2 Chronicles

2 Chronicles front

Introduction to 2 Chronicles

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of 2 Chronicles

Solomon rules the kingdom (1:1–9:28)
- Solomon put on the throne of David, his father (1:1-17)
- Solomon builds the temple of Yahweh (2:1–5:1)
- Solomon dedicates the temple (5:2–7:22)
- The life of Solomon (8:1–9:28)
Judah declines and goes into exile (10:1–36:23)
- From Rehoboam to Zedekiah (10:1–36:21)
- The edict of Cyrus, permitting Israel to return to Canaan (36:22–23)

What are 1 and 2 Chronicles about?

The Book of 1 Chronicles retells the line of descendants from Adam to Saul. It then gives the history of Israel during the time of David. The Book of 2 Chronicles gives the history of Israel beginning with Solomon. It ends when the Babylonian army attacks Judah and takes some of the people to Babylon. The writers of Chronicles probably wrote these books for the Jews who returned from exile in Babylon. The purpose was to teach the people to avoid disobeying God as their ancestors did.

How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators can use the traditional title “2 Chronicles” or “Second Chronicles.” You may also call this book “The Events of the Kings of Judah and Israel, Book 2” or “The Second Book of the Events of the Kings of Judah and Israel.”

Who wrote 1 and 2 Chronicles?

The writers of 1 and 2 Chronicles are unknown. They mention that they used other books when writing Chronicles. The names of these other books are “The Chronicles of Samuel the Seer,” “The Chronicles of Nathan the Seer,” “The Chronicles of Gad the Seer,” “The History of Nathan the Prophet,” “The Chronicles of Shemaiah the Prophet and Iddo,” “The Story of the Prophet Iddo” and “The books of the kings of Judah and Israel.”

Why are there multiple books that give the history of the kings of Israel?

The books of Chronicles and the books of Kings tell much of the same history, but they are not exactly the same. The writers of Chronicles wrote mostly about the kings of Judah who were faithful to Yahweh and his covenant. The writers wanted the Jews to think carefully about David and Solomon. They also wanted the Jews to think about how Jehoshaphat, Hezekiah, and Josiah caused their ancestors to repent and to worship Yahweh. The writers wanted to encourage the Jews and their leaders to obey the law and to honor God’s covenant with them. (See: covenant)

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

Why did God punish the people of Israel?

God punished the people of Israel because they disobeyed him and worshiped false gods. God punished them with disease, disasters, and defeat in battle. However, God forgave them and caused them to prosper again if they repented and obeyed him. The writers of 1 and 2 Chronicles continually reminded the readers that God punished his people because they disobeyed. They wanted the readers to understand that they must obey God.

Why are alliances with foreign countries seen as evil in these books?

Yahweh led and protected the nation of Israel. The people of Israel should have trusted him instead of relying on other nations to protect them.

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

What is the meaning of the term “Israel”?

The name “Israel” is used in many different ways in the Bible. Jacob was the son of Isaac. God changed Jacob’s name to Israel. The descendants of Jacob became a nation also called Israel. Eventually, the nation of Israel split into two kingdoms. The northern kingdom was named Israel. The southern kingdom was named Judah.

What does it mean to “seek God?”

The writers of 1 and 2 Chronicles often wrote about “seeking God.” To “seek God” means to make an effort to please and honor God. It can also mean to ask God for help. It does not imply that God is hidden. (See: Metaphor)

What does the phrase “to this day” mean?

The writers used the phrase “to this day” to refer to the time when they were writing. The translator should be aware that “to this day” refers to a time already passed. The translator might decide to say, “to this day, at the time when this is being written,” or, “to this day, at the time of writing.” This Hebrew phrase occurs in 1 Chronicles 4:41, 43; 5:26; 13:11; 20:26; 21:10; 35:25.

2 Chronicles 1

2 Chronicles 1 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter begins a section about King Solomon’s reign (2 Chronicles 1-9).

Special concepts in this chapter

Wisdom

Solomon asks God for wisdom to rule God’s people. God is pleased with this request because it is used to serve others. Therefore, God also gives Solomon tremendous wealth and a long life. (See: wise, wisdom and people of God)

2 Chronicles 1:1

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: “gained complete control over his kingdom” or “ruled powerfully over his kingdom” (See: Active or Passive)

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

Here “was with him” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “God supported him” or “God helped him” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 1:2

It may be helpful to reorder the events in these verses as in the UST. (See: Order of Events)

Here “all of Israel” means those people mentioned afterwards. They represent all of Israel. Alternate translation: “spoke to the commanders … heads of the father’s house”

This could mean: (1) these numbers represent the exact amount of soldiers that these commanders led. Alternate translation: “the commanders of 1,000 soldiers and the commanders of 100 soldiers” or (2) the words translated as “thousands” and “hundreds” do not represent exact numbers, but are the names of larger and smaller military divisions. Alternate translation: “the commanders of large military divisions and the commanders of smaller military divisions” (See: Numbers)

Here “the heads of the fathers’ houses” further describe the princes. Alternate translation: “to every prince in all Israel, that is, the heads of the fathers’ houses”

Here “prince” means leaders in general. They are not necessarily the sons of the king. Alternate translation: “to every leader”

Here “heads” is a metaphor for the most important part. And “houses” represents families. Alternate translation: “the leaders of the families in Israel” (See: Metaphor and Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 1:4

A little town about 9 miles west of Jerusalem. (See: How to Translate Names)

Alternate translation: “set up a tent”

2 Chronicles 1:5

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 bronze altar that Bezalel son of Uri son Hur made” (See: Active or Passive)

These are names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 1:6

Alternate translation: “went up to the high place at Gibeon”

“1,000” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 1:7

If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “Ask for whatever you want from me.”

2 Chronicles 1:8

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word faithfulness, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “faithfully” or “faithful.” Alternate translation: “You have greatly and faithfully loved David” or “You have been very faithful to David” (See: Abstract Nouns)

2 Chronicles 1:9

Here the word “Now” is used to draw attention to the important point that follows.

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: “please do what you promised to David my father that you would do” (See: Active or Passive)

This simile emphasizes the great number of Israelites. Alternate translation: “countless people” or “very many people” (See: Simile)

2 Chronicles 1:10

This can be restated to remove the abstract nouns “wisdom” and “knowledge.” Alternate translation: “cause me to be wise and to know many things” (See: Abstract Nouns)

Here “judge” means to govern or rule. Solomon uses a question to state that it is impossible to rule over so many people without God’s help. Alternate translation: “no one can judge all of your countless people without your help.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

2 Chronicles 1:11

Here “heart” represents desire. Alternate translation: “Because this was your desire” or “Because this is what you wanted” (See: Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “nor to be able to defeat those who hate you” or “nor to be able to kill your enemies”

2 Chronicles 1:12

This can be restated to remove the abstract nouns “wisdom” and “knowledge.” Alternate translation: “I will now cause you to be wise and to know many things” (See: Abstract Nouns)

2 Chronicles 1:13

Here “Solomon” represents all the people with him. Also “came” can be stated as “went.” Alternate translation: “So Solomon and the people with him went to Jerusalem” (See: Synecdoche and Go and Come)

Alternate translation: “from the tent of meeting”

2 Chronicles 1:14

“one thousand four hundred chariots” (See: Numbers)

“12,000 horsemen” (See: Numbers)

This is a reference to cities which stored his chariots.

2 Chronicles 1:15

The narrator uses exaggeration to emphasize the great amount of silver that was in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “The king had so much silver in Jerusalem, it was like there was as much silver as there was stones on the ground” (See: Hyperbole)

This is a tree that grows fruit that looks like figs. (See: Translate Unknowns)

2 Chronicles 1:16

“Importation” is the act of bringing something into one country from another country. This can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: “As for the horses Solomon imported from Egypt and Kue” (See: Abstract Nouns)

This is the name of a region. Some think that Kue was the same as Cilicia, in Asia Minor. (See: How to Translate Names)

Alternate translation: “at a set price” or “for money”

2 Chronicles 1:17

A shekel is a unit of weight equal to about 11 grams. Alternate translation: “about 6.6 kilograms of silver … about 1.7 kilograms” (See: Biblical Weight)

“600” (See: Numbers)

to send something out of one country into another

2 Chronicles 2

2 Chronicles 2 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The story of Solomon’s reign continues in this chapter. This chapter also begins a section on building the temple. (2 Chronicles 2-4 and temple, house, house of God)

Special concepts in this chapter

House of God

The temple is repeatedly referred to as the “house of God” because Yahweh will dwell in the temple. (See: house of God, Yahweh’s house)

2 Chronicles 2:1

This marks a new part of the story.

The word “name” is a metonym for the person. Alternate translation: “commanded his people to build a house where Yahweh may live” or “commanded his people to build a house where they could worship Yahweh” (See: Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “of a royal palace for his kingdom” or “of a palace for himself”

2 Chronicles 2:2

“70,000 men…80,000 men” (See: Numbers)

It is understood that these are loads of materials for building Yahweh’s house. Alternate translation: “to carry loads of materials” (See: Ellipsis)

“three thousand six hundred” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 2:3

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 2:4

Here “name” represents the person. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 2:1. Alternate translation: “I am about to build a house where Yahweh my God may live” or “I am about to build a house where people may worship Yahweh my God” (See: Metonymy)

Solomon would command his people to build the house. Alternate translation: “I am about to command my people to build” (See: Metonymy)

This is a reference to the 12 loaves of bread that were placed in front of the altar.

This was the time of a festival coinciding with the movement of the moon.

Here “This” refers back to all the ways the people will worship Yahweh at his temple. Alternate translation: “These are the things Yahweh has commanded Israel to do forever”

2 Chronicles 2:5

This is a reference to God being more important and more powerful than other gods, not to being larger than other gods.

2 Chronicles 2:6

Solomon uses a question to emphasize that no one is able or worthy to build a house for God. Alternate translation: “no one is able to build a house for God because not even the universe or heaven is big enough to contain him. I am not worthy to build a house for him, except as a place to offer sacrifices to him. (See: Rhetorical Question)

2 Chronicles 2:8

This continues Solomon’s message to Hiram, the king of Tyre.

These are different types of tress. (See: Translate Unknowns)

2 Chronicles 2:10

A cor is 220 liters. Twenty thousand cors equals 4,400 kiloliters. (See: Biblical Volume)

“20,000” (See: Numbers)

Alternate translation: “wheat flour”

A bath is 22 liters. Twenty thousand baths equals 440 kiloliters. (See: Biblical Volume)

2 Chronicles 2:12

This can be restated to remove the abstract nouns “prudence” and “understanding.” Alternate translation: “who is very intelligent and understands many things” (See: Abstract Nouns)

2 Chronicles 2:13

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word understanding, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “understands” or “wise.” Alternate translation: “who understand many things” or “who is very wise” (See: Abstract Nouns)

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 2:14

Translate many of these words as you did in 2 Chronicles 2:7.

Alternate translation: “high quality cloth” or “the best cloth”

Alternate translation: “His mother is from the tribe of Dan” or “His mother is a descendant of Dan”

2 Chronicles 2:15

This continues the message from Hiram, king of Tyre, to Solomon.

Hiram refers to Solomon as “my master” and to himself and his own people as “his servants.” This is a way of showing respect. Alternate translation: “of which you, my master, have spoken, please send these things to us, your servants” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

2 Chronicles 2:16

Here “you” refers to Solomon. The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “you will command your people to take the wood to Jerusalem” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 2:17

The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon had his servants count” (See: Metonymy)

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: “There were 153,600 foreigners” (See: Active or Passive and Numbers)

“one hundred and fifty-three thousand six hundred” (See: Numbers)

“three thousand six hundred” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 2:18

“70,000 men…80,000 men” (See: Numbers)

It is understood that these are loads of materials for building Yahweh’s house. Alternate translation: “to carry loads of materials” (See: Ellipsis)

2 Chronicles 3

2 Chronicles 3 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The story of King Solomon and the building of the temple continues in this chapter. (See: temple, house, house of God)

Special concepts in this chapter

Location of the temple

The location of the temple was very significant. Many important events in history occurred at this location.

2 Chronicles 3:1

The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Then Solomon’s workers began to build … They prepared” (See: Metonymy)

This is the name of a mountain. (See: How to Translate Names)

“Ornan” is the name of a man. “Jebusite” is the name of a people group. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 3:2

The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “They began” (See: Metonymy)

“day 2 of month 2.” This is the second month of the Hebrew calendar. The second day is near the middle of April on Western calendars. (See: Hebrew Months and Ordinal Numbers)

“in year 4” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

2 Chronicles 3:3

The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “that Solomon’s workers laid” (See: Metonymy)

This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here the narrator begins to explain the dimensions and the design of the temple.

“60 cubits…20 cubits.” A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “27.6 meters long…9.2 meters” (See: Numbers and Biblical Distance)

2 Chronicles 3:4

an area of a building made of columns and a roof that leads to and connects with the building’s entrance door. This portico was probably attached to the front part of the wall that surrounded the temple.

A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “9.2 meters” (See: Biblical Distance)

The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers overlaid” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 3:5

The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers fashioned … which they overlaid … which they carved” (See: Metonymy)

This is a reference to a large room, not a hallway.

2 Chronicles 3:6

The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers decorated” (See: Metonymy)

Stones that were beautiful, highly valued, and used for decorations.

This is probably the name of a region. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 3:7

The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers also overlaid … they carved” (See: Metonymy)

A beam is a long heavy piece of wood used to support a building.

2 Chronicles 3:8

The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers built … They overlaid” (See: Metonymy)

A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “9.2 meters” (See: Biblical Distance)

“600 talents.” A talent is 33 kilograms. Alternate translation: “about 20 metric tons” (See: Numbers and Biblical Money)

2 Chronicles 3:9

“50 shekels.” A shekel is 11 grams. Alternate translation: “.55 kilograms” or “about a half a kilogram”(See: Numbers and Biblical Money)

2 Chronicles 3:10

The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers made” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 3:11

A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “9.2 meters…2.3 meters” (See: Biblical Distance)

2 Chronicles 3:13

A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “9.2 meters” (See: Biblical Distance)

2 Chronicles 3:14

The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers made … they fashioned” (See: Metonymy)

Translate these words as you did in 2 Chronicles 2:7.

Alternate translation: “high quality cloth” or “the best cloth”

2 Chronicles 3:15

The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers also made” (See: Metonymy)

“35 cubits…5 cubits.” A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “16.1 meters…2.3 meters” (See: Numbers and Biblical Distance)

decorations on top of the pillars

2 Chronicles 3:16

The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “They made … they also made” (See: Metonymy)

“100 pomegranates” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 3:17

The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “They set up” (See: Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “on the right side … on the left side” or “on the south side … on the north side”

Alternate translation: “Solomon named”

Possibly a name to describe God as “The One who establishes.” (See: How to Translate Names)

This name means “in strength” and is possibly used here to describe God because it means, “In Him is strength.” (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 4

2 Chronicles 4 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The story of King Solomon and the building of the temple continues in this chapter. (See: temple, house, house of God)

Special concepts in this chapter

Special construction

Not only is the temple constructed in a special way, the things that are used in the temple’s sacrificial system and its decorations are constructed in a special way.

2 Chronicles 4:1

Here “he” refers to Solomon. The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers made” (See: Metonymy)

A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “20 cubits…10 cubits” or “9.2 meters…4.6 meters” (See: Biblical Distance)

2 Chronicles 4:2

A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “4.6 meters…2.3 meters…13.8 meters” (See: Biblical Distance)

This refers to a tank or basin that would hold water.

This is metal that was melted then formed in a mold.

Alternate translation: “from one edge to the other”

Circumference is the distance or measurement around a circular object or area.

2 Chronicles 4:3

A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “every 46 centimeters” (See: Biblical Distance)

Alternate translation: “ten per cubit”

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “when the workers cast the sea itself” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 4:4

This refers to the tank or basin that held water for sacrifices.

Alternate translation: “was on top of twelve oxen”

These are images of oxen made of bronze. Alternate translation: “twelve large figures of bulls” or “twelve bronze oxen” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers set ‘The Sea’ on top of the oxen” (See: Active or Passive)

This is the back quarter of the body of an animal with four feet.

2 Chronicles 4:5

This is about 8 centimeters. (See: Biblical Distance)

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: “Solomon’s workers forged the brim to look like the brim of a cup, to curve outward like a lily” (See: Active or Passive)

“3,000 baths.” A bath is a unit of volume equal to about 22 liters. Alternate translation: “66 kiloliters” (See: Numbers and Biblical Volume)

2 Chronicles 4:6

Here “he” refers to Solomon. The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers made … they put” (See: Metonymy)

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: “people were to wash the items used in performing the burnt offering in them” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 4:7

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: “according to the instructions for their design” or “according to how Solomon instructed his workers to design them” (See: Active or Passive)

Alternate translation: “on the right side … on the left side” or “on the south side … on the north side”

2 Chronicles 4:8

“100 basins” (See: Numbers)

shallow bowls used for washing

2 Chronicles 4:9

Alternate translation: “the large court”

2 Chronicles 4:10

Here “he” refers to Solomon. The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “They placed” (See: Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “next to the southeast corner of the temple”

2 Chronicles 4:11

See how you translated this name in 2 Chronicles 2:13.

bowls that held blood that was used in the house of God for sprinkling the altar

Here Huram represents all who worked on the temple. Alternate translation: “Huram and the other workers finished the work that they did” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 4:12

The upper part of a pillar is called a capital. See how you translated “capital” in 2 Chronicles 3:15. Alternate translation: “bowl-shaped tops” or “bowl-shaped upper parts”

This refers to the decorative carving or markings on the upper part of the pillars. Alternate translation: “carvings that resembled chains”

2 Chronicles 4:13

Here Huram represents all who worked on the temple. Alternate translation: “Huram and the other workers had made” (See: Synecdoche)

“the 400 pomegranates.” Translate “pomegranates” as you did in 2 Chronicles 3:16. (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 4:14

Here Huram, who is also called Huram-Abi, represents all those who worked with him. Alternate translation: “They also made” (See: Synecdoche)

Alternate translation: “the bowls”

2 Chronicles 4:15

This is a large decorative washing container. Translate “sea” as you did in 2 Chronicles 4:2 and “bulls” as you did in 2 Chronicles 4:3.

2 Chronicles 4:16

Here Huram, who is also called Huram-Abi, represents all those who worked with him. Alternate translation: “Huram-Abi and his craftsmen made” (See: Synecdoche)

Alternate translation: “other tools” or “other objects used for the altar”

Bronze that the workmen polished so that it would reflect light.

2 Chronicles 4:17

The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “The king commanded his workers to cast them” (See: Metonymy)

This is the name of a city. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 4:18

The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers made” or “Solomon had his workers make” (See: Metonymy)

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. This could mean: (1) there was so much bronze no one tried to weigh it. Alternate translation: “no one even tried to weigh the bronze” or (2) this is a hyperbole that emphasizes the great amount of bronze. Alternate translation: “no one could even determine how much all the bronze weighed” (See: Active or Passive and Hyperbole)

2 Chronicles 4:19

The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s workers made” (See: Metonymy)

This refers to all of the bowls and tools that were used in the house of God.

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 tables on which the priests were to place the bread of the presence” (See: Active or Passive)

This is a reference to the 12 loaves of bread that were placed in front of the altar. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 2:4.

2 Chronicles 4:21

The “flowers” and “lamps” were part of the lampstands.

This is a tool made from two sticks of wood or metal connected at one end and used for picking up objects.

2 Chronicles 4:22

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 workers also made the lamp trimmers … out of pure gold” (See: Active or Passive)

These would have been used to trim the wicks of the lamps.

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 workers made its inner doors … out of gold” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 5

2 Chronicles 5 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The story of King Solomon continues in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

Moving the contents of the tent

Everything from the tent was moved into the new temple. This too was done in a special way. (See: temple, house, house of God)

2 Chronicles 5:1

The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “When Solomon’s workers completed all of the work for the house of Yahweh, they brought” (See: Metonymy and Active or Passive)

storerooms, rooms where things are kept or stored

2 Chronicles 5:2

Alternate translation: “called together the leaders of Israel”

Here “heads” is a metaphor for the most important part of something. Alternate translation: “all the leaders of the tribes” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 5:3

This may refer either: (1) to the people whom Solomon called to Jerusalem and who are listed in 5:2 or (2) generally to those who traveled to Jerusalem for the feast, not necessarily to every male person who lived in Israel. (See: Hyperbole)

This is the Festival of Shelters which is on the fifteenth day of the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar. This is near the beginning of October on Western calendars. (See: Hebrew Months and Ordinal Numbers and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 5:5

This refers to all of the bowls and tools that were used in the house of God. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 4:19

2 Chronicles 5:6

Here “all” is a generalization meaning very many Israelites. (See: Hyperbole)

This is an exaggeration that emphasizes the great number of animals that were sacrificed. 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: “sacrificing more sheep and oxen than anyone could count” or “sacrificing very many sheep and oxen” (See: Hyperbole and Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 5:7

Alternate translation: “into the inner room of the house—that is, to the most holy place—under”

2 Chronicles 5:8

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: “poles by which the priests carried it” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 5:9

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: “people could see their ends … people could not see them”

This means the day on which the writer wrote.

2 Chronicles 5:11

This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way of doing this, you could consider using it here.

