure of speech that expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If this is confusing in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “really, I will let you go”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

795EXO929ajz3וַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר אֵלָי⁠ו֙ מֹשֶׁ֔ה1Moses said to him

Alternate translation: “And Moses said to Pharaoh”

796EXO929b787translate-symactionאֶפְרֹ֥שׂ אֶת־כַּפַּ֖⁠י אֶל־יְהוָ֑ה1spread my hands out to Yahweh

This symbolic gesture accompanies prayer. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “I will pray to Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

797EXO930tn94grammar-connect-condition-contraryוְ⁠אַתָּ֖ה 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]])

798EXO930srx4figs-metonymyמִ⁠פְּנֵ֖י יְהוָ֥ה1

Here, face means presence or power. Alternate translation: “of Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

799EXO931pcwgwriting-background0

This and the next verse give background information so that the destruction caused by the later plagues can be understood by the reader. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

800EXO931p1v8translate-unknownוְ⁠הַ⁠פִּשְׁתָּ֥ה…וְ⁠הַ⁠פִּשְׁתָּ֖ה1flax

Flax is a plant that produces fibers that can be made into linen cloth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

801EXO931lzartranslate-unknownאָבִ֔יב1

This means the seeds at the top of the barley stalk were developing but still green. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

802EXO931xnvjגִּבְעֹֽל1

Alternate translation: “was flowering”

803EXO932jmq3translate-unknownוְ⁠הַ⁠כֻּסֶּ֖מֶת1spelt

Spelt is a kind of wheat. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

804EXO933fa2jtranslate-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]])

805EXO934ke5kfigs-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]])

806EXO934nz0eוַ⁠יֹּ֣סֶף 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.”

807EXO934ooedוַ⁠יַּכְבֵּ֥ד לִבּ֖⁠וֹ ה֥וּא וַ⁠עֲבָדָֽי⁠ו1

Alternate translation: “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”

808EXO935yxt8figs-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]])

809EXO935x0knfigs-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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “just as Yahweh had told Moses to say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

810EXO10intros5g10

Exodus 10 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

The text does not specify, but some time seems to have passed between chapters nine and ten (see 9:31-32 and 10:5).

  • v. 1-20: Eighth plague: locusts
  • v. 16-20: Pharaoh seems to repent, but it does not last
  • v. 21-29: Ninth plague: darkness
811EXO101w4pwfigs-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]])

812EXO102zg4cהִתְעַלַּ֨לְתִּי֙ בְּ⁠מִצְרַ֔יִם1various signs

Alternate translation: “I mocked Egypt”

813EXO103pm8pfigs-quotemarksוַ⁠יֹּאמְר֣וּ 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. There may be other quotations in this chapter; they will be marked by the same punctuation, but they will not have their own notes unless there is something unique about them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

814EXO103u3mqfigs-quotationsוַ⁠יֹּאמְר֣וּ 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]])

815EXO103vze4כֹּֽה־אָמַ֤ר יְהוָה֙1

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

816EXO103cicffigs-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” or “Until when will you refuse to be humble before me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

817EXO104ge67הִנְ⁠נִ֨י1listen

Here, behold me adds emphasis to what is said next. Alternate translation: “beware”

818EXO104uwtpgrammar-collectivenounsאַרְבֶּ֖ה1

Here, locust is a singular noun referring to the group as one. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternate translation: “locusts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

819EXO105zu5rfigs-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. If saying the same thing twice might be confusing for your readers, you can combine the phrases into one. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

820EXO105rdavוְ⁠כִסָּה֙ אֶת־עֵ֣ין הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ1

Alternate translation: “And it will cover the land from sight”

821EXO105oj3igrammar-collectivenounsוְ⁠כִסָּה֙…וְ⁠אָכַ֣ל…וְ⁠אָכַל֙1

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, or noun class is required in your language to agree with the word for “locust” that you used in the previous verse. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

822EXO106ir5lfigs-hyperboleמִ⁠יּ֗וֹם הֱיוֹתָ⁠ם֙ עַל־הָ֣⁠אֲדָמָ֔ה עַ֖ד הַ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠זֶּ֑ה1nothing ever seen

Here, on the earth could either mean “on the planet” or “on the land” (Egypt). Either way, the entire phrase is meant to emphasize an extremely long time, with the intended meaning being “never.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

823EXO106ma0ofigs-explicitוַ⁠יִּ֥פֶן1

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]])

824EXO107xn8jfigs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “We must not let this man continue to cause trouble for us!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

825EXO107jqbhfigs-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]])

826EXO107xdm5figs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You should realize that Egypt is destroyed!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

827EXO107c6prfigs-activepassiveכִּ֥י אָבְדָ֖ה מִצְרָֽיִם1that Egypt is destroyed

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that these plagues have destroyed Egypt” or “that their God has destroyed Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

828EXO108bu1xfigs-activepassiveוַ⁠יּוּשַׁ֞ב אֶת־מֹשֶׁ֤ה וְ⁠אֶֽת־אַהֲרֹן֙ אֶל־פַּרְעֹ֔ה1

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “And a servant brought Moses and Aaron back to Pharaoh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

829EXO108fzsvמִ֥י וָ⁠מִ֖י1

Alternate translation: “Who all”

830EXO109fnnlfigs-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]])

831EXO1010hjc9יְהִ֨י 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 a blessing 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”

832EXO1010w8x4figs-metonymyרְא֕וּ 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]])

833EXO1011pkm4הַ⁠גְּבָרִים֙1Then Moses and Aaron were driven out from Pharaohs presence

This interjection clarifies who may go. Alternate translation: “the leaders”

834EXO1011vdjkfigs-metonymyמֵ⁠אֵ֖ת פְּנֵ֥י פַרְעֹֽה1

Here, face figuratively represents the presence of Pharaoh. Alternate translation: “from his presence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

835EXO1012kchnwriting-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]])

836EXO1012gjfxיָדְ⁠ךָ֜1

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

837EXO1012qikqgrammar-collectivenounsבָּֽ⁠אַרְבֶּ֔ה1

Locust is a collective 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/grammar-collectivenouns]])

838EXO1012gzwagrammar-collectivenounsוְ⁠יַ֖עַל…וְ⁠יֹאכַל֙1

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/grammar-collectivenouns]])

839EXO1013xqszמַטֵּ⁠הוּ֮1

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

840EXO1013vee8ר֥וּחַ קָדִים֙1

The wind blew from east to west.

841EXO1013syz2grammar-collectivenounsהָ⁠אַרְבֶּֽה1

See how you translated this in 10:4. Alternate translation: “locusts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

842EXO1014kuuugrammar-collectivenounsהָֽ⁠אַרְבֶּ֗ה…אַרְבֶּה֙1

See how you translated this in 10:4. Alternate translation: “locusts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

843EXO1015b3h5grammar-collectivenounsוַ⁠יְכַ֞ס…וַ⁠יֹּ֜אכַל1so 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/grammar-collectivenouns]])

844EXO1015xszcוַ⁠יְכַ֞ס אֶת־עֵ֣ין כָּל־הָ⁠אָרֶץ֮1

See how you translated this in 10:5.

845EXO1015ill1figs-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. If saying the same thing twice might be confusing for your readers, you can combine the phrases into one. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

846EXO1016ty9ffigs-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]])

847EXO1017tsveשָׂ֣א1

Alternate translation: “take away”

848EXO1017ttogאַ֣ךְ הַ⁠פַּ֔עַם…רַ֖ק1

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.

849EXO1017kd6dfigs-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]])

850EXO1017doegfigs-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. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

851EXO1017nn2bfigs-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. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “this destruction that will lead to our deaths” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

852EXO1018p9hzוַ⁠יֵּצֵ֖א1

Moses and Aaron were summoned to the king in 10:16, so some translations will need to say that they both left.

853EXO1019xhsvרֽוּחַ־יָם֙ חָזָ֣ק מְאֹ֔ד1

Alternate translation: “a very strong west wind” or “a very strong wind from the west”

854EXO1019mdp5וַ⁠יִּשָּׂא֙ אֶת־הָ֣⁠אַרְבֶּ֔ה1picked up the locusts

Alternate translation: “and it moved the locust upward”

855EXO1019zhcugrammar-collectivenounsהָ֣⁠אַרְבֶּ֔ה…אַרְבֶּ֣ה1

See how you translated this in 10:4. Alternate translation: “the locusts … of the locusts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

856EXO1019q8ajgrammar-collectivenounsוַ⁠יִּתְקָעֵ֖⁠הוּ1

Here, the first it refers to the wind; the second it agrees in number with the collective singular “locust.” See how you translated this in 10:5 (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

857EXO1020dw1dfigs-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 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]])

858EXO1021x6xkwriting-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]])

859EXO1021utyzיָֽדְ⁠ךָ֙1

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

860EXO1021m38sfigs-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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “Egypt, an extremely oppressive darkness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

861EXO1022z4geיָד֖⁠וֹ1

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

862EXO1022vbzjtranslate-numbersשְׁלֹ֥שֶׁת1

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

863EXO1023jmd8figs-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. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “No one could see the people who lived with them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

864EXO1023o572figs-gendernotationsאִ֣ישׁ…אִ֥ישׁ1

Here, man refers to any human in general. Alternate translation: “person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

865EXO1023qstutranslate-numbersשְׁלֹ֣שֶׁת1

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

866EXO1024vp7bfigs-youdualלְכוּ֙ 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]])

867EXO1025rsr4figs-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 with them. 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 the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

868EXO1025cj78figs-metonymyזְבָחִ֣ים וְ⁠עֹל֑וֹת1

Here, sacrifices and burnt offerings refers to the animals of their flocks and herds that they must take. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “animals for sacrifices and burnt offerings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

869EXO1025bjy0וְ⁠עָשִׂ֖ינוּ 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”

870EXO1025ixo7figs-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]])

871EXO1026k0pifigs-exclusiveמִקְנֵ֜⁠נוּ…עִמָּ֗⁠נוּ…נִקַּ֔ח…אֱלֹהֵ֑י⁠נוּ וַ⁠אֲנַ֣חְנוּ…נֵדַ֗ע…נַּעֲבֹד֙…בֹּאֵ֖⁠נוּ1

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]])

872EXO1026ys4vfigs-activepassiveלֹ֤א תִשָּׁאֵר֙ פַּרְסָ֔ה1

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “We cannot leave behind a single animal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

873EXO1026v9ucfigs-synecdocheפַּרְסָ֔ה1a hoof

Here the word hoof refers to the entire animal. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could translate the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “a single animal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

874EXO1026uiomשָֽׁמָּ⁠ה1

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 of travel to reach (see 3:18 and 5:3).

875EXO1027n588figs-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 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]])

876EXO1027mv8tוְ⁠לֹ֥א אָבָ֖ה לְ⁠שַׁלְּחָֽ⁠ם1he would not let them go

Alternate translation: “and Pharaoh would not consent to let them go”

877EXO1028di6gfigs-rpronounsהִשָּׁ֣מֶר לְ⁠ךָ֗1

Here, the listener, Moses, is both the subject and object of 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]])

878EXO1028eza9figs-idiomהִשָּׁ֣מֶר לְ⁠ךָ֗1

This is an idiom. Pharaoh is not telling Moses literally to keep looking at himself. Alternate translation: “Be careful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

879EXO1028lcz2figs-explicitתָּמֽוּת1Be careful about one thing

Pharaoh means he will have Moses killed. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

880EXO1028te45figs-synecdocheפָּנַ֔⁠י…פָנַ֖⁠י1you see my face

Here, face refers to the whole person. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

881EXO1029h1jffigs-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]])

882EXO1029rg18figs-synecdocheפָּנֶֽי⁠ךָ1

Here, face refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: “you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

883EXO11intropu3u0

Exodus 11 General Notes

Structure and Formatting\r

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.

884EXO111hromfigs-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. There may be other quotations in this chapter; they will be marked by the same punctuation, but they will not have their own notes unless there is something unique about them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

885EXO111eqebgrammar-connect-time-sequentialכְּ⁠שַׁ֨לְּח֔⁠וֹ…יְגָרֵ֥שׁ1

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]])

886EXO111iocdכָּלָ֕ה גָּרֵ֛שׁ יְגָרֵ֥שׁ1

The wording here is very forceful. Use strong words, forms, or phrasing when you are translating.

887EXO111i87hfigs-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]])

888EXO112t14cנָ֖א1

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).

889EXO112nlskבְּ⁠אָזְנֵ֣י הָ⁠עָ֑ם1

Alternate translation: “so the people hear you” or “when all the people are listening”

890EXO112jl6wכְּלֵי־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.

891EXO112ddejוְ⁠יִשְׁאֲל֞וּ אִ֣ישׁ׀ מֵ⁠אֵ֣ת רֵעֵ֗⁠הוּ וְ⁠אִשָּׁה֙ מֵ⁠אֵ֣ת רְעוּתָ֔⁠הּ כְּלֵי־כֶ֖סֶף וּ⁠כְלֵ֥י זָהָֽב1

Exodus 3:22 contains similar instructions; see how you translated there.

892EXO113x83sfigs-asideוַ⁠יִּתֵּ֧ן יְהוָ֛ה אֶת־חֵ֥ן הָ⁠עָ֖ם בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֣י מִצְרָ֑יִם גַּ֣ם׀ הָ⁠אִ֣ישׁ מֹשֶׁ֗ה גָּד֤וֹל מְאֹד֙ בְּ⁠אֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֔יִם בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֥י עַבְדֵֽי־פַרְעֹ֖ה וּ⁠בְ⁠עֵינֵ֥י הָ⁠עָֽם1

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]])

893EXO113hng9figs-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]])

894EXO113orq6figs-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]])

895EXO113s5zyוַ⁠יִּתֵּ֧ן יְהוָ֛ה אֶת־חֵ֥ן הָ⁠עָ֖ם בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֣י מִצְרָ֑יִם1

Exodus 3:21 contains a related phrase; see how you translated it there.

896EXO114kpb5כֹּ֖ה אָמַ֣ר יְהוָ֑ה1midnight

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

897EXO115hv8kבְּכוֹר֮…מִ⁠בְּכ֤וֹר…בְּכ֣וֹר…בְּכ֥וֹר1All 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.

898EXO115k42hfigs-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 the economy to show the totality of the coming judgment. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

899EXO115hr1xאֲשֶׁ֖ר אַחַ֣ר הָ⁠רֵחָ֑יִם1who is behind the handmill grinding it

Alternate translation: “who is grinding at the handmill” or “who is behind the handmill grinding grain”

900EXO116hui7figs-merismאֲשֶׁ֤ר כָּמֹ֨⁠הוּ֙ לֹ֣א נִהְיָ֔תָה וְ⁠כָמֹ֖⁠הוּ לֹ֥א תֹסִֽף1

This phrase uses the extremes of past and future to emphasize the concept of “never.” If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “such as has never been and never will be” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

901EXO117b60afigs-idiomלֹ֤א יֶֽחֱרַץ…לְשֹׁנ֔⁠וֹ1

This means to make an unfriendly noise. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “will not growl” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

902EXO117t61ifigs-youdualתֵּֽדְע֔וּ⁠ן1

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]])

903EXO117fl78אֲשֶׁר֙ יַפְלֶ֣ה יְהוָ֔ה בֵּ֥ין מִצְרַ֖יִם וּ⁠בֵ֥ין יִשְׂרָאֵֽל1

See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 9:4.

904EXO118hofttranslate-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. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

905EXO118l678figs-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]])

906EXO118njx8figs-metaphorוְ⁠כָל־הָ⁠עָ֣ם אֲשֶׁר־בְּ⁠רַגְלֶ֔י⁠ךָ1

Here, the people are figuratively pictured as below Moses, which means they are 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]])

907EXO118ria5figs-explicitוְ⁠אַחֲרֵי־כֵ֖ן אֵצֵ֑א1After that I will go out

This means that Moses and the Israelites will leave Egypt. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. 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]])

908EXO118milufigs-idiomבָּ⁠חֳרִי־אָֽף1

This is an idiom meaning that Moses is angry. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “enraged” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

909EXO1110h5g7writing-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 introductory notes to this chapter) in this way. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory]])

910EXO1110um4ufigs-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 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]])

911EXO12introfd2f0

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]])

912EXO122z785figs-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. There may be other quotations in this chapter; they will be marked by the same punctuation, but they will not have their own notes unless there is something unique about them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

913EXO122gtgbfigs-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]])

914EXO122uy4wtranslate-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. You could convert the Hebrew day and month into an approximate date on the calendar that your culture uses. However, the Jews used a lunar calendar, so if you use a solar calendar, the date will be different every year and the translation will not be entirely accurate. So you may just want to give the number of the day and the name of the month on the Hebrew calendar, and say approximately what time of year that is on your calendar in a footnote. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths]])

915EXO123lv6sfigs-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]])

916EXO123jjw0וְ⁠יִקְח֣וּ 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”

917EXO123d1f5שֶׂ֥ה לַ⁠בָּֽיִת1

Alternate translation: “one lamb per house”

918EXO123qzctשֶׂ֥ה…שֶׂ֥ה1

The word lamb literally means “of the flock,” and it 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 either sheep or goat, whichever would be most familiar.

919EXO124xzn3figs-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. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “If there are not enough people in the household to eat an entire lamb” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

920EXO124o258וּ⁠שְׁכֵנ֛⁠וֹ הַ⁠קָּרֹ֥ב אֶל־בֵּית֖⁠וֹ בְּ⁠מִכְסַ֣ת נְפָשֹׁ֑ת1

The phrase by the number of people helps to clarify which sort of neighbor near to his house the Israelite should choose. They should count their own household and another household and try to have a group that is the right number to eat an entire lamb. Alternate translation: “and his neighbor who lives near him and whose family is the right size to share a lamb with”

921EXO124fu2gfigs-gendernotationsאִ֚ישׁ1the man and his next door neighbor

Here man refers to each person, whether man, woman, or child. Alternate translation: “each family member” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

922EXO126lz76בֵּ֥ין הָ⁠עַרְבָּֽיִם1twilight

This refers to the time of evening after the sun has set but while there is still some light.

923EXO127cjt7עַל־שְׁתֵּ֥י הַ⁠מְּזוּזֹ֖ת וְ⁠עַל־הַ⁠מַּשְׁק֑וֹף עַ֚ל הַ⁠בָּ֣תִּ֔ים1on the two side doorposts and on the tops of the doorframes of the houses

Alternate translation: “on the sides and top of the way into the house” or “on the top and sides of the frame around the door into the house”

924EXO128uxn6מְרֹרִ֖ים1bitter herbs

These are edible but strong-tasting leaves, seeds, and other parts of plants.

925EXO129ny3aאַל־תֹּאכְל֤וּ מִמֶּ֨⁠נּוּ֙ נָ֔א1Do not eat it raw

Alternate translation: “Do not eat the lamb or goat uncooked”

926EXO1211ks7dחֲגֻרִ֔ים1belt

Here, belts are strips of leather or fabric for tying around the waist.

927EXO1211nzw2וַ⁠אֲכַלְתֶּ֤ם אֹת⁠וֹ֙ בְּ⁠חִפָּז֔וֹן1eat it hurriedly

Alternate translation: “And you must eat it quickly”

928EXO1211r789figs-explicitפֶּ֥סַח ה֖וּא לַ⁠יהוָֽה1It is Yahwehs Passover

It refers to eating the animal on the tenth day of the month. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “This observance is Yahwehs Passover” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

929EXO1212sa5nfigs-abstractnounsוּ⁠בְ⁠כָל־אֱלֹהֵ֥י מִצְרַ֛יִם אֶֽעֱשֶׂ֥ה שְׁפָטִ֖ים1I will bring punishment on all the gods of Egypt

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of judgment, you could express the same idea in another way. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

930EXO1213tywzfigs-abstractnounsלְ⁠מַשְׁחִ֔ית1

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of destruction, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “to destroy you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

931EXO1213bnoefigs-activepassiveוְ⁠לֹֽא־יִֽהְיֶ֨ה בָ⁠כֶ֥ם נֶ֨גֶף֙1

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and I will not put the plague on you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

932EXO1213ox3lfigs-metonymyבְּ⁠אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם1

Yahweh is going to strike the people and animals who live in the land of Egypt. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “on everything living in the land of Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

933EXO1214fa9qוְ⁠הָיָה֩ 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.

934EXO1214usnstranslate-hebrewmonthsהַ⁠יּ֨וֹם הַ⁠זֶּ֤ה1

Here, 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]])

935EXO1215xsb9אַ֚ךְ1

Alternate translation: “Surely” or “Indeed”

936EXO1215i9n3figs-metaphorוְ⁠נִכְרְתָ֞ה הַ⁠נֶּ֤פֶשׁ הַ⁠הִוא֙ מִ⁠יִּשְׂרָאֵ֔ל1that person must be cut off from Israel

The metaphor cut off could mean: (1) the person must leave. Alternate translation: “he must be sent away” (2) the person is no longer an Israelite. Alternate translation: “he will no longer be considered to be one of the people of Israel” (3) the person must die. Alternate translation: “he must be killed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

937EXO1215enw3figs-activepassiveוְ⁠נִכְרְתָ֞ה הַ⁠נֶּ֤פֶשׁ הַ⁠הִוא֙ מִ⁠יִּשְׂרָאֵ֔ל1

As noted in the previous note, the metaphor cut off has at least three possible meanings. By whom that person will be cut off is not specified; it could be the Israelites or Yahweh. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. 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]])

938EXO1215eqzugrammar-collectivenounsמִ⁠יִּשְׂרָאֵ֔ל1

Israel is a collective noun referring to the nation or people group. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternate translation: “from the Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

939EXO1216bzj6figs-activepassiveוּ⁠בַ⁠יּ֤וֹם הָ⁠רִאשׁוֹן֙ מִקְרָא־קֹ֔דֶשׁ וּ⁠בַ⁠יּוֹם֙ הַ⁠שְּׁבִיעִ֔י מִקְרָא־קֹ֖דֶשׁ יִהְיֶ֣ה לָ⁠כֶ֑ם1an assembly that is set apart to me

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. 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]])

940EXO1216cb1rfigs-abstractnounsמִקְרָא־קֹ֔דֶשׁ…מִקְרָא־קֹ֖דֶשׁ1an assembly that is set apart to me

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of holiness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “a holy assembly … a holy assembly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

941EXO1216o3ohtranslate-ordinalוּ⁠בַ⁠יּ֤וֹם הָ⁠רִאשׁוֹן֙…וּ⁠בַ⁠יּוֹם֙ הַ⁠שְּׁבִיעִ֔י1

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “And on day one of the month … and on day seven of the month” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

942EXO1216l7pjfigs-activepassiveכָּל־מְלָאכָה֙ לֹא־יֵעָשֶׂ֣ה בָ⁠הֶ֔ם1No work will be done on these days

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “You will do no work on these days” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

943EXO1216qr65figs-activepassiveה֥וּא לְ⁠בַדּ֖⁠וֹ יֵעָשֶׂ֥ה לָ⁠כֶֽם1That must be the only work that may be done by you

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “which must be the only work that you do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

944EXO1217r3qjtranslate-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]])

945EXO1218v7g9translate-ordinalבָּ⁠רִאשֹׁ֡ן בְּ⁠אַרְבָּעָה֩ עָשָׂ֨ר י֤וֹם לַ⁠חֹ֨דֶשׁ֙…עַ֠ד י֣וֹם הָ⁠אֶחָ֧ד וְ⁠עֶשְׂרִ֛ים לַ⁠חֹ֖דֶשׁ1

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “In month one, on day fourteen … until day twenty-one of the month” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

946EXO1218l57qtranslate-ordinalבָּ⁠רִאשֹׁ֡ן בְּ⁠אַרְבָּעָה֩ עָשָׂ֨ר י֤וֹם לַ⁠חֹ֨דֶשׁ֙…עַ֠ד י֣וֹם הָ⁠אֶחָ֧ד וְ⁠עֶשְׂרִ֛ים לַ⁠חֹ֖דֶשׁ1

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

947EXO1218m475translate-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. You could convert the Hebrew day and month into an approximate date on the calendar that your culture uses. However, the Jews used a lunar calendar, so if you use a solar calendar, the date will be different every year and the translation will not be entirely accurate. So you may just want to give the number of the day and the name of the month on the Hebrew calendar, and say approximately what time of year that is on your calendar in a footnote.(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths]])

948EXO1218uss3translate-hebrewmonthsי֣וֹם הָ⁠אֶחָ֧ד וְ⁠עֶשְׂרִ֛ים לַ⁠חֹ֖דֶשׁ1the twenty-first day of the month

This is near the middle of April on Western calendars. You could convert the Hebrew day and month into an approximate date on the calendar that your culture uses. However, the Jews used a lunar calendar, so if you use a solar calendar, the date will be different every year and the translation will not be entirely accurate. So you may just want to give the number of the day and the name of the month on the Hebrew calendar, and say approximately what time of year that is on your calendar in a footnote.(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths]])

949EXO1219aej1figs-activepassiveשְׂאֹ֕ר לֹ֥א יִמָּצֵ֖א בְּ⁠בָתֵּי⁠כֶ֑ם1no yeast must be found in your houses

This means there should not be any yeast in their houses. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Note that the UST more accurately conveys the meaning here, as the alternate translation in this note could be understood to mean that you must simply hide the yeast very well. Alternate translation: “Yahweh must not find any yeast in your houses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

950EXO1219vy72figs-metaphorוְ⁠נִכְרְתָ֞ה הַ⁠נֶּ֤פֶשׁ הַ⁠הִוא֙ מֵ⁠עֲדַ֣ת יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל1must be cut off from the community of Israel

See how you translated cut off in Exodus 12:15. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

951EXO1219cwvsfigs-metaphorוְ⁠נִכְרְתָ֞ה הַ⁠נֶּ֤פֶשׁ הַ⁠הִוא֙ מֵ⁠עֲדַ֣ת יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל1

See how you translated cut off in Exodus 12:15. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

952EXO1221y9qtwriting-newevent0summoned

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]])

953EXO1222qwv1translate-unknownאֲגֻדַּ֣ת אֵז֗וֹב1hyssop

Hyssop is a woody plant with small leaves that can be used for sprinkling liquids by dipping the leaves in the liquid and then shaking them or brushing them over the target. 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]])

954EXO1222c1cfאֶל־הַ⁠מַּשְׁקוֹף֙ וְ⁠אֶל־שְׁתֵּ֣י הַ⁠מְּזוּזֹ֔ת1the top of the doorframe and the two doorposts

Alternate translation: “on the sides and top of the way into the house.” See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 12:7.

955EXO1222vdljfigs-gendernotationsלֹ֥א…אִ֥ישׁ1

Here, man includes women and children. Alternate translation: “no person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

956EXO1223uu61figs-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. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could translate the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and Yahweh will pass over the house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

957EXO1223onpuעַל־הַ⁠מַּשְׁק֔וֹף וְ⁠עַ֖ל שְׁתֵּ֣י הַ⁠מְּזוּזֹ֑ת1

Alternate translation: “on the sides and top of the way into the house” See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 12:7.

958EXO1224v7z5הַ⁠דָּבָ֣ר הַ⁠זֶּ֑ה1this event

These words refer to the Passover or Festival of Unleavened Bread. Observing the Passover was an act of worshiping Yahweh.

959EXO1224bzm0figs-youcrowdלְ⁠ךָ֥ וּ⁠לְ⁠בָנֶ֖י⁠ךָ1

Here, you and your are singular but they refer to the whole nation. If the singular form would not be natural in your language for someone who was speaking to a group of people, you could use the plural forms of “you” in your translation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd]])

960EXO1224ch73figs-gendernotationsוּ⁠לְ⁠בָנֶ֖י⁠ךָ1

Here, sons includes everyone. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

961EXO1225l8lsהָ⁠עֲבֹדָ֥ה הַ⁠זֹּֽאת1this act of worship

Here, this service refers to the Passover or Festival of Unleavened Bread. Observing the Passover was an act of worshiping Yahweh.

962EXO1226hbh4figs-gendernotationsבְּנֵי⁠כֶ֑ם1

Here, your sons refers to all children, as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

963EXO1226odj0figs-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]])

964EXO1227t779figs-explicitוְ⁠אֶת־בָּתֵּ֣י⁠נוּ הִצִּ֑יל1He set our households free

This means that Yahweh spared the Israelites firstborn sons. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “He did not kill the firstborn sons in our houses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

965EXO1228r5cjכַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֨ר צִוָּ֧ה יְהוָ֛ה אֶת־מֹשֶׁ֥ה וְ⁠אַהֲרֹ֖ן כֵּ֥ן עָשֽׂוּ1as Yahweh had commanded Moses and Aaron

Alternate translation: “everything that Yahweh told Moses and Aaron to do”

966EXO1229rvg90

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.

967EXO1229zm1lfigs-merismמִ⁠בְּכֹ֤ר פַּרְעֹה֙ הַ⁠יֹּשֵׁ֣ב עַל־כִּסְא֔⁠וֹ עַ֚ד בְּכ֣וֹר הַ⁠שְּׁבִ֔י אֲשֶׁ֖ר בְּ⁠בֵ֣ית הַ⁠בּ֑וֹר וְ⁠כֹ֖ל בְּכ֥וֹר בְּהֵמָֽה1at midnight

This phrase indicates 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. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. 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]])

968EXO1229uj6uבְּכוֹר֮…מִ⁠בְּכֹ֤ר…בְּכ֣וֹר…בְּכ֥וֹר1all the firstborn in the land of Egypt…all the firstborn of cattle

In these usages, firstborn always refers to the oldest male offspring. See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 11:5.

969EXO1229g9z1עַ֚ד בְּכ֣וֹר הַ⁠שְּׁבִ֔י אֲשֶׁ֖ר בְּ⁠בֵ֣ית הַ⁠בּ֑וֹר1the firstborn of the person in prison

Alternate translation: “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.

970EXO1230gt4wfigs-doublenegativesכִּֽי־אֵ֣ין בַּ֔יִת אֲשֶׁ֥ר אֵֽין־שָׁ֖ם מֵֽת׃1for there was not a house where there was not someone dead

If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “because someone was dead in every house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

971EXO1231j8k5figs-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]])

972EXO1233j5u4figs-explicitכֻּלָּ֥⁠נוּ מֵתִֽים1We will all die

The Egyptians were afraid that they would die if the Israelites did not leave Egypt. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “We will all die if you do not leave” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

973EXO1234diw8figs-activepassiveמִשְׁאֲרֹתָ֛⁠ם צְרֻרֹ֥ת בְּ⁠שִׂמְלֹתָ֖⁠ם עַל־שִׁכְמָֽ⁠ם1Their kneading bowls were already tied up in their clothes and on their shoulders

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. 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]])

974EXO1236nvmofigs-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]])

975EXO1237n1hatranslate-namesמֵ⁠רַעְמְסֵ֖ס1Rameses

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]])

976EXO1237u81ltranslate-numbersכְּ⁠שֵׁשׁ־מֵא֨וֹת אֶ֧לֶף1They numbered about 600,000 men

Alternate translation: “about six hundred thousand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

977EXO1239pva6figs-activepassiveכִּֽי־גֹרְשׁ֣וּ מִ⁠מִּצְרַ֗יִם1they had been driven out of Egypt

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “because the Egyptians had driven them out of Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

978EXO1240qsi5translate-numbersשְׁלֹשִׁ֣ים…וְ⁠אַרְבַּ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת1430 years

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

979EXO1241d8yhtranslate-numbersשְׁלֹשִׁ֣ים…וְ⁠אַרְבַּ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת1430 years

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

980EXO1241xlf4translate-unknownצִבְא֥וֹת1Yahwehs 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]])

981EXO1242w6mjלַֽ⁠יהוָ֔ה שִׁמֻּרִ֛ים לְ⁠כָל־בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל לְ⁠דֹרֹתָֽ⁠ם1all the Israelites throughout their peoples generations

Alternate translation: “for all the sons of Israel throughout their generations to observe for Yahweh”

982EXO1244n9wnוְ⁠כָל־עֶ֥בֶד אִ֖ישׁ1every Israelites slave

Alternate translation: “But any slave of an Israelite”

983EXO1244qabigrammar-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]])

984EXO1244jqs8figs-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]])

985EXO1246j242figs-activepassiveבְּ⁠בַ֤יִת אֶחָד֙ יֵאָכֵ֔ל1The food must be eaten in one house

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “You must eat it in one house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

986EXO1246iovjfigs-youcrowdלֹא־תוֹצִ֧יא1

Here, you is singular, however it is used to address a crowd. If the singular form would not be natural in your language for someone who was speaking to a group of people, you could use the plural forms of “you” in your translation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd]])

987EXO1248j7obgrammar-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]])

988EXO1248va2pfigs-youcrowdאִתְּ⁠ךָ֜1

Here, you is singular, however it is used to address a crowd. If the singular form would not be natural in your language for someone who was speaking to a group of people, you could use the plural forms of “you” in your translation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd]])

989EXO1248h7k9figs-activepassiveהִמּ֧וֹל ל֣⁠וֹ כָל־זָכָ֗ר1all his male relatives must be circumcised

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “someone must circumcise all males in his household” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

990EXO1248n3fzgrammar-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]])

991EXO1248hi4zfigs-metonymyכְּ⁠אֶזְרַ֣ח הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ1the 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. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “those who are Israelites by birth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

992EXO1248f9tifigs-doublenegativesוְ⁠כָל־עָרֵ֖ל לֹֽא־יֹ֥אכַל בּֽ⁠וֹ1no uncircumcised person may eat

If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “And only a circumcised person may eat it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

993EXO1251e3z3וַ⁠יְהִ֕י 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.

994EXO1251tyj3translate-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]])

995EXO13introg9qi0

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.
996EXO132de3ufigs-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. There may be other quotations in this chapter; they will be marked by the same punctuation, but they will not have their own notes unless there is something unique about them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

997EXO133en1sfigs-metaphorמִ⁠בֵּ֣ית עֲבָדִ֔ים1the house of slavery

Moses speaks of Egypt as if it were a house where people keep slaves. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “the place where you were slaves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

998EXO133yjy5figs-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]])

999EXO133c6eefigs-activepassiveוְ⁠לֹ֥א יֵאָכֵ֖ל חָמֵֽץ1No bread with yeast may be eaten

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language, as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1000EXO134y1f3translate-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. You could convert the Hebrew day and month into an approximate date on the calendar that your culture uses. However, the Jews used a lunar calendar, so if you use a solar calendar, the date will be different every year and the translation will not be entirely accurate. So you may just want to give the number of the day and the name of the month on the Hebrew calendar, and say approximately what time of year that is on your calendar in a footnote.(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths]])

1001EXO135x89sוְ⁠הָיָ֣ה 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.

1002EXO135u37lfigs-metonymyלַ⁠אֲבֹתֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙1

Here, fathers figuratively means “ancestors.” Alternate translation: “to your ancestors” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1003EXO135ueejאֶ֛רֶץ זָבַ֥ת חָלָ֖ב וּ⁠דְבָ֑שׁ1

The same description occurs in Exodus 3:8. See how you translated it there and in the several notes for it.

1004EXO136vwy9translate-numbersשִׁבְעַ֥ת1For seven days

Alternate translation: “7” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1005EXO136mde6translate-ordinalוּ⁠בַ⁠יּוֹם֙ הַ⁠שְּׁבִיעִ֔י1

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “and on day 7” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1006EXO137n41mfigs-activepassiveמַצּוֹת֙ יֵֽאָכֵ֔ל1Bread without yeast must be eaten

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “You must eat unleavened bread” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1007EXO137zm8ptranslate-numbersשִׁבְעַ֣ת1

Alternate translation: “7” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1008EXO137le33figs-activepassiveוְ⁠לֹֽא־יֵרָאֶ֨ה לְ⁠ךָ֜ חָמֵ֗ץ1no bread with yeast may be seen among you

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you may not have any bread with yeast among you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1009EXO137c9krfigs-activepassiveוְ⁠לֹֽא־יֵרָאֶ֥ה לְ⁠ךָ֛ שְׂאֹ֖ר1No yeast may be seen with you

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “You may not have any yeast” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1010EXO137dmv1בְּ⁠כָל־גְּבֻלֶֽ⁠ךָ1within any of your borders

Alternate translation: “inside any of the borders of your land”

1011EXO138qum9figs-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]])

1012EXO139p21hfigs-parallelismוְ⁠הָיָה֩ לְ⁠ךָ֨ לְ⁠א֜וֹת עַל־יָדְ⁠ךָ֗ וּ⁠לְ⁠זִכָּרוֹן֙ בֵּ֣ין עֵינֶ֔י⁠ךָ1This will be a reminder for you on your hand, and a reminder on your forehead

This phrase compares the Festival of Unleavened bread to two different types of physical reminders that help people not forget something important. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

1013EXO139s7zgfigs-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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “like something you tie around your hand as a reminder” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1014EXO139mru4figs-metaphorוּ⁠לְ⁠זִכָּרוֹן֙ 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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “and like something you tie around your head as a reminder” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1015EXO139b6nyfigs-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. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “so you may always be speaking of the law of Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1016EXO139w5rmfigs-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]])

1017EXO1310rxelfigs-merismמִ⁠יָּמִ֖ים יָמִֽימָ⁠ה1

Alternate translation: “for all time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

1018EXO1311e886figs-metonymyוְ⁠לַֽ⁠אֲבֹתֶ֑י⁠ךָ1

Here, fathers figuratively means “ancestors.” Alternate translation: “to your ancestors” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1019EXO1311iqh5וּ⁠נְתָנָ֖⁠הּ לָֽ⁠ךְ1when he gives the land to you

Alternate translation: “when he gives the land of the Canaanites to you”

1020EXO1312mqgsוְ⁠הַעֲבַרְתָּ֥1

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.

1021EXO1313lwv5figs-explicitבְ⁠שֶׂ֔ה…וַ⁠עֲרַפְתּ֑⁠וֹ1Every firstborn of a donkey

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could make explicit that either the lamb or donkey must be killed, as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1022EXO1313ew26לֹ֥א תִפְדֶּ֖ה1

Alternate translation: “you do not ransom the donkey”

1023EXO1314s8cmfigs-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]])

1024EXO1314qr7qfigs-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]])

1025EXO1314rcz7figs-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]])

1026EXO1315fgvgfigs-metaphorכִּֽי־הִקְשָׁ֣ה פַרְעֹה֮ לְ⁠שַׁלְּחֵ⁠נוּ֒1

If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. 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]])

1027EXO1315atxzfigs-merismמִ⁠בְּכֹ֥ר אָדָ֖ם וְ⁠עַד־בְּכ֣וֹר בְּהֵמָ֑ה1

This is a figure of speech used to emphasize the extent of the plague, nothing was exempt. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “whether he was a person or an animal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

1028EXO1316bse4figs-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]])

1029EXO1316xfagfigs-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]])

1030EXO1317uxjhwriting-background0

Verses 17-19 provide background information about the Israelites process of leaving Egypt. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1031EXO1317cv8nwriting-neweventוַ⁠יְהִ֗י1

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]])

1032EXO1317pum6grammar-connect-logic-contrastוְ⁠לֹא־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-logic-contrast]])

1033EXO1317upopfigs-hypoפֶּֽן־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/figs-hypo]])

1034EXO1318c4twוַ⁠חֲמֻשִׁ֛ים1

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”

1035EXO1319cxykוַ⁠יִּקַּ֥ח מֹשֶׁ֛ה אֶת־עַצְמ֥וֹת יוֹסֵ֖ף עִמּ֑⁠וֹ1

See Joshua 24:32 regarding the burial of Josephs bones.

1036EXO1319dnlpפָּקֹ֨ד 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.

1037EXO1320qob9מִ⁠סֻּכֹּ֑ת וַ⁠יַּחֲנ֣וּ בְ⁠אֵתָ֔ם1

Alternate translation: “from a place named Succoth, and they camped at a place named Etham”

1038EXO1320xq5dtranslate-namesבְ⁠אֵתָ֔ם1camped at Etham

Etham was possibly located south of the route heading toward the Philistines, at the border of the wilderness. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1039EXO1321yi2pfigs-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]])

1040EXO1321jnv8בְּ⁠עַמּ֤וּד עָנָן֙…בְּ⁠עַמּ֥וּד אֵ֖שׁ1pillar of cloud…pillar of fire

The possessive here indicates characteristic. The cloud and fire looked like a pillar. Alternate translation: “in a cloud that looked like a pillar … in a fire that looked like a pillar” or “in a pillar-shaped cloud … in a pillar-shaped fire”

1041EXO1321nr02לְ⁠הָאִ֣יר לָ⁠הֶ֑ם1

Alternate translation: “to be light for them”

1042EXO1321i7ylgrammar-connect-logic-resultאֵ֖שׁ לְ⁠הָאִ֣יר לָ⁠הֶ֑ם לָ⁠לֶ֖כֶת יוֹמָ֥ם וָ⁠לָֽיְלָה1

They could travel either by 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]])

1043EXO1322iiujעַמּ֤וּד הֶֽ⁠עָנָן֙ יוֹמָ֔ם וְ⁠עַמּ֥וּד הָ⁠אֵ֖שׁ לָ֑יְלָה1

See how you translated this in 13:21.

1044EXO1322qxksfigs-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]])

1045EXO14introjq4u0

Exodus 14 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

This whole chapter is the record of 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. Exodus 13:18 and 15:22 show 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 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]])

1046EXO142b5qqfigs-quotemarksדַּבֵּר֮1

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. There may be other quotations in this chapter; they will be marked by the same punctuation, but they will not have their own notes unless there is something unique about them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

1047EXO142mb4etranslate-namesפִּ֣י הַחִירֹ֔ת…מִגְדֹּ֖ל…בַּ֣עַל צְפֹ֔ן1Pi Hahiroth…Migdol…Baal Zephon

These are locations on Egypts eastern border. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1048EXO142ue2ofigs-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]])

1049EXO142c9r8figs-youdualתַחֲנ֖וּ1You 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]])

1050EXO143c81bfigs-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.

If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this as an indirect quotation. 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]])

1051EXO143tz6jfigs-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]])

1052EXO144dv62figs-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]])

1053EXO144tw2mוְ⁠רָדַ֣ף אַחֲרֵי⁠הֶם֒1he will pursue them

Alternate translation: “and Pharaoh will pursue the Israelites”

1054EXO144d5x1figs-activepassiveוְ⁠אִכָּבְדָ֤ה1I will get honor

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “And people will glorify me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1055EXO144a7m2figs-ellipsisוְ⁠אִכָּבְדָ֤ה בְּ⁠פַרְעֹה֙ וּ⁠בְ⁠כָל־חֵיל֔⁠וֹ1

Yahweh is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If your readers might misunderstand this, 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]])

1056EXO144dms1figs-explicitוַ⁠יַּֽעֲשׂוּ־כֵֽן1So the Israelites camped as they were instructed

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express what they did explicitly. Alternate translation: “So the Israelites turned and camped as Yahweh had instructed them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1057EXO145t4cnfigs-activepassiveוַ⁠יֻּגַּד֙ לְ⁠מֶ֣לֶךְ מִצְרַ֔יִם1When the king of Egypt was told

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Then someone told the king of Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1058EXO145it5sבָרַ֖ח1had fled

Alternate translation: “had run away”

1059EXO145k67bfigs-metonymyוַ֠⁠יֵּהָפֵךְ לְבַ֨ב פַּרְעֹ֤ה וַ⁠עֲבָדָי⁠ו֙ אֶל־הָ⁠עָ֔ם1the minds of Pharaoh and his servants turned against the people

Here, heart refers to their attitudes toward the Israelites. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “and Pharaoh and his servants changed their attitude about the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1060EXO145go8ufigs-activepassiveוַ֠⁠יֵּהָפֵךְ לְבַ֨ב פַּרְעֹ֤ה וַ⁠עֲבָדָי⁠ו֙ אֶל־הָ⁠עָ֔ם1

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and Pharaoh and his servants turned their hearts to the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1061EXO145wljwאֶל־הָ⁠עָ֔ם1

Alternate translation: “against the Israelites”

1062EXO145v236figs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “We should not have let the Israelites go free from working for us!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1063EXO145dnj3grammar-collectivenounsיִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל1

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]])

1064EXO147ry11translate-numbersשֵׁשׁ־מֵא֥וֹת1He took six hundred chosen chariots

Alternate translation: “six hundred” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1065EXO147g2d9וְ⁠שָׁלִשִׁ֖ם1

The precise meaning of this term is not known. Alternate translations: “and officers” or “and shield-bearers” or “and three men”

1066EXO148a1r1figs-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]])

1067EXO148doa5בְּ⁠יָ֥ד רָמָֽה1

Alternate translation: “boldly” or “defiantly”

1068EXO149x9x0כָּל־סוּס֙ רֶ֣כֶב פַּרְעֹ֔ה וּ⁠פָרָשָׁ֖י⁠ו וְ⁠חֵיל֑⁠וֹ1

It is unclear exactly what the groupings are here. 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”

1069EXO149q0jowriting-pronounsאוֹתָ⁠ם֙1

Here, them refers to the Israelites. Alternate translation: “the Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

1070EXO149sb7xtranslate-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]])

1071EXO1410s1xafigs-synecdocheוּ⁠פַרְעֹ֖ה הִקְרִ֑יב1When Pharaoh came close

Here, Pharaoh represents the entire Egyptian army. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could translate the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Then Pharaoh and his army approached” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1072EXO1410vyp9וַ⁠יִּשְׂאוּ֩ בְנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֨ל אֶת־עֵינֵי⁠הֶ֜ם1

Alternate translation: “and the sons of Israel looked up” or “and the sons of Israel looked back”

1073EXO1410qcy1וְ⁠הִנֵּ֥ה1they were terrified

Here, behold is used to draw attention to alarming information that follows. Use a word, phrase, or structure in your language that indicates that the next information is very alarming.

1074EXO1411vzw5figs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. 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]])

1075EXO1411x4n2figs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You should not have endangered us like this by bringing us out of Egypt!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1076EXO1412itb2figs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “This is exactly what we told you while we were in Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1077EXO1412ix25figs-quotationsבְ⁠מִצְרַ֨יִם֙ לֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר חֲדַ֥ל מִמֶּ֖⁠נּוּ וְ⁠נַֽעַבְדָ֣ה אֶת־מִצְרָ֑יִם1We said to you, Leave us alone, so we can work for the Egyptians.

If it would be more natural in your language, you could express the portion following saying as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “in Egypt? We told you to leave us alone so we could serve the Egyptians.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

1078EXO1413phy1figs-abstractnounsוּ⁠רְאוּ֙ אֶת־יְשׁוּעַ֣ת יְהוָ֔ה אֲשֶׁר־יַעֲשֶׂ֥ה לָ⁠כֶ֖ם הַ⁠יּ֑וֹם1

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of salvation, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “and see what Yahweh will do for you today, he will save you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1079EXO1413rrd4לֹ֥א 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”

1080EXO1414vcdcfigs-rpronounsיְהוָ֖ה יִלָּחֵ֣ם1

The form Yahweh himself emphasizes what Yahweh will do in contrast to what the Israelites will do. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “As for Yahweh, he will fight” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

1081EXO1414hx1fתַּחֲרִישֽׁוּ⁠ן1

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”

1082EXO1415a727figs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Do not call out to me any longer, Moses.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1083EXO1416stlaהָרֵ֣ם אֶֽת־מַטְּ⁠ךָ֗ וּ⁠נְטֵ֧ה אֶת־יָדְ⁠ךָ֛1divide it in two

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding hand and staff.

1084EXO1416t3e4וּ⁠בְקָעֵ֑⁠הוּ1divide it in two

Alternate translation: “and divide the sea into two parts”

1085EXO1417z5ubוַ⁠אֲנִ֗י הִנְ⁠נִ֤י1Be aware

Here, behold me is an expression 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”

1086EXO1417qd3lfigs-metaphorמְחַזֵּק֙ אֶת־לֵ֣ב מִצְרַ֔יִם1I will harden the Egyptians hearts

This means that 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]])

1087EXO1417asz9וְ⁠יָבֹ֖אוּ אַחֲרֵי⁠הֶ֑ם1so they will go after them

Alternate translation: “so that the Egyptians will go into the sea after the Israelites”

1088EXO1417hjyhfigs-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 your readers might misunderstand this, 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]])

1089EXO1417asfqfigs-activepassiveוְ⁠אִכָּבְדָ֤ה1so they will go after them

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “And people will glorify me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1090EXO1418ytnmfigs-activepassiveבְּ⁠הִכָּבְדִ֣⁠י1so they will go after them

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “when I cause people to glorify me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1091EXO1418cji1figs-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 your readers might misunderstand this, 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]])

1092EXO1419hsihfigs-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]])

1093EXO1419m1doעַמּ֤וּד הֶֽ⁠עָנָן֙1so they will go after them

See how you translated this in 13:21.

1094EXO1419ysv9grammar-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]])

1095EXO1420jyz2grammar-collectivenounsיִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל1so 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]])

1096EXO1420c4u5וַ⁠יְהִ֤י הֶֽ⁠עָנָן֙ וְ⁠הַ⁠חֹ֔שֶׁךְ וַ⁠יָּ֖אֶר אֶת־הַ⁠לָּ֑יְלָה1so one side did not come near the other

Alternate translation: “And the cloud became dark on one side and light on the other side all night”

1097EXO1421qbzpוַ⁠יֵּ֨ט מֹשֶׁ֣ה אֶת־יָד⁠וֹ֮ עַל־הַ⁠יָּם֒1east wind

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

1098EXO1421dfx5בְּ⁠ר֨וּחַ קָדִ֤ים1east wind

An east wind originates in the east and blows towards the west.

1099EXO1421f9zhfigs-activepassiveוַ⁠יִּבָּקְע֖וּ הַ⁠מָּֽיִם1the waters were divided

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “And Yahweh divided the waters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1100EXO1424iz9ttranslate-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]])

1101EXO1424kjg9בְּ⁠עַמּ֥וּד אֵ֖שׁ וְ⁠עָנָ֑ן1He caused panic among the Egyptians

See how you translated this in 13:21.

1102EXO1424zyp4מַחֲנֵ֣ה מִצְרַ֔יִם…מַחֲנֵ֥ה מִצְרָֽיִם1He caused panic among the Egyptians

Alternate translation: “the army of the Egyptians … the army of the Egyptians”

1103EXO1425qzkwfigs-metonymyמִ⁠פְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל1Their chariot wheels were clogged

Here, the face of Israel means the presence of Israel. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1104EXO1426p5dsfigs-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.”

