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Introduction to Galatians

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the Book of Galatians

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

Who wrote the Book of Galatians?

Paul wrote the book of Galatians. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he began to trust in Jesus Christ, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus and establishing churches.

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

What is the Book of Galatians about?

Paul wrote this letter to both Jewish and non-Jewish Christians in the region of Galatia. He wanted to write against the false teachers who said that Christians need to follow the law of Moses. Paul defended the gospel by explaining that a person is saved by believing in Jesus Christ. In the book of Galatians Paul explains that people are saved as result of believing in Jesus and not as a result of obeying the law of Moses and he proves this by using various Old Testament passages to illustrate this truth. (See: [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/goodnews]], [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/save]], [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/works]])

How should the title of this book be translated?

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

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

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

To “live like Jews” means to obey the law of Moses, even though one trusts in Christ. The people who taught that it was necessary to follow the law of Moses in addition to believing in Jesus were called “Judaizers.”

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

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

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

What did Paul mean by the expressions “in Christ,” and “in Christ Jesus?”

Paul uses the spatial metaphor “in Christ” or the related phrase “in Christ Jesus” very frequently in this letter. This expression occurs with a metaphorical meaning in 1:22; 2:4,17; 3:14, 26, 28; and 5:6. Paul meant to express the idea of a very close union between Christ and the people who believe in him. This metaphor emphasizes that believers are as closely united to Christ as if they were inside him. Paul believes that this is true for all believers, and sometimes he uses “in Christ” simply to identify that what he is speaking about is true for those who believe in Jesus such as in 2:4. Other times, he emphasizes union with Christ as the means or the basis for some statement or exhortation. Sometimes when Paul uses the phrase “in Christ” he intends a different meaning. See, for example, 2:16 where Paul says “we also believed in Christ Jesus, so that we might be justified by faith in Christ” and see 2:17 where Paul spoke of Christ being the object of faith when he said “when we seek for God to justify us in Christ.” See the notes on specific verses for help in understanding the contextual meaning of “in Christ” and related phrases. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

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

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

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

Structure and formatting

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

Special concepts in this chapter

Heresy

God eternally saves people only through the true, biblical gospel. God condemns any other version of the gospel. Paul asks God to curse those who teach a false gospel. (See: [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/save]], [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/eternity]], [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/goodnews]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/condemn]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/curse]])

Pauls qualifications

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

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“You are turning so quickly to a different gospel”

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

41:1o4nsΠαῦλος1

Here, Paul is introducing himself as the author of this letter. Your language may have a particular way of introducing the author of a letter. Use that here. Alternate translation: “This letter is from me, Paul”

51:1uhhprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123personΠαῦλος1

Paul is speaking of himself in the third person. If this is confusing in your language, you can use the first person. Alternate translation: “This letter is from me, Paul” or “I, Paul” (See: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person)

61:1m4ssrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegativesοὐκ ἀπ’ ἀνθρώπων, οὐδὲ δι’ ἀνθρώπου1

General Information:

If your readers would misunderstand this double negative, you could translate this phrase using only one negative word. Alternate translation: “not from men or through man” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

71:1rcnwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitοὐκ ἀπ’ ἀνθρώπων1

Here, the word from indicates source. The phrase not from men means that humans are not the source of Pauls apostleship and that he was not commissioned or appointed an apostle by humans. If it would help your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “not through the commissioning of humans” or “not through human commission” or “not sent out by people” or “not because I was appointed and sent by a group of people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

81:1yqmarc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsἀνθρώπων & ἀνθρώπου1

Although the terms men and man are masculine, Paul uses them here in a generic sense to refer to humans in general. Alternate translation: “humans … humans” or “people … a person” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

91:1k2dwδι’ ἀνθρώπου, ἀλλὰ διὰ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, καὶ Θεοῦ Πατρὸς1

Both times that the word through is used in this verse it indicates agency/means and refers to the agency/means by which Pauls was commissioned as an apostle. Choose the best word in your language to indicate the meaning of the word through here. Alternate translation: “through the agency of man, but through the agency of Jesus Christ and God the Father”

101:1pvdprc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrastἀλλὰ1

Here, the word but introduces a contrast between different potential agents or means of Pauls commission. The word but is introducing a contrast between Pauls apostleship being not through man but rather being through Jesus Christ and God the Father. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “but rather” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

111:1fyu8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguishΘεοῦ Πατρὸς τοῦ ἐγείραντος αὐτὸν ἐκ νεκρῶν1

The phrase the one having raised him from the dead gives further information about God the Father. It is not making a distinction between God the Father and the one having raised him from the dead as if they are two separate entities. If this is not understood in your language, you can make the relationship between these phrases more clear. Alternate translation: “God the Father who is the same one who made Jesus Christ live again after he died” or “God the Father who caused Jesus Christ to live again after he had died” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])

121:1wmljrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfoΘεοῦ Πατρὸς1

Here, the phrase the Father could be (1) a general title for God which identifies him as the first person in the Christian Trinity. If you choose this option then you should not define whose Father God is in your translation but rather you should use a more an expression like the ULT does. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo]]) (2) referring to Gods relationship to those who believe in Christ. Alternate translation: “God our Father”

131:1w3grrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjἐκ νεκρῶν1

Paul is using the adjective dead as a noun in order to indicate a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this with an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: “from among the people who have died” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

141:1g5asrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐκ νεκρῶν1

Here, the phrase the dead could be a figurative way of referring to a place, in which case it would be referring to “the place of the dead” or “the realm of the dead.” If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “from the place of the dead” or “from the realm of the dead” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

151:2d737rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsἀδελφοί1

Here, although the term brothers is masculine, Paul is using it in a generic sense to refer to fellow Christians, which includes both men and women. Paul views all those who believe in Jesus, as members of one spiritual family, with God as their heavenly Father. If your readers would misunderstand the use of brothers in this context, you can indicate explicitly what it means. Alternate translation: “fellow believers” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

161:2wmd2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitΓαλατίας1

Here, the word Galatia could refer to: (1) the Roman political province called Galatia. Alternate translation: “in the province of Galatia” or (2) the geographical region known as Galatia. Alternate translation: “in the region of Galatia” If it would help your readers you could state explicitly what the word Galatia refers to here. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

171:2aa9vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possessionτῆς Γαλατίας1

Paul uses the possessive form here to describe churches that are in Roman political province called Galatia or in the geographical region known as Galatia. If this use of the possessive form is not clear in your language, you could clarify the meaning using a form that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “in the province of Galatia” or “in the region of Galatia” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

181:3nxtzrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessingχάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη1

This is a common blessing that Paul often uses in the beginning of his letters. Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing in your language. Alternate translation: “May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing]])

191:3psjzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsχάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη ἀπὸ Θεοῦ Πατρὸς καὶ Κυρίου ἡμῶν Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of Grace and peace, you could express the idea behind the abstract nouns grace and peace with adjectives such as “gracious” and “peaceful.” Alternate translation: “May God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ be gracious to you and make you peaceful” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

201:3nykrrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youὑμῖν1

Here, the word you is plural and refers to the Galatians. Unless noted otherwise, all instances of “you” and “your” in this letter refer to the Galatians and are plural. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

211:3c1xfΘεοῦ Πατρὸς1

See how you chose to translate the phrase God the Father in 1:1.