2 Chronicles 5:12

These are names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

Alternate translation: “sons and other relatives”

two thin, round metal plates that are hit together to make a loud sound (See: Translate Unknowns)

“one hundred and twenty priests” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 5:13

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: “making one sound as they praised and thanked Yahweh” (See: Active or Passive)

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “sang loudly” (See: Idiom)

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word covenant loyalty, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “faithful.” Alternate translation: “for he is faithful forever” (See: Abstract Nouns)

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Then a cloud filled the house of Yahweh” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 6

2 Chronicles 6 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The story of King Solomon continues in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

Temple dedication

Solomon dedicated the temple with a prayer asking God to honor the temple. It was common to dedicate something important to God when it was completed. (See: temple, house, house of God)

2 Chronicles 6:1

Solomon speaks to Yahweh as if he were speaking to someone else to show that he respects Yahweh. Alternate translation: “Yahweh, you have said that you” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

Here the word “thick” shows that the darkness is extreme. Yahweh spoke of not allowing sinful people to see him as if he were to live in darkness. Alternate translation: “in great darkness” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 6:2

Solomon speaks of commanding the people to build the temple and telling them how to do it as if he himself had built it. Alternate translation: “I and your people have built you a lofty residence” (See: Synecdoche)

a magnificent house, appropriate for someone who is very important

2 Chronicles 6:3

The phrase “all the assembly” is a generalization. It does not mean that every person of Israel was standing, but that all of the people who were gathered there were standing. Alternate translation: “while the people of Israel there were standing” (See: Hyperbole)

2 Chronicles 6:4

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: “Praise Yahweh, the God of Israel” (See: Active or Passive)

King Solomon actually was one of King David’s sons.

“has caused it to happen.” The word “it” refers to what God had promised. Alternate translation: “has ensured that he fulfilled his promises” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

The hand is a metonym for power. Alternate translation: “by his own power” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 6:5

Here the metonym “my name” represents Yahweh’s reputation, and his name being there represents people recognizing his greatness and worshiping him there. Alternate translation: “for people to worship me there” (See: Metonymy)

Being “prince over people” represents ruling them. Alternate translation: “to rule my people Israel” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 6:6

Being “over” people represents ruling them. Alternate translation: “to rule my people Israel” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 6:7

King Solomon continues speaking to the people at the temple.

Here David’s heart is spoken of as if it were a container, and what he desired is spoken of as if it were an item in the container. Alternate translation: “David my father desired” (See: Metaphor)

This could mean: (1) Yahweh’s name represents himself. Alternate translation: “for Yahweh … for me” or (2) Yahweh’s name represents his reputation. Alternate translation: “for Yahweh’s reputation” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 6:8

Here David’s heart is spoken of as if it were a container, and what he desired is spoken of as if it were an item in the container. Alternate translation: “you desired … to desire to do that” (See: Metaphor)

This could mean: (1) Yahweh’s name represents himself. Alternate translation: “for me” or (2) Yahweh’s name represents his reputation. Alternate translation: “for my reputation” (See: Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “Because it was in your heart” or “Because you wanted”

2 Chronicles 6:9

Alternate translation: “one who will be your own offspring” or “one whom you yourself will father”

2 Chronicles 6:10

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “has done exactly what he said he would do” (See: Idiom)

Height is a metaphor for power. Alternate translation: “I have gained the power that David my father had” (See: Metaphor)

The throne is a metonym for the activity of the one who sits on the throne. Alternate translation: “I rule over Israel” (See: Metonymy)

This could mean: (1) Yahweh’s name represents himself. Alternate translation: “for Yahweh” or (2) Yahweh’s name represents his reputation. Alternate translation: “for the reputation of Yahweh” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 6:11

The stone tablets on which Yahweh had written the terms of the covenant are spoken of as if they were the covenant itself. Alternate translation: “in which are the tablets on which Yahweh wrote the terms of the covenant that” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 6:12

Alternate translation: “in front of the people of Israel who had gathered there”

“raised his hands.” This was to show that he was praying. (See: Symbolic Action)

2 Chronicles 6:13

You may convert these to modern measures. Alternate translation: “two and one-third meters long, two and one-third meters wide, and one and one-half meters high” (See: Biblical Distance)

Solomon lifted up his hands and held them high as he knelt on the platform to pray. Spreading out his hands toward the heavens was a way of showing that he was praying to Yahweh. (See: Symbolic Action)

2 Chronicles 6:14

This can be stated as a new sentence. Alternate translation: “on the earth. You keep your promise to love your servants” or “on the earth. You faithfully love your servants”

The way a person lives is spoken of as if that person were walking on a path. Alternate translation: “live wholeheartedly the way that you want them to” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 6:15

“you who have kept your promise to your servant David my father.” To keep a promise is an idiom that means to do what one has promised. Alternate translation: “you who have done what you promised your servant David my father” (See: Idiom)

The phrase “with your mouth” may emphasize that God himself spoke. It was not someone else who made the promise. Alternate translation: “you yourself spoke”

The hand is a metonym for the power of the hand. Alternate translation: “and, by your power, have fulfilled what you said” or “and by your power have done what you said” (See: Metonymy)

This refers to the day when Solomon was saying this prayer.

2 Chronicles 6:16

King Solomon continues praying.

This is a request. To carry out what one has said is an idiom meaning to do what one has said. Alternate translation: “please do what you have promised” (See: Idiom)

God speaking in terms of David having a man implies that the man would be a descendant of David. This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “you will always have a descendant” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Double Negatives)

The phrase “in my sight” here implies that God would choose the man and the man would want to obey God. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

The throne is a metonym for the activity of the one who sits on the throne. Alternate translation: “to rule over Israel” (See: Metonymy)

The way a person behaves is spoken of as if that person were walking on a path. Alternate translation: “to obey my law, as you have obeyed me” or “to be faithful to my law as you have been faithful to me” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 6:17

Alternate translation: “I want you to make come true the word that you have spoken to your servant David”

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “confirm your word” or “make your word come true” (See: Active or Passive)

Alternate translation: “your promise”

2 Chronicles 6:18

King Solomon continues praying.

Possible meanings of this question are: (1) Solomon is asking a real question and expecting an answer or (2) the question is rhetorical and Solomon is emphasizing that God is too big and mighty to live on earth. Alternate translation: “But it surely cannot be that God will actually live on the earth!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Here Solomon speaks about God in the third person to show his great respect for God. It can be stated in the second person. Alternate translation: “But will you” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

Here “Look” indicates that he is about to say something important.

Alternate translation: “you, so this temple that I have built certainly cannot contain you”

Solomon speaks of commanding the people to build the temple and telling them how to do it as if he himself had built it. Alternate translation: “this temple that your people have built under my leadership” or “this house that I and your people have built” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 6:19

The words “prayer” and “request” mean basically the same thing and emphasize that he is sincere as he makes his request. Solomon refers to himself as “your servant” to show that he respects Yahweh. This can be stated in first person. Alternate translation: “respect me, your servant, as I make this request” (See: Doublet and First, Second or Third Person)

The words “cry” and “prayer” mean basically the same thing and emphasize that he is sincere as he asks Yahweh to help him. Solomon refers to himself as “your servant” to show that he respects Yahweh. This can be stated in first person. Alternate translation: “listen to me, your servant, as I call for you to help me” (See: Doublet and First, Second or Third Person)

2 Chronicles 6:20

The eyes being open is a metonym for watching, and here watching represents protecting. “Please watch over this temple” or “Please protect this temple” (See: Metaphor)

This is a merism. Alternate translation: “all the time” or “continually” (See: Merism)

This could mean: (1) Yahweh’s name represents himself. Alternate translation: “where you promised to be” or (2) Yahweh’s name represents his reputation. Alternate translation: “where you promised to make people know you” (See: Metonymy)

Solomon refers to himself as “your servant” to show that he respects Yahweh. This can be stated in first person. Alternate translation: “the prayer that I, your servant, pray toward this place” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

2 Chronicles 6:21

King Solomon continues praying.

Solomon speaks of himself as “your servant” to show that he respects Yahweh. This can be stated in first person. Alternate translation: “So listen to my requests and the requests of your people Israel” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

Alternate translation: “when you hear our prayers, please forgive our sins”

2 Chronicles 6:22

King Solomon continues praying.

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “someone requires him to swear an oath” (See: Active or Passive)

This refers to the temple.

2 Chronicles 6:23

To bring someone’s conduct on him represents punishing him for his bad conduct. Alternate translation: “punishing him as he deserves” (See: Metaphor)

Here the “head” refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: “on him” (See: Synecdoche)

Alternate translation: “give him what he deserves because he is innocent”

2 Chronicles 6:24

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “When an enemy defeats your people Israel” (See: Active or Passive)

Alternate translation: “because your people Israel have sinned against you”

Here “turn back to you” represents submitting again to God. Alternate translation: “if they submit to you again” (See: Metaphor)

This could mean: (1) “confess that they have sinned against you” or (2) “praise you” or (3) “say that they will obey you from now on.”

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word forgiveness, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “ask you to forgive them” (See: Abstract Nouns)

2 Chronicles 6:25

To “listen” is an idiom for responding to prayer. Alternate translation: “please honor their prayer” or “please answer their prayer” (See: Idiom)

This implies that when their enemies defeated them, God’s people will have gone to live in other lands. Alternate translation: “bring them back to their own land” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 6:26

The sky is spoken of as if it were a building in which God stores the rain, and when God does not want it to rain he closes the door to the building. Alternate translation: “When you do not allow rain to fall from the skies” (See: Metaphor)

This could mean: (1) “confess that they have sinned against you” or (2) “praise you” or (3) “say that they will obey you from now on.”

Here “turn from” is a metaphor for stopping doing it. Alternate translation: “stop committing their sins” or “stop acting sinfully” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 6:27

The way a person lives is spoken of as if that person were walking on a path. Alternate translation: “the good way that they should live” (See: Metaphor)

The land is spoken of as if it were an inheritance because God wanted them to possess it forever. Alternate translation: “your land, which you have given to your people to own forever” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 6:28

These are agricultural terms that refer to the death of crops from either too little or too much rain, respectively.

A “locust” is a type of grasshopper that causes destruction by eating crops. The word “caterpillar” refers to an early growth stage of the locust.

2 Chronicles 6:29

The words “prayers” and “requests” mean basically the same thing and emphasize that the person is sincere as he makes his requests. (See: Doublet)

Here “plague” is a metaphor for sin, and sin and sorrow are spoken of as being in people’s hearts. Alternate translation: “knowing the sin and sorrow in his own heart” (See: Metaphor)

This was a way of showing that they were praying to the God of the temple. See how you translated “spread out his hands” in 2 Chronicles 6:12. (See: Symbolic Action)

2 Chronicles 6:30

Here “his ways” represents the person’s behavior. Alternate translation: “for what he has done” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 6:31

Here “walk in your ways” represents living and behaving the way God wants. Alternate translation: “so that they may live as you want them to” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 6:32

King Solomon continues praying.

It is implied that the foreigners come because they hear about God’s greatness. Alternate translation: “who hears about your great name, your mighty hand, and your outstretched arm—if he comes” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Here God’s name represents his reputation. Alternate translation: “your great reputation” or “your greatness” (See: Metonymy)

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and refer to God’s power. (See: Doublet and Metonymy)

Praying toward Yahweh’s temple shows that one is praying to Yahweh. (See: Symbolic Action)

2 Chronicles 6:33

Here God’s name represents his reputation. Alternate translation: “may know your reputation” or “may know your greatness” (See: Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “as your own people Israel know your name and fear you”

The phrase “is called by your name” shows that God possesses and owns the house. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you own this house that I have built” (See: Active or Passive)

Solomon speaks of commanding the people to build the temple and telling them how to do it as if he himself had built it. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 6:18. Alternate translation: “this house that your people have built under my leadership” or “this house that I and your people have built” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 6:34

King Solomon continues praying.

When Solomon was speaking, these hypothetical situations had not happened, but Solomon knew that they might happen in the future. Use the form in your language for talking about events that have not happened but might happen in the future. (See: Hypothetical Situations)

Praying toward Jerusalem and the temple shows that they are praying to Yahweh. (See: Symbolic Action)

Solomon speaks of commanding the people to build the temple and telling them how to do it as if he himself had built it. Alternate translation: “this house that your people have built under my leadership” or “this house that I and your people have built” (See: Synecdoche)

This could mean: (1) Yahweh’s name represents himself. Alternate translation: “for you” or (2) Yahweh’s name represents his reputation. Alternate translation: “for your reputation” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 6:35

The abstract nouns “prayer” and “request” can be stated as verbs. Alternate translation: “to what they request when they pray to you” (See: Doublet)

This refers to helping them fight against their enemies.

2 Chronicles 6:36

King Solomon continues praying.

Here “hand them over to the enemy” represents allowing the enemy to capture them. (See: Metaphor)

Here “carries them away” represents forcing them to leave their own country. Alternate translation: “so that the enemy forces them to leave” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 6:37

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: “where their enemies have taken them as exiles” (See: Active or Passive)

Alternate translation: “beg you to be merciful to them”

These two sentences mean the same thing. Together they emphasize how bad the people’s actions were. (See: Parallelism)

The words mean basically the same thing and emphasize how badly the people sinned. (See: Doublet)

2 Chronicles 6:38

Here “return to you” represents submitting to Yahweh again. Alternate translation: “they submit to you again” (See: Metaphor)

The idioms “with all their heart” means “completely” and “with all their soul” means “with all their being.” These two phrases have similar meanings. Alternate translation: “completely” (See: Idiom and Doublet)

Alternate translation: “where their enemies took them as captives”

This refers to Israel. Praying toward Israel would show that they were praying to Yahweh, the God of Israel. Alternate translation: “that they pray facing their land” (See: Symbolic Action)

This refers to Jerusalem.

Solomon speaks of commanding the people to build the temple and telling them how to do it as if he himself had built it. Alternate translation: “the house that your people have built under my leadership” or “the house that I and your people have built” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 6:39

The words “prayer” and “requests” mean basically the same thing and emphasize that the people are sincere as they make their requests. Alternate translation: “their requests” (See: Doublet)

2 Chronicles 6:40

Here the word “now” is used to draw attention to the important point that follows.

The eyes being open is a metonym for seeing. Here it represents looking attentively. Alternate translation: “please pay attention to us” or “please look at us” (See: Metonymy)

The ears being attentive is a metonym for listening attentively. Alternate translation: “please listen to the prayer” (See: Metonymy)

This can be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “to the prayer that we make in this place” or “to us as we pray to you in this place” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 6:41

This pictures God as if he were sitting on his throne, and asks that he will get up from his throne and come to this place. Alternate translation: “arise, Yahweh God, and come to your resting place” (See: Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “the ark, which is a symbol of your power”

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word salvation, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “to save.” This could mean: (1) being clothed with salvation is a metaphor for experiencing salvation. Alternate translation: “Let your priests … know that you have saved them” or (2) being clothed with salvation is a metaphor for demonstrating salvation. Alternate translation: “Let your priests … demonstrate how you save people” (See: Metaphor and Abstract Nouns)

2 Chronicles 6:42

Turning the face of someone away represents rejecting him. Alternate translation: “do not reject your anointed one” (See: Metaphor)

“your anointed one.” Being anointed is a metonym for being chosen by God. King Solomon may have been speaking specifically about himself. 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 one you anointed” or “me, the one you chose to be king” (See: Metonymy and Active or Passive)

The phrase “your acts” can be expressed with the phrase “what you have done.” Alternate translation: “Remember what you have done for David, your servant, because of your covenant loyalty”

Alternate translation: “Remember”

2 Chronicles 7

2 Chronicles 7 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The story of King Solomon continues in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

Solomon’s dream

God appeared again to Solomon in a dream and said the temple was acceptable and he honored it with his presence. He would remain as long as Israel obeyed him. If they worshiped other gods and idols he would let their enemies destroy the temple. (See: temple, house, house of God and god, false god, goddess, idol, idolater, idolatrous, idolatry)

2 Chronicles 7:1

Alternate translation: “Yahweh’s house” or “the temple”

2 Chronicles 7:3

This is a position of humility and worship. Alternate translation: “they lay down on the ground with their faces touching the stone pavement” (See: Symbolic Action)

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word covenant loyalty, you could express the same idea with the adjective “loyal” and the verb “promise.” Alternate translation: “God will always be loyal to us because of his covenant” or “God will always faithfully do for us what he promised” (See: Abstract Nouns)

2 Chronicles 7:4

This generalization refers either: (1) to the people whom Solomon called to Jerusalem and who are listed in 2 Chronicles 5:2, or (2) to those who traveled to Jerusalem for the feast, not necessarily to every person who lived in Israel. (See: Hyperbole)

2 Chronicles 7:5

“22,000 oxen” (See: Numbers)

“one hundred and twenty thousand sheep and goats” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 7:6

Alternate translation: “each standing in their appointed place”

The word “stood” is understood from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: the Levites also stood with instruments of music of Yahweh” (See: Ellipsis)

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word faithfulness, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “faithfully” or “faithful.” See how you translated “covenant faithfulness” in 2 Chronicles 7:3. Alternate translation: “God will always be faithful to his covenant with us” or “God will always faithfully love us” (See: Abstract Nouns)

This generalization refers to those who were at the feast in Jerusalem, not necessarily to every person who lived in Israel. (See: Hyperbole)

2 Chronicles 7:7

The author speaks of Solomon commanding someone to make the bronze altar and telling him how to do it as if Solomon himself had made it. Alternate translation: “the bronze altar that he had commanded someone to make” or “the bronze altar that he had caused to be made” (See: Metonymy)

This was because there were so many offerings. Alternate translation: “was not able to hold the large amount of burnt offerings, grain offerings, and fat” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 7:8

This generalization refers to those who were at the feast in Jerusalem, not necessarily to every person who lived in Israel. (See: Hyperbole)

Lebo Hamath was north of Israel, and the brook of Egypt was south of Israel. These are used together to emphasize that people from every part of Israel were at the festival. Alternate translation: “from Lebo Hamath in the north to the brook of Egypt in the south” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Merism and How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 7:9

The word “eighth” is the ordinal form of “8.” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

This was a special religious gathering.

Here “kept the dedication” is an idiom meaning “celebrated the dedication.” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 7:10

This is the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar. The twenty-third day is near the middle of October on Western calendars. (See: Hebrew Months and Ordinal Numbers)

The words “glad” and “joyful” mean basically the same thing. Together they emphasize the intensity of joy. Alternate translation: “with very glad hearts” or “and they were very joyful” (See: Doublet)

Alternate translation: “because Yahweh had shown wonderful goodness” or “because Yahweh had been so good”

“Israel, God’s people.” The phrase “his people” emphasizes God’s faithfulness to Israel. (See: Distinguishing Versus Informing or Reminding)

2 Chronicles 7:11

The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “the workers whom Solomon commanded finished the house of Yahweh and Solomon’s own house” (See: Metonymy)

The heart is spoken of as if it were a container, and desires are spoken of as if they came into the heart. Alternate translation: “Everything that Solomon desired to make” (See: Metaphor)

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “he successfully finished” or “he caused to be done successfully (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 7:12

Alternate translation: “at night” or “one night”

Alternate translation: “the house where people will offer sacrifices to me”

2 Chronicles 7:13

Here “heavens” refers to the sky, and is spoken of as if it were a building in which God stores the rain. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 6:26. Alternate translation: “Suppose that I do not allow the rain to fall from the skies” (See: Metaphor)

The word “land” represents the plants and crops on the land. (See: Metonymy)

Here “send disease” represents causing diseases. Alternate translation: “if I cause my people to have diseases” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 7:14

Here being called by God’s name is an idiom meaning belonging to God. Alternate translation: “who belong to me” (See: Idiom)

Here God’s face represents his acceptance of them. Possible meanings are seek my face represents: (1) urgently asking him for forgiveness. Alternate translation: “beg me to forgive them” or (2) strongly wanting to please him. Alternate translation: “choose to please me” (See: Metaphor)

Here “turn from” is a metaphor meaning to stop doing something, and “ways” represent behavior. Alternate translation: “stop their wicked behavior” or “stop doing wicked things” (See: Metaphor)

Here land that does not produce much is spoken of as though it were sick. Alternate translation: “make their land good again” or “make their land produce good crops” (See: Personification)

2 Chronicles 7:15

The eyes being open is a metonym for seeing. Here it represents looking attentively. Alternate translation: “I will pay attention to you” or “I will watch you” (See: Metonymy)

The ears being attentive is a metonym for listening attentively. Alternate translation: “I will listen to the prayers” (See: Metonymy)

This can be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “to the prayers that you make in this place” or “to you as you pray to me in this place” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 7:16

This could mean: (1) God’s name represents himself. Alternate translation: “that I may be there forever” or (2) God’s name represents Yahweh’s reputation, and his name being there represents people worshiping him there. Alternate translation: “for people to worship me there forever” (See: Metonymy)

Here “My eyes” represents God’s careful attention, and “my heart” represents his love. These being at his temple implies that he will protect his temple. Alternate translation: “I will watch and protect it forever” (See: Metonymy and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 7:17

Here “you” refers to King Solomon.

Here walking is a metaphor for living. Walking before God represents living in obedience to him. Alternate translation: “If you obey me as David your father did” (See: Metaphor)

Solomon was one of David’s sons.

Alternate translation: “obeying my statutes and my decrees”

2 Chronicles 7:18

Here the throne represents ruling. Establishing the throne of Solomon’s kingdom represents causing Solomon to have descendants who will rule over Israel. Alternate translation: “I will make descendants of yours rule over your kingdom” (See: Metonymy)

This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “One of your descendants will always be ruler in Israel” or “Descendants of yours will always rule in Israel”

2 Chronicles 7:19

Here “turn away” from God is a metaphor meaning to stop worshiping him. Alternate translation: “But if you stop worshiping me” (See: Metaphor)

Possible meanings are that the word you refers: (1) to all the people of Israel, or (2) to Solomon and his descendants.

Here the words “commandments” and “statutes” mean basically the same thing and emphasize all that Yahweh has commanded. (See: Doublet)

2 Chronicles 7:20

The word “them” refers to the people of Israel. God speaks of making his people leave his land as if they were plants that he would pull up by their roots out of the soil. Alternate translation: “I will make them leave the land I have given them” (See: Metaphor)

This refers to the temple.