If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this as an indirect quotation. 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]])

1105EXO1426pw8gנְטֵ֥ה 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.

1106EXO1426d46ywriting-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]])

1107EXO1427wn3qוַ⁠יֵּט֩ מֹשֶׁ֨ה אֶת־יָד֜⁠וֹ עַל־הַ⁠יָּ֗ם1The Egyptians fled into the sea

See note in the introduction to chapter 8 regarding the hand and staff.

1108EXO1427cosafigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנ֥וֹת בֹּ֨קֶר֙1The Egyptians fled into the sea

Here, before the face of means “before the occurrence of.” If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “before it was morning” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1109EXO1427h64rfigs-metaphorוַ⁠יְנַעֵ֧ר יְהוָ֛ה אֶת־מִצְרַ֖יִם בְּ⁠ת֥וֹךְ הַ⁠יָּֽם1Yahweh drove the Egyptians

Here, Yahweh is pictured as acting toward the Egyptians as if they were dirt or dust on his clothing that he shakes to be rid of them. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “and Yahweh threw the Egyptians back into the middle of the sea” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1110EXO1428o9qofigs-litotesלֹֽא־נִשְׁאַ֥ר בָּ⁠הֶ֖ם עַד־אֶחָֽד1Yahweh drove the Egyptians

This negative statement is meant to strongly convey the idea that all the Egyptians were gone. If this is confusing in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “Every one of them was gone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

1111EXO1430zvbegrammar-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]])

1112EXO1430e2lffigs-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]])

1113EXO1430p5zwעַל־שְׂפַ֥ת הַ⁠יָּֽם1on the seashore

Alternate translation: “on the land along the edge of the sea”

1114EXO1431o1ocgrammar-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]])

1115EXO1431np6sfigs-metonymyאֶת־הַ⁠יָּ֣ד הַ⁠גְּדֹלָ֗ה1on the seashore

Here, hand refers to power. Alternate translation: “the great power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1116EXO15introni4b0

Exodus 15 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Verses 1b-18 and 21b of chapter 15 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 in his own language. Unlike in many other places, most notes in this chapter will not advise towards expressing meaning in non-figurative ways or combining parallel phrases as that advice would be too simplistic for handling poetry.

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 verbal forms (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 enemys 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]])

1117EXO151kw29figs-explicitגָאֹ֣ה גָּאָ֔ה1he has triumphed gloriously

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state 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]])

1118EXO151bpyjגָאֹ֣ה גָּאָ֔ה1he has triumphed gloriously

Alternate translation: “he is highly exalted” or “he is extremely high” or “he is exaltedly exalted”

1119EXO151f6uefigs-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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “he has made the horse and rider drown in the sea” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1120EXO151cr5ufigs-genericnounס֥וּס וְ⁠רֹכְב֖⁠וֹ1the horse and its rider

This refers to many or all 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]])

1121EXO151ex3pוְ⁠רֹכְב֖⁠וֹ1rider

Here, rider could either refer to a person who sits on a horse or who travels in a chariot that a horse is pulling.

1122EXO152pb23figs-metaphorעָזִּ֤⁠י…יָ֔הּ1Yahweh is my strength

Moses is expressing the help that he gets from Yahweh by equating Yahweh with strength. Use a form or metaphor from your language that would express Yahwehs strengthening help. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “Yah is the one who gives me strength” or “Yah is the strong one who protects me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1123EXO152vk6lfigs-metaphorוְ⁠זִמְרָת֙ יָ֔הּ1song

Moses calls Yahweh his song because Yahweh is the one he sings about or because Yahweh causes him to sing. Use a form or metaphor from your language that would express Yahweh being a song of joy. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “Yah is … the one I sing about” or “Yah … makes me sing joyfully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1124EXO152kbv7figs-metaphorוַֽ⁠יְהִי־לִ֖⁠י לִֽ⁠ישׁוּעָ֑ה1he has become my salvation

Moses calls Yahweh his salvation because Yahweh saved him. Use a form or metaphor from your language that would express Yahwehs saving power. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “and he has saved me” or “and he is the one who saves me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1125EXO152rgtufigs-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]])

1126EXO153p1d5figs-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]])

1127EXO154pc8dfigs-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]])

1128EXO154p8w6figs-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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “He has made Pharaohs chariot riders and army drown in the sea” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1129EXO155yefefigs-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]])

1130EXO155nqe4figs-simileיָרְד֥וּ בִ⁠מְצוֹלֹ֖ת כְּמוֹ־אָֽבֶן1they went down into the depths like a stone

This comparison is that 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]])

1131EXO156jx52figs-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]])

1132EXO156x1fzfigs-metonymyיְמִֽינְ⁠ךָ֣ יְהוָ֔ה נֶאְדָּרִ֖י בַּ⁠כֹּ֑חַ יְמִֽינְ⁠ךָ֥ יְהוָ֖ה תִּרְעַ֥ץ אוֹיֵֽב1Your 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. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh, your power is glorious; Yahweh, your power has shattered the enemy” or “Yahweh, what you do is gloriously powerful; Yahweh, by your power you have shattered the enemy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1133EXO156rmd4figs-metaphorתִּרְעַ֥ץ אוֹיֵֽב1has shattered the enemy

Moses speaks of the enemy as if it were fragile and could be shattered like glass or pottery. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “completely destroys the enemy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1134EXO157i2x4figs-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]])

1135EXO157kmv4figs-abstractnounsוּ⁠בְ⁠רֹ֥ב גְּאוֹנְ⁠ךָ֖1those who rose up against you

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of abundance and majesty, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “You are abundantly majestic and” or “Because you are abundantly majestic,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1136EXO157nd3tfigs-metaphorקָמֶ֑י⁠ךָ1those who rose up against you

Rebelling against Yahweh is spoken of as rising up against him. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “those who rebel against you” or “your enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1137EXO157kst4חֲרֹ֣נְ⁠ךָ֔1You sent out your wrath

Alternate translation: “your wrath” or “your fury”

1138EXO157glq7figs-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 act according to your wrath” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

1139EXO157a5x7figs-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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “it completely destroys your enemies like a fire that burns up straw” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1140EXO157guapfigs-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 devours the enemy as if they were stubble” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1141EXO158ic8vfigs-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]])

1142EXO158qg9gfigs-activepassiveוּ⁠בְ⁠ר֤וּחַ אַפֶּ֨י⁠ךָ֙ נֶ֣עֶרְמוּ מַ֔יִם נִצְּב֥וּ כְמוֹ־נֵ֖ד נֹזְלִ֑ים1By the blast of your nostrils

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The blast from your nostrils piled the waters up and made the flowing waters stand upright in a heap” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1143EXO158tguhfigs-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]])

1144EXO158uevtfigs-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]])

1145EXO159d8nkfigs-activepassiveתִּמְלָאֵ֣⁠מוֹ נַפְשִׁ֔⁠י1my desire will be satisfied on them

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I will satisfy my desire on them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1146EXO159lu0eתּוֹרִישֵׁ֖⁠מוֹ 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 to 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. It could also refer to taking away their life and breath. 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” or “my hand will kill them”

1147EXO159sm77figs-metonymyתּוֹרִישֵׁ֖⁠מוֹ יָדִֽ⁠י1my hand will destroy them

Here hand is used figuratively of the Egyptians power (that is, their military strength). If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “I will dispossess them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1148EXO1510yrj5figs-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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “But you made the wind blow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1149EXO1510f7d3figs-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 quickly 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]])

1150EXO1511wq2sfigs-rquestionמִֽי־כָמֹ֤⁠כָה בָּֽ⁠אֵלִם֙ יְהוָ֔ה1Who is like you, Yahweh, among the gods?

Moses uses this question to show how great God is. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. 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]])

1151EXO1511pp57figs-rquestionמִ֥י כָּמֹ֖⁠כָה נֶאְדָּ֣ר בַּ⁠קֹּ֑דֶשׁ נוֹרָ֥א תְהִלֹּ֖ת עֹ֥שֵׂה פֶֽלֶא1Who is like you,…doing miracles?

Moses uses this question to show how great God is. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. 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]])

1152EXO1511uhfjfigs-abstractnounsנֶאְדָּ֣ר בַּ⁠קֹּ֑דֶשׁ1Who is like you,…doing miracles?

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of holiness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “majestic and holy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1153EXO1512cid8figs-metonymyיְמִ֣ינְ⁠ךָ֔1with 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]])

1154EXO1512bkg2figs-metaphorנָטִ֨יתָ֙ יְמִ֣ינְ⁠ךָ֔1You reached out with your right hand

Moses speaks about God causing something to happen as if God reached out with his** hand**. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “With your strong power you made it happen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1155EXO1512g7bvfigs-personificationתִּבְלָעֵ֖⁠מוֹ אָֽרֶץ1the earth swallowed them

Moses personifies the earth as if it could swallow or devour with its mouth. Alternate translation: “the earth devours them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

1156EXO1513cveafigs-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]])

1157EXO1513znbrfigs-abstractnounsקָדְשֶֽׁ⁠ךָ1the earth swallowed them

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of holiness, you could express the same idea in another way. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1158EXO1514qlpyfigs-parallelism0tremble

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]])

1159EXO1514zi1mfigs-explicitיִרְגָּז֑וּ⁠ן1tremble

This means to shake with fear. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1160EXO1514uqf7figs-personificationחִ֣יל אָחַ֔ז יֹשְׁבֵ֖י פְּלָֽשֶׁת1terror will seize the inhabitants of Philistia

Moses speaks of anguish 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]])

1161EXO1515qyixfigs-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]])

1162EXO1515ya48figs-metaphorנָמֹ֕גוּ1will melt away

Moses uses the phrase, melted away, to speak of people becoming weak because of their fear. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “became weak from fear” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1163EXO1516nk67figs-doubletתִּפֹּ֨ל עֲלֵי⁠הֶ֤ם אֵימָ֨תָ⁠ה֙ וָ⁠פַ֔חַד1Terror and dread will fall on them

Terror and dread form a doublet meaning “extremely fearful.” If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “They will become extremely fearful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

1164EXO1516kbt5figs-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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “They will be overwhelmed with feelings of terror and dread” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1165EXO1516t2ypfigs-metonymyבִּ⁠גְדֹ֥ל זְרוֹעֲ⁠ךָ֖1Because of your arms power

Yahwehs arm represents his great strength. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “Because of your great strength” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1166EXO1516umm7figs-simileיִדְּמ֣וּ כָּ⁠אָ֑בֶן1they will become as still as a stone

This could mean: (1) “they will be silent like stone” or (2) “they will be motionless as stone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1167EXO1517n5i5figs-explicitתְּבִאֵ֗⁠מוֹ וְ⁠תִטָּעֵ֨⁠מוֹ֙1You will bring them

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express where God would bring them explicitly. Alternate translation: “You will take your people to Canaan and plant them there” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1168EXO1517u26jfigs-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]])

1169EXO1517t6wgfigs-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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “and you will settle them on the mountain of” or “and you will let them live on the mountain of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1170EXO1517p7kbבְּ⁠הַ֣ר נַחֲלָֽתְ⁠ךָ֔1the mountain of your inheritance

This refers to Mount Zion in the land of Canaan.

1171EXO1517ie26figs-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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “on the mountain that you have given them as an inheritance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1172EXO1517ytz3figs-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]])

1173EXO1518ue6pיְהוָ֥ה׀ יִמְלֹ֖ךְ לְ⁠עֹלָ֥ם וָ⁠עֶֽד1that your hands have built

Alternate translation: “Yahweh reigns forever and ever”

1174EXO1520gam2translate-unknownהַ⁠תֹּ֖ף…בְּ⁠תֻפִּ֖ים1tambourine

A tambourine is a hand-held musical instrument like a small drum that also has pieces of metal around the side that make a metallic rattling sound when shaken. Alternate translation: “timbrel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1175EXO1520hut1figs-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]])

1176EXO1521f6m3figs-explicitגָאֹ֣ה גָּאָ֔ה1he has triumphed gloriously

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state 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]])

1177EXO1521hvu1figs-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 the one riding it as if God had thrown them into the sea. See how you translated this in Exodus 15:1. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “he has made the horse and rider drown in the sea” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1178EXO1522iw9ngrammar-collectivenounsיִשְׂרָאֵל֙1Moses led Israel

The word Israel represents the people of Israel. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternate translation: “Moses led the Israelite people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

1179EXO1522c7petranslate-namesמִדְבַּר־שׁ֑וּר1wilderness of Shur

We do not know the exact location of this place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1180EXO1523a9pvtranslate-namesמָרָ֔תָ⁠ה1Marah

We do not know the exact location of Marah. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1181EXO1524n64mוַ⁠יִּלֹּ֧נוּ 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 complained against Moses” or “And the people grumbled at Moses”

1182EXO1526l2hxfigs-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]])

1183EXO1526oh8cfigs-metonymyלְ⁠ק֣וֹל׀ יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהֶ֗י⁠ךָ1the voice of Yahweh your God

Yahwehs voice represents what he says. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “to what I say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1184EXO1526sq5xfigs-idiomוְ⁠הַ⁠יָּשָׁ֤ר בְּ⁠עֵינָי⁠ו֙ תַּעֲשֶׂ֔ה1do what is right in his eyes

The eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent idiom from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “and do what Yahweh considers to be right” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1185EXO1526bgcffigs-idiomוְ⁠הַֽאֲזַנְתָּ֙ לְ⁠מִצְוֺתָ֔י⁠ו1do what is right in his eyes

The ear represents listening, and listening represents obeying. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent idiom from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “and you carefully obey his commands” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1186EXO1526m4cnfigs-idiomכָּֽל־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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent idiom from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. 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-idiom]])

1187EXO1527did8translate-namesאֵילִ֔מָ⁠ה1Elim

Elim is an oasis in the desert, a place with water and shade trees. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1188EXO1527p64ytranslate-numbersוְ⁠שִׁבְעִ֣ים1seventy

Alternate translation: “and seventy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1189EXO16intronkd70

Exodus 16 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

This entire chapter is the story of the Israelites complaining about food and Yahweh providing food. Verses 22-30 introduce the Sabbath.

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://en/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).

Box 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]])

1190EXO161gw67translate-namesסִ֔ין1wilderness 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]])

1191EXO161h44xtranslate-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. You could convert the Hebrew day and month into an approximate date on the calendar that your culture uses. However, the Jews used a lunar calendar, so if you use a solar calendar, the date will be different every year and the translation will not be entirely accurate. So you may just want to give the number of the day and the name of the month on the Hebrew calendar, and say approximately what time of year that is on your calendar in a footnote.(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths]])

1192EXO161u2aqtranslate-ordinalבַּ⁠חֲמִשָּׁ֨ה עָשָׂ֥ר יוֹם֙ לַ⁠חֹ֣דֶשׁ הַ⁠שֵּׁנִ֔י1on the fifteenth day of the second month

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “on day 15 of month 2” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1193EXO162h938figs-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]])

1194EXO162nx6fוַיִּלּ֜וֹנוּ1complained

Alternate translation: “And … spoke angrily”

1195EXO163nwy6figs-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. Translate it in a way that makes it clear that this did not actually happen. Alternate translation: “We wish that we had died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])

1196EXO163g1n1figs-metonymyבְ⁠יַד־יְהוָה֙1by Yahwehs hand

The phrase the hand of Yahweh represents Yahwehs action. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “by Yahwehs action” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1197EXO164kls5figs-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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. 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]])

1198EXO164yew5בְּ⁠תוֹרָתִ֖⁠י1my law

Alternate translation: “in my instruction”

1199EXO165p1f6וְ⁠הָיָה֙ בַּ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠שִּׁשִּׁ֔י וְ⁠הֵכִ֖ינוּ1It will come about on the sixth day, that they

Alternate translation: “It will happen on the sixth day that they will prepare” or “On the sixth day they will prepare”

1200EXO165cl74translate-ordinalבַּ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠שִּׁשִּׁ֔י1on the sixth day

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “on day 6” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1201EXO165t5ilמִשְׁנֶ֔ה1twice

two times

1202EXO167zb21figs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. 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]])

1203EXO168pn4efigs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Aaron and I cannot give you what you want.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1204EXO168vdr8figs-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. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. 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]])

1205EXO169pqgofigs-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 quotations 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]])

1206EXO1610q4axוַ⁠יְהִ֗י1It 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.

1207EXO1610b6rpוְ⁠הִנֵּה֙1behold

The word behold here shows that the people saw something extraordinary.

1208EXO1613aas8וַ⁠יְהִ֣י1It 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.

1209EXO1613eu1xtranslate-unknownהַ⁠שְּׂלָ֔ו1quails

The word quail means a type of small, plump game bird. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1210EXO1614k5lbtranslate-unknownכַּ⁠כְּפֹ֖ר1like frost

Frost is frozen dew that forms on the ground. It is very fine. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1211EXO1614jernfigs-simileכַּ⁠כְּפֹ֖ר1like frost

The original readers knew what frost is like, so this phrase would help them understand what the flakes were like. Alternate translation: “flakes that looked like frost” or “flakes that were fine like frost” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1212EXO1616gotfאִ֖ישׁ לְ⁠פִ֣י אָכְל֑⁠וֹ1omer

Alternate translation: “according to how much each will eat”

1213EXO1616fqp9translate-bvolumeעֹ֣מֶר1omer

2 liters (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume]])

1214EXO1616mnwyעֹ֣מֶר לַ⁠גֻּלְגֹּ֗לֶת מִסְפַּר֙ נַפְשֹׁ֣תֵי⁠כֶ֔ם אִ֛ישׁ לַ⁠אֲשֶׁ֥ר בְּ⁠אָהֳל֖⁠וֹ תִּקָּֽחוּ1omer

Alternate translation: “take an omer per person according to how many people are in the gatherers tent”

1215EXO1619v499figs-genericnounאִ֕ישׁ אַל1omer

A man refers to people in general, not to one particular man. If this would be misunderstood in your language, use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “No one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])

1216EXO1620itjoוַ⁠יָּ֥רֻם תּוֹלָעִ֖ים1omer

Alternate translation: “and it decayed with worms”

1217EXO1621jd5tאִ֖ישׁ כְּ⁠פִ֣י אָכְל֑⁠וֹ1omer

Alternate translation: “everyone according to how much they would eat” or “everyone according to how many people they had to feed”

1218EXO1622nrx8writing-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]])

1219EXO1622xk6xtranslate-ordinalבַּ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠שִּׁשִּׁ֗י1on the sixth day

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “on day 6” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1220EXO1622zj1uמִשְׁנֶ֔ה1twice

Alternate translation: “two times as much”

1221EXO1622f4j9לֶ֨חֶם֙1bread

This refers to the bread that appeared as thin flakes on the ground each morning.

1222EXO1623wc4aשַׁבָּת֧וֹן שַׁבַּת־קֹ֛דֶשׁ לַֽ⁠יהוָ֖ה1a solemn rest

Alternate translation: “is a day to stop working completely and dedicate to Yahweh”

1223EXO1623cqjdfigs-abstractnounsשַׁבַּת־קֹ֛דֶשׁ1a solemn rest

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of holiness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “a holy Sabbath” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1224EXO1624y4d9וְ⁠לֹ֣א הִבְאִ֔ישׁ1did not become foul

Alternate translation: “And it did not smell rotten”

1225EXO1625pr1pכִּֽי־שַׁבָּ֥ת הַ⁠יּ֖וֹם לַ⁠יהוָ֑ה1today is a day reserved as a Sabbath to honor Yahweh

Alternate translation: “today is a Sabbath, a day to honor Yahweh by not working”

1226EXO1626jv77translate-ordinalוּ⁠בַ⁠יּ֧וֹם הַ⁠שְּׁבִיעִ֛י1but the seventh day

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “but on day seven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1227EXO1627qf14וְ⁠לֹ֖א מָצָֽאוּ1they found none

Alternate translation: “but they did not find any manna”

1228EXO1628e1vxfigs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You people still do not keep my commandments and laws!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1229EXO1628q41dfigs-youcrowdמֵֽאַנְתֶּ֔ם1General Information:

Yahweh speaks to Moses, but the word you refers to the people of Israel in general. If the singular form would not be natural in your language for someone who was speaking to a group of people, you could use the plural forms of “you” in your translation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd]])

1230EXO1628vnq7לִ⁠שְׁמֹ֥ר מִצְוֺתַ֖⁠י וְ⁠תוֹרֹתָֽ⁠י1to keep my commandments and my laws

Alternate translation: “to obey my commandments and my laws”

1231EXO1629p22lfigs-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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “I, Yahweh, have taught you to rest on the Sabbath” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1232EXO1629dt58translate-ordinalבַּ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠שִּׁשִּׁ֖י…בַּ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠שְּׁבִיעִֽי1sixth day…two days…seventh day

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “on day 6 … on day 7” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1233EXO1629y8wfלֶ֣חֶם1bread

This refers to the bread that appeared as thin flakes on the ground each morning.

1234EXO1629x6ghיוֹמָ֑יִם1bread

Alternate translation: “for 2 days”

1235EXO1631r1a5translate-unknownכְּ⁠זֶ֤רַע גַּד֙ לָבָ֔ן1coriander seed

Coriander is an herb also known as cilantro. People eat both the leaves and seeds. People dry the seeds, grind them into a powder, and put it in food to add flavor. Alternate translation: “like a small white seed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1236EXO1631vrl4כְּ⁠צַפִּיחִ֥ת1wafers

Wafers are very thin biscuits or crackers.

1237EXO1633ggbafigs-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]])

1238EXO1634x9vrwriting-background0wafers

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]])

1239EXO1634jzczfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֥י הָ⁠עֵדֻ֖ת1wafers

Here, face figuratively represents being near the Covenant. Alternate translation: “near the Covenant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1240EXO1636g8nstranslate-bvolumeוְ⁠הָ⁠עֹ֕מֶר עֲשִׂרִ֥ית הָ⁠אֵיפָ֖ה הֽוּא1Now an omer is a tenth of an ephah

An omer and an ephah are both units of dry measurement. An ephah is approximately equal to a bushel, and an omer is one-tenth of an ephah. 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]])

1241EXO1636a9uhtranslate-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]])

1242EXO17introf12q0

7# Exodus 17 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

  • v. 1-7: the Israelites complain and Yahweh gives them water
  • v. 8-16: Israel defeats Amalek in battle

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 shows 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 the act of 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 altar named “Yahweh is my Banner,” because Yahweh will be at war with the Amalekites forever.

1243EXO171jzz5writing-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]])

1244EXO171h1litranslate-namesסִ֛ין1wilderness 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]])

1245EXO171e7jvfigs-metonymyעַל־פִּ֣י יְהוָ֑ה1wilderness of Sin

Here, mouth refers figuratively to Yahwehs commands (that is, what he says to do). If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “at the command of Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1246EXO171j1fmtranslate-namesבִּ⁠רְפִידִ֔ים1Rephidim

Rephidim means “the resting place,” a place to rest on long journeys through the wilderness. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1247EXO172hr9bfigs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Why are you speaking against me? And why are you trying to test whether Yahweh is able to give you what you need?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1248EXO173cz24figs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Why did you bring us up out of Egypt? Did you bring us here to cause us and our children and animals to die because we have no water to drink?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1249EXO176nspcfigs-metonymyלְ⁠פָנֶ֨י⁠ךָ1To kill us and our children and our cattle with thirst?

Here, before your face means “in front of you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1250EXO177x5antranslate-namesמַסָּ֖ה1Massah

Massah is a place in the desert whose name means “testing” in Hebrew. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1251EXO177hw7ytranslate-namesוּ⁠מְרִיבָ֑ה1Meribah

Meribah is a place in the desert whose name means “complaining” in Hebrew. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1252EXO177m55eאִם־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.

1253EXO178nyt1writing-neweventוַ⁠יָּבֹ֖א עֲמָלֵ֑ק1Rephidim

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]])

1254EXO178pu7ifigs-metonymyעֲמָלֵ֑ק…יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל1Rephidim

Amalek and Israel both refer to the nations (people groups) descended from that individual by simply using the name of the ancestor. If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “the Amalekites … the Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1255EXO178hi3ugrammar-collectivenounsעֲמָלֵ֑ק…יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל1Rephidim

Amalek and Israel are both collective nouns that refer to the nations (people groups) descended from that individual. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the Amalekites … the Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

1256EXO178srdqwriting-participantsעֲמָלֵ֑ק1Rephidim

Amalek or the Amalekites are a completely new participant in the story. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new character. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

1257EXO178rv14translate-namesבִּ⁠רְפִידִֽם1Rephidim

Rephidim was the name of a place in the desert. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1258EXO179dsccwriting-participantsיְהוֹשֻׁ֨עַ֙1Rephidim

Joshua is a completely new participant in the story. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new character. Later he becomes a major character, but not really in the book of Exodus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

1259EXO1710ca3gfigs-synecdocheוַ⁠יַּ֣עַשׂ יְהוֹשֻׁ֗עַ כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֤ר אָֽמַר־ל⁠וֹ֙ מֹשֶׁ֔ה לְ⁠הִלָּחֵ֖ם בַּ⁠עֲמָלֵ֑ק1So Joshua fought Amalek

Joshua represents himself and the Israelites that he led into battle. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could translate the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “And, as Moses instructed, Joshua and the men he chose fought against the Amalekites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1260EXO1710wy51translate-namesוְ⁠ח֔וּר1Hur

Hur was the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1261EXO1710itcxwriting-participantsוְ⁠ח֔וּר1Hur

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]])

1262EXO1711x5exfigs-synecdocheוְ⁠גָבַ֣ר יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל…וְ⁠גָבַ֥ר עֲמָלֵֽק1Israel was winning…Amalek would begin to win

The words Israel and Amalek represent the fighters from those groups. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could translate the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the Israelite fighters were winning … the Amalekite fighters would begin to win” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1263EXO1712hxt8figs-idiomוִ⁠ידֵ֤י מֹשֶׁה֙ כְּבֵדִ֔ים1hands became heavy

The author writes of Moses arms becoming tired as if his hands became heavy. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “And Moses arms became tired” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1264EXO1712js2pמִ⁠זֶּ֤ה אֶחָד֙ וּ⁠מִ⁠זֶּ֣ה אֶחָ֔ד1hands became heavy

Alternate translation: “one on one side, and one on the other”

1265EXO1713plp3figs-metonymyלְ⁠פִי־חָֽרֶב1with the sword

The sword represents battle. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “in combat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1266EXO1714c5rlfigs-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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “I will completely destroy Amalek” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1267EXO1714jm77figs-metonymyעֲמָלֵ֔ק1Amalek

The Amalekites are referred to by naming their ancestor. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: Amalekites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1268EXO1714n42jfigs-hyperboleמִ⁠תַּ֖חַת הַ⁠שָּׁמָֽיִם1Amalek

This phrase makes an intentionally broad image and represents all people everywhere. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “from all people everywhere” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

1269EXO1715fnegנִסִּֽ⁠י1Amalek

A 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”

1270EXO1716lr14כִּֽי־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 Hebrew 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”

1271EXO1716sw1qמִלְחָמָ֥ה 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”

1272EXO18introt8g20

Exodus 18 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

  • v. 1-12: Jethro visits Moses and hears all that Yahweh has done
  • v. 13-27: Jethro observes Moses and advises him to set up a subsidiarity leadership structure; Moses does so

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 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

In this chapter, God, who is named Yahweh in much of the rest of the book, is mostly referred to as God instead of by his name as is usual. 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/translate-kinship]])

Participant reference

Jethro is often referred to simply as the father-in-law of Moses in this chapter. He is also named explicitly (referred to by name) an unusually high number of times (it would be more usual to have more pronouns referring to him). Frequent use of his name is likely to emphasize his familial ties and authority (or honored status). Some languages may need to alter the way he is referred to for naturalness or to convey the same sense of familial ties and authority (or honored status).

1273EXO181nl86translate-kinshipחֹתֵ֣ן מֹשֶׁ֔ה1Moses father-in-law

The label, father-in-law of Moses refers to the father of the wife of Moses. If your language uses a different term for a mans father-in-law than for a womans father-in-law, choose the appropriate one here. Note the use of this term 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/translate-kinship]])

1274EXO182zw6hוַ⁠יִּקַּ֗ח יִתְרוֹ֙ חֹתֵ֣ן מֹשֶׁ֔ה אֶת־צִפֹּרָ֖ה אֵ֣שֶׁת מֹשֶׁ֑ה1took Zipporah, Moses wife

This could mean: (1) Jethro took Zipporah to Moses, or (2) Jethro had earlier welcomed back Zipporah.

1275EXO182chy6figs-explicitאַחַ֖ר שִׁלּוּחֶֽי⁠הָ1after he had sent her home

This is something Moses had done earlier. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “after Moses had sent her home to her father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1276EXO183khs1וְ⁠אֵ֖ת שְׁנֵ֣י בָנֶ֑י⁠הָ1and her two sons

This is the ending of the sentence that begins with the words Jethro … took Zipporah in verse 2. This could mean: (1) Jethro took Zipporah and her two sons to Moses, or (2) Jethro had earlier welcomed back Zipporah and her two sons.

1277EXO183k4mbtranslate-namesגֵּֽרְשֹׁ֔ם1Gershom

Gershom is a son of Moses and Zipporah; his name means “foreigner.” See 2:22. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1278EXO184xi35translate-namesאֱלִיעֶ֑זֶר1Eliezer

Eliezer is a son of Moses and Zipporah; his name means “God is the one who helps me.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1279EXO184z2kmfigs-metonymyמֵ⁠חֶ֥רֶב פַּרְעֹֽה1Pharaohs sword

The phrase from the sword of Pharaoh represents being killed by Pharaoh or Pharaohs army. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “from being killed by Pharaoh” or “from being killed by Pharaohs army” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1280EXO185zzabוּ⁠בָנָ֥י⁠ו1where he was camped

Alternate translation: “with his sons”

1281EXO187s5p2translate-symactionוַ⁠יִּשְׁתַּ֨חוּ֙ וַ⁠יִּשַּׁק־ל֔⁠וֹ1bowed down, and kissed him

These were symbolic acts that were the normal way that people showed great respect and devotion in that culture. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

1282EXO188rkq2figs-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]])

1283EXO188a1rafigs-metaphorכָּל־הַ⁠תְּלָאָה֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר מְצָאָ֣תַ⁠ם1all the hardships that had come to them

Moses writes of hardships happening to them as if hardships had discovered where they were. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. 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]])

1284EXO189wp1pfigs-metonymyמִ⁠יַּ֥ד מִצְרָֽיִם1the hand of the Egyptians

The hand represents the power of someone to do something. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “from the power of the Egyptians” or “from what the Egyptians were doing to them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1285EXO1810nrv7figs-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. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. 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]])

1286EXO1811kmk7כִּ֣י בַ⁠דָּבָ֔ר1the hand of the Egyptians…the hand of Pharaoh

Here, because of the matter probably refers back to Yahwehs rescue of Israel. Alternate translation: “because of what he did”

1287EXO1811ljj6figs-explicitאֲשֶׁ֥ר 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 (them). This would connect back to Exodus 12:12 where Yahweh declares that he is bringing 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]])

1288EXO1812voi9figs-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]])

1289EXO1813ni2bwriting-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]])

1290EXO1813ano2translate-symactionוַ⁠יֵּ֥שֶׁב מֹשֶׁ֖ה לִ⁠שְׁפֹּ֣ט1the hand of the Egyptians…the hand of Pharaoh

Sitting was symbolic of having a position of authority. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “Moses sat down as a judge” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

1291EXO1813wzeaמִן־הַ⁠בֹּ֖קֶר עַד־הָ⁠עָֽרֶב1the hand of the Egyptians…the hand of Pharaoh

Alternate translation: “all day”

1292EXO1814bax5figs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “You should not be doing all of this for the people!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1293EXO1814b5wjfigs-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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Why are you doing all this for the people? Why are you doing this by yourself, and why are all the people standing around you from morning until evening, asking you to make decisions for them?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1294EXO1814cfd1figs-metonymyאַתָּ֤ה יוֹשֵׁב֙ לְ⁠בַדֶּ֔⁠ךָ1you sit alone

The word sit here is a metonym for “judge.” Judges would sit while they listened to peoples complaints. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “do you judge alone” or “are you the only one who judges the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1295EXO1814tiqsfigs-explicitנִצָּ֥ב עָלֶ֖י⁠ךָ1you sit alone

The people came to be near Moses so that they could get a chance for him to hear their petitions. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “petition you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1296EXO1818jtd2נָבֹ֣ל תִּבֹּ֔ל1You will surely wear yourselves out

Alternate translation: “You will surely make yourself very tired”

1297EXO1818h91bfigs-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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “is too hard for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1298EXO1819pug7אִיעָ֣צְ⁠ךָ֔1you advice

Alternate translation: “I will guide you” or “I will instruct you”

1299EXO1819v8i9figs-metaphorוִ⁠יהִ֥י אֱלֹהִ֖ים עִמָּ֑⁠ךְ1God will be with you

Jethro speaks of God helping Moses as if God would be with Moses. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “God will help you” or “God will give you wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1300EXO1819w4r8figs-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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. 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]])

1301EXO1820w3vffigs-metaphorוְ⁠הוֹדַעְתָּ֣ לָ⁠הֶ֗ם אֶת־הַ⁠דֶּ֨רֶךְ֙ יֵ֣לְכוּ בָ֔⁠הּ1You must show them the way to walk

Jethro speaks of living or behaving like walking. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. 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]])

1302EXO1821p5apוְ⁠אַתָּ֣ה תֶחֱזֶ֣ה1Furthermore, you must choose

Alternate translation: “As for you, search out” or “You must also search out”

1303EXO1821n936figs-metaphorוְ⁠שַׂמְתָּ֣ עֲלֵ⁠הֶ֗ם1You must put them over people

Jethro speaks of giving them authority over people as putting them over people. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “You should select leaders for the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1304EXO1821xprcwriting-pronounsוְ⁠שַׂמְתָּ֣ עֲלֵ⁠הֶ֗ם1You must put them over people

Here, them refers to the Israelites. Moses is advised to place 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]])

1305EXO1821d2hvtranslate-numbersשָׂרֵ֤י אֲלָפִים֙ שָׂרֵ֣י מֵא֔וֹת שָׂרֵ֥י חֲמִשִּׁ֖ים וְ⁠שָׂרֵ֥י עֲשָׂרֹֽת1leaders in charge of thousands, hundreds, fifties, and of tens

This could mean: (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]])

1306EXO1822y5n2figs-metaphorכָּל־הַ⁠דָּבָ֤ר הַ⁠גָּדֹל֙ יָבִ֣יאוּ אֵלֶ֔י⁠ךָ1the difficult cases they will bring to you

By every great situation they will bring to you, Jethro is recommending that the new leaders should pass the most difficult cases to Moses for him to judge them. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. 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]])

1307EXO1822u42pfigs-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 beside Moses and make lighter for Moses by helping him. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “and lessen your work by having them do the hard work with you” or “and make your work easier by having them help you do the hard work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1308EXO1823wyq4וְ⁠יָֽכָלְתָּ֖ עֲמֹ֑ד1endure

Alternate translation: “then you will not wear yourself out”

1309EXO1823bt5pכָּל־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”

1310EXO1825n2wsfigs-metaphorרָאשִׁ֖ים עַל־הָ⁠עָ֑ם1heads over the people

Moses writes of the leaders of people as if they were the head of a body. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “leaders over the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1311EXO1825tb18figs-explicitאַנְשֵׁי־חַ֨יִל֙1capable men

If it would be helpful to your readers, 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]])

1312EXO1825iqn8translate-numbersשָׂרֵ֤י אֲלָפִים֙ שָׂרֵ֣י מֵא֔וֹת שָׂרֵ֥י חֲמִשִּׁ֖ים וְ⁠שָׂרֵ֥י עֲשָׂרֹֽת1leaders in charge of thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens

This could mean: (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]])

1313EXO1826abx4וְ⁠שָׁפְט֥וּ אֶת־הָ⁠עָ֖ם בְּ⁠כָל־עֵ֑ת1judged the people in normal circumstances

Alternate translation: “They judged the people most of the time” or “They judged the people in all regular circumstances”

1314EXO1826z7j4figs-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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. 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]])

1315EXO1826ve8hהַ⁠דָּבָ֥ר הַ⁠קָּטֹ֖ן1the small cases

Alternate translation: “easy case”

1316EXO19introck7e0

Exodus 19 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

This chapter consist of a series of Moses going up Mount Sinai, talking to Yahweh, coming down, and talking to the people. He is being the intermediary, carrying messages between Yahweh and the people.

  • v. 1-2: Arrival at Sinai
  • v. 3-8: First cycle of Moses going up and down for instruction and response
  • v. 9-15: Second cycle, people get ready to hear God
  • v. 16-19: God speaks to the people from the mountain
  • v. 20-25: Third cycle

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 shows the great importance of this event for Israel. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])

Boundaries between Yahweh and the people

Moses is told to make the people holy in preparation for meeting Yahweh, then boundaries are set up to keep the people separate from Yahweh, and then the priests are told to make themselves holy. The theme of a holy separation is beginning to be developed that will become much of the law code.

1317EXO191r5tjtranslate-ordinalבַּ⁠חֹ֨דֶשׁ֙ הַ⁠שְּׁלִישִׁ֔י…בַּ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠זֶּ֔ה1In 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. If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “In the month 3 … on the day 1 of the month” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1318EXO192nk51translate-namesמֵ⁠רְפִידִ֗ים1Rephidim

Rephidim 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]])

1319EXO193kgevfigs-parallelismתֹאמַר֙ לְ⁠בֵ֣ית יַעֲקֹ֔ב וְ⁠תַגֵּ֖יד לִ⁠בְנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל1the house of Jacob, the people of Israel

These two phrases have exactly the same meaning. This may be for poetic effect, as Yahwehs statement here through verse 6 is somewhat artfully crafted. You may need to use a strategy other than parallelism to achieve a similar poetic effect in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

1320EXO194z9i6figs-youdualאַתֶּ֣ם רְאִיתֶ֔ם1You have seen

The word you here refers to the Israelites. Yahweh is telling Moses what to tell the Israelites. If your language has a plural form of you, you would need it here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

1321EXO194b7phfigs-metaphorוָ⁠אֶשָּׂ֤א אֶתְ⁠כֶם֙ עַל־כַּנְפֵ֣י נְשָׁרִ֔ים1I 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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “ how I helped you travel like an eagle that carries her babies on her wings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1322EXO195c767figs-metonymyבְּ⁠קֹלִ֔⁠י1my voice

Gods voice represents what he says. Alternate translation: “to what I say” or “to my words” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1323EXO195fh8eוּ⁠שְׁמַרְתֶּ֖ם אֶת־בְּרִיתִ֑⁠י1keep my covenant

Alternate translation: “and do what my covenant requires you to do”

1324EXO195ifv6סְגֻלָּה֙1special possession

Alternate translation: “treasure”

1325EXO196gm9sfigs-metaphorלִ֛⁠י מַמְלֶ֥כֶת כֹּהֲנִ֖ים1a kingdom of priests

God speaks of his people as if they were priests. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “my kingdom of people who are like priests” or “my kingdom of people who do what priests do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1326EXO197c5tqfigs-metaphorוַ⁠יָּ֣שֶׂם לִ⁠פְנֵי⁠הֶ֗ם אֵ֚ת כָּל־הַ⁠דְּבָרִ֣ים הָ⁠אֵ֔לֶּה1set before them all these words

Moses setting the words before them means that he was telling people things. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “And he told them all these words” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1327EXO197xjbbfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵי⁠הֶ֗ם1set before them all these words

Here, face means the person. Alternate translation: “before them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1328EXO197zqk1כָּל־הַ⁠דְּבָרִ֣ים הָ⁠אֵ֔לֶּה אֲשֶׁ֥ר צִוָּ֖⁠הוּ יְהוָֽה1all these words that Yahweh had commanded him

Alternate translation: “all that Yahweh had commanded him”

1329EXO198ljf5figs-explicitוַ⁠יָּ֧שֶׁב מֹשֶׁ֛ה אֶת־דִּבְרֵ֥י הָ⁠עָ֖ם1Moses came to report

If it would be helpful to your readers, where Moses went can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “Moses went back up the mountain to report the words of the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1330EXO198rwx6figs-metonymyאֶת־דִּבְרֵ֥י הָ⁠עָ֖ם1the peoples words

Here, words refers to what the people said. Alternate translation: “what the people said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1331EXO199ih2hfigs-metonymyאֶת־דִּבְרֵ֥י הָ⁠עָ֖ם1the peoples words

Here, words refers to what the people said. Alternate translation: “what the people said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1332EXO1910ie7yוְ⁠קִדַּשְׁתָּ֥⁠ם1you must set them apart to me

This may mean instruct the people, or it may mean Moses will have a role as well. Alternate translation: “and tell them to dedicate themselves to me” or “and help them to purify themselves for me”

1333EXO1911tdg9figs-metonymyלְ⁠עֵינֵ֥י1Be ready

Here, before the eyes means “so they can see.” If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1334EXO1912d48pוְ⁠הִגְבַּלְתָּ֤1set boundaries

The boundary was either a mark or some kind of barrier.

1335EXO1912hhv5figs-quotesinquotesלֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר הִשָּׁמְר֥וּ לָ⁠כֶ֛ם1set boundaries

A second-level direct quotation begins with watch. It is not clear where this command that Moses is to give the Israelites ends. Most English translations end it in verse 13 before the last sentence. For that reason, it may be most helpful to translate the instruction as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “telling them to watch themselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

1336EXO1912xct0הִשָּׁמְר֥וּ לָ⁠כֶ֛ם עֲל֥וֹת בָּ⁠הָ֖ר וּ⁠נְגֹ֣עַ בְּ⁠קָצֵ֑⁠הוּ1set boundaries

Here, the negative command is implied from the watch yourselves command. Alternate translation: “Watch yourselves against climbing on the mountain or touching on its edge”

1337EXO1912kis1figs-activepassiveכָּל־הַ⁠נֹּגֵ֥עַ בָּ⁠הָ֖ר מ֥וֹת1Whoever touches the mountain will surely be put to death

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. 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]])

1338EXO1913l9akfigs-metonymyלֹא־תִגַּ֨ע בּ֜⁠וֹ יָ֗ד1such a person

Here, hand is a metonym for any part of a person. Alternate translation: “No person shall touch that one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1339EXO1913k35kfigs-activepassiveסָק֤וֹל יִסָּקֵל֙ אוֹ־יָרֹ֣ה יִיָּרֶ֔ה1he must certainly be stoned or shot

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you must certainly stone or shoot him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1340EXO1913vw19יָרֹ֣ה יִיָּרֶ֔ה1shot

This refers to being killed by someone who shoots arrows from a bow.

1341EXO1913ezpmfigs-goיַעֲל֥וּ1shot

If you translate this with come or go, consider which would be the correct perspective for your language and the text context. Yahweh is speaking, so “come up” is valid; however, the people will be the ones moving, so “go up” is valid as well. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

1342EXO1915bw2pfigs-euphemismאַֽל־תִּגְּשׁ֖וּ אֶל־אִשָּֽׁה1do not go near your wives

This is a polite way of talking about sexual relations. If this would be misunderstood in your language, use a different polite way of referring to this or you could state this plainly. Alternate translation: “do not sleep with your wives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

1343EXO1915z0aqאִשָּֽׁה1do not go near your wives

This word means both “woman” and “wife.” Context dictates the correct translation. Since wife would make it a narrower command, woman was chosen here.

1344EXO1918m1b5יָרַ֥ד…יְהוָ֖ה1Yahweh descended

Alternate translation: “Yahweh came down”

1345EXO1918a8p7figs-simileכְּ⁠עֶ֣שֶׁן הַ⁠כִּבְשָׁ֔ן1like the smoke of a furnace

This shows that it was a very large amount of smoke. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent comparison or express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “like the smoke from a very large fire” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1346EXO1919m8aeהוֹלֵ֖ךְ וְ⁠חָזֵ֣ק מְאֹ֑ד1grew louder and louder

Alternate translation: “continued to become louder and louder”

1347EXO1919f5e6figs-metonymyבְ⁠קֽוֹל1in a voice

The word voice here refers to a sound that God made. This could mean: (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]])

1348EXO1920zx5pfigs-goוַ⁠יֵּ֧רֶד…וַ⁠יַּ֥עַל1in a voice

You may need to consider your languages rules for perspective regarding going or coming up or down in this verse. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

1349EXO1921d2qmfigs-metaphorפֶּן־יֶהֶרְס֤וּ1not 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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “not to go beyond the boundary” or “not to go through the barrier” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1350EXO1921oht2figs-euphemismוְ⁠נָפַ֥ל1not to break through

Here, fall refers to dying. This is a polite way of referring to something unpleasant. If this would be misunderstood in your language, use a different polite way of referring to this or you could state this plainly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

1351EXO1922pq8jfigs-metaphorיִפְרֹ֥ץ בָּ⁠הֶ֖ם יְהוָֽה1not to break through

Yahwehs anger and judgment are pictured as something that will burst through a boundary. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “Yahweh kills them in anger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1352EXO1923gagpfigs-quotesinquotesבָּ֨⁠נוּ֙ לֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר הַגְבֵּ֥ל אֶת־הָ⁠הָ֖ר וְ⁠קִדַּשְׁתּֽ⁠וֹ1not to break through

This quoted command could be translated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “us to set boundaries on the mountain to keep it separate” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

1353EXO1924w8lxלֶךְ־רֵ֔ד1get down

Alternate translation: “Go down”

1354EXO1924bk6pfigs-metaphorאַל־יֶֽהֶרְס֛וּ1break 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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “must not go beyond the boundary” or “must not go through the barrier” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1355EXO1924p1yqfigs-metaphorיִפְרָץ־בָּֽ⁠ם1break through the barrier

Yahwehs anger and judgment are pictured as something that will burst forth from him. See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 19:22. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “he kill them in anger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1356EXO20introx7vt0

Exodus 20 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

  • v. 1-17: Yahweh gives the Ten Commandments
  • v. 18-21: the people react
  • v. 22-26: Yahweh gives a little more explanation about idols and altars

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]])

Form of you

The singular form of you is used in the commandments; however, the commandments applied to the whole Israelite community. There is both a singular and a corporate aspect to them. You may need to choose between singular and plural if your language makes that distinction. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd]])

1357EXO202qg71figs-metaphorמִ⁠בֵּ֥ית עֲבָדִֽים1house of slavery

Yahweh speaks of Egypt as if it were a house where people keep slaves. See how you translated this in Exodus 13:3. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “from the place where you were slaves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1358EXO203r9h3לֹֽ֣א יִהְיֶֽה־לְ⁠ךָ֛ אֱלֹהִ֥ים אֲחֵרִ֖ים עַל־פָּנָֽ⁠יַ1You must have no other gods before me

Alternate translation: “You must not worship any other gods besides me”

1359EXO204s7n3figs-merismוְ⁠כָל־תְּמוּנָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֤ר בַּ⁠שָּׁמַ֨יִם֙ מִ⁠מַּ֔עַל וַ⁠אֲשֶׁ֥ר בָּ⁠אָ֖רֶץ מִ⁠תָּ֑חַת וַ⁠אֲשֶׁ֥ר בַּ⁠מַּ֖יִם מִ⁠תַּ֥חַת לָ⁠אָֽרֶץ1nor the likeness

This list means all created things wherever they are. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “nor anything that looks like anything created, whether that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

1360EXO204rkn1figs-abstractnounsוְ⁠כָל־תְּמוּנָ֔ה1nor the likeness

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of likeness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “nor anything looking like something” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1361EXO205ka3iwriting-pronounsלָ⁠הֶ֖ם1You must not bow down to them or worship them

Here, them refers to carved figures or idols. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

1362EXO205hx93figs-ellipsisבָּנִ֛ים עַל־שִׁלֵּשִׁ֥ים וְ⁠עַל־רִבֵּעִ֖ים1to the third and the fourth generation

Alternate translation: “Generation” is implied by sons, therefore third and fourth refers to the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “the sons down to the third and fourth generations” or “and even on the grandchildren and great-grandchildren” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1363EXO205s2iatranslate-ordinalעַל־שִׁלֵּשִׁ֥ים וְ⁠עַל־רִבֵּעִ֖ים1to the third and the fourth generation

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “to generations 3 and 4”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1364EXO206u9ncfigs-abstractnounsוְ⁠עֹ֥שֶׂה חֶ֖סֶד לַ⁠אֲלָפִ֑ים לְ⁠אֹהֲבַ֖⁠י1I show covenant faithfulness to thousands of those who love me

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of faithfulness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “I am faithful to the covenant with thousands of those who love me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1365EXO206oyh7figs-ellipsisלַ⁠אֲלָפִ֑ים1to the third and the fourth generation

Alternate translation: “Generation” is implied by the previous verse. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply necessary words from the context. Alternate translation: “to the thousandth generation” or “for a thousand generations” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1366EXO206yw38figs-metonymyלַ⁠אֲלָפִ֑ים לְ⁠אֹהֲבַ֖⁠י1to thousands of those who love me

Here, thousands may mean: (1) “forever,” that is, “to all descendants forever” (2) a number too many to count. Alternate translation: “for every generation” or “forever to innumerable people who love me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1367EXO207o96bתִשָּׂ֛א…יִשָּׂ֥א1take the name of Yahweh your God

To lift up, take, or use the name of Yahweh (with emptiness, i.e. improperly) covers many sorts of speaking or invoking his name or making a claim to him or attempting to manipulate him or misrepresenting him. A broad word should be used in translation of this term.