221:3eivdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveἡμῶν1

Here, the word our refers to Paul, the believers in Galatia, and all believers in Jesus and so is inclusive. Your language may require you to mark this form. In this book, unless otherwise stated, the word “our” refers to Paul, the believers in Galatia, and all believers and is inclusive. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

231:4onj6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguishτοῦ δόντος ἑαυτὸν περὶ τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν ἡμῶν, ὅπως ἐξέληται ἡμᾶς ἐκ τοῦ αἰῶνος τοῦ ἐνεστῶτος πονηροῦ1

The phrase the one having given himself for our sins so that he might deliver us from the present evil age gives us further information about “our Lord Jesus Christ.” It is not making a distinction between them as if they were two different entities. If this might confuse your readers, you can make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “who is the one having given himself for our sins so that he might deliver us from the present evil age” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])

241:4yk9grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyπερὶ τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν ἡμῶν1

Here, sins figuratively refers to the punishment for sin and the phrase for our sins refers to Christ giving his life “as a substitution for the punishment that our sins deserved.” If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “as a substitution for the punishment that our sins deserved” or “to take the punishment we deserved because of our sins” or “to take the punishment for our sins” or “as a substitution for the punishment that our sins deserved” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

251:4f2pmἡμῶν & ἡμῶν1

See the note on our in 1:3.

261:4haibrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsτῶν ἁμαρτιῶν ἡμῶν1

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of sins, you could express the same idea with an adjective such as “sinful,” as modeled by the UST, or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

271:4d8m2rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goalὅπως1

The phrase so that introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which Christ gave himself for our sins. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order that” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])

281:4f6d5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐκ τοῦ αἰῶνος τοῦ ἐνεστῶτος πονηροῦ1

Here, the phrase the present evil age, refers not only to a time period but also refers to the sinful attitudes and actions that characterize the present evil age. If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “from this present time that is dominated by sinfulness” or “from this present evil age with its evil attitudes and desires” or “from the evil powers at work in the world today” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

291:4mg01rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguishτοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ Πατρὸς ἡμῶν1

The phrase and Father gives further information about our God. It is not making a distinction between God and Father as if they are two separate entities. If this is not understood in your language, you can make the relationship between these words more clear. Alternate translation: “of our God who is our Father” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])

301:5y7mjrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἡ δόξα1

The phrase be the glory is an expression of praise. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of glory, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “praise”, as modeled by the UST, or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

311:5mijurc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterateἀμήν1

Amen is a Hebrew word. Paul spelled it out using Greek letters so his readers would know how it sounded. He assumes that they know that it means “so be it” or “yes indeed.” In your translation, you can spell it the way it sounds in your language. If your readers would not know what Amen means, you could also explain its meaning. Alternate translation: “Amen, which means, So be it!’” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate]])

321:6f74pθαυμάζω1

Alternate translation: “I am surprised” or “I am shocked”

331:6v438rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitοὕτως ταχέως, μετατίθεσθε1

Here, the phrase turning away means “to desert” and refers to turning ones heart or mind away from believing and following something. If it would help your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “you are so quickly deserting” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

341:6ficfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitμετατίθεσθε1

The phrase you are turning away is in the present tense and is portraying the action of turning away as in process, but not yet completed. Make sure that you express this phrase in your language in a way that shows that the Galatians turning away is currently happening but not complete. (Paul is writing this letter in order to encourage the Galatians to not turn away to a different gospel).

351:6cw1jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitοὕτως ταχέως1

Here, the phrase so quickly means that the Galatians were turning away from faith in the true gospel shortly after they accepted it. If it would help your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “from the true gospel so soon after accepting it” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

361:6ht94rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἀπὸ τοῦ καλέσαντος ὑμᾶς1

Here, the phrase the one refers to “God.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “and from God, who is the one who has called you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

371:6qy93rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitκαλέσαντος1

Here, the phrase called refers to being “chosen” by God. If it would help your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “having chosen” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

381:6ghhsἐν1

Here, the word in could (1) refer to the Galatians being called “into” the sphere or realm of grace. Alternate translation: “into” or “to live in” (2) refer to the means by which the Galatians were saved. Alternate translation: “by” or “through”

391:6cizkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsχάριτι1

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of grace, you could express the same idea with an adverb such as “graciously”, as modeled by the UST, or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

401:7l5eprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisἄλλο1

Paul 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: “another gospel” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

411:7rg69rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptionsεἰ μή τινές εἰσιν οἱ ταράσσοντες ὑμᾶς, καὶ θέλοντες μεταστρέψαι τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τοῦ Χριστοῦ1

If, in your language, the use of the word except makes it appear as if Paul is making a statement and then contradicting it, you could reword this to avoid using an exception clause. Alternate translation: “instead certain people are causing you trouble and want to pervert the gospel of Christ” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions]])

421:7wnfeτινές1

Alternate translation: “certain people”

431:7kswurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsταράσσοντες ὑμᾶς1

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of trouble, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “troubling,” or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “troubling you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

441:7tec2μεταστρέψαι1

Alternate translation: “to twist the truth of” or “to change”

451:7k9d1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possessionτὸ εὐαγγέλιον τοῦ Χριστοῦ1

By using the possessive form here, Paul is either using it to: (1) describe the gospel that is about Christ, in which case the possessive form is being used to describe the content of the gospel. Alternate translation: “the gospel about Christ” (2) designate Christ as the one who proclaimed the gospel message he is referring to in which case Paul is referring to the gospel message that Christ preached. Alternate translation: “the gospel that Christ proclaimed” or “the gospel that Christ preached” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

461:8rltxrc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypotheticalκαὶ ἐὰν ἡμεῖς ἢ ἄγγελος ἐξ οὐρανοῦ εὐαγγελίζηται ὑμῖν παρ’ ὃ εὐηγγελισάμεθα ὑμῖν, ἀνάθεμα ἔστω1

The word if introduces a hypothetical situation. Paul is using a hypothetical situation to warn the Galatians against any teaching that is contrary to the original gospel message that they were taught. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a hypothetical situation. Alternate translation: “if it were to happen that we or an angel from heaven might proclaim to you a gospel other than the one we proclaimed to you, let whoever would do that be cursed” or “suppose it were to happen that we or an angel from heaven might proclaim to you a gospel other than the one we proclaimed to you, let whoever would do that be cursed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]])

471:8wnx5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveἡμεῖς1

When Paul says we, he is not including the Galatians, so we would be exclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

481:8ebyiἡμεῖς1

Alternate translation: “I or my co-laborers in the gospel”

491:8f1efεὐαγγελίζηται ὑμῖν1

Alternate translation: “proclaim to you a gospel message” or “a message of good news”

501:8s5uqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitπαρ’ ὃ εὐηγγελισάμεθα1

Here, the phrase the one refers to the gospel message that Paul and his co-laborers had proclaimed to the Galatians. If your readers might misunderstand this you can state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “different from the gospel we proclaimed” or “different from the message we proclaimed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

511:8xb2cἀνάθεμα ἔστω1

If your language has a common way of asking God to curse someone, or of calling down a curse on someone, and it would be appropriate to use in this context, consider using it here.