This could mean: (1) Yahweh’s name represents himself. Alternate translation: “that I have set apart for myself” or (2) Yahweh’s name represents his reputation. Alternate translation: “that I have set apart for my reputation” (See: Metonymy)

God speaks of rejecting his temple as if he were to throw it far away from himself. Alternate translation: “I will reject it” or “I will ignore it” (See: Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “I will cause all the peoples to make proverbs and jokes about it” or “because of what I do to it, all the nations will mock and ridicule it”

2 Chronicles 7:21

Alternate translation: “will be amazed”

This is how they would show that they are shocked by what happened to the temple (See: Symbolic Action)

2 Chronicles 7:22

Alternate translation: “they were unfaithful to Yahweh” or “they did not obey Yahweh”

This phrase tells why they should have worshiped God. (See: Distinguishing Versus Informing or Reminding)

Here “laid hold of” represents choosing to be loyal to them. Alternate translation: “they chose to be loyal to other gods” (See: Metaphor)

These two phrases mean the same thing. The phrase “bowed down to them” describes the posture that people used in worship. (See: Parallelism)

2 Chronicles 8

2 Chronicles 8 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The story of King Solomon continues in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

Solomon’s victories

Solomon achieved many victory when he was king. This chapter records many of these victories. Israel is at its height of power when Solomon was king.

2 Chronicles 8:1

This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way of doing this, you could consider using it here.

“after 20 years” (See: Numbers)

The author writes of Solomon commanding the people to build the temple and palace and telling them how to do it as if he himself had built them. Alternate translation: “Solomon caused the house of Yahweh and his own house to be built” or “Solomon directed the building of the temple and his house” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 8:2

Hiram was the king of Tyre. See how you translated his name in 2 Chronicles 2:11. Alternate translation: “Hiram, the king of Tyre” or “King Hiram” (See: How to Translate Names)

The author speaks of Solomon commanding the people to rebuild the towns as if he himself had rebuilt them. Alternate translation: “Solomon caused the towns that Hiram had given to him to be rebuilt” or “Solomon commanded and the people rebuilt the towns that Hiram had given to him” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 8:3

Solomon represents his whole fighting army. Alternate translation: “Solomon’s army attacked the town of Hamathzolbah” (See: Synecdoche and How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 8:4

Tadmor was a city north of Israel, in modern-day Syria. The author writes of Solomon commanding the people to build Tadmor as if Solomon himself built it. Alternate translation: “Solomon caused the town of Tadmor in the wilderness to be rebuilt” or “Solomon commanded, and the people built the town of Tadmor in the wilderness” (See: Synecdoche)

Tadmor was a city north of Israel, in modern-day Syria. (See: How to Translate Names)

“storage cities” or “supply cities.” These are cities where the government stored food or supplies.

2 Chronicles 8:5

These were two cities in Judah. The upper city was on top of a hill and the lower city was in a valley. Alternate translation: “Higher Beth Horon and Lower Beth Horon” or “Beth Horon of the Hill and Beth Horon of the Valley” (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 8:6

This was a city in Israel. (See: How to Translate Names)

Alternate translation: “all the lands that he ruled”

2 Chronicles 8:8

Alternate translation: “after those people died, their descendants who remained in the land”

Alternate translation: “slaves”

This phrase adds information about the descendants of those that Solomon had made into forced laborers. Alternate translation: “and their descendants are still forced laborers even now” (See: Distinguishing Versus Informing or Reminding)

This refers to the time when the book of 2 Chronicles was written. See how you translated it in 2 Chronicles 5:9.

2 Chronicles 8:9

Alternate translation: “Solomon did not make any of the people of Israel become slaves”

2 Chronicles 8:11

Alternate translation: “his wife, the daughter of Paharaoh”

The author writes about Solomon having his workers build a house for his wife as if he himself had built it. Alternate translation: “the house that he had his workers build for her” or “to the house he had commanded his workers to build for her” (See: Metonymy)

David was Solomon’s father and had been king before Solomon.

It can be stated that the ark had been brought into King David’s house. Alternate translation: “because the ark of Yahweh was brought into that house, and wherever the ark of Yahweh has come is holy” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 8:12

The author writes about Solomon having his workers build the altar as if he himself had built it. Alternate translation: “on Yahweh’s altar that Solomon had his workers build” or “the Yahweh’s altar that he had commanded his workers to build” (See: Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “Yahweh’s altar” or “the altar of Yahweh”

“the temple porch” or “the entrance to the temple.” This was a covered porch supported by columns, attached to the front of the temple.

2 Chronicles 8:13

Alternate translation: “as was required each day”

Here “following the directions” represents obeying them. Alternate translation: “obeying the directions” (See: Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “what Moses had commanded them”

Alternate translation: “the three festivals that they were to celebrate every year”

“the Festival of Tents.” This is a festival to celebrate God’s provision for his people. When the people of Israel wandered in the desert, they lived in temporary shelters. Each year when they harvested their crops, they stayed in temporary shelters in their gardens. In both situations, God provided for them.

2 Chronicles 8:14

Alternate translation: “According to the decrees of his father David” or “As his father David had decreed”

Alternate translation: “He also appointed groups of gatekeepers to each gate”

These were Levites who guarded the gates and only let inside those who had permission to go inside.

2 Chronicles 8:15

Here “deviate from the commands” represents to do something different from what was commanded. It can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “These people carefully obeyed the commands” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 8:16

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “They completed all the work that Solomon had ordered” (See: Active or Passive)

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “from the day they laid the foundation of the house of Yahweh” or “from the day they built the foundation of the house of Yahweh” (See: Active or Passive)

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 they finished building the temple” (See: Active or Passive)

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 house of Yahweh was complete” or “They completed building the house of Yahweh” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 8:17

These are towns along the Sea of Reeds. They had ports where people who had ships could stop. Alternate translation: “the towns of Ezion Geber and Elath, on the coast of the Sea of Reeds” (See: How to Translate Names and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 8:18

This is the name of a place. Its location is not known. (See: How to Translate Names)

“four hundred and fifty talents of gold.” You may convert this to a modern measure. Alternate translation: “about sixteen thousand kilograms of gold” or “about fifteen metric tons of gold” (See: Numbers and Biblical Weight)

2 Chronicles 9

2 Chronicles 9 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The story of King Solomon ends.

Special concepts in this chapter

Solomon’s fame

Solomon was famous outside of Israel because of his wisdom and tremendous wealth. (See: wise, wisdom)

2 Chronicles 9:1

Alternate translation: “a very large group of servants” or “a very long line of servants”

This is a generalization. Alternate translation: “everything she wanted to know” (See: Hyperbole)

2 Chronicles 9:2

This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “he answered every question” (See: Double Negatives)

2 Chronicles 9:3

Here “saw Solomon’s wisdom” represents realizing that Solomon was very wise. Alternate translation: “When the queen of Sheba realized how wise Solomon was, and when she saw the palace that he had built” (See: Metaphor)

The author writes about Solomon having his workers build his palace as if he himself had built it. Alternate translation: “the palace that Solomon had his workers build” or “the palace that he had commanded his workers to build” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 9:4

This could mean: (1) where his servants lived or (2) how his servants sat around the table.

“his wine servers.” These were servants who tasted the king’s wine to make sure that there was no poison in it. If it was safe to drink the wine, they would give it to the king.

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “she was completely amazed” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 9:5

Alternate translation: “I heard while I was in my own land”

Here the word “wisdom” can describe the word “words.” Alternate translation: “your wise words” (See: Hendiadys)

2 Chronicles 9:6

The phrase “my eyes” emphasizes that she herself saw it. Alternate translation: “now I have seen it for myself” (See: Synecdoche)

This can be stated it active form. Alternate translation: “They did not tell me about even half of your wisdom and wealth” or “You are much more wise and wealthy than what they told me” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 9:7

This is an exclamation that shows her amazement. Alternate translation: “Your people are greatly blessed” (See: Exclamations)

This is an exclamation that shows her amazement. Alternate translation: “your servants who constantly stand before you are greatly blessed” (See: Exclamations)

Hear “wisdom” represents the wise things that he says. Alternate translation: “they hear the wise things that you say” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 9:8

These phrases tell why people should praise Yahweh. Alternate translation: “because he has taken pleasure in you and placed you on his throne” (See: Distinguishing Versus Informing or Reminding)

Alternate translation: “who is pleased with you”

The idea of being on Yahweh’s throne represents having the authority to rule as Yahweh does. Being king “for Yahweh” means to represent Yahweh as king. Alternate translation: “who gave you authority to rule as he does, to represent Yahweh your God as king” (See: Metonymy)

This could mean: (1) “establish” represents helping them in general. Alternate translation: “in order to help them forever” or (2) “establish” represents making them strong as a nation. Alternate translation: “in order to make them a nation forever” (See: Metaphor)

The abstract nouns “justice” and “righteousness” can be expressed with the words “fairly” and “righteously.” Alternate translation: “for you to rule fairly and righteously” or “for you to do what is just and right” (See: Abstract Nouns)

2 Chronicles 9:9

“one hundred and twenty talents.” A talent is a unit of weight equal to about 33 kilograms. You may convert this to a modern measure. Alternate translation: “about four thousand kilograms of gold” or “about four metric tons of gold” (See: Numbers and Biblical Weight)

The verb “was ever given” can be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “No one ever gave more spices than the queen of Sheba gave to King Solomon” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 9:10

Hiram was the king of Tyre. See how you translated his name in 2 Chronicles 2:11. Alternate translation: “Hiram, the king of Tyre” or “King Hiram” (See: How to Translate Names)

This is the name of a place. Its location is not known. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 8:18. (See: How to Translate Names)

Algum is a kind of tree that grows in Lebanon. King Hiram sent this kind of wood to Solomon. See how you translated it in 2 Chronicles 2:8.

2 Chronicles 9:11

The author speaks of the king having his workers make these things as if he himself had made them. Alternate translation: “the king had his workers make the steps … as well as harps and lyres” or “the king’s workers made steps … well as harps and lyres” (See: Metonymy)

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “No one had seen wood like this before in the land of Judah” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 9:13

This could mean: (1) this refers to each year or (2) this refers to a particular year.

A talent is a unit of weight equal to about 33 kilograms. You may convert this to a modern measure. Alternate translation: “about twenty-two thousand kilograms of gold” or “about twenty-two metric tons of gold” (See: Biblical Weight and Numbers)

2 Chronicles 9:15

The author writes about Solomon having his workers make the shields as if he himself had made them. Alternate translation: “King Solomon had his workers make” or “King Solomon’s workers made” (See: Metonymy)

“200 large shields” (See: Numbers)

Alternate translation: “gold that people had beaten into thin sheets”

Here the phrase “went into” represents being made with. This could mean: (1) the shields were covered with sheets of gold. Alternate translation: “They covered each shield with six hundred shekels of gold” or (2) the shields were made of gold. Alternate translation: “They made each shield out of six hundred shekels of gold”

A shekel is a unit of weight equal to about 11 grams. You may convert this to a modern measure. Alternate translation: “Six and one half kilograms of gold” (See: Biblical Weight)

The word “shekels” does not appear here in the Hebrew text. Some modern versions assume instead the unit called bekah, which was equivalent to only a half shekel. Any version making this assumption would signal a metric equivalent of about three kilograms.

2 Chronicles 9:16

The author writes about Solomon having his workers make the shields as if he himself had made them. Alternate translation: “King Solomon had his workers also make” or “His workers also made”(See: Metonymy)

“300 shields” (See: Numbers)

Here the phrase “went into” represents being made with. This could mean: (1) the shields were covered with sheets of gold. Alternate translation: “They covered each shield with three minas of gold” or (2) the shields were made of gold. Alternate translation: “They made each shield out of three minas of gold”

A mina is about 600 grams. You may convert this to a modern measure. Alternate translation: “One and three-quarters kilograms of gold” (See: Biblical Weight)

The author writes about Solomon having his workers put the shields in the palace as if he himself had put them there. Alternate translation: “King Solomon had his workers put them” or “King Solomon’s workers put them” (See: Metonymy)

Solomon’s palace was built of trees from Lebanon. This could mean: (1) this was the name of a large room in the palace. Alternate translation: “the Hall of the Forest of Lebanon” or (2) this was the name of his whole palace. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 9:17

The author speaks of commanding his workers to build the throne as if he himself had built it. Alternate translation: “the king had his workers make a great throne” or “the king’s workers made” (See: Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “a great throne decorated with ivory”

Ivory is the hard, white substance from the tusks or teeth of large animals, such as the elephant, walrus, or hippopotamus. (See: Translate Unknowns)

2 Chronicles 9:18

These were statues. Alternate translation: “two statues of lions” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 9:20

Solomon’s palace was built of trees from Lebanon. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 9:16. This could mean: (1) this was the name of a large room in the palace. Alternate translation: “the Hall of the Forest of Lebanon” or (2) this was the name of his whole palace. Alternate translation: “the Palace of the Forest of Lebanon” (See: How to Translate Names)

Silver was so common in Solomon’s days that if a king wanted to show his wealth, he would not do it by making things out of silver. Instead he would use gold, which was less common and more valuable. 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: “people did not value silver so much” (See: Active or Passive)

Here “Solomon’s days” refers to the time when Solomon ruled. Alternate translation: “when Solomon ruled” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 9:21

Alternate translation: “a group of ships that travel on the ocean”

Alternate translation: “along with Hiram’s fleet of ships”

It is not certain whether the word translated as “apes” here refers to apes, baboons, or monkeys. It is not certain whether the word translated as “baboons” here refers to baboons or peacocks. This can be translated more generally as “animals from far away” or “animals from Africa.” (See: Translate Unknowns)

2 Chronicles 9:23

The word “all” here is a generalization. Alternate translation: “Kings from around the world” (See: Hyperbole)

The presence of a person is a metonym for being able to speak and listen to the person. Alternate translation: “wanted to visit Solomon” or “came to visit Solomon” (See: Metonymy)

The heart is a metonym for what a person thinks, and here it is spoken of as if it were a container. Here, wisdom is a metonym for the wise things a person thinks or says. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word wisdom, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “to hear how wise God had enabled him to be” or “to hear him speak the wise words that God had enabled him to speak” (See: Metonymy)

God putting wisdom in Solomon’s heart represents God making Solomon wise. Alternate translation: “which God had given him” or “because God had made him wise” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 9:24

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “every year” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 9:25

“4,000 stalls…12,000 horsemen” (See: Numbers)

This is a small enclosure where horses are kept.

2 Chronicles 9:27

This is an exaggeration to emphasize that there was such a great amount of silver. (See: Hyperbole)

2 Chronicles 9:28

The word “they” may refer to Solomon’s merchants. However this sentence is not about what the merchants did, but about where Solomon’s horses came from. Alternate translation: “Horses were brought to Solomon from Egypt and from all the lands” or “Solomon’s horses were from Egypt and all the lands”

The word “all” is a generalization. Alternate translation: “from many other places” or “from many other countries” (See: Hyperbole)

2 Chronicles 9:29

The phrase “first and last” represents the whole time of Solomon’s reign. Alternate translation: “from the beginning to the end of his reign” (See: Merism)

The author uses the question to remind the readers that other people had written about Solomon. It can be expressed in active form Alternate translation: “they are written…(which also had information about Jeroboam son of Nebat.)” or “people have written about them…(which also had information about Jeroboam son of Nebat).” (See: Rhetorical Question)

These are the names of some writings that existed when 2 Chronicles was written, but they do not exist now.

This is a prophet from Shiloh who predicted that the nation of Israel would be divided into two kingdoms.

This is the name of a people group from the town of Shiloh. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 9:31

This was a polite way to tell about him dying. Alternate translation: “He died” (See: Euphemism)

2 Chronicles 10

2 Chronicles 10 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This begins a section on King Rehoboam. (2 Chronicles 10-12)

Special concepts in this chapter

Rehoboam’s taxes

The people asked Solomon’s son, Rehoboam, to reduce the heavy taxes and the forced labor Solomon had demanded but Rehoboam refused. He lacked the wisdom to follow the advice of the men who had been councilors of his father Solomon. So the ten northern tribes broke off and made Jeroboam their king. They were called “Israel” and Rehoboam’s kingdom was called Judah. This will cause confusion between the northern kingdom of Israel and the whole nation of Israel. (See: wise, wisdom)

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Metaphor

The people use the metaphor of a yoke to complain about the high taxes and forced labor Solomon demanded from the people. They said, “Your father made our yoke difficult.” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 10:1

Here “Israel” is a metonym for the men of Israel. The word “all” is a generalization. Alternate translation: “the men of Israel were coming” (See: Metonymy and Hyperbole)

2 Chronicles 10:2

These are the names of men. See how you translated these names in 2 Chronicles 9:29. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 10:3

Alternate translation: “the men of Israel sent for Jeroboam”

Alternate translation: “Jeroboam and all Israel came to Rehoboam”

Here “Israel” is a metonym for the men of Israel. The word “all” is a generalization. Alternate translation: “the men of Israel came” (See: Metonymy and Hyperbole)

2 Chronicles 10:4

A difficult yoke is a metaphor for very difficult labor and cruel treatment. Alternate translation: “treated us cruelly” or “forced us to work very hard” (See: Metaphor)

These two phrases mean the same thing. The yoke metaphor emphasizes the fact that Solomon had treated them harshly. Alternate translation: “make the hard work that your father gave us easier, and do not treat us as harshly as he did” (See: Parallelism and Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 10:5

“after 3 days” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 10:6

To “stand before” is an idiom for serving the king in his presence. Alternate translation: “the old men who counseled Solomon” or “the old men who attended to Solomon” (See: Idiom)

Alternate translation: “to answer these people” or “to reply to these people”

2 Chronicles 10:8

Alternate translation: “Rehoboam did not follow the advice”

Alternate translation: “who were his long-time friends, and who advised him”

2 Chronicles 10:9

To “lighten the yoke” is a metaphor that represents easing the burden. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 10:4. Alternate translation: “Do not treat us as cruelly as your father did” or “Do not force us to work as hard as your father did” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 10:10

A heavy yoke is a metaphor for very difficult labor and cruel treatment. This metaphor is continued in this verses. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 10:4. Alternate translation: “treated them cruelly” or “forced them to work very hard” (See: Metaphor)

This metaphor means that Rehoboam is more cruel and intimidating than his father. Alternate translation: “I rule much more harshly than my father ever did” or “I am much harsher than my father” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 10:11

A heavy yoke is a metaphor for very difficult labor and cruel treatment. This metaphor is continued in this verses. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 10:4. (See: Metaphor)

“I will make your yoke heavier.” A yoke is a metaphor for labor. Alternate translation: “I will force you to work harder” (See: Metaphor)

Possible meanings are that: (1) “scorpions” is a metaphor for any kind of painful punishment. Alternate translation: “I will punish you much more harshly” or (2) “scorpions” is a metaphor for whips with sharp metal barbs at the end. Alternate translation: “I will punish you with whips that have sharp pieces of metal at the ends” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 10:12

“after three days” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

2 Chronicles 10:14

A heavy yoke is a metaphor for very difficult labor and cruel treatment. Alternate translation: “treated you cruelly, but I will be more cruel” or “forced you to work very hard, but I will make you work harder” (See: Metaphor)

Possible meanings are that: (1) “scorpions” is a metaphor for any kind of painful punishment. Alternate translation: “I will punish you much more harshly” or (2) “scorpions” is a metaphor for whips with sharp metal barbs at the end. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 10:11. Alternate translation: “I will punish you with whips that have sharp pieces of metal at the ends” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 10:15

Here “listen to the people” represents not care about what they said or about actually doing what they asked. Alternate translation: “So the king did not do what the people had asked him to do” or “So the king ignored the people” (See: Metonymy)

This is an idiom and can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God caused things to happen like this” (See: Idiom and Active or Passive)

Alternate translation: “that Yahweh might do according to the message that he told Ahijah the Shilonite to tell Jeroboam son of Nebat” or “that Yahweh might do what he had said he would do when he told Ahijah the Shilonite to give a message to Jeroboam son of Nebat”

The idiom “carry out his word” means to do what he had said he would do. (See: Idiom)

This refers to the message that God gave Ahijah to tell Jeroboam.

See how you translated these names in 2 Chronicles 9:29. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 10:16

Here “Israel” is a metonym for the men of Israel. The word “all” is a generalization. Alternate translation: “the men of Israel” (See: Metonymy and Hyperbole)

Here “listen to the people” represents not caring about what they said or about actually doing what they asked. Alternate translation: “the king did not do what they had asked him to do” or “the king ignored them” (See: Metonymy)

The people use this question and statement to imply that since they do not belong to David’s family, they are not obligated to support David’s grandson, King Rehoboam. Alternate translation: “We have no share in David. We will not have anything to do with the descendants of the son of Jesse” (See: Rhetorical Question and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Having a share in someone represents being his descendants and receiving the good things that descendants receive. Alternate translation: “We do not belong to the family of David” (See: Metonymy)

“Son of Jesse” here is a metonym for David, a son of Jesse. Having an inheritance in someone represents being his descendants and receiving the good things that descendants receive. Alternate translation: “We will not receive any inheritance from the son of Jesse” or “We will have nothing to do with the his descendants” (See: Metonymy)

“Tent” here is a metonym representing people’s homes. Alternate translation: “Go to your homes, people of Israel” (See: Metonymy)

Here “see to” is an idiom meaning to take care of something, and “house” is a metonym for David’s lineage of power and prestige. Alternate translation: “Now take care of your own kingdom, descendant of David” (See: Idiom and Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 10:18

Adoniram is the name of a man. In the Hebrew text of this sentence, his name was written as Adoram. (See: How to Translate Names)

Being over people represents having authority to tell them what to do. Alternate translation: “who was in charge of the forced laborers” (See: Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “killed Adoniram by stoning him”

2 Chronicles 10:19

Here “the house of David” represents the kings who were descendants of David. Alternate translation: “against the kings descended from David” (See: Metonymy)

This refers to the general time when the author wrote this book. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 5:9. Alternate translation: “even now”

2 Chronicles 11

2 Chronicles 11 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The section on King Rehoboam continues in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

Strengthening their defenses

Rehoboam strengthened the defenses of Judah. Without the help of the northern tribes, the kingdom of Judah did not really have much power to defend itself from outside attacks. Therefore, Rehoboam felt it necessary to strengthen Judah’s military defenses.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Israel

When the author speaks about Israel, he is now referring almost exclusively to the northern kingdom of Israel and not the united nation of Israel.