1368EXO207t3k2לֹ֥א תִשָּׂ֛א אֶת־שֵֽׁם־יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֶ֖י⁠ךָ1take the name of Yahweh your God

Alternate translation: “You must not use the name of Yahweh your God”

1369EXO207gcz2לַ⁠שָּׁ֑וְא…לַ⁠שָּֽׁוְא1in vain

Alternate translation: “carelessly” or “without proper respect”

1370EXO207sl6gfigs-doublenegativesלֹ֤א יְנַקֶּה֙1I will not hold guiltless

If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. . Alternate translation: “I will certainly consider guilty” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1371EXO208kwn7לְ⁠קַדְּשֽׁ⁠וֹ1set it apart

Alternate translation: “to make it holy to me” or “to consecrate it to me”

1372EXO209sad1מְלַאכְתֶּֽ⁠ךָ1do all your work

Alternate translation: “your occupation” or “your livelihood”

1373EXO2010t1kyfigs-metonymyבִּ⁠שְׁעָרֶֽי⁠ךָ1within your gates

Cities often had walls around them to keep out enemies, and gates for people to go in and out. Anyone who was inside the gates was part of the community. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “within your community” or “inside your city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1374EXO2011vw1ftranslate-ordinalבַּ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠שְּׁבִיעִ֑י1on the seventh day

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “on day seven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1375EXO2014wyv9לֹ֖א תִּנְאָֽף1You must not commit adultery

Alternate translation: “You must not have sex with anyone other than your spouse”

1376EXO2016zix8לֹֽא־תַעֲנֶ֥ה בְ⁠רֵעֲ⁠ךָ֖ עֵ֥ד שָֽׁקֶר1must not give false testimony

Alternate translation: “You must not speak a false report against your neighbor”

1377EXO2017vt9tלֹ֥א תַחְמֹ֖ד1must not covet

Alternate translation: “You must not strongly want to have” or “You must not want to take”

1378EXO2018nm52הָ⁠הָ֖ר עָשֵׁ֑ן1the mountain smoking

Alternate translation: “the smoky mountain”

1379EXO2018lmt5וַ⁠יָּנֻ֔עוּ1they trembled

Alternate translation: “and they shook with fear”

1380EXO2018h53mוַ⁠יַּֽעַמְד֖וּ מֵֽ⁠רָחֹֽק1stood far off

Alternate translation: “and stood far away”

1381EXO2020slb8וּ⁠בַ⁠עֲב֗וּר תִּהְיֶ֧ה יִרְאָת֛⁠וֹ עַל־פְּנֵי⁠כֶ֖ם לְ⁠בִלְתִּ֥י תֶחֱטָֽאוּ1so that the honor of him may be in you, and so that you do not sin

Alternate translation: “so that you will honor him and not sin”

1382EXO2020hocwfigs-metaphorתִּהְיֶ֧ה יִרְאָת֛⁠וֹ עַל־פְּנֵי⁠כֶ֖ם1so that the honor of him may be in you, and so that you do not sin

Here, fear is spoken of as something that could be above their faces. This means that they would be continually thinking about honoring God. It is similar to the image in Exodus 13:16. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “you will live always reverencing him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1383EXO2021lts1וּ⁠מֹשֶׁה֙ נִגַּ֣שׁ1Moses approached

Alternate translation: “and Moses moved closer,”

1384EXO2023qm44אֱלֹ֤הֵי כֶ֨סֶף֙ וֵ⁠אלֹהֵ֣י זָהָ֔ב1gods of silver or gods of gold

Alternate translation: “gods made out of silver or gold” or “idols made out of silver or gold”

1385EXO2024pf1iמִזְבַּ֣ח אֲדָמָה֮1earthen altar

The phrase an altar of earth means an altar made of materials from the ground, such as stone, soil, or clay.

1386EXO2024ge89figs-metonymyאַזְכִּ֣יר אֶת־שְׁמִ֔⁠י1cause my name to be honored

Here, name is a metonym for Gods being. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “I cause myself to be remembered” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1387EXO2024zmc4figs-activepassiveאַזְכִּ֣יר אֶת־שְׁמִ֔⁠י1cause my name to be honored

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I choose for you to remember me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1388EXO2026qm1bfigs-explicitוְ⁠לֹֽא־תַעֲלֶ֥ה בְ⁠מַעֲלֹ֖ת עַֽל־מִזְבְּחִ֑⁠י1You must not go up to my altar on steps

If you need to connect this statement more explicitly to the previous statements regarding building the alter, you could add a phrase about building steps. Alternate translation: “Do not build steps up to the altar and go up to it on those steps” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1389EXO2026e28yfigs-activepassiveאֲשֶׁ֛ר לֹֽא־תִגָּלֶ֥ה עֶרְוָתְ⁠ךָ֖ עָלָֽי⁠ו1You must not go up to my altar on steps

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that you do not expose your nakedness over it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1390EXO2026h2qdעֶרְוָתְ⁠ךָ֖1your nakedness

Alternate translation: “your private parts”

1391EXO21introdnd30

Exodus 21 General Notes

This chapter begins to give the Israelite civil case law, that is, the explanation of how to apply the principles condensed in the ten commandments.

Structure:

  • 1: Introduction
  • 2-6: Laws regarding male slaves
  • 7-11: Laws regarding female slaves
  • 12-17: Capital crimes
  • 18-36: Liability laws
    • 18-27: Regarding human violence
    • 28-36: Regarding damage done by or to animals

Translation Issues in this Chapter

Hypothetical situations

Throughout the case law, a hypothetical situation is introduced with “when” or “if.” It is followed by a description of the situation; then there is the penalty or action to be taken in those situations. A hypothetical person may be introduced with “anyone” or “whoever.” Most verses for the next several chapters will have these hypothetical situations. See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]] Translators familiar with Hebrew may want to notice that, generally, major divisions are introduced by כִּי (ki) and minor divisions within a topic are introduced by אִם (im).

Passive construction

Many portions of these situations are written in the passive voice. Some languages may have to change all or some of these to active voice. See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]].

Daughters sold as servants

The section from verses 7-11 may be somewhat confusing because a daughter that is sold as a servant is seamlessly connected to her becoming someones wife. It seems the two things could be closely related.

Ransom payment

In verse 30 a man whose bull killed someone may evade the death penalty by paying a ransom price, but the conditions for that happening are not clear.

1392EXO211xxf40you must set before them

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses. There is no quote break between chapters.

1393EXO211hhf7תָּשִׂ֖ים1you must set before them

Alternate translation: “you must give” or “you must tell”

1394EXO211ddqlfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵי⁠הֶֽם1you must set before them

Here, faces figuratively represents the presence of the nation. Alternate translation: “before them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1395EXO212di5z0General Information:

Here Yahweh begins telling Moses his laws for the people of Israel.

1396EXO212wj0egrammar-connect-condition-hypotheticalכִּ֤י תִקְנֶה֙ עֶ֣בֶד עִבְרִ֔י1General Information:

This is the first of many hypothetical situations, introduced by “when” or if, which you will encounter over the next several chapters. See the introduction to chapter 21. You will need to translate these consistently in a manner that expresses that these situations have not happened. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]])

1397EXO213ln3rfigs-explicitאִם־בְּ⁠גַפּ֥⁠וֹ יָבֹ֖א בְּ⁠גַפּ֣⁠וֹ יֵצֵ֑א1If 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]])

1398EXO213pfn3בְּ⁠גַפּ֥⁠וֹ…בְּ⁠גַפּ֣⁠וֹ1by himself

Alternate translation: “alone” or “without a wife”

1399EXO213e467אִם־בַּ֤עַל אִשָּׁה֙ ה֔וּא1if he is married

Alternate translation: “if he was married when he became a slave” or “if he came as a married man”

1400EXO215yj8xאָמֹ֤ר יֹאמַר֙1plainly says

Alternate translation: “makes a statement, saying”

1401EXO215jqh4לֹ֥א אֵצֵ֖א חָפְשִֽׁי1I will not go out free

Alternate translation: “I do not want my master to set me free”

1402EXO216vnjkfigs-metonymyהָ֣⁠אֱלֹהִ֔ים1bore his ear through

The word for God at its most literal means “great ones.” Here it may have this basic meaning and refer to human judges or other leaders in Israel. It may also be a metonym and refer to the judges because they represent God to the people and have his authority. Texts other than the standard Hebrew text support this reading. See Exodus 22:8-9 for another example of this. Alternate translation: “the judges” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1403EXO216z8x1וְ⁠רָצַ֨ע…אֶת־אָזְנ⁠וֹ֙1bore his ear through

Alternate translation: “and … will put a hole in his ear”

1404EXO216xpd3בַּ⁠מַּרְצֵ֔עַ1awl

An awl is a pointed tool used to make a hole

1405EXO216k6evלְ⁠עֹלָֽם1for life

Alternate translation: “until the end of his life” or “until he dies”

1406EXO218lpqh0has designated

This verse is the first of three possible situations between a master and his female slave.

1407EXO218p8seיְעָדָ֖⁠הּ1has designated

Alternate translation: “has chosen her”

1408EXO218t2zffigs-activepassiveוְ⁠הֶפְדָּ֑⁠הּ1he must let her be bought back

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “then he must allow her father to buy her back” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1409EXO218h7f7בְּ⁠בִגְד⁠וֹ־בָֽ⁠הּ1he has treated her deceitfully

Alternate translation: “since he has deceived her”

1410EXO219h9ni0he has treated her deceitfully

This verse is the second of three possible situations between a master and his female slave.

1411EXO219w99zלִ⁠בְנ֖⁠וֹ יִֽיעָדֶ֑⁠נָּה1designates her as a wife for his son

Alternate translation: “he decides that she is the one who will be his sons wife”

1412EXO219suz0כְּ⁠מִשְׁפַּ֥ט הַ⁠בָּנ֖וֹת יַעֲשֶׂה־לָּֽ⁠הּ1designates her as a wife for his son

Alternate translation: “he must do to her according to the manner in which daughters are customarily treated”

1413EXO2110i0xh0designates her as a wife for his son

This verse and the next are the third of three possible situations between a master and his female slave.

1414EXO2110rxk4figs-doublenegativesשְׁאֵרָ֛⁠הּ כְּסוּתָ֥⁠הּ וְ⁠עֹנָתָ֖⁠הּ לֹ֥א יִגְרָֽע1he must not diminish her food, clothing, or her marital rights

If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. 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]])

1415EXO2110np9bfigs-euphemismוְ⁠עֹנָתָ֖⁠הּ1or her marital rights

This term only occurs here in the Bible. It probably means things that a husband must do for his wife. Most commentators believe it specifically means having sexual relations with her, possibly so that she can bear children. Alternate translation: “or her right to intimacy” or “or her childbearing rights” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

1416EXO2112gks4מַכֵּ֥ה אִ֛ישׁ1strikes a man

Alternate translation: “Whoever attacks a man”

1417EXO2112su6bfigs-activepassiveמ֥וֹת יוּמָֽת1that person must surely be put to death

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you must certainly execute that person” or “you must certainly kill that person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1418EXO2113h4kaוַ⁠אֲשֶׁר֙ לֹ֣א צָדָ֔ה1did not do it with premeditation

Alternate translation: “But if he did not plan to do it” or “But if he did not do it on purpose”

1419EXO2113gme9figs-explicitוְ⁠שַׂמְתִּ֤י לְ⁠ךָ֙ מָק֔וֹם אֲשֶׁ֥ר יָנ֖וּס שָֽׁמָּ⁠ה1I will fix a place to where he can flee

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express the purpose for choosing a place explicitly. Alternate translation: “I will choose a place to which he can run away to be safe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1420EXO2114st5hבְ⁠עָרְמָ֑ה1according to a cunning plan

Alternate translation: “after thinking carefully about it”

1421EXO2114abx6תִּקָּחֶ֖⁠נּוּ1must take him

The word “him” refers to the one who killed his neighbor.

1422EXO2114mvpxלָ⁠מֽוּת1must take him

Alternate translation: “to execute him”

1423EXO2115y3hdfigs-activepassiveוּ⁠מַכֵּ֥ה אָבִ֛י⁠ו וְ⁠אִמּ֖⁠וֹ מ֥וֹת יוּמָֽת1Whoever hits his father or mother must surely be put to death

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. 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]])

1424EXO2115qh2jמ֥וֹת1must surely

Alternate translation: “certainly”

1425EXO2116iu81figs-activepassiveמ֥וֹת יוּמָֽת1that kidnapper must be put to death

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you must kill that kidnapper” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1426EXO2117h8qffigs-activepassiveוּ⁠מְקַלֵּ֥ל אָבִ֛י⁠ו וְ⁠אִמּ֖⁠וֹ מ֥וֹת יוּמָֽת1Whoever curses his father or his mother must surely be put to death

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “You must surely kill anyone who curses his father or his mother” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1427EXO2117kvbcוּ⁠מְקַלֵּ֥ל1Whoever curses his father or his mother must surely be put to death

The word translated acts contemptuously means the opposite of “honor” (as in the commandment to honor ones parents). Alternate translation: “Whoever acts dishonorably toward”

1428EXO2119c7rvיָק֞וּם1he recovers

Alternate translation: “he gets better”

1429EXO2119tv0zוְ⁠נִקָּ֣ה1he recovers

Alternate translation: “then … is innocent”

1430EXO2119xg6cfigs-explicitשִׁבְתּ֛⁠וֹ1the loss of his time

This refers to a situation when someone cannot work to earn money. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “for the time he could not work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1431EXO2119ws14וְ⁠רַפֹּ֥א יְרַפֵּֽא1pay for his complete recovery

Alternate translation: “and for his medical costs” or “and for his costs for healing”

1432EXO2120te41תַּ֣חַת יָד֑⁠וֹ1as a result of the blow

Alternate translation: “because of the injury” or “because the master hit him”

1433EXO2120h4egfigs-activepassiveנָקֹ֖ם יִנָּקֵֽם1that man must surely be punished

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you must certainly punish that man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1434EXO2121r65ufigs-explicitכִּ֥י כַסְפּ֖⁠וֹ הֽוּא1for he will have suffered the loss of the servant

A common view is that the loss of the valuable property, the slave, is itself a punishment. It may be that the master loses the slave for a time and also has to pay for his healing, or it may be that the slave dies after a few days. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that the servant was valuable to his master explicitly. Alternate translation: “because he has already lost his servant who was valuable to him” or “because he has already lost his servants work for a time and had to pay for his healing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1435EXO2122a6avוְ⁠יָצְא֣וּ יְלָדֶ֔י⁠הָ וְ⁠לֹ֥א יִהְיֶ֖ה אָס֑וֹן1she miscarries

It is not clear in the passage what happens to the child. The text is simply as in the ULT. Some have taken it to mean that the child dies because of premature birth, and the serious injury only relates to the woman. In this case, a fine is imposed for the loss of the child. However, the text could also mean that the child is born safely. A fine is still imposed because of the great danger to the two lives. Then the next few verses give consequences for any injury either to mother or child.

1436EXO2122w4p3אָס֑וֹן1she miscarries

Alternate translation: “hurt”

1437EXO2122cn4hfigs-activepassiveעָנ֣וֹשׁ יֵעָנֵ֗שׁ1the guilty man must surely be fined

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. 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]])

1438EXO2122v5yeבִּ⁠פְלִלִֽים1as the judges determine

Alternate translation: “what the judges decide”

1439EXO2123ya82figs-explicitוְ⁠נָתַתָּ֥ה נֶ֖פֶשׁ תַּ֥חַת נָֽפֶשׁ1as the judges determine

This means that if someone is hurt, the person who caused the hurt must be hurt in the same way. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “you must take the killers life for the murdered persons life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1440EXO2124c5bqfigs-explicitעַ֚יִן תַּ֣חַת עַ֔יִן1an eye for an eye

This means that if someone is hurt, the person who caused the hurt must be hurt in the same way. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “the strikers eye for the injured persons eye” (and repeated in like manner for each example throughout this and the next verse) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1441EXO2126i8cgאִ֜ישׁ1If a man

Here, man refers to the owner of a slave.

1442EXO2126bmc1תַּ֥חַת1in compensation

Alternate translation: “as payment for”

1443EXO2128sp6wיִגַּ֨ח שׁ֥וֹר1an ox gores

Alternate translation: “an ox injures with its horns”

1444EXO2128qk3ufigs-activepassiveסָק֨וֹל יִסָּקֵ֜ל הַ⁠שּׁ֗וֹר1the ox must surely be stoned

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you must surely stone the ox to death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1445EXO2128q2gvfigs-activepassiveוְ⁠לֹ֤א יֵאָכֵל֙ אֶת־בְּשָׂר֔⁠וֹ1its flesh must not be eaten

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and you must not eat its flesh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1446EXO2129zgllfigs-activepassiveוְ⁠הוּעַ֤ד בִּ⁠בְעָלָי⁠ו֙ וְ⁠לֹ֣א יִשְׁמְרֶ֔⁠נּוּ1its owner also must be put to death

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state its owner was warned in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and someone warned its owner but he did not keep it in” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1447EXO2129x2y0figs-explicitוְ⁠הוּעַ֤ד בִּ⁠בְעָלָי⁠ו֙ וְ⁠לֹ֣א יִשְׁמְרֶ֔⁠נּוּ1its owner also must be put to death

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express the content of the warning explicitly. Alternate translation: “and its owner was warned that it gores but he did not keep it in” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1448EXO2129nzn1figs-activepassiveוְ⁠גַם־בְּעָלָ֖י⁠ו יוּמָֽת1its owner also must be put to death

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and you must also kill its owner” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1449EXO2130t5rsfigs-explicitאִם־כֹּ֖פֶר יוּשַׁ֣ת עָלָ֑י⁠ו וְ⁠נָתַן֙ פִּדְיֹ֣ן נַפְשׁ֔⁠וֹ כְּ⁠כֹ֥ל אֲשֶׁר־יוּשַׁ֖ת עָלָֽי⁠ו1If a payment is required for his life

The text does not specify who will impose a ransom on the oxs owner. Since other texts indicate that justice is retributive and performed by the dead persons family, that is one option. Another option is that the judges will impose it. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express one of these explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1450EXO2130py37figs-activepassiveאִם־כֹּ֖פֶר יוּשַׁ֣ת עָלָ֑י⁠ו…יוּשַׁ֖ת עָלָֽי⁠ו1If a payment is required for his life

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. However, you must make a decision regarding who is imposing the ransom or use an unspecified pronoun, if that is possible in your language (this second option would not make sense in English). Alternate translation: “If the judges impose a ransom on him … they impose on him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1451EXO2131kg25יִגָּ֖ח…יִגָּ֑ח1has gored

Alternate translation: “it injures with its horns … it injures with its horns”

1452EXO2131to8kwriting-pronounsלּֽ⁠וֹ1has gored

Here, him probably refers to the oxs owner. Alternate translation: “to the owner” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

1453EXO2132qzv3translate-bmoneyכֶּ֣סֶף׀ שְׁלֹשִׁ֣ים שְׁקָלִ֗ים1thirty shekels of silver

In ancient times, a silver shekel weighed about 11 grams or about a third of an ounce. You could try to express the equivalent in terms of modern money values, but if you did, that could cause your Bible translation to become outdated and inaccurate, since those values can change over time. Instead, you could say something general like “30 silver coins” or give the equivalent weight or use the biblical term in the text and explain the weight in a footnote. Alternate translation: “330 grams of silver” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]])

1454EXO2132qy0gfigs-explicitאִם־עֶ֛בֶד יִגַּ֥ח הַ⁠שּׁ֖וֹר1thirty shekels of silver

Because they are to kill the ox, the slave must have died. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “If an ox kills a male servant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1455EXO2132wm9afigs-activepassiveוְ⁠הַ⁠שּׁ֖וֹר יִסָּקֵֽל1the ox must be stoned

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you must kill the ox by stoning it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1456EXO2133fd4pיִפְתַּ֨ח…בּ֗וֹר1opens a pit

Alternate translation: “uncovers a hole in the ground” or “takes a cover off a hole in the ground”

1457EXO2134b48afigs-explicitכֶּ֖סֶף יָשִׁ֣יב לִ⁠בְעָלָ֑י⁠ו1repay the loss

The owner must be paid for the loss of his animal. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “he must pay the owner for the dead animal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1458EXO2134ip1nיְשַׁלֵּ֔ם1repay the loss

Alternate translation: “must make restitution”

1459EXO2134j8qzfigs-explicitוְ⁠הַ⁠מֵּ֖ת יִֽהְיֶה־לּֽ⁠וֹ1will 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. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “and the dead animal will belong to the owner of the pit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1460EXO2135z9ugוְ⁠חָצ֣וּ אֶת־כַּסְפּ֔⁠וֹ1divide its price

Alternate translation: “and divide the money” or “and divide the money they receive”

1461EXO2136fkx2figs-activepassiveא֣וֹ נוֹדַ֗ע1if it was known

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1462EXO2136v64bנַגָּ֥ח הוּא֙ מִ⁠תְּמ֣וֹל שִׁלְשֹׁ֔ם1a habit of goring in time past

Alternate translation: “the ox had gored other animals before”

1463EXO2136ix8hfigs-explicitוְ⁠לֹ֥א יִשְׁמְרֶ֖⁠נּוּ בְּעָלָ֑י⁠ו1its owner has not kept it in

This means that the owner did not keep his ox safely where it could not wander to hurt other animals. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “and its owner did not keep it inside a fence” or “and its owner did not tie it securely” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1464EXO2136dcv2figs-explicitשַׁלֵּ֨ם יְשַׁלֵּ֥ם שׁוֹר֙ תַּ֣חַת הַ⁠שּׁ֔וֹר1he must surely pay ox for ox

The owner of the ox that killed must give an ox to the man who lost his ox. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. 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]])

1465EXO22introf9vb0

Exodus 22 General Notes

Structure

This chapter continues the list of case laws for Israel. We will not attempt to provide an outline since almost every verse is about a different case.

Translation Issues in this Chapter

Hypothetical situations

Throughout the case law a hypothetical situation is introduced with “when” or “if.” Then there is a description of the situation, and then there is the penalty or action to be taken in those situations. A hypothetical person may be introduced with “anyone” or “whoever.” Most verses for the next several chapters will contain these hypothetical situations. See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]] Translators familiar with Hebrew may want to notice that, generally, major divisions are introduced by כִּי (ki) and minor divisions within a topic are introduced by אִם (im).

Passive construction

Many portions of these situations are written in the passive voice. Some languages may have to change all or some of these to active voice. See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]].

1466EXO221syx50General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses his laws for the people of Israel.

1467EXO221onm0grammar-connect-condition-hypotheticalכִּ֤י יִגְנֹֽב־אִישׁ֙ שׁ֣וֹר אוֹ־שֶׂ֔ה וּ⁠טְבָח֖⁠וֹ א֣וֹ מְכָר֑⁠וֹ1General Information:

This is the first of many hypothetical situations in this chapter, introduced by “when” or if, which you will encounter over the next several chapters. See the introduction. You will need to translate these consistently in a manner that expresses that these situations have not actually happened. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]])

1468EXO221bc03translate-numbersחֲמִשָּׁ֣ה…וְ⁠אַרְבַּע1General Information:

Alternate translation: “5 … and 4” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1469EXO222mt43figs-activepassiveאִם־בַּ⁠מַּחְתֶּ֛רֶת יִמָּצֵ֥א הַ⁠גַּנָּ֖ב1If a thief is found

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “If anyone finds a thief while he is breaking in” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1470EXO222e98xבַּ⁠מַּחְתֶּ֛רֶת1breaking in

Alternate translation: “while using force to enter a house”

1471EXO222gt5ffigs-activepassiveוְ⁠הֻכָּ֣ה וָ⁠מֵ֑ת1if he is struck so that he dies

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “if anyone strikes the thief so that he dies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1472EXO222fq57אֵ֥ין ל֖⁠וֹ דָּמִֽים1no guilt for murder will attach to anyone on his account

Alternate translation: “no one will be guilty of murdering him”

1473EXO223vym5אִם־זָרְחָ֥ה הַ⁠שֶּׁ֛מֶשׁ עָלָ֖י⁠ו1if the sun has risen before he breaks in

Alternate translation: “But if it is light before he breaks in” or “But if he breaks in and it is after sunrise”

1474EXO223c5ylfigs-activepassiveוְ⁠נִמְכַּ֖ר בִּ⁠גְנֵבָתֽ⁠וֹ1he must be sold for his theft

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. 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]])

1475EXO224k926figs-activepassiveאִֽם־הִמָּצֵא֩ תִמָּצֵ֨א בְ⁠יָד֜⁠וֹ הַ⁠גְּנֵבָ֗ה…חַיִּ֑ים1If the stolen animal is found alive in his possession

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “If they find that he still has the live animal that he stole” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1476EXO224g5kgשְׁנַ֖יִם יְשַׁלֵּֽם1pay back double

The meaning of compensate double is not entirely clear. Most interpretations follow the UST, that is, two animals total must be given, the stolen one and one more. Some interpret double to mean the thief must pay two animals for every animal that he took, so three total. It would be best to leave double as ambiguous as possible. Alternate translation: “he must compensate twice what he stole”

1477EXO225j24tיַבְעֶר…וּ⁠בִעֵ֖ר1If a man grazes his livestock

Alternate translation: “causes to eat plants … and it eats plants”

1478EXO225nlxcgrammar-collectivenounsבְּעִיר֔וֹ1If a man grazes his livestock

Livestock is a collective singular noun that could refer to cows, goats, sheep, or basically any domesticated animals. In some languages you will need to translate it as a plural. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

1479EXO225jrb3יְשַׁלֵּֽם1he must make restitution

Alternate translation: “he must pay back the owner of that field”

1480EXO226x6ajfigs-activepassiveכִּֽי־תֵצֵ֨א אֵ֜שׁ וּ⁠מָצְאָ֤ה קֹצִים֙ וְ⁠נֶאֱכַ֣ל1If a fire breaks out and spreads in thorns

Here, breaks out and consumes can be stated in active form or in another way that is natural in your language if your language does not use the passive form in this way. Alternate translation: “If someone starts a fire, and it spreads in thorns, and it consumes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1481EXO226i4maוּ⁠מָצְאָ֤ה קֹצִים֙1spreads in thorns

Alternate translation: “and moves along the ground through dry plants”

1482EXO226u1patranslate-unknownגָּדִ֔ישׁ1stacked grain

This is grain that has been cut and tied in bundles. Alternate translation: “bundled grain” or “harvested grain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1483EXO226r2cftranslate-unknownהַ⁠קָּמָ֖ה1standing grain

This is grain that has not been cut, but it is ready to be harvested. Alternate translation: “the grain still growing in the field” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1484EXO227jw3vלִ⁠שְׁמֹ֔ר1for safe keeping

Alternate translation: “to watch over it” or “to keep it safe”

1485EXO227na9hfigs-activepassiveוְ⁠גֻנַּ֖ב1if it is stolen

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “if someone steals it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1486EXO227x2shfigs-activepassiveאִם־יִמָּצֵ֥א הַ⁠גַּנָּ֖ב1if the thief is found

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “if you find the thief” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1487EXO228lwg5figs-activepassiveאִם־לֹ֤א יִמָּצֵא֙ הַ⁠גַּנָּ֔ב וְ⁠נִקְרַ֥ב בַּֽעַל־הַ⁠בַּ֖יִת אֶל־הָֽ⁠אֱלֹהִ֑ים1come before the judges to see whether

You may need to translate these in an active voice if your language does not use passive in this way. Alternate translation: “If no one finds the thief, bring the owner of the house to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1488EXO228c812figs-metonymyהָֽ⁠אֱלֹהִ֑ים1come before the judges to see whether

The word for God at its most literal means “great ones.” Here and in the next verse it may have this basic meaning and refer to human judges or other leaders in Israel. It may also be a metonym and refer to the judges because they represent God to the people and have his authority. See Exodus 21:6 for another example of this. Alternate translation: “the judges” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1489EXO228f774figs-idiomשָׁלַ֛ח יָד֖⁠וֹ בִּ⁠מְלֶ֥אכֶת רֵעֵֽ⁠הוּ1has put his own hand on his neighbors property

This is an idiom for stealing. If you have a way of saying this in your language, you can use it here. Alternate translation: “he has stolen his neighbors property” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1490EXO229p7abדְּבַר…דְּבַר1

Alternate translation: “dispute of … the dispute of”

1491EXO229fgz1כִּי־ה֣וּא זֶ֔ה1the claim of both parties must come before the judges

Alternate translation: “This is mine” or “This is my missing property”

1492EXO229m31kfigs-metonymyהָֽ⁠אֱלֹהִ֔ים…אֱלֹהִ֔ים1the claim of both parties must come before the judges

The word used here for God, at its most literal, means “great ones.” Here and in the previous verse it may have this basic meaning and refer to human judges or other leaders in Israel. It may also be a metonym and refer to the judges because they represent God to the people and have his authority. See Exodus 21:6 for another example of this. Alternate translation: “the judges” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1493EXO2210h7msfigs-activepassiveנִשְׁבַּ֥ר אוֹ־נִשְׁבָּ֖ה1the claim of both parties must come before the judges

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language, as modeled in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1494EXO2210hzowנִשְׁבָּ֖ה1the claim of both parties must come before the judges

Here, carried away means that it is not a thief but a wild animal that takes the ox or sheep away (to eat it). See verse 12 for cases where the animal is stolen while in anothers care.

1495EXO2211gl7tfigs-activepassiveשְׁבֻעַ֣ת יְהוָ֗ה תִּהְיֶה֙ בֵּ֣ין שְׁנֵי⁠הֶ֔ם…וְ⁠לָקַ֥ח בְּעָלָ֖י⁠ו1an 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. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. 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]])

1496EXO2212yw3wfigs-activepassiveוְ⁠אִם־גָּנֹ֥ב יִגָּנֵ֖ב מֵ⁠עִמּ֑⁠וֹ1But if it was stolen from him

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “But if someone stole the animal from him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1497EXO2213b313figs-activepassiveאִם־טָרֹ֥ף יִטָּרֵ֖ף1If an animal was torn in pieces

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “But if a wild beast tore the animal in pieces” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1498EXO2214h8ywשַׁלֵּ֥ם יְשַׁלֵּֽם1must surely make restitution

Alternate translation: “must certainly repay with another animal” or “must certainly pay the owner for the animal”

1499EXO2214wu3ufigs-activepassiveוְ⁠נִשְׁבַּ֣ר אוֹ־מֵ֑ת1must surely make restitution

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language, as modeled in the UST.(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1500EXO2215g3zwfigs-activepassiveאִם־שָׂכִ֣יר1if the animal was hired

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “if someone rented the animal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1501EXO2215r792figs-explicitבָּ֖א בִּ⁠שְׂכָרֽ⁠וֹ1it 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. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. 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]])

1502EXO2215f9w9בִּ⁠שְׂכָרֽ⁠וֹ1hiring fee

Alternate translation: “for its rental fee” or “for the money paid to rent the animal”

1503EXO2216a8s8וְ⁠כִֽי־יְפַתֶּ֣ה אִ֗ישׁ בְּתוּלָ֛ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר לֹא־אֹרָ֖שָׂה1a man seduces a virgin who is not engaged

Alternate translation: “If a man persuades a virgin who is not engaged that she wants to lie with him”

1504EXO2216th2mלֹא־אֹרָ֖שָׂה1not engaged

Alternate translation: “not promised to be married”

1505EXO2216g24hfigs-euphemismוְ⁠שָׁכַ֣ב1if he lies with her

Lying with someone refers to having sex. This is a polite way of referring to something unpleasant. If this would be misunderstood in your language, use a different polite way of referring to this or you could state this plainly. Alternate translation: “if he has sex with her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

1506EXO2216x33yמָהֹ֛ר יִמְהָרֶ֥⁠נָּה1bride wealth

The bride price was money paid to the family to compensate for the loss of their daughter.

1507EXO2217y2xzwriting-pronounsל֑⁠וֹ…יִשְׁקֹ֔ל1him, he

Here, him and he refer back to the man who seduced the virgin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

1508EXO2219y3qyfigs-euphemismכָּל־שֹׁכֵ֥ב עִם־בְּהֵמָ֖ה1Whoever lies with an animal

This refers to sexual relations. This is a polite way of referring to something unpleasant. If this would be misunderstood in your language, use a different polite way of referring to this or you could state this plainly. Alternate translation: “Whoever has sexual relations with an animal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

1509EXO2219b807figs-activepassiveכָּל־שֹׁכֵ֥ב עִם־בְּהֵמָ֖ה מ֥וֹת יוּמָֽת1Whoever lies with an animal

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state be put to death in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “You must surely execute whoever lies with an animal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1510EXO2220n4nhfigs-activepassiveיָֽחֳרָ֑ם1Yahweh must be completely destroyed

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation (placed at the beginning of the sentence): “You must completely destroy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1511EXO2221kr35לֹא־תוֹנֶ֖ה1wrong a foreigner

Alternate translation: “You must not mistreat” or “You must not cheat”

1512EXO2221eoa5figs-explicitכִּֽי־גֵרִ֥ים הֱיִיתֶ֖ם בְּ⁠אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם1wrong a foreigner

The Israelites are called to remember their previous condition, that they lived as foreign guests in Egypt. They came first to avoid the famine in Jacob and Josephs time and were dependent on Egyptian hospitality. Later they were wronged and oppressed, and they are not to do that to those who sojourn with them. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “for you were wronged and oppressed as sojourners in the land of Egypt” or “for you also depended on hospitality while you lived as sojourners in Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1513EXO2222djh3figs-doublenegativesכָּל־אַלְמָנָ֥ה וְ⁠יָת֖וֹם לֹ֥א תְעַנּֽוּ⁠ן׃1You must not mistreat any widow or fatherless child

If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “You must treat all widows and fatherless children fairly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1514EXO2222v3i8אַלְמָנָ֥ה1widow

Alternate translation: “woman whose husband has died”

1515EXO2222l2ihוְ⁠יָת֖וֹם1fatherless child

Alternate translation: “or child with no parents”

1516EXO2224zszzfigs-idiomוְ⁠חָרָ֣ה אַפִּ֔⁠י1fatherless child

This is an idiom meaning that Yahweh will be angry. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “and I will became very angry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1517EXO2224sx9hfigs-metonymyבֶּ⁠חָ֑רֶב1I will kill you with the sword

To be killed with the sword is a metonym that means a person will die violently, perhaps while fighting in a war. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “violently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1518EXO2225v5jeכְּ⁠נֹשֶׁ֑ה1a moneylender

Alternate translation: “like one who lends money”

1519EXO2225g3ryלֹֽא־תְשִׂימ֥וּ⁠ן עָלָ֖י⁠ו נֶֽשֶׁךְ1charge him interest

Alternate translation: “you must not charge him extra money for borrowing” or “you must not charge him extra money for the loan”

1520EXO2227wi2mכְסוּתוֹ֙ לְ⁠בַדָּ֔⁠הּ1only covering

Alternate translation: “is his only coat” or “is his only garment to keep him warm”

1521EXO2227x7zbfigs-rquestionבַּ⁠מֶּ֣ה יִשְׁכָּ֔ב1What else can he sleep in?

This question adds emphasis. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “He will have nothing to wear while he sleeps!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1522EXO2228eel2אֱלֹהִ֖ים לֹ֣א תְקַלֵּ֑ל1You must not blaspheme me, God

Alternate translation: “Do not insult God” or “Do not speak evil about God”

1523EXO2228tdj6וְ⁠נָשִׂ֥יא בְ⁠עַמְּ⁠ךָ֖ לֹ֥א תָאֹֽר1nor curse a ruler

Alternate translation: “and do not ask God to do bad things to your ruler”

1524EXO2229p8nkfigs-doublenegativesלֹ֣א תְאַחֵ֑ר1You must not hold back offerings

If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “You must bring all of your offerings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1525EXO2230j345translate-numbersשִׁבְעַ֤ת1For seven days

Alternate translation: “7” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1526EXO2230m4wqtranslate-ordinalבַּ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠שְּׁמִינִ֖י1the eighth day

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “on day 8” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1527EXO2231jjhnfigs-abstractnounsוְ⁠אַנְשֵׁי־קֹ֖דֶשׁ תִּהְי֣וּ⁠ן לִ֑⁠י1the eighth day

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of holiness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “And you shall be holy men to men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1528EXO23introhk5t0

Exodus 23 General Notes

Structure

This chapter continues the list of case laws for Israel. It also touches on the patterns of life regarding the Sabbaths (verses 10-12) and Festivals (verses 14-19). At verse 20 Yahweh begins telling them about their future as they go to and live in the promised land.

Special Concepts in this Chapter

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.

1529EXO231we1y0General Information:

Yahweh continues telling Moses his laws for the people of Israel.

1530EXO231eeocfigs-abstractnounsלֹ֥א תִשָּׂ֖א שֵׁ֣מַע שָׁ֑וְא1dishonest witness

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of report and emptiness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “You must not report emptily” or “You must not report falsely” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1531EXO231l4xrשֵׁ֣מַע שָׁ֑וְא1General Information:

Alternate translation: “a false testimony”

1532EXO231fu5kfigs-idiomאַל־תָּ֤שֶׁת יָֽדְ⁠ךָ֙ עִם־רָשָׁ֔ע1dishonest witness

Here, to put your hand with the wicked means to support the lies that he is telling in order to harm someone else. The image is of putting out your hand to help him, to make him stronger than he would be on his own. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “You must not assist the wicked” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1533EXO231y1a3figs-metonymyעֵ֥ד חָמָֽס1dishonest witness

Here, violence can also mean “wrong.” Either way, it means to harm another person by committing injustice (violence to justice) by lying. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “a false witness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1534EXO232nqz9וְ⁠לֹא־תַעֲנֶ֣ה1nor may you bear witness

Alternate translation: “and you also must not speak”

1535EXO232z6ejfigs-metaphorלֹֽא־תִהְיֶ֥ה אַחֲרֵֽי־רַבִּ֖ים לְ⁠רָעֹ֑ת1siding with the crowd

This is a metaphor that describes ones agreeing with a group of people as if he actually walked behind that group. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “You must not do the evil that the crowd wants” or “You must not agree with the majority for evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1536EXO232nuagfigs-ellipsisלִ⁠נְטֹ֛ת…לְ⁠הַטֹּֽת1siding with the crowd

The phrase “from justice” is omitted twice but should be understood in both cases. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “to turn aside from justice … that turns aside from justice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1537EXO232tnv2לִ⁠נְטֹ֛ת…לְ⁠הַטֹּֽת1pervert justice

Here, to turn aside means to do illegal or immoral actions that result in an unjust ruling. Alternate translation: “to pervert justice … that perverts justice”

1538EXO236z2alלֹ֥א תַטֶּ֛ה מִשְׁפַּ֥ט אֶבְיֹנְ⁠ךָ֖ בְּ⁠רִיבֽ⁠וֹ1Do not thrust aside justice for your poor in his lawsuit

Alternate translation: “Do not decide to treat a poor man unjustly in legal matters”

1539EXO236vh76בְּ⁠רִיבֽ⁠וֹ1lawsuit

Here, in his lawsuit refers to any matter that a court decides.

1540EXO237ljdwfigs-metaphorמִ⁠דְּבַר־שֶׁ֖קֶר תִּרְחָ֑ק1I will not acquit the wicked

Here distance is used figuratively to tell the Israelites to have no part in deception. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “Do not speak deceptively” or “Do not join a false matter” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1541EXO237c6xlfigs-doubletוְ⁠נָקִ֤י וְ⁠צַדִּיק֙1I will not acquit the wicked

These two terms mean very similar things, both of which contrast with the wicked later in the verse. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “and … the person who has not done anything wrong or the person who always does what is right” or “and … the person who does right and not wrong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

1542EXO237mf4wלֹא־אַצְדִּ֖יק רָשָֽׁע1I will not acquit the wicked

Alternate translation: “I will not find the wicked not guilty” or “I will not say that a wicked person is innocent”

1543EXO238gh3vfigs-personificationכִּ֤י הַ⁠שֹּׁ֨חַד֙ יְעַוֵּ֣ר פִּקְחִ֔ים וִֽ⁠יסַלֵּ֖ף דִּבְרֵ֥י צַדִּיקִֽים1bribe blinds…perverts

Here, a “bribe” is described as if it could take action itself that negatively affects justice. If this might be confusing for your readers, you could express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “for if you do, an evil person can give money to blind the clear-sighted and to pervert the words of the righteous” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

1544EXO238ai37figs-metaphorכִּ֤י הַ⁠שֹּׁ֨חַד֙ יְעַוֵּ֣ר פִּקְחִ֔ים וִֽ⁠יסַלֵּ֖ף דִּבְרֵ֥י צַדִּיקִֽים1bribe blinds…perverts

To blind the clear-sighted is a metaphor that means causing those who know what is right to act like they do not. And perverts the words of the righteous could mean causes those who would speak the truth (in court) to lie or causes the judge to give an evil judgment or causes those listening to the words of the righteous to choose to act as if they had heard something different. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “for a bribe causes those who understand the right thing to do not to do it and causes good men to speak lies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1545EXO239mzu9אֶת־נֶ֣פֶשׁ הַ⁠גֵּ֔ר1the life of a foreigner

Alternate translation: “the feelings of the foreigner”

1546EXO2310rt7hתְּבוּאָתָֽ⁠הּ1its produce

Alternate translation: “the food its plants produce”

1547EXO2310gjyatranslate-numbersוְ⁠שֵׁ֥שׁ1its produce

Alternate translation: “And 6” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1548EXO2311waxptranslate-ordinalוְ⁠הַ⁠שְּׁבִיעִ֞ת1unplowed

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “But year 7” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1549EXO2311b5q6translate-unknownתִּשְׁמְטֶ֣⁠נָּה וּ⁠נְטַשְׁתָּ֗⁠הּ1fallow

This means to leave the land fallow, that is, in its natural state, unplowed, unplanted, not used to grow food. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1550EXO2311s4wvfigs-explicitוְ⁠אָֽכְלוּ֙ אֶבְיֹנֵ֣י עַמֶּ֔⁠ךָ1so 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. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. 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]])

1551EXO2312ij92שֽׁוֹרְ⁠ךָ֙ וַ⁠חֲמֹרֶ֔⁠ךָ1your ox and your donkey

Alternate translation: “your work animals”

1552EXO2312tajktranslate-numbersשֵׁ֤שֶׁת1any foreigner may rest and be refreshed

Alternate translation: “6” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1553EXO2312u07qtranslate-ordinalוּ⁠בַ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠שְּׁבִיעִ֖י1any foreigner may rest and be refreshed

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “and on day 7” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1554EXO2312gpu1figs-activepassiveוְ⁠יִנָּפֵ֥שׁ בֶּן־אֲמָתְ⁠ךָ֖ וְ⁠הַ⁠גֵּֽר1any foreigner may rest and be refreshed

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and the son of your female slave and the sojourner may refresh themselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1555EXO2313ldn8תִּשָּׁמֵ֑רוּ1Pay attention to

Alternate translation: “Do” or “Obey”

1556EXO2313va2jfigs-parallelismוְ⁠שֵׁ֨ם אֱלֹהִ֤ים אֲחֵרִים֙ לֹ֣א תַזְכִּ֔ירוּ לֹ֥א יִשָּׁמַ֖ע עַל־פִּֽי⁠ךָ1mention the names of other gods

These two instructions mean almost the same thing. If saying the same thing twice might be confusing for your readers, you can combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “Be sure never to speak the names of other gods” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

1557EXO2313x5tffigs-metonymyוְ⁠שֵׁ֨ם אֱלֹהִ֤ים אֲחֵרִים֙ לֹ֣א תַזְכִּ֔ירוּ לֹ֥א יִשָּׁמַ֖ע עַל־פִּֽי⁠ךָ1mention the names of other gods

These parallel phrases probably mean praying to other gods. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “Do not pray to other gods, never let me hear you do that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1558EXO2313apnwfigs-metonymyלֹ֥א יִשָּׁמַ֖ע עַל־פִּֽי⁠ךָ1mention the names of other gods

To be on your mouth means to speak. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “nor speak them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1559EXO2313s86pfigs-activepassiveלֹ֥א יִשָּׁמַ֖ע עַל־פִּֽי⁠ךָ1mention the names of other gods

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Also see previous note. Alternate translation: “nor speak them so someone could hear them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1560EXO2314ezghtranslate-numbersשָׁלֹ֣שׁ1mention the names of other gods

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

1561EXO2315bu7ntranslate-hebrewmonthsהָֽ⁠אָבִ֔יב1Aviv

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 how you translated this in Exodus 13:4. You could convert the Hebrew day and month into an approximate date on the calendar that your culture uses. However, the Jews used a lunar calendar, so if you use a solar calendar, the date will be different every year and the translation will not be entirely accurate. So you may just want to give the number of the day and the name of the month on the Hebrew calendar, and say approximately what time of year that is on your calendar in a footnote.(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths]])

1562EXO2315i88ntranslate-numbersשִׁבְעַ֣ת1Aviv

Alternate translation: “7” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1563EXO2315tx1vfigs-doublenegativesוְ⁠לֹא־יֵרָא֥וּ פָנַ֖⁠י רֵיקָֽם1not appear before me empty-handed

Understatement is used here to emphasize that the Israelites must bring a suitable offering to Yahweh. If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “You must not come to me without a proper offering” or “You must always bring an offering to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1564EXO2316ybsbוְ⁠חַ֤ג הַ⁠קָּצִיר֙1Festival of Ingathering

Elsewhere this is called the “Festival of Weeks.” See Exodus 34:22 and Deuteronomy 16:9 and following.

1565EXO2316pnx4וְ⁠חַ֤ג הָֽ⁠אָסִף֙1Festival of Ingathering

This festival celebrated the final harvesting of all the crops for the year. 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. See Deuteronomy 16:13. Alternate translation: “And the Festival of the Ingathering”

1566EXO2316wgxmfigs-metaphorבְּ⁠צֵ֣את הַ⁠שָּׁנָ֔ה1Festival of Ingathering

The phrase in the exiting of the year means at the end of the year. The year is pictured as something that is leaving. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “as the year goes out” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1567EXO2317t5xjfigs-metonymyיֵרָאֶה֙…אֶל־פְּנֵ֖י הָ⁠אָדֹ֥ן׀ יְהוָֽה׃1All your males must appear before the Lord Yahweh

Here, to appear to the face of the Lord Yahweh means to gather to worship. To the face is a metonym for Yahwehs presence, referring to worship. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “must come to worship the Lord Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1568EXO2320bssxfigs-metonymyלְ⁠פָנֶ֔י⁠ךָ1

This means “in front of you.” Alternate translation: “in front of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1569EXO2321mpfyfigs-metonymyהִשָּׁ֧מֶר מִ⁠פָּנָ֛י⁠ו1Be attentive to him

This means to respect him; from his face refers to his person. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “Show respect to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1570EXO2321pm7xfigs-activepassiveהִשָּׁ֧מֶר מִ⁠פָּנָ֛י⁠ו1Be attentive to him

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Pay attention to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1571EXO2321p5y3grammar-connect-logic-resultאַל־תַּמֵּ֣ר בּ֑⁠וֹ כִּ֣י לֹ֤א יִשָּׂא֙ לְ⁠פִשְׁעֲ⁠כֶ֔ם כִּ֥י שְׁמִ֖⁠י בְּ⁠קִרְבּֽ⁠וֹ׃1Do not provoke him, for he will not pardon

There are two reasons given for the instruction do not cause bitterness in him. They are connected in such a way that you could say: “Because my name is within him, he will not forgive your transgressions; therefore, do not cause bitterness in him.” The relation of the name and forgiveness is not explicit. Alternate translation: “If you provoke him, he will not pardon your sins, for my name is within him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

1572EXO2321p4jvfigs-metonymyשְׁמִ֖⁠י בְּ⁠קִרְבּֽ⁠וֹ1My name is on him

Here, name refers to Gods authority. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “he has my authority” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1573EXO2321gt76figs-metonymyוּ⁠שְׁמַ֥ע בְּ⁠קֹל֖⁠וֹ1If you indeed obey his voice

Here, voice represents what the angel says. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “and obey what he says” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1574EXO2322z1gnfigs-metonymyאִם־שָׁמֹ֤עַ תִּשְׁמַע֙ בְּ⁠קֹל֔⁠וֹ1If you indeed obey his voice

Here, voice represents what the angel says. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “if you carefully obey what he says” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1575EXO2322y9bmfigs-parallelismוְ⁠אָֽיַבְתִּי֙ אֶת־אֹ֣יְבֶ֔י⁠ךָ וְ⁠צַרְתִּ֖י אֶת־צֹרְרֶֽי⁠ךָ1an enemy to your enemies and an adversary to your adversaries

These two phrases mean the same thing and are used for emphasis. If saying the same thing twice might be confusing for your readers, you can combine the phrases into one. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

1576EXO2323x2nhfigs-metonymyלְ⁠פָנֶי⁠ךָ֒1

This phrase, before your face, means “in front of you.” Alternate translation: “in front of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1577EXO2324a1d5figs-explicitוְ⁠לֹ֥א תַעֲשֶׂ֖ה כְּ⁠מַֽעֲשֵׂי⁠הֶ֑ם1You must not…do as they do

The Israelites must not live as the people who worship other gods. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “and you must not live as the people live who worship those gods” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1578EXO2325t3irfigs-merismוּ⁠בֵרַ֥ךְ אֶֽת־לַחְמְ⁠ךָ֖ וְ⁠אֶת־מֵימֶ֑י⁠ךָ1he will bless your bread and water

Here, your bread and your water is a merism that means food and drink. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “and he will bless your food and drink” or “and he will bless you by giving you food and drink” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

1579EXO2325ydl4figs-123personוּ⁠בֵרַ֥ךְ…וַ⁠הֲסִרֹתִ֥י1he 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]])

1580EXO2326q4gzfigs-doublenegativesלֹ֥א תִהְיֶ֛ה מְשַׁכֵּלָ֥ה וַ⁠עֲקָרָ֖ה1No woman will be barren or will miscarry her young in your land

If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “Every woman will be able to become pregnant and give birth to healthy babies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1581EXO2326i1r9מְשַׁכֵּלָ֥ה1miscarry

to have a pregnancy end early and unexpectedly, resulting in the death of the baby

1582EXO2326geqgfigs-idiomאֶת־מִסְפַּ֥ר יָמֶ֖י⁠ךָ אֲמַלֵּֽא1miscarry

This is an idiom that means to live a long time. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “I will give you a long life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1583EXO2327yps8figs-metonymyלְ⁠פָנֶ֔י⁠ךָ1miscarry

This means “ahead of you.” Alternate translation: “before you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1584EXO2327q901figs-idiomוְ⁠נָתַתִּ֧י אֶת־כָּל־אֹיְבֶ֛י⁠ךָ אֵלֶ֖י⁠ךָ עֹֽרֶף1miscarry

This is an idiom meaning that the enemies will turn and run away (showing the Israelites the backs of their necks). If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “and I will make all of your enemies flee” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1585EXO2328t0r1figs-metonymyלְ⁠פָנֶ֑י⁠ךָ…מִ⁠לְּ⁠פָנֶֽי⁠ךָ1miscarry

This means “ahead of you.” Alternate translation: “before you … from before you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1586EXO2328cg7itranslate-unknownהַ⁠צִּרְעָ֖ה1hornets

The hornet is a flying insect that can sting people and cause pain. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1587EXO2328oocwgrammar-collectivenounsהַ⁠צִּרְעָ֖ה…וְ⁠גֵרְשָׁ֗ה1hornets

Here, hornet is used in the singular but refers to a large group of the flying, stinging insects. It agrees in number with hornet. It may be necessary to translate as a plural. Alternate translation: “hornets … and they will drive out” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

1588EXO2329wfdifigs-metonymyמִ⁠פָּנֶ֖י⁠ךָ1miscarry

This means “ahead of you.” Alternate translation: “from before you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1589EXO2329i9aqfigs-explicitפֶּן־תִּהְיֶ֤ה הָ⁠אָ֨רֶץ֙ שְׁמָמָ֔ה1or the land would become abandoned

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could make the rest of the idea explicit. Alternate translation: “lest the land become desolate because no one would be living in the land” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1590EXO2330mne7figs-metonymyמִ⁠פָּנֶ֑י⁠ךָ1miscarry

This means “ahead of you.” Alternate translation: “from before you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1591EXO2331my2efigs-metonymyמִ⁠פָּנֶֽי⁠ךָ1miscarry

This means “ahead of you.” Alternate translation: “from before you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1592EXO2333d1fpfigs-metaphorכִּֽי־יִהְיֶ֥ה לְ⁠ךָ֖ לְ⁠מוֹקֵֽשׁ1this 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. It could also be saying that leaving the other people around will make it so that the Israelites see the other peoples worship and are lured (like in a trap) into worshiping the other gods, which is a sin against Yahweh. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “Worshiping them will surely destroy you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1593EXO24introb83l0

Exodus 24 General Notes

Structure

  • v. 1-2: Yahweh summons Moses
  • v. 3-8: Moses reads the covenant and the people accept it; this is ritually marked by sacrifice and sprinkling of blood
  • v. 9-11: Moses and Israelite elders go up the mountain, see God and eat
  • v. 12-15: Yahweh summons Moses further up the mountain without the other elders, and he goes
  • v. 16-18: Description of Yahwehs glory, and Moses is at the top of the mountain

Potential Translation Issues

  • there are a number of similes used to describe peoples encounter with God
  • “covenant” appears in a variety of ways
  • the mountain, the mountain of God, and Mount Sinai are all the same location

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]])

1594EXO241hji6writing-newevent0Nadab…Abihu

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]])

1595EXO241c97itranslate-namesנָדָ֣ב וַ⁠אֲבִיה֔וּא1Nadab…Abihu

Nadab and Abihu are mens names. See how you translated these names in Exodus 6:23. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1596EXO241zukbfigs-123personאֶל־יְהוָ֗ה1Nadab…Abihu

Yahweh refers to himself in the third person. If this is confusing in your language, you may use the first person. Alternate translation: “to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

1597EXO241nm3ttranslate-numbersוְ⁠שִׁבְעִ֖ים1seventy of Israels elders

Alternate translation: “and 70” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1598EXO241ymipfigs-explicitוְ⁠הִשְׁתַּחֲוִיתֶ֖ם1seventy of Israels elders

Here, after bow down, “to me” is implied. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “and you shall bow down to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1599EXO242p06owriting-pronounsוְ⁠הֵ֖ם1seventy of Israels elders

Here, they refers to all the other people mentioned in verse 1. Alternate translation: “and Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and the elders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

1600EXO242dqnpfigs-123personאֶל־יְהוָ֔ה1seventy of Israels elders

Yahweh refers to himself in the third person. If this is confusing in your language, you may use the first person. Alternate translation: “to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

1601EXO243sbc3writing-newevent0with one voice

Verses 3-8 tell of a different scene than the rest of the chapter, which may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. It seems that there were some preparations needed before Moses and the elders could go up to meet Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

1602EXO243nuqr0with one voice

See Exodus 19:8 for how you translated a very similar event.