521:8kv9hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἀνάθεμα ἔστω1

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of someone being cursed, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “curse.” Alternate translation: “let God curse him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

531:8pifkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀνάθεμα ἔστω1

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. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” is the one who will do it. Alternate translation: “let God curse him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

541:8g7zzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsἀνάθεμα ἔστω1

Although the term him is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “let God curse that person” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

551:9anxerc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveπροειρήκαμεν1

When Paul says we, he is not including the Galatians, so we would be exclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

561:9h1htrc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypotheticalεἴ τις ὑμᾶς εὐαγγελίζεται1

The word If introduces a hypothetical situation. Paul is using a hypothetical situation to warn the Galatians against any teaching that is contrary to the original gospel message that they were taught. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a hypothetical situation. Alternate translation: “If it were to happen that someone proclaims to you a gospel” or “Suppose it were to happen that someone proclaims to you a gospel” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]])

571:9i2wkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitπαρ’ ὃ1

See how you translated the phrase other than the one in 1:8. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

581:9mrv9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀνάθεμα ἔστω1

See how you translated the phrase let him be cursed in 1:8. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

591:9eta3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsἀνάθεμα ἔστω1

Although the term him is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. See how you translated the phrase let him be cursed in 1:8. Alternate translation: “let God curse that person” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

601:10ifodrc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrasesγὰρ1

Here, the word For is being used to introduce Pauls argument against an implied assertion that he altered the content of his gospel message in order to make it more acceptable to people. If it would help your readers, you could express the implied assertion explicitly as modeled by the UST. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])

611:10b2vcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionἄρτι γὰρ ἀνθρώπους πείθω ἢ τὸν Θεόν? ἢ ζητῶ ἀνθρώποις ἀρέσκειν1

By using these two rhetorical questions Paul is not asking the Galatians for information, but is using the question form for emphasis and to engage his readers thinking. 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: “For I do not seek to persuade men, but instead I only seek the approval of God! I am not seeking to please men!” or “For I do not seek the approval of men, but instead I only seek the approval of God! I am not seeking to please men!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

621:10xhrnrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsἄρτι & ἀνθρώπους πείθω ἢ τὸν Θεόν? ἢ ζητῶ ἀνθρώποις ἀρέσκειν? εἰ ἔτι ἀνθρώποις ἤρεσκον1

Although the term men is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women, and refers to “people” in general. Alternate translation: “do I now persuade people, or God? Or do I seek to please people? If I were still pleasing people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

631:10fl3crc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypotheticalεἰ ἔτι ἀνθρώποις ἤρεσκον, Χριστοῦ δοῦλος οὐκ ἂν ἤμην1

The word if introduces a hypothetical condition. Paul is using a hypothetical situation to teach the Galatians. Use the natural form in your language for introducing a hypothetical situation or if it would help your readers you can state Pauls meaning in plain language. Alternate translation: “I am not still trying to please men because I am a servant of Christ” or “If I were still pleasing people, then I would not be serving Christ” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]])

641:11xve4rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrasesγὰρ1

Here, the word For is used to introduce a supporting statement that further supports and gives reason for Pauls prior statement. Use a form that would be natural in your language for introducing a statement that supports a prior statement. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])

651:11cnicrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsἀδελφοί1

Although the term brothers is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women and refers to those who believe in Jesus. Alternate translation: “fellow believers” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

661:11o5curc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτὸ εὐαγγελισθὲν ὑπ’ ἐμοῦ1

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: “that I proclaimed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

671:11hew1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsὅτι οὐκ ἔστιν κατὰ ἄνθρωπον1

Although the term man is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women, and refers to “humans.” Alternate translation: “did not come from a human” or “is not a human message” or “is not a message that people made up” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

681:12zfxjrc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrasesγὰρ1

Here, the word For could be being used to introduce: (1) the grounds or basis for Pauls assertion in 1:11, in which case what follows the word For is support for what Paul said in 1:11. Use a form that would be natural for introducing a statement which gives supporting evidence. Alternate translation: “In support of my claim that the gospel I proclaimed is not according to man, I want you to know that” (2) a statement which explains and builds on Pauls assertion in 1:11. Use a form that would be natural for introducing a statement which further clarifies and explains a prior statement. Alternate translation: “To explain further, I want you to know” or “That is” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])

691:12kdolrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismοὐδὲ & ἐγὼ παρὰ ἀνθρώπου παρέλαβον αὐτό, οὔτε ἐδιδάχθην1

The phrase I did not receive it from man and the phrase nor was I taught it 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: “I did not receive the gospel that I proclaim from any person” or “no human being taught me the gospel that I proclaim” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

701:12er9crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsἀνθρώπου1

Although the term man is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women, and refers to “humans.” See how you translated the word man in 1:11 where it is used with a similar meaning. Alternate translation: “people” or “humans” or “a human source” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

711:12y2amrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐδιδάχθην1

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

721:12hlg6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitαὐτό & ἐδιδάχθην1

Here, both occurrences of the word it refer back to “the gospel” which Paul “proclaimed” which he mentioned in 1:11. If it would help your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “the gospel that I proclaimed … was I taught the gospel that I proclaimed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

731:12qohzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisἐδιδάχθην1

Paul 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: “was I taught it by any person” or “was I taught it by man” or “was I taught it by a human being” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

741:12g1o6rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrastἀλλὰ1

What follows the word but is in contrast to the phrases receive it from man and taught it. In contrast to Paul receiving the message he proclaimed from a human source or being taught it Paul received it from a divine source. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “rather” or “instead” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

751:12leqsδι’1

Alternate translation: “through a”

761:12wed1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possessionδι’ ἀποκαλύψεως Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1

Paul could be using the possessive form here to mean: (1) that God revealed Jesus Christ to Paul. This would mean that God is the one who did the revealing and Jesus Christ is the one who God revealed. See the phrase “to reveal his Son in me” in 1:16. Alternate translation: “God revealed Jesus Christ to me” or “God made me know the gospel when he showed Jesus Christ to me” (2) that it was Jesus Christ who made the revelation to Paul. Alternate translation: “by what Jesus Christ revealed to me” (3) both option 1 and 2 together. Alternate translation: “Jesus Christ revealed himself to me and taught me the gospel about himself” or “Jesus Christ revealed himself to me and taught me the gospel concerning himself”(See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

771:12nee4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisἀλλὰ δι’ ἀποκαλύψεως Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1

Paul 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: “but I received it by a revelation of Jesus Christ” or “but I was taught it by a revelation of Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

781:13f3glrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsτὴν ἐμὴν ἀναστροφήν ποτε1

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of manner and life, you could express the same idea with a verbal phrase such as “how I formerly lived”, or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “how I formerly lived” or “how I formerly conducted myself” or “how I formerly behaved” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

791:13r8olrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐν τῷ Ἰουδαϊσμῷ1

Here, the phrase in Judaism refers to following the Jewish religious guidelines. If it would help your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “following the Jewish religion” or “following the Jewish religious guidelines” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

801:13ydx9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomκαθ’ ὑπερβολὴν1

The phrase beyond measure is an idiom meaning “excessively.” If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “excessively” or “to an extreme degree” or “intensely” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

811:14vtugrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐν τῷ Ἰουδαϊσμῷ1

See how you translated the phrase in Judaism in 1:13 where it is used with a similar meaning. Alternate translation: “in the Jewish religion” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

821:14aecdτῷ γένει1

Alternate translation: “nation”

831:14gdwirc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenounsτῷ γένει μου1

The word race is a singular noun that refers to a group of people. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternate translation: “my ethnic group the Jews” or “my people the Jews” or “the Jewish people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])

841:14bcdorc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτῶν πατρικῶν μου1

Here, the word fathers figuratively means “ancestors.” If your readers would not understand what fathers 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: “of my ancestors” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

851:15w6zirc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrastδὲ1

What follows the word But here is in contrast to what was expected. What would be expected is that Paul would continue thinking and acting according to the way he formerly did as described in 1:14. Instead, God called Paul, and as the next verse says, God revealed Jesus to him, so that he might teach the Gentiles about Jesus. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “But then” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