2 Chronicles 11:1

Here “house” is a metonym that represents a tribe or descendants and refers specifically to the soldiers from the tribes of Judah and Benjamin. Alternate translation: “all the soldiers from the tribes of Judah and Benjamin” (See: Metonymy)

“one hundred and eighty thousand chosen men” (See: Numbers)

“choice men who were soldiers.” The phrase “chosen men” is an idiom that refers to elite soldiers who were skilled in battle. Alternate translation: “of the best soldiers” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 11:2

This is an idiom that is used to introduce something that God told his prophets or his people. Alternate translation: “Yahweh spoke this message … and he said” or “Yahweh spoke these words … and he said” (See: Idiom)

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

The expression “man of God” is a respectful way of referring to a prophet of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “the man who belongs to God” or “the prophet of God”

2 Chronicles 11:3

Here the word “Israel” refers to the Israelite people who live in the tribes of Judah and Benjamin. Alternate translation: “all of the Israelites in the tribes of Judah and Benjamin” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 11:4

This is a reference to the ten northern tribes. By calling them “brothers,” Yahweh emphasizes the family relationship between all of the tribes.

2 Chronicles 11:5

It might be best to translate so that the reader understands that other people helped Rehoboam build these cities. Alternate translation: “Rehoboam lived in Jerusalem and had his workers build cities” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 11:6

These are the names of cities. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 11:10

These are the names of cities. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 11:11

Here the word “fortresses” refers to fortified cities. That Rehoboam “fortified the fortresses” means that he built up and strengthened the defenses of these fortified cities. Alternate translation: “He strengthened the defenses of the fortified cities” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 11:12

Alternate translation: “made the cities very strong”

Rehoboam was in control of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin.

2 Chronicles 11:13

This could mean: (1) “The priests and Levites … supported Rehoboam from within their borders” or (2) “The priests and Levites … traveled from within their borders to join Rehoboam.”

2 Chronicles 11:14

lands used for animals

To “drive away” is an idiom that means to forcefully cause someone to leave. Alternate translation: “Jeroboam and his sons had forced them to leave” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 11:15

It might be best to translate so that the reader understands that other people helped Jeroboam make these idols. Alternate translation: “the goat idols and calf idols that he had his craftsmen make” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 11:16

Alternate translation: “People … followed the Levites” or “People … came to Jerusalem after the Levites”

Here the word “hearts” represents the thoughts and desires. The idiom “set their hearts” means to determine to do something. Alternate translation: “those who had determined to seek Yahweh” (See: Metonymy and Idiom)

Worshiping Yahweh is spoken of as if the person were seeking Yahweh. Alternate translation: “to worship Yahweh” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 11:17

The people supporting Rehoboam as king is spoken of as if they made Rehoboam strong. Alternate translation: “supported Rehoboam son of Solomon as king” (See: Metaphor)

Here a person’s actions and lifestyle are spoken of as if the person were walking along a path. Alternate translation: “they followed the example of David and Solomon for three years” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 11:18

These are the names of women. (See: How to Translate Names)

These are the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 11:19

These are the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 11:20

These are the names of women. (See: How to Translate Names)

This idiom means that he married her. Alternate translation: “Rehoboam married Maacah” (See: Idiom)

These are the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 11:21

“18 wives and 60 concubines…28 sons and 60 daughters” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 11:22

Alternate translation: “he had thought of making Abijah king”

2 Chronicles 11:23

Alternate translation: “he sent all his sons throughout all the land to every fortified city of Judah and Benjamin”

2 Chronicles 12

2 Chronicles 12 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter ends the section on King Rehoboam.

Special concepts in this chapter

Worshiping Yahweh

The safety of Israel and Judah was dependent upon the people worshiping Yahweh and not upon their military power. Because Rehoboam deserted the worship of God, God allowed the king of Egypt to take all of the wealth Solomon stored up.

2 Chronicles 12:1

This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “when Rehoboam had established his reign” (See: Active or Passive)

Here the words “all Israel” refer specifically to the people of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin, over which Rehoboam was king. The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “all the Israelite people whom he ruled also abandoned the law of Yahweh” (See: Metonymy and Ellipsis)

2 Chronicles 12:2

This phrase is used here to mark where the action starts. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

This refers to the fifth year of Rehoboam’s reign as king. Alternate translation: “in the fifth year that Rehoboam was king” or “in year five of King Rehoboam’s reign” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Ordinal Numbers)

“Shishak, king of Egypt” here is a metonym for Shishak along with the Egyptian army. Alternate translation: “Shishak, king of Egypt, and his army with him, came up against Jerusalem” (See: Metonymy)

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

This is an idiom that means marched against or attacked. Alternate translation: “came to attack” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 12:3

“1,200 chariots and 60,000 horsemen” (See: Numbers)

This exaggeration means that there were more soldiers than a person could easily count. Alternate translation: “Many soldiers” (See: Hyperbole)

These are people from Libya, Sukki, and Ethiopia. The location of Sukki is uncertain, but it may be a region in Libya. (See: How to Translate Names and Translate Unknowns)

2 Chronicles 12:5

This is the name of a man. See how you translated this word in 2 Chronicles 11:2. (See: How to Translate Names)

Here the word “hand” represents power. Yahweh speaks of enabling Shishak’s army to defeat the king and the others in Jerusalem as if he were placing them into Shishak’s hand. Alternate translation: “so I have enabled Shishak to defeat you” or “so I have given you to Shishak as captives” (See: Metonymy and Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 12:7

Alternate translation: “the princes of Israel and the king had humbled themselves”

This could mean: (1) Yahweh will permit Shishak to attack Jerusalem and cause trouble for the people, but he will rescue them from total destruction or (2) the words “to some extent” can be translated as soon, meaning that Yahweh will rescue the people of Jerusalem before Shishak can completely destroy the city.

Yahweh speaks of his anger as if it were a liquid, and of expressing his anger as if he were to pour out that liquid. Alternate translation: “I will not express my anger against Jerusalem” or “Jerusalem will not suffer the effects of my anger” (See: Metaphor)

Here the word “hand” represents Shishak himself. Alternate translation: “by means of Shishak” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 12:9

“Shishak, king of Egypt” here is a metonym for Shishak along with the Egyptian army. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 12:2. Alternate translation: “Shishak, king of Egypt, and his army with him, came up against Jerusalem” (See: Metonymy)

This is an idiom that means marched against or attacked. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 12:2. Alternate translation: “came to attack” (See: Idiom)

Here the word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of Yahweh” (See: Metonymy)

It might be best to translate so that the reader understands that other people helped Solomon make these shields. Alternate translation: “the shields of gold that Solomon had his craftsmen make” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 12:10

It might be best to translate so that the reader understands that other people helped Rehoboam make these shields. Alternate translation: “King Rehoboam had his craftsmen make shields of bronze” (See: Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “in place of the shields of gold”

Here the word “hands” represents care or responsibility. Alternate translation: “made them the responsibility of the commanders” (See: Metonymy)

Here the word “doors” represents the entrance. Alternate translation: “who guarded the entrance to the king’s house” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 12:11

This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

Alternate translation: “the guards would carry the shields”

2 Chronicles 12:12

Yahweh no longer being angry with Rehoboam is spoken of as if Yahweh’s anger were a person who turned away from Rehoboam. Alternate translation: “Yahweh was no longer angry with him and so did not destroy him completely” (See: Personification)

Alternate translation: “in addition, there was”

2 Chronicles 12:13

“41 years old…17 years” (See: Numbers)

Possible meanings for the phrase put his name are: (1) a metonym for “dwell.” Alternate translation: “so that he might dwell there” or (2) an idiom that refers to ownership. Alternate translation: “so that it might belong to him” (See: Metonymy and Idiom)

This is the name of a woman. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 12:14

Here the word “heart” represents the thoughts and desires. The idiom “fix his heart” means to determine to do something. Alternate translation: “he was not committed to seeking Yahweh” (See: Metonymy and Idiom)

Worshiping Yahweh is spoken of as if the person were seeking Yahweh. Alternate translation: “to worship Yahweh” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 12:15

“from beginning to end.” These two words form a merism and refer to everything that Rehoboam did from the beginning of his reign to the end of his reign. Alternate translation: “everything that he did” (See: Merism)

This can be expressed in active form and assumes that the answer is positive. The question is rhetorical and is used for emphasis. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “they are written … Jeroboam.” or “you can read about them … Jeroboam.” (See: Active or Passive and Rhetorical Question)

These are the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

The names of the kings represent the armies that they led. Alternate translation: “the wars in which Rehoboam’s army and Jeroboam’s army constantly engaged” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 12:16

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

Rehoboam dying is spoken of as if he had fallen asleep. Alternate translation: “Rehoboam died” (See: Metaphor and Euphemism)

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: “people buried him in the city of David” (See: Active or Passive)

The phrase “in his place” is a metaphor meaning “instead of him.” Alternate translation: “became king instead of Rehoboam” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 13

2 Chronicles 13 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Trust

Trusting in God, King Abijah of Judah was able to overcome the army of Israel even though it was twice as big as his army. (See: trust, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness)

2 Chronicles 13:1

This refers to the eighteenth year of Jeroboam’s reign as king. Alternate translation: “In the eighteenth year that Jeroboam was king” or “in year 18 of King Jeroboam’s reign” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Ordinal Numbers)

2 Chronicles 13:2

“Macaiah” is the name of a woman. “Uriel” is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

The names of the kings represent the armies that they led. Alternate translation: “There was war between the army of Abijah and the army of Jeroboam” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 13:3

“Four hundred thousand chosen men … eight hundred thousand chosen men.” The phrase “chosen men” is an idiom that refers to elite soldiers who were skilled in battle. Alternate translation: “400,000 skilled men…800,000 skilled men” (See: Numbers and Idiom)

2 Chronicles 13:4

(See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 13:5

Abijah asks this rhetorical question to emphasize the positive answer that it anticipates. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “You know very well … by a formal covenant.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

2 Chronicles 13:7

Alternate translation: “wicked men” or “evil men”

Alternate translation: “joined with Jeroboam”

2 Chronicles 13:8

This is a reference to a united Israel as it existed in the time of David and Solomon. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Here the word “hand” represents authority and possession. Abijah is claiming that only the descendants of David have the rightful authority to rule Yahweh’s kingdom. 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 the descendants of David hold within their hand” or “which only the descendants of David have the authority to rule” (See: Metonymy and Active or Passive)

It might be best to translate so that the reader understands that Jeroboam had others make the golden calves. Alternate translation: “the golden calves that Jeroboam had his craftsmen make” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 13:9

Abijah asks this rhetorical question to rebuke the people and to emphasize the positive answer that it anticipates. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “But you drive out … as the people of other lands do.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Alternate translation: “Anyone who comes to serve as a priest”

The phrase “what are not gods” refers to the golden calves that Jeroboam had his craftsmen make. Although the priests served them as if they were gods, they were not really gods. Alternate translation: “a priest of idols that are not really gods” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 13:10

The word “us” refers to the people of the southern kingdom of Judah.

The word “work” can be translated with a verb. Alternate translation: “who are working” (See: Abstract Nouns)

2 Chronicles 13:11

The “bread of the presence” refers to twelve loaves of bread that the priests placed on a golden table in the tabernacle or temple building as a sacrifice to God and as a symbol of God’s presence.

Alternate translation: “they also take care of the lampstand”

Alternate translation: “so that the lamps burn every evening” or “and light the lamps every evening”

2 Chronicles 13:12

Here the front of the army is spoken of as if it were the head. Abijah is saying that God is the one who is leading the army of Judah in battle. Alternate translation: “God is with us as our leader” (See: Metaphor)

Since Yahweh is leading the army of Judah, Abijah speaks of the army of Israel fighting against the army of Judah as if they were fighting against Yahweh himself. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 13:13

Alternate translation: “a surprise attack behind the army of Judah”

Alternate translation: “the soldiers who were to attack them by surprise were behind them”

2 Chronicles 13:14

Here “Judah” represents the soldiers in the army of Judah. Alternate translation: “When the soldiers of Judah looked back” (See: Metonymy)

The word “behold” here shows that the soldiers were surprised by what they saw.

The word “fighting” can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: “the army of Israel was fighting them from the front and from the back” (See: Abstract Nouns)

2 Chronicles 13:15

God enabling the army of Judah to defeat Jeroboam and the army of Israel is spoken of as if God struck Jeroboam and Israel. Alternate translation: “God enabled Abijah and the army of Judah to defeat Jeroboam and all Israel” (See: Metaphor)

Here the word “Israel” refers to the army. Alternate translation: “the entire army of Israel” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 13:16

Here the word “Judah” represents the army of Judah. Alternate translation: “fled before the army of Judah” (See: Metonymy)

Here the word “hand” represents power. God enabling the army of Judah to defeat the army of Israel is spoken of as if God had put the army of Israel in the hand of the army of Judah. Alternate translation: “God enabled Judah to defeat the people of Israel” (See: Metonymy and Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 13:17

This idiom means that they thoroughly defeated them, or that they killed very many of the soldiers. Alternate translation: “thoroughly defeated them” or “slaughtered many of their soldiers” (See: Idiom)

“five hundred thousand chosen men.” The phrase “chosen men” is an idiom that refers to elite soldiers who were skilled in battle. Alternate translation: “500,000 of the best soldiers” (See: Numbers and Idiom)

2 Chronicles 13:18

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 army of Judah subdued the people of Israel” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 13:19

Alternate translation: “Abijah chased after”

These are the names of cities. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 13:20

Yahweh causing Jeroboam to die is spoken of as if Yahweh struck Jeroboam. It is possible that this refers to Yahweh causing Jeroboam to become ill. Alternate translation: “Yahweh caused Jeroboam to die” or “Yahweh caused Jeroboam to become ill, and he died” (See: Metaphor and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 13:21

The idiom “took … wives” means that he married. Alternate translation: “he married fourteen women” (See: Idiom)

“14 wives…22 sons and 16 daughters” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 13:22

Alternate translation: “his behavior, and his sayings” or “his behavior, and the things that he said”

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: “are in the history that the prophet Iddo wrote” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 14

2 Chronicles 14 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter begins the section about King Asa. (2 Chronicles 14-16)

Special concepts in this chapter

Trust

Trusting in Yahweh, Asa was able to defeat million men of the army of Nubia. Trust in Yahweh is more important than military might. (See: trust, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness)

2 Chronicles 14:1

Abijah dying is spoken of as if he had fallen asleep. Alternate translation: “Abijah died” (See: Metaphor and Euphemism)

Alternate translation: “people buried him”

The phrase “in his place” is a metaphor meaning “instead of him.” Alternate translation: “became king instead of Abijah” (See: Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “During his reign”

There being no war is spoken of as if the land were quiet. Alternate translation: “there was peace in the land for ten years” or “there was no war in the land for ten years” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 14:2

The word “eyes” here represents seeing, and seeing represents judgment. Yahweh saw and approved of Asa’s actions. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh judged to be good and right” or “what Yahweh considered to be good and right” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 14:3

Since Asa was king, he may have told his officials to do these things. Alternate translation: “He had his people break down the stone pillars and cut down the Asherah poles” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 14:4

Here the word “Judah” represents the people of Judah. Worshiping Yahweh is spoken of as if it were seeking him. Alternate translation: “He commanded the people of Judah to worship Yahweh” (See: Metonymy and Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 14:5

Since Asa was king, he may have told his officials to do these things. Alternate translation: “he had his people take away the high places” (See: Metonymy)

There being no war is spoken of as if the kingdom had rest. Alternate translation: “The kingdom had peace under him” (See: Metaphor)

“under his reign.” A king ruling a kingdom is spoken of as if the king is over the kingdom or the kingdom is under the king. Alternate translation: “during his reign” or “while he was king” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 14:6

Since Asa was king, he may have told his officials to do these things. Alternate translation: “He had his workers build fortified cities” (See: Metonymy)

There being no war is spoken of as if the land were quiet. Alternate translation: “there was peace in the land” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 14:7

Here “Judah” refers to the people of Judah. Alternate translation: “Asa said to the people of Judah” (See: Metonymy)

“peace all around.” This means that Judah was at peace with all of the surrounding nations.

The ellipsis may be supplied from the context. Alternate translation: “So they built the cities” (See: Ellipsis)

2 Chronicles 14:8

“three hundred thousand men … two hundred and eighty thousand men” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 14:9

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

“1,000,000 soldiers and 300 chariots” (See: Numbers)

This is the name of a place. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 14:10

This is the name of a place. (See: How to Translate Names)

Here “Asa” represents both the king and the army that he led into battle. It is implicit that he went out to meet him in battle. Alternate translation: “Asa led his army out to meet him in battle” (See: Metonymy and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 14:11

Here “name” represents Yahweh’s authority. Alternate translation: “on your behalf” or “by your authority” (See: Metonymy)

Since the army of Judah is fighting in Yahweh’s name, Asa speaks of Zerah defeating Judah as if Zerah were to defeat Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: “do not let man defeat your people” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 14:12

God enabling the army of Judah to defeat the Cushites is spoken of as if God struck the Cushites. Alternate translation: “God enabled Asa and the army of Judah to defeat the Cushites” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 14:13

This could mean: (1) “So many Cushites died that the army could not recover” or (2) “So many Cushites died that there were none who remained alive.”

Here to “fall” is a euphemism for dying in battle. Alternate translation: “So many Cushites died” (See: Euphemism)

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: “for Yahweh’s army completely destroyed them” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 14:14

The inhabitants of the villages being terrified is spoken of as if terror were an object that came upon them. This could mean: (1) “terror of Yahweh” refers to terror from Yahweh. Alternate translation: “for Yahweh had caused the inhabitants to be terrified” or (2) “terror of Yahweh” refers to being terrified of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “for the inhabitants were terrified of Yahweh” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 15

2 Chronicles 15 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The section about King Asa continues in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

Promise

The people promise to serve the Lord. This is something they will ultimately fail to do. (See: promise, promised)

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Idiom

The phrase “seek Yahweh” means “wanting to believe and obey Yahweh.” This is a common way to describe proper worship of Yahweh. It is possible the meaning of this idiom is about a desire to properly worship. (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 15:1

This is an idiom which means that the spirit of God influenced Azariah and enabled him to prophesy. Alternate translation: “The Spirit of God gave Azariah the ability to prophesy” (See: Idiom)

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 15:2

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you will find him” or “he will permit you to find him” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 15:3

Here “Israel” refers to the people of Israel. This refers to a time when the people of Israel did not worship the true God. Alternate translation: “The people of Israel did not worship the true God” (See: Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “without a priest who taught them”

2 Chronicles 15:4

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they found him” or “he permitted them to find him” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 15:5

This phrase is an idiom that refers to a person who travels anywhere away from home. Alternate translation: “for the person who traveled anywhere” (See: Idiom)

The people experiencing great troubles is spoken of as if those troubles were objects that were on the people. Alternate translation: “all the inhabitants of the lands experienced great troubles” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 15:6

The word “they” refers to the words “nation” and “city.” Conquering one another is spoken of as if they were breaking each other into pieces. Alternate translation: “Nations and cities destroyed each other, nations fighting nations, cities fighting cities” (See: Metaphor)

Here “nation” and “city” are metonyms for the people who live there. You may also supply a connecting word to clarify the relationship between these two phrases. Alternate translation: “Nations and cities destroyed each other, as the people of one nation fought against the people of another nation, and the people of one city fought against the people of another city” (See: Metonymy and Connecting Words and Phrases)

2 Chronicles 15:7

Here the word “hands” represents the people who work. Alternate translation: “do not become weak as you work” (See: Synecdoche)

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. Yahweh is the implied subject. Alternate translation: “for Yahweh will reward your work” (See: Active or Passive and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 15:8

The phrase “the prophecy of Oded the prophet” defines “these words.” Alternate translation: “When Asa heard the words that Oded the prophet spoke” or “When Asa heard the prophecy of Oded the prophet”

Many versions, including the UST, make this passage read, “the prophecy of Azariah, the son of Oded the prophet.” They do this in order to make the sense agree with 2 Chronicles 15:1. Translators will probably want to do the same in their versions.

The words “the disgusting things” refers to idols. Having his people remove or destroy the idols is spoken of as if it were driving them away. Alternate translation: “got rid of the disgusting idols” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 15:9

Here the word “all” is a generalization. The phrase means that David assembled people from all over Judah and Benjamin. Alternate translation: “He gathered together people from all over Judah and Benjamin” (See: Hyperbole)

Alternate translation: “For people from of Ephraim, Manasseh, and Simeon came from Israel”

2 Chronicles 15:10

“They” here refers to the tribes of Judah and Israel that were with Asa.

This is the third month of the Hebrew calendar. It is during the last part of May and the first part of June on Western calendars. (See: Hebrew Months)

(See: Ordinal Numbers)

2 Chronicles 15:11

This refers to the plunder that they had taken from the villages around Gerar in 2 Chronicles 14:14.