1603EXO243cg32figs-idiomק֤וֹל אֶחָד֙1with one voice

Here, with one voice is an idiom that means the people were in complete agreement. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “together” or “in agreement” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1604EXO244h7ggתַּ֣חַת הָ⁠הָ֑ר1foot of the mountain

Alternate translation: “at the base of the mountain”

1605EXO244uipftranslate-numbersוּ⁠שְׁתֵּ֤ים עֶשְׂרֵה֙…לִ⁠שְׁנֵ֥ים עָשָׂ֖ר1foot of the mountain

Alternate translation: “and 12 … according to the 12” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1606EXO247c9tmtranslate-unknownסֵ֣פֶר הַ⁠בְּרִ֔ית1foot of the mountain

Here, book does not mean something in our modern format. It was likely a piece of papyrus (an early form of paper made from reeds) or animal skin that rolled up. Alternate translation: “the Covenant he had written down” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1607EXO248h9fffigs-explicitהַ⁠דָּ֔ם1Then Moses took the blood

This refers to the blood that Moses had put into the bowls. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1608EXO248juxffigs-explicitעַ֥ל כָּל־הַ⁠דְּבָרִ֖ים הָ⁠אֵֽלֶּה׃1Then Moses took the blood

These words refers to what Moses just read aloud to them, that is, Yahwehs commands. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “which I just read aloud to you and you agreed to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1609EXO249izl5writing-newevent0Nadab…Abihu

A new scene begins with this verse, which may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. Here the narrative is connected to verse 2. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

1610EXO249uz7ytranslate-namesנָדָב֙ וַ⁠אֲבִיה֔וּא1Nadab…Abihu

Nadab and Abihu are mens names. See how you translated these names in Exodus 6:23. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1611EXO249nuq7figs-explicitוַ⁠יַּ֥עַל1Nadab…Abihu

The men went up the mountain. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1612EXO2410ic4sfigs-personificationוְ⁠תַ֣חַת רַגְלָ֗י⁠ו1Under his feet

And under his feet speaks of God as if he had human feet. If this might be confusing for your readers, you could express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “And below where God was” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

1613EXO2410q8snלִבְנַ֣ת1pavement

a hard surface for walking or riding

1614EXO2410pm87translate-unknownהַ⁠סַּפִּ֔יר1sapphire stone

A sapphire is a gemstone that is blue in color. If there is a blue gemstone that your people are familiar with, you may use it here, as the exact gemstone is not certain. You may also describe it. Alternate translation: “a blue gemstone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1615EXO2410zd6ufigs-simileוּ⁠כְ⁠עֶ֥צֶם הַ⁠שָּׁמַ֖יִם לָ⁠טֹֽהַר1as clear as the sky itself

The point of this comparison is the blueness of the tile. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent comparison or express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “and it was blue like the sky” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1616EXO2411jds6figs-metonymyוְ⁠אֶל־אֲצִילֵי֙ בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל לֹ֥א שָׁלַ֖ח יָד֑⁠וֹ1God did not lay a hand on the Israelite leaders

Here, his hand refers to his judgement. This means that God did not harm the leaders. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “God did not harm the Israelite leaders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1617EXO2411b398grammar-connect-logic-contrastוְ⁠אֶל־אֲצִילֵי֙ בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל לֹ֥א שָׁלַ֖ח יָד֑⁠וֹ1God did not lay a hand on the Israelite leaders

What would be expected is that they would die if they saw God. The Israelite elders ability to see God and live is unexpected. Be sure your translation conveys that. Alternate translation: “However, he did not send out his hand to the leaders of the sons of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

1618EXO2412dx4ffigs-explicitלְ⁠הוֹרֹתָֽ⁠ם1tablets of stone and the law and commandments

This means so that Moses and the other Israelite leaders could teach the laws and commandments to the Israelite people. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1619EXO2413flw7writing-participantsוִ⁠יהוֹשֻׁ֖עַ1with his assistant Joshua

Joshua is introduced here again. Use the natural form in your language for reintroducing a character. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

1620EXO2413gv5eוִ⁠יהוֹשֻׁ֖עַ מְשָׁרְת֑⁠וֹ1with his assistant Joshua

The word translated servant here is usually associated with a higher position, like a government minister. Avoid using a word that implies a lower-class serving role. Alternate translation: “and Joshua his assistant”

1621EXO2414mhvjgrammar-connect-time-sequentialוְ⁠אֶל־הַ⁠זְּקֵנִ֤ים אָמַר֙1wait for us

The structure of the Hebrew indicates but does not require that this speech by Moses happened before verse 13 (hence had said). The ULT takes this view, however, for languages where it is hard to express events out of order, the UST reflects the other grammatical possibility and says in 24:13 that Moses started up the mountain and in 24:15 that he went the rest of the way up the mountain. Following this, you can view this verse as if Moses paused and gave these final instructions as he was leaving the elders behind, thus keeping a sequential structure. Either approach is permissible by the text, but the approach of the ULT is preferred, if possible. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])

1622EXO2414qiy4לָ֣⁠נוּ1wait for us

Alternate translation: “Joshua and me”

1623EXO2414uc7rtranslate-namesוְ⁠חוּר֙1Hur

Hur is a mans name. See how you translated this name in Exodus 17:10. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1624EXO2414jyh8וְ⁠הִנֵּ֨ה1Hur

Behold is used to draw attention to important information that Moses is about to tell them. It is frequently omitted. If your language uses a statement to draw attention to important information, you should consider using it here. Alternate translation: “Remember”

1625EXO2414dqhjfigs-idiomמִי־בַ֥עַל דְּבָרִ֖ים1Hur

This is an idiom that means that someone has a legal dispute or complaint. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “Whoever has a legal claim” or “Anyone with a law case” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1626EXO2416j2s5figs-metonymyכְּבוֹד־יְהוָה֙1Yahwehs glory

This was the brilliant light of Yahwehs presence. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “the brilliant light showing Yahwehs presence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1627EXO2416sb1otranslate-numbersשֵׁ֣שֶׁת1Yahwehs glory

Alternate translation: “6” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1628EXO2416uwddtranslate-ordinalבַּ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠שְּׁבִיעִ֖י1Yahwehs glory

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “on day number 7” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1629EXO2417e4n6figs-simileכְּ⁠אֵ֥שׁ אֹכֶ֖לֶת1like a devouring fire

This means the glory of Yahweh was very large and seemed to burn brightly, like a fire. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent comparison or express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “like a big fire burning” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1630EXO2417k5ljfigs-idiomלְ⁠עֵינֵ֖י בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל1in the eyes of the Israelites

Their eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents their thoughts or judgment about what they saw. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent idiom from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. See how you translated a similar expression in 15:26. Alternate translation: “to the Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1631EXO2418h1wytranslate-numbersאַרְבָּעִ֣ים י֔וֹם וְ⁠אַרְבָּעִ֖ים לָֽיְלָה1forty days and forty nights

Alternate translation: “forty days and forty nights” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1632EXO25introt23a0

Exodus 25 General Notes

Structure:

  • v. 1-7: Instructions for gifts the Israelites may give to help build the place where they will worship God
  • v. 8-9: Introductory building instructions
  • v. 10-22: Instructions for building the Box of the Testimony
  • v. 23-30: Instructions for building the table
  • v. 31-39: Instructions for building the lampstand
  • v. 40: Summary instruction

Special Concepts in this Chapter

  • The tent of meeting and Box of the Testimony are introduced in this chapter.
  • Translators will need to take special care in translating the concept of atonement.

Potential Translation Issues in this Chapter:

  • There are many unfamiliar items in this chapter. Fortunately they are mostly all physical items. Translators will have to try to understand what each item is and translate it into the closest equivalent in their culture. It may be helpful for translators to try to find images depicting some of the items the Israelites were to make.
  • There are some biblical weights and measurements that translators may not have encountered before.
  • From verse 11 until the end of chapter 30, almost every instruction regarding the construction of the tent of meeting and all the associated items are given with a singular form of “you,” as if Moses himself would make them. However, it is clear and made explicit in chapter 31 that certain skilled craftsmen will receive these instructions from Moses and make these items. In some languages you may need to change from second to third person throughout, following the pattern in 25:10. There are a few exceptions which will have their own note. See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youcrowd]].
1633EXO252ygtdfigs-quotemarksדַּבֵּר֙1who is motivated by a willing heart

The beginning of this verse marks the start of a very long direct quote which continues until the end of Exo 30:10. 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]])

1634EXO252tktufigs-quotationsדַּבֵּר֙ אֶל־בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל וְ⁠יִקְחוּ־לִ֖⁠י תְּרוּמָ֑ה1who is motivated by a willing heart

In some languages you may have to make and they shall take a contribution for me a direct quote. Note that this will make it a second-level quotation and you will need to mark it with second-level quotation marking if your language uses them. Alternate translation: “Say to the sons of Israel, You shall take a contribution for me. ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

1635EXO252r5yrfigs-idiomאֲשֶׁ֣ר יִדְּבֶ֣⁠נּוּ לִבּ֔⁠וֹ1who is motivated by a willing heart

This is an idiom that indicates a persons desire to give an offering. Many languages will have a similar idiom, though the body part may vary. Alternate translation: “who wants to give one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1636EXO252k78qfigs-youdualתִּקְח֖וּ1You must receive

The word you is plural and refers to Moses and the leaders. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

1637EXO254c1qnfigs-explicitוּ⁠תְכֵ֧לֶת וְ⁠אַרְגָּמָ֛ן וְ⁠תוֹלַ֥עַת שָׁנִ֖י1blue, purple, and scarlet material

This could mean: (1) “material that is dyed blue, purple, and scarlet,” probably wool yarn, or (2) “blue, purple and scarlet dye” to dye the linen. The original audience would have known what was meant. This material seems to have been used for embroidery later, so “yarn” or ”thread” may be the best understanding. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1638EXO254c958translate-unknownוְ⁠תוֹלַ֥עַת שָׁנִ֖י1scarlet

A bright red color for dying cloth was extracted from these worms. Alternate translation: “and bright red” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1639EXO255ayuptranslate-unknownמְאָדָּמִ֛ים1scarlet

When animal skins are tanned (processed into usable leather), they become reddish in color. It is not clear whether these hides are dyed red or simply reddened in the tanning process. Alternate translation: “tanned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1640EXO255va28translate-unknownתְּחָשִׁ֖ים1scarlet

The meaning of this word is not known. It may refer to some water mammal that has skin that can be made into a high-quality leather. Sea cows on Wikipedia (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1641EXO255d4fatranslate-unknownשִׁטִּֽים1scarlet

A small tree with spreading foliage and durable wood. See on Wikipedia (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1642EXO256i6gptranslate-unknownבְּשָׂמִים֙1spices

Here, spices are things made from parts of plants that people dry and then grind into a powder to put in oil or food, giving it a particular smell or flavor. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1643EXO257mg4ftranslate-unknownאַבְנֵי־שֹׁ֕הַם1onyx

An onyx is a valuable stone that has layers of white and black, red, or brown. If this stone is unknown to your people, consider translating it by using a word for a familiar stone with a similar pattern, if possible. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1644EXO257c3hkוְ⁠אַבְנֵ֖י1precious stones

Alternate translation: “and valuable gems for” or “ and treasured gems for”

1645EXO259m1npfigs-yousingularאוֹתְ⁠ךָ֔1show you in the plans

Here, you is singular and refers to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])

1646EXO259w4scכֵּלָ֑י⁠ו1tabernacle

Here, utensils is a general term that you could translate by a broad term that could encompass all of the things used in the Dwelling, as described in this and the several following chapters. Alternate translation: “its implements”

1647EXO259c9qefigs-youdualתַּעֲשֽׂוּ1You must make it

Here, you is plural and refers to Moses and 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]])

1648EXO259tc2kfigs-123personתַּעֲשֽׂוּ1You must make it

Since Moses does not construct these items himself, you may consider shifting the instructions to the third person if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “they shall make it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

1649EXO2510o8dltranslate-unknownשִׁטִּ֑ים1two and a half cubits…one cubit and a half

These trees, acacias, are small trees with spreading foliage and durable wood. See how you translated this in 25:5. See on Wikipedia (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1650EXO2510cs23translate-bdistanceאַמָּתַ֨יִם וָ⁠חֵ֜צִי…וְ⁠אַמָּ֤ה וָ⁠חֵ֨צִי֙…וְ⁠אַמָּ֥ה וָ⁠חֵ֖צִי1two and a half cubits…one cubit and a half

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. A cubit is approximately 46cm. For your reference, a more precise conversion to metric is: 115cm … 69cm … 69cm (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1651EXO2510saf8translate-fractionוָ⁠חֵ֜צִי…וָ⁠חֵ֨צִי֙…וָ⁠חֵ֖צִי1two and a half cubits…one cubit and a half

A half means one part out of two equal parts. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

1652EXO2512wbq8translate-unknownוְ⁠יָצַ֣קְתָּ לּ֗⁠וֹ אַרְבַּע֙ טַבְּעֹ֣ת זָהָ֔ב1cast four rings of gold

Casting rings was a process in which gold was melted, poured into a mold that was in the shape of a ring, and then allowed to cool and harden. If this sort of metal-working process is unknown to your people, you may simply describe it, or use a word meaning “make,” as the UST does. The UST approach is preferred, as the creation process is not in focus here, and it would be cumbersome to include the description in the text. You could use a word meaning “make,” and include the description in a footnote if you are including those and your team feels it is important to understand. Alternate translation: “You shall make four rings of gold by melting the gold and pouring it into molds” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1653EXO2513i5mctranslate-unknownשִׁטִּ֑ים1cast four rings of gold

A small tree with spreading foliage and durable wood. See how you translated this in 25:5. See on Wikipedia (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1654EXO2515k67pfigs-parallelismבְּ⁠טַבְּעֹת֙ הָ⁠אָרֹ֔ן יִהְי֖וּ הַ⁠בַּדִּ֑ים לֹ֥א יָסֻ֖רוּ מִמֶּֽ⁠נּוּ1General Information:

These two phrases mean similar things. Yahweh is saying the same thing in two different ways to emphasize how important this command is. If saying the same thing twice might be confusing for your readers, you can combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “The poles belong in the rings of the box; no one is ever to remove them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

1655EXO2515aea1figs-activepassiveבְּ⁠טַבְּעֹת֙ הָ⁠אָרֹ֔ן יִהְי֖וּ הַ⁠בַּדִּ֑ים לֹ֥א יָסֻ֖רוּ מִמֶּֽ⁠נּוּ1General Information:

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language, as seen in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1656EXO2517ast8translate-bdistanceאַמָּתַ֤יִם וָ⁠חֵ֨צִי֙…וְ⁠אַמָּ֥ה וָ⁠חֵ֖צִי1two and a half cubits…a cubit and a half

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. A cubit is approximately 46cm. For your reference, a more precise conversion to the metric system is: 115 centimeters … 69 centimeters … 69 centimeters (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1657EXO2517c8o7translate-fractionוָ⁠חֵ֨צִי֙…וָ⁠חֵ֖צִי1two and a half cubits…a cubit and a half

A half means one part out of two equal parts. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

1658EXO2519b4l9מִן־הַ⁠כַּפֹּ֛רֶת תַּעֲשׂ֥וּ אֶת־הַ⁠כְּרֻבִ֖ים עַל־שְׁנֵ֥י קְצוֹתָֽי⁠ו1They must be made

This seems to indicate that the cherubim should be formed out of the same piece of gold as the rest of the lid. It may, however, mean that at the end they should be one piece, so the gold should be heated to melting and the lid and cherubim joined together. Alternate translation: “You shall join the cherubim to the atonement lid on its two ends”

1659EXO2522zu9ufigs-yousingularלְ⁠ךָ֮…אִתְּ⁠ךָ֜…אוֹתְ⁠ךָ֖1It is at the ark that I will meet with you

Here, you is singular and refers to Moses. If you have been using a plural you for Yahwehs commands which have been to give to others, make sure you use the singular form of “you” here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])

1660EXO2523t312translate-bdistanceשִׁטִּ֑ים אַמָּתַ֤יִם אָרְכּ⁠וֹ֙ וְ⁠אַמָּ֣ה רָחְבּ֔⁠וֹ וְ⁠אַמָּ֥ה וָ⁠חֵ֖צִי קֹמָתֽ⁠וֹ1two cubits…one cubit…a cubit and a half

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. A cubit is approximately 46 centimeters. For your reference, a more precise conversion to metric is: 115 centimeters … 46 centimeters … 69 centimeters (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1661EXO2523a2o9translate-fractionוָ⁠חֵ֖צִי1two cubits…one cubit…a cubit and a half

A half means one part out of two equal parts. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

1662EXO2524f20e0two cubits…one cubit…a cubit and a half

This verse is almost identical to 25:11.

1663EXO2525awi7translate-bdistanceטֹ֖פַח1one handbreadth wide

You can convert this length to a measurement system familiar to your people if that is the style of translation that you are using. A handbreadth is a measurement of approximately eight centimeters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1664EXO2525bit8לּ֥⁠וֹ1frame for it

Alternate translation: “for the table”

1665EXO2527jdh4figs-idiomלְ⁠בָתִּ֣ים1The rings must be attached

Here, to house the poles means that the rings will hold the poles. Since the rings are where the poles belong for use when carrying the table, the rings are figuratively in their house. If your language has a similar idiom meaning “place of belonging,” you may use it, or you may translate the idea. Alternate translation: “to be a place for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1666EXO2528l4fkfigs-activepassiveוְ⁠נִשָּׂא־בָ֖⁠ם אֶת־הַ⁠שֻּׁלְחָֽן1so that the table may be carried with them

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “And you shall carry the table with them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1667EXO2529nrmptranslate-unknownקְּעָרֹתָ֜י⁠ו וְ⁠כַפֹּתָ֗י⁠ו וּ⁠קְשׂוֹתָי⁠ו֙ וּ⁠מְנַקִּיֹּתָ֔י⁠ו1to be used to pour out drink offerings

We do not know precisely what these dishes were. It is likely that the plates were mostly flat dishes for holding the bread that would be on the table. The pans may have been shallow bowls or deep plates for holding incense, or they may have been something more like a ladle or spoon. The pitchers probably held wine to be poured into the bowls for the drink offerings. You will need to translate using the closest word for each such item in your culture. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1668EXO2529v78dfigs-activepassiveאֲשֶׁ֥ר יֻסַּ֖ךְ בָּ⁠הֵ֑ן1to be used to pour out drink offerings

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “from which the priests will pour out” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1669EXO2530uth7figs-metonymyלֶ֥חֶם פָּנִ֖ים1bread of the presence

Here, faces figuratively represents the presence of Yahweh. This bread represented the presence of God. Alternate translation: “the bread of the Presence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1670EXO2530kh7cfigs-metonymyלְ⁠פָנַ֥⁠י1bread of the presence

Here, face figuratively represents the presence of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “in front of me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1671EXO2531kc3qמִקְשָׁ֞ה1hammered gold

Alternate translation: “of beaten gold” See how you translated this in Exodus 25:18.

1672EXO2531g25lfigs-activepassiveתֵּעָשֶׂ֤ה1The lampstand is to be made

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you shall make” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1673EXO2533i7bhtranslate-unknownמְֽשֻׁקָּדִ֞ים1almond blossoms

Almond blossoms are white or pink flowers with five petals. (An almond is a kind of nut.) You may want to include a short description as a footnote or in the text (if that is your translation style) the first time this object is encountered. Alternate translation: “shaped like the five-petaled almond flower” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1674EXO2535lk10וְ⁠כַפְתֹּ֡ר תַּחַת֩ שְׁנֵ֨י הַ⁠קָּנִ֜ים מִמֶּ֗⁠נָּה וְ⁠כַפְתֹּר֙ תַּ֣חַת שְׁנֵ֤י הַ⁠קָּנִים֙ מִמֶּ֔⁠נָּה וְ⁠כַפְתֹּ֕ר תַּחַת־שְׁנֵ֥י הַ⁠קָּנִ֖ים מִמֶּ֑⁠נָּה לְ⁠שֵׁ֨שֶׁת֙ הַ⁠קָּנִ֔ים הַ⁠יֹּצְאִ֖ים מִן־הַ⁠מְּנֹרָֽה1made as one piece with it

Alternate translation: “There must be a leafy base under the first pair of branches—made as one piece with it, and a leafy base under the second pair of branches—also made as one piece with it. In the same way there must be a leafy base under the third pair of branches, made as one piece with it. It must be the same for all six branches extending out from the lampstand.”

1675EXO2536r7yzמִקְשָׁ֥ה1made as one piece with it

Alternate translation: “of beaten gold” See how you translated this in Exodus 25:18.

1676EXO2537dfn6figs-metonymyוְ⁠הֵאִ֖יר עַל־עֵ֥בֶר פָּנֶֽי⁠הָ1for them to give light from it

Here, face figuratively represents the location of the lampstand. Alternate translation: “so they shine light near it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1677EXO2539ff5ptranslate-bweightכִּכָּ֛ר1one talent

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. A talent weighs about 33 kilograms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

1678EXO2540y081figs-explicitוּ⁠רְאֵ֖ה וַ⁠עֲשֵׂ֑ה1you are being shown on the mountain

All the items described in this chapter are included in what Moses is told to see and make. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “See and make everything I have described” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1679EXO2540gytefigs-metonymyוּ⁠רְאֵ֖ה וַ⁠עֲשֵׂ֑ה1you are being shown on the mountain

Here, see relates to observing or overseeing. Essentially, Yahweh is telling Moses to be careful as he observes the pattern on the mountain and as he sees the craftsmen of Israel working on these items, so that they are made correctly. Alternate translation: “Observe carefully and work exactly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1680EXO2540l7jefigs-activepassiveאַתָּ֥ה מָרְאֶ֖ה1you are being shown on the mountain

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I am showing you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1681EXO26introemw70

Exodus 26 General Notes

  • The sacred tent has four layers (from inside to out): linen, goats hair, tanned rams skins, and fine leather.
  • There are multiple different curtains described using three different Hebrew words: one sort of curtains to make the walls of the tent (verses 1-13), another to separate the Holy Place and Most Holy Place (also known as Holy of Holies) (verses 31-34), and another for the entrance of the sacred tent (verses 36-37). If there are words in your language that would make a distinction between these sorts of hanging cloths, it would be appropriate to make a distinction in your translation.

Structure and Formatting

This chapter is a continuation of the material in the previous chapter.

  • v. 1-30: Instructions for constructing the exterior of the sacred tent
    • v. 1-6: Inner covering
    • v. 7-14: Outer covering layers
    • v. 15-30: Wooden framework
  • v. 31-35: Instructions for arranging the interior of the sacred tent
  • v. 36-37: Instructions for hanging the entrance curtain

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 box would be stored. This would eventually become the Dwelling. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/tabernacle]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])

1682EXO261ks8rfigs-yousingularתַּעֲשֶׂ֖ה1You 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. Alternate translation: “, tell a craftsman to make” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])

1683EXO261vre7וּ⁠תְכֵ֤לֶת וְ⁠אַרְגָּמָן֙ וְ⁠תֹלַ֣עַת שָׁנִ֔י1curtains

This could mean: (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.

1684EXO261xvs7translate-unknownוְ⁠תֹלַ֣עַת שָׁנִ֔י1scarlet wool

A bright red color for dying cloth was extracted from these worms. Alternate translation: “and bright red” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1685EXO261ni5dtranslate-unknownשֵׁ֣שׁ מָשְׁזָ֗ר1scarlet wool

This was cloth made from fine linen threads that someone twisted together to make a stronger thread. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1686EXO261n2vmחֹשֵׁ֖ב1craftsman

a person who is skilled in making beautiful objects by hand

1687EXO262dkr6translate-bdistanceשְׁמֹנֶ֤ה וְ⁠עֶשְׂרִים֙ בָּֽ⁠אַמָּ֔ה…אַרְבַּ֣ע בָּ⁠אַמָּ֔ה1twenty-eight cubits…four cubits

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. A cubit is approximately 46 centimeters. For your reference, a more precise conversion to metric is: 12.9 meters … 184 centimeters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1688EXO263ba6wfigs-activepassiveחֲמֵ֣שׁ הַ⁠יְרִיעֹ֗ת תִּֽהְיֶ֨יןָ֙ חֹֽבְרֹ֔ת אִשָּׁ֖ה אֶל־אֲחֹתָ֑⁠הּ וְ⁠חָמֵ֤שׁ יְרִיעֹת֙ חֹֽבְרֹ֔ת אִשָּׁ֖ה אֶל־אֲחֹתָֽ⁠הּ1Five curtains must be joined to each other…must also be joined to each other

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Join five of the curtains each to another, and join five of the curtains each to another.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1689EXO264ghz8תְּכֵ֗לֶת1one set

Alternate translation: “blue yarn” or “blue cloth”

1690EXO264wdumtranslate-ordinalהָ⁠אֶחָ֔ת…הַ⁠שֵּׁנִֽית1one set

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1691EXO264d0slבַּ⁠חֹבָ֑רֶת1one set

Alternate translation: “in one set of five curtains”

1692EXO264gjt1בַּ⁠מַּחְבֶּ֖רֶת הַ⁠שֵּׁנִֽית1one set

Alternate translation: “in the other set of five curtains”

1693EXO265nkr7figs-idiomאִשָּׁ֖ה אֶל־אֲחֹתָֽ⁠הּ1one set

This is an idiom meaning “to each other.” If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “one to the other” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1694EXO266sns4וְ⁠עָשִׂ֕יתָ חֲמִשִּׁ֖ים קַרְסֵ֣י זָהָ֑ב וְ⁠חִבַּרְתָּ֨ אֶת־הַ⁠יְרִיעֹ֜ת אִשָּׁ֤ה אֶל־אֲחֹתָ⁠הּ֙1clasps

The clasps fit into the loops (verses 4 and 5) to hold the curtains together.

1695EXO266k12sfigs-idiomאִשָּׁ֤ה אֶל־אֲחֹתָ⁠הּ֙1clasps

This is the same idiom as in the previous verse, meaning together. Alternate translation: “to each other” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1696EXO266b242אֶחָֽד1clasps

Alternate translation: “as though it were one piece”

1697EXO267jeazלְ⁠אֹ֖הֶל1eleven

This refers to an outer tent over the sacred tent. Alternate translation: “for an outer tent”

1698EXO267t7t3translate-numbersעַשְׁתֵּי־עֶשְׂרֵ֥ה1eleven

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

1699EXO268p423translate-numbersשְׁלֹשִׁים֙…אַרְבַּ֣ע…לְ⁠עַשְׁתֵּ֥י עֶשְׂרֵ֖ה1thirty…four

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

1700EXO268v7i1translate-bdistanceשְׁלֹשִׁים֙ בָּֽ⁠אַמָּ֔ה…אַרְבַּ֣ע בָּ⁠אַמָּ֔ה1cubits

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. A cubit is approximately 46cm. For your reference, a more precise conversion to metric is: 13.8 meter … 184 centimeters (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1701EXO269kb9xfigs-metonymyאֶל־מ֖וּל פְּנֵ֥י הָ⁠אֹֽהֶל1cubits

Here, face is probably referring to the entrance of the tent. The opening for the protective tent and the sacred tent would have been coordinated so they were in the same place. Alternate translation: “in front of the entrance of the tent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1702EXO269q3ogהָ⁠אֹֽהֶל1cubits

As in verse 7, the tent refers to the outer tent over the sacred tent. Alternate translation: “the outer tent”

1703EXO2610etf70loops

See how you translated a very similar text in Exodus 26:4.

1704EXO2611cq36translate-unknownהַ⁠קְּרָסִים֙1clasps

The clasps fit into the loops to hold the curtains together. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:6. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1705EXO2612hftktranslate-fractionחֲצִ֤י1clasps

A half means one part out of two equal parts. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

1706EXO2613k4citranslate-bdistanceוְ⁠הָ⁠אַמָּ֨ה…וְ⁠הָ⁠אַמָּ֤ה1cubit

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. A cubit is approximately 46 centimeters. For your reference, a more precise conversion to metric is: 46 centimeters (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1707EXO2614kii8translate-unknownתְּחָשִׁ֖ים1a covering of ram skins dyed red, and another covering of fine leather

The meaning of this word, sea cows, is not known. It may refer to a water mammal that has skin that can be made into a high-quality leather. Sea cows on Wikipedia See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 25:5. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1708EXO2614yz3vtranslate-unknownמְאָדָּמִ֑ים1dyed red

When animal skins are tanned (processed into usable leather), they become reddish. It is not clear if these hides are dyed red or simply reddened in the tanning process. See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 25:5. Alternate translation: “tanned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1709EXO2615y85ltranslate-unknownהַ⁠קְּרָשִׁ֖ים1frames

Here, frames refers to open wooden structures made to hold the curtains. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1710EXO2615tw2htranslate-unknownשִׁטִּ֖ים1frames

The acacias are relatively small trees with spreading foliage and durable wood. See how you translated this in 25:5. See on Wikipedia (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1711EXO2616k4b7translate-numbersעֶ֥שֶׂר…וְ⁠אַמָּה֙ וַ⁠חֲצִ֣י הָֽ⁠אַמָּ֔ה1ten cubits…one and a half cubits

Alternate translation: “10 … 1.5 cubits” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1712EXO2616z2rvtranslate-bdistanceעֶ֥שֶׂר אַמּ֖וֹת…וְ⁠אַמָּה֙ וַ⁠חֲצִ֣י הָֽ⁠אַמָּ֔ה1ten cubits…one and a half cubits

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. A cubit is approximately 46 centimeters. For your reference, a more precise conversion to metric is: 4.6 meters … 69 centimeters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1713EXO2616p3avtranslate-fractionוַ⁠חֲצִ֣י1ten cubits…one and a half cubits

A half means one part out of two equal parts. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

1714EXO2617zwfjtranslate-unknownיָד֗וֹת1ten cubits…one and a half cubits

Here, the term tenons means a part of the wood sticking out from the rest of the frame so that it can be put into a hole in another object. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1715EXO2617xf6sfigs-idiomאִשָּׁ֖ה אֶל־אֲחֹתָ֑⁠הּ1ten cubits…one and a half cubits

This is an idiom meaning “to each other.” See how you translated this in 26:5. Alternate translation: “one to the other” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1716EXO2619c9idאַדְנֵי־כֶ֔סֶף1silver bases

The bases of silver were silver blocks that had a slot in them to keep the board in place and off the ground.

1717EXO2619o357figs-explicitשְׁנֵ֨י אֲדָנִ֜ים תַּֽחַת־הַ⁠קֶּ֤רֶשׁ הָ⁠אֶחָד֙ לִ⁠שְׁתֵּ֣י יְדֹתָ֔י⁠ו וּ⁠שְׁנֵ֧י אֲדָנִ֛ים תַּֽחַת־הַ⁠קֶּ֥רֶשׁ הָ⁠אֶחָ֖ד לִ⁠שְׁתֵּ֥י יְדֹתָֽי⁠ו1silver bases

The effect of this is to start a list, and the hearer will assume it should be completed. Try to translate this in the way that a speaker of your language would give instructions that are meant to be carried out on a whole group of objects. This same phrasing occurs again in verse 21 and verse 25. Alternate translation: “two bases under the first frame for its two tenons, and then two bases under the next frame for its two tenons, and so on for all the frames” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1718EXO2621rlcffigs-explicitשְׁנֵ֣י אֲדָנִ֗ים תַּ֚חַת הַ⁠קֶּ֣רֶשׁ הָֽ⁠אֶחָ֔ד וּ⁠שְׁנֵ֣י אֲדָנִ֔ים תַּ֖חַת הַ⁠קֶּ֥רֶשׁ הָ⁠אֶחָֽד1silver bases

The effect of this is to start a list, and the hearer will assume it should be completed. Try to translate this in the way that a speaker of your language would give instructions that are meant to be carried out on a whole group of objects. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:19. Alternate translation: “two bases under the first frame, and then two bases under the next frame, and so on for all the frames” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1719EXO2625cbplfigs-explicitשְׁנֵ֣י אֲדָנִ֗ים תַּ֚חַת הַ⁠קֶּ֣רֶשׁ הָ⁠אֶחָ֔ד וּ⁠שְׁנֵ֣י אֲדָנִ֔ים תַּ֖חַת הַ⁠קֶּ֥רֶשׁ הָ⁠אֶחָֽד1silver bases

The effect of this is to start a list, and the hearer will assume it should be completed. Try to translate this in the way that a speaker of your language would give instructions that are meant to be carried out on a whole group of objects. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:19. Alternate translation: “two bases under the first frame, and then two bases under the next frame, and so on for all the frames” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1720EXO2625p2wutranslate-unknownוְ⁠אַדְנֵי⁠הֶ֣ם…אֲדָנִ֑ים…אֲדָנִ֗ים…אֲדָנִ֔ים1silver bases

The bases were silver blocks that had a slot in them to keep the frame in place. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:19. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1721EXO2626fc8ptranslate-unknownבְרִיחִ֖ם1crossbars

The crossbars are horizontal support beams that give stability to the structure. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1722EXO2629ji1jבָּתִּ֖ים לַ⁠בְּרִיחִ֑ם1for them to serve as holders for the crossbars

Alternate translation: “which will hold the crossbars” or “because they will hold the crossbars”

1723EXO2629nq3mלַ⁠בְּרִיחִ֑ם1crossbars

The crossbars are horizontal support beams that give stability to the structure. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:26.

1724EXO2630csf9figs-activepassiveהָרְאֵ֖יתָ בָּ⁠הָֽר1you were shown on the mountain

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1725EXO2631yqi60General Information:

See how you translated very similar text in Exodus 26:1.

1726EXO2633p2yqtranslate-unknownהַ⁠קְּרָסִים֒1clasps

The clasps fit into the loops to hold the curtains together. See how you translated these in Exodus 26:6. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1727EXO2633x28lfigs-possessionקֹ֥דֶשׁ הַ⁠קֳּדָשִֽׁים1clasps

Here, Holy of Holies means extremely or uniquely holy. If this form would not express that this place would become uniquely holy in your language you may need to find another way to express this idea. Alternate translation: “the Most Holy Place” or “the Extraordinarily Holy Place” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

1728EXO2634u3tufigs-possessionבְּ⁠קֹ֖דֶשׁ הַ⁠קֳּדָשִֽׁים1clasps

Here, Holy of Holies means extremely holy, as in, the holiest of the holy places. If this form would not express that this place would become uniquely holy in your language you may need to find another way to express this idea. See how you translated it in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “in the Most Holy Place” or “in the Extraordinarily Holy Place” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

1729EXO2635lv9eהַ⁠שֻּׁלְחָן֙…הַ⁠מְּנֹרָה֙1The table must be on the north side

This is the table Yahweh told Moses how to make in 25:23-30 and the lampstand he told him how to make in 25:31-39.

1730EXO2636tiz70The table must be on the north side

See how you translated very similar text in Exodus 26:1.

1731EXO2636rr16תְּכֵ֧לֶת וְ⁠אַרְגָּמָ֛ן וְ⁠תוֹלַ֥עַת שָׁנִ֖י1blue, purple, and scarlet material

This could mean: (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.

1732EXO2636f6tdtranslate-unknownוְ⁠שֵׁ֣שׁ מָשְׁזָ֑ר1fine twined linen

This was cloth made from fine linen threads that someone twisted together to make a stronger thread. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1733EXO2636r2fytranslate-unknownרֹקֵֽם1an embroiderer

Alternate translation: “a person who sews decorative designs into cloth” or “a person who embroiders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1734EXO2637av600an embroiderer

See how you translated very similar instructions in verse 32.

1735EXO27introx4f70

Exodus 27 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

This chapter is a continuation of the material in the previous chapter.

  • v. 1-8: Instructions for constructing the altar
  • v. 9-19: Instructions for constructing the outer curtain walls forming the courtyard around the sacred tent
  • v. 20-21: Instructions for the lampstand

Special Concepts in this Chapter

The tent of meeting

This chapter gives specific instructions regarding building the courtyard area around the Dwelling containing the altar where priests made sacrifices to Yahweh.

Potential Translation Issues

  • The verb make at the beginning of verse 9 is the only verb from verses 9-18. Some languages may be able to translate a clause chain this long without additional verbs. Others (including English), will need to supply at least a minimum number of verbs (ULT) or quite a few verbs (UST) for naturalness.
  • There continue to be a number of possibly unknown terms, still all tangible objects.
1736EXO271s8qytranslate-bdistanceחָמֵשׁ֩ אַמּ֨וֹת…וְ⁠חָמֵ֧שׁ אַמּ֣וֹת…וְ⁠שָׁלֹ֥שׁ אַמּ֖וֹת1cubits

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. A cubit is approximately 46 centimeters. For your reference, a more precise conversion to metric is: 2.3 meters … 2.3 meters … 138 centimeters (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1737EXO274hsq3מִכְבָּ֔ר1grate

The grate is a frame of crossed metal bars for holding wood when burning.

1738EXO274vlauוְ⁠עָשִׂ֣יתָ עַל־הָ⁠רֶ֗שֶׁת אַרְבַּע֙ טַבְּעֹ֣ת נְחֹ֔שֶׁת עַ֖ל אַרְבַּ֥ע קְצוֹתָֽי⁠ו1grate

You may want to refer back to several other passages regarding making rings for carrying poles when translating this verse. See Exo 25:12, Exo 25:26, and Exo 25:27.

1739EXO275c5emfigs-explicitוְ⁠נָתַתָּ֣ה אֹתָ֗⁠הּ תַּ֛חַת כַּרְכֹּ֥ב הַ⁠מִּזְבֵּ֖חַ מִ⁠לְּ⁠מָ֑טָּה וְ⁠הָיְתָ֣ה הָ⁠רֶ֔שֶׁת עַ֖ד חֲצִ֥י הַ⁠מִּזְבֵּֽחַ1You must put the grate under the ledge of the altar

The grate was placed inside the altar. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1740EXO277b3yxfigs-activepassiveוְ⁠הוּבָ֥א אֶת־בַּדָּ֖י⁠ו1The poles must be put into the rings, and the poles must be on the two sides of the altar, to carry it

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “And you shall put its poles” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1741EXO278ecmhfigs-123personהֶרְאָ֥ה1The poles must be put into the rings, and the poles must be on the two sides of the altar, to carry it

Here, he refers to Yahweh in the third person. If it would be unnatural in your language for someone to refer to himself in this way, you may need to change it. Alternate translation: “I showed” or “Yahweh showed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

1742EXO278frcsfigs-123personיַעֲשֽׂוּ1The poles must be put into the rings, and the poles must be on the two sides of the altar, to carry it

Here, they refers to whoever will make all these items. It is an indication that even though Yahweh has been speaking to Moses in the singular throughout, these instructions are meant to be conveyed to Israelite craftsmen. See 25:intro for more. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

1743EXO279v748translate-unknownשֵׁ֣שׁ מָשְׁזָ֗ר1fine twined 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 25:4. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1744EXO279ce9atranslate-bdistanceמֵאָ֤ה בָֽ⁠אַמָּה֙1one hundred cubits

You can convert this length to a measurement system familiar to your people if that is the style of translation that you are using. A cubit is approximately 46 centimeters. For your reference, a more precise conversion to metric is: 46 meters (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1745EXO2710qq8fוְ⁠עַמֻּדָ֣י⁠ו עֶשְׂרִ֔ים וְ⁠אַדְנֵי⁠הֶ֥ם עֶשְׂרִ֖ים נְחֹ֑שֶׁת1one hundred cubits

Here, bronze may refer to both the pillars and the bases, or just to the bases. The pillars inside the tent were of wood overlaid with gold; these may be wood overlaid with bronze.

1746EXO2711gjg50there must be hangings one hundred cubits long

See how you translated many similar words in Exodus 27:9-10.

1747EXO2711ynaofigs-ellipsisמֵ֣אָה1there must be hangings one hundred cubits long

Here, “cubits” is omitted because it is understood as a repetition of the instructions in verse 9. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “100 cubits” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1748EXO2711xev2translate-bdistanceמֵ֣אָה1there must be hangings one hundred cubits long

You can convert this length to a measurement system familiar to your people if that is the style of translation that you are using. A cubit is approximately 46 centimeters. For your reference, a more precise conversion to metric is: 46 meters (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1749EXO2712p4u4translate-bdistanceחֲמִשִּׁ֣ים אַמָּ֑ה1there must be a curtain

You can convert this length to a measurement system familiar to your people if that is the style of translation that you are using. A cubit is approximately 46 centimeters. For your reference, a more precise conversion to metric is: 23 meters (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1750EXO2713w2sgtranslate-bdistanceחֲמִשִּׁ֥ים אַמָּֽה1The courtyard must also be fifty cubits long

You can convert this length to a measurement system familiar to your people if that is the style of translation that you are using. A cubit is approximately 46 centimeters. For your reference, a more precise conversion to metric is: 23 meters (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1751EXO2714u8nmtranslate-bdistanceוַ⁠חֲמֵ֨שׁ עֶשְׂרֵ֥ה1fifteen cubits

You can convert this length to a measurement system familiar to your people if that is the style of translation that you are using. A cubit is approximately 46 centimeters. For your reference, a more precise conversion to metric is: 6.9 meters (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1752EXO2714z8n2עַמֻּדֵי⁠הֶ֣ם1posts

The pillars were strong pieces of wood set upright and used as supports. See how you translated these in Exodus 27:10.

1753EXO2714gz7sוְ⁠אַדְנֵי⁠הֶ֖ם1bases

The bases were metal blocks that had a slot in them to keep the board in place. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:19.

1754EXO2715s2cctranslate-bdistanceחְמֵ֥שׁ עֶשְׂרֵ֖ה1fifteen cubits

You can convert this length to a measurement system familiar to your people if that is the style of translation that you are using. A cubit is approximately 46 centimeters. For your reference, a more precise conversion to metric is: 6.9 meters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1755EXO2715hlzpעַמֻּדֵי⁠הֶ֣ם1posts

These posts were strong pieces of wood set upright and used as supports. See how you translated these in Exodus 27:10.

1756EXO2715o49hוְ⁠אַדְנֵי⁠הֶ֖ם1bases

The bases were metal blocks that had a slot in them to keep the board in place. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:19.

1757EXO2716kn9u0blue, purple, and scarlet material and fine twined linen

See how you translated a nearly identical passage in 26:36.

1758EXO2716g5witranslate-bdistanceעֶשְׂרִ֣ים אַמָּ֗ה1an embroiderer

You can convert this length to a measurement system familiar to your people if that is the style of translation that you are using. A cubit is approximately 46 centimeters. For your reference, a more precise conversion to metric is: 9.2m (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1759EXO2717wtngfigs-activepassiveמְחֻשָּׁקִ֣ים1an embroiderer

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Among other options not so relevant here, Wiktionary suggests that a fillet could be a “thin strip of any material, in various technical uses,” “thin featureless molding used as separation between broader decorative moldings,” or a rounded corner. Alternate translation: “you shall fillet” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1760EXO2718wt7ntranslate-bdistanceמֵאָ֨ה בָֽ⁠אַמָּ֜ה…חֲמִשִּׁ֣ים בַּ⁠חֲמִשִּׁ֗ים…חָמֵ֥שׁ אַמּ֖וֹת1one hundred cubits

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. A cubit is approximately 46 centimeters. For your reference, a more precise conversion to metric is: 46 meters … 23 meters … 2.3 meters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1761EXO2718mu6bfigs-ellipsisחֲמִשִּׁ֣ים בַּ⁠חֲמִשִּׁ֗ים1one hundred cubits

Here, “cubits” is omitted because it is understood as a repetition of the instructions in verse 9. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “50 cubits” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1762EXO2719bs7ctranslate-unknownיְתֵדֹתָ֛י⁠ו…יִתְדֹ֥ת1tent pegs

The tent pegs are strong, sharp pieces of metal driven into the ground and used to secure the corners of a tent to the ground or to secure ropes in order to create tension to stabilize something standing upright. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1763EXO2721p7rufigs-synecdocheהָ⁠עֵדֻ֗ת1ark of testimony

The testimony refers to the chest that contains the sacred slabs of stone on which Yahweh had written his commandments. If it would be more clear to your readers you may include a reference to the chest. Alternate translation: “is the Box of the Testimony” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1764EXO2721nlwzיַעֲרֹךְ֩ אֹת֨⁠וֹ1ark of testimony

Here, it refers to the lamp mentioned in the previous verse and arrange means to set it up for burning, and light it. Alternate translation: “shall set up the lampstand and light it”

1765EXO2721j41sfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה1ark of testimony

Here, face figuratively represents the presence of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “in front of me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1766EXO2721vr7mחֻקַּ֤ת עוֹלָם֙ לְ⁠דֹ֣רֹתָ֔⁠ם מֵ⁠אֵ֖ת בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל1This requirement will be a lasting statute

See how you translated a similar statement in 12:14

1767EXO28intror3yx0

Exodus 28 General Notes

Structure

  • v. 1: Introduction - Aaron and sons will become priests
  • v. 2-5: General introduction of sacred clothing
  • v. 6-14: Instructions for the ephod
    • v. 9-14: Instructions regarding stones on ephod
  • v. 15-28: Instructions for the breastpiece
    • v. 17-21: Instructions regarding stones on breastpiece
    • v. 22-28: Instructions for mounting the breastpiece on the ephod
  • v. 29-30: Aaron should wear things over his heart
  • v 31-35: Instructions for making the robe with bells and pomegranates
  • v. 36-38: Instructions regarding the turban
  • v. 39-41: Closing general instructions regarding clothing
  • v. 42-43: Instructions on making and wearing undergarments
  • v. 43b: Closing statement

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Holy garments

Because Yahweh is holy, only the priests could approach him, and when they did they had to be wearing specially made clothing. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/priest]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])

Potential Translation Issues

  • Verses 17-20 list 12 kinds of stone. Scholars are not sure which kinds of stones the Hebrew words refer to. Some translations list different stones. The UST gives the probable color of the gemstones. Translators may use names of familiar gem stones.
1768EXO281e1xbfigs-yousingularוְ⁠אַתָּ֡ה1Call to yourself

Here, you refers to Moses; in this case, it is used to highlight that he is the person who must do the next thing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])

1769EXO281w9lstranslate-kinshipאַהֲרֹ֨ן אָחִ֜י⁠ךָ1Call to yourself

Aaron is older than Moses. If your language uses a different term for the sibling relationship based on gender and age order, choose the appropriate one. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship]])

1770EXO281ofgrtranslate-namesנָדָ֧ב וַ⁠אֲבִיה֛וּא אֶלְעָזָ֥ר וְ⁠אִיתָמָ֖ר1Call to yourself

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

1771EXO282zxy0figs-abstractnounsבִגְדֵי־קֹ֖דֶשׁ1Call to yourself

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of holiness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “holy clothes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1772EXO283n17yfigs-yousingularוְ⁠אַתָּ֗ה1Call to yourself

Here, you refers to Moses; in this case, it is used to highlight that he is the person who must do the next thing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])

1773EXO283c9pvfigs-parallelismאֶל־כָּל־חַכְמֵי־לֵ֔ב אֲשֶׁ֥ר מִלֵּאתִ֖י⁠ו ר֣וּחַ חָכְמָ֑ה1Call to yourself

There is a little bit of parallelism here. Yahweh is clarifying who causes someone to be wise of heart. You could translate this in a more causative way if that would make more sense. Alternate translation: “to anyone whom I have filled with the spirit of wisdom, making them wise of heart” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

1774EXO283wt7mfigs-metonymyאֶל־כָּל־חַכְמֵי־לֵ֔ב אֲשֶׁ֥ר מִלֵּאתִ֖י⁠ו ר֣וּחַ חָכְמָ֑ה1Call to yourself

Here, heart and spirit are both referring to things innately possessed by a person that is, traits of a person. Wisdom refers to skill or talent with crafting in this case. Together wise of heart and filled with the spirit of wisdom both essentially mean “a talented craftsman.” If it would be more clear to your readers, you may consider making some of this more explicit. Alternate translation: “to every talented craftsman, those whom I have made skilled in their work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1775EXO284tr5eוּ⁠כְתֹ֥נֶת תַּשְׁבֵּ֖ץ1a coat of woven work

We do not know what word translated of woven work means, as it only occurs here and in verse 39 as a verb. Alternate translation: “and a checkered tunic” or “an embroidered garment”

1776EXO284dz5htranslate-unknownמִצְנֶ֣פֶת1turban

This is a head covering made from cloth wrapped around the head several times. You may translate it using a word commonly used for a similar item in your culture. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1777EXO284k184translate-unknownוְ⁠אַבְנֵ֑ט1sash

The sash is a piece of cloth that people wear around their waist or across their chest. You may translate it with a word commonly used for a similar item in your culture. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1778EXO284jqtgfigs-abstractnounsבִגְדֵי־קֹ֜דֶשׁ1sash

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of holiness, you could express the same idea in another way. See how you translated this in 28:2. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1779EXO285rxketranslate-unknownוְ⁠אֶת־הַ⁠תְּכֵ֖לֶת וְ⁠אֶת־הָֽ⁠אַרְגָּמָ֑ן וְ⁠אֶת־תּוֹלַ֥עַת הַ⁠שָּׁנִ֖י1sash

This could mean: (1) “material that is dyed blue, purple, and scarlet,” probably wool yarn, or (2) “blue, purple and scarlet dye” to dye the linen. The original audience would have known what was meant. This material seems to have been used for embroidery later, so “yarn” or ”thread” may be the best understanding. See how you translated this in 25:4 (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1780EXO285pfq5translate-unknownתּוֹלַ֥עַת הַ⁠שָּׁנִ֖י1sash

A bright red color for dying cloth was extracted from these worms. Alternate translation: “and bright red” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1781EXO286u3rxtranslate-unknownוְ⁠שֵׁ֥שׁ מָשְׁזָ֖ר1fine-twined 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. Alternate translation: “fine twined linen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1782EXO286k3bjחֹשֵֽׁב1skillful craftsman

The description skillful craftsman refers to a person who can make beautiful objects by hand.