861:15ofqmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit1

Here, the phrase the one refers to God. If it would help your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

871:15qu8src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguishὅτε & εὐδόκησεν ὁ, ἀφορίσας με ἐκ κοιλίας μητρός μου, καὶ καλέσας διὰ τῆς χάριτος αὐτοῦ1

The statement having set me apart from the womb of my mother and having called {me} through his grace gives us further information about the the one (God). It is not making a distinction. If this might confuse your readers, you can make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “when God, who is the one who set me apart from my mothers womb and called me through his grace, was pleased” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])

881:15iyc1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἐκ κοιλίας μητρός μου1

The phrase from the womb of my mother is a Hebrew idiom which means either “from the day of my birth” or “from before birth.” If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “from the day I was born” or “from before I was born.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

891:15wd26rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitκαλέσας1

Here, the word called means “to choose and summon.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “having chosen and summoned me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

901:15wlphrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsτῆς χάριτος1

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of grace, you could express the same idea with an adverb such as “kindly”, as modeled by the UST, or you could express the meaning in some other way that is natural in your language. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

911:16l97hἀποκαλύψαι τὸν Υἱὸν αὐτοῦ ἐν ἐμοὶ1

The phrase reveal his Son in me could mean: (1) that God revealed his Son “to” Paul and refer to God revealing to Paul who Jesus really was so that Paul had an inward knowledge of who Jesus really was. Alternate translation: “to reveal to me his Son” (2) that God revealed his Son to others “through” Paul. Alternate translation: “to reveal his Son to others through me” or “to reveal his Son to others by me”

921:16z800rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goalἵνα1

The phrase so that introduces a purpose clause. After the phrase so that Paul states the purpose for which God revealed his Son to Paul, namely so that he might preach him among the Gentiles. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order that” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])

931:16xx4cεὐαγγελίζωμαι αὐτὸν1

Alternate translation: “I might proclaim the good news about Gods Son”

941:16qme5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheσαρκὶ καὶ αἵματι1

Paul refers figuratively to “human beings” by naming a few of the things that a human being is made of, specifically flesh and blood. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or plain language as modeled by the UST. Alternate translation: “any human being” or “any person” or “anyone” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

951:17qh88rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-goἀνῆλθον εἰς Ἱεροσόλυμα1

Jerusalem was higher than almost any other place in Israel, so it was normal for people to speak of going up to Jerusalem and going down from it. Your language may say “come” rather than go in contexts such as this. Use whichever is more natural. Alternate translation: “did I come up to Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

961:17w82arc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrastἀλλὰ1

What follows the word Instead is in contrast to what was expected. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “Rather” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

971:17zqihrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-goἀπῆλθον εἰς1

Your language may say “came” rather than went in contexts such as this. Use whichever is more natural. Alternate translation: “I came to” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

981:18c7gbrc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequentialἔπειτα1

The word Then* indicates that the events Paul will now relate came after the events just described. Use a natural form in your language for indicating this. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])

991:18rej5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-goἀνῆλθον εἰς Ἱεροσόλυμα1

Jerusalem was higher than almost any other place in Israel, so it was normal for people to speak of going up to Jerusalem and going down from it. Your language may say “came” rather than went in contexts such as this. Use whichever is more natural. Alternate translation: “I came up to Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

1001:19av43rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptionsἕτερον & τῶν ἀποστόλων οὐκ εἶδον, εἰ μὴ Ἰάκωβον1

If it would appear in your language that Paul was making a statement here and then contradicting it, you could reword this to avoid using an exception clause. Alternate translation: “the only other apostles I saw were James” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions]])

1011:20d9yvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamationsἰδοὺ1

behold is an exclamation word which is used to draw attention to the words that come next. Use an exclamation that is natural in your language for communicating this. Alternate translation: “pay attention to this” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]])

1021:20h3cbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesοὐ ψεύδομαι1

Here, Paul uses a phrase 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: “I am telling you the truth” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

1031:20pp11rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ1

Here, the phrase before God is an oath. If your readers would not understand this, you could use an oath from your language that would be appropriate in this context or you could make it clear in your translation that Paul is making an oath. Alternate translation: “I solemnly testify before God” or “in Gods presence I testify” or “I swear with God as my witness” or “I swear before God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1041:21ny6zrc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequentialἔπειτα ἦλθον εἰς1

The word then indicates that the events Paul will now relate came after the events Paul has just described in 1:18-19. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could show this relationship by using a fuller phrase or by expressing the meaning in some other way that is natural to your readers. Alternate translation: “After I left Jerusalem I went to” or “After that I went to” or “Afterwards I went to” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])

1051:22y6l4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἤμην & ἀγνοούμενος τῷ προσώπῳ ταῖς ἐκκλησίαις τῆς Ἰουδαίας, ταῖς ἐν Χριστῷ1

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: “none of the people in the churches of Judea that are in Christ had ever met me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1061:22wleqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheἤμην & ἀγνοούμενος τῷ προσώπῳ ταῖς ἐκκλησίαις τῆς Ἰουδαίας, ταῖς ἐν Χριστῷ1

Paul uses the main feature of his appearance, his face, to refer figuratively to seeing his entire person. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or plain language as modeled by the UST. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1071:22sr0yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐν Χριστῷ1

Paul uses the spatial metaphor in Christ to describe the union believers have with Christ and here it is specifically describing/modifying the churches of Judea. If it would help your readers you could use a fuller phrase to describe what the phrase “in Christ” means here. See the discussion of the phrase “in Christ” in “Part 3: Important Translation Issues” in the “Introduction to 1 Corinthians” section. Alternate translation: “in union with Christ” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1081:23bdmzrc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrastδὲ1

Here, the word But is introducing a contrast between what the Judean believers did know about Paul (they were hearing that he was now proclaiming the faith) with what they did not know about Paul (how he looked, 1:22). Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “Rather” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

1091:23hw08μόνον & ἀκούοντες ἦσαν1

Alternate translation: “all that the believers in the region of Judea knew about me was that people were saying” or “all that the people belonging to the churches in the region of Judea knew about me was that people were saying”

1101:23ss1erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit1

Here, the phrase The one refers to Paul. If it would help your readers, you could express that explicitly as modeled by the UST. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1111:23bh1mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsτὴν πίστιν1

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of faith, you could express the same idea in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the message about Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1121:23lo0rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὴν πίστιν1

Paul is figuratively describing the message about Jesus (the gospel) by association with faith, which is the response that the message about Jesus requires or solicits. If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “the good news about Jesus” or “the message about Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1131:23y5udrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐπόρθει1

Here, the word destroying refers to trying to stop the spread of the Christian message. If it would help your readers, you could express that explicitly as modeled by the UST. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1141:24qp4trc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-resultἐν ἐμοὶ1

Here, the phrase in me means “because of me” and is giving the reason why the Judean believers were praising God, namely because of Paul. If it would help your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “because of me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

1151:24cpniἐν ἐμοὶ1

The phrase in me means “because of me” and the phrase “because of me” could mean: (1) both option 2 and 3 at the same time, in which case “because of me” would mean both that the Judean believers were praising God because God had caused Paul to believe in Jesus and because Paul was now proclaiming the good news about Jesus. If you decide to use this meaning you could use a general phrase that allows for both meanings at the same time such as “because of me.” Alternatively you could clarify in your translation that “because of me” refers to both meanings simultaneously. Alternate translation: “because of me” or “because of what God has done in me and is doing through me” or “because God caused me to believe in Jesus and is now using me to proclaim the good news about Jesus” or “because God caused me to believe in Jesus and is now using me to proclaim the good news about him” (2) because of what God was doing through Paul, that he was proclaiming the gospel. Alternate translation: “because of what God is doing through me” or “because I am now proclaiming the good news about Jesus” or “because I am now proclaiming the faith which I formerly tried to destroy” (3) because of what happened to Paul, that God caused him to believe in Jesus. Alternate translation: “because of what God has done in me” or “because God caused me to believe in his son”