“700…7,000” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 15:12

Together, these two phrases form an idiomatic expression that refers to a person’s entire being. Alternate translation: “with all their beings” or “wholeheartedly” (See: Idiom and Doublet)

2 Chronicles 15:13

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: “should die” (See: Active or Passive)

This could mean: (1) a person’s importance within the community is spoken of as if the person were small or great. Alternate translation: “whether the person was important or not” or (2) a young person is spoken of as if he were small and an old person is spoken of as if he were great. Alternate translation: “whether the person was young or old” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 15:15

Here the word “all” is a generalization. The phrase means that people from all over Judah rejoiced. Alternate translation: “People all over Judah rejoiced” (See: Hyperbole)

The idiom “with all their heart” means “with complete devotion.” Alternate translation: “with complete devotion” or “wholeheartedly” (See: Idiom)

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 how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 15:4. Alternate translation: “they found him” or “he permitted them to find him” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 15:16

This phrase refers to an idol.

Since Asa was king, he may have told his officials to cut down the figure. Alternate translation: “Asa made his workers cut down the disgusting figure, grind it … and burn it” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 15:17

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “But Asa did not command the people to take the high places out of Israel” (See: Active or Passive)

The heart represents the person. Alternate translation: “Asa was completely devoted” (See: Synecdoche)

This refers to the whole period of time that Asa lived. Alternate translation: “the whole time that he lived” or “throughout his whole life” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 15:18

Here the word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of God” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 15:19

“year 35” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

2 Chronicles 16

2 Chronicles 16 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The section about King Asa is completed in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

Asa did not trust Yahweh

When Baasha was building Ramah to blockade him, Asa asked the king of Aram to help him instead of trusting God to help him. This was sinful because he disobeyed Yahweh. (See: trust, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness and sin, sinful, sinner, sinning)

2 Chronicles 16:1

“year 36” (See: Numbers)

It is implied that the army of Baasha first captured Ramah. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “captured and fortified Ramah” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Alternate translation: “so that no one could”

2 Chronicles 16:2

Asa would have had his workers gather the gold and silver for him. Alternate translation: “Then Asa told his workers to take the silver … of the king’s house, and to take it” (See: Metonymy)

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

This means he spoke by means of his servants. Asa told his servants what to say to Ben Hadad and they did. The meaning of this can be made clear. Alternate translation: “Asa told his servants to say to Ben Hadad” or “Through his servants, Asa said to Ben Hadad” (See: Metonymy and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 16:3

A covenant being between two people represents those two people having a covenant with each other. Alternate translation: “Let us have a covenant with each other … with my father and your father” or “Let us make a peace treaty … with my father and your father” (See: Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “As proof that I want a treaty with you, I have sent”

Breaking a covenant represents canceling it and not doing what one has promised to do. Alternate translation: “Cancel your covenant with Baasha king of Israel” or “Do not be loyal to Baasha king of Israel as you promised in your covenant with him” (See: Metaphor)

Asa wanted Ben Hadad to attack Israel. Ben Hadad could only do that if he broke his covenant with the king of Israel. The meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “Break your covenant with Baasha, king of Israel, and attack Israel” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

This is an idiom. Here Asa speaks of himself to represent himself along with his army. Alternate translation: “not attack me” (See: Idiom and Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 16:4

Here Asa’s armies are represented by their commanders. Alternate translation: “sent his armies to attack the cities” (See: Synecdoche)

These are the names of cities in Israel. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 16:5

This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

Here Asa represents himself and his army. “his work” refers to other work that his workers were doing in Ramah. Alternate translation: “he commanded his army to stop fortifying Ramah and doing other work there” (See: Synecdoche and Ellipsis)

Alternate translation: “fortifying”

2 Chronicles 16:6

This refers to all the men who live in Judah. Alternate translation: “took all the men of Judah” (See: Metonymy)

Timbers are large pieces of wood used to build houses or walls.

Here “Baasha” refers to his workers. Alternate translation: “Baasha’s workers had been” (See: Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “fortifying … to fortify”

Here “King Asa” represents his workers. Alternate translation: “Then King Asa had his workers use” (See: Metonymy)

This is the name of a city. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 16:7

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

Here the king’s “hand” refers to his control. This means that his army was unable to conquer the king of Aram’s army. Alternate translation: “from you” or “from your control” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 16:8

Hanani uses this rhetorical question to remind Asa of a previous victory. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “The Cushites and the Libyans were a huge army, with very many chariots and horsemen.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

These are people from Libya. (See: How to Translate Names)

This means that king Asa’s army was able to defeat the opposing army. Alternate translation: “he gave your army victory” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 16:9

This speaks of Yahweh seeing everything that happens everywhere as if his eyes were a person that ran all over the earth. Alternate translation: “Yahweh sees what is happening all over the earth” (See: Metaphor and Personification)

This means that Yahweh shows people that he is strong by protecting his people. Alternate translation: “and Yahweh protects with his strength” or “so that he may show his strength by protecting” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

This speaks of a people’s will and desires as their “hearts.” To be “perfect toward” something means to be completely devoted to that person or thing. Alternate translation: “those who are completely committed to following him” or “those who are completely devoted to following him” (See: Metonymy and Idiom)

2 Chronicles 16:11

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “from the first thing that he did to the last thing that he did” or “everything he did” (See: Idiom)

This is a book that no longer exists.

2 Chronicles 16:12

“year 39” (See: Numbers)

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: “Asa had a disease in his feet” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 16:13

The phrase “slept with his ancestors” is a euphemism for dying. Alternate translation: “Asa died during” (See: Euphemism)

“in year 41 of his reign” or “when he reigned almost 41 years” (See: Ordinal Numbers and Numbers)

2 Chronicles 16:14

Asa would have had his workers prepare his tomb for him. Alternate translation: “which his workers had dug out for him” (See: Metonymy)

A bier is a table on which a dead body is placed at a funeral.

Putting plants that smell good with the dead body was one of the burial customs of the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “sweet smelling plants prepared by people skilled in this custom” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that skilled perfumers had prepared” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 17

2 Chronicles 17 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter begins the story of King Jehoshaphat.

Special concepts in this chapter

Trust in Yahweh

Jehoshaphat trusted and obeyed God. Because of this, God made him strong. (See: trust, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness)

2 Chronicles 17:1

Alternate translation: “after his father”

Jehoshaphat prepared the army for battle. Alternate translation: “prepared the army to be able to battle Israel” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 17:2

Alternate translation: “He places soldiers”

military encampments set up to protect the people

2 Chronicles 17:3

Here “was with” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “God supported him” or “God helped him” (See: Idiom)

Here the way a person lives and conducts himself is spoken of as if it were walking. For most of David’s life he lived righteously and followed Yahweh closely. Alternate translation: “lived in the first ways of his father David” or “lived righteously as has father David had done in his earlier years” (See: Idiom and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

This means that he did not worship the Baal idols in order to seek help from them. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

The word “walked” is used here as an idiom. Alternate translation: “followed” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 17:4

“and did not behave in the ways of the people of Israel.” This refers to how most of the people of Israel did not follow Yahweh. Alternate translation: “and did not follow the evil practices that were common in Israel” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 17:5

The phrase “his hand” represents Jehoshaphat’s control. Alternate translation: “Yahweh enabled him to completely control his kingdom” (See: Metonymy)

The word “honor” may be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “was greatly honored” or “the people greatly honored him” (See: Abstract Nouns)

2 Chronicles 17:6

Here the king is represented by his “heart” to emphasize his will and desires. Alternate translation: “He” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 17:7

“year 3” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

These are names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 17:8

These are names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 17:10

The word “terror” can be expressed with the adjective “afraid.” Also, this speaks of the people becoming afraid as if the terror were something that fell upon them. Alternate translation: “The people in all the kingdoms surrounding Judah became very afraid of what Yahweh might do to punish them” (See: Abstract Nouns and Metaphor)

Here Jehoshaphat represents his army. Alternate translation: “against Jehoshaphat’s army” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 17:11

The number can also be written as seven thousand seven hundred. This is a description of the flocks that the Arabians brought Jehoshaphat. (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 17:12

Jehoshaphat did not build these things himself, rather he commanded his workers to build them. Alternate translation: “His workers built fortresses and store cities” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 17:14

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 divisions by the name of their fathers’ houses were as follows” (See: Active or Passive)

The phrase “commander of thousands” is probably an official title for a military officer. This could mean: (1) the word “thousands” represent the exact amount of soldiers that these commanders led. Alternate translation: “the commanders of 1,000 soldiers” or (2) the word translated as “thousands” does not represent an exact number, but is the name of a large military division. Alternate translation: “the commanders of large military divisions” (See: Numbers)

(See: How to Translate Names)

“three hundred thousand” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 17:15

(See: How to Translate Names)

“two hundred and eighty thousand” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 17:16

(See: How to Translate Names)

“two hundred thousand” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 17:17

These are the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

“two hundred thousand men” or “200,000 men” (See: Numbers and Ellipsis)

2 Chronicles 17:18

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

“one hundred and eighty thousand men” or “180,000 men” (See: Numbers and Ellipsis)

2 Chronicles 17:19

Alternate translation: “in addition to”

2 Chronicles 18

2 Chronicles 18 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The story of Jehoshaphat as king continues in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

The will of God is accomplished, even when people try to avoid it. Ahab tried to disguise himself to hide from the soldiers of Aram but an arrow still hit and killed him. (See: will of God)

2 Chronicles 18:1

The word “now” is used here to mark background information. This happened before Ahab went down to Samaria. (See: Background Information)

Alternate translation: “he aligned himself with Ahab” or “he made himself a friend of Ahab”

2 Chronicles 18:2

This means that he had these animals slaughtered to prepare a feast for the people. Also, Ahab himself would not have prepared the animals, but rather would have commanded his workers to do it. Alternate translation: “Ahab commanded his workers to slaughter many sheep and oxen for a feast for Jehoshaphat and the people” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 18:3

Here Ahab is requesting for Jehoshaphat to join him with his army to make war against Ramoth Gilead. This can be written explicitly. Also, in this question each of the kings represents themselves accompanied by their armies. Alternate translation: “Will you and your army go with my army to attack the city of Ramoth in the region of Gilead” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Synecdoche)

Jehoshaphat is stating his allegiance to Ahab. Alternate translation: “I offer myself and my soldiers to you to use in any way you want” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 18:4

This refers to King Ahab.

2 Chronicles 18:5

“400 men” (See: Numbers)

Here about refers to himself accompanied by his army as himself. Alternate translation: “should we not” (See: Synecdoche)

Here the king’s “hand” refers to his control. This means that God will enable them to defeat the people at Ramoth Gilead. Alternate translation: “will enable your army to defeat them” (See: Metonymy and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 18:7

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 18:10

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

This is a reference to the horns of a bull but they made of metal.

The prophet’s actions are a symbolic metaphor that illustrates the way that Ahab would defeat the Arameans. Ahab’s army will win with great strength, as a bull attacks another animal. Alternate translation: “With horns like these, your army will keep attacking the army of Aram like a bull attacks another animal, until you completely destroy them” (See: Symbolic Action and Metaphor)

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 you consume them” (See:Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 18:11

Here the king’s “hand” refers to his control. This means that God will enable them to defeat the people at Ramoth Gilead. Alternate translation: “has allowed the king to capture it” or “will allow your armies to capture it” (See: Metonymy and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 18:12

Translate this man’s name the same as in 2 Chronicles 17:7. (See: How to Translate Names)

Alternate translation: “Listen” or “Pay attention to what I am about to tell you”

The prophets all saying the same thing is spoken of as if they all spoke with the same mouth. The phrase “the words of the prophets” represents the message that the prophets declare. Alternate translation: “the prophets all declare that good things will happen to the king” (See: Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “what you say”

2 Chronicles 18:13

“as surely as Yahweh is alive.” The people use this expression to show that what they say next is certainly true. This is a way of making a solemn promise. Alternate translation: “I solemnly swear” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 18:14

The understood information may be supplied. Alternate translation: “or should we not go” (See: Ellipsis)

The word “we” refers to Ahab, Jehoshaphat, and their armies but not to Micaiah. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)

2 Chronicles 18:15

Ahab asks this question out of frustration to rebuke Micaiah. Alternate translation: “Many times I have required … in the name of Yahweh.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Here the word “name” refers to authority. Alternate translation: “as the representative of Yahweh” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 18:16

Here “all Israel” refers to the army of Israel. Alternate translation: “I saw the entire army of Israel” (See: Metonymy)

The people of the army are compared to sheep that have no one to lead them because their shepherd, the king, has died. (See: Simile)

Yahweh speaks of the king as if he were a shepherd. Just like a shepherd is responsible to care for and protect his sheep, the king is responsible to lead and protect his people. Alternate translation: “These people no longer have a leader” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 18:17

Ahab asks this question to emphasize that he had spoken the truth about Micaiah. Alternate translation: “I told you … but only disaster!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

2 Chronicles 18:18

This means that they were standing beside him on his left side and his right side. Alternate translation: “by his right side and by his left side” (See: Idiom)

This implies his left hand. Alternate translation: “on his left hand” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 18:19

This means to attract someone by offering something appealing.

Ahab dying in battle is spoken of as if he will fall. Alternate translation: “die at Ramoth Gilead” (See: Metaphor and Euphemism)

This indicates that there was more than one opinion. The words “One … and another” refer to two or more angels in the heavenly host who were responding to Yahweh’s question in the previous verse.

2 Chronicles 18:21

Here the word “spirit” refers to the attitudes of the prophets and the words “the mouth” represents what they will say. Alternate translation: “cause all his prophets to speak lies” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 18:22

Alternate translation: “Now pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important: Yahweh”

Here the word “spirit” refers to the attitudes of the prophets and the words “the mouth” represents what they will say. Alternate translation: “has caused your prophets to speak lies” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 18:23

Translate this man’s name the same as in 2 Chronicles 18:10. (See: How to Translate Names)

Zedekiah asks this sarcastic question to insult and rebuke Micaiah. Alternate translation: “Do not think that Yahweh’s Spirit left me to speak to you!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

2 Chronicles 18:24

Alternate translation: “Listen” or “Pay attention to what I am about to tell you”

“you will know the answer to your question.” If Zedekiah’s rhetorical question is translated as a statement, this phrase may be translated to supply implicit information. Alternate translation: “you will know that the Spirit of Yahweh has spoken to me” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 18:25

This refers to Ahab.

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 18:27

This describes something that would not happen. Yahweh had already told Micaiah that the king would not return safely. (See: Hypothetical Situations)

2 Chronicles 18:28

Here the kings represent themselves accompanied by their armies. Alternate translation: “Ahab, the king of Israel, and Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah led their armies up against” (See: Synecdoche)

Alternate translation: “fought against”

Translate the name of this place as you did in 2 Chronicles 18:2 (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 18:29

This means to change the usual appearance so as not to be identified.

2 Chronicles 18:30

By mentioning both “the unimportant” and “the important soldiers,” the king meant all soldiers. Alternate translation: “Do not attack any of the soldiers” (See: Merism)

2 Chronicles 18:31

Jehoshaphat was wrongly identified as the king of Israel because Ahab had insisted that he wear kingly robes.

Alternate translation: “God caused them to stop pursuing him”

This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

2 Chronicles 18:33

This could mean: (1) he took aim to shoot a soldier without knowing that it was Ahab or (2) he drew his bow to shoot without any specific target in mind.

This is a place where two pieces of armor meet and is susceptible to arrows and swords.

2 Chronicles 18:34

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “someone held the king of Israel up in his chariot” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 19

2 Chronicles 19 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The story of Jehoshaphat as king continues in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

Levite judges

Jehoshaphat appointed many Levites to be judges and told them to be very fair. (See: appoint, appointed and judge, judgment)

2 Chronicles 19:2

“Hanani” is the name of a man. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 16:7. (See: How to Translate Names)

Here the word “him” refers to Jehoshaphat.

These questions expect negative answers to make the point that Jehoshaphat should not have helped Ahab. Alternate translation: “You should not help the wicked! You should not love those who hate Yahweh!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

This refers to wicked people in general. Alternate translation: “wicked people” (See: Nominal Adjectives)

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word anger, you could express the same idea with the word “angry.” This phrase can be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “Yahweh is angry with you” (See: Abstract Nouns and Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 19:3

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word good, you could express the same idea with an adjective. This phrase can be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “you have done some good things” (See: Abstract Nouns and Active or Passive)

Since Jehoshaphat was king, he may have told his officials to do these things for him. Alternate translation: “you have had your people take the Asherah poles out of the land” (See: Metonymy)

See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 14:3.

Here the heart represents the will. Jehoshaphat’s will is spoken of as being fixed or immovable, which means having an unchanging intention to seek God. Alternate translation: “firmly decided” (See: Idiom)

Wanting to do what pleases God is spoken of as if Jehoshaphat were seeking him. Alternate translation: “do what pleases God” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 19:4

This is a merism that means the whole land over which Jehoshaphat reigned, from the most southern part to the most northern part, and is intended to include the whole land in between. Alternate translation: “of all the land of Judah” (See: Merism)

The author speaks of Jehoshaphat’s leading the people back to serving Yahweh as if he were carrying them back to where they were at an earlier time. Alternate translation: “convinced them to return to Yahweh” (See: Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “their ancestors” or “their forefathers”

2 Chronicles 19:5

cities with walls around them for protection

Alternate translation: “for every city”

2 Chronicles 19:6

Alternate translation: “Jehoshaphat said to the judges”

This could mean: (1) Yahweh was aware of what the judges decided or (2) Yahweh would hold the judges accountable for their decisions or (3) Yahweh would help and guide them in their decisions. (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 19:7

This can be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “you should remember to fear Yahweh when you judge”

The abstract nouns “iniquity,” “favoritism,” and “bribe” can be translated using the verbs “sin,” “favor,” and “bribe.” Alternate translation: “Yahweh our God will not sin or favor one person over another in judgment or be bribed” (See: Abstract Nouns)

2 Chronicles 19:8

Here “heads” is a metaphor for the most important part, and “houses” represents families. Alternate translation: “leaders of the ancient families” (See: Metaphor and Metonymy)

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word judgment, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “to judge.” Alternate translation: “for judging the people for Yahweh” or “for judging on Yahweh’s behalf” (See: Abstract Nouns)

Alternate translation: “for settling disputes” or “for resolving arguments”

2 Chronicles 19:9

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word reverence, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “You must serve while fearing Yahweh” or “You must serve while respecting Yahweh” (See: Abstract Nouns)

Here “heart” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “with your whole being” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 19:10

The words “you” and “your” in this verse refers to those persons Jehoshaphat appointed to be judges.

Jehoshaphat continues to instruct some of the Levites and the priests, and some of the heads of the ancestral houses of Israel, who he appointed to be judges.

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Whenever your brothers who live in their cities bring you a dispute” (See: Active or Passive)

Here “brothers” is a general reference to fellow Israelites.

Here the killing of people is spoken of as shedding their blood, where “blood” represents their lives. Alternate translation: “the killing of people” or “murder” (See: Metonymy)

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word anger, you could express the same idea with the adjective “angry.” 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 will be angry with you and your brothers” (See: Abstract Nouns and Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 19:11

The words “you” and “your” in this verse refers to those persons Jehoshaphat appointed to be judges.

Jehoshaphat continues to instruct some of the Levites and the priests, and some of the heads of the ancestral houses of Israel, who he appointed to be judges.

Alternate translation: “Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important: Amariah”

These are the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

Alternate translation: “is in charge of you”

Here Jehoshaphat speaks of himself in the third person. This can be translated in the first person. Alternate translation: “of all my royal matters” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

2 Chronicles 20

2 Chronicles 20 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The story of King Jehoshaphat is completed in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

Deliverance and trust

God rescues those who trust him. An enormous army came against Jehoshaphat but God promised that he would defeat them without Judah having to fight. Then the enemy fought among themselves and when the army of Judah arrived there were dead bodies. (See: trust, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness and promise, promised)

2 Chronicles 20:1

This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

This was a people group from the region of Meun which was near Edom, east of the Jordan River. (See: How to Translate Names)

Here “Jehoshaphat” represents himself and his army. Alternate translation: “came against Jehoshaphat’s army to do battle” or “came to fight against Jehoshaphat and his army” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 20:2

The word “see” is used here as an idiom to add emphasis to what is said next. They could not see the army in Hazezon Tamar from where they were speaking. Alternate translation: “They are already in Hazezon Tamar” (See: Idiom)

This is the name of a place. It is another name for Engedi. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 20:3

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “determined himself to seek” or “devoted himself to seek” (See: Idiom)

This speaks of seeking Yahweh’s advice as if he were looking for Yahweh. Alternate translation: “to seek Yahweh’s advice” (See: Metonymy)

The word “fast” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “He proclaimed that all the people should fast” (See: Abstract Nouns)

2 Chronicles 20:4

This refers to the people of Judah. Alternate translation: “The people of Judah gathered” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 20:5

This refers to the people from these places. Alternate translation: “of the people from Judah and Jerusalem” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 20:6

Jehoshaphat uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that God is in heaven and his authority over all things. This question can be written as statement. Alternate translation: “you are indeed God in heaven and the ruler over all the kings of the earth.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

The words “Power” and “might” mean basically the same thing and emphasize the greatness of Yahweh’s power. The word “hand” refers to possession. Alternate translation: “You possess great power” or “You have great power and might” (See: Doublet and Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 20:7

Jehoshaphat uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that God drove their enemies from their land and gave it to the Israelites. This question can be written as statement. Alternate translation: “It was you who drove out those who lived in this land for the sake of your people Israel and who gave it permanently to the descendants of Abraham.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

2 Chronicles 20:8

Here Yahweh is represented by his “name.” Alternate translation: “for you” or “to honor you” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 20:9

The “sword” represents war. Alternate translation: “war” or “battle” (See: Metonymy)

This refers to the temple.