1783EXO287dpphשְׁתֵּ֧י כְתֵפֹ֣ת חֹֽבְרֹ֗ת יִֽהְיֶה־לּ֛⁠וֹ אֶל־שְׁנֵ֥י קְצוֹתָ֖י⁠ו וְ⁠חֻבָּֽר1skillful craftsman

This likely meant creating some sort of fastening up by the shoulders to attach the front of the ephod to its back. Alternate translation: “They shall make it so that the front and back attach to each other at the shoulders”

1784EXO287wt20figs-activepassiveוְ⁠חֻבָּֽר1skillful craftsman

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “join it together that way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1785EXO288u5avאֲשֶׁ֣ר עָלָ֔י⁠ו כְּ⁠מַעֲשֵׂ֖⁠הוּ מִמֶּ֣⁠נּוּ1it must be made of one piece

This is saying that the sash should be attached to the ephod, perhaps cut from the same material used to make the rest of the ephod.

1786EXO289c4iatranslate-unknownאַבְנֵי־שֹׁ֑הַם1onyx stones

These stones of onyx 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]])

1787EXO289s2ydtranslate-numbersשְׁתֵּ֖י1onyx stones

Alternate translation: “2” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1788EXO2810h5mrtranslate-numbersשִׁשָּׁה֙…הַ⁠שִּׁשָּׁ֧ה1onyx stones

Alternate translation: “6 of … the 6” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1789EXO2810zlteכְּ⁠תוֹלְדֹתָֽ⁠ם1onyx stones

Alternate translation: “according to their birth order”

1790EXO2811dv8kפִּתּוּחֵ֣י חֹתָ֗ם1With the work of an engraver in stone, like the engraving on a signet

Alternate translation: “in the same way a person engraves on a seal”

1791EXO2811x1xctranslate-unknownחָרַשׁ֮ אֶבֶן֒1engraver

A craftsman of stone is a person who cuts designs into stones. Alternate translation: “a detailed stone cutter” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1792EXO2811cm3ftranslate-unknownחֹתָ֗ם1signet

This is an engraved stone often set into a ring and used to stamp a design into a wax seal to authenticate an official document. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1793EXO2811gh2rtranslate-unknownמִשְׁבְּצ֥וֹת1settings

These are pieces of metal that hold the stones onto the ephod. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1794EXO2812ypfdזִכָּרֹ֖ן…לְ⁠זִכָּרֹֽן1settings

The text does not specify if Yahweh or Aaron or someone else is the one being reminded by the stones. It also does not specify exactly what the reminder is of. Try to maintain this ambiguity if possible in your translation.

1795EXO2812shn5figs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֧י1settings

Here, face figuratively represents the presence of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “in the presence of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1796EXO2813pi4xtranslate-unknownמִשְׁבְּצֹ֖ת1settings

The ornamental settings are pieces of precious metal that surround the sides of hold each stone to hold it onto the ephod. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:11. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1797EXO2814e746וּ⁠שְׁתֵּ֤י שַׁרְשְׁרֹת֙ זָהָ֣ב טָה֔וֹר מִגְבָּלֹ֛ת תַּעֲשֶׂ֥ה אֹתָ֖⁠ם מַעֲשֵׂ֣ה עֲבֹ֑ת1two braided chains of pure gold like cords

Alternate translation: “and you shall make two chains of pure gold that are braided like cords”

1798EXO2815sf8eמַעֲשֵׂ֣ה חֹשֵׁ֔ב כְּ⁠מַעֲשֵׂ֥ה אֵפֹ֖ד תַּעֲשֶׂ֑⁠נּוּ1the work of a skillful workman, fashioned like the ephod

Alternate translation: “a skillful workman will make it like the ephod”

1799EXO2816cny4translate-bdistanceזֶ֥רֶת…וְ⁠זֶ֥רֶת1span

You can convert this length to a measurement system familiar to your people if that is the style of translation that you are using. A span is approximately 23 centimeters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1800EXO2816onj6רָב֥וּעַ יִֽהְיֶ֖ה כָּפ֑וּל1span

Alternate translation: “Fold it in half so it will be square”

1801EXO2817spd4translate-unknown0General Information:

Twelve kinds of stones are listed in the next four verses. Scholars are not sure which kinds of stones the Hebrew words refer to. Some translations list different stones. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1802EXO2817n1ystranslate-unknownאֹ֤דֶם פִּטְדָה֙ וּ⁠בָרֶ֔קֶת1ruby…topaz…garnet

These are precious stones. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1803EXO2818qq9gtranslate-ordinalוְ⁠הַ⁠טּ֖וּר הַ⁠שֵּׁנִ֑י1emerald…diamond

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “And row 2:” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1804EXO2818ga1vtranslate-unknownנֹ֥פֶךְ סַפִּ֖יר וְ⁠יָהֲלֹֽם1emerald…diamond

These are precious stones. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1805EXO2818a5rrtranslate-unknownסַפִּ֖יר1sapphire

This is a gemstone that is blue in color. See how you translated this in Exodus 24:10. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1806EXO2819uw42translate-ordinalוְ⁠הַ⁠טּ֖וּר הַ⁠שְּׁלִישִׁ֑י1sapphire

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “And row 3:” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1807EXO2819z17rtranslate-unknownלֶ֥שֶׁם שְׁב֖וֹ וְ⁠אַחְלָֽמָה1jacinth…agate…amethyst

These are precious stones (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1808EXO2820ekaftranslate-ordinalוְ⁠הַ⁠טּוּר֙ הָ⁠רְבִיעִ֔י1jacinth…agate…amethyst

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “And row 4:” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

1809EXO2820ul2etranslate-unknownתַּרְשִׁ֥ישׁ וְ⁠שֹׁ֖הַם וְ⁠יָשְׁפֵ֑ה1beryl…jasper

These are precious stones. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1810EXO2820rgf6translate-unknownוְ⁠שֹׁ֖הַם1onyx

An onyx 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]])

1811EXO2820pw5hfigs-activepassiveמְשֻׁבָּצִ֥ים זָהָ֛ב יִהְי֖וּ1They must be mounted in gold settings

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “You shall set them in gold” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1812EXO2821z8mwtranslate-unknownפִּתּוּחֵ֤י חוֹתָם֙1signet ring

This is an engraved stone often set into a ring and used to stamp a design into a wax seal to authenticate an official document. Here the stone is mounted on a ring. See how you translated “signet” in Exodus 28:11. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1813EXO2822m7yltranslate-unknownשַֽׁרְשֹׁ֥ת גַּבְלֻ֖ת מַעֲשֵׂ֣ה עֲבֹ֑ת זָהָ֖ב טָהֽוֹר1chains like cords, braided work of pure gold

See how you translated similar phrases in Exodus 28:14. Alternate translation (should replace twisted chains): “chains that are made of pure gold and are braided like cords” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1814EXO2825d8y3figs-metonymyאֶל־מ֥וּל פָּנָֽי⁠ו1braided chains

Here, face simply refers to the object (the ephod). Alternate translation: “on its front side” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1815EXO2825a4lcfigs-explicitעַל־שְׁתֵּ֣י הַֽ⁠מִּשְׁבְּצ֑וֹת1to the two settings

These are two settings that enclose the stones. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1816EXO2827f2nnfigs-metonymyפָּנָ֔י⁠ו1braided chains

Here, face simply refers to the object (the ephod). Alternate translation: “on its front side” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1817EXO2827vw1wtranslate-unknownלְ⁠חֵ֖שֶׁב1finely-woven waistband

The waistband 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. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1818EXO2828se56figs-activepassiveוְ⁠לֹֽא־יִזַּ֣ח הַ⁠חֹ֔שֶׁן מֵ⁠עַ֖ל1so that it might be attached

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that the breastpiece shall stay attached to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1819EXO2828wf9vfigs-doublenegativesוְ⁠לֹֽא־יִזַּ֣ח הַ⁠חֹ֔שֶׁן מֵ⁠עַ֖ל1the breastpiece might not become unattached from the ephod

If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “so that the breastpiece shall stay attached to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1820EXO2829z1mzשְׁמ֨וֹת בְּנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֜ל1he 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.

1821EXO2829cc97עַל־לִבּ֖⁠וֹ1over his heart

Alternate translation: “over Aarons heart” or “on his chest”

1822EXO2830dgn9translate-transliterateהָ⁠אוּרִים֙ וְ⁠אֶת־הַ⁠תֻּמִּ֔ים1the Urim and the Thummim

It is not clear what the Urim and the Thummim are. They were objects, possibly stones, that the priest used to somehow determine the will of God. Because of this, it is basically impossible to translate. In your translation, you can spell it the way it sounds in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate]])

1823EXO2830f537translate-unknownוְ⁠נָשָׂ֣א אַ֠הֲרֹן אֶת־מִשְׁפַּ֨ט בְּנֵי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֧ל עַל־לִבּ֛⁠וֹ לִ⁠פְנֵ֥י יְהוָ֖ה תָּמִֽיד1the Urim and the Thummim…the means for making decisions

This phrase appears to refer to the Urim and Thummim and explain their purpose. Alternate translation: “And Aaron shall bear the decisions for the sons of Israel over his heart before Yahweh continually” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1824EXO2830fep5figs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה…לִ⁠פְנֵ֥י יְהוָ֖ה1the Urim and the Thummim…the means for making decisions

Here, face figuratively represents the presence of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “before Yahweh … before Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1825EXO2832x42nמַעֲשֵׂ֣ה אֹרֵ֗ג1This must be the work of a weaver

Alternate translation: “made by a weaver”

1826EXO2832rw96translate-unknownאֹרֵ֗ג1a weaver

Alternate translation: “a person who weaves” or “a person who creates cloth using thread, yarns and wool” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1827EXO2832t60ltranslate-unknownתַחְרָ֛א1a weaver

We do not know what this term means, but the implication seems to be that the collar should be made strong. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1828EXO2832ubhgfigs-activepassiveלֹ֥א יִקָּרֵֽעַ1a weaver

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language, as modeled in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1829EXO2833qm1ftranslate-unknownתְּכֵ֤לֶת וְ⁠אַרְגָּמָן֙ וְ⁠תוֹלַ֣עַת שָׁנִ֔י1pomegranates

This could mean: (1) “material that is dyed blue, purple, and scarlet,” probably wool yarn, or (2) “blue, purple and scarlet dye” to dye the linen. The original audience would have known what was meant. This material seems to have been used for embroidery later, so “yarn” or ”thread” may be the best understanding. See how you translated this in 25:4 (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1830EXO2834kl55פַּעֲמֹ֤ן זָהָב֙ וְ⁠רִמּ֔וֹן פַּֽעֲמֹ֥ן זָהָ֖ב וְ⁠רִמּ֑וֹן1a golden bell and a pomegranate

This phrase is repeated to show the pattern of the design on the robe. Alternate translation: “alternate pomegranates and golden bells”

1831EXO2835pf61figs-activepassiveוְ⁠נִשְׁמַ֣ע ק֠וֹל⁠וֹ1so that its sound can be heard

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that the bells make a sound” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1832EXO2835fmqufigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֧י יְהוָ֛ה1so that its sound can be heard

Here, face figuratively represents the presence of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “before Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1833EXO2835ky8sfigs-123personיְהוָ֛ה1so that its sound can be heard

Here, Yahweh refers to himself in the third person. If this is confusing in your language, you may use the first person. Alternate translation: “me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

1834EXO2835qtf9figs-explicitוְ⁠לֹ֥א יָמֽוּת1This is so that he does not die

The probable implication is that he would die because he did not obey Yahweh. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “As a result, he will not die because of disobeying my instructions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1835EXO2836mzejtranslate-unknownצִּ֖יץ1engrave on it, like the engraving on a signet

We do not know exactly what this was. It was probably a thin piece of gold smaller than the palm of someones hand. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1836EXO2836nd2qtranslate-unknownוּ⁠פִתַּחְתָּ֤ עָלָי⁠ו֙ פִּתּוּחֵ֣י חֹתָ֔ם1engrave on it, like the engraving on a signet

See how you translated similar words in Exodus 28:11 Alternate translation: “write on it in the same way a person engraves on a seal.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1837EXO2837qka6translate-unknownהַ⁠מִּצְנָ֑פֶת…הַ⁠מִּצְנֶ֖פֶת1turban

This was a head covering made from cloth wrapped around the head several times. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:4. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1838EXO2837lxq8figs-metonymyאֶל־מ֥וּל פְּנֵֽי־הַ⁠מִּצְנֶ֖פֶת1turban

Here, face means the front. Alternate translation: “to the front of the turban” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1839EXO2838frqmfigs-metaphorוְ⁠נָשָׂ֨א אַהֲרֹ֜ן אֶת־עֲוֺ֣ן הַ⁠קֳּדָשִׁ֗ים1turban

Here, iniquity is pictured as something that can be carried or worn like the turban. It also seems to picture handing off the iniquity from the people to Aaron. Also here, iniquity actually seems to refer to the punishment for anything that might be wrong regarding the things the Israelites offer Yahweh. You may need to use a different word than bear to convey the transfer of responsibility for wrongs from the people to Aaron. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “and Aaron shall be responsible for any wrong related to the holy things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1840EXO2838chuzfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֥י יְהוָֽה1turban

Here, face figuratively represents the presence of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “before Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1841EXO2838jbt4figs-123personיְהוָֽה1turban

Here, Yahweh refers to himself in the third person. If this is confusing in your language, you may use the first person. Alternate translation: “me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

1842EXO2839t5vjtranslate-unknownמִצְנֶ֣פֶת1turban

This was a head covering made from cloth wrapped around the head several times. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:4. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1843EXO2839yi1ltranslate-unknownוְ⁠אַבְנֵ֥ט1sash

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. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1844EXO2839i62ztranslate-unknownרֹקֵֽם1the work of an embroiderer

An embroiderer is a person who sews decorative designs onto cloth. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:36. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1845EXO2840pfs2translate-unknownאַבְנֵטִ֑ים1sashes

The sashes are decorative pieces of cloth that people wear around the waist or across the chest. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:4. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1846EXO2840v2tjtranslate-unknownוּ⁠מִגְבָּעוֹת֙1headbands

A headband is a decorative, narrow strip of cloth that is worn around the head above the eyes. This seems to be similar to, but perhaps smaller than the turban worn by the high priest. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1847EXO2841xa75translate-kinshipאַהֲרֹ֣ן אָחִ֔י⁠ךָ1You must clothe Aaron your brother

Aaron is older than Moses. If your language uses a different term for the sibling relationship based on gender and age order, choose the appropriate one. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship]])

1848EXO2841ageyfigs-idiomוּ⁠מִלֵּאתָ֧ אֶת־יָדָ֛⁠ם1You must clothe Aaron your brother

This seems to be an idiom for giving authority to someone. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “and you shall ordain them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1849EXO2842vz62translate-unknownמִכְנְסֵי1undergarments

These are articles of clothing worn under the outer clothes, next to the skin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1850EXO2842m1bifigs-euphemismבְּשַׂ֣ר עֶרְוָ֑ה1undergarments

This refers to the male genitalia. This is a polite way of referring to something unpleasant. If this would be misunderstood in your language, use a different polite way of referring to this or you could state this plainly. Alternate translation: “their private parts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

1851EXO29introxmd90

Exodus 29 General Notes

Large translation teams working on multiple books at the same time should note that this chapter is very similar to Leviticus 8.

Structure

As you translate, you may perceive a different structure in this chapter than what is below. Feel free to organize in a way that is clear in your language. This chapter is really one united whole; the outline below is one possible way of subdividing it. The Consecration of the Priests

  • v. 1-3 Preparing items
  • v. 4-9 Preparing Aaron and his sons
  • v. 10-14 Sacrificing the bull to purify the altar
  • v. 15-34 Sacrificing the rams
    • v. 15-18 The first ram wholly burned
    • v. 19-28 The second ram used for consecrating and divided for eating
    • v. 29-30 Priestly succession
    • v. 31-34 More instructions regarding eating the second ram
  • v. 35-37 Instructions to do all this for seven days
  • v. 38-41 Instructions for perpetual offerings
  • v. 42-46 Yahwehs affirmation

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

Forms of you

For this chapter, it seems that the singular “you: that Yahweh has been using to give Moses general instructions for the last several chapters now actually refers to Moses himself. If you have been translating the instructions using a plural form of you or by shifting the instructions to the third person, you should switch back to a singular form referring directly to Moses for 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.

1852EXO291d6gkwriting-neweventוְ⁠זֶ֨ה1Now

A new scene begins here. There is a change in topic from instructions for making garments for priests to consecrating priests. This may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

1853EXO291z78hwriting-pronounsתַּעֲשֶׂ֥ה1you must do

Here, you refers to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

1854EXO291ld5swriting-pronounsלָ⁠הֶ֛ם1to set them apart

Here, they refers to Aaron and his sons. Alternate translation: “to Aaron and his sons” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

1855EXO291dq2cwriting-pronounsלִ֑⁠י1serve me

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

1856EXO291jhj3figs-idiomבֶּן־בָּקָ֛ר1serve me

This is an idiom meaning young. If you do not have a similar idiom you may translate the meaning. Alternate translation: “a young one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1857EXO292ptm7figs-activepassiveבְּלוּלֹ֣ת בַּ⁠שֶּׁ֔מֶן…מְשֻׁחִ֣ים בַּ⁠שָּׁ֑מֶן1Also take wafers without yeast rubbed with oil

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. You may need to shorten the sentences and make the alternate translation content separate sentences or mark it off with special punctuation. Alternate translation: “(mix them with oil) … (rub them with oil)” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1858EXO292wkybוּ⁠רְקִיקֵ֥י מַצּ֖וֹת מְשֻׁחִ֣ים בַּ⁠שָּׁ֑מֶן1Also take wafers without yeast rubbed with oil

These may have been rubbed with oil before or after baking.

1859EXO292r449translate-unknownוְ⁠חַלֹּ֤ת…וּ⁠רְקִיקֵ֥י1bread…cakes…wafers

These are different kinds of food made from flour. While all the breads were somewhat flat because they were unleavened, the cakes were a bread enriched with oil, and the wafers were especially thin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1860EXO293gm58writing-pronounsאוֹתָ⁠ם֙1You must put them

Alternate translation: “the bread, cakes, and wafers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

1861EXO293cd6mוְ⁠הִקְרַבְתָּ֥ אֹתָ֖⁠ם בַּ⁠סָּ֑ל וְ⁠אֶ֨ת־הַ⁠פָּ֔ר וְ⁠אֵ֖ת שְׁנֵ֥י הָ⁠אֵילִֽם1present them with the bull and the two rams

Here, in the basket is almost parenthetical. You may need to restructure the sentence or use punctuation to make it clear that the bull and the two rams are connected to bring, and not to in the basket. Alternate translation: “and you shall bring them near (in the basket) along with the bull and the two rams”

1862EXO294a6rzאֹ֣הֶל מוֹעֵ֑ד1tent of meeting

The tent of meeting is another name for the Dwelling. See how you translated this in Exodus 27:21.

1863EXO295pr4itranslate-unknownבְּ⁠חֵ֖שֶׁב1finely-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. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1864EXO296ap2xtranslate-unknownהַ⁠מִּצְנֶ֖פֶת…הַ⁠מִּצְנָֽפֶת1turban

This was a head covering made from cloth wrapped around the head several times. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:4. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1865EXO296y59stranslate-unknownנֵ֥זֶר הַ⁠קֹּ֖דֶשׁ1holy crown

This crown is described in Exodus 28:36 as being engraved with the words “Holy to Yahweh” and made of pure gold. There it is referred to by a different Hebrew word, which is translated as “rosette.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1866EXO296n4btfigs-abstractnounsאֶת־נֵ֥זֶר הַ⁠קֹּ֖דֶשׁ1holy crown

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of holiness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the holy crown” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1867EXO297rwujtranslate-unknownשֶׁ֣מֶן הַ⁠מִּשְׁחָ֔ה1holy crown

See how you translated oil of anointing in 25:6. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1868EXO298v46kwriting-pronounsבָּנָ֖י⁠ו1bring his sons

Alternate translation: “Aarons sons” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

1869EXO299j3a8translate-unknownאַבְנֵ֜ט1sashes

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. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1870EXO299bh2dtranslate-unknownמִגְבָּעֹ֔ת1headbands

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. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1871EXO299r1x4translate-unknownכְּהֻנָּ֖ה1The work of the priesthood

Here, the priesthood means the official office of priest. Alternate translation: “the duty of being priests” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1872EXO299ze9lfigs-explicitוְ⁠הָיְתָ֥ה לָ⁠הֶ֛ם כְּהֻנָּ֖ה1will belong to them

The duty of being priests will also belong to the descendants of Aarons sons. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “And the priesthood will belong to them and their descendants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1873EXO299p7m9לְ⁠חֻקַּ֣ת עוֹלָ֑ם1permanent law

Alternate translation: “a law that will not end.” See how you translated this in Exodus 28:43.

1874EXO299zbzkfigs-idiomוּ⁠מִלֵּאתָ֥ יַֽד־אַהֲרֹ֖ן וְ⁠יַד־בָּנָֽי⁠ו1permanent law

The phrase, fill the hand, seems to be an idiom for giving authority to someone. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:41. Alternate translation: “And you shall ordain Aaron and his sons” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1875EXO299jhwbוּ⁠מִלֵּאתָ֥ יַֽד־אַהֲרֹ֖ן וְ⁠יַד־בָּנָֽי⁠ו1tent of meeting

The phrase, fill the hand may be (1) a summary and reminder statement of the whole ordination process, (2) referring to the previous description, meaning that the priests have been ordained, or (3) referring to the following description, meaning that the priests are about to be ordained. It would probably be best to translate this in the way a mid-text summary reminder phrase would be spoken in your language, avoiding any indication that it refers only to the previous or following text.

1876EXO2910wjko0tent of meeting

The purpose of the sacrifice explained here through verse 14 is to purify or cleanse the altar. This is made more clear in verses 36-37.

1877EXO2910sgurfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֖י אֹ֣הֶל מוֹעֵ֑ד1tent of meeting

Here, face refers to the front of the tent. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1878EXO2910rf0wgrammar-connect-time-simultaneousוְ⁠סָמַ֨ךְ אַהֲרֹ֧ן וּ⁠בָנָ֛י⁠ו אֶת־יְדֵי⁠הֶ֖ם עַל־רֹ֥אשׁ הַ⁠פָּֽר1tent of meeting

The slaughter of the bull in the next verse occurs while the priests continue to have their hands on the bulls head. Take care to arrange the phrases and to use words or forms that indicate that the two events happened at the same time. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])

1879EXO2912c2udtranslate-unknownקַרְנֹ֥ת1the 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. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1880EXO2912xdl5כָּל־הַ⁠דָּ֣ם1the rest of the blood

Alternate translation: “the remaining blood”

1881EXO2913x2c5וְ⁠הִקְטַרְתָּ֖1covers the inner parts

Alternate translation: “and burn them to make smoke”

1882EXO2913nsg6translate-unknownהַ⁠כָּבֵ֔ד…הַ⁠כְּלָיֹ֔ת1liver…kidneys

The liver and kidneys are organs in the body. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1883EXO2914eza8וְ⁠אֶת־בְּשַׂ֤ר הַ⁠פָּר֙ וְ⁠אֶת־עֹר֣⁠וֹ וְ⁠אֶת־פִּרְשׁ֔⁠וֹ תִּשְׂרֹ֣ף1But as for the bulls flesh, as well as its skin and dung

Alternate translation: “But as for the remaining parts of the bull, including the flesh and dung, you shall burn it”

1884EXO2914o262מִ⁠ח֖וּץ לַֽ⁠מַּחֲנֶ֑ה1But as for the bulls flesh, as well as its skin and dung

Alternate translation: “outside the borders of where the Israelites are camped”

1885EXO2915pd0tgrammar-connect-time-simultaneousוְ⁠סָ֨מְכ֜וּ אַהֲרֹ֧ן וּ⁠בָנָ֛י⁠ו אֶת־יְדֵי⁠הֶ֖ם עַל־רֹ֥אשׁ הָ⁠אָֽיִל1But as for the bulls flesh, as well as its skin and dung

The slaughter of the ram in the next verse occurs while they continue to have their hands on the rams head. Take care to arrange the phrases and to use words or forms that indicate that the two events happened at the same time. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])

1886EXO2917w2nbtranslate-unknownקִרְבּ⁠וֹ֙1the inner parts

Alternate translation: “the organs” See how you translated this in Exodus 29:13. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1887EXO2918qc2iוְ⁠הִקְטַרְתָּ֤ אֶת־כָּל־הָ⁠אַ֨יִל֙1on the altar

Alternate translation: “and burn all of the ram to make smoke”

1888EXO2918pwjkfigs-parallelismעֹלָ֥ה ה֖וּא לַֽ⁠יהוָ֑ה רֵ֣יחַ נִיח֔וֹחַ אִשֶּׁ֥ה לַ⁠יהוָ֖ה הֽוּא1on the altar

These phrases are in parallel, with the second expanding and clarifying the first. In some languages, you may need to use a different structure to expand and clarify the burnt offering. Alternate translation: “It is a pleasant smelling burnt offering made by fire to Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

1889EXO2919zzsiהַ⁠שֵּׁנִ֑י1on the altar

Except for the second, this verse is identical to verse 15.

1890EXO2920j6b1figs-explicitוְ⁠שָׁחַטְתָּ֣ אֶת־הָ⁠אַ֗יִל1Then you must kill the ram

They killed the ram by cutting its throat. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “and kill the ram by cutting its throat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1891EXO2921bxs6figs-explicitוְ⁠לָקַחְתָּ֞ מִן־הַ⁠דָּ֨ם אֲשֶׁ֥ר עַֽל־הַ⁠מִּזְבֵּחַ֮ וּ⁠מִ⁠שֶּׁ֣מֶן הַ⁠מִּשְׁחָה֒ וְ⁠הִזֵּיתָ֤1Aaron will then be set apart for me

Moses would mix the blood and oil. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “And you shall take some of the blood that is on the altar and mix it with some of the oil of anointing and sprinkle it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1892EXO2922i3dctranslate-unknownהַ⁠קֶּ֗רֶב…הַ⁠כָּבֵד֙…הַ⁠כְּלָיֹ֗ת1inner parts…liver…kidney

The entrails, liver, and kidneys refer to organs inside the body. See how you translated this in Exodus 29:13. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1893EXO2923mckoוְ⁠כִכַּ֨ר לֶ֜חֶם אַחַ֗ת וַֽ⁠חַלַּ֨ת לֶ֥חֶם שֶׁ֛מֶן אַחַ֖ת וְ⁠רָקִ֣יק אֶחָ֑ד מִ⁠סַּל֙ הַ⁠מַּצּ֔וֹת אֲשֶׁ֖ר לִ⁠פְנֵ֥י יְהוָֽה1Take one loaf…before Yahweh

All of these items were in the basket mentioned in verse 2, not just the wafer. Be sure this is clear in your translation. Alternate translation: “and from the basket of bread without yeast that is before the face of Yahweh: one round loaf of bread, and one cake of bread of oil, and one wafer”

1894EXO2923td8wוְ⁠כִכַּ֨ר לֶ֜חֶם אַחַ֗ת וַֽ⁠חַלַּ֨ת לֶ֥חֶם שֶׁ֛מֶן אַחַ֖ת וְ⁠רָקִ֣יק אֶחָ֑ד מִ⁠סַּל֙ הַ⁠מַּצּ֔וֹת1Take one loaf…before Yahweh

For 29:23, see how you translated similar words in Exodus 29:2.

1895EXO2923i7vxfigs-metonymyאֲשֶׁ֖ר לִ⁠פְנֵ֥י יְהוָֽה1that is before Yahweh

This means in the presence of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “that you have placed before Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1896EXO2924b9bjwriting-pronounsהַ⁠כֹּ֔ל1You must put these

Here, all these refers to the parts of the sacrifice mentioned in the previous verses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

1897EXO2924q6k5figs-123personוְ⁠הֵנַפְתָּ֥1You must put these

While the text reads, you shall raise, logically, it is Aaron and his sons who will raise the offerings at this point. If this is confusing in your language, you may use the third person. Alternate translation: “and they shall raise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

1898EXO2924xhhftranslate-symactionוְ⁠הֵנַפְתָּ֥ אֹתָ֛⁠ם תְּנוּפָ֖ה לִ⁠פְנֵ֥י יְהוָֽה1You must put these

The act of raising the meat and bread symbolized dedicating it to Yahweh. The priests would be acting out the process of handing the offering to him. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “and they shall show that they are giving them to me by holding them up to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

1899EXO2924ypitfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֥י יְהוָֽה1You must put these

This means in the presence of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “before Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1900EXO2925e6bjוְ⁠הִקְטַרְתָּ֥ הַ⁠מִּזְבֵּ֖חָ⁠ה עַל־הָ⁠עֹלָ֑ה לְ⁠רֵ֤יחַ נִיח֨וֹחַ֙ לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה אִשֶּׁ֥ה ה֖וּא לַ⁠יהוָֽה1You must put these

See how you translated similar phrases in verse 18.

1901EXO2926bf71מֵ⁠אֵ֤יל הַ⁠מִּלֻּאִים֙1ram of dedication

See how you translated this in verse 22. Alternate translation: “from the ram that you dedicated”

1902EXO2926c21ftranslate-symactionוְ⁠הֵנַפְתָּ֥ אֹת֛⁠וֹ תְּנוּפָ֖ה1Aarons ram of dedication

The act of raising the meat symbolized dedicating it to Yahweh. The priests would be acting out handing the offering to him. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. See how you translated this in verse 24. Alternate translation: “and show that you are giving it to me by holding it up to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

1903EXO2927dzkxtranslate-symactionהַ⁠תְּנוּפָ֗ה וְ⁠אֵת֙ שׁ֣וֹק הַ⁠תְּרוּמָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר הוּנַ֖ף וַ⁠אֲשֶׁ֣ר הוּרָ֑ם1Aarons ram of dedication

The act of raising the meat symbolized dedicating it to Yahweh. The priests would be acting out handing the offering to him. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. See how you translated this in verse 24. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

1904EXO2928uc2dוְ⁠הָיָה֩ לְ⁠אַהֲרֹ֨ן וּ⁠לְ⁠בָנָ֜י⁠ו לְ⁠חָק־עוֹלָ֗ם מֵ⁠אֵת֙ בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל כִּ֥י תְרוּמָ֖ה ה֑וּא1This will be a perpetual share for Aaron and his sons

Alternate translation: “This offering is what Aaron and his sons will always receive from the people”

1905EXO2928q3msמֵ⁠אֵת֙ בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל כִּ֥י תְרוּמָ֖ה ה֑וּא וּ⁠תְרוּמָ֞ה יִהְיֶ֨ה מֵ⁠אֵ֤ת בְּנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ מִ⁠זִּבְחֵ֣י שַׁלְמֵי⁠הֶ֔ם תְּרוּמָתָ֖⁠ם לַ⁠יהוָֽה1This will be a perpetual share for Aaron and his sons

The amount of repetition in this verse may make it difficult to translate smoothly. You may consider combining some phrases if that would work better in your language. Alternate translation: “for the Israelites must offer this portion from what they bring to Yahweh as peace offerings to him”

1906EXO2929qta8figs-abstractnounsוּ⁠בִגְדֵ֤י הַ⁠קֹּ֨דֶשׁ֙1The holy garments of Aaron must also be reserved for his sons after him

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of holiness, you could express the same idea in another way. See how you translated this in 28:2. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1907EXO2929a59zfigs-idiomוּ⁠לְ⁠מַלֵּא־בָ֖⁠ם אֶת־יָדָֽ⁠ם1The holy garments of Aaron must also be reserved for his sons after him

Fill their hand seems to be an idiom for giving authority to someone. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:41. Alternate translation: “to ordain them in the clothing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1908EXO2931l3xkאֵ֥יל הַ⁠מִּלֻּאִ֖ים1the ram for the installation of the priests

The ram of consecration refers to the second ram, the one described in verses 19 and following.

1909EXO2931u9klfigs-explicitבְּ⁠מָקֹ֥ם קָדֹֽשׁ1in a holy place

This is not the same as the Holy Place outside of the Most Holy Place. This probably refers to a place within the courtyard. However, its exact location is not otherwise specified. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “at the entrance to the tent of meeting” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1910EXO2933mcdcfigs-idiomלְ⁠מַלֵּ֥א אֶת־יָדָ֖⁠ם1in a holy place

This seems to be an idiom for giving authority to someone. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:41. Alternate translation: “to ordain them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1911EXO2934rhp7figs-activepassiveלֹ֥א יֵאָכֵ֖ל1It must not be eaten

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “No one may eat it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1912EXO2935yo59כָּ֔כָה1General Information:

Here, thus means “like this” and, as the next verses make clear, refers to the sacrificial ceremony outlined in this chapter which they must repeat seven times.

1913EXO2935wrfstranslate-numbersשִׁבְעַ֥ת1General Information:

Alternate translation: “7” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1914EXO2935c2sifigs-idiomתְּמַלֵּ֥א יָדָֽ⁠ם1General Information:

This seems to be an idiom for giving authority to someone. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:41. Alternate translation: “you shall ordain them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1915EXO2936r5tx0General Information:

This verse and the next explain the purpose of the sacrifice detailed in verses 10-14.

1916EXO2936s81ngrammar-connect-logic-goalוּ⁠פַ֨ר חַטָּ֜את תַּעֲשֶׂ֤ה לַ⁠יּוֹם֙ עַל־הַ⁠כִּפֻּרִ֔ים וְ⁠חִטֵּאתָ֙ עַל־הַ⁠מִּזְבֵּ֔חַ בְּ⁠כַפֶּרְ⁠ךָ֖ עָלָ֑י⁠ו1General Information:

The phrase and you shall purify the altar by making atonement for it describes the purpose of offering the bull. You may want to use a stronger connector. In languages that need to put purpose first, you may need to re-order the clauses. Alternate translation: “And you shall offer a bull of purification for atonement daily, thus you shall purify the altar, by making atonement for it.” or “You shall purify the altar by making atonement for it: you shall offer a bull of purification daily for its atonement.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])

1917EXO2937pq5dfigs-possessionקֹ֣דֶשׁ קָֽדָשִׁ֔ים1Then the altar will be completely set apart to me

Here, holiest holy means extremely or uniquely holy. If this form would not express that this item would become uniquely holy in your language you may need to find another way to express this idea. Alternate translation: “a most holy thing” or “extraordinarily holy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

1918EXO2937qk5hיִקְדָּֽשׁ1will be set apart to Yahweh

Alternate translation: “will also become set apart”

1919EXO2938e4r9figs-idiomבְּנֵֽי־שָׁנָ֛ה1General Information:

The phrase sons of a year is an idiom meaning one year old. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1920EXO2939qxstfigs-idiomבֵּ֥ין הָ⁠עַרְבָּֽיִם1General Information:

The exact meaning of this phrase is debated. Since the priests ate many of the sacrifices, it may have been offered around the time of the evening meal. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1921EXO2940x6i4translate-fractionוְ⁠עִשָּׂרֹ֨ן…רֶ֣בַע…רְבִעִ֥ית1a tenth…the fourth part

A tenth means one part out of ten equal parts. A fourth means one part out of four equal parts. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

1922EXO2940nd8qfigs-explicitוְ⁠עִשָּׂרֹ֨ן סֹ֜לֶת1a tenth…the fourth part

Many commentators suggest that this means one tenth of an “ephah” even though “ephah” is not written. If your translation style retains the original measurement words, you may need to insert the word you are using for “ephah” here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1923EXO2940oxsltranslate-bvolumeוְ⁠עִשָּׂרֹ֨ן סֹ֜לֶת…רֶ֣בַע הַ⁠הִ֔ין…רְבִעִ֥ית הַ⁠הִ֖ין1a tenth…the fourth part

The values given in the UST are approximations as the exact size of an ephah and a hin is not precisely known. An ephah (the implied measurement) may have been around 22 liters, so this is about 2.2 liters of flour. A hin may have been around 3.7 liters, so this is about one liter of both oil and wine. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume]])

1924EXO2941ibchfigs-idiomבֵּ֣ין הָ⁠עַרְבָּ֑יִם1a tenth…the fourth part

The exact meaning of the phrase between the evenings is debated. Since the priests ate many of the sacrifices, it may have been offered around the time of the evening meal. See how you translated it in verse 39. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1925EXO2942j8cgלְ⁠דֹרֹ֣תֵי⁠כֶ֔ם1throughout your generations

Alternate translation: “through all the generations of your descendants.” See how you translated this in Exodus 12:14.

1926EXO2942h5r7figs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה1tent of meeting

This means in the presence of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “before Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1927EXO2943ic8ifigs-activepassiveוְ⁠נִקְדַּ֖שׁ בִּ⁠כְבֹדִֽ⁠י1the tent will be set apart for me by my glory

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “My awesome presence will dedicate the tent to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1928EXO30introz3yc0

Exodus 30 General Notes

This chapter is mostly a return to instructions for building worship equipment for the sacred tent. The forms of “you” are mostly singular. However, they again refer to the workmen that Moses will instruct, so you should return to whatever form you have been following in chapters 25-28.

Structure:

  • v. 1-10: Incense altar
    • v. 1-6: Instructions for making the incense altar
    • v. 7-10: Use of the incense altar
  • v. 11-16: Ransom money for taking a census
  • v. 17-21: Instructions for a washbasin
  • v. 22-30: Anointing oil
    • v. 22-25: Instructions for making the oil
    • v. 26-33: Instructions for using the oil v- 34-38: Making and using sacred incense

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Atonement

Through the offering of blood and money, things and people were kept in Gods favor. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/atonement]])

Holiness

Some items in this chapter became so holy that they could make other things holy. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])

Unknown terms

There are a number of ingredient terms that are unknown even to scholars.

1929EXO301v8vbfigs-youdualוְ⁠עָשִׂ֥יתָ1You must make

Here, you refers to Moses and the people of Israel. If your language makes a distinction, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

1930EXO302w56etranslate-unknownקַרְנֹתָֽי⁠ו1Its horns must be made

See how you translated horns in Exodus 27:2 (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1931EXO302a39mtranslate-bdistanceאַמָּ֨ה…וְ⁠אַמָּ֤ה…וְ⁠אַמָּתַ֖יִם1Its horns must be made

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. A cubit is approximately 46cm. For your reference, a more precise conversion to metric is: 46cm … 46cm … 94cm (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

1932EXO303d3uu0General Information:

This verse is very similar to Exodus 25:11, so see how you translated there.

1933EXO304qyg40to be attached to it

When translating this verse, you may want to refer back to several other passages regarding making rings for carrying poles. See Exo 25:12, Exo 25:26, Exo 25:27, & Exo 27:4.

1934EXO304bvxifigs-idiomלְ⁠בָתִּ֣ים1to be attached to it

Here, the word housings means that the rings will hold the poles. Since they are where the poles belong for use, they are figuratively their house. If you have a similar idiom meaning “place of belonging,” you may use it or you may translate the idea. Alternate translation: “a place” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1935EXO306ulvnfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֣י…לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י1to be attached to it

Here, before the face of means in front of. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1936EXO306e87sfigs-yousingularלְ⁠ךָ֖1to be attached to it

Here, you refers to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])

1937EXO307o1zoבַּ⁠בֹּ֣קֶר בַּ⁠בֹּ֗קֶר1General Information:

Alternate translation: “Each morning” or “Daily, in the morning”

1938EXO307l2rlבְּ⁠הֵיטִיב֛⁠וֹ אֶת־הַ⁠נֵּרֹ֖ת1General Information:

The lamps had burned overnight and werent needed during the day, so he would put them out and do whatever maintenance was required for them to be ready to burn again in the evening. Alternate translation: “trims the lamps”

1939EXO308nrgkוּ⁠בְ⁠הַעֲלֹ֨ת אַהֲרֹ֧ן אֶת־הַ⁠נֵּרֹ֛ת1throughout your generations

This may indicate that in the morning Aaron had taken the lamps down, and he would light them and then put them up on the holders in the evening.

1940EXO308sq7xfigs-idiomבֵּ֥ין הָ⁠עֲרְבַּ֖יִם1throughout your generations

The exact meaning of this phrase is debated. See how you translated it in 29:39. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1941EXO308qm7iלְ⁠דֹרֹתֵי⁠כֶֽם1throughout your generations

Alternate translation: “through all the generations of your descendants.” See how you translated this in Exodus 12:14.

1942EXO309ckf9לֹא־תַעֲל֥וּ עָלָ֛י⁠ו קְטֹ֥רֶת זָרָ֖ה וְ⁠עֹלָ֣ה וּ⁠מִנְחָ֑ה1But you must offer

Later, in verses 34 and following, God describes how to make the one sort of incense that he wants burnt on this altar. Alternate translation: “You shall only offer up the kind of incense I tell you. You shall not make burnt or grain offerings on it.”

1943EXO3010dgnygrammar-connect-logic-goalקֹֽדֶשׁ־קָֽדָשִׁ֥ים ה֖וּא לַ⁠יהוָֽה1horns

This last clause defines the purpose of the ritual described in this verse. See Exo 29:37. Use a natural way in your language for indicating purpose. Alternate translation: “This is to make it holy of holies to Yahweh.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])

1944EXO3010k6xkקַרְנֹתָ֔י⁠ו1horns

These were projections that looked like ox horns and were attached to the four corners of the altar. See how you translated this in Exodus 27:2.

1945EXO3010san2לְ⁠דֹרֹ֣תֵי⁠כֶ֔ם1throughout your generations

Alternate translation: “through all the generations of your descendants.” See how you translated this in Exodus 12:14.

1946EXO3010jxn0figs-possessionקֹֽדֶשׁ־קָֽדָשִׁ֥ים1throughout your generations

Here, holiest holy means extremely or uniquely holy. If this form would not express that this item would become uniquely holy in your language you may need to find another way to express this idea. See how you translated this in Exodus 29:37. Alternate translation: “a most holy thing” or “extraordinarily holy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

1947EXO3010uxb4figs-quotemarksלַ⁠יהוָֽה1throughout your generations

After Yahweh, the direct quote that began in Exo 25:2 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]])

1948EXO3012dprxfigs-idiomתִשָּׂ֞א אֶת־רֹ֥אשׁ1When you take

In this context, lift up the head means to take a census. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “take a census” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1949EXO3012s73cfigs-youתִשָּׂ֞א1When you take

This could mean: (1) you refers to Moses and the leaders of Israel in future generations when they take a census or (2) you refers to just Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

1950EXO3012k5p1אִ֣ישׁ1a census of the Israelites

The leaders only counted the Israelite men.

1951EXO3013y1knfigs-idiomכָּל־הָ⁠עֹבֵר֙ עַל־הַ⁠פְּקֻדִ֔ים1half a shekel of silver

This is an idiom that suggests that the men were counted by walking past someone who was counting people as they walked by. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “Everyone counted” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1952EXO3013i4wktranslate-bweightהַ⁠שֶּׁ֖קֶל…בְּ⁠שֶׁ֣קֶל…גֵּרָה֙ הַ⁠שֶּׁ֔קֶל…הַ⁠שֶּׁ֔קֶל1half a shekel of silver

The shekel and the gerah are units of weight. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

1953EXO3013a2pytranslate-bmoneyהַ⁠שֶּׁ֖קֶל…בְּ⁠שֶׁ֣קֶל…הַ⁠שֶּׁ֔קֶל…הַ⁠שֶּׁ֔קֶל1half a shekel of silver

The shekel was used as both a weight and a unit of money. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]])

1954EXO3013w3hxtranslate-fractionמַחֲצִ֥ית…מַחֲצִ֣ית1half a shekel of silver

A half means one part out of two equal parts. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

1955EXO3013nfp6בְּ⁠שֶׁ֣קֶל הַ⁠קֹּ֑דֶשׁ עֶשְׂרִ֤ים גֵּרָה֙ הַ⁠שֶּׁ֔קֶל1according 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.

1956EXO3014uqt6figs-idiomכֹּ֗ל הָ⁠עֹבֵר֙ עַל־הַ⁠פְּקֻדִ֔ים1from twenty years old and up

This is an idiom that suggests that the men were counted by walking past someone who was counting people as they walked by. It is the same phrase as in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “Everyone counted” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1957EXO3014vhimfigs-idiomמִ⁠בֶּ֛ן עֶשְׂרִ֥ים שָׁנָ֖ה1from twenty years old and up

This is an idiom that refers to age. See the UST and how you translated the same idiom in Exo 7:7. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1958EXO3014k4h9figs-metaphorמִ⁠בֶּ֛ן עֶשְׂרִ֥ים שָׁנָ֖ה וָ⁠מָ֑עְלָ⁠ה1from twenty years old and up

Larger numbers are spoken of as being up or above smaller numbers. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “from twenty years old and more” or “who is twenty years old or older” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1959EXO3015e8xatranslate-bmoneyמִֽ⁠מַּחֲצִ֖ית הַ⁠שָּׁ֑קֶל1the half shekel

See how you translated this in Exodus 3:13. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]])

1960EXO3015ew8pfigs-123personנַפְשֹׁתֵי⁠כֶֽם1the half shekel

The plural form of you is used here. In many cases, since Yahweh is speaking to Moses about the people that will be counted, it may make more sense to change to the third person. However, Moses would be counted as well and would have to pay the ransom, so a form of you that could include Moses and all the other Israelite men would also be an appropriate translation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

1961EXO3016z6tnוְ⁠הָיָה֩ לִ⁠בְנֵ֨י יִשְׂרָאֵ֤ל לְ⁠זִכָּרוֹן֙ לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה לְ⁠כַפֵּ֖ר עַל־נַפְשֹׁתֵי⁠כֶֽם1It must be a reminder to the Israelites before me, to make atonement for your lives

This sentence is very unclear. It is not clear who is being reminded of what. This could mean: (1) that it will remind Yahweh that the Israelites have given money for their lives, and therefore he should welcome them. (2) that it will remind the Israelites that they have given Yahweh money for their lives. Therefore, Yahweh will welcome them.

1962EXO3016mwixfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה1It must be a reminder to the Israelites before me, to make atonement for your lives

Here, face figuratively represents the presence of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “before Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1963EXO3018v88ytranslate-unknownכִּיּ֥וֹר נְחֹ֛שֶׁת1bronze basin

Alternate translation: “a bronze bowl” or “a bronze tub” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1964EXO3018bh82וְ⁠כַנּ֥⁠וֹ1a bronze stand

The base is what the basin would be put upon.

1965EXO3018iq8nלְ⁠רָחְצָ֑ה1a basin for washing

This phrase, for washing, explains the purpose for which the priests were to use the bronze basin.

1966EXO3019ivb1מִמֶּ֑⁠נּוּ1water in it

Alternate translation: “in the water in the basin”

1967EXO3020dykufigs-explicitוְ⁠לֹ֣א יָמֻ֑תוּ1water in it

The priests might die if they do not wash because God would kill them for being defiled in his presence. If your readers would not understand this you may want to include it in a footnote or in the text. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1968EXO3020it0hgrammar-connect-logic-goalוְ⁠לֹ֣א יָמֻ֑תוּ1water in it

Not dying is the goal of the priests washing. If the goal of some action needs to be placed elsewhere in the structure of your language move it to the usual location. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])

1969EXO3021hp35וְ⁠הָיְתָ֨ה לָ⁠הֶ֧ם חָק־עוֹלָ֛ם ל֥⁠וֹ וּ⁠לְ⁠זַרְע֖⁠וֹ לְ⁠דֹרֹתָֽ⁠ם1for Aaron and his descendants throughout their peoples generations

See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 12:17.