1162:introxe280

Galatians 2 General Notes

Structure and formatting

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

Special concepts in this chapter

Freedom and slavery

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

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“I do not negate the grace of God”

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

1172:1zt61Connecting Statement:0

Connecting Statement:

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

1182:1zth5ἀνέβην1

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

1192:2msv4τοῖς δοκοῦσιν1

Alternate translation: “to those who were recognized as the important overseers of the believers” or “with those who were considered leaders of the church”

1202:2ejb8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegativesτρέχω ἢ ἔδραμον1

Paul uses running as a metaphor to compare his work of preaching the gospel to a person running a race. Paul worked hard to preach the gospel. He wanted the gospel that he preached to have lasting effects. Alternate translation: “I did not want to work hard for God uselessly” or “I did not want my hard work to be wasted”

1212:2t6weμή πως εἰς κενὸν1

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

1222:3xs8krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπεριτμηθῆναι1

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: “to have someone circumcise him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1232:4j5kaτοὺς παρεισάκτους ψευδαδέλφους1

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

1242:4mzx0διὰ δὲ1

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

1252:4l7n7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἵνα ἡμᾶς καταδουλώσουσιν1

Paul is speaking about how these people wanted to force the Galatian believers to follow the Jewish rituals that the law commanded. He is speaking about following the law as if it were slavery. Alternate translation: “to force us to obey the law”or “in order to make us slaves to the law” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1262:5bba7εἴξαμεν τῇ ὑποταγῇ1

Alternate translation: “submit,” or “listen,” or “accept what they were saying,” or “agreed with that they wanted to do”

1272:6afy6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐμοὶ & οὐδὲν προσανέθεντο1

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

1282:9he6qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorδοκοῦντες στῦλοι εἶναι1

Here, pillars refers to men who were leaders of the believers in Jerusalem and taught people the word of God. Alternate translation: “who were like pillars of the church” or “who were recognized as important leaders” or “who were considered to have authority” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1292:9ie72rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsγνόντες τὴν χάριν τὴν δοθεῖσάν μοι1

The abstract noun grace* refers to how God gave Paul the task to proclaim the gospel to the non-Jews. Alternate translation: “understood that God had been kind to me and gave me this work” or “understood the work God was kind to give me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1302:9e5rmrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionδεξιὰς ἔδωκαν & κοινωνίας1

Here, gave the right hand of fellowship is an action that symbolizes a pledge of friendship or agreement. Alternate translation: “welcomed … as fellow workers” or “welcomed … with honor” or “shook hands...as a sign that they agreed with us” or “agreed that were partners in this work”(See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

1312:10kqq6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτῶν πτωχῶν & μνημονεύωμεν1

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

1322:11c9h4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyκατὰ πρόσωπον αὐτῷ ἀντέστην1

The phrase to his face is a metonym. Alternate translation: “I confronted him in person” or “I challenged his actions in person” or “I opposed him in front of everyone” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1332:12z1kgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitφοβούμενος τοὺς ἐκ περιτομῆς1

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

1342:12fy79τοὺς ἐκ περιτομῆς1

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

1352:12a6gvἀφώριζεν ἑαυτόν1

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

1362:14sg53οὐκ ὀρθοποδοῦσιν πρὸς τὴν ἀλήθειαν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου1

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

1372:14z4fprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionπῶς τὰ ἔθνη ἀναγκάζεις Ἰουδαΐζειν1

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

1382:15tz45οὐκ ἐξ ἐθνῶν ἁμαρτωλοί1

The term sinners was used by Jews as a synonym for non-Jews. Alternate translation: “We are not Gentiles, those people who do not know God” or “We are not people who do not follow the law”

1392:16j6l1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveεἰδότες1

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

1402:16j7g5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheοὐ & σάρξ1

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

1412:17vnp6ζητοῦντες δικαιωθῆναι ἐν Χριστῷ1

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

1422:17sge2εὑρέθημεν καὶ αὐτοὶ ἁμαρτωλοί1

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

1432:17yy9src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionμὴ γένοιτο1

Alternate translation: “Of course, that is not true!” or “no, never!” This expression gives the strongest possible negative answer to the preceding rhetorical question is Christ a minister of sin? (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1442:18r52xπαραβάτην ἐμαυτὸν συνιστάνω1

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

1452:18p6herc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorεἰ γὰρ ἃ κατέλυσα, ταῦτα πάλιν οἰκοδομῶ1

For if I again rebuild those things which I destroyed is a metaphor for someone who returns to trying to obey the law after they trusted in the Messiah. He compares trying to follow the law with someone trying to build a building. He compares someone who trusts in the Messiah with someone who destroys the building they are trying to build. He compares someone who returns to trying to follow the law after trusting the Messiah with someone who wants to rebuild the building they destroyed. Alternate translation: “If I believe in Christ to be justified before God instead of following the law, and then I change my mind and start following the law again for justification.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1462:19xe23διὰ νόμου1

The phrase through the law could refer to: (1) Pauls experience in trying to obey the law (2) how Christ paid the requirements of the law. Alternate translation: “When the Messiah completed the law”

1472:19r55drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionἐγὼ & νόμῳ ἀπέθανον1

The phrase, I...died to the law means that the law no longer has any power or authority over Paul. Alternate translation: “I am separated from the law”

1482:19xg5qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionΧριστῷ συνεσταύρωμαι;1

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

1492:20bb2xrc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΥἱοῦ τοῦ Θεοῦ1

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

1502:21tj6lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesοὐκ ἀθετῶ1

Paul states a negative to emphasize the positive. Paul is defending a charge others made against him. He does not reject Gods grace when he rejects following the law. This phrase can be translated positively. Alternate translation: “I confirm the value of” or “I do not reject Gods kindness” or “I do not ignore Gods kindness.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

1512:21yl3crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypoεἰ & διὰ νόμου δικαιοσύνη, ἄρα Χριστὸς δωρεὰν ἀπέθανεν1

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

1522:21k6bgεἰ & διὰ νόμου δικαιοσύνη1

Alternate translation: “if people could become righteous by obeying the law” or “if it were possible for a person to become righteous in Gods sight by obeying the law”.

1532:21rku5ἄρα Χριστὸς δωρεὰν ἀπέθανεν1

Alternate translation: “then Christ would have accomplished nothing by dying” or “then it was pointless for Christ to die”

1543:introxd920

Galatians 3 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Equality in Christ

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

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Rhetorical Questions

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

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Flesh

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

“Those of faith are children of Abraham”

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

1553:1p7uwGeneral Information:0

General Information:

Paul is rebuking the Galatians by asking rhetorical questions.