Here Yahweh’s presence is represented by his “name.” Alternate translation: “your presence is here in this house” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 20:10

This was a place where the Edomites lived. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 20:11

Here Jehoshaphat speaks of the ironic situation. Alternate translation: “This is how they ‘repay’ us for the mercy we showed to them; they are coming to drive us out of your land” (See: Irony)

The word “see” here is used as an idiom to emphasize what is said next. (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 20:12

This rhetorical question is used as a request. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “please judge them.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Here the people are represented by their “eyes” to emphasize that they are directing their attention to God. Alternate translation: “we are looking to you for help” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 20:14

This is an idiom which means that the spirit of God influenced Jahaziel and enabled him to prophesy. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 15:1 (See: Idiom)

These are the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 20:15

Here “Judah” refers to the people who live there. Alternate translation: “all you who live in Judah and Jerusalem” (See: Metonymy)

This means that God is in control of the battle and of what happens.

2 Chronicles 20:16

This is an idiom that means to go and meet the enemy army for battle. Alternate translation: “march against” or “go to battle against” (See: Idiom)

Alternate translation: “Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important”

This is a narrow valley between two mountains southeast of Jerusalem. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 20:17

This is an idiom that means to go and meet the enemy army for battle. Alternate translation: “March out against” or “Go to battle against” (See: Idiom)

The word “rescue” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “Yahweh rescue you” (See: Abstract Nouns)

Here these places represent the people from them. Alternate translation: “people of Judah and Jerusalem” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 20:18

These acts of worship that express humility and submission to God. (See: Symbolic Action)

Here “Judah” refers to the people from Judah. Alternate translation: “All the people of Judah” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 20:19

These are the names of people groups descending from Kohath and Korah. (See: How to Translate Names)

This speaks of all the people praising Yahweh as if they together had one voice. Alternate translation: “with very loud voices” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 20:20

Translate the name of this city the same as in 2 Chronicles 11:6. (See: How to Translate Names)

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: “he will support you” or “he will help you” (See: Active or Passive)

Alternate translation: “If you trust in Yahweh’s prophets, then you will succeed”

2 Chronicles 20:21

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word faithfulness, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “faithfully” or “faithful.” See how you translated “covenant faithfulness” in 2 Chronicles 7:3. Alternate translation: “he faithfully loves us forever” or “he is always faithful to his covenant with us” (See: Abstract Nouns)

2 Chronicles 20:22

They were singing to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “to sing and to praise Yahweh” (See: Ellipsis)

This means that Yahweh caused some of the enemy soldiers to ambush other enemy soldiers. Alternate translation: “Yahweh set some enemy soldiers” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

a surprise attack

Translate the name of this place the same as in 2 Chronicles 20:10. (See: How to Translate Names)

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “They defeated them” or “They defeated those they had ambushed” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 20:23

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The second intensifies the first. Alternate translation: “to completely annihilate them” (See: Doublet)

This refers to after they had destroyed them. Alternate translation: “When they had finished killing” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 20:24

The word “behold” is used here to mark a surprising event.

The phrase “fallen to the ground” is an idiomatic way to say that “they were dead.” Alternate translation: “they were all dead on the ground” (See: Idiom and Doublet)

2 Chronicles 20:26

“day 4” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

This is the name of a place. (See: How to Translate Names)

This means the day on which the writer wrote. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 5:9.

2 Chronicles 20:27

This is a reference to every man in the army. Alternate translation: “every soldier of Judah and Jerusalem” (See: Synecdoche)

“with Jehoshaphat leading them.” The phrase “in their lead” is an idiom. King Jehoshaphat was in front of the whole army as they went back to Jerusalem. (See: Idiom)

They rejoiced because their enemies had been defeated. Alternate translation: “rejoice over their enemies’ defeat” or “rejoice because their enemies had been destroyed” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 20:29

The word “terror” can be expressed with the verb “feared.” Alternate translation: “All the kingdoms of the nations greatly feared God”

Alternate translation: “kingdoms in the nearby nations”

2 Chronicles 20:30

This speaks of the kingdom having peace as the kingdom being quiet. Alternate translation: “Jehoshaphat’s kingdom was at peace”

2 Chronicles 20:31

“35 years old…25 years” (See: Numbers)

“Azubah” was the name of Jehoshaphat’s mother. Shilhi was the name of Azubah’s father. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 20:32

This means that he lived in a way that pleased Yahweh as his father had done. Here “walking” is an idiom for the way a person lives and behaves. Alternate translation: “He did things that were pleasing to Yahweh, like his father Asa had done, and he did not stop doing those things” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Idiom)

The eyes here represent seeing, and seeing represents judgment. Yahweh saw and approved of Jehoshaphat’s actions. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 14:2. Alternate translation: “he did what Yahweh judged to be right” or “he did what Yahweh considered to be right” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 20:33

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: “he did not get rid of the high places” (See: Active or Passive)

This means that the people did not desire to obey God and were not devoted to him. Here people’s “hearts” represent their will and their desires. Alternate translation: “The people were still not devoted to the God” or “The people still were not committed to following the God” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 20:34

These two opposites are given to refer to everything concerning Jehoshaphat during his reign as king. Alternate translation: “from the beginning of his reign until he died” (See: Merism)

The word “behold” is used here to add emphasis to the important information that follows. Alternate translation: “anyone can look in the history … Israel and see that they are written there”

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they are in … which is in” (See: Active or Passive)

Translate this man’s name as you did in 2 Chronicles 16:7. (See: How to Translate Names)

This is a historical account that was written by Jehu.

This is a book that no longer exists. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 16:11.

2 Chronicles 20:36

These are ships capable of traveling on large bodies of water.

This is the name of a city. (See: How to Translate Names)

Jehoshaphat and Ahaziah did not build the ships, rather, their workers built them. Alternate translation: “Their workers built the ships” (See: Metonymy)

Translate the name of this place as you did in 2 Chronicles 8:17. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 20:37

These are names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

Translate this man’s name as you did in 2 Chronicles 11:8. (See: How to Translate Names)

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 ships became ruined and” or “The ships wrecked so that” (See: Active or Passive)

Alternate translation: “no one was able to sail them”

2 Chronicles 21

2 Chronicles 21 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Evil

Doing evil causes the country to decline. Jehoshaphat’s son was evil. Edom and Libna successfully revolted against him, the Arabs plundered him and he died of an intestinal disease. (See: evil, wicked, unpleasant)

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Simile

The author compares worship of Baal to being a prostitute: “to act like a prostitute.” Idolatry by the people of God is often pictured as prostitution. (See: Simile and people of God)

2 Chronicles 21:1

Jehoshaphat dying is spoken of as if he had fallen asleep. Alternate translation: “died” (See: Euphemism)

This is the city of Jerusalem. (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 21:2

These are names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

The southern kingdom was technically called “Judah,” but the writer of this book apparently wanted to make the point that the southern kingdom was, in its obedience to God, the true Israel.

2 Chronicles 21:3

Alternate translation: “gifts of large amounts”

The kingdom is spoken of as if it were a physical object that Jehoshaphat gave to Jehoram. Alternate translation: “he made Jehoram king” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 21:4

To “rise up over” something is an idiom that means to control it. Alternate translation: “taken complete control over his father’s kingdom” (See: Idiom)

Jehoram probably did not kill them personally, but had other people do it for him. Alternate translation: “he caused all of his younger brothers to be killed” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 21:6

This is an idiom that means he followed their example. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 20:32. Alternate translation: “followed the example” (See: Idiom)

The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to the descendants of Ahab. Alternate translation: “the descendants of Ahab were doing” (See: Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “he had married a daughter of Ahab”

The sight of Yahweh represents his judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: “as Yahweh judged” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 21:7

The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to the kingdom of Judah. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 10:19. Alternate translation: “the kingdom of Judah” or “the people of Judah” (See: Metonymy)

“he had promised that David’s descendants would always be the ones who ruled Judah.” This was the covenant that Yahweh made with David.

Alternate translation: “always cause him and his descendants to live” or “never destroy him and his descendants”

2 Chronicles 21:8

Alternate translation: “While Jehoram was king”

Alternate translation: “against Judah’s control”

The word “set” is a metonym for choosing, and the words “over themselves” is a metonym for “to rule them.” Alternate translation: “chose a king to rule over them” (See: Reflexive Pronouns)

2 Chronicles 21:9

Alternate translation: “crossed the border into Edom” or “went to Edom”

It may be helpful to reorder this sentence and to add implicit information. Alternate translation: “The Edomites surrounded him and his chariot commanders, but Jehoram and his army fought against them and escaped during the night” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 21:10

This refers to the time when the book of 2 Chronicles was written. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 5:9.

This was a town in Judah. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 21:11

Other people helped Jehoram build these high places all over the mountains of Judah. Alternate translation: “Jehoram and the people had also built high places” (See: Synecdoche)

Jehoram caused the people to serve idols instead of Yahweh. People who serve other gods in order to receive something from them are spoken of as spiritual prostitutes. Alternate translation: “he caused the people of Jerusalem to leave Yahweh and serve other gods, as prostitutes serve men who are not their husbands” (See: Metaphor)

Not following Yahweh is spoken of as not following the correct path. Alternate translation: “he caused Judah to no longer follow Yahweh” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 21:12

Alternate translation: “Jehoram received a letter from the prophet Elijah” or “The prophet Elijah sent a letter to Jehoram”

This is an idiom that means he followed their example. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 20:32. Alternate translation: “followed the example” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 21:13

Jehoram caused the people to serve idols instead of Yahweh. People who serve other gods in order to receive something from them are spoken of as spiritual prostitutes. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 21:11. Alternate translation: “leave Yahweh and serve other gods, as a prostitute serves men who are not her husband” (See: Metaphor)

The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to the descendants of Ahab. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 21:6. Alternate translation: “the descendants of Ahab” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 21:14

This tells Jehoram to pay attention to the message that follows.

Alternate translation: “cause a great plague to happen to”

2 Chronicles 21:15

The use of the reflexive “yourself” emphasizes that this is a personal judgment on Jehoram. (See: Reflexive Pronouns)

This could mean: (1) his intestines will literally fall out or (2) this is a metaphor that describes intestinal problems that will result in his death. Alternate translation: “until this disease causes your death” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 21:16

Stirring the spirit is a metonym for making someone want to act. Here “spirit” is singular and refers to the Philistines as a group and to the Arabians as a group. Alternate translation: “provoked against Jehoram the Philistines and the Arabians” (See: Metonymy)

Here Jehoram refers to Jehoram and the people of Judah that he ruled. Alternate translation: “against Jehoram and the people of Judah” (See: Synecdoche)

The Philistines and the Arabians were two different nations. The Arabians lived southeast of Judah near the Cushites, and the Philistines lived west of Judah. These nations were stirred up separately. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “the spirit of the Philistines and the spirit of the Arabians who were near the Cushites” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 21:17

Alternate translation: “They took away all of his sons except Jehoahaz, his youngest son” or “The only son they left to him was Jehoahaz, his youngest son”

This same son is called “Ahaziah” in 2 Chronicles 22:1.

2 Chronicles 21:18

Here “struck” is an idiom that means Yahweh caused him to be sick. Alternate translation: “Yahweh caused him to suffer from an incurable disease in his intestines” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 21:19

This phrase marks an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

This is an idiom that refers to a set or appointed time. Alternate translation: “in the proper time” or “when the time was right” (See: Idiom)

The custom of the Israelites was to make a bonfire to honor the king who had died. They did not do this for Jehoram to express their contempt for him. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “did not make a bonfire to honor him as they normally did to honor kings when they died” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 21:20

Alternate translation: “no one was sad that he died”

2 Chronicles 22

2 Chronicles 22 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is the beginning of the story of Queen Athaliah.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Metaphor

The author compares Athaliah’s evil deeds to Ahab’s family’s evil lives: “walked in the ways of the house of Ahab.” Ahab is pictured as the epitome of evil. (See: Metaphor and evil, wicked, unpleasant and work, works, deeds)

2 Chronicles 22:1

This is background information about the events of 2 Chronicles 21:16 and 2 Chronicles 21:17. Ahaziah was called “Jehoahaz” in that earlier account. It is possible he changed his name when he became king. (See: Background Information)

Alternate translation: “all Jehoram’s older sons”

2 Chronicles 22:2

“22 years old” (See: Numbers)

This is the name of Ahaziah’s mother. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 22:3

Here “walked in the ways” is an idiom that means he followed Ahab’s example. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 20:32. Alternate translation: “He also followed the example” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 22:4

The sight of Yahweh represents his judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: “as Yahweh judged” (See: Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “descendants of Ahab advised him”

Alternate translation: “and this caused his destruction”

2 Chronicles 22:5

Alternate translation: “He also followed their advice and went” or “He also followed their advice to go”

The reader should understand that Hazael did not fight alone, but that he took his army with him. Alternate translation: “to fight against Hazael, king of Aram, and his army” (See: Synecdoche)

This is a man’s name. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 22:6

Alternate translation: “from the wounds that he received at the battle”

Jezreel was lower in elevation than Jerusalem.

2 Chronicles 22:7

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word destruction, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. 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 caused Ahaziah to die” (See: Abstract Nouns and Active or Passive)

“Joram” and “Jehoram” are two names for the same person.

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 22:8

This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

This refers to killing the descendants of Ahab. Alternate translation: “killing all the descendants of Ahab as God had commanded”

This could mean: (1) Ahaziah’s nephews or (2) the sons of Ahaziah’s relatives .

2 Chronicles 22:9

Alternate translation: “they caught Ahaziah … killed Ahaziah”

They honored him enough to bury his body because he was the descendant of Jehoshaphat, who was a good king. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: they buried his corpse, because they said, “He deserves to be buried, because he was a descendant of Jehoshaphat, who tried hard to please Yahweh.” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Here “house of Ahaziah” is a metonym that refers to Ahaziah’s descendants. Here “power to rule” is a metonym for a king. Since all the adult descendants of Ahaziah were dead, there was no one left to rule Judah. (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 22:10

Here the writer speaks of Athaliah as if she killed the children herself, but the reader should understand that she would have ordered her servants to kill them. Alternate translation: “she commanded her servants to kill all the royal children” (See: Metonymy)

This refers only to the males, because they could become king. Verse 11 confirms that the sons were the ones who were killed. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case, it refers to the kingdom of Judah. Alternate translation: “Judah” or “the kingdom of Judah” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 22:11

Here “the king” refers to Jehoram, the father of Ahaziah. (See: How to Translate Names)

This refers to a person who cares for a child, not to a medical person.

Verse 12 makes it clear that this bedroom was located in the temple. Jehosheba could access that room because she was married to Jehoiada who was a priest.

This is a man’s name. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 22:12

Alternate translation: “Joash was with Jehosheba and Jehoiada”

2 Chronicles 23

2 Chronicles 23 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The chapter ends the story of Queen Athaliah and begins the story of King Joash.

Special concepts in this chapter

Having a king

The high priest organized a coup and made seven-year-old Joash king. Athaliah objected, so the chief priest had her killed. This was an attempt by the priests to fulfill the covenant God made with David. (See: high priest, chief priests and priest, priesthood fulfill, fulfilled, carried out and covenant)

2 Chronicles 23:1

Throughout chapter 23, Joash is referred to as “the king.” It may be helpful to your readers to occasionally add “King Joash” or “Joash the king” to make his identity explicit. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

the chief priest who served in the temple and was faithful to God. He was an advisor to Joash. (See: How to Translate Names)

He decided it was time to challenge Athaliah’s rule and reveal that Joash was alive and ready to be king. Alternate translation: “decided to act”

The phrase “commander of hundreds” is probably an official title for a military officer. This could mean: (1) the word “hundreds” represents the exact amount of soldiers that these commanders led. Alternate translation: “the commanders of 100 soldiers” or (2) the word translated as “hundreds” does not represent an exact number, but is the name of a military division. Alternate translation: “the commanders of military divisions” (See: Numbers)

Alternate translation: “made an agreement”

These five men were the commanders of hundreds of soldiers. (See: How to Translate Names)

These are men’s names. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 23:2

Here “heads” is a metaphor for the most important part. And “houses” represents the families. Alternate translation: “leaders of the founding families of Israel” (See: Metaphor and Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 23:3

Here, “king” refers to Joash’s father. Alternate translation: “Joash, the son of the king”

2 Chronicles 23:4

“One-third” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

Alternate translation: “will be guards at the temple doors”

2 Chronicles 23:5

“Another one-third … the other one-third” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

This gate may have also been called the “Middle Gate” or the “Sur Gate.” It was apparently an inner gate that was near the king’s palace.

This is a generalization that refers to all the people who are present. Alternate translation: “All the other people who are present” (See: Hyperbole)

2 Chronicles 23:6

Alternate translation: “Do not allow anyone to come into the house of Yahweh”

It may be helpful to state that command. Alternate translation: “All the others must remain in the courtyard, obeying what Yahweh has commanded” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 23:7

Alternate translation: “The Levites must surround the king on all sides in order to protect him”

Alternate translation: “all sides, and every temple guard should have his weapons and be ready to fight”

This did not include the temple guards and the priests. This can be stated explicitly and in active form. Alternate translation: “You must kill anyone except the temple guards and the priests who come into the temple” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Active or Passive)

This could mean: (1) “at all times” or (2) “wherever he goes.” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 23:8

This is a generalization to refer to all the people of Judah who were present in the courtyard that day. (See: Hyperbole)

Alternate translation: “did exactly what Jehoiada the priest commanded” or “obeyed everything that Jehoiada the priest commanded”

The priests and guards served in divisions, with each group working for two weeks. This refers to the point in time when two divisions were present—the one ending their service and the one starting their service. Thus there were twice as many men as usual.

Alternate translation: “were finishing their work on that Sabbath day”

2 Chronicles 23:10

This means they were ready to fight. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 23:7.

2 Chronicles 23:11

Here “king” refers to Joash’s father. Alternate translation: “Joash, the son of the king”

This is a symbolic act to show that they are making him king. (See: Symbolic Action)

The symbolic act of giving him a scroll with the decrees shows that they expect him to obey them. It is unclear if these decrees were a portion of the law of Moses, or a separate set of rules for kings to obey. Alternate translation: “presented to him the covenant decrees that he should obey” (See: Symbolic Action)

This was a symbolic act to show that he was chosen by God to be the king. (See: Symbolic Action)

Alternate translation: “May the king live a long life”

2 Chronicles 23:13

This alerts the reader that the following information is very important.

The relationship between the king and this particular pillar at the temple entrance is unclear.

This is a generalization to show that many people participated in the event. Alternate translation: “A very large number of the people of the land” (See: Hyperbole)

This was a symbolic action to show her great distress. (See: Symbolic Action)

Treason is acting to overthrow the government. Athaliah had killed the legitimate heirs of the king and made herself ruler in 2 Chronicles 22:10. She was angry that Joash became king in her place. The exclamation is repeated for emphasis. Alternate translation: “You are committing treason!”

2 Chronicles 23:14

Translate this man’s name as in 2 Chronicles 22:11. (See: How to Translate Names)

The phrase “commander of hundreds” is probably an official title for a military officer. This could mean: (1) the word “hundreds” represents the exact amount of soldiers that these commanders led. Alternate translation: “the commanders of 100 soldiers” or (2) the word translated as “hundreds” does not represent an exact number, but is the name of a military division. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 23:1. Alternate translation: “the commanders of military divisions” (See: Numbers)

Alternate translation: “who were leaders in the army”

This could mean: (1) “Surround her and bring her out of the temple courtyard” or (2) “Remove her from the people in the temple courtyard”

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. It is implied that people who followed her would be trying to help her. Alternate translation: “Use your sword to kill anyone who comes to help her” (See: Active or Passive and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Alternate translation: “For Jehoiada the priest had said”

2 Chronicles 23:15

Some versions have “and took her to the Horse Gate near the entrance of the kings’ house”

Alternate translation: “the royal palace”

2 Chronicles 23:16

2 Chronicles 23:17

This is a generalization that means a large group of the people did this. Alternate translation: “a very large group of the people went to the temple of Baal” (See: Hyperbole)

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 23:18

Here “hand” represents control. Alternate translation: “under the direction of the priests” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 23:19

A person who is not acceptable for God’s purposes is spoken of as if they were physically unclean. Alternate translation: “so that no one that was unacceptable to God in any way should enter” (See: Metaphor)

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “to make sure that only those who are clean could enter” or “to make sure only those who are acceptable to God could enter” (See: Double Negatives)

2 Chronicles 23:20

This is a generalization that means he took very many people with him. Alternate translation: “a very large group of the people of Israel” (See: Hyperbole)

The temple was built on the highest hill in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “He brought the king down from the temple to the palace”

Alternate translation: “the royal throne”

2 Chronicles 23:21

This is generalization to say that most of the people rejoiced. (See: Hyperbole)

Here “the city” represents the people of the city, and “quiet” represents peace, since no one opposed Joash after Athaliah died. Alternate translation: “the people of the city were at peace” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 24

2 Chronicles 24 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The story of King Joash is completed in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

Joash repairs the temple

Joash decided to repair the temple. The Levites collected money from people and gave it to the workmen to repair the temple. This was a sign of worship towards Yahweh. (See: temple, house, house of God and sign, proof, reminder)

Joash becomes evil

When Joash stopped worshiping Yahweh, he had many troubles. Joash remaind loyal to Yahweh as long as the chief priest lived, but when the chief priest died Joash started following other gods. The chief priest’s son warned him that he would have trouble, so he had him killed. The army of Aram defeated and plundered him and his servants murdered him. (See: priest, priesthood and god, false god, goddess, idol, idolater, idolatrous, idolatry)

2 Chronicles 24:1

Alternate translation: “became king of Judah”

“40 years” (See: Numbers)

This is a woman’s name. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 24:2

The word “eyes” here represents seeing, and seeing represents judgment. Yahweh saw and approved of Joash’s actions. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 14:1. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh judged to be right” or “what Yahweh considered to be right” (See: Metaphor)

This idiom means “as long as Jehoiada, the priest, was alive.” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 24:3

Alternate translation: “Jehoiada chose two wives for Joash”

2 Chronicles 24:4

This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

2 Chronicles 24:5

Alternate translation: “immediately”

It may be helpful to add “but” to show that the Levites did not obey. Alternate translation: “But the Levites did not do it immediately”

2 Chronicles 24:6

King Joash asks this rhetorical question to accuse Jehoiada of not doing his duty. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “You have neglected your duty. I told you to require the Levites … covenant decrees, but you have not done it.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Although it refers to the temple that Solomon built, it is a reminder that this tax has been collected since the time of Moses and the “tent of meeting.”