1970EXO3023m9g7translate-unknownבְּשָׂמִ֣ים1spices

These are parts of dried plants (other than the leaves) which 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]])

1971EXO3023zq43figs-ellipsisחֲמֵ֣שׁ מֵא֔וֹת…חֲמִשִּׁ֣ים וּ⁠מָאתָ֑יִם…חֲמִשִּׁ֥ים וּ⁠מָאתָֽיִם1five hundred shekels…250 shekels

The next verse mentions that these are shekel weight measurements. You may want to include some indication of that here. Alternate translation: “500 shekels … 250 shekels … 250 shekels” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1972EXO3023xga2translate-unknownוְ⁠קִנְּמָן1cinnamon…cane

We know that cinnamon is a sweet spice taken from the inside of the bark of a tree that grows in south-east Asia. See Wikipeda (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1973EXO3023t2metranslate-unknownוּ⁠קְנֵה1cinnamon…cane

This plant is unknown to scholars. Alternate translation: “and reed of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1974EXO3024p9jhtranslate-unknownוְ⁠קִדָּ֕ה1cassia

It is known that cassia is a sweet spice taken from the bark of a tree that grows in east Asia. It is slightly different than the spice cinnamon in the previous verse. See Wikipeda (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1975EXO3024n38ftranslate-bweightבְּ⁠שֶׁ֣קֶל הַ⁠קֹּ֑דֶשׁ1the 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. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

1976EXO3024dv89translate-bvolumeהִֽין1one hin

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express the quantity in modern measurements. Alternatively, to help your readers recognize that the biblical writings come from long ago when people used different measurements, you could express the amount using the ancient measurement, the hin, and explain the equivalent in modern measurements in a footnote.(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume]])

1977EXO3025k3s5מַעֲשֵׂ֣ה רֹקֵ֑חַ1the work of a perfumer

This could mean: (1) Moses was to have an ointment mixer do the work. (2) Moses was to do the work himself the way an ointment mixer would do it.

1978EXO3025yv9ltranslate-unknownרֹקֵ֑חַ1a perfumer

This is a person who is skilled in mixing spices and oils. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1979EXO3025ioemfigs-abstractnounsשֶׁ֥מֶן מִשְׁחַת־קֹ֖דֶשׁ1a perfumer

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of holiness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “a holy oil of anointment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1980EXO3026u241figs-youוּ⁠מָשַׁחְתָּ֥1You must anoint

Here, you may refer to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

1981EXO3029np7gאֹתָ֔⁠ם1set them apart

Here, them refers to the items listed in Exodus 30:26-28.

1982EXO3029m062figs-possessionקֹ֣דֶשׁ קָֽדָשִׁ֑ים1set them apart

Here, holiest holy means extremely or uniquely holy. If this form would not express that this item would become uniquely holy in your language you may need to find another way to express this idea. See how you translated this in Exodus 29:37. Alternate translation: “a most holy thing” or “extraordinarily holy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

1983EXO3031k4s7לְ⁠דֹרֹתֵי⁠כֶֽם1throughout your peoples generations

Alternate translation: “all the generations of your descendants.” See how you translated this in Exodus 12:14.

1984EXO3031e2tifigs-abstractnounsשֶׁ֠מֶן מִשְׁחַת־קֹ֨דֶשׁ1throughout your peoples generations

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of holiness, you could express the same idea in another way. See how you translated this in 30:25. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1985EXO3032rlk4figs-activepassiveעַל־בְּשַׂ֤ר אָדָם֙ לֹ֣א יִיסָ֔ךְ1It must not be applied to peoples skin

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “You shall not pour it on the body of a man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1986EXO3032v3brוּ⁠בְ⁠מַ֨תְכֻּנְתּ֔⁠וֹ1with the same formula

Alternate translation: “and … with the same ingredients” or “and … with the same items” or “and … according to this recipe”

1987EXO3032it0xgrammar-connect-logic-resultקֹ֣דֶשׁ ה֔וּא קֹ֖דֶשׁ יִהְיֶ֥ה לָ⁠כֶֽם1with the same formula

The second half of this statement (it shall be holy to you) explains to the people the result of this oil being holy, which is, they must respect it as a holy thing. It may make more sense in some languages to move this whole statement to the beginning of the verse, because the rule about pouring on someones body is an application of the result. Alternate translation (placed at the beginning of the verse): “Because it is sacred, you must treat it like it is sacred, therefore” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

1988EXO3033pa53figs-metaphorוְ⁠נִכְרַ֖ת מֵ⁠עַמָּֽי⁠ו1that person must be cut off from his people

See how you translated cut off in Exodus 12:15. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1989EXO3033yhgifigs-metaphorוְ⁠נִכְרַ֖ת מֵ⁠עַמָּֽי⁠ו1that person must be cut off from his people

See how you translated cut off in 12:15. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1990EXO3034uo57translate-unknownנָטָ֤ף׀ וּ⁠שְׁחֵ֨לֶת֙ וְ⁠חֶלְבְּנָ֔ה1General Information:

Here is a brief description of these materials, though we really do not know exactly what they are: stacte is a resin from certain gum plants, onycha is from certain shellfish or mollusks, and galbanum is another kind of gum resin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1991EXO3035y8yjוְ⁠עָשִׂ֤יתָ אֹתָ⁠הּ֙ קְטֹ֔רֶת רֹ֖קַח מַעֲשֵׂ֣ה רוֹקֵ֑חַ1blended by a perfumer

This could mean: (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.

1992EXO3036nz2afigs-youוְ⁠שָֽׁחַקְתָּ֣…וְ⁠נָתַתָּ֨ה1You will grind it

Here, you probably refers to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

1993EXO3036oj2rfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֤י1You will grind it

Alternate translation: “in front of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1994EXO3036mxwwfigs-metonymyהָ⁠עֵדֻת֙1You will grind it

Here, testimony probably refers to the sacred chest that contained the tablets of the law. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1995EXO3036i71bfigs-possessionקֹ֥דֶשׁ קָֽדָשִׁ֖ים1You will grind it

Here, holiest holy means extremely or uniquely holy. If this form would not express that this item would become uniquely holy in your language you may need to find another way to express this idea. See how you translated this in Exodus 29:37. Alternate translation: “a most holy thing” or “extraordinarily holy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

1996EXO3036t8y9figs-youdualלָ⁠כֶֽם1You will regard

Here, you is plural and refers to Moses and all the people. If your language makes a distinction, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

1997EXO3037dq6cfigs-youdualתַעֲשׂ֖וּ1you must not make any

The word you here refers to the people of Israel. If your language makes a distinction, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

1998EXO3037yv1yבְּ⁠מַ֨תְכֻּנְתָּ֔⁠הּ1with the same formula

Alternate translation: “with the same ingredients” or “with the same items.” See how you translated this in Exodus 30:32.

1999EXO3037wh25קֹ֛דֶשׁ תִּהְיֶ֥ה לְ⁠ךָ֖ לַ⁠יהוָֽה1It must be most holy to you

Alternate translation: “You must consider it to be most holy”

2000EXO3038xn6vלְ⁠הָרִ֣יחַ בָּ֑⁠הּ1perfume

This could mean: (1) to enjoy the scent for oneself (2) to wear as a perfume.

2001EXO3038sa1mfigs-metaphorוְ⁠נִכְרַ֖ת מֵ⁠עַמָּֽי⁠ו1must be cut off from his people

See how you translated cut off in Exodus 12:15. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2002EXO3038o6v0figs-metaphorוְ⁠נִכְרַ֖ת מֵ⁠עַמָּֽי⁠ו1must be cut off from his people

See how you translated cut off in 12:15. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2003EXO31introwfk70

Exodus 31 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

  • v. 1-11: Selection of the skilled craftsmen
  • v. 12-17: Sabbath instruction
  • v. 18: 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]])

2004EXO312m8jufigs-idiomקָרָ֣אתִֽי בְ⁠שֵׁ֑ם1I have called by name

Yahweh speaks of choosing specific people as calling them by name. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “I have chosen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2005EXO312hf5rtranslate-namesבְּצַלְאֵ֛ל…אוּרִ֥י…ח֖וּר1Bezalel…Uri…Hur

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

2006EXO313f7skfigs-metaphorוָ⁠אֲמַלֵּ֥א אֹת֖⁠וֹ ר֣וּחַ אֱלֹהִ֑ים1I 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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “I have given my spirit to Bezalel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2007EXO313hleyfigs-abstractnounsבְּ⁠חָכְמָ֛ה1I have filled Bezalel with my Spirit

If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun skill in another way. Alternate translation: “so he can work skillfully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2008EXO313my4ffigs-abstractnounsוּ⁠בִ⁠תְבוּנָ֥ה1I have filled Bezalel with my Spirit

If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun understanding in another way. Alternate translation: “and so he can understand his work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2009EXO313emp5figs-abstractnounsוּ⁠בְ⁠דַ֖עַת1I have filled Bezalel with my Spirit

If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun knowledge in another way. Alternate translation: “and so he knows his work well” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2010EXO313r6i5figs-abstractnounsוּ⁠בְ⁠כָל־מְלָאכָֽה1for all kinds of craftsmanship

If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun craftsmanship in another way. Alternate translation: “and for making all kinds of crafts” or “and so that he can make all kinds of things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2011EXO316jh61translate-namesאָהֳלִיאָ֞ב…אֲחִֽיסָמָךְ֙1Oholiab…Ahisamak

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

2012EXO316wcq7figs-idiomוּ⁠בְ⁠לֵ֥ב כָּל־חֲכַם־לֵ֖ב נָתַ֣תִּי חָכְמָ֑ה1I 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. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “I have given skill to all who are wise” or “I have made all who are wise able to make things well” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2013EXO3111iusbwriting-pronounsיַעֲשֽׂוּ1I have put skill into the hearts of all who are wise

They refers to Bezalel and Oholiab as well as the unnamed other “skilled of heart” (talented craftsmen) referred to in verse 2 and verse 6. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

2014EXO3113bvegfigs-quotemarksלֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר1You must certainly keep Yahwehs Sabbath days

A second-level direct quotation starts after saying. 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. There are multiple possible endings for this quotation, which will be addressed in later verses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

2015EXO3113i1lwfigs-metaphorאַ֥ךְ אֶת־שַׁבְּתֹתַ֖⁠י תִּשְׁמֹ֑רוּ1You must certainly keep Yahwehs Sabbath days

Yahweh uses the phrase keep my Sabbaths as a metaphor for obeying his instructions about the Sabbath, as if it was a precious thing they should guard. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “You must certainly obey Yahwehs instructions about the Sabbath” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2016EXO3113gw13לְ⁠דֹרֹ֣תֵי⁠כֶ֔ם1throughout your peoples generations

Alternate translation: “through all the generations of your descendants.” See how you translated this in Exodus 12:14.

2017EXO3114dsyafigs-quotemarksלָ⁠כֶ֑ם1throughout your peoples generations

One possible ending place for the second-level quotation that began in the previous verse is after to you. The rest of Yahwehs instructions to Moses in this section do not use the second person to address Israel directly, so you may close the second-level quotation here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

2018EXO3114plq5figs-activepassiveמ֣וֹת יוּמָ֔ת1must surely be put to death

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you must surely kill” or “you must surely execute” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2019EXO3114fz1gfigs-metaphorוְ⁠נִכְרְתָ֛ה1must surely be cut off from his people

See how you translated cut off in 12:15. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2020EXO3115v4dvtranslate-numbersשֵׁ֣שֶׁת1but the seventh day

Alternate translation: “6” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2021EXO3115fvgatranslate-ordinalוּ⁠בַ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠שְּׁבִיעִ֗י1but the seventh day

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “but day 7” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

2022EXO3115lratשַׁבַּ֧ת שַׁבָּת֛וֹן1but the seventh day

Alternate translation: “a Sabbath of complete rest”

2023EXO3115fxuofigs-activepassiveמ֥וֹת יוּמָֽת1must surely be put to death

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you must surely kill” or “you must surely execute” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2024EXO3116t9hwfigs-metaphorוְ⁠שָׁמְר֥וּ בְנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל אֶת־הַ⁠שַּׁבָּ֑ת1must keep the Sabbath

Yahweh uses the phrase keep my Sabbaths as a metaphor for obeying his instructions about the Sabbath, as if it was a precious thing they should guard. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “And the sons of Israel must obey Yahwehs instructions about the Sabbath” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2025EXO3116n7q2לְ⁠דֹרֹתָ֖⁠ם1They must observe it throughout their peoples generations

See how you translated “throughout their peoples generations” in Exodus 12:42. Alternate translation: “; they and all the generations of their descendants must observe it.”

2026EXO3116yef8בְּרִ֥ית עוֹלָֽם1lasting covenant

Alternate translation: “A covenant that will always exist” or “A lasting covenant”

2027EXO3117oc30figs-activepassiveוַ⁠יִּנָּפַֽשׁ1lasting covenant

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and he refreshed himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2028EXO3118xc6hfigs-activepassiveכְּתֻבִ֖ים בְּ⁠אֶצְבַּ֥ע אֱלֹהִֽים1written on by his own hand

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “which Yahweh wrote on with his own hand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2029EXO32introvv2w0

Exodus 32 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The events in verses 1-6 of this chapter occured while Moses spoke with God and therefore happened sometime during the events recorded between Exodus 24:15 and Exodus 31. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])

  • v. 1-6: The people ask Aaron to make them a god and he makes the golden calf
  • v. 7-29 - Yahweh and Moses reaction
    • v. 11-14 - Moses intercedes for the people
  • v. 30-34 - Moses intercedes for the people

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]])

2030EXO321oan6writing-newevent0the people saw

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

2031EXO321cfk8figs-metaphorוַ⁠יַּ֣רְא הָ⁠עָ֔ם1the people saw

Here, the word saw is used to indicate understanding or realization of a situation. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “And the people realized” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2032EXO321lnaufigs-rpronounsוַ⁠יִּקָּהֵ֨ל הָ⁠עָ֜ם1the people saw

This means the people both decided to gather and were the ones gathering. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

2033EXO321k2i1figs-idiomק֣וּם1Come, make us an idol

Arise strengthens the force of the command following it. The people were demanding that Aaron make an idol for them. It did not necessarily mean that he should literally stand up. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2034EXO321mrb5figs-metonymyיֵֽלְכוּ֙ לְ⁠פָנֵ֔י⁠נוּ1go before us

Here, before our faces means ahead of. The Israelites want idols to lead them. Alternate translation: “shall lead us” or “shall be our leader” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2035EXO321wulkכִּי־זֶ֣ה׀ מֹשֶׁ֣ה1go before us

People showed disrespect by putting the word this before his name, as if Moses were someone they did not know and could not trust. They were creating social distance between him and themselves. When translating, use a form in your language that communicates the same sense of disassociation between people.

2036EXO322p86swriting-pronounsוְ⁠הָבִ֖יאוּ1bring them to me

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

2037EXO323ckg2figs-hyperboleכָּל־הָ⁠עָ֔ם1All the people

This refers to all the people who rejected Moses as their leader and Yahweh as their God. Later parts of the text reveal that there were people still faithful to Moses and Yahweh and that the Israelites had a great deal more gold. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that means many or most. Alternate translation: “many people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

2038EXO324uf9etranslate-unknownוַ⁠יָּ֤צַר אֹת⁠וֹ֙ בַּ⁠חֶ֔רֶט וַֽ⁠יַּעֲשֵׂ֖⁠הוּ עֵ֣גֶל מַסֵּכָ֑ה1fashioned it with an engraving tool and he made a cast idol in the shape of a calf

Most likely this means that Aaron melted the gold and poured it into a mold that had the shape of a calf. When the gold cooled and became hard, he removed the mold, and the hardened gold had the shape of a calf. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

2039EXO324cc7swriting-pronounsוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמְר֔וּ1fashioned it with an engraving tool and he made a cast idol in the shape of a calf

The identity of the speakers, referred to as they, remains unknown. Alternate translation: “And someone said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

2040EXO324encefigs-123personאֵ֤לֶּה אֱלֹהֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙…הֶעֱל֖וּ⁠ךָ1fashioned it with an engraving tool and he made a cast idol in the shape of a calf

Because the speaker of this sentence is unknown and mentioned in the plural, it is possible that it is the people speaking. In that case, it would be possible for a translation to use the first person rather than second person here. Alternate translation: “These are our gods … brought us up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

2041EXO324n17vאֵ֤לֶּה אֱלֹהֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙1fashioned it with an engraving tool and he made a cast idol in the shape of a calf

In the text, there only appears to be one “god” (the golden calf idol) presented to Israel. If it would be clearer to your audience, you may consider translating these … gods as singular. Alternate translation: “this is your god”

2042EXO325ztx4figs-explicitוַ⁠יַּ֣רְא אַהֲרֹ֔ן1When Aaron saw this

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express what he saw explicitly. “Aaron saw what the people did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2043EXO325odaqfigs-metonymyלְ⁠פָנָ֑י⁠ו1When Aaron saw this

Here, before its face means in front of. Alternate translation: “in front of it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2044EXO325p2dffigs-explicitלְ⁠פָנָ֑י⁠ו1When Aaron saw this

Here, it is the golden bull-calf. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “in front of the bull-calf idol” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2045EXO326as6ufigs-euphemismלְ⁠צַחֵֽק1to carouse in wild celebration

This word may imply drunken and sexual sin (for a sexual implication see Genesis 26:8). However, the only actions mentioned in the text are singing (v. 18) and dancing (v. 19), so translators should avoid using a term that is overly suggestive. Alternate translation: “to revel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

2046EXO327iajswriting-newevent0to carouse in wild celebration

Here there is a scene shift back to the top of the mountain with Moses and Yahweh, which may need to be marked in a certain way in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

2047EXO327tcekfigs-rpronounsשִׁחֵ֣ת1to carouse in wild celebration

Here, themselves is used to indicate that the Israelites actions made the Israelites corrupt. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this. Alternate translation: “have acted corruptly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

2048EXO328eua5figs-metaphorסָ֣רוּ מַהֵ֗ר מִן־הַ⁠דֶּ֨רֶךְ֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר צִוִּיתִ֔⁠ם1left 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. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “They have quickly stopped doing what I commanded them to do” or “They have quickly stopped obeying what I commanded them to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2049EXO328tg9efigs-quotemarksאֵ֤לֶּה אֱלֹהֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל אֲשֶׁ֥ר הֶֽעֱל֖וּ⁠ךָ מֵ⁠אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם1left the way that I commanded them

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]])

2050EXO328w7v8figs-quotesinquotesאֵ֤לֶּה אֱלֹהֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל אֲשֶׁ֥ר הֶֽעֱל֖וּ⁠ךָ מֵ⁠אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם1left the way that I commanded them

You may want to translate this as an indirect quotation in order to reduce the layers of quotations in this passage. Alternative translation: “that these are your gods, Israel, that brought you up from the land of Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

2051EXO328sjj1אֵ֤לֶּה אֱלֹהֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙1left the way that I commanded them

In the text, there only appears to be one “god” (the golden calf idol) presented to Israel. If it would be clearer to your audience, you may consider translating these … gods as singular. See how you translated this in verse 4. Alternate translation: “This is your god”

2052EXO328f62vfigs-123personאֱלֹהֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙…הֶֽעֱל֖וּ⁠ךָ1left the way that I commanded them

Because the speaker of this sentence is unknown and mentioned in the plural, it is possible that it is the people speaking. In that case, it would be possible for a translation to use the first person rather than second person here. See how you translated this in verse 4. Alternate translation: “our gods … brought us up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

2053EXO329ffe2figs-metaphorעַם־קְשֵׁה־עֹ֖רֶף1a stiff-necked people

Yahweh speaks of the people being rebellious as if they had hard necks. The image comes from an animal that does not want to go the way his master is trying to direct him (not going in the way God commanded). If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “is a rebellious people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2054EXO329my87grammar-collectivenounsהַ⁠זֶּ֔ה…הֽוּא1a stiff-necked people

The word people is a collective noun, so the pronouns referring to the people are singular. You may use plural pronouns if that is the normal usage in your language. Alternate translation: “these … they” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

2055EXO3210fmk3grammar-connect-logic-resultוְ⁠עַתָּה֙1Now then

So now is used here to mark that Yahwehs next statements are a result of what he has said in the previous verses. Alternate translation: “Therefore” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

2056EXO3210sd9wfigs-idiomוְ⁠יִֽחַר־אַפִּ֥⁠י בָ⁠הֶ֖ם1My anger will burn hot against them

This is an idiom meaning that Yahweh is angry. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “And let me be angry with them”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2057EXO3210vc2uwriting-pronounsאוֹתְ⁠ךָ֖1from you

Here, you refers to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

2058EXO3211h62efigs-rquestionלָ⁠מָ֤ה יְהוָה֙ יֶחֱרֶ֤ה אַפְּ⁠ךָ֙ בְּ⁠עַמֶּ֔⁠ךָ אֲשֶׁ֤ר הוֹצֵ֨אתָ֙ מֵ⁠אֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֔יִם בְּ⁠כֹ֥חַ גָּד֖וֹל וּ⁠בְ⁠יָ֥ד חֲזָקָֽה1why 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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Yahweh, do not let your nose burn against your people whom you have brought out from the land of Egypt with great power and with a strong hand.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

2059EXO3211nuwffigs-idiomיֶחֱרֶ֤ה אַפְּ⁠ךָ֙ בְּ⁠עַמֶּ֔⁠ךָ1My anger will burn hot against them

This is an idiom meaning that Yahweh is angry with his people. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “are you angry with your people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2060EXO3211t2cvfigs-doubletבְּ⁠כֹ֥חַ גָּד֖וֹל וּ⁠בְ⁠יָ֥ד חֲזָקָֽה1great power…mighty hand

These two phrases share similar meanings and are combined for emphasis. If doubling in this way would not convey emphasis in your language, you will need to find a way to translate it that does give emphasis. Alternate translation: “using your very strong power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

2061EXO3211ph43figs-metonymyוּ⁠בְ⁠יָ֥ד חֲזָקָֽה1a mighty hand

Here, hand represents Gods actions or works. See how you translated this in Exodus 6:1. Alternate translation: “and with powerful works” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2062EXO3212r8ijfigs-rquestionלָ⁠מָּה֩ יֹאמְר֨וּ מִצְרַ֜יִם לֵ⁠אמֹ֗ר בְּ⁠רָעָ֤ה הֽוֹצִיאָ⁠ם֙ לַ⁠הֲרֹ֤ג אֹתָ⁠ם֙ בֶּֽ⁠הָרִ֔ים וּ֨⁠לְ⁠כַלֹּתָ֔⁠ם מֵ⁠עַ֖ל פְּנֵ֣י הָֽ⁠אֲדָמָ֑ה1Why 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. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: If you destroy your people, the Egyptians might say, He brought them out with evil intent, to kill them in the mountains and to destroy them from on the face of the ground. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

2063EXO3212yvezfigs-quotesinquotesיֹאמְר֨וּ מִצְרַ֜יִם לֵ⁠אמֹ֗ר בְּ⁠רָעָ֤ה הֽוֹצִיאָ⁠ם֙ לַ⁠הֲרֹ֤ג אֹתָ⁠ם֙ בֶּֽ⁠הָרִ֔ים וּ֨⁠לְ⁠כַלֹּתָ֔⁠ם מֵ⁠עַ֖ל פְּנֵ֣י הָֽ⁠אֲדָמָ֑ה1Why should the Egyptians say, He led them out…to destroy them from the face of the earth?

After saying, this is a second-level quotation. 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: “the Egyptians say that you brought them out with evil intent, to kill them in the mountains and to destroy them from on the face of the ground” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

2064EXO3212kzh7figs-metonymyמֵ⁠עַ֖ל פְּנֵ֣י הָֽ⁠אֲדָמָ֑ה1face of the earth

Here, face means “surface.” Alternate translation: “from the surface of the land” or “from the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2065EXO3212fns1שׁ֚וּב מֵ⁠חֲר֣וֹן אַפֶּ֔⁠ךָ1Turn from your burning anger

Alternate translation: “Stop your burning anger” or “Stop being so angry”

2066EXO3212iz5qfigs-idiomשׁ֚וּב מֵ⁠חֲר֣וֹן אַפֶּ֔⁠ךָ וְ⁠הִנָּחֵ֥ם עַל־הָ⁠רָעָ֖ה לְ⁠עַמֶּֽ⁠ךָ1Turn from your burning anger

Here, Yahwehs anger (burning nose) and plan to punish the people are spoken of as things that he could turn away from and repent of (repentance also means to turn from). This imagery may not translate into your language, and you may need to use a different expression. Alternate translation: “Calm down, and please do not stay determined to do evil to your people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2067EXO3212p1dffigs-idiomמֵ⁠חֲר֣וֹן אַפֶּ֔⁠ךָ1your burning anger

This is an idiom that means anger. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “from your terrible anger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2068EXO3213t9saזְכֹ֡ר1Call to mind Abraham

Alternate translation: “Think about”

2069EXO3213p8jqנִשְׁבַּ֣עְתָּ1you swore

Alternate translation: “you made an oath”

2070EXO3213q1g1וְ⁠כָל־הָ⁠אָ֨רֶץ הַ⁠זֹּ֜את אֲשֶׁ֣ר אָמַ֗רְתִּי אֶתֵּן֙ לְ⁠זַרְעֲ⁠כֶ֔ם1They will inherit it forever

That is, the land of Canaan.

2071EXO3215cx7zfigs-activepassiveלֻחֹ֗ת כְּתֻבִים֙ מִ⁠שְּׁנֵ֣י עֶבְרֵי⁠הֶ֔ם מִ⁠זֶּ֥ה וּ⁠מִ⁠זֶּ֖ה הֵ֥ם כְּתֻבִֽים1tablets of the covenant decrees

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh had written on both the sides of the tablets, on this side and on that side he had written.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2072EXO3216w3uafigs-infostructureוְ⁠הַ֨⁠לֻּחֹ֔ת מַעֲשֵׂ֥ה אֱלֹהִ֖ים הֵ֑מָּה וְ⁠הַ⁠מִּכְתָּ֗ב מִכְתַּ֤ב אֱלֹהִים֙ ה֔וּא1The tablets were Gods own work, and the writing was Gods own writing

These two sentences have an unusual structure that places emphasis on tablets and writing. If your language would emphasize these topics in a different way than moving them to the beginning of the sentence, follow your languages natural usage for emphasis. Alternate translation: “And the tablets themselves were the work of God. And the writing itself was the writing of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])

2073EXO3217cua3writing-participantsיְהוֹשֻׁ֛עַ1he said to Moses

Joshua was last mentioned in Exodus 24:13. The text does not say if he was on top of the mountain with Moses or if he waited for him part way up. Consider if your language will need to re-introduce Joshua in any way here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

2074EXO3218r0gmwriting-poetryאֵ֥ין קוֹל֙ עֲנ֣וֹת גְּבוּרָ֔ה וְ⁠אֵ֥ין ק֖וֹל עֲנ֣וֹת חֲלוּשָׁ֑ה ק֣וֹל עַנּ֔וֹת אָנֹכִ֖י שֹׁמֵֽעַ1he said to Moses

These lines are widely considered to be poetic. It is not clear why a poetic form is used here. In some languages it may not be appropriate to convey this response in poetic form, in which case another form may be used. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]])

2075EXO3218m4k0figs-parallelismאֵ֥ין קוֹל֙ עֲנ֣וֹת גְּבוּרָ֔ה וְ⁠אֵ֥ין ק֖וֹל עֲנ֣וֹת חֲלוּשָׁ֑ה ק֣וֹל עַנּ֔וֹת אָנֹכִ֖י שֹׁמֵֽעַ1he said to Moses

The poetic form here is parallelism in the repetition of sound of singing. If it would be unclear to say that Moses heard the sound of singing in the third line after saying he didnt hear the sound of singing twice before, something more like the more contrastive UST may be followed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

2076EXO3218fdg8figs-explicitק֣וֹל עַנּ֔וֹת אָנֹכִ֖י שֹׁמֵֽעַ1he said to Moses

If it is unclear to say that Moses hears the sound of singing after twice saying he didnt hear that, you may want to make the type of singing explicit. Consider referring to your translation of the last word of verse 6 (to play in the ULT). Alternate translation: “the sound of playful singing I hear” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2077EXO3219hr2jfigs-idiomוַ⁠יִּֽחַר־אַ֣ף מֹשֶׁ֗ה1the tablets

This is an idiom for being angry. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “and Moses was very angry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2078EXO3219d8zoתַּ֥חַת1the tablets

Alternate translation: “at the bottom of”

2079EXO3221du5lfigs-quotesinquotesוַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר מֹשֶׁה֙ אֶֽל־אַהֲרֹ֔ן מֶֽה־עָשָׂ֥ה לְ⁠ךָ֖ הָ⁠עָ֣ם הַ⁠זֶּ֑ה כִּֽי־הֵבֵ֥אתָ עָלָ֖י⁠ו חֲטָאָ֥ה גְדֹלָֽה׃1Then Moses said to Aaron, “What did this people…a great sin on them?”

Moses question is a second-level quotation. 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. Alternate translation: “Then Moses asked Aaron what the people did to him, that he had brought such a great sin on them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

2080EXO3221np73figs-metaphorכִּֽי־הֵבֵ֥אתָ עָלָ֖י⁠ו חֲטָאָ֥ה גְדֹלָֽה1you 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: “that you have caused them to sin greatly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2081EXO3222z2chfigs-idiomאַל־יִ֥חַר אַ֖ף1Do not let your anger burn hot

This is an idiom for anger. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “Do not be angry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2082EXO3222vdy2figs-idiomכִּ֥י בְ⁠רָ֖ע הֽוּא1they are set on doing evil

This is probably an idiom that could mean (1) that the people are prone to evil or (2) that the people were in trouble (that is, they felt troubled because of not having contact with God). If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “that they are set on evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2083EXO3222h6dmfigs-123personהֽוּא1they are set on doing evil

Here, it is used because people is grammatically singular in Hebrew. Alternate translation: “they are” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

2084EXO3223w91dfigs-quotesinquotesעֲשֵׂה־לָ֣⁠נוּ אֱלֹהִ֔ים אֲשֶׁ֥ר יֵלְכ֖וּ לְ⁠פָנֵ֑י⁠נוּ כִּי־זֶ֣ה׀ מֹשֶׁ֣ה הָ⁠אִ֗ישׁ אֲשֶׁ֤ר הֶֽעֱלָ֨⁠נוּ֙ מֵ⁠אֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֔יִם לֹ֥א יָדַ֖עְנוּ מֶה־הָ֥יָה לֽ⁠וֹ׃1they are set on doing evil

This is a second-level quotation. 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. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

2085EXO3223zn68זֶ֣ה׀ מֹשֶׁ֣ה הָ⁠אִ֗ישׁ1this 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. They were creating social distance between him and themselves. When translating, use a form in your language that communicates the same sense of disassociation between people. See how you translated this in verse 1.

2086EXO3224yq7sfigs-quotesinquotesוָ⁠אֹמַ֤ר לָ⁠הֶם֙ לְ⁠מִ֣י זָהָ֔ב הִתְפָּרָ֖קוּ1So I said to them, Whoever has any gold, let him take it off.

Whoever has gold, take it off yourself is a second-level quotation. 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, 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-quotesinquotes]])

2087EXO3224yy82figs-rpronounsהִתְפָּרָ֖קוּ1So I said to them, Whoever has any gold, let him take it off.

Aaron instructs people to take their own gold off. Alternate translation: “you take off your own” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

2088EXO3224wvingrammar-connect-logic-resultוָ⁠אַשְׁלִכֵ֣⁠הוּ בָ⁠אֵ֔שׁ וַ⁠יֵּצֵ֖א הָ⁠עֵ֥גֶל הַ⁠זֶּֽה1So I said to them, Whoever has any gold, let him take it off.

Aaron claims an unusual sequence of events here. The translation should surprise an audience unfamiliar with the story. He states that the result of simply throwing gold in the fire is the apperance (by its own power or volition it seems) of the calf. This is a lie. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

2089EXO3225ck1fפָרֻ֖עַ1were running wild

Alternate translation: “were behaving wildly” or “were not controlling themselves”

2090EXO3225csg0grammar-collectivenounsכִּ֥י פָרֻ֖עַ ה֑וּא כִּֽי־פְרָעֹ֣⁠ה אַהֲרֹ֔ן1were running wild

Here, the pronoun it agrees with the grammatical number of people (singular). If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternate translation: “that they were let loose, for Aaron had let them loose” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

2091EXO3226jis7figs-quotationsוַ⁠יֹּ֕אמֶר מִ֥י לַ⁠יהוָ֖ה אֵלָ֑⁠י1Then Moses stood at the entrance…“Whoever is on Yahwehs side, come to me.”

If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “and said that whoever was for Yahweh should come to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

2092EXO3226ryb5figs-idiomמִ֥י לַ⁠יהוָ֖ה1Whoever is on Yahwehs side

Moses speaks of being loyal to Yahweh as being for Yahweh. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “Whoever serves Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2093EXO3227xsl3עִבְר֨וּ וָ⁠שׁ֜וּבוּ מִ⁠שַּׁ֤עַר לָ⁠שַׁ֨עַר֙ בַּֽ⁠מַּחֲנֶ֔ה1go back and forth from entrance to entrance

Alternate translation: “Go from one 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”

2094EXO3228at4itranslate-numbersכִּ⁠שְׁלֹ֥שֶׁת אַלְפֵ֖י1three thousand of the people

Alternate translation: “about three thousand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2095EXO3229to5dfigs-idiomמִלְא֨וּ יֶדְ⁠כֶ֤ם1You have been placed into Yahwehs service

This seems to be an idiom for giving authority to someone. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:41. However, this usage is different from that text, as here it is not specified what authority they are given or what they are consecrated for other than for Yahweh. Alternate translation: “Consecrate yourselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2096EXO3229rkp6מִלְא֨וּ יֶדְ⁠כֶ֤ם הַ⁠יּוֹם֙ לַֽ⁠יהוָ֔ה1You have been placed into Yahwehs service

Here it is unclear if fill should be rightly understood as in the past or as a new command. You may want to follow the decision of another translation your people are familiar with. Alternate translation: “You have filled your hand for Yahweh today”

2097EXO3229c6fgfigs-explicitכִּ֛י אִ֥ישׁ בִּ⁠בְנ֖⁠וֹ וּ⁠בְ⁠אָחִ֑י⁠ו1for each of you has taken action against his son and his brother

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express the fact that they did this in obedience to God explicitly. Alternate translation: “For you have obeyed Yahweh, because each man was against his son and against his brother” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2098EXO3229l54lוְ⁠לָ⁠תֵ֧ת עֲלֵי⁠כֶ֛ם הַ⁠יּ֖וֹם בְּרָכָֽה1for each of you has taken action against his son and his brother

This phrase is difficult to interpret. Several options depend on exactly how the conjunction, preposition, and verb combination are interpreted. The first difficulty is related to the difficulty with the previous verb: have they already been blessed or are they going to be blessed? (Alternate translation: “to have put a blessing on yourselves today”) The second difficulty is: should the clause connections be understood to say that the blessing is because of their actions, or more strongly, that a desire for blessing motivated them to take action? (Alternate translation: “and therefore a blessing is put on you today” or “so that a blessing may be put over you today”) The third difficulty is: while ultimately all blessing is from Yahweh, which is the subject here, Yahweh or the Levites? (Alternate translation: “and so Yahweh is putting a blessing on you today”) As with the previous clause, you may want to follow the decision of another translation your people are familiar with. Alternate translation: “, by that you brought blessing on yourselves”

2099EXO3230kvj4figs-doubletחֲטָאתֶ֖ם חֲטָאָ֣ה גְדֹלָ֑ה1You have committed a very great sin

Here, sin used as a verb and then repeated as a noun for emphasis. Along with great, it suggests that the people sinned very, very badly. If the repetition of words in this way would not create emphasis, use another form in your language that would. Alternate translation: “You have sinned extremally badly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

2100EXO3230r5fnfigs-abstractnounsחֲטָאתֶ֖ם חֲטָאָ֣ה גְדֹלָ֑ה1You have committed a very great sin

If your language does not use an abstract noun for sin, you could express the idea behind it in another way. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2101EXO3231ccpgfigs-doubletחָטָ֞א הָ⁠עָ֤ם הַ⁠זֶּה֙ חֲטָאָ֣ה1You have committed a very great sin

Here, sin is used as a verb and then repeated as a noun for emphasis. Along with great, it suggests that the people sinned very, very badly. If the repetition of words in this way would not create emphasis, use another form in your language that would. Alternate translation: “this people has sinned extremely badly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

2102EXO3231y049figs-abstractnounsחֲטָאָ֣ה1You have committed a very great sin

If your language does not use an abstract noun for sin, you could express the idea behind it in another way. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2103EXO3231yetaאֱלֹהֵ֥י1You have committed a very great sin

Alternate translation: “a god”

2104EXO3232brpufigs-ellipsisוְ⁠עַתָּ֖ה אִם־תִּשָּׂ֣א חַטָּאתָ֑⁠ם1blot me out of the book

Moses leaves out his conclusion, perhaps as a way of making this conditional phrase into a request, or perhaps to avoid suggesting to God what would be good for him to do. However, if leaving out a conclusion would be misunderstood in your language you may need to rephrase it or add the implied conclusion. Alternate translation: “But now, if you forgive their sin, good!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

2105EXO3232c72yfigs-metonymyמְחֵ֣⁠נִי1blot me out of the book

Here, me refers to the name of Moses. Alternate translation: “erase my name from” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2106EXO3232ahb3figs-explicitאֲשֶׁ֥ר כָּתָֽבְתָּ1the book that you have written

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express what God had written in the book explicitly. Alternate translation: “in which you have written the names of your people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2107EXO3233igb4figs-metonymyאֶמְחֶ֖⁠נּוּ מִ⁠סִּפְרִֽ⁠י1that person I will blot out of my book

Here, him represents that persons name. Alternate translation: “I will erase that persons name from my book” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2108EXO3233qwk9מִ⁠סִּפְרִֽ⁠י1my book

This refers to the book of Yahweh that Moses spoke of in Exodus 32:32.

2109EXO3234xn8pgrammar-connect-logic-resultוּ⁠בְ⁠י֣וֹם פָּקְדִ֔⁠י וּ⁠פָקַדְתִּ֥י עֲלֵי⁠הֶ֖ם חַטָּאתָֽ⁠ם1But on the day that I punish them, I will punish them

Yahweh makes it clear that he will punish the people because they sinned by making and worshiping the idol. If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: “However, because they sinned, one day I will come to punish them.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

2110EXO3235wv1vfigs-explicitעָשׂ֣וּ אֶת־הָ⁠עֵ֔גֶל אֲשֶׁ֥ר עָשָׂ֖ה אַהֲרֹֽן1they had made the calf, the one that Aaron made

The people are being spoken of as having made the calf themselves (along with Aaron) because they demanded it and gave their gold for it. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “they were guilty along with Aaron of making the calf” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2111EXO3235h3klgrammar-connect-logic-resultוַ⁠יִּגֹּ֥ף יְהוָ֖ה אֶת־הָ⁠עָ֑ם עַ֚ל אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָשׂ֣וּ אֶת־הָ⁠עֵ֔גֶל אֲשֶׁ֥ר עָשָׂ֖ה אַהֲרֹֽן1they had made the calf, the one that Aaron made

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: “And because they had made the calf (that Aaron made), Yahweh plagued the people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

2112EXO33introg5k30

Exodus 33 General Notes

This chapter is largely about Moses continuing to negotiate for a closer relationship between Yahweh and himself and Yahweh and the people. There are a number of important theological issues addressed, especially Yahwehs holiness and character. Several key terms appear.

Structure:

  • v. 1-6: Moses negotiating with Yahweh to go with Israel
  • v. 7-11: the temporary tent of meeting
  • v. 12-23: Moses negotiating with Yahweh to see his glory

Potential Translation Issues

Yahwehs statement to Moses in verse 5 seems to have happened before the peoples reaction in verse 4, so in some languages you may need to reverse them.

Verses 7-11 seem to be background, general information about a somewhat unspecified time period. Be sure this is clear in how you structure these verses. See the beginning of verse 7 in the UST. While the term in verses 7-11 is often used interchangeably with the Dwelling that will be built in chapters 35-39, it is a temporary and different tent. One distinguishing feature is that it is well outside the camp, while the Dwelling will be in the center of the camp.

The word tent in verses 7-11 refers either to this temporary “tent of meeting” that Moses set up or to the tents that the Israelites lived in. Pay attention throughout these verses to which tent is referred to.

2113EXO331p8xpfigs-quotesinquotesלֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר לְ⁠זַרְעֲ⁠ךָ֖ אֶתְּנֶֽ⁠נָּה1General Information:

The words which follow saying are a second-level quotation. 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. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]])

2114EXO332tlenוְ⁠שָׁלַחְתִּ֥י לְ⁠פָנֶ֖י⁠ךָ מַלְאָ֑ךְ וְ⁠גֵֽרַשְׁתִּ֗י אֶת־הַֽ⁠כְּנַעֲנִי֙ הָֽ⁠אֱמֹרִ֔י וְ⁠הַֽ⁠חִתִּי֙ וְ⁠הַ⁠פְּרִזִּ֔י הַ⁠חִוִּ֖י וְ⁠הַ⁠יְבוּסִֽי1General Information:

See how you translated these in Exodus 23:20 and 23:23.

2115EXO333yyt4figs-metonymyחָלָ֖ב וּ⁠דְבָ֑שׁ1that land, which is flowing with milk and honey

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 how you translated this in Exodus 3:8. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2116EXO333y347figs-metaphorזָבַ֥ת חָלָ֖ב וּ⁠דְבָ֑שׁ1flowing with

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. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2117EXO333ah5tfigs-metaphorקְשֵׁה־עֹ֨רֶף֙1a stubborn people

Yahweh speaks of the people being rebellious as if they had hard necks. See how you translated this in Exodus 32:9. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2118EXO334jemjfigs-gendernotationsוְ⁠לֹא־שָׁ֛תוּ אִ֥ישׁ עֶדְי֖⁠וֹ עָלָֽי⁠ו1jewelry

Here, his and him refer to both men and women. Alternate translation: “and the men and women did not put on their ornaments” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

2119EXO334cf7gtranslate-unknownעֶדְי֖⁠וֹ1jewelry

This may have referred to beautiful clothing as well as chains and rings made from gold or silver that had could have had jewels in them. Alternate translation: “his adornments” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

2120EXO334qwuutranslate-versebridge0jewelry

Yahwehs statement to Moses in verse 5 seems to have happened before the peoples reaction in verse 4, so in some languages you may need to reverse them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-versebridge]])

2121EXO335rn40figs-eventsוַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר יְהוָ֜ה1jewelry

The word had places Yahwehs statement back in time. It can be understood from context as Yahwehs statement to Moses in verse 5 seems to have happened before the peoples reaction in verse 4. If you are reversing the order of the verses for your language, you should adjust the verbal sequencing in your translation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-events]])

2122EXO335ndhxfigs-quotationsאֱמֹ֤ר אֶל־בְּנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵל֙1jewelry

You may want to make the introductory portion of this quotation,Say to the sons of Israel, indirect to keep from having a quote inside a quote. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

2123EXO335rzr5figs-metaphorקְשֵׁה־עֹ֔רֶף1a stubborn people

Yahweh speaks of the people being rebellious as if they had hard necks. See how you translated this in Exodus 32:9. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2124EXO335hakpgrammar-connect-condition-hypotheticalרֶ֧גַע אֶחָ֛ד אֶֽעֱלֶ֥ה בְ⁠קִרְבְּ⁠ךָ֖ וְ⁠כִלִּיתִ֑י⁠ךָ וְ⁠עַתָּ֗ה1a stubborn people

Because the surrounding narrative clearly shows that this is not what Yahweh did or will do, this is a hypothetical situation. Some languages may need to reorder the clauses. Alternate translation: “Since I would destroy if I went up among you for one moment, then” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]])

2125EXO335l6axgrammar-connect-logic-goalוְ⁠עַתָּ֗ה הוֹרֵ֤ד עֶדְיְ⁠ךָ֙ מֵֽ⁠עָלֶ֔י⁠ךָ וְ⁠אֵדְעָ֖ה מָ֥ה אֶֽעֱשֶׂה־לָּֽ⁠ךְ1a stubborn people

The goal of the Israelites removing their ornaments is so that Yahweh can consider his reaction. Some languages may need to reorder this structure. Alternate translation: “So that I will know what I will do to you, take your ornaments down from on you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])

2126EXO335gb16figs-explicitוְ⁠עַתָּ֗ה הוֹרֵ֤ד עֶדְיְ⁠ךָ֙ מֵֽ⁠עָלֶ֔י⁠ךָ1a stubborn people

This was a way for the Israelites to show that they were sorry for sinning. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2127EXO336tomyfigs-rpronounsוַ⁠יִּֽתְנַצְּל֧וּ1a stubborn people

Here, themselves refers to the Israelites; they are both the ones doing the action and the ones to whom the action is done. A special form of verb or pronoun may be required to translate this in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

2128EXO336i0c5figs-explicitמֵ⁠הַ֥ר חוֹרֵֽב׃1a stubborn people

Here, from means “from that point of time and continuing into the future.” Try to find a form in your language that means “from then on” for your translation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2129EXO337wsfegrammar-connect-time-background0a stubborn people

Verses 7-11 seem to be background, general information about a somewhat unspecified time period. Be sure this is clear in how you structure these verses. See the beginning of verse 7 in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background]])

2130EXO337fb65הָ⁠אֹ֜הֶל1a stubborn people

The word tent in verses 7-11 refers either to this temporary “tent of meeting” that Moses set up, or to the tents that the Israelites lived in. Pay attention throughout these verses to which tent is being referenced. Here it refers to the “tent of meeting.”

2131EXO338h2usאָהֳל֑⁠וֹ1a stubborn people

This refers to the peoples tents.

2132EXO339yt4fעַמּ֣וּד הֶֽ⁠עָנָ֔ן1the pillar of cloud

See how you translated this in 13:21.

2133EXO339vam7figs-explicitיֵרֵד֙1would come down

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express where the pillar of cloud would come down from explicitly. Alternate translation: “would come down from the sky” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2134EXO339ghf8figs-metonymyוְ⁠דִבֶּ֖ר1would come down

Grammatically, the most likely referent for this pronoun is the pillar of cloud. By metonymy and based on verse 11, this probably refers to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2135EXO3310nyoefigs-parallelismוְ⁠רָאָ֤ה כָל־הָ⁠עָם֙ אֶת־עַמּ֣וּד הֶֽ⁠עָנָ֔ן עֹמֵ֖ד פֶּ֣תַח הָ⁠אֹ֑הֶל וְ⁠קָ֤ם כָּל־הָ⁠עָם֙ וְ⁠הִֽשְׁתַּחֲוּ֔וּ אִ֖ישׁ פֶּ֥תַח אָהֳלֽ⁠וֹ1Yahweh would speak to Moses face to face

This verse uses contrastive parallelism. The presence of Yahweh is represented in the cloud that stands at the entrance of the tent, while the people prostrate themselves at the entrance to their tents. It would be good to try to retain the contrasting image in your translation if possible. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

2136EXO3310zvafעַמּ֣וּד הֶֽ⁠עָנָ֔ן1Yahweh would speak to Moses face to face

See how you translated this in 13:21.

2137EXO3310dm01אָהֳלֽ⁠וֹ1Yahweh would speak to Moses face to face

This refers to the peoples tents.

2138EXO3311zrb8figs-metaphorפָּנִ֣ים אֶל־פָּנִ֔ים1Yahweh would speak to Moses face to face

Speaking directly to each other rather than through dreams and visions is spoken of as if Moses and God saw each others faces while they spoke. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “Yahweh would speak directly to Moses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2139EXO3311lqe0figs-simileכַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֛ר יְדַבֵּ֥ר אִ֖ישׁ אֶל־רֵעֵ֑⁠הוּ1Yahweh would speak to Moses face to face

The metaphor of speaking face to face is explained by the simile here. How you translated face to face in your language may determine how you should translate this explanation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

2140EXO3311rcsuwriting-participantsוּ⁠מְשָׁ֨רְת֜⁠וֹ יְהוֹשֻׁ֤עַ בִּן־נוּן֙ נַ֔עַר1Yahweh would speak to Moses face to face

Joshua has been introduced before but not mentioned since Exodus 32:17. Consider if your language will need to re-introduce Joshua in any way here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

2141EXO3312ohrawriting-newevent0See

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]])

2142EXO3312hlslfigs-quotationsהַ֚עַל אֶת־הָ⁠עָ֣ם הַ⁠זֶּ֔ה…דַעְתִּ֣י⁠ךָֽ בְ⁠שֵׁ֔ם וְ⁠גַם־מָצָ֥אתָ חֵ֖ן בְּ⁠עֵינָֽ⁠י1See

You may want to make these two second-level quotations indirect to reduce the levels of quotation. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

2143EXO3312unz8רְ֠אֵה1See

This is an interjection to get someones attention. Alternate translation: “Look!” or “Listen!” or “Pay attention to what I am about to tell you”

2144EXO3312w7fsfigs-idiomיְדַעְתִּ֣י⁠ךָֽ בְ⁠שֵׁ֔ם1I know you by name

To know someone by name is to know them well. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “I know you well” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2145EXO3312uhjsfigs-activepassiveוְ⁠גַם־מָצָ֥אתָ חֵ֖ן בְּ⁠עֵינָֽ⁠י1you have also found favor in my eyes

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and my eyes find you favorable” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2146EXO3312a7jrfigs-idiomוְ⁠גַם־מָצָ֥אתָ חֵ֖ן בְּ⁠עֵינָֽ⁠י1you have also found favor in my eyes

Here, found favor in my eyes is an idiom that means “I am pleased with you” so it means that God is pleased with Moses. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “and you please me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2147EXO3312y281figs-metaphorוְ⁠גַם־מָצָ֥אתָ חֵ֖ן בְּ⁠עֵינָֽ⁠י1you have also found favor in my eyes

Here, in my eyes is a metaphor representing Gods evaluation. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “and you have also found favor in my evaluation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2148EXO3312es6zfigs-abstractnounsוְ⁠גַם־מָצָ֥אתָ חֵ֖ן בְּ⁠עֵינָֽ⁠י1you have also found favor in my eyes

Here, favor is an abstract noun that you could express in another way if necessary in your language. Alternate translation: “and you have also been found approved in my eyes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2149EXO3313e6vvמָצָ֨אתִי חֵ֜ן בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֗י⁠ךָ…אֶמְצָא־חֵ֖ן בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֑י⁠ךָ1Now if I have found favor in your eyes

Here, found favor in your eyes is an idiom that means that God is pleased with Moses. You may also need to make the phrase active in form and change the abstract noun favor into another form. Finally, in your eyes is a metaphor representing his evaluation. See how you dealt with the multiple issues in the phrase you have found favor in my eyes in Exodus 33:12.