1563:1ryu7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ironyτίς ὑμᾶς ἐβάσκανεν1

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

1573:1xvjiἀνόητοι1

Alternate translation: “without understanding” or “stupid”

1583:1dc2jὑμᾶς ἐβάσκανεν1

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

1593:1gwv2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorοἷς κατ’ ὀφθαλμοὺς Ἰησοῦς Χριστὸς προεγράφη ἐσταυρωμένος1

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

1603:2m1zdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ironyτοῦτο μόνον θέλω μαθεῖν ἀφ’ ὑμῶν1

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

1613:2wq9grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionἐξ ἔργων νόμου τὸ Πνεῦμα ἐλάβετε, ἢ ἐξ ἀκοῆς πίστεως1

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

1623:3f96urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionοὕτως ἀνόητοί ἐστε1

Alternate translation: “You are very foolish!” or “Dont be so foolish!” or “are you crazy” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1633:3xu4drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyσαρκὶ1

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

1643:4iyj1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτοσαῦτα ἐπάθετε εἰκῇ1

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

1653:4xujzἐπάθετε1

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

1663:4qn1arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτοσαῦτα ἐπάθετε εἰκῇ1

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

1673:4nq68εἰκῇ1

Alternate translation: “uselessly” or “in vain”

1683:4xl9lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionεἴ γε καὶ εἰκῇ1

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

1693:5s3bcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionἐξ ἔργων νόμου ἢ ἐξ ἀκοῆς πίστεως1

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

1703:5j4vzἐξ ἔργων νόμου1

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

1713:5e17qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐξ ἀκοῆς πίστεως1

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

1723:6ahy9Connecting Statement:0

Connecting Statement:

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

1733:6f7svἐλογίσθη αὐτῷ εἰς δικαιοσύνην1

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

1743:7i9x4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsοἱ ἐκ πίστεως1

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

1753:7kq1hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorοὗτοι υἱοί εἰσιν Ἀβραὰμ1

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

1763:8vs1mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationπροϊδοῦσα δὲ ἡ Γραφὴ1

Here, the scripture is a personification and is equivalent to saying “the Lord” or “God”. Alternate translation: “God predicted” or “the Lord saw ahead of time” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

1773:8k9tprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youἐν σοὶ1

The word you refers to Abraham and is singular. Alternate translation: “Because of you” or “Because of what you have done” or “Because I have blessed you.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

1783:8j83jπάντα τὰ ἔθνη1

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

1793:10mxe7ὅσοι γὰρ ἐξ ἔργων νόμου1

Alternate translation: “All people who follow the law” or “Everyone who tries to be justified through obeying the law”

1803:10jhr2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὅσοι γὰρ ἐξ ἔργων νόμου εἰσὶν ὑπὸ κατάραν εἰσίν1

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

1813:11sn9hδῆλον1

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

1823:11k6k5ἐν νόμῳ, οὐδεὶς δικαιοῦται παρὰ τῷ Θεῷ1

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

1833:11i537rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjὁ δίκαιος ἐκ πίστεως ζήσεται1

The nominal adjective righteous” refers to people who righteous. Alternate translation: “Righteous people will live by faith” or “The person who is righteous because he believes will live” “It is through believing that a person becomes righteous and obtains eternal life” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

1843:12rep5ζήσεται ἐν αὐτοῖς1

Alternate translation: “will live because of them” or “will because he obeyed them”

1853:13ml63ἐκ τῆς κατάρας τοῦ νόμου1

The word curse is a metonym for God condemning the person whom he has cursed. Alternate translation: “from God condemn us because we broke the law” or “from being cursed because of the law” or “from being cursed for not obeying the law” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1863:13mt6zὁ κρεμάμενος ἐπὶ ξύλου1

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

1873:14brf7ἵνα & ἡ εὐλογία τοῦ Ἀβραὰμ γένηται1

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

1883:14h46qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveλάβωμεν1

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

1893:15al9bἀδελφοί1

See how you translated this in Galatians 1:2.

1903:15c3gsκατὰ ἄνθρωπον1

Alternate translation: “from a human standpoint” or “with a human analogy”

1913:16f1xuδὲ1

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

1923:16w3wlὡς ἐπὶ πολλῶν1

Alternate translation: “referring to many descendants”

1933:16t25erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youτῷ σπέρματί σου1

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

1943:17h36mrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersὁ μετὰ τετρακόσια καὶ τριάκοντα ἔτη1

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

1953:18ujg2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypoεἰ γὰρ ἐκ νόμου ἡ κληρονομία, οὐκέτι ἐξ ἐπαγγελίας1

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

1963:18c8furc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorκληρονομία1

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

1973:19kx2eτί οὖν ὁ νόμος1

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

1983:19uk9mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπροσετέθη1

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: “God added it” or “God added the law” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1993:19cf66rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveδιαταγεὶς δι’ ἀγγέλων ἐν χειρὶ μεσίτου1

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

2003:19bgi6χειρὶ μεσίτου1

Alternate translation: “given through a middleman”

2013:20x9l1ὁ δὲ μεσίτης ἑνὸς οὐκ ἔστιν, ὁ δὲ Θεὸς εἷς ἐστιν1

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

2023:21wes3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveGeneral Information:0

General Information:

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

2033:21e43uκατὰ τῶν ἐπαγγελιῶν1

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

2043:21iyg9ἐν νόμου ἂν ἦν ἡ δικαιοσύνη1

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

2053:22jbn7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationἡ Γραφὴ1

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

2063:23su16rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὑπὸ νόμον ἐφρουρούμεθα, συνκλειόμενοι1

The way the law controlled us is spoken of as if the law were a prison guard holding us as captives. 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 law held us captive in prison” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2073:23t32jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveεἰς τὴν μέλλουσαν πίστιν ἀποκαλυφθῆναι1

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: “until God would reveal that he justifies those who have faith in Christ” or “until God would reveal that he justifies those who trust in Christ” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2083:24ln1src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationπαιδαγωγὸς1

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

2093:24s8g5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἵνα & δικαιωθῶμεν1

Before Christ came, God had planned to justify us. When Christ came, he carried out his plan to justify us. 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 God would declare us to be righteous” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2103:27v6n1ὅσοι γὰρ εἰς Χριστὸν ἐβαπτίσθητε1

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

2113:27di9vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorΧριστὸν ἐνεδύσασθε1

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

2123:29qp4zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorκληρονόμοι1

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

2134:introh6gw0

Galatians 4 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with verse 27, which is quoted from the Old Testament.

Special concepts in this chapter

Sonship

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

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Abba, Father

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

2144:1fr5uConnecting Statement:0

Connecting Statement:

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

2154:2bd5aἐπιτρόπους1

The word guardians refers to people with legal responsibility for the personal life of a child. Alternate translation: “people supervise the child”.

2164:2v5g9οἰκονόμους1

The word stewards refers to people who watch over the property and finances of the child. Alternate translation: “people manage the childs possessions”.

2174:3d6v9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveἦμεν1

General Information:

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

2184:3n21qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὅτε ἦμεν νήπιοι1

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

2194:3u462τὰ στοιχεῖα τοῦ κόσμου1

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

2204:3cd2wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἤμεθα δεδουλωμένοι1

Here, we were being enslaved is a metaphor for being unable to stop ones self from doing something. 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 spirits that ruled the world had made us their slaves,” or “the spirits that ruled the world had caused us to serve them like slaves.” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2214:4l5tfrc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτὸν Υἱὸν1

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

2224:4ujfpτὸ πλήρωμα τοῦ χρόνου1

Here, the fullness of time shows that God was working his purposes throughout history. It emphasizes a time designated by God to deliver people from their helplessness and enslavement to the Law and to those forces that are opposed to God. Alternate translation: “at the proper time” or “at the designated time”

2234:5v5cbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐξαγοράσῃ1

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

2244:6a274ἐστε υἱοί1

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

2254:6xhe6rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτοῦ υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ1

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

2264:6nei3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyεἰς τὰς καρδίας ἡμῶν1

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

2274:6s54rκρᾶζον1

The Spirit is the subject of the one “crying out.” Yet this also expresses the believers attitude as well. it is important to avoid translating this verb in a way that would suggest either shouting or weeping.