2 Chronicles 24:7

This refers to the items used for worship in the temple.

Alternate translation: “to people to use for the worship of idols of Baal”

2 Chronicles 24:8

a large wooden box

2 Chronicles 24:9

Alternate translation: “they proclaimed” or “they announced”

2 Chronicles 24:10

This is a generalization. Some people probably did not respond this way. (See: Hyperbole)

2 Chronicles 24:11

This phrase introduces a new, recurring action. If your language has a way to note this, you may use it here.

Alternate translation: “take the chest and carry it back to its place”

2 Chronicles 24:12

Alternate translation: “men who built with stone and men who built with wood”

Alternate translation: “men who made things from iron and bronze”

2 Chronicles 24:13

Here the word “forward” represents progress, and the word “hands” represents their control. Alternate translation: “made progress under their supervision” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 24:14

This is money that was collected in the chest but not needed for repairs.

This refers to the “utensils” and “spoons” listed later in the verse.

This idiom refers to the lifespan of Jehoiada. Alternate translation: “for as long as Jehoiada lived” or “throughout the lifetime of Jehoiada” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 24:15

These two phrases mean the same thing and emphasize how long he lived. Alternate translation: “became very old” (See: Doublet)

This idiom means he lived a long time. (See: Idiom)

“one hundred and thirty years old” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 24:16

Alternate translation: “among the tombs of the kings” or “among the graves of the kings”

The nominal adjective “good” can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: “because he had done good things in Judah for God and for God’s temple” (See: Nominal Adjectives)

2 Chronicles 24:17

Alternate translation: “gave honor to King Joash” or “honored the king”

The following verse indicates that they wanted the king to serve idols instead of Yahweh, and he agreed. Alternate translation: “Then they persuaded the king to do what they wanted” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 24:18

God’s anger is spoken of as something that covered over Judah and Jerusalem. Here the words “Judah” and “Jerusalem” are metonyms for the people who lived there. Alternate translation: “God became very angry with the people of Judah and Jerusalem” (See: Metaphor and Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “their sin”

2 Chronicles 24:19

Here the word “yet” indicates a contrast between God’s anger and his sending of the prophets to give them a chance to repent and avoid judgment.

The reflexive pronoun emphasizes that Yahweh was the one to whom they should turn. (See: Reflexive Pronouns)

Alternate translation: “the people refused to obey”

2 Chronicles 24:20

This is an idiom which means that the Spirit of God influenced Zechariah and enabled him to prophesy. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 15:1. (See: Idiom)

This was not the same man as Zechariah son of Berechiah who wrote the Book of Zechariah.

Zechariah asked this rhetorical question to rebuke the people. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “You are transgressing the commandments of Yahweh, so that is why you cannot prosper.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

2 Chronicles 24:22

Joash did not pay attention to the way that Jehoiada, Zechariah’s father, had been kind to Joash.

Alternate translation: “make you pay for the wrong you have done”

2 Chronicles 24:23

This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

Alternate translation: “sent all the plunder from Judah and Jerusalem”

2 Chronicles 24:24

Alternate translation: “victory over the much larger army of Judah”

This refers to God’s judgment. This can be stated as an action. Alternate translation: “In this way God used the Arameans to judge Joash” (See: Abstract Nouns and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 24:25

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they had severely wounded Joash” (See: Active or Passive)

Alternate translation: “because he had murdered the sons of Jehoiada”

Alternate translation: “The servants killed Joash in his bed”

2 Chronicles 24:26

These are the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

“Shimeath, from the country of Ammon … Shimrith, from the country of Moab.” These are the names of two women. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 24:27

Alternate translation: “the record of what his sons did”

Alternate translation: “the important things the prophets spoke about him”

Here “see” alerts the reader to pay special attention to the information that follows.

This is a book which no longer exists.

2 Chronicles 25

2 Chronicles 25 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Worshiping other gods

When Amaziah trusted God he was successful against Edom. But when he started worshiping the idols of Edom he was badly defeated. (See: trust, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness and god, false god, goddess, idol, idolater, idolatrous, idolatry)

2 Chronicles 25:1

“25 years…29 years” (See: Numbers)

This is a woman’s name. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 25:2

Here the word “eyes” represents sight, and sight represents Yahweh’s judgment or evaluation. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 14:2. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh judged to be right” (See: Metaphor)

Here the phrase “whole heart” is an idiom that means “completely.” Alternate translation: “but not completely” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 25:3

This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

2 Chronicles 25:4

This is a reference to the books of Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.

2 Chronicles 25:5

Here “Judah” refers to the people who lived in Judah. Alternate translation: “gathered the people of Judah together” (See: Metonymy)

He had someone write their names on an official list.

Here the word “houses” is a metonym for the families that lived in them. Alternate translation: “by their ancestors’ families” (See: Metonymy)

This could mean: (1) these numbers represent the exact amount of soldiers that these commanders led. Alternate translation: “commanders of 1,000 soldiers and commanders of 100 soldiers” or (2) the words translated as “thousands” and “hundreds” do not represent exact numbers, but are the names of larger and smaller military divisions. Alternate translation: “commanders of large military divisions and commanders of smaller military divisions” See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 1:2. (See: Numbers)

Here “Judah” and “Benjamin” refer to the people who lived in the wider kingdom of Judah. Alternate translation: “all the people of Judah and Benjamin” (See: Metonymy)

Here numbers that were larger than twenty are spoken of as if they were higher. Alternate translation: “20 years old and older” (See: Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “learned that there were”

“three hundred thousand” (See: Numbers)

Alternate translation: “capable soldiers” or “skilled warriors”

2 Chronicles 25:6

“one hundred thousand” (See: Numbers)

“100 talents of silver.” You may convert this to a modern measure. Alternate translation: “about thirty-three hundred kilograms of silver” or “about 3,300 kilograms of silver” (See: Numbers and Biblical Weight)

2 Chronicles 25:7

Alternate translation: “a prophet of God”

These are two names for the same group people.

2 Chronicles 25:8

Here the prophet speaks of military defeat as if the king would be thrown down on the ground. Alternate translation: “enable your enemy to defeat you … defeat” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 25:9

You may convert this to a modern measure. Alternate translation: “about the thirty-three hundred kilograms of silver” or “about the 3,300 kilograms of silver” (See: Biblical Weight and Numbers)

2 Chronicles 25:10

These words refer to “the army of Israel” (verse 9).

Here the increase in their anger is spoken of as if it were a growing fire inside them. Alternate translation: “So their anger began to burn within them like a fire” (See: Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “very angry”

2 Chronicles 25:11

Alternate translation: “became brave”

This is an area near the Dead Sea.

“10,000 men” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 25:12

“another 10,000 soldiers” (See: Numbers)

This is an exaggeration to emphasize the thoroughness of the slaughter. Alternate translation: “so that they were all completely destroyed” (See: Hyperbole)

2 Chronicles 25:13

Alternate translation: “the men of the army of Israel which Amaziah sent back to Israel”

This was a village near Jerusalem in Ephraim. (See: How to Translate Names)

Here “struck down” is an idiom that means they killed them. Alternate translation: “killed” (See: Idiom)

Alternate translation: “3,000 people”

Alternate translation: “took away a great amount of valuable things”

2 Chronicles 25:14

This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

Alternate translation: “slaughtering the Edomites” or “killing the Edomites”

Alternate translation: “the gods that the people of Seir worshiped”

These are symbolic acts of worship. (See: Symbolic Action)

This expresses the popular opinion of the day that the gods determined who won battles.

2 Chronicles 25:15

Here the increase in Yahweh’s anger is spoken of as if it were a growing fire. Alternate translation: “Yahweh’s anger grew like a fire against Amaziah” (See: Metaphor)

The prophet uses this rhetorical question to rebuke Amaziah for worshiping the powerless gods of the people he had defeated. Here the word “hand” is a metonym for power. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “You have worshiped the gods of a people that did not even save their own people from your power, King Amaziah.” (See: Rhetorical Question and Metonymy)

This expresses the popular opinion of the day that the gods determined who won battles.

2 Chronicles 25:16

This phrase is used here to mark the next important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

The king used these rhetorical questions to rebuke the prophet for speaking against him. The questions can be translated as statements. Alternate translation: “We certainly did not appoint you to be one of my advisors. So stop talking! If you say anything more, I will tell my soldiers to kill you!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

This refers back to Amaziah worshiping the gods of the Edomites in 2 Chronicles 25:14.

2 Chronicles 25:17

These are names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

This idiom means they would both be there in person, rather than communicating through messages or other people. Alternate translation: “meet each other in person” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 25:18

This message is in the form of a parable. The worthless thistle represents Amaziah, and the cedar represents Jehoash. The trampling of the thistle by the beast expresses that something bad will happen to the thistle, and it will be powerless to stop it. The point of the parable is that Amaziah was foolish to challenge Jehoash. (See: Parables)

This is a small, worthless plant with small, sharp thorns.

a very large type of tree

Here “Judah” is a metonym for the people who lived in Judah. Alternate translation: “the people of Judah” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 25:19

This is an idiom that means he had become proud. Alternate translation: “you have become proud” (See: Idiom)

Jehoash used this rhetorical question to warn Amaziah not to fight with him. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “you should not cause yourself trouble and fall, both you and Judah with you.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Here “fall” is a euphemism for “die.” (See: Euphemism)

2 Chronicles 25:20

Alternate translation: “God wanted this event to happen”

Here “hand” refers to power to defeat. Alternate translation: “into the power of their enemies” or “so their enemies could defeat them” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 25:21

This idiom means they were both at the battle in person, rather than only sending other people to fight. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 25:17. Alternate translation: “met each other in person” (See: Idiom)

The city of Beth Shemesh was located in Judah.

2 Chronicles 25:22

Here “Judah” and “Israel” are metonyms for the soldiers of Judah and Israel, and “struck down” is an idiom that means “defeated.” 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 soldiers of Israel defeated the soldiers of Judah” (See: Metonymy and Idiom and Active or Passive)

This is a generalization that refers to the soldiers of Judah who survived the battle. Alternate translation: “the surviving soldiers of Judah” (See: Hyperbole)

2 Chronicles 25:23

A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “400 cubits in distance” or “a length of 180 meters” (See: Numbers and Biblical Distance)

2 Chronicles 25:24

Here “Obed Edom” refers to this man’s descendants. Alternate translation: “under the care of the descendants of Obed Edom” (See: Metonymy and How to Translate Names)

Alternate translation: “the royal palace”

2 Chronicles 25:26

This rhetorical question is used to remind the reader that what happened to Amaziah is well-known. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “All of the matters concerning Amaziah, behold, are written in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Here the phrase “first and last” refers to those extremes and everything in between. Alternate translation: “all the matters concerning Amaziah” (See: Merism)

This alerts the reader to pay special attention to the truth of what follows.

This refers to a book that no longer exists.

2 Chronicles 25:27

Here “turn away” is an idiom that means he no longer obeyed Yahweh. Alternate translation: “stopped obeying Yahweh” or “started to disobey Yahweh” (See: Idiom)

The text does not state to whom “they” refers. Retain the generic “they” in your translation if possible.

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word conspiracy, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “conspire against him” or “plot against him” (See: Abstract Nouns)

a city in Judah (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 25:28

The text does not state to whom the word “They” refers. Retain the generic “they” in your translation if possible.

Alternate translation: “brought back his body”

This was another name for Jerusalem, which was also called the city of David.

2 Chronicles 26

2 Chronicles 26 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Uzzah the leper

Uzzah was powerful when he followed Yahweh. When he entered the temple to burn incense like a priest, God made him a leper. Lepers could not properly worship Yahweh because they were always unclean. (See: temple, house, house of God and priest, priesthood and clean, wash)

2 Chronicles 26:1

The word “All” is a generalization. Some people may not have wanted him to be king. Alternate translation: “The people of Judah took the 16 year-old Uzziah and made him king after his father, Amaziah” (See: Hyperbole)

“16” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 26:2

Uzziah did not do this alone. Alternate translation: “It was he who ordered Elath to be rebuilt” or “It was he who supervised the rebuilding of Elath” (See: Synecdoche)

a city in Judah (See: How to Translate Names)

“returned it to Judah.” This means that his army captured the city so that now it belonged to Judah again.

This is a polite way to say he died. (See: Euphemism)

2 Chronicles 26:3

“16…52” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 26:4

The eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 14:2. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh judges to be right” or “what Yahweh considers to be right” (See: Metaphor)

This implies that his father had done what was right in God’s eyes. Alternate translation: “just as his father, Amaziah, had done” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

This is a generalization. Alternate translation: “in the same way” (See: Hyperbole)

2 Chronicles 26:5

Here “set himself” is a metaphor for being determined to do something. Seeking God represents choosing to know, worship, and obey him. Alternate translation: “He was determined to obey God” (See: Metaphor)

Here “the days of Zechariah” is a metonym referring to the time period during which Zechariah was priest. Alternate translation: “when Zechariah was priest” (See: Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “During the whole time that he sought Yahweh”

Seeking Yahweh represents choosing to know, worship, and obey him. Alternate translation: “chose to obey Yahweh” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 26:6

Here “Uzziah” represents himself and his army that he led. Alternate translation: “Uzziah led his army out to fight against the Philistines” or “Uzziah and his army went out and fought against the Philistines” (See: Synecdoche)

Here the pronouns “He” and “him” represent Uzziah and his army. Alternate translation: “Uzziah and his army broke down … they built cities” (See: Synecdoche)

This was a town in northern Judah. (See: How to Translate Names)

Alternate translation: “the country surrounding Ashdod” or “near Ashdod”

2 Chronicles 26:7

Here the pronouns “He” and “him” represent Uzziah and his army. Alternate translation: “God helped them” (See: Synecdoche)

This was a town in Arabia. (See: How to Translate Names)

This is likely people who moved to that area from the kingdom of Maon near Mount Seir. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 26:8

His fame spreading is a metaphor for people in various places learning about him. Alternate translation: “people who lived even as far away as the border of Egypt learned about the things he was doing”

2 Chronicles 26:9

Here “Uzziah” represents the workers he had commanded to build the towers. Alternate translation: “Uzziah had his workers build towers” or “Uzziah’s workers built towers” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 26:10

Uzziah commanded his workers, and they did these things. Alternate translation: “He had his workers build watchtowers … and dig many cisterns” or “They built watchtowers … and dug many cisterns” (See: Metonymy)

The word “he” refers to Uzziah.

2 Chronicles 26:11

These are the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 26:12

Alternate translation: “the family leaders who led the mighty men”

“two thousand six hundred” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 26:13

“three hundred seven thousand five hundred” (See: Numbers)

Here “their hand” represents their authority. Alternate translation: “Under their authority was an army” or “They commanded an army” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 26:14

A helmet is a protective head covering.

This is a covering for the body made of metal links or chains.

2 Chronicles 26:15

Here “he built machines” represents Uzziah commanding his workers to build them. Alternate translation: “his workers built machines that were designed by skillful men” (See: Metonymy)

These were the corners of the city walls where soldiers could fight from.

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 greatly helped him” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 26:16

Here the heart being lifted up represents pride. Alternate translation: “he became proud” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 26:17

The verb “went” is understood from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “with him went eighty priests of Yahweh, who were brave men” or “eighty priests of Yahweh, who were brave men, went with him” (See: Ellipsis)

2 Chronicles 26:18

Alternate translation: “It is not right for you, Uzziah, to burn incense to Yahweh” or “Uzziah, you do not have the right to burn incense to Yahweh”

Here “sons” represents descendants. Alternate translation: “the descendants of Aaron” (See: Metonymy)

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: “whom God has consecrated to burn incense” or “whom God has chosen to burn incense”

2 Chronicles 26:19

This is a special pan or bowl used for burning incense.

2 Chronicles 26:20

The word “behold” here shows that the priests were surprised by what they saw.

Alternate translation: “They quickly forced him out of there” or “They quickly made him leave”

This speaks of Yahweh making him sick as if Yahweh had hit him. Alternate translation: “Yahweh had made him ill” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 26:21

Alternate translation: “until he died” or “the rest of his life”

This indicates that he lived away from other houses and other people.

Here being “cut off” from Yahweh’s house represents being excluded from the temple. Alternate translation: “he was excluded from the house of Yahweh” or “he was not allowed to go to the temple” (See: Metaphor)

Here being over something represents having responsibility or authority for it. Alternate translation: “Jotham, his son, was responsible for the king’s house” or “Jotham, his son, was in charge of the palace” (See: Metaphor)

This refers to the king’s palace, which the king was no longer living in.

2 Chronicles 26:22

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: “As for the other matters concerning Uzziah, from first to last, the prophet Isaiah son of Amoz recorded them” (See: Active or Passive)

This phrase represents the whole time of Uzziah’s reign. Alternate translation: “from the beginning of his reign to the end of his reign” (See: Merism)

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 26:23

This is polite way to say that he died. Alternate translation: “So Uzziah died” (See: Euphemism)

Alternate translation: “the people buried him near his ancestors” or “they buried him where his ancestors were buried”

Alternate translation: “Jotham, his son, became king after Uzziah”

2 Chronicles 27

2 Chronicles 27 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Trust in Yahweh

Jotham was able to conquer the people of Ammon because he obeyed the Lord. For Yahweh, trust in Yahweh is the key to victory in battle. (See: trust, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness)

2 Chronicles 27:1

“25 years old…16 years” (See: Numbers)

This is the name of a woman. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 27:2

The eyes here represent seeing, and seeing represents judgment. Yahweh saw and approved of Jotham’s actions. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 14:2. Alternate translation: “He did what Yahweh judged to be right” or “He did what Yahweh considered to be right” (See: Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “in everything he did”

2 Chronicles 27:3

Since Jotham was king, he may have had his workers build these things. Alternate translation: “He had his workers build the upper gate … he had his workers build many things” (See: Metonymy)

This is a hill in Jerusalem. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 27:4

Since Jotham was king, he may have had his workers build these things. Alternate translation: “he had his workers build cities … he had his workers build castles and towers” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 27:5

You may need to translate so that the reader understands that Jothan led his army to fight. Alternate translation: “He also led his army to fight with the king of the people of Ammon” (See: Synecdoche)

You may need to translate so that the reader understands that the king of Ammon led his army to fight. Alternate translation: “with the king of Ammon and his army” (See: Synecdoche)

You may convert this to a modern measure. A “talent” is equivalent to 33 kilograms. Alternate translation: “100 talents of silver” or “3,300 kilograms of silver” (See: Biblical Weight and Numbers)

You may convert this to a modern measure. The word translated here as “measure” is “cor” and is equivalent to 220 liters. Alternate translation: “10,000 measures of wheat” or “2,200 kiloliters of wheat” (See: Biblical Volume and Numbers)

You may convert this to a modern measure. The word translated here as “measure” is “cor” and is equivalent to 220 liters. Alternate translation: “10,000 measures of barley” or “2,200 kiloliters of barley” (See: Biblical Volume and Numbers)

Alternate translation: “in the second and third years after he defeated them”

2 Chronicles 27:6

Jotham’s actions and lifestyle are spoken of as if they were a path upon which he walked. That he walked firmly means that he was devoted to living in this way. Alternate translation: “he faithfully obeyed Yahweh his God” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 27:7

Jotham’s actions are spoken of as if they were a path upon which he walked. Alternate translation: “the things that he did” (See: Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “anyone can look in the book … Judah and see that they are written there”

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they are in the book” or “you can read of them in the book” (See: Active or Passive)

This is a book that no longer exists.

2 Chronicles 27:8

“25 years old…16 years” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 27:9

Jotham dying is spoken of as if he had fallen asleep. Alternate translation: “Jotham died” (See: Metaphor and Euphemism)

Alternate translation: “people buried him”

The phrase “in his place” is a metaphor meaning “instead of him.” Alternate translation: “became king instead of Jotham” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 28

2 Chronicles 28 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

King Ahaz’s idolatry

Judah was defeated by all of the neighboring countries because King Ahaz was worshiping all sorts of foreign gods. (See: god, false god, goddess, idol, idolater, idolatrous, idolatry)

2 Chronicles 28:1

“20 years old…16 years” (See: Numbers)

The eyes here represent seeing, and seeing represents judgment. Yahweh saw and did not approve of Ahaz’s actions. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 14:2. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh judged to be right” or “what Yahweh considered to be right” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 28:2

Walking represents behavior and actions. Alternate translation: “he acted the same way that the kings of Israel had acted” or “he did the things that the kings of Israel had done” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 28:3

This is a valley in Jerusalem. (See: How to Translate Names)

The people of those nations fled as the people of Israel moved into the land. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “before the people of Israel who moved into the land” or “as the people of Israel moved into the land” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 28:4

These are places where the people of the other nations worshiped their false gods.

God wanted his people to offer sacrifices to him in Jerusalem. The word “every” here is an exaggeration to show how determined King Ahaz was to disobey God by offering sacrifices in many other places instead. Alternate translation: “under many green trees” or “under many green trees around the country” (See: Hyperbole)

2 Chronicles 28:5

Here the metonym “hand” represents power. God enabling the army of the king of Aram to defeat Ahaz and his army is spoken of as if God had put Ahaz in the hand of the king of Aram. Alternate translation: “Yahweh the God of Ahaz enabled the king of Aram to defeat Ahaz” (See: Metonymy and Metaphor)

“carried away from Ahaz.” Here “him” represents Ahaz’s army. Alternate translation: “carried away from Ahaz’s army” (See: Metonymy)

Here the metonym “hand” represents power. God enabling the army of the king of Israel to defeat Ahaz and his army is spoken of as if God had put Ahaz in the hand of the king 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: “Yahweh also enabled the king of Israel to defeat Ahaz” (See: Metonymy and Metaphor and Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 28:6

This was the king of Israel. Both “Pekah” and “Remaliah” are the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

“one hundred twenty thousand soldiers” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 28:7

These are the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

This is an idiom that refers to a mighty warrior. Alternate translation: “a mighty warrior” (See: Idiom)

This idiom means that this man was the king’s assistant who was second in command. Alternate translation: “who was the king’s second in command” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 28:8

“From their own relatives, the army of Israel took captive.” The word “their” refers to the army of Israel. The narrator speaks of the people of Judah as the relatives of the people of Israel.