2150EXO3313zi7jfigs-metaphorהוֹדִעֵ֤⁠נִי נָא֙ אֶת־דְּרָכֶ֔⁠ךָ1show me your ways

Here, ways is a metaphor either: (1) for Yahwehs plans or (2) for the holy life he requires. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: (1) “please cause me to know what you are going to do in the future” (2) “please cause me to know how people can do what pleases you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2151EXO3313gtv4אֶמְצָא־חֵ֖ן בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֑י⁠ךָ1show me your ways

This instance of the phrase find favor in your eyes means in the future. Consider how to translate it in your language to convey an on-going situation. Alternate translation: “I can always find favor in your eyes”

2152EXO3313o1ewוּ⁠רְאֵ֕ה כִּ֥י עַמְּ⁠ךָ֖ הַ⁠גּ֥וֹי הַ⁠זֶּֽה׃1show me your ways

Moses is requesting that Yahweh would again see, perceive, consider, or recognize the Israelites as his special people. In this way, Moses would know that Yahweh had truly forgiven them.

2153EXO3314gh8qfigs-metonymyפָּנַ֥⁠י יֵלֵ֖כוּ1My own presence will go

Yahwehs face represents his presence, which represents himself. Alternate translation: “I will go” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2154EXO3314esddfigs-explicitפָּנַ֥⁠י יֵלֵ֖כוּ וַ⁠הֲנִחֹ֥תִי לָֽ⁠ךְ1My own presence will go

The preposition connected to you here has a very flexible meaning and seems to be connected to both will go and will cause rest. If this would be unclear, consider repeating it in both clauses. Alternate translation: “My face will go with you and I will cause rest for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2155EXO3314hl15figs-yousingularלָֽ⁠ךְ1go with you…give you

The word you here refers to Moses. It is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])

2156EXO3315a2hcgrammar-connect-condition-hypotheticalאִם־אֵ֤ין פָּנֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ הֹלְכִ֔ים1go with you…give you

If your face is not going is a hypothetical situation in which Moses makes a request that they not go anywhere without Yahweh. In some languages you may need to place the request first. Alternate translation: “Do not take us up from here if your face is not going” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]])

2157EXO3315m5cqfigs-metonymyאִם־אֵ֤ין פָּנֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ הֹלְכִ֔ים1go with you…give you

Yahwehs face represents his presence, which represents himself. Alternate translation: “If you are not going” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2158EXO3316cgl8figs-rquestionוּ⁠בַ⁠מֶּ֣ה׀ יִוָּדַ֣ע אֵפ֗וֹא כִּֽי־מָצָ֨אתִי חֵ֤ן בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ אֲנִ֣י וְ⁠עַמֶּ֔⁠ךָ הֲ⁠ל֖וֹא בְּ⁠לֶכְתְּ⁠ךָ֣ עִמָּ֑⁠נוּ וְ⁠נִפְלֵ֨ינוּ֙ אֲנִ֣י וְ⁠עַמְּ⁠ךָ֔ מִ⁠כָּ֨ל־הָ⁠עָ֔ם אֲשֶׁ֖ר עַל־פְּנֵ֥י הָ⁠אֲדָמָֽה1how will it be known…people?

This verse contains two or three rhetorical questions, and the length of the second is debated. The first rhetorical question, “And in what then will it be known that I have found favor in your eyes, I and your people?” is used for emphasis and means, “There is only one way people will know that I and your people please you.” The second, “Is it not in your going with us?” is used to answer the first question and means “That way is your going with us.” It is possible that the rest of the verse is (1) a statement further clarifying how Yahwehs favor is demonstrated (ULT, UST), (2) an extension of the second rhetorical question (“Is it not in your going with us so that I and your people shall be distinct from all of the people that are on the face of the earth?”), or (3) a separate rhetorical question making the same point (“And shall I and your people be distinct from all of the people that are on the face of the earth?”) Moses used these questions in order to emphasize that if Yahweh does not go with them, no one will know that Yahweh is pleased with Moses and the people. Use whatever forms would be natural in your language to present an argument like this. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

2159EXO3316d36kfigs-infostructureוּ⁠בַ⁠מֶּ֣ה1For otherwise

This refers back to Moses hypothetical situation in the previous verse, that is, Yahweh not going with them. Use whatever connecting forms are necessary to make that clear. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])

2160EXO3316tu8efigs-activepassiveוּ⁠בַ⁠מֶּ֣ה׀ יִוָּדַ֣ע אֵפ֗וֹא1how will it be known

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “And in what then will people know” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2161EXO3316u82afigs-idiomמָצָ֨אתִי חֵ֤ן בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙1Will it not only be if

Here, found favor is an idiom that means that God is pleased with Moses. You may also need to make the phrase active in form and change the abstract noun favor into another form. Finally, eyes are a metonym for sight, and sight is a metaphor representing his evaluation. See how you dealt with the multiple issues in the phrase you have found favor in my eyes in Exodus 33:12. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2162EXO3317chuagrammar-connect-logic-resultגַּ֣ם אֶת־הַ⁠דָּבָ֥ר הַ⁠זֶּ֛ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר דִּבַּ֖רְתָּ אֶֽעֱשֶׂ֑ה כִּֽי־מָצָ֤אתָ חֵן֙ בְּ⁠עֵינַ֔⁠י וָ⁠אֵדָעֲ⁠ךָ֖ בְּ⁠שֵֽׁם1you have found favor in my eyes

Here, for signals a reason clause. If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: “Because you have found favor in my eyes, and I know you by name, I will also do this thing that you have spoken” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

2163EXO3317ln7yfigs-idiomמָצָ֤אתָ חֵן֙ בְּ⁠עֵינַ֔⁠י1you have found favor in my eyes

Here, you have found favor in my eyes is an idiom that means that God is pleased with Moses. You may also need to make the phrase active in form and change the abstract noun favor into another form. Finally, eyes are a metonym for sight, and sight is a metaphor representing his evaluation. See how you dealt with the multiple issues in the phrase you have found favor in my eyes in Exodus 33:12. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2164EXO3317aln2figs-yousingularמָצָ֤אתָ1General Information:

Here, you is singular and refers to Moses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])

2165EXO3317u2nvfigs-idiomוָ⁠אֵדָעֲ⁠ךָ֖ בְּ⁠שֵֽׁם1I 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: “and I know you well” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2166EXO3318w73vfigs-abstractnounsכְּבֹדֶֽ⁠ךָ1I know you by name

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of glory, you could express the same idea in another way. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2167EXO3319sx1afigs-metaphorאֲנִ֨י אַעֲבִ֤יר כָּל־טוּבִ⁠י֙ עַל־פָּנֶ֔י⁠ךָ1I will make all my goodness pass before you

Yahweh speaks of his goodness like it was an object that he could move over Moses. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2168EXO3319e3o3figs-abstractnounsטוּבִ⁠י֙1I will make all my goodness pass before you

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of goodness, you could express the same idea in another way. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2169EXO3319gzr5figs-metonymyעַל־פָּנֶ֔י⁠ךָ…לְ⁠פָנֶ֑י⁠ךָ1I will make all my goodness pass before you

Here, face means “you.” Alternate translation: “above you … before you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2170EXO3319d4z9וְ⁠קָרָ֧אתִֽי בְ⁠שֵׁ֛ם יְהוָ֖ה1I will make all my goodness pass before you

The meaning of the phrase is unclear. It may mean that Yahweh will disclose something about his character to Moses. Alternate translation: “and I will proclaim my name, Yahweh,

2171EXO3319vqq6figs-parallelismוְ⁠חַנֹּתִי֙ אֶת־אֲשֶׁ֣ר אָחֹ֔ן וְ⁠רִחַמְתִּ֖י אֶת־אֲשֶׁ֥ר אֲרַחֵֽם1I will make all my goodness pass before you

These statements use parallelism internally and between each other. They stress Yahwehs divine prerogative to do whatever he wants. The structure also parallels Yahwehs I AM statements in Exodus 3:14. If this form of parallelism would be misunderstood in your language, consider another form that emphasizes that Yahweh is graciously kind to exactly those and only those to whom he chooses to show kindness, and he does so without outside influence. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

2172EXO3320c20qwriting-quotationsוַ⁠יֹּ֕אמֶר1I will make all my goodness pass before you

In some languages it may be better to omit And he said at the start of this verse to avoid stopping and restarting the quotation. Yahweh is speaking from 33:19-34:3. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])

2173EXO3320fyc0כִּ֛י לֹֽא־יִרְאַ֥⁠נִי הָ⁠אָדָ֖ם וָ⁠חָֽי1I will make all my goodness pass before you

Alternate translation: “because no person can live after he has seen me”

2174EXO3321loepwriting-quotationsוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָ֔ה1I will make all my goodness pass before you

In some languages it may be better to omit And Yahweh said at the start of this verse to avoid stopping and restarting the quotation. Yahweh is speaking from 33:19-34:3. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])

2175EXO3321s4iyהִנֵּ֥ה1See

Alternate translation: “Look” or “Listen” or “Pay attention to what I am about to tell you.”

2176EXO3322qhe6figs-metaphorבַּ⁠עֲבֹ֣ר כְּבֹדִ֔⁠י1See

Yahweh speaks of his glory as if it were an object that he could move over Moses. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “while I pass over gloriously” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2177EXO3322o5asfigs-abstractnounsכְּבֹדִ֔⁠י1See

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of glory, you could express the same idea in another way. See the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2178EXO3322ivf5figs-personificationוְ⁠שַׂכֹּתִ֥י כַפִּ֛⁠י עָלֶ֖י⁠ךָ1See

Here Yahweh speaks as if he, like a person, had hands that could cover things. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use a simile to retain the image, as this figure is important to retain and extends into the next verse. Alternate translation: “I will cover you as with a hand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

2179EXO3323fmu8figs-personificationוַ⁠הֲסִרֹתִי֙ אֶת־כַּפִּ֔⁠י וְ⁠רָאִ֖יתָ אֶת־אֲחֹרָ֑⁠י וּ⁠פָנַ֖⁠י לֹ֥א יֵרָאֽוּ1you will see my back

The strong personification image of Yahweh continues throughout this verse and should be retained, if possible. You may have to use similes if this would be misunderstood in your culture. Alternate translation: “Then it will be as if I stop covering you with a hand, and you will see a small part of my glory, like a persons back, but not my full glory, like a persons face.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

2180EXO3323jq7tgrammar-connect-logic-contrastוּ⁠פָנַ֖⁠י1you will see my back

Here, but my face is moved to the front of the clause to emphasize contrast with my back. If your language has a certain way of contrasting elements, be sure to make a strong contrast between Yahwehs face and back. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

2181EXO3323gw1nfigs-activepassiveוּ⁠פָנַ֖⁠י לֹ֥א יֵרָאֽוּ1but my face will not be seen

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “but you will not see my face” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2182EXO34introsmp60

Exodus 34 General Notes

Outline

  • v. 1-4 Yahweh orders Moses to return to the mountain
  • v. 5-9 Yahweh reveals himself to Moses and Moses reacts
  • v. 10-28 Covenant renewal
  • v. 29-34 Moses reports to Israel

Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

  • In verse 1, Yahweh says he will write on stone tablets, yet later (v. 27-28) he commands Moses to write and the text says Moses writes.
  • Yahweh reveals something significant about himself or his character to Moses. There are a number of difficult terms and concepts.
  • The biblical metaphor of true worship as sexual fidelity appears in v. 14-16.
  • Several verses are repeated either exactly or closely from earlier chapters.
  • In v. 12-26 Yahweh appears to give a different 10 commandments from those in Exodus 20 (but also largely repeated from other earlier parts of Exodus), raising the question of what was actually written on the stone tablets in v. 28.
  • The concept of Mosess shining face may be difficult in some cultures.

“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]])

2183EXO341ppywwriting-quotationsוַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר יְהוָה֙ אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֔ה1tablets of stone

Yahweh continues to speak to Moses, but there is a change of topic here, so you may want to retain the speech introduction. However, if it would be misunderstood, you could simply continue the quotation from the previous verse. Alternate translation: “Yahweh continued” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])

2184EXO341zf77figs-infostructureאֲשֶׁ֥ר שִׁבַּֽרְתָּ1tablets of stone

This clause reminds the reader of what tablets are being mentioned by reminding you of what had happened to the previous tablets. If it would be more helpful in your language to attach it to the first mention of the tablets in this verse, you could rearrange it like the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])

2185EXO341s1kvלֻחֹ֥ת אֲבָנִ֖ים1tablets of stone

Alternate translation: “flat slabs of stone” See how you translated this in Exodus 31:18

2186EXO343ck6dfigs-metonymyוְ⁠גַם־אִ֥ישׁ אַל־יֵרָ֖א בְּ⁠כָל־הָ⁠הָ֑ר1Do not let anyone else be seen anywhere on the mountain

Being seen doing something represents doing that. Alternate translation: “and do not let anyone else be anywhere on the mountain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2187EXO343x3rxגַּם־הַ⁠צֹּ֤אן וְ⁠הַ⁠בָּקָר֙ אַל־יִרְע֔וּ אֶל־מ֖וּל הָ⁠הָ֥ר הַ⁠הֽוּא1No flocks or herds are even to graze in front of the mountain

Alternate translation: “Even flocks or herds are not allowed to come near the mountain to eat.”

2188EXO345sp7fwriting-pronounsוַ⁠יִּתְיַצֵּ֥ב עִמּ֖⁠וֹ שָׁ֑ם וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֥א1stood with Moses there

The pronouns are not clear here, but the referents are probably as in the following alternate translation: “and Yahweh stood with Moses there, and Yahweh proclaimed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

2189EXO345r9eyfigs-metonymyוַ⁠יִּקְרָ֥א בְ⁠שֵׁ֖ם יְהוָֽה1he pronounced the name “Yahweh.”

This could mean: (1) “he spoke the name Yahweh” (2) “he proclaimed who Yahweh is.” For the second meaning, name would represent who God is. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2190EXO346fz1qfigs-123personיְהוָ֣ה׀ יְהוָ֔ה אֵ֥ל רַח֖וּם וְ⁠חַנּ֑וּן1Yahweh, Yahweh, God is merciful and gracious

God is speaking about himself. If this is confusing in your language, you may use the first person. Alternate translation: “I, Yahweh, am God, and I am merciful and gracious” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

2191EXO346t0kdfigs-doubletרַח֖וּם וְ⁠חַנּ֑וּן1Yahweh, Yahweh, God is merciful and gracious

This is emphasizing that Yahweh cares for people and acts kindly toward them. If doubling would not strengthen the statement here in your language, consider another form that would. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

2192EXO346f7iqfigs-idiomאֶ֥רֶךְ אַפַּ֖יִם1Yahweh, Yahweh, God is merciful and gracious

The phrase long of nostril is an idiom that means Yahweh does not get angry easily or quickly. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “slow to anger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2193EXO346j7wefigs-abstractnounsוְ⁠רַב־חֶ֥סֶד וֶ⁠אֱמֶֽת1abounding in covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness, you could express the same idea in another way. (For covenant faithfulness, see Exodus 20:6). Alternate translation: “always being faithful to my covenant and always being trustworthy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2194EXO346d1qjfigs-doubletחֶ֥סֶד וֶ⁠אֱמֶֽת1abounding in covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness

This is emphasizing that Yahweh always does what he promises toward the people he loves. If doubling would not strengthen the statement here in your language, consider another form that would. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

2195EXO347lt2jfigs-abstractnounsנֹצֵ֥ר חֶ֨סֶד֙ לָ⁠אֲלָפִ֔ים1keeping covenant faithfulness for thousands of generations

See how you translated covenant faithfulnessin the previous verse. Alternate translation: “faithfully loving thousands of generations” or “faithful to his covenant with thousands of generations” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2196EXO347x90lfigs-hyperboleלָ⁠אֲלָפִ֔ים1But he will

This large number is used to mean “forever” or “to all descendants forever.” It is deliberately contrasted with third and fourth later in the verse to emphasize how much longer Gods covenant faithfulness is than his anger. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that conveys a very long time. Alternate translation: “for every generation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

2197EXO347dxkbfigs-metonymyלָ⁠אֲלָפִ֔ים1But he will

The word thousands is a metonym for a number too many to count. Alternate translation: “to innumerable people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2198EXO347hlltfigs-litanyעָוֺ֛ן וָ⁠פֶ֖שַׁע וְ⁠חַטָּאָ֑ה1But he will

This list is meant to convey the idea of every kind of wrong. If a list like this would be misunderstood in your language you may need to use other terms or forms to make this point. Alternate translation: “every kind of sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])

2199EXO347e2qcfigs-abstractnounsעָוֺ֛ן וָ⁠פֶ֖שַׁע וְ⁠חַטָּאָ֑ה…עֲוֺ֣ן1But he will

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of iniquity, transgression, and sin, you could express the same ideas in another way., as modeled in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2200EXO347x397figs-123personוְ⁠נַקֵּה֙ לֹ֣א יְנַקֶּ֔ה1he will by no means clear the guilty

Yahweh is speaking about himself. If this is confusing in your language, you may use the first person. Alternate translation: “But I will certainly not acquit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

2201EXO347ts1bfigs-ellipsisוְ⁠נַקֵּה֙ לֹ֣א יְנַקֶּ֔ה1will by no means clear the guilty

Whom Yahweh will not acquit is not stated. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translations: “But he will certainly not clear the guilty” or “But he will certainly not say that the guilty are innocent” or “But he will certainly not free guilty people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

2202EXO347lyrgfigs-metonymyעֲוֺ֣ן1will by no means clear the guilty

Here, iniquity refers to the consequences or the punishment for iniquity. Alternate translation: “the punishment for the iniquity of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2203EXO347px85figs-metaphorפֹּקֵ֣ד׀ עֲוֺ֣ן אָב֗וֹת עַל־בָּנִים֙ וְ⁠עַל־בְּנֵ֣י בָנִ֔ים1He will bring the punishment for the fathers sin on their children

The iniquity of the fathers is spoken of as if it were something capable of visiting people. This means that Yahweh makes the consequences of peoples sins affect their descendants. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “punishing the sons and the sons of the sons for the iniquity of the fathers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2204EXO347c3tbfigs-metonymyעַל־בָּנִים֙ וְ⁠עַל־בְּנֵ֣י בָנִ֔ים1their children

The references to sons and sons of the sons represents descendants. Alternate translation: “on their descendants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2205EXO347d462figs-explicitעַל־שִׁלֵּשִׁ֖ים וְ⁠עַל־רִבֵּעִֽים1their children

Here, “generation” is implied after third and fourth. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2206EXO347pacufigs-metonymyעַל־שִׁלֵּשִׁ֖ים וְ⁠עַל־רִבֵּעִֽים1their children

Here, third and fourth means “several.” If this would not be understood and your language has a way of referring to an unspecified (but approximately 3-4) number, you may have to use it here. Alternate translation: “on a few generations” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2207EXO348c1qtfigs-rpronounsוַ⁠יִּשְׁתָּֽחוּ1their children

Here, himself means that Moses did this action to his own body. Some languages may use a special form to indicate this. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

2208EXO348mf8ofigs-doubletוַ⁠יִּקֹּ֥ד אַ֖רְצָ⁠ה וַ⁠יִּשְׁתָּֽחוּ1their children

These two verbs have very similar meanings and are often used together to express peoples physical and spiritual posture in worship. If such repetition would be misunderstood in your language, you may need to express the physical action and spiritual action explicitly. Alternate translation: “and bowed to the ground in worship” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

2209EXO349mh3afigs-idiomמָצָ֨אתִי חֵ֤ן בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙1If now I have found favor in your eyes

Here, found favor is an idiom that means that God is pleased with Moses. You may also need to make the phrase active in form and change the abstract noun favor into another form. Finally, eyes are a metonym for sight, and sight is a metaphor representing his evaluation. See how you dealt with the multiple issues in the phrase I have found favor in your eyes in Exodus 33:12. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2210EXO349vhu5figs-metaphorעַם־קְשֵׁה־עֹ֨רֶף֙ ה֔וּא1If now I have found favor in your eyes

Moses speaks of the people being rebellious as if they had hard necks. See how you translated this in Exodus 32:9. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2211EXO349hw66figs-doubletלַ⁠עֲוֺנֵ֥⁠נוּ וּ⁠לְ⁠חַטָּאתֵ֖⁠נוּ1our iniquity and our sin

The words iniquity and sin mean basically the same thing and are combined for emphasis. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “all our sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

2212EXO3410zwsm0your people

Starting in this verse, the covenant is largely repeated and consists of two parts: (1) what Yahweh will do, which is detailed in verses 10-11 (and briefly restated in verse 24) and (2) what is required of the Israelites, which is detailed in verses 12-26. For further context, see Exodus 19:5 and following, and 23:20-24:8. Verses 12-26 are another list of ten commandments.

2213EXO3410ps7ofigs-idiomכֹּרֵ֣ת בְּרִית֒1your people

To cut a covenant means to make a covenant. The terminology refers to ancient rituals around making covenants, which is illustrated in Genesis 15. See the imagery and how you translated there. Alternate translation: “am about to make a covenant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2214EXO3410zdq6figs-possessionעַמְּ⁠ךָ֙1your people

Here, the people are referred to as belonging to Moses. This refers to his being their leader. Alternate translation: ”the people you lead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

2215EXO3410itdxכָל־הָ֠⁠עָם אֲשֶׁר־אַתָּ֨ה בְ⁠קִרְבּ֜⁠וֹ1your people

This phrase is ambiguous and could refer to: (1) the nations that surrounded Israel or (2) the Israelites (who surrounded Moses). Attempt to maintain the ambiguity if you can; otherwise you may choose one, perhaps following another locally known translations choice.

2216EXO3410bj1aכִּֽי־נוֹרָ֣א ה֔וּא אֲשֶׁ֥ר אֲנִ֖י עֹשֶׂ֥ה עִמָּֽ⁠ךְ1it is a fearful thing that I am doing with you

This means that what Yahweh is doing causes people to be afraid. In this case, people will fear Yahweh when they see what he does. Alternate translation: “for what I am doing with you will cause fear”

2217EXO3410s7uzfigs-youdualעִמָּֽ⁠ךְ1I am doing with you

Here, you refers to Moses and the people of Israel. If your language makes a distinction, use a plural form here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual]])

2218EXO3411xtkffigs-metonymyגֹרֵ֣שׁ מִ⁠פָּנֶ֗י⁠ךָ1I am doing with you

Here, from before your faces means “ahead of you” or “on your behalf.” Yahweh is emphasizing who is doing the driving out. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2219EXO3411kfixtranslate-namesאֶת־הָ⁠אֱמֹרִי֙ וְ⁠הַֽ⁠כְּנַעֲנִ֔י וְ⁠הַ⁠חִתִּי֙ וְ⁠הַ⁠פְּרִזִּ֔י וְ⁠הַ⁠חִוִּ֖י וְ⁠הַ⁠יְבוּסִֽי1I am doing with you

See how you translated these in Exodus 33:2. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2220EXO3412fmc90General Information:

Verses 12-16 are the first of these ten commandments. The original language is structured such that every clause in these verses is subordinate to the initial, Guard yourself. That sort of structure may not be possible in your language (as it is not in English).

2221EXO3412mnpvfigs-rpronounsלְ⁠ךָ֗1General Information:

Here, yourself means that each Israelite should guard against committing these sins. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

2222EXO3412n1ilfigs-hypoפֶּן־תִּכְרֹ֤ת בְּרִית֙ לְ⁠יוֹשֵׁ֣ב הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ אֲשֶׁ֥ר אַתָּ֖ה בָּ֣א עָלֶ֑י⁠הָ פֶּן־יִהְיֶ֥ה לְ⁠מוֹקֵ֖שׁ בְּ⁠קִרְבֶּֽ⁠ךָ1General Information:

This sentence contains two hypotheticals as a warning. Each is introduced by lest. Use a marker in your language that introduces a hypothetical situation, but also see the next note. Alternate translation: “If you were to cut a covenant with the inhabitant of the land where you are about to go into, probably he would become as a trap in your midst.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])

2223EXO3412t1hzgrammar-connect-condition-hypotheticalפֶּן־תִּכְרֹ֤ת בְּרִית֙ לְ⁠יוֹשֵׁ֣ב הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ אֲשֶׁ֥ר אַתָּ֖ה בָּ֣א עָלֶ֑י⁠הָ פֶּן־יִהְיֶ֥ה לְ⁠מוֹקֵ֖שׁ בְּ⁠קִרְבֶּֽ⁠ךָ1General Information:

The second of these hypothetical statements is logically dependent on and follows after the first as a result. As you mark these hypotheticals, use a form that communicates that the second is a result of the first. Alternate translation: “because if you cut a covenant with the inhabitant of the land where you are about to go into, then he will become as a trap in your midst” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]])

2224EXO3412b459figs-idiomתִּכְרֹ֤ת בְּרִית֙1General Information:

See how you translated this in 34:10. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2225EXO3412tnkagrammar-collectivenounsלְ⁠יוֹשֵׁ֣ב…יִהְיֶ֥ה1General Information:

The word inhabitant is a singular noun that refers to any individual inhabitant or group of inhabitants from the peoples mentioned in the previous verse. The pronoun he is agreeing with that singular noun. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternate translation: “with the inhabitants of … they become” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

2226EXO3412lxz8figs-simileפֶּן־יִהְיֶ֥ה לְ⁠מוֹקֵ֖שׁ בְּ⁠קִרְבֶּֽ⁠ךָ1they will become a trap among you

People who tempt others to sin are spoken of as if they were a trap. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent comparison or express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “lest those remaining people tempt you to sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

2227EXO3413wkbxgrammar-connect-logic-contrastכִּ֤י1they will become a trap among you

This word marks a strong contrast with the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a strong contrast. Alternate translation, followed by a new sentence: “Do the opposite!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

2228EXO3413tfd1figs-infostructureאֶת־מִזְבְּחֹתָ⁠ם֙ תִּתֹּצ֔וּ⁠ן וְ⁠אֶת־מַצֵּבֹתָ֖⁠ם תְּשַׁבֵּר֑וּ⁠ן וְ⁠אֶת־אֲשֵׁרָ֖י⁠ו תִּכְרֹתֽוּ⁠ן1they will become a trap among you

This unusual word order reflects the original in bringing each item the Israelites must destroy into focus. You should use whatever form in your language would emphasize or focus on each item that they must destroy. Alternate translation, as separate sentences: “as for their altars, break them down! As for their stone pillars, smash them to pieces! As for their trees where they worship the goddess Asherah, cut them all down!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])

2229EXO3413gbp0grammar-collectivenounsתִּכְרֹתֽוּ⁠ן1they will become a trap among you

For some reason only this pronoun is singular, referring back the singular “inhabitant” in the previous verse. Translate it based on your decision in the previous verse. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

2230EXO3414fzjztranslate-symactionלֹ֥א תִֽשְׁתַּחֲוֶ֖ה1Yahweh, whose name is Jealous

To bow to another god means to worship it. This imagery is throughout scripture and should be retained in translation. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “you shall not bow to worship” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

2231EXO3414vmx2figs-metaphorכִּ֤י יְהוָה֙ קַנָּ֣א שְׁמ֔⁠וֹ אֵ֥ל קַנָּ֖א הֽוּא׃1Yahweh, whose name is Jealous

The repeated word jealous 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. This is pictured in a metaphor of a jealous spouse who is concerned that his spouse be faithful to him. This is an important Biblical metaphor that should be kept in translation if at all possible. The UST makes this image explicit as a simile, which can be done occasionally but would probably be too long for repeated use in a translation. Alternate translation: “Yahweh jealously guards his reputation. He is a God jealous of his honor.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2232EXO3414s5sdfigs-metonymyכִּ֤י יְהוָה֙ קַנָּ֣א שְׁמ֔⁠וֹ1whose name is Jealous,

Here, the word name represents Gods character. Alternate translation: “Yahweh is always jealous” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2233EXO3415r70fgrammar-collectivenounsלְ⁠יוֹשֵׁ֣ב…וְ⁠קָרָ֣א…מִ⁠זִּבְחֽ⁠וֹ1General Information:

The word inhabitant is a singular noun that refers to any individual inhabitant or group of inhabitants from the peoples mentioned in the previous verse. The pronouns he and his are agreeing with that singular noun. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. See how you translated this in verse 12. Alternate translation: “with the inhabitants of … and they invite … from their sacrifice” or “with the inhabitants of … and one of them invites … from his sacrifice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

2234EXO3415udz0figs-hypoפֶּן־תִּכְרֹ֥ת בְּרִ֖ית לְ⁠יוֹשֵׁ֣ב הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ וְ⁠זָנ֣וּ׀ אַחֲרֵ֣י אֱלֹֽהֵי⁠הֶ֗ם וְ⁠זָבְחוּ֙ לֵ⁠אלֹ֣הֵי⁠הֶ֔ם וְ⁠קָרָ֣א לְ⁠ךָ֔1Connecting Statement:

Most of this verse is a sort of chain of logically consecutive hypothetical events that Yahweh is warning the Israelites against. Your language may have a specific way this sort of argument must be structured or phrased. One way to see this would be to repeat lest before every verb in verse 15-16. Alternate translation: “If you cut a covenant the inhabitant of the land, and if they then prostitute after their gods and sacrifice to their gods, and if he then invites you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])

2235EXO3415f1e3פֶּן־תִּכְרֹ֥ת בְּרִ֖ית לְ⁠יוֹשֵׁ֣ב הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ1Connecting Statement:

This phrase is exactly the same as the second clause of verse 12. It serves as a reminder of the command Yahweh is giving as he begins to expand on the “trap” he mentioned in verse 12. Your language may need to mark this repetition in a particular way. Alternate translation: “Remember: keep yourself lest you cut a covenant with the inhabitant of the land”

2236EXO3415n4ntfigs-idiomתִּכְרֹ֥ת בְּרִ֖ית1Connecting Statement:

See how you translated this in verse 12. Alternate translation: “you make a covenant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2237EXO3415gtd8figs-metaphorוְ⁠זָנ֣וּ׀ אַחֲרֵ֣י אֱלֹֽהֵי⁠הֶ֗ם1for they prostitute themselves to their gods

In this metaphor, Yahweh speaks of people worshiping other gods as if they were prostitutes going to other men. This metaphor is most often used regarding the unfaithfulness of the Israelites. The metaphor is not quite as clear with the other nations because while Yahweh is the only true God, he is not in special covenant with the other nations as their god. However, since the worship is still impurely following false gods, the metaphor is used here. This is an important Biblical metaphor that should be kept in translation if at all possible. Alternate translation: “and they worship their gods” or “because they worship their gods like prostitutes who go to other men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2238EXO3415d1m0figs-metonymyוְ⁠זָנ֣וּ׀ אַחֲרֵ֣י אֱלֹֽהֵי⁠הֶ֗ם1for they prostitute themselves to their gods

This phrase may also be seen as a metonymy because sexual sin was a regular part of worshiping false gods. Alternate translation: “and they worship by fornicating with their gods cult prostitutes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2239EXO3415vijlfigs-ellipsisוְ⁠קָרָ֣א לְ⁠ךָ֔1for they prostitute themselves to their gods

Here, what the inhabitant will invite the Israelite to is not stated, but can be inferred from context. At the most basic level it is an invitation to eat food the Israelites were forbidden to eat. It is unclear how much more participation in worshiping false gods is implied. If your language requires that you specify what the Israelite is being invited into you may have to add some information. Alternate translation: “and he will invite you to eat from his sacrifice” or “and he will invite you to a feast to honor his gods” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

2240EXO3415ygd9grammar-connect-logic-resultוְ⁠אָכַלְתָּ֖ מִ⁠זִּבְחֽ⁠וֹ1for they prostitute themselves to their gods

The first part of the sin Yahweh is warning against in this and the next verse is to eat from his sacrifice. This clause is the result of disobedience regarding the covenant and the logical conclusion of the series of hypothetical events Yahweh presents before this. Alternate translation: “as a result, you will eat from his sacrifice” or “then you will eat from his sacrifice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

2241EXO3415hhbcfigs-synecdocheוְ⁠אָכַלְתָּ֖ מִ⁠זִּבְחֽ⁠וֹ1for they prostitute themselves to their gods

Here, and you eat from his sacrifice may represent any and all parts of the worship of the other nations false gods. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could translate the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and you feast to honor his gods” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

2242EXO3415bj2ifigs-explicitוְ⁠אָכַלְתָּ֖ מִ⁠זִּבְחֽ⁠וֹ1you will eat some of his sacrifice

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express the consequence of eating food that is sacrificed to another god explicitly. Alternate translation: “and 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]])

2243EXO3416jaicgrammar-connect-condition-hypothetical0you will eat some of his sacrifice

The string of hypothetical actions, each with its logical result continues throughout this verse. Continue translating the transitions between clauses as you decided in the previous verses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]])

2244EXO3416d4mafigs-metaphorוְ⁠זָנ֣וּ בְנֹתָ֗י⁠ו אַחֲרֵי֙ אֱלֹ֣הֵי⁠הֶ֔ן1you will eat some of his sacrifice

In this metaphor, Yahweh speaks of people worshiping other gods as if they were prostitutes going to other men. This metaphor is most often used regarding the unfaithfulness of the Israelites. The metaphor is not quite as clear with the other nations because while Yahweh is the only true God, he is not in special covenant with the other nations as their god. However, since the worship is still impurely following false gods, the metaphor is used here. This is an important Biblical metaphor that should be kept in translation if at all possible. See how you translated it in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “and his daughters worship their gods” or “and his daughters worship their gods like prostitutes who go to other men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2245EXO3416k0lrfigs-metaphorוְ⁠הִזְנוּ֙ אֶת־בָּנֶ֔י⁠ךָ אַחֲרֵ֖י אֱלֹהֵי⁠הֶֽן1you will eat some of his sacrifice

In this metaphor, Yahweh speaks of people worshiping other gods as if they were prostitutes going to other men. The metaphor is clear here since it is referring to Israelite men who should be Yahweh worshipers. This is an important Biblical metaphor that should be kept in translation if at all possible. Alternate translation: “and cause your sons to worship their gods” or “and cause your sons to worship their gods like prostitutes who go to other men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2246EXO3416p98agrammar-connect-logic-resultוְ⁠הִזְנוּ֙ אֶת־בָּנֶ֔י⁠ךָ אַחֲרֵ֖י אֱלֹהֵי⁠הֶֽן1you will eat some of his sacrifice

This is the climatic consequence of living in peace the nations God is driving out before them: complete apostacy from Yahweh and loss of the next generation to wickedness. Specifically it is the result of intermarriage with the pagans, which God has explicitly forbidden for this very reason. If your language marks the final consequence of a string of actions in a particular way it may be appropriate to use it here. Alternate translation: “and in the end, they will cause even your sons to prostitute after their gods” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

2247EXO3417lgab0you will eat some of his sacrifice

The prohibition here is focused on making gods. In your translation make sure that the focus is not on the method, but the god-making.

2248EXO3417rux0מַסֵּכָ֖ה1you will eat some of his sacrifice

See how you translated molten metal in Exodus 32:4.

2249EXO3418s1rr0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to most of Exodus 23:15.

2250EXO3418u5betranslate-numbersשִׁבְעַ֨ת1seven days

Alternate translation: “7” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2251EXO3418i5cktranslate-hebrewmonthsהָ⁠אָבִ֑יב…הָֽ⁠אָבִ֔יב1in 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. You could convert the Hebrew day and month into an approximate date on the calendar that your culture uses. However, the Jews used a lunar calendar, so if you use a solar calendar, the date will be different every year and the translation will not be entirely accurate. So you may just want to give the number of the day and the name of the month on the Hebrew calendar, and say approximately what time of year that is on your calendar in a footnote.(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths]])

2252EXO3419ly7d0General Information:

This verse is similar to Exodus 13:12.

2253EXO3420sbrs0buy back

This verse is very similar to Exodus 13:13.

2254EXO3420j4tvfigs-explicitבְ⁠שֶׂ֔ה…וַ⁠עֲרַפְתּ֑⁠וֹ1buy back

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express explicitly that either the lamb or donkey must be killed, as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2255EXO3420c5owלֹ֥א תִפְדֶּ֖ה1buy back

Alternate translation: “you do not ransom the donkey”

2256EXO3420yz8xכֹּ֣ל בְּכ֤וֹר בָּנֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ תִּפְדֶּ֔ה1buy 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.

2257EXO3420u2p5figs-doublenegativesוְ⁠לֹֽא־יֵרָא֥וּ פָנַ֖⁠י רֵיקָֽם1No one may appear before me empty-handed

Here understatement is used to emphasize that the Israelites must bring a suitable offering to Yahweh. This portion of the verse is identical to the end of Exodus 23:15. If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “come to me without a proper offering” or “always bring an offering to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

2258EXO3421w9ed0General Information:

This command is similar to that in Exodus 20:9.

2259EXO3421n2katranslate-ordinalוּ⁠בַ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠שְּׁבִיעִ֖י1General Information:

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “but on day seven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

2260EXO3421swm8בֶּ⁠חָרִ֥ישׁ וּ⁠בַ⁠קָּצִ֖יר1Even at plowing time and in harvest

Alternate translation: “Even when you are preparing the soil or gathering the crops”

2261EXO3422lhxb0Festival of Ingathering

This verse is similar to Exodus 23:16, however the first festival is named Festival of Weeks here and “Festival of the Harvest” in 23:16.

2262EXO3422d13lוְ⁠חַג֙ הָֽ⁠אָסִ֔יף1Festival of Ingathering

This festival celebrated the final harvesting of all the crops for the year. 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. See Deuteronomy 16:13. See how you translated this in Exodus 23:16. Alternate translation: “and the Festival of the Ingathering”

2263EXO3422xqy4figs-metaphorתְּקוּפַ֖ת הַ⁠שָּׁנָֽה1Festival of Ingathering

Like “the exiting of the year” in Exodus 23:16, this refers to the end of the year. Here, the year is pictured as something that can turn. Which, thinking of the planet, is highly astronomically accurate. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2264EXO3423zh580General Information:

Except for God of Israel and dropping “to,” this verse is identical to Exodus 23:17.

2265EXO3423iagyfigs-metonymyיֵרָאֶה֙…אֶת־פְּנֵ֛י הָֽ⁠אָדֹ֥ן1General Information:

Here to appear before the face of the Lord Yahweh means to gather to worship. Before the face is a metonym for Yahwehs presence, referring to worship. Alternate translation: “must come to worship the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2266EXO3425zx2v0General Information:

See the very similar Exodus 23:18.

2267EXO3425e8v2figs-explicitדַּם־זִבְחִ֑⁠י1the blood of my sacrifice

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express the fact that the blood is from an animal explicitly. Alternate translation: “the blood of an animal that you sacrifice to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2268EXO3426bv0a0the blood of my sacrifice

This verse is identical to Exodus 23:19.

2269EXO3427x6j9כִּ֞י עַל־פִּ֣י׀ הַ⁠דְּבָרִ֣ים הָ⁠אֵ֗לֶּה1the blood of my sacrifice

Alternate translation: “for in accordance with these words” or “for according to these words”

2270EXO3427ybz6figs-idiomכָּרַ֧תִּי אִתְּ⁠ךָ֛ בְּרִ֖ית1the blood of my sacrifice

See how you translated this in verse 12. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2271EXO3428j9t4translate-numbersעֲשֶׂ֖רֶת1forty days

Alternate translation: “10” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2272EXO3428wt1cאַרְבָּעִ֥ים יוֹם֙ וְ⁠אַרְבָּעִ֣ים לַ֔יְלָה1for forty days and nights

Alternate translation: “for 40 days, including the nights”

2273EXO3428yun2writing-pronounsוַ⁠יִּכְתֹּ֣ב1He wrote

Here, he probably refers to Moses, based on Yahwehs command in the previous verse. However, Exodus 34:1 opens the possibility that Yahweh wrote. It is best to leave it ambiguous, but if you must specify, saying Moses is better. Alternate translation: “Moses wrote” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

2274EXO3429t1s0writing-neweventוַ⁠יְהִ֗י1had become radiant

This marks a change of scene which you should mark in a natural way in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

2275EXO3429x70xfigs-infostructureוַ⁠יְהִ֗י בְּ⁠רֶ֤דֶת מֹשֶׁה֙ מֵ⁠הַ֣ר סִינַ֔י וּ⁠שְׁנֵ֨י לֻחֹ֤ת הָֽ⁠עֵדֻת֙ בְּ⁠יַד־מֹשֶׁ֔ה בְּ⁠רִדְתּ֖⁠וֹ מִן־הָ⁠הָ֑ר1had become radiant

The statement about Moses descent from the mountain is repeated almost verbatim, but does not refer to two events. If this would be misunderstood you may need to state it only once in translation as in the UST. Alternate translation: “Then Moses came down from Mount Sinai. As he was coming down from the mountain, he was carrying the two tablets of the testimony in his hands.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])

2276EXO3429yagjfigs-infostructureוּ⁠מֹשֶׁ֣ה לֹֽא־יָדַ֗ע כִּ֥י קָרַ֛ן ע֥וֹר פָּנָ֖י⁠ו בְּ⁠דַבְּר֥⁠וֹ אִתּֽ⁠וֹ1had become radiant

In some languages it will make more sense to state that Moses face shone before saying that he did not know that as in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])

2277EXO3429d9zkקָרַ֛ן1had become radiant

Alternate translation: “became radiant”

2278EXO3430yn9sgrammar-connect-logic-resultוַ⁠יִּֽירְא֖וּ1had become radiant

They were afraid because of his bright face. Alternate translation: “because of that, they were afraid” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

2279EXO3432kt23וַ⁠יְצַוֵּ֕⁠ם אֵת֩ כָּל־אֲשֶׁ֨ר דִּבֶּ֧ר יְהוָ֛ה אִתּ֖⁠וֹ1all the commands that Yahweh had given him

This means that Moses commanded the Israelites to obey everything Yahweh had commanded Moses to command the Israelites to do.

2280EXO3434fzm1grammar-connect-time-background0he would remove

This and the next verse give a general statement about Mosess practice for an unstated amount of time (it was probably from this point until his death as he continued to talk to Yahweh). You should mark this with a form in your language that is used for on-going action like would or the USTs “Whenever.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background]])

2281EXO3434m1svfigs-activepassiveיְצֻוֶּֽה1what he was commanded

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh had commanded him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2282EXO35introlew90

Exodus 35 General Notes

Structure\r

\r

  • v. 1-3: reiteration of Sabbath command\r
  • v. 4-9: list of materials for donation (see Exodus 25:1-7)\r
  • v. 10-19: things they need to make for the Dwelling complex\r
  • v. 20-29: the people bring all the things listed\r
  • v. 30-36:1: appointing of lead craftsmen to build these things

Translation Issues in this Chapter

  • In the last chapter some repetition of Yahwehs instructions began, mostly around the covenant commands. Starting in this chapter and even more so in chapter 36, the commands regarding the construction of the Dwelling complex are repeated, often word for word, from chapters 25-31. In many verses the only difference will be a change of verb form from instruction to completion. As much as possible, these parallels will be pointed out for the translators with links to the previous verses. Translators should refer back to the previously translated verses for consistency and because notes in this section may not cover everything that was covered in the initial instruction section.
  • Many items, materials, and processes for building the Dwelling may be unknown, but should have already been addressed in chapters 25-31.
2283EXO352hfaq0

This verse is very similar to Exodus 31:15.

2284EXO352g6oetranslate-numbersשֵׁ֣שֶׁת1the seventh day

Alternate translation: “6” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2285EXO352c559translate-ordinalוּ⁠בַ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠שְּׁבִיעִ֗י1the seventh day

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “but on day 7” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

2286EXO352ax6ufigs-activepassiveשֵׁ֣שֶׁת יָמִים֮ תֵּעָשֶׂ֣ה מְלָאכָה֒1Whoever does any work on that day must be put to death

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Six days you shall work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2287EXO352zij9figs-activepassiveכָּל־הָ⁠עֹשֶׂ֥ה ב֛⁠וֹ מְלָאכָ֖ה יוּמָֽת1Whoever does any work on that day must be put to death

If your language would not use passive here, you can state this in an active form. Alternate translation: “You must execute anyone who works on that day” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2288EXO354jdb80General Information:

In verses 4-9, Moses tells the Israelites to collect the things Yahweh commanded him to collect in Exodus 25:2-7. You should check your translation for consistency between these passages.

2289EXO354ugn4figs-quotationsוַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר מֹשֶׁ֔ה אֶל־כָּל־עֲדַ֥ת בְּנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר זֶ֣ה הַ⁠דָּבָ֔ר אֲשֶׁר־צִוָּ֥ה יְהוָ֖ה לֵ⁠אמֹֽר1General Information:

Verses 5-19 are a second-level direct quotation. If it would be better to reduce the quotation level in your language, you may want to make this introductory comment (everything after the first saying) an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “And Moses told all of the congregation of the sons of Israel the things that Yahweh commanded, saying,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

2290EXO355h5c80General Information:

This verse is similar to Exodus 25:2-3.

2291EXO355n2c8קְח֨וּ מֵֽ⁠אִתְּ⁠כֶ֤ם תְּרוּמָה֙ לַֽ⁠יהוָ֔ה1Take an offering for Yahweh

Alternate translation: “Take up a collection for Yahweh from what you have”

2292EXO355qq0afigs-ellipsisכֹּ֚ל1Take an offering for Yahweh

Here, “from” is omitted but suggested by the sentence grammar. Also, every means “every person.” If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “from every person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

2293EXO355pqa2figs-idiomכֹּ֚ל נְדִ֣יב לִבּ֔⁠וֹ1General Information:

This is an idiom that indicates a persons desire to give an offering. Many languages will have a similar idiom, though the body part often varies. Alternate translation: “from everyone who wants to give one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2294EXO355gx870General Information:

After this verse, a list begins. You may need to mark the end of this verse with punctuation or another way that your language marks the start of a list.

2295EXO356r12v0General Information:

This verse is identical to Exodus 25:4.

2296EXO356g615figs-explicitוּ⁠תְכֵ֧לֶת וְ⁠אַרְגָּמָ֛ן וְ⁠תוֹלַ֥עַת שָׁנִ֖י1General Information:

This could mean: (1) “material that is dyed blue, purple, and scarlet,” probably wool yarn, or (2) “blue, purple and scarlet dye” to dye the linen. The original audience would have known what was meant. This material seems to have been used for embroidery later, so “yarn” or ”thread” may be the best understanding. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2297EXO356cad9translate-unknownוְ⁠תוֹלַ֥עַת שָׁנִ֖י1General Information:

A bright red color for dying cloth was extracted from these worms. Alternate translation: “and bright red” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

2298EXO357nmv40General Information:

This verse is identical to Exodus 25:5.

2299EXO357l5bqtranslate-unknownמְאָדָּמִ֛ים1ram skins dyed red and fine leather hides

When animal skins are tanned (processed into usable leather), they become reddish. It is not clear if these hides are dyed red or simply reddened in the tanning process. Alternate translation: “tanned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

2300EXO357wmsltranslate-unknownתְּחָשִׁ֖ים1ram skins dyed red and fine leather hides

The meaning of this word is not known; it may refer to some water mammal that has skin that can be made into a high-quality leather. Sea cows on Wikipedia (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

2301EXO357tzrktranslate-unknownשִׂטִּֽים1ram skins dyed red and fine leather hides

A small tree with spreading foliage and durable wood. See on Wikipedia (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

2302EXO358ikm40General Information:

Except for several uses of the word and, this verse is identical to Exodus 25:6.

2303EXO358y11wtranslate-unknownוּ⁠בְשָׂמִים֙1General Information:

Here, spices are made from parts of plants that people dry and then grind into a powder to put in oil or food, giving it a particular smell or flavor. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

2304EXO359f1dd0General Information:

Except for an initial and, this verse is identical to Exodus 25:7.

2305EXO359hcs9translate-unknownוְ⁠אַ֨בְנֵי־שֹׁ֔הַם1General Information:

An onyx stone is a valuable stone that has layers of white and black, red, or brown. If this stone is unknown to your people, consider translating it by using a word for a familiar stone with a similar pattern, if possible. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

2306EXO359kk7zוְ⁠אַבְנֵ֖י1General Information:

Alternate translation: “and valuable gems for” or “and treasured gems for”

2307EXO3510dc4bfigs-metonymyוְ⁠כָל־חֲכַם־לֵ֖ב1Every skilled man

Here, heart and spirit are both referring to things innately possessed by a person, that is, traits of a person. The phrase essentially means “a talented craftsman.” If this is unclear to your readers you may consider making it more explicit. See how you translated this in Exodus 28:3. Alternate translation: “And every man with a skill” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2308EXO3510lkp4figs-ellipsisצִוָּ֖ה1Every skilled man

Here, some the words that a sentence would need to be complete in some languages are left out. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the context, as modeled in the UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

2309EXO3510ugjb0Every skilled man

After this verse, a list begins. You may need to mark the end of this verse with punctuation or another way that your language marks the start of a list.

2310EXO3511s0ipמִכְסֵ֑⁠הוּ1clasps

See how you translated this in Exodus 26:14.

2311EXO3511j5t7קְרָסָי⁠ו֙1clasps

The clasps fit into the loops to hold the curtains together. See how you translated these in Exodus 26:6.

2312EXO3511u022קְרָשָׁ֔י⁠ו1clasps

See how you translated this in Exodus 26:15.

2313EXO3511pvftבְּרִיחָ֖יו1clasps

See how you translated this in Exodus 26:26.

2314EXO3511f1gkעַמֻּדָ֖י⁠ו1clasps

See how you translated this in 26:32.

2315EXO3511syn4אֲדָנָֽי⁠ו1bases

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 26:19.

2316EXO3512rj7s0atonement lid

See how you translated these terms in 25:10-17 and 26:36.

2317EXO3513l641figs-metonymyלֶ֥חֶם הַ⁠פָּנִֽים1bread of the presence

Here, face figuratively represents the presence of Yahweh. This bread represented the presence of God. Alternate translation: “the bread of the Presence” See how you translated this in Exodus 25:30. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2318EXO3514obmd0bread of the presence

See 25:31-37 for these items.