2284:6eqx5Ἀββά, ὁ Πατήρ1

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

2294:7e7tcυἱός1

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

2304:7akb8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youεἶ1

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

2314:7d5hurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorκληρονόμος1

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

2324:8ukf5Connecting Statement:0

Connecting Statement:

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

2334:8cj5iτοῖς φύσει μὴ οὖσι θεοῖς1

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

2344:9b8uerc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐπιστρέφετε πάλιν1

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

2354:9n5ieτὰ ἀσθενῆ καὶ πτωχὰ στοιχεῖα1

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

2364:9w28krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionοἷς πάλιν ἄνωθεν δουλεύειν θέλετε1

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

2374:9s77erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorοἷς πάλιν ἄνωθεν δουλεύειν θέλετε1

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

2384:10w7d5ἡμέρας παρατηρεῖσθε, καὶ μῆνας, καὶ καιροὺς, καὶ ἐνιαυτούς1

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

2394:11bsv1εἰκῇ1

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

2404:12ql14Connecting Statement:0

Connecting Statement:

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

2414:12p9gnἀδελφοί1

See how you translated this in Galatians 1:2 and Galatians 3:15.

2424:12n3wfοὐδέν με ἠδικήσατε1

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

2434:14tk1lκαὶ τὸν πειρασμὸν ὑμῶν ἐν τῇ σαρκί μου1

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

2444:14v9xaοὐκ ἐξουθενήσατε1

Alternate translation: “you did not scorn” or “you did not hate”

2454:17s9knἀλλὰ ἐκκλεῖσαι ὑμᾶς1

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

2464:17iv1dαὐτοὺς ζηλοῦτε1

Alternate translation: “you would be devoted to them” or “you would be attached to them”.

2474:19u3ebrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτέκνα μου1

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

2484:19yf9erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorοὓς & ὠδίνω, μέχρις οὗ μορφωθῇ Χριστὸς ἐν ὑμῖν1

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

2494:21z1umλέγετέ μοι1

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

2504:21u6fsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτὸν νόμον οὐκ ἀκούετε1

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

2514:24k5quἀλληγορούμενα1

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

2524:24u4hrrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheὌρους Σινά1

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

2534:24u3u9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorδουλείαν γεννῶσα1

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

2544:25u1ccσυνστοιχεῖ1

Alternate translation: “represents” or “is similar”.

2554:25ck7vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorδουλεύει & μετὰ τῶν τέκνων αὐτῆς1

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

2564:27jql2εὐφράνθητι1

Alternate translation: “Be happy”.

2574:28ad75ἀδελφοί1

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

2584:28ct63ἐπαγγελίας τέκνα1

Here, children of promise could refer to: (1) Abrahams children (2) Gods children.

2594:29c9lfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorκατὰ σάρκα1

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

2604:29gt1eκατὰ Πνεῦμα1

Here, according to Spirit means Isaac was born in a supernatural way, through the power of the Holy Spirit. Alternate translation: “because of the Spirit” or “because of the work of the Spirit”

2614:31sy8uἀδελφοί1

See how you translated this in Galatians 1:2.

2625:introbcg30

Galatians 5 General Notes

Structure and formatting

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

Special concepts in this chapter

Fruit of the Spirit

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

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Illustrations

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

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

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

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

2635:1up16Connecting Statement:0

Connecting Statement:

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

2645:1kuu9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτῇ ἐλευθερίᾳ, ἡμᾶς Χριστὸς ἠλευθέρωσεν1

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

2655:1j679rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorστήκετε1

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

2665:1ovu1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorμὴ πάλιν ζυγῷ δουλείας ἐνέχεσθε1

Here, do not again be subjected to a yoke of slavery figuratively refers to being obligated to obey the law. Alternate translation: “do not live like one who is controlled like being under a yoke of slavery to the law” or “do not go back again to being a slave of the law” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2675:2lrsxἐὰν περιτέμνησθε1

Alternate translation: “if you let someone circumcise you” or “if you receive circumcision”

2685:2vk9oΧριστὸς ὑμᾶς οὐδὲν ὠφελήσει.1

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

2695:3h4q5μαρτύρομαι δὲ1

Alternate translation: “I declare” or “I serve as a witness” or “I tell you” or “I warn you”

2705:4h4yurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorκατηργήθητε ἀπὸ Χριστοῦ1

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

2715:4ipf7οἵτινες ἐν νόμῳ δικαιοῦσθε1

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

2725:4k6xerc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτῆς χάριτος ἐξεπέσατε1

Alternate translation: “you have turned your back on the grace of God” or “God will not be gracious to you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2735:5pdm1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveGeneral Information:0

General Information:

Here, we refers to Paul and those who do not trust in the law, but in the Messiah. And exclusive form of “we” fits the context better in this case. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

2745:5vvk6Πνεύματι1

Alternate translation: “by the power of the Spirit” or “by the help of the Spirit”

2755:5qg9mἡμεῖς & ἐκ πίστεως ἐλπίδα δικαιοσύνης ἀπεκδεχόμεθα1

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

2765:6y2wwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyοὔτε περιτομή & οὔτε ἀκροβυστία1

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

2775:6qp6bτι ἰσχύει1

Alternate translation: “makes no difference” or “is meaningless”

2785:7jj48rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐτρέχετε1

Paul uses the metaphor of running to describe the spiritual progress the Galatian believers were making. Alternate translation: “You were making excellent progress” or “you were doing so well” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2795:8sx6uπεισμονὴ1

Here, persuasion refers to the idea of getting a person to change what they believe and act differently. Alternate translation: “This teaching which persuaded you to stop trusting in the Messiah” or “This way of thinking”

2805:9q926μικρὰ ζύμη1

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

2815:10enp1οὐδὲν ἄλλο φρονήσετε1

Alternate translation: “you will not believe anything different from what I am telling you” or “you will not think differently than what I believe”

2825:10jc72ταράσσων ὑμᾶς1

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

2835:10llh5ὅστις ἐὰν ᾖ1

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

2845:11d4mmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypoἐγὼ δέ, ἀδελφοί, εἰ περιτομὴν ἔτι κηρύσσω, τί ἔτι διώκομαι1

Paul is describing a situation that does not exist to emphasize the fact that people are persecuting 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. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])

2855:11nv5xἀδελφοί1

See how you translated this in Galatians 1:2, Galatians 3:15, Galatians 4:12.

2865:11y3ugrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκατήργηται τὸ σκάνδαλον τοῦ σταυροῦ1

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 teaching about the cross has no stumbling block” or “there is nothing in the teaching of the cross that would cause people to stumble” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2875:11arj5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorκατήργηται τὸ σκάνδαλον τοῦ σταυροῦ1

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

2885:12sfl2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἀποκόψονται1

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

2895:13y1g7γὰρ1

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

2905:13ekb2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὑμεῖς & ἐπ’ ἐλευθερίᾳ ἐκλήθητε1

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

2915:13yp6rἀδελφοί1

See how you translated this in Galatians 1:2.