2319EXO3515ht7xמִזְבַּ֤ח הַ⁠קְּטֹ֨רֶת֙…שֶׁ֣מֶן הַ⁠מִּשְׁחָ֔ה…קְטֹ֣רֶת הַ⁠סַּמִּ֑ים1bread of the presence

For the altar, see 30:1. For the oil, see 30:25. For the incense, see 30:7.

2320EXO3516h1160bronze grate

For the grate, see Exodus 27:4. Most of the rest of the verse is almost identical to 30:28.

2321EXO3517h8zlקַלְעֵ֣י…מָסַ֖ךְ1hangings

These were large curtains made of cloth. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:36.

2322EXO3517x54fעַמֻּדָ֖י⁠ו1posts

These were strong pieces of wood set upright and used as supports. See how you translated these in Exodus 27:10.

2323EXO3517xtm8אֲדָנֶ֑י⁠הָ1bases

These were blocks that had a slot in them to keep the board in place. See how you translated this in Exodus 26:19.

2324EXO3518n44rיִתְדֹ֧ת…יִתְדֹ֥ת1tent pegs

These were 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.

2325EXO3519x1pc0finely-woven garments

Except for for serving in the Holy Place and two “ands,” this verse is identical to 31:10.

2326EXO3520w6rgfigs-metonymyמִ⁠לִּ⁠פְנֵ֥י מֹשֶֽׁה1all the tribes of Israel

Alternate translation: “from Moses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2327EXO3521p2lsfigs-parallelismוַ⁠יָּבֹ֕אוּ כָּל־אִ֖ישׁ אֲשֶׁר־נְשָׂא֣⁠וֹ לִבּ֑⁠וֹ וְ⁠כֹ֡ל אֲשֶׁר֩ נָדְבָ֨ה רוּח֜⁠וֹ אֹת֗⁠וֹ הֵ֠בִיאוּ1all the tribes of Israel

These two phrases parallel each other and mean the same thing. It would be good to keep this poetic repetition in your translation unless it would be misunderstood. If repetition here would not highlight the joyful giving spirit of the Israelites in your language, you may need to combine the phrases. Alternate translation: “Everyone who was motivated, body and soul, came and gave” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

2328EXO3521r34yfigs-synecdocheוַ⁠יָּבֹ֕אוּ כָּל־אִ֖ישׁ אֲשֶׁר־נְשָׂא֣⁠וֹ לִבּ֑⁠וֹ וְ⁠כֹ֡ל אֲשֶׁר֩ נָדְבָ֨ה רוּח֜⁠וֹ אֹת֗⁠וֹ הֵ֠בִיאוּ1all the tribes of Israel

Here, heart and spirit both refer to a persons will, their desire to do something. Many languages will have similar expressions, perhaps using different body and spirit words or concepts which you can use. If your language would not express a persons will in this way, you could translate the meaning. Alternate translation: “And every man whose will lifted him came, and all who felt impelled brought” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

2329EXO3521ckmufigs-metaphorאֲשֶׁר־נְשָׂא֣⁠וֹ לִבּ֑⁠וֹ1all the tribes of Israel

Here, heart lifted is a metaphor for being willing or excited. Many languages will have similar expressions, perhaps using a different body part or a different action. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “who was excited” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2330EXO3521u7kqfigs-gendernotationsכָּל־אִ֖ישׁ אֲשֶׁר־נְשָׂא֣⁠וֹ לִבּ֑⁠וֹ וְ⁠כֹ֡ל אֲשֶׁר֩ נָדְבָ֨ה רוּח֜⁠וֹ אֹת֗⁠וֹ1all the tribes of Israel

Here, man, whose, and him all refer to men and women in a general way. This is made explicit in the next verse. If your readers might misunderstand this, you may use terms that include men and women. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

2331EXO3521kew0figs-abstractnounsוּ⁠לְ⁠בִגְדֵ֖י הַ⁠קֹּֽדֶשׁ1all the tribes of Israel

If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun holiness in another way. See how you translated this in 28:2. Alternate translation: “and for the holy clothing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2332EXO3522mwx8figs-synecdocheכֹּ֣ל׀ נְדִ֣יב לֵ֗ב1all who had a willing heart

Here, heart refers to a persons will, their desire to do something. It is spoken of as causing a person to bring these gifts to Yahweh. This is a shortening and combining of the figure used in the previous verse: heart and impelled are brought together. See how you translated these ideas in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “anyone whose will impelled him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

2333EXO3522yzswל׀ נְדִ֣יב1all who had a willing heart

Alternate translation: “who were impelled of”

2334EXO3522wwp2figs-litanyחָ֣ח וָ⁠נֶ֜זֶם וְ⁠טַבַּ֤עַת וְ⁠כוּמָז֙ כָּל־כְּלִ֣י זָהָ֔ב1brooches, earrings, rings, and ornaments

These are different kinds of jewelry. The exact identity of each object is not known. The phrase all of the things of gold could either modify the whole list, meaning “all these items were made of gold,” or could mean “many other gold things.” If taken as a summary statement, in some languages it may be clearer to move it to the front of the list. Alternate translation: “all kinds of gold jewelry including necklaces, nose rings, signet rings, and gold ornaments” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])

2335EXO3522frcifigs-gendernotationsוְ⁠כָל־אִ֕ישׁ1brooches, earrings, rings, and ornaments

Although the term men is used, the word here is used in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “And every person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

2336EXO3523s3ky0Everyone who had…brought them

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 25:4-5.

2337EXO3523dweofigs-activepassiveוְ⁠כָל־אִ֞ישׁ אֲשֶׁר־נִמְצָ֣א אִתּ֗⁠וֹ1Everyone who had…brought them

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Also, the meaning of this phrase is simple possession. Alternate translation: “And every man who owned” or “And every man having” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2338EXO3523hg0dfigs-gendernotationsוְ⁠כָל־אִ֞ישׁ1Everyone who had…brought them

Here man includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “And every person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

2339EXO3523t3tifigs-hyperboleוְ⁠כָל־אִ֞ישׁ1Everyone who had…brought them

The phrase every man is used here without the restriction, “who was willing,” from previous verses. The exaggeration is used to emphasize what a large portion of the Israelites gave willingly. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that expresses a large number or a majority. Alternate translation: “And very many people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

2340EXO3524qpepfigs-activepassiveוְ⁠כֹ֡ל אֲשֶׁר֩ נִמְצָ֨א אִתּ֜⁠וֹ1Everyone who had…brought them

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Also, the meaning of this phrase is simple possession. Alternate translation: “and everyone who owned” or “and everyone having” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2341EXO3524zk6iכָּל־מֵרִ֗ים1Everyone who had…brought them

Here, all is limited by presenters, meaning only everyone who brought contributions. Avoid implying that every single Israelite did this (though very many did). Alternate translation: “All who decided to offer”

2342EXO3524loobfigs-hyperboleוְ⁠כֹ֡ל1Everyone who had…brought them

The phrase all is used here without the restriction, “who were willing,” from previous verses. The exaggeration is used to emphasize what a large portion of the Israelites gave willingly. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that expresses a large number or a majority. Alternate translation: “and very many people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

2343EXO3524bab9figs-metonymyלְ⁠כָל־מְלֶ֥אכֶת הָ⁠עֲבֹדָ֖ה1Everyone who had…brought them

Here, service refers to worshiping Yahweh, and the phrase work of the service refers to building the Dwelling as a place for worshiping Yahweh. Alternate translation: “for any of the building of a place for worship” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2344EXO3525ae9dfigs-metonymyחַכְמַת־לֵ֖ב1blue, purple, or scarlet wool

Here, heart is referring to something innately possessed by a person, that is, a trait of a person. The phrase essentially means “a talented craftswoman.” If this is unclear to your readers you may consider making it more explicit. See how you translated a similar phrase in Exodus 28:3. Alternate translation: “who possessed the skill” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2345EXO3525ebm5אֶֽת־הַ⁠תְּכֵ֨לֶת֙ וְ⁠אֶת־הָֽ⁠אַרְגָּמָ֔ן אֶת־תּוֹלַ֥עַת הַ⁠שָּׁנִ֖י1blue, purple, or scarlet wool

This could mean: (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.

2346EXO3526k1gyfigs-synecdocheאֲשֶׁ֨ר נָשָׂ֥א לִבָּ֛⁠ן אֹתָ֖⁠נָה1whose hearts stirred them up

Here, heart refers to a persons will, their desire to do something. It is spoken of as causing a person to use her skills for Yahweh. This is the same as the first phrase in verse 21. Alternate translation: “whose wills impelled them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

2347EXO3527f13n0The leaders brought…breastpiece

Beginning with onyx, this verse is almost identical to Exodus 25:7.

2348EXO3528h3a10they brought spices…fragrant incense

Exodus 25:6 has almost identical words, arranged slightly differently.

2349EXO3529hqlefigs-infostructure0whose heart was willing

The order of clauses in the ULT is reversed from the original because of required English sentence structure. In the original, The sons of Israel brought a freewill offering to Yahweh is at the end of the verse. Other languages may be able to retain the original order. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])

2350EXO3529li5zfigs-synecdocheאֲשֶׁ֨ר נָדַ֣ב לִבָּ⁠ם֮ אֹתָ⁠ם֒1whose heart was willing

Here, heart refers to a persons will, their desire to do something. It is spoken of as causing a person to bring these gifts to Yahweh. See how you translated this in 25:2 and 35:22. Alternate translation: “whose will impelled them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

2351EXO3529w582figs-metonymyאֲשֶׁ֨ר צִוָּ֧ה יְהוָ֛ה לַ⁠עֲשׂ֖וֹת בְּ⁠יַד־מֹשֶׁ֑ה1Bezalel son of Uri son of Hur, from the tribe of Judah

Here, by the hand of Moses refers to Moses as a messenger for Yahwehs commands, not to Moses being the one who would build all these things. If this imagery of carrying a message would be misunderstood in your language, you may use another figure or translate the meaning. Alternate translation: “which Yahweh had told Moses to tell them to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2352EXO3530z1e20Bezalel son of Uri son of Hur, from the tribe of Judah

What Moses says in this verse is a quote from Exodus 31:2

2353EXO3530kx4otranslate-namesבְּצַלְאֵ֛ל…אוּרִ֥י…ח֖וּר1Bezalel son of Uri son of Hur, from the tribe of Judah

These are mens names. See 31:2. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2354EXO3531zd740filled Bezalel…craftsmanship

This verse is a quote from Exodus 31:3

2355EXO3531gse9figs-metaphorוַ⁠יְמַלֵּ֥א אֹת֖⁠וֹ ר֣וּחַ אֱלֹהִ֑ים1He has filled Bezalel with his Spirit

Yahweh speaks of giving Bezalel his spirit as if Bezalel were a container and Gods spirit were a liquid. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “And he has given his spirit to Bezalel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2356EXO3531jsd7figs-abstractnounsבְּ⁠חָכְמָ֛ה1He has filled Bezalel with his Spirit

If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun skill in another way. Alternate translation: “so he can work skillfully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2357EXO3531hnjufigs-abstractnounsוּ⁠בְ⁠דַ֖עַת1He has filled Bezalel with his Spirit

If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun understanding in another way. Alternate translation: “and so he can understand his work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2358EXO3531qx5ofigs-abstractnounsוּ⁠בְ⁠דַ֖עַת1He has filled Bezalel with his Spirit

If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun knowledge in another way. Alternate translation: “and so he knows his work well” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2359EXO3531cf63figs-abstractnounsוּ⁠בְ⁠כָל־מְלָאכָֽה1He has filled Bezalel with his Spirit

If your language does not use an abstract noun for craftsmanship, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun in another way. Alternate translation: “and for making all kinds of crafts” or “and so that he can make all kinds of things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2360EXO3532r7e30to make artistic designs…bronze

This verse is identical to Exodus 31:4, except for the first and.

2361EXO3533fj6f0also to cut and set stones…craftsmanship

This verse is identical to Exodus 31:5 except for the final of invention.

2362EXO3534xd67figs-idiomוּ⁠לְ⁠הוֹרֹ֖ת נָתַ֣ן בְּ⁠לִבּ֑⁠וֹ1He has put it in his heart to teach

Here, put in his heart is an idiom referring to ability and desire. These are spoken of as if they are something that could be placed in a heart. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “And he gave to them the ability and desire to teach” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2363EXO3534ab2ztranslate-namesוְ⁠אָֽהֳלִיאָ֥ב…אֲחִיסָמָ֖ךְ1Oholiab son of Ahisamak, from the tribe of Dan

These are names of men. See how you translated these names in Exodus 31:6. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2364EXO3535ehu70filled them with skill

This verse summarizes and pulls together many previously mentioned things. See 28:3 (skill of heart), 25:4 (for materials), 26:36 (embroiderer), 28:32 (weaver), 26:31 (skillful workman), 31:3 (craftsman), 28:6 (designer of designs).

2365EXO3535rcv9figs-metaphorמִלֵּ֨א אֹתָ֜⁠ם חָכְמַת־לֵ֗ב1filled them with skill

Here, skill to create beautiful objects is spoken of as if it were something that could fill up a person. If your readers would not understand what this image means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “He has made them very skillful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2366EXO3535jvtdfigs-synecdocheחָכְמַת־לֵ֗ב1filled them with skill

Here, of heart refers to possessing something, in this case ability or skill. Some languages will use a different body part for this image. Alternate translation: “with ability” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

2367EXO36intronz4n0

Exodus 36 General Notes

Structure

\r \r

  • v. 1: finish Moses instruction\r
  • v. 2-7: craftsmen collect materials from Moses, inform him the people should stop bringing things because they have too much already -v. 8-38: construction of the Dwelling, verse-by-verse quotations marked below\r

Translation issues

  • The first verse of this chapter goes with the last chapter.
  • Most of this chapter exactly quotes chapter 26 with a shift from instruction to past narrative form on the verbs and a few other minor changes; some are Hebrew word order that will be invisible here. Be sure to consult your previous work for consistency.
  • Throughout verses 8-38 the word heis used. This is a generic noun referring to any of the team of skilled craftsmen. You could also change it to “they” if that would be understood better in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
2368EXO361ubk20General Information:

This verse is the end of a quotation from Moses that begin in 35:30. It should be connected as visually as possible to the previous verses, as the chapter break here is poorly placed.

2369EXO361ds99translate-namesבְצַלְאֵ֨ל וְ⁠אָהֳלִיאָ֜ב1Bezalel

Bezalel and Oholiab are the names of men. See how you translated this in Exodus 31:2 and 31:6 as well as in the end of chapter 35. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2370EXO361y1h1figs-gendernotationsאִ֣ישׁ1Bezalel

We know from 35:25 that women were included in the skilled workers, so man means every person. Alternate translation: “person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

2371EXO361tr3pfigs-synecdocheחֲכַם־לֵ֗ב1to whom Yahweh has given skill and ability

Here, of heart refers to innately possessing something, in this case ability or skill. Some languages will use a different body part for this image. Alternate translation: “with innate ability” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

2372EXO361ah6jfigs-abstractnounsחָכְמָ֤ה1to whom Yahweh has given skill and ability

If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun skill in another way. See 35:31. Alternate translation: “the ability to work skillfully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2373EXO361d6osfigs-abstractnounsוּ⁠תְבוּנָה֙1to whom Yahweh has given skill and ability

If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun understanding in another way. See 35:31. Alternate translation: “and so he can understand his work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2374EXO361mdi4figs-metonymyמְלֶ֖אכֶת עֲבֹדַ֣ת הַ⁠קֹּ֑דֶשׁ1according to all that Yahweh has commanded

Here, service refers to worshiping Yahweh, and the phrase work of the service refers to building the Dwelling (Holy Place) where the Israelites would worship Yahweh. See 35:24. Alternate translation: “the building of the Holy Place for worship” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2375EXO362tda7אֶל־בְּצַלְאֵ֘ל וְ⁠אֶל־אָֽהֳלִיאָב֒ וְ⁠אֶל֙ כָּל־אִ֣ישׁ חֲכַם־לֵ֔ב אֲשֶׁ֨ר נָתַ֧ן יְהוָ֛ה חָכְמָ֖ה בְּ⁠לִבּ֑⁠וֹ1in whose mind Yahweh had given skill

See how you translated this in the previous verse.

2376EXO362vvtzfigs-abstractnounsחָכְמָ֖ה1in whose mind Yahweh had given skill

See how you translated skill in the previous verse. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2377EXO362yuq8figs-metaphorכֹּ֚ל אֲשֶׁ֣ר נְשָׂא֣⁠וֹ לִבּ֔⁠וֹ1whose heart stirred within him

See how you translated this in 35:21. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2378EXO363est0וַ⁠יִּקְח֞וּ1whose heart stirred within him

Alternate translation: “and the craftsmen took”

2379EXO363xkixfigs-metonymyמִ⁠לִּ⁠פְנֵ֣י1whose heart stirred within him

Here, before the face means with Moses. Moses had received and kept the building materials. Alternate translation: “from the custody of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2380EXO363mtkrfigs-idiomבַּ⁠בֹּ֥קֶר בַּ⁠בֹּֽקֶר1whose heart stirred within him

This is an idiom meaning every morning or every day. Use a similar expression or translate the meaning. Alternate translation: “morning by morning” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2381EXO364b772figs-nominaladjהַ֣⁠חֲכָמִ֔ים1whose heart stirred within him

Here the adjective skilled is used as a noun in order to describe the group of craftsmen. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “the skilled workers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

2382EXO364pz6ufigs-idiomאִֽישׁ־אִ֥ישׁ1whose heart stirred within him

Here, every single man translates an idiom that cannot be rendered literally and sensibly in English. The original is ”a man a man.” If your language would use repetition to emphasize that each and every man came to see Moses, you can follow the original; otherwise use a phrase or structure that emphasizes that they all came. Alternate translation: “every man without exception” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2383EXO364gjrzfigs-gendernotationsאִֽישׁ־אִ֥ישׁ1whose heart stirred within him

As previously, noted, there were some women who contributed (particularly in the cloth crafts) so this use of man may include women. Alternate translation: “every single worker” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

2384EXO365tni7figs-quotationsוַ⁠יֹּאמְרוּ֙ אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֣ה לֵּ⁠אמֹ֔ר מַרְבִּ֥ים הָ⁠עָ֖ם לְ⁠הָבִ֑יא מִ⁠דֵּ֤י הָֽ⁠עֲבֹדָה֙ לַ⁠מְּלָאכָ֔ה אֲשֶׁר־צִוָּ֥ה יְהוָ֖ה לַ⁠עֲשֹׂ֥ת אֹתָֽ⁠הּ1The craftsmen told Moses…commanded us to do.”

If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this as an indirect quotation. 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]])

2385EXO366es1yfigs-quotationsאִ֣ישׁ וְ⁠אִשָּׁ֗ה אַל־יַעֲשׂוּ־ע֛וֹד מְלָאכָ֖ה לִ⁠תְרוּמַ֣ת הַ⁠קֹּ֑דֶשׁ1The craftsmen told Moses…commanded us to do.”

If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “that no one should bring any more contributions for the work of the Holy Place” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

2386EXO366k3g1figs-metonymyוַ⁠יַּעֲבִ֨ירוּ ק֥וֹל1The craftsmen told Moses…commanded us to do.”

Here, sound refers to the message. This means they spread Moses message orally. Alternate translation: “everyone to share this message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2387EXO366ak26figs-genericnounאִ֣ישׁ וְ⁠אִשָּׁ֗ה אַל־יַעֲשׂוּ1The craftsmen told Moses…commanded us to do.”

Here, man and woman is intended to mean everyone, or in this case because of the negation, no one. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “No one shall make” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])

2388EXO366k1qmמְלָאכָ֖ה1The craftsmen told Moses…commanded us to do.”

Here, work means the sorts of crafted items listed in the previous chapter.

2389EXO366utcwfigs-ellipsisמֵ⁠הָבִֽיא1The craftsmen told Moses…commanded us to do.”

In some languages you may need to provide an object for this sentence. Alternate translation: “from bringing contributions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

2390EXO367ipiuוְ⁠הַ⁠מְּלָאכָ֗ה1The craftsmen told Moses…commanded us to do.”

Here, work means the sorts of crafted items listed in the previous chapter.

2391EXO368kw330General Information:

Except for tense and the addition of every skilled of heart among the doers of the work, this verse is identical to Exodus 26:1.

2392EXO368l7ubfigs-synecdocheכָל־חֲכַם־לֵ֜ב1ten curtains made from fine linen

See how you translated this in 35:21. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

2393EXO368zz0wfigs-genericnounעָשָׂ֥ה1ten curtains made from fine linen

Throughout verses 8-38 the word he used. This is a generic noun referring to any of the team of skilled craftsmen. If this would be misunderstood in your language, use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “they made” or “a craftsman made” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])

2394EXO369p2mr0General Information:

This verse is identical to Exodus 26:2. Tense is implied.

2395EXO3610z6sq0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 26:3.

2396EXO3611yw910General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 26:4.

2397EXO3612k1qq0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 26:5.

2398EXO3613z2zi0General Information

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 26:6.

2399EXO3614m2ac0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 26:7.

2400EXO3615fa6i0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 26:8.

2401EXO3616wwj60General Information:

This verse is almost identical to the first sentence of Exodus 26:9.

2402EXO3617qt9b0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 26:10.

2403EXO3618mq1j0General Information:

This verse is similar to Exodus 26:11. The difference is the absence of the middle clause from 26:11.

2404EXO3619p3ke0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 26:14.

2405EXO3620t7390General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 26:15.

2406EXO3621prx50General Information:

This verse is identical to Exodus 26:16.

2407EXO3622l8yx0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 26:17.

2408EXO3623ev650General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 26:18.

2409EXO3624ln2x0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 26:19.

2410EXO3625w2wz0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 26:20.

2411EXO3626gbm90General Information:

This verse is identical to Exodus 26:21.

2412EXO3627a7js0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 26:22.

2413EXO3628hw9c0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 26:23.

2414EXO3629u3960General Information:

This verse is very similar to Exodus 26:24.

2415EXO3630mu5n0General Information:

This verse is very similar to Exodus 26:25.

2416EXO3630r252figs-explicitשְׁנֵ֤י אֲדָנִים֙ שְׁנֵ֣י אֲדָנִ֔ים תַּ֖חַת הַ⁠קֶּ֥רֶשׁ הָ⁠אֶחָֽד1and so on

The list formula from 26:25 is strangely shortened here but has the same meaning. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2417EXO3631cf2p0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 26:26.

2418EXO3632p4wd0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 26:27.

2419EXO3633h94y0General Information:

This verse is very similar to Exodus 26:28.

2420EXO3634i17v0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 26:29.

2421EXO3635pfc50General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 26:31.

2422EXO3636hg2q0General Information:

Aside from some verbal differences, this verse is very similar to Exodus 26:32.

2423EXO3637r5ya0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 26:36.

2424EXO3638pr670General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 26:37.

2425EXO37intromt990

Exodus 37 General Notes

Structure\r

\r

Potential translation issues

  • This chapter continues the record of the construction of the Dwelling and the items for it in almost exact repetition of Yahwehs instructions. Be sure to consult your previous work for consistency.
  • Throughout the chapter the word he is used. This is a generic noun referring to any of the team of skilled craftsmen. You could also change it to “they” if that would be understood better in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
2426EXO371byr30General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 25:10.

2427EXO372kb3s0General Information:

This verse is very similar to Exodus 25:11.

2428EXO373pb6v0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 25:12.

2429EXO374nr8y0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 25:13.

2430EXO375v9j70General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 25:14.

2431EXO376liw80General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 25:17.

2432EXO377nhi30General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 25:18.

2433EXO378g96y0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 25:19.

2434EXO379e6na0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 25:20.

2435EXO3710ktf80General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 25:23.

2436EXO3711l2kv0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 25:24.

2437EXO3712i1ba0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 25:25.

2438EXO3713b56c0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 25:26.

2439EXO3714tc3u0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 25:27.

2440EXO3715zkr80General Information:

This verse is very similar to Exodus 25:28.

2441EXO3716h5980General Information:

This verse is very similar to Exodus 25:29.

2442EXO3717edx60General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 25:31.

2443EXO3718kuh20General Information:

This verse is identical to Exodus 25:32.

2444EXO3719g1y90General Information:

This verse is identical to Exodus 25:33.

2445EXO3720nl540General Information:

This verse is identical to Exodus 25:34.

2446EXO3721x1u50General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 25:35.

2447EXO3722ks9z0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 25:36.

2448EXO3723b2jq0General Information:

This verse is almost identical with Exodus 25:37-38, excluding the purpose clause in v. 37 (“and it will hold up its lamps, and it will make light on the side of its face”).

2449EXO3724uz5h0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 25:39.

2450EXO3725el8w0General Information:

This verse is very similar to Exodus 30:1-2.

2451EXO3726ep660General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 30:3.

2452EXO3727zez20General Information:

This verse is very similar to Exodus 30:4.

2453EXO3728hw370General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 30:5.

2454EXO3729c9920General Information:

For the oil, see Exodus 30:25, and for the incense see 25:6 and 30:35.

2455EXO38introhp860

Exodus 38 General Notes

  • This chapter continues the record of the construction of the Dwelling and the items for it in almost exact repetition of Yahwehs instructions. Be sure to consult your previous work for consistency. Verses 1-20 of this chapter follow Exodus 27:1-19 almost verse for verse.
  • Throughout the chapter the word he is used. This is a generic noun referring to any of the team of skilled craftsmen. You could also change it to “they” if that would be understood better in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
2456EXO381r81c0General Information

This verse is very similar to Exodus 27:1.

2457EXO382g71x0General Information

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 27:2.

2458EXO383v73t0General Information

This verse is very similar to Exodus 27:3.

2459EXO384rx7v0General Information:

This verse is very similar to Exodus 27:4 and Exodus 27:5. One part of 27:4 is rearranged into 38:5.

2460EXO385kp6w0General Information:

This verse is very similar to the second half of Exodus 27:4.

2461EXO386l2580General Information:

This verse is very similar to Exodus 27:6.

2462EXO387ys630General Information:

This verse is very similar to Exodus 27:7 and the first part of 27:8.

2463EXO388e6gdוַ⁠יַּ֗עַשׂ אֵ֚ת הַ⁠כִּיּ֣וֹר נְחֹ֔שֶׁת וְ⁠אֵ֖ת כַּנּ֣⁠וֹ נְחֹ֑שֶׁת1large bronze basin with a bronze stand

This portion is almost identical to Exodus 30:18.

2464EXO388mdx9figs-explicitבְּ⁠מַרְאֹת֙1He made the basin out of mirrors

The bronze came from the mirrors. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “from the bronze mirrors” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2465EXO389clk60General Information:

This verse is similar to Exodus 27:9.

2466EXO3810nz6q0General Information

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 27:10.

2467EXO3811mp6n0General Information

This verse is very similar to Exodus 27:11.

2468EXO3811xl4cfigs-ellipsisמֵאָ֣ה בָֽ⁠אַמָּ֔ה1cubits

Here, “the curtains of the courtyard” and “long” are both omitted. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “the curtains of the courtyard were 100 cubits long” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

2469EXO3812g5iz0General Information

This verse is very similar to Exodus 27:12.

2470EXO3813iju30General Information

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 27:13.

2471EXO3814n1xj0General Information

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 27:14.

2472EXO3815dlq70General Information

This verse is very similar to Exodus 27:15.

2473EXO3817s5g50General Information

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 27:17.

2474EXO3818hmi50General Information

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 27:16 and 18.

2475EXO3818yf6ztranslate-bdistanceוְ⁠עֶשְׂרִ֤ים…חָמֵ֣שׁ1cubits

If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. A cubit is approximately 46cm. For your reference, a more precise conversion to metric is: 9.2m … 2.3m (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])

2476EXO3818trz5וְ⁠קוֹמָ֤ה בְ⁠רֹ֨חַב֙ חָמֵ֣שׁ אַמּ֔וֹת1The curtain was made of

This probably refers to the general dimensions (20 cubits long by 5 cubits wide) but clarifies that the width would become the height of the curtain when the craftsmen or Levites set up the Dwelling. Alternate translation: “and the width, which corresponded to the height when hung, was five cubits”

2477EXO3819fjw40General Information

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 27:17.

2478EXO3820ye5c0General Information

This verse is very similar to the second half of Exodus 27:19.

2479EXO3821k2exfigs-activepassiveאֲשֶׁ֥ר פֻּקַּ֖ד1as it was taken

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “which the Levites recorded” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2480EXO3821qivwfigs-idiomעַל־פִּ֣י מֹשֶׁ֑ה1Ithamar

This is an idiom referring to Moses telling them to make these records. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “following Moses instructions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2481EXO3821op5hfigs-metonymyבְּ⁠יַד֙ אִֽיתָמָ֔ר בֶּֽן־אַהֲרֹ֖ן הַ⁠כֹּהֵֽן1Ithamar

Here, by the hand of could mean: (1) Ithamar was in charge of the group that recorded these records (2) Ithamar was the scribe who actually wrote these records. Alternate translation: “under the direction of Ithamar son of Aaron the priest” or “written down by Ithamar son of Aaron the priest” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2482EXO3821ex1ttranslate-namesאִֽיתָמָ֔ר1Ithamar

Ithamar is the name of a man. See how you translated this name in Exodus 6:23. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2483EXO3822d86gtranslate-namesוּ⁠בְצַלְאֵ֛ל בֶּן־אוּרִ֥י בֶן־ח֖וּר1Bezalel son of Uri son of Hur

Bezalel, Uri, and Hur are the names of men. See how you translated these in Exodus 31:2. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2484EXO3822i4hafigs-ellipsisמֹשֶֽׁה1Yahweh had commanded Moses

This sentence leaves out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words. Alternate translation: “Moses to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

2485EXO3823f93btranslate-namesאָהֳלִיאָ֞ב בֶּן־אֲחִיסָמָ֛ךְ1Oholiab son of Ahisamak

Oholiab and Ahisamakare names of men. See how you translated these in Exodus 31:6. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2486EXO3823wvw4חָרָ֣שׁ וְ⁠חֹשֵׁ֑ב וְ⁠רֹקֵ֗ם בַּ⁠תְּכֵ֨לֶת֙ וּ⁠בָֽ⁠אַרְגָּמָ֔ן וּ⁠בְ⁠תוֹלַ֥עַת הַ⁠שָּׁנִ֖י וּ⁠בַ⁠שֵּֽׁשׁ1an engraver, as a skillful workman, and as an embroiderer

This is very similar to part of Exodus 35:35.

2487EXO3824tl4kfigs-activepassiveכָּל־הַ⁠זָּהָ֗ב הֶֽ⁠עָשׂוּי֙1All the gold that was used for the project

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “All the gold that the craftsmen used” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2488EXO3824y7hytranslate-bweightתֵּ֤שַׁע וְ⁠עֶשְׂרִים֙ כִּכָּ֔ר וּ⁠שְׁבַ֨ע מֵא֧וֹת וּ⁠שְׁלֹשִׁ֛ים שֶׁ֖קֶל בְּ⁠שֶׁ֥קֶל הַ⁠קֹּֽדֶשׁ1twenty-nine talents

A talent is about 34 kilograms, and a shekel is about 11 grams. There were evidently shekels of more than one weight at the time; by the shekel of the sanctuary specified which one was to be used. See how you translated this in Exodus 30:13. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

2489EXO3825ni5btranslate-bweightמְאַ֣ת כִּכָּ֑ר וְ⁠אֶלֶף֩ וּ⁠שְׁבַ֨ע מֵא֜וֹת וַ⁠חֲמִשָּׁ֧ה וְ⁠שִׁבְעִ֛ים שֶׁ֖קֶל בְּ⁠שֶׁ֥קֶל הַ⁠קֹּֽדֶשׁ1one hundred talents

A talent is about 34 kilograms, and a shekel is about 11 grams. There were evidently shekels of more than one weight at the time, by the shekel of the sanctuary specified which one was to be used. See the previous verse. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

2490EXO3826rp460one hundred talents

See how you translated many of the same things in Exodus 30:13-14.

2491EXO3826t2gitranslate-bweightבֶּ֚קַע לַ⁠גֻּלְגֹּ֔לֶת מַחֲצִ֥ית הַ⁠שֶּׁ֖קֶל בְּ⁠שֶׁ֣קֶל הַ⁠קֹּ֑דֶשׁ1one beka

A beka is 1/2 a shekel. A shekel is 11 grams. There were evidently shekels of more than one weight at the time; by the shekel of the sanctuary specified which one was to be used. See verse 24. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. Alternate translation: “five and a half grams” or “5 1/2 grams” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

2492EXO3826fyy5translate-fractionמַחֲצִ֥ית הַ⁠שֶּׁ֖קֶל1half a shekel

A half means one part out of two equal parts. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

2493EXO3826nvf8figs-ellipsisלְ⁠כֹ֨ל הָ⁠עֹבֵ֜ר עַל־הַ⁠פְּקֻדִ֗ים מִ⁠בֶּ֨ן עֶשְׂרִ֤ים שָׁנָה֙ וָ⁠מַ֔עְלָ⁠ה לְ⁠שֵׁשׁ־מֵא֥וֹת אֶ֨לֶף֙ וּ⁠שְׁלֹ֣שֶׁת אֲלָפִ֔ים וַ⁠חֲמֵ֥שׁ מֵא֖וֹת וַ⁠חֲמִשִּֽׁים1half a shekel

Here the account leaves out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. The idea that this silver was “received” from these “men” is left out. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “received from every passer over to the counted ones from a son of 20 years and older—received from 603,550 men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

2494EXO3826ll8bfigs-idiomמִ⁠בֶּ֨ן עֶשְׂרִ֤ים שָׁנָה֙1This figure was reached on the basis of every person who was counted in the census

This is an idiom meaning 20 years old. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “from those 20 years old” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2495EXO3827p7r5translate-bweightמְאַת֙ כִּכַּ֣ר1One hundred talents of silver were cast

A talent is about 34 kilograms. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

2496EXO3828nxf5figs-ellipsisהָ⁠אֶ֜לֶף וּ⁠שְׁבַ֤ע הַ⁠מֵּאוֹת֙ וַ⁠חֲמִשָּׁ֣ה וְ⁠שִׁבְעִ֔ים1Bezalel

Here the words shekels of silver have been omitted because they are understood from verse 25. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “the 1,775 shekels of silver” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

2497EXO3828rcda0Bezalel

See how you translated some of these in Exodus 27:17.

2498EXO3829p3mrtranslate-bweightשִׁבְעִ֣ים כִּכָּ֑ר וְ⁠אַלְפַּ֥יִם וְ⁠אַרְבַּע־מֵא֖וֹת שָֽׁקֶל1seventy talents and 2,400 shekels

A talent is about 34 kilograms, and a shekel is about 11 grams. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

2499EXO3830rck7מִכְבַּ֥ר1grate

A grate is a frame of crossed bars for holding wood when burning. See how you translated this in Exodus 27:4.

2500EXO3831bvr9יִתְדֹ֧ת…יִתְדֹ֥ת1tent 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.

2501EXO39intromll60

Exodus 39 General Notes

  • This chapter continues the record of the construction in almost exact repetition of Yahwehs instructions. The special, holy clothing mentioned in previous chapters is produced to the correct specifications in this chapter. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]]) Be sure to consult your previous work to maintain consistency. Verses 1-31 of this chapter follow Exodus 28:1-37 with some differences. Verses 33-41 follow 35:10-19.
  • Throughout the chapter the people making the items are referred to interchangeably as he or they. Both are generic nouns referring to any of the team of skilled craftsmen. You could change all instances to “they” or “he” if that would be understood better in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
2502EXO391h8kg0as Yahweh had commanded Moses

See how you translated similar instructions in Exodus 28:4-5.

2503EXO391e1xhfigs-abstractnounsבִּגְדֵ֤י הַ⁠קֹּ֨דֶשׁ֙1as Yahweh had commanded Moses

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of holiness, you could express the same idea in another way. See how you translated this in 28:2. Alternate translation: “the holy clothes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2504EXO392b9mg0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 28:6.

2505EXO394pq620Connecting Statement:

This verse is very similar to 28:7.

2506EXO395g75w0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 28:8.

2507EXO396k7vw0General Information:

See how you translated many of these words in Exodus 28:9 and especially Exodus 28:11. Here, as there, the sons of Israel literally means the twelve sons, Rueben through Benjamin, not the Israelite nation.

2508EXO397ize60General Information:

This verse is almost identical to the first half of Exodus 28:12.

2509EXO398mlf60General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 28:15; a few words are omitted here.

2510EXO399lkt10General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 28:16; a few words are added or repeated here.

2511EXO3910m54c0They set in it

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 28:17.

2512EXO3911qx960an emerald, a sapphire, and a diamond

This verse is identical to Exodus 28:18.

2513EXO3912kk8t0a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst

This verse is identical to Exodus 28:19.

2514EXO3913l9wa0a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 28:20.

2515EXO3914z5va0General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 28:21.

2516EXO3915byz80General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 28:22.

2517EXO3916b8m60General Information:

This verse is very similar to Exodus 28:23-24.

2518EXO3917w2s40General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 28:24.

2519EXO3918bw760General Information:

This verse is identical to Exodus 28:25 except for verb tense.

2520EXO3919nd410General Information:

This verse is identical to Exodus 28:26 except for verb tense.

2521EXO3920w8wz0General Information:

This verse is identical to Exodus 28:27 except for verb tense.

2522EXO3921zu910General Information:

This verse is almost identical to Exodus 28:28 except for the note about Yahwehs command.

2523EXO3922vdw10General Information:

This verse is almost identical to most of Exodus 28:31-32.

2524EXO3923cyc10General Information:

This verse is very similar to Exodus 28:32.

2525EXO3924eak60General Information:

This verse is similar to part of Exodus 28:33.

2526EXO3925sx9b0General Information:

This verse is similar to parts of Exodus 28:33.

2527EXO3926gtg50General Information:

The first part of this verse is almost identical to the first part of Exodus 28:34.

2528EXO3927pz630General Information:

Verses 27-29 reflect Exodus 28:39, 40, and 42 but in a different order.

2529EXO3928um4e0turban

Verses 27-29 reflect Exodus 28:39, 40, and 42 but in a different order.

2530EXO3929hn5g0sash

Verses 27-29 reflect Exodus 28:39, 40, and 42 but in a different order.

2531EXO3930kq330General Information:

This verse is almost identical Exodus 28:36. See 29:6 for the crown of holiness.

2532EXO3931fml20General Information:

This verse is very similar to Exodus 28:37.

2533EXO3932jh64writing-endofstory0General Information:

This verse marks the end of the narrative of the construction of the Dwelling. More precisely, it seems to mark the beginning of an ending section. Use the natural form in your language for expressing the conclusion of a story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory]])

2534EXO3932z1z7figs-doubletמִשְׁכַּ֖ן אֹ֣הֶל מוֹעֵ֑ד1So the work on the Dwelling, the tent of meeting, was finished. The people of Israel did everything

The tabernacle and tent of meeting are the same thing. The two interchangeable terms are brought together here in a poetic doubling to bring this part of the narrative to a close. If your readers would find this confusing you may need to simplify to one or expand in explanation like in the UST. Alternate translation: “holy meeting tent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

2535EXO3932et19figs-parallelismוַֽ⁠יַּעֲשׂוּ֙ בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל כְּ֠⁠כֹל אֲשֶׁ֨ר צִוָּ֧ה יְהוָ֛ה אֶת־מֹשֶׁ֖ה כֵּ֥ן עָשֽׂוּ1So the work on the Dwelling, the tent of meeting, was finished. The people of Israel did everything

Here, thus they did parallels the whole rest of the sentence. Like the doubling of the terms for tabernacle this brings the narrative of building to an emphatic conclusion. If this sort of parallelism would convey a meaning other than this emphatic conclusion in your language you may need to use another natural way to close the narrative with emphasis on the Israelites complete obedience. Alternate translation: “And the sons of Israel faithfully did exactly according to all that Yahweh had commanded Moses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

2536EXO3933ri54writing-newevent0So the work on the Dwelling, the tent of meeting, was finished. The people of Israel did everything

This verse starts a short narrative of the Israelites bringing and presenting the items for the Dwelling to Moses for inspection. It is a summary of the construction and extended conclusion to the last few chapters. Your team may need to decide how to group verse 32, as it both closes the construction narrative and introduces this next section, which ends with a very similar summary statement in verses 42-43. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

2537EXO3933y9ym0clasps

This verse, especially the list of items, is very similar to 35:11.

2538EXO3934z6r6וְ⁠אֶת־מִכְסֵ֞ה עוֹרֹ֤ת הָֽ⁠אֵילִם֙ הַ⁠מְאָדָּמִ֔ים וְ⁠אֶת־מִכְסֵ֖ה עֹרֹ֣ת הַ⁠תְּחָשִׁ֑ים1the covering of ram skins dyed red, the covering of fine leather

See how you translated similar phrases to this in Exodus 26:14.

2539EXO3934l0fiפָּרֹ֥כֶת הַ⁠מָּסָֽךְ1the covering of ram skins dyed red, the covering of fine leather

See how you translated similar phrases to this in 35:12.

2540EXO3935i7d90atonement lid

See how you translated similar phrases to this in 35:12.

2541EXO3936knn80bread of the presence

This verse is almost identical to 35:13.

2542EXO3937nzph0bread of the presence

This verse is very similar to 35:14.

2543EXO3938elv10bread of the presence

This verse is very similar to 35:15.

2544EXO3939e7550grate

This verse is almost identical with 35:16.

2545EXO3940i8lm0Connecting Statement:

This verse is almost identical with 35:17 and parts of 35:18.

2546EXO3940ajt4figs-doubletהַ⁠מִּשְׁכָּ֖ן לְ⁠אֹ֥הֶל מוֹעֵֽד1the Dwelling, the tent of meeting

These refer to the same place. See how you translated the doubling in verse 32. Alternate translation: “the Dwelling, that is the tent of meeting” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

2547EXO3941z3ip0the Dwelling, the tent of meeting

This verse is identical to 35:19.

2548EXO3942ct6k0Thus the people

This verse is almost identical to the second half of verse 32.

2549EXO3943t26mוְ⁠הִנֵּה֙1behold

Here, the word behold draws attention to the information that follows. Use a word or marking in your language that draws attention to the next information.

2550EXO3943z79swriting-endofstory0As Yahweh had commanded, in that way they did it

This (and really verse 42) is the end of the conclusion of the construction of materials portion of the story. The ending began in verse 32. If your language has specific features that should be part of the end of a section like this, consider using them here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory]])

2551EXO40introfa6e0

Exodus 40 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

  • In this chapter, just as Yahweh commanded Moses is repeated seven times, as in the previous chapter, to show that Moses was obedient to every detail of Yahwehs command.
  • This chapter is repetitive both internally and with other parts of the book. Verses 17-33 parallel verses 2-8 in an expanded way.

Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter

  • The Dwelling and tent of meeting are the same thing, but both appear next to each other many times in this chapter. The two interchangeable terms are brought together throughout this chapter in a poetic doubling to bring book to a close. If your readers would find this confusing, you may need to simplify to one or expand in explanation like in the UST.
  • This chapter says that Moses did all these things. Just like with Bezalel in earlier chapters, it would have been impossible for him to do all this personally. The people helped him set up the Dwelling. In many translations this will more clear if you make this explicit.
  • “the glory of Yahweh filled the Dwelling”: This phrase indicates that Yahweh began to dwell within the Dwelling, among Israel, in a special way. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/glory]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/tabernacle]])
2552EXO401ea7jwriting-newevent0

There is a transition to a new event at the beginning of this chapter. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a new event. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

2553EXO402bgv1translate-ordinalבְּ⁠יוֹם־הַ⁠חֹ֥דֶשׁ הָ⁠רִאשׁ֖וֹן בְּ⁠אֶחָ֣ד לַ⁠חֹ֑דֶשׁ1

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “On day one of the month, in month one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

2554EXO402gzk3figs-doubletמִשְׁכַּ֖ן אֹ֥הֶל מוֹעֵֽד1the first day of the first month of the new year

These refer to the same place. See how you translated the doubling in 39:32. Alternate translation: “the Dwelling, that is the tent of meeting” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

2555EXO402clkffigs-ellipsisלַ⁠חֹ֑דֶשׁ1the first day of the first month of the new year

Here, the new or next year is omitted because it can be inferred from context. However, if that would be misunderstood by your readers (perhaps they would think it just meant ”next month” or something), you could add a phrase to make it clear that it is the first month of the year. This refers to exactly one year after God rescued his people from Egypt. See Exodus 12:2. Alternate translation: “month of the year” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

2556EXO403l7fpוְ⁠סַכֹּתָ֥ עַל1place the ark of the testimony in it

Alternate translation: “and you shall conceal”

2557EXO405b3ctfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֖י1place the ark of the testimony in it

Alternate translation: “in front of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2558EXO406o5szfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֕י1place the ark of the testimony in it

Alternate translation: “in front of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2559EXO406nqhafigs-doubletמִשְׁכַּ֥ן אֹֽהֶל־מוֹעֵֽד1place the ark of the testimony in it

These refer to the same place. See how you translated the doubling in 39:32. Alternate translation: “the Dwelling, that is the tent of meeting” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

2560EXO4010yiq8figs-possessionקֹ֥דֶשׁ קָֽדָשִֽׁים1General Information:

Here, holiest holy means extremely or uniquely holy. If this form would not express that this item would become uniquely holy in your language you may need to find another way to express this idea. See how you translated this in Exodus 29:37. Alternate translation: “a most holy thing” or “extraordinarily holy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

2561EXO4012gqld0General Information:

Verses 12-15 are similar to Exodus 29:4-9.

2562EXO4016xl61writing-newevent0General Information:

This statement starts a new section in which Moses does all the things just as Yahweh had commanded; this poetic obedience statement was seen so often in the previous chapter. You may wish to mark this transition and poetic statement in a particular way in your language that is similar to how you did in the last chapter. See 39:32. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

2563EXO4017r6pcfigs-activepassiveהוּקַ֖ם הַ⁠מִּשְׁכָּֽן1So the Dwelling was set up

The use of the passive here indicates that the important thing is the completion of the task of setting up the tent on the specific date Yahweh had commanded. If your language would show that focus in a different way, use a natural form to do that. Alternate translation: “that they set up the Dwelling” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2564EXO4017gzu5בַּ⁠חֹ֧דֶשׁ הָ⁠רִאשׁ֛וֹן בַּ⁠שָּׁנָ֥ה הַ⁠שֵּׁנִ֖ית בְּ⁠אֶחָ֣ד לַ⁠חֹ֑דֶשׁ1the first day of the first month

This refers to exactly one year after God rescued his people from Egypt. See Exodus 12:2.

2565EXO4017wnh8translate-ordinalבַּ⁠חֹ֧דֶשׁ הָ⁠רִאשׁ֛וֹן בַּ⁠שָּׁנָ֥ה הַ⁠שֵּׁנִ֖ית בְּ⁠אֶחָ֣ד1in the second year

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: “in month one, year two, on day one of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

2566EXO4018kk4nfigs-metonymyוַ⁠יָּ֨קֶם מֹשֶׁ֜ה אֶת־הַ⁠מִּשְׁכָּ֗ן וַ⁠יִּתֵּן֙ אֶת־אֲדָנָ֔י⁠ו1Moses set up

Moses was the leader. It would have been impossible for him to do all this personally; the people helped him set up the Dwelling. All references to Moses from here to all the Dwelling assembly listing through verse 33 can be understood this way. Alternate translation: “And Moses directed the people to raise up the Dwelling, and they placed its bases”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2567EXO4020chx4writing-pronounsוַ⁠יִּקַּ֞ח…וַ⁠יָּ֥שֶׂם1Moses set up

In this verse and the next, there may be an exception to the word he meaning someone who was helping Moses, because these items were especially sacred. If you have been using a form that indicates that people are helping Moses construct the Dwelling, you may consider switching to “Moses” here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

2568EXO4021yhbswriting-pronounsוַ⁠יָּבֵ֣א…וַ⁠יָּ֗שֶׂם1Moses set up

In this verse and the previous verse, there may be an exception to the word he meaning someone who was helping Moses, because these items were especially sacred. If you have been using a form that indicates that people are helping Moses construct the Dwelling, you may consider switching to “Moses” here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])

2569EXO4023b3ppfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֣י1Moses set up

Alternate translation: “in the presence of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2570EXO4025t2o2figs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֣י1Moses set up

Alternate translation: “in the presence of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2571EXO4026i5ggfigs-metonymyלִ⁠פְנֵ֖י1in front of the curtain

Alternate translation: “in front of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2572EXO4027iwuo0in front of the curtain

See 30:7.

2573EXO4035ysd8וְ⁠לֹא־יָכֹ֣ל מֹשֶׁ֗ה לָ⁠בוֹא֙ אֶל־אֹ֣הֶל מוֹעֵ֔ד כִּֽי־שָׁכַ֥ן עָלָ֖י⁠ו הֶ⁠עָנָ֑ן וּ⁠כְב֣וֹד יְהוָ֔ה מָלֵ֖א אֶת־הַ⁠מִּשְׁכָּֽן1Yahwehs glory filled

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: “Because the cloud had settled on it and the glory of Yahweh had filled the Dwelling, Moses was not able to go into the tent of meeting.”

2574EXO4036ak35figs-activepassiveוּ⁠בְ⁠הֵעָל֤וֹת הֶֽ⁠עָנָן֙1was taken up from over

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Whenever Yahwehs cloud moved” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2575EXO4037s8y2figs-activepassiveוְ⁠אִם־לֹ֥א יֵעָלֶ֖ה הֶ⁠עָנָ֑ן וְ⁠לֹ֣א יִסְע֔וּ עַד־י֖וֹם הֵעָלֹתֽ⁠וֹ1that it was lifted up

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “but if Yahweh did not take up the cloud, then they would not set out until the day he took it up.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2576EXO4038i8hufigs-metonymyלְ⁠עֵינֵ֥י כָל־בֵּֽית־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל1that it was lifted up

Here, before the eyes of refers to being able to see. All the Israelites could see the cloud and fire. Alternate translation: “and all the house of Israel could see it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2577EXO4038bhi5figs-metaphorבֵּֽית־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל1that it was lifted up

Here, house represents a people group, the Israelites, who were descended from Jacob, who was also named Israel. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could use a metaphor from your language or translate the meaning. This is a common biblical metaphor, so you may want to check other places this occurs. The house of Israel is equivalent to “sons of Israel” or “Israelites.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])