2925:13viv6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἀφορμὴν τῇ σαρκί1

The word flesh* refers to the part of human nature that does not submit to God. This word sums up the impelling motive of the natural man, and is the moral bias of the man who is not ruled by the Holy Spirit. The relationship between opportunity and the flesh can be stated more clearly. Alternate translation: “an opportunity for you to behave according to your sinful nature” or “an opportunity to follow the evil desires of your hearts” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2935:14ct8iὁ & πᾶς νόμος ἐν ἑνὶ λόγῳ πεπλήρωται1

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

2945:14qt9crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingularἀγαπήσεις τὸν πλησίον σου ὡς σεαυτόν1

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

2955:16yb58rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorΠνεύματι περιπατεῖτε1

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

2965:16dyj7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἐπιθυμίαν σαρκὸς οὐ μὴ τελέσητε1

The phrase you would certainly not fulfill the desires of the flesh” is an idiom that means “to do what someone desires.” Alternate translation: “You will not do what your sinful nature desires” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2975:16rl5src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationἐπιθυμίαν σαρκὸς1

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

2985:18san8οὐκ ἐστὲ ὑπὸ νόμον1

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

2995:19yf2arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationτὰ ἔργα τῆς σαρκός1

The word flesh is used as if it were a person. The abstract noun works can be translated with the verb “does.” Alternate translation: “what the sinful nature does” or “the deeds if we follow the sinful desires of our hearts” or “what people do because of their sinful nature.” See how you translated flesh in [Galatians 5:13] and [Galatians 5:16].

3005:21rs9brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorκληρονομήσουσιν1

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

3015:22hez3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὁ δὲ καρπὸς τοῦ Πνεύματός1

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

3025:24l6uxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationτὴν σάρκα ἐσταύρωσαν σὺν τοῖς παθήμασιν καὶ ταῖς ἐπιθυμίαις1

Paul speaks of Christians who refuse to live according to their sinful nature as if it were a person and they have killed it on a cross. Alternate translation: “refuse to live according the sinful nature with its passions and desires, as if they killed it on a cross.” See how you translated flesh in [Galatians 5:13], [Galatians 5:16], and [Galatians 5:19]. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3035:25h9hdεἰ ζῶμεν Πνεύματι1

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

3045:25sq7brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorΠνεύματι καὶ στοιχῶμεν1

Here, walk is a metaphor for how a person lives. Alternate translation: “then we should allow the Holy Spirit to guide how we live” or “let us follow the Holy Spirit in every part of our lives” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3056:introbv8h0

Galatians 6 General Notes

Structure and formatting

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

Brothers

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

Special concepts in this chapter

New Creation

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

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Flesh

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

3066:1x8zgConnecting Statement:0

Connecting Statement:

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

3076:1ss7lἀδελφοί1

See how you translated brothers in Galatians 1:2, Galatians 3:15, Galatians 4:12, and Galatians 5:11.

3086:1vm8fἐὰν & ἄνθρωπος1

Alternate translation: “if anyone among you” or “if one of you”

3096:1vts8ἐὰν καὶ προλημφθῇ ἄνθρωπος ἔν τινι παραπτώματι1

This could mean: (1) a fellow believers catches the person committing a sin. Alternate translation: “if someone is discovered in an act of sin” (2) a sin overcomes a person so that they sin. Alternate translation: “if someone among you sins” or “if someone is led astray to sin”

3106:1t4rmὑμεῖς, οἱ πνευματικοὶ1

Alternate translation: “those of you who are guided by the Spirit” or “you who submit to the Spirit”

3116:1hdj8καταρτίζετε τὸν τοιοῦτον1

Alternate translation: “exhort the person who sinned to return to a correct relationship with God” or “you should humbly help bring that person to the right path”

3126:1tr5rἐν πνεύματι πραΰτητος1

This could refer to: (1) the persons attitude and disposition. Alternate translation: “with an attitude of gentleness” or “in a kind way” (2) the Holy Spirit who is characterized by gentleness is directing the one offering correction. Alternate translation: “through the Holy Spirit of gentleness” or “by following the Holy Spirit who is gentle”

3136:1rrg9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingularσκοπῶν σεαυτόν1

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

3146:1ljx6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveμὴ καὶ σὺ πειρασθῇς1

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 are tempted and also sin” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3156:2m6jzἀναπληρώσετε τὸν νόμον τοῦ Χριστοῦ1

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

3166:3v6tsεἰ γὰρ1

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

3176:3m4wkεἶναί τι1

Alternate translation: “he is better than others”

3186:3zz1gμηδὲν ὤν1

Alternate translation: “he is not better than others”

3196:5ee8vτὸ ἴδιον φορτίον βαστάσει1

The could mean: (1) each person has their own responsibilities and tasks. Alternate translation: “each person must do the work that God has given him” or “each person is responsible for only his work” (2) each person is responsible for their own weaknesses and sins. Alternate translation: “each person is responsible for their own weaknesses”

3206:7x5pirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὃ γὰρ ἐὰν σπείρῃ ἄνθρωπος, τοῦτο καὶ θερίσει1

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

3216:7gii9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsὃ γὰρ ἐὰν σπείρῃ ἄνθρωπος1

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

3226:8lzz8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὁ σπείρων εἰς τὴν σάρκα ἑαυτοῦ1

Here, sowing is a metaphor for doing deeds that will have consequences later. In this case, sowing to his own flesh refers to a person doing sinful actions because of his sinful nature. Alternate translation: “the person who continually does deeds following the evil desires of their heart” or “the person who does the things he wants to do because of his sinful nature” or “the person who does what pleases his sinful self” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3236:8dge9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorθερίσει φθοράν1

Here, destruction refers to God punishing the person as if the person were harvesting a crop. Alternate translation: “will receive punishment for what he did” or “he will harvest death” or “he will harvest punishment that is forever” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3246:8aqz2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὁ δὲ σπείρων εἰς τὸ Πνεῦμα1

Here, sowing is a metaphor for doing deeds that will have consequences later. In this case, sowing to the Spirit refers to a person who does good actions because he is obeying and following Gods Spirit. Alternate translation: “the person who does the things Gods Spirit loves” or “the person who lives to please the Spirit” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3256:8k1p7ἐκ τοῦ Πνεύματος θερίσει ζωὴν αἰώνιον1

Here, eternal life refers to God rewarding the person as if the person were harvesting a crop. Alternate translation: “will receive eternal life as a reward from Gods Spirit” or “he will harvest eternal life from the Holy Spirit”

3266:9u77cκαιρῷ γὰρ ἰδίῳ1

Alternate translation: “for at the proper time” or “when the right time arrives”

3276:10ax66ἄρα οὖν1

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

3286:10jz9iτοὺς οἰκείους τῆς πίστεως1

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

3296:11i7apConnecting Statement:0

Connecting Statement:

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

3306:11d6rkτῇ ἐμῇ χειρί1

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

3316:12kmd7εὐπροσωπῆσαι ἐν σαρκί1

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

3326:12r5p1ἐν σαρκί1

Here, in the flesh refers to their desire to circumcise the Galatian believers. Alternate translation: “outwardly” or “by the way their bodies appear”

3336:12jd4xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτῷ σταυρῷ1

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

3346:14v2qsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisκἀγὼ κόσμῳ1

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

3356:15n6n7καινὴ κτίσις1

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

3366:16b4alτὸν Ἰσραὴλ τοῦ Θεοῦ1

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

3376:17cz8aκόπους μοι1

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

3386:17j729ἐγὼ γὰρ τὰ στίγματα τοῦ Ἰησοῦ ἐν τῷ σώματί μου βαστάζω1

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

3396:18pk25ἀδελφοί1

See how you translated this in Galatians 1:2.