“two hundred thousand wives, sons, and daughters” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 28:9

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

Here the word “hand” represents power. God enabling the army of Israel to defeat the army of Judah is spoken of as if God had put the army of Judah in the hand of the army of Israel. Alternate translation: “God enabled you to defeat them” (See: Metonymy and Metaphor)

Oded speaks of Yahweh knowing how severely the army of Israel slaughtered the army of Judah as if the rage with which the army of Israel slaughtered them were an object so large that it reached into heaven. That Yahweh knows what they have done implies that he will respond. Alternate translation: “you have slaughtered them in such great rage that Yahweh himself has noticed and will take vengeance” (See: Metaphor and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 28:10

Oded asks this rhetorical question to rebuke the army of Israel and to emphasize the positive answer that the question anticipates. Alternate translation: “But you yourselves are guilty of sins of your own against Yahweh your God.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

2 Chronicles 28:11

Oded speaks of Yahweh being extremely angry with the Israelite army as if Yahweh’s wrath were an object that were upon them. Alternate translation: “Yahweh is extremely angry with you” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 28:12

These are all names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

The phrase “stood up against” is an idiom that means to confront or to oppose. Alternate translation: “confronted those who came back from the war” or “opposed those who came back from the war” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 28:13

The leaders speak of doing something that will cause them to be guilty of sin as if it were sin were an object that the action brings upon them. Alternate translation: “something that will cause us to be guilty of sinning” (See: Metaphor)

This phrase implies that it is Yahweh’s fierce wrath that is against Israel. The words “fierce wrath” can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “Yahweh is extremely angry with the people of Israel” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Abstract Nouns)

2 Chronicles 28:15

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 men whom the leaders assigned by name” (See: Active or Passive)

This is a type of shoe.

Alternate translation: “put the weak ones who were too weak to walk on donkeys”

2 Chronicles 28:18

Taking a city is an idiom that means to conquer or to capture the city. Alternate translation: “The Philistines captured Beth Shemesh” (See: Idiom)

These are the names of places. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 28:19

The metonym “Judah” represents the people of Judah. Yahweh humiliating the people is spoken of as if he physically brought Judah low to the ground. Alternate translation: “Yahweh humiliated the people of Judah because of Ahaz” (See: Metonymy and Metaphor)

Ahaz sinning very much is spoken of as if sin were a very heavy object. Alternate translation: “sinned very greatly against Yahweh” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 28:20

This is Tiglath-Pileser III, also known as Pul. (See: How to Translate Names)

Helping Ahaz against his enemies is spoken of as if it were strengthening Ahaz. Alternate translation: “caused him trouble instead of helping him” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 28:22

Alternate translation: “when he was suffering”

2 Chronicles 28:23

The Syrians believed Damascus to be the city where their gods dwelt, much like Yahweh dwelt in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “the gods whom the Syrians worshiped in Damascus” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

This expresses Ahaz’s opinion. Because the Syrians had defeated him and his army, Ahaz attributed his defeat to the gods whom the Syrians worshiped. Alternate translation: “gods whom he believed had enabled the Syrian army to defeat him” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

The word “ruin” can be translated with a verb. Alternate translation: “those gods ruined him and all Israel” (See: Abstract Nouns)

Here “Israel” represents the southern kingdom of Judah.

2 Chronicles 28:24

Here the word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of God … the temple of Yahweh” (See: Metonymy)

This could mean: (1) the word “corner” refers to street corners, or places where streets intersect. Alternate translation: “on every street corner in Jerusalem” or (2) the various parts of Jerusalem are spoken of as if they were the corners of the city. Alternate translation: “in every part of Jerusalem” (See: Metaphor)

Since Ahaz was king, he may have had his workers make these high places. Alternate translation: “he had his workers make altars for him” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 28:25

Since Ahaz was king, he may have had his workers make these high places. Alternate translation: “he had his workers make high places to burn sacrifices” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 28:26

Ahaz’s actions are spoken of as if they were a path upon which he walked. The phrase “first and last” refers to those extremes and everything in between. Alternate translation: “all that he did from the beginning of his reign to the end of his reign” (See: Metaphor and Merism)

Alternate translation: “anyone can look at the book … Israel and see that they are written there”

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “someone has written them in the book” or “you can read of them in the book” (See: Active or Passive)

This is a book that no longer exists.

2 Chronicles 28:27

Ahaz dying is spoken of as if he had fallen asleep. Alternate translation: “Ahaz died” (See: Metaphor and Euphemism)

Alternate translation: “people buried him”

The phrase “in his place” is a metaphor meaning “instead of him.” Alternate translation: “became king instead of Ahaz” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 29

2 Chronicles 29 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter begins the story of King Hezekiah. (2 Chronicles 29-32)

Special concepts in this chapter

Cleansing the temple

King Hezekiah was a great king. He cleaned and rededicated the temple. This was a sign that he wanted the people to return to worshiping Yahweh. (See: clean, wash and temple, house, house of God and sign, proof, reminder)

2 Chronicles 29:1

“25 years old…29 years” (See: Numbers)

This is a woman’s name. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 29:2

The word “eyes” here represents seeing, and seeing represents judgment. Yahweh saw and approved of Hezekiah’s actions. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 14:1. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh judged to be right” or “what Yahweh considered to be right” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 29:3

This is the first month of the Hebrew calendar. It is during the last part of March and the first part April on Western calendars. (See: Hebrew Months and Ordinal Numbers)

Here the word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of Yahweh” (See: Metonymy)

Since Hezekiah was king, he may have had his workers do these things. Alternate translation: “Hezekiah ordered his workers to open the doors … and to repair them” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 29:4

This refers to the east side of the temple. Alternate translation: “on the east side of the temple” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 29:5

The word “filthiness” refers to things that the people had used to worship other gods. The narrator speaks of these things making the temple unacceptable to Yahweh as if they were physically dirty. Alternate translation: “remove the things that defile the holy place” or “remove the things that make the holy place unacceptable to Yahweh” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 29:6

The word “sight” here represents judgment. Yahweh saw and did not approve of their ancestors’ actions. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh our God judged to be evil” or “what Yahweh our God considered to be evil” (See: Metaphor)

These two phrases share similar meanings. The words “faces” and “backs” represent the people who turned so that their faces were away from the temple and their backs were towards it. Alternate translation: “turned away from the place where Yahweh lives” (See: Parallelism and Synecdoche)

Rejecting Yahweh and no longer worshiping him is spoken of as if the people had turned away from the temple. Alternate translation: “abandoned Yahweh’s temple and stopped worshiping him” (See: Metaphor)

This refers to the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple where Yahweh lives” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 29:8

Here the words “Judah and Jerusalem” refer to the people who live there. Hezekiah speaks of Yahweh being angry with the people and punishing them as if his wrath were an object that fell upon them. Alternate translation: “because Yahweh was angry, he had punished the people of Judah and Jerusalem” (See: Metonymy and Metaphor)

This can be translated with verbal phrases. Alternate translation: “something that terrifies and horrifies people, and something that people scorn” (See: Abstract Nouns)

The phrase “with your own eyes” emphasizes that the people can see this for themselves without others having to tell them about it. Alternate translation: “as you can see for yourselves”

2 Chronicles 29:9

The idiom “fallen by the sword” means to die in battle. The word “sword” represents the soldiers, who used swords as their primary weapons. Alternate translation: “our fathers have died in battle” (See: Idiom and Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 29:10

Here the word “heart” represents the thoughts and intentions. Hezekiah speaks of deciding to do something as if that thing were in his heart. Alternate translation: “it is my intention” or “I have decided” (See: Metonymy and Metaphor)

Hezekiah speaks of Yahweh no longer being angry with them as if Yahweh’s anger were a person who turns away from them Alternate translation: “he may no longer be angry with us” (See: Metaphor and Personification)

2 Chronicles 29:11

This could mean: (1) “to stand in his presence” or (2) this is an idiom that means to serve a person of high rank. Alternate translation: “to serve him” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 29:12

These verses list the names of the Levites who began to do the work that Hezekiah had ordered them to do. These are all men’s names. (See: How to Translate Names)

Here the word “arose” is an idiom that means that the Levites began to act. Alternate translation: “the Levites began to work” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 29:15

This phrase shows that the king gave his command in obedience to the word of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “in obedience to the word of Yahweh” or “because of what Yahweh had said”

A place that is fit to be used for God’s purposes is spoken of as if it were physically clean. (See: Metaphor)

Here the word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of Yahweh” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 29:16

Here the word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of Yahweh … the courtyard of the temple” (See: Metonymy)

The word “filth” refers to things that the people had used to worship other gods. The narrator speaks of these things making the temple unacceptable to Yahweh as if they were physically dirty. Alternate translation: “they brought out all the defiled things that they found in the temple of Yahweh” or “they brought out all the things that they found in the temple of Yahweh that made it unacceptable to Yahweh” (See: Metaphor)

A small body of water that flows on the east side of Jerusalem. At times it was used as a trash dump. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 29:17

This is the first month of the Hebrew calendar. The first day marks the day when Yahweh brought the people out of Egypt. This is near the middle of March on Western calendars. (See: Hebrew Months and Ordinal Numbers)

This is near the end of March on Western calendars. (See: Hebrew Months and Ordinal Numbers)

The phrase “the porch of Yahweh” refers to the porch of the temple. “They reached” means that they began to cleanse this section. Alternate translation: “they had begun to cleanse the porch of Yahweh’s temple” (See: Metonymy and Idiom)

This is near the beginning of April on Western calendars. (See: Hebrew Months and Ordinal Numbers)

2 Chronicles 29:18

This is a reference to the 12 loaves of bread that were placed in front of the altar. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 2:4.

2 Chronicles 29:19

Alternate translation: “Look at them. You can see for yourself that they are”

2 Chronicles 29:20

The word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of Yahweh” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 29:22

Alternate translation: “the priests killed the bulls and took the blood”

2 Chronicles 29:23

Alternate translation: “the king and people in the assembly laid their hands on them”

2 Chronicles 29:24

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 the priests should make a burnt offering and a sin offering for all Israel” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 29:25

The word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of Yahweh” (See: Metonymy)

two thin, round metal plates that are hit together to make a loud sound. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 5:12. (See: Translate Unknowns)

The word “command” can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “arranging the Levites as David, Gad, the king’s seer, and Nathan, the prophet had commanded” (See: Abstract Nouns)

The word “command” can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “for Yahweh had commanded this through his prophets” (See: Abstract Nouns)

2 Chronicles 29:27

The phrase “the song of Yahweh” refers to people singing a song to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “the people began to sing a song to Yahweh also”

2 Chronicles 29:28

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 the priests finished offering the burnt offering” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 29:29

Alternate translation: “When the priests had finished the offerings”

The object of worship may be supplied in translation. Alternate translation: “bowed and worshiped Yahweh” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 29:31

These were offerings of thanksgiving.

The word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of Yahweh” (See: Metonymy)

Here the word “heart” represents the person who was willing. Alternate translation: “who were willing” or “who desired” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 29:32

“70 bulls, 100 rams, and 200 male lambs” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 29:33

“600 oxen and 3,000 sheep” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 29:34

Alternate translation: “to remove the skins from all the burn offerings”

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “until they had finished the work” (See: Active or Passive)

Since there were some priests who were already consecrated, this implies that more priests consecrated themselves. Alternate translation: “until more of the priests could consecrate themselves” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

There were enough Levites to do this work because they had been careful to consecrate themselves. This implies that the reason that there were not enough priests was because the priests were not careful to consecrate themselves.

2 Chronicles 29:35

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 priests performed the burnt offerings with the fat of the fellowship offerings” (See: Active or Passive)

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: “Hezekiah set the service of the house of Yahweh in order” (See: Active or Passive)

The word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of Yahweh” (See: Metonymy)

This idiom means that something is organized. Here it refers to the priestly service beginning in the temple again. Alternate translation: “was restored” or “began again” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 29:36

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 people had done the work quickly” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 30

2 Chronicles 30 General Notes

2 Chronicles 30:1

This represents the nation of Israel in general. Earlier the nation had been split into two kingdoms called by these names.

Ephraim and Manasseh were two of the tribes in the northern part of Israel. Here the phrase “Ephraim and Manasseh” refers to the people who belonged to all ten of the northern tribes of Israel. Alternate translation: “the northern tribes of Israel” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 30:2

The Israelites normally celebrated the passover during the first month of the Hebrew calendar. The first month is during the last part of March and the first part of April on Western calendars.

This is the second month of the Hebrew calendar. It is during the last part of April and the first part of May on Western calendars. (See: Hebrew Months and Ordinal Numbers)

2 Chronicles 30:4

This refers to the proposal to celebrate the Passover in the second month instead of in the first month.

The eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: “in the judgment of the king and all the assembly” or “to the king and all the assembly” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 30:5

These are the most southern and most northern parts of Israel. By referring to them this way, the writer emphasizes that all of Israel was included. Alternate translation: “from Beersheba in the south to Dan in the north” (See: Idiom)

“as it was written that they should do.” It is implied that it was written that they should observe the Passover with large numbers of people. 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: “as Moses had written that they should observe it” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 30:6

people who carry messages

The tribe of Judah was the largest of the tribes of Israel and was in the southern part of Israel. Here the phrase “Israel and Judah” refers to the people who belonged to the southern tribes of Israel. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 30:1. Alternate translation: “the southern tribes of Israel” (See: Hendiadys)

Here “turn back to Yahweh” represents submitting to him again. Alternate translation: “submit again to Yahweh” (See: Metaphor)

Here “turn back to the remnant” represents protecting the remnant again. Alternate translation: “so that he may again protect the remnant of you” (See: Metaphor)

The word “hand” often represents power or authority. Here it represents the kings’ cruel authority to force people to go to other countries. Alternate translation: “who have escaped from the power of the kings of Assyria” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 30:7

This is a continuation of King Hezekiah’s message to the people of Israel.

Here “brothers” represents other people of Israel. Alternate translation: “your people” (See: Metaphor)

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word horror, you could express the same idea with the words “horrified” or “horrible.” The author writes of what God did to their ancestors in terms of how other people would react when the saw what God did. Alternate translation: “he made them something that people would be horrified to see” or “he punished them horribly” (See: Abstract Nouns and Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 30:8

This represents submitting to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “submit to Yahweh” or “dedicate yourselves to Yahweh” (See: Metaphor)

Here “his holy place” refers to God’s temple in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “come to his temple in Jerusalem for it is holy” or “come to his temple in Jerusalem” (See: Metonymy)

The author writes of anger as if it were a person that can turn away from people. God’s anger turning away from them represents him no longer being angry with them. Alternate translation: “so that he will no longer be angry with you” (See: Personification)

2 Chronicles 30:9

Here “turn back to Yahweh” represents submitting to him again. Alternate translation: “if you submit again to Yahweh” (See: Metaphor)

Here “find compassion” is a metaphor for experiencing compassion. Finding it “before those who led them” means those who led them away will show them compassion. Alternate translation: “your brothers and children will experience compassion from those who led them away as prisoners” or “those who led your brothers and children away as prisoners will be kind to them” (See: Metaphor)

Here “turn his face away from you” represents rejecting them and refusing to protect them. Alternate translation: “will not reject you” (See: Metaphor)

Here “return to him” represents submitting to God again. Alternate translation: “if you submit again to him” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 30:10

Ephraim and Manasseh were two of the tribes in the northern part of Israel. Here the phrase “Ephraim and Manasseh” refers to the people who belonged to all ten of the northern tribes of Israel. See how you translated it in 2 Chronicles 30:1. Alternate translation: “the regions of the northern tribes of Israel” (See: Synecdoche)

Zebulun was one of the tribes farthest in the north of Israel, but there were three other tribes that reached farther north.

2 Chronicles 30:12

Here “the hand of God” represents his guidance as if he were guiding them with his hand. Alternate translation: “God guided the people of Judah” (See: Metaphor)

Having “one heart” represents being united and agreeing. Alternate translation: “causing them to agree” (See: Metaphor)

Here “carry out the command” is an idiom meaning to do what was commanded. Alternate translation: “to obey the command” (See: Idiom)

The phrase “by the word of Yahweh” shows that the king and leaders gave their command in obedience to the word of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “the command that the king and leaders gave them in obedience to the word of Yahweh” or “what the king and the leaders commanded because of what Yahweh had said”

2 Chronicles 30:13

This is the second month of the Hebrew calendar. It is during the last part of April and the first part of May on Western calendars. (See: Hebrew Months and Ordinal Numbers)

2 Chronicles 30:14

Here “They rose” means that they started to work at taking away the altars. Alternate translation: “They began to work and took away the altars” or “They took away the altars”

These two phrases refer to altars that people had built to false gods.

This was a small stream of water in the Kidron Valley. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 30:15

This is near the beginning of May on Western calendars. (See: Hebrew Months and Ordinal Numbers)

2 Chronicles 30:16

Alternate translation: “They stood in their appointed places”

This refers to the blood of the lambs that the Levites killed. Here “received from the hand of the Levites” is a metonym for the Levites giving the blood to the priests. Alternate translation: “the blood that they received from the Levites” or “the lambs’ blood that the Levites gave to them” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 30:17

Alternate translation: “the lambs for the Passover”

2 Chronicles 30:18

These are the names of some of the tribes that lived in the northern part of Israel. See how you translated “Zebulun” in 2 Chronicles 30:10. (See: How to Translate Names)

To do something “against” instructions means to do something that is not in obedience to the instructions. If needed, the instructions can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “even though the written instructions said that they must purify themselves first” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

The word “good” here is a reminder to the people that Yahweh is kind. Alternate translation: “Yahweh, who is good” (See: Distinguishing Versus Informing or Reminding)

2 Chronicles 30:19

This continues the sentence that begins with the word “everyone” in verse 18.Here “sets his heart” is a metaphor for being determined to do something, and “to seek God” is a metaphor for knowing, worshiping, and obeying him. “everyone who is determined to obey God” or “everyone who truly wants to honor God” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 30:20

This implies that Yahweh responded favorably to Hezekiah. Alternate translation: “So Yahweh responded favorably to Hezekiah” or “So Yahweh did what Hezekiah asked” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Here “healed the people” is a metaphor for forgiving the people and not punishing them. Alternate translation: “forgave the people” or “did not punish the people” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 30:21

Here “kept the festival” is a idiom meaning to participate in the festival or celebrate the festival. Alternate translation: “celebrate the festival” (See: Idiom)

Alternate translation: “singing and playing loud musical instruments to Yahweh”

2 Chronicles 30:22

This was the reason that he spoke encouragingly to them. Alternate translation: “because they understood the service of Yahweh” or “because they served Yahweh skillfully” (See: Distinguishing Versus Informing or Reminding)

The word “they” refers to the people of Israel.

This could mean: (1) “confession” here refers to saying that God is great. Alternate translation: “praising Yahweh” or (2) “confession” here refers to admitting their sins. Alternate translation: “confessing their sins to Yahweh”

2 Chronicles 30:24

Hezekiah gave the animals to the people as an offering to the Lord for the people to eat.

“1,000 bulls…7,000 sheep…1,000 bulls…10,000 sheep and goats” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 30:25

Here “Judah” probably refers to the southern tribes of Israel.

Here “Israel” probably refers to the northern tribes of Israel. The people are members of those tribes. They came to Jerusalem, which is in Judah. Alternate translation: “all the people who came together from Israel in the north” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Here “the land of Israel” probably refers to the land owned by the northern tribes of Israel. Alternate translation: “the foreigners who came from the land of Israel in the north” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 30:26

Alternate translation: “since the time when Solomon son of David ruled as king of Israel” or “since the Passover Festival that the people held when Solomon son of David was king of Israel”

Alternate translation: “there had not been any Passover Festival in Jerusalem like this Passover Festival”

2 Chronicles 30:27

These two phrases mean the same thing and imply that God responded favorably to their prayer. Alternate translation: “God responded favorably to their prayer, which he heard in heaven, the holy place where he lives” or “God, who lives in the holy heaven, heard their prayer” (See: Parallelism)

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 heard their voice” or “God heard what they said to him” (See: Active or Passive)

Their prayer going up to heaven represents God in heaven paying attention to them praying on earth. (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 31

2 Chronicles 31 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The story of King Hezekiah continues in this chapter.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Idiom

To express Hezekiah’s desire to please God, the author uses two idioms “to seek God” and “with all his heart.” This means that he really wanted to do what God wanted. (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 31:1

Alternate translation: “who were in Jerusalem”

Here “possession” means possessions in general. Alternate translation: “to his own property” or “to his own home” (See: Generic Noun Phrases)

2 Chronicles 31:2

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: “Hezekiah organized the priests and the Levites into groups. He assigned each priest and Levite to their duties” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 31:3

Hezekiah took the meat and grain used for the burnt offerings out of his own possessions.

This was a festival coinciding with the movement of the moon.

This refers to festivals which occur on specific dates.

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: “just as Moses wrote in the law of Yahweh” or “just as Yahweh commanded in his law” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 31:5

This can stated in active form. Alternate translation: “As soon as the people heard the command” (See: Active or Passive)

Alternate translation: “a tenth of all their crops”

2 Chronicles 31:7

This is the third month of the Hebrew calendar. It is at the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the dry season. It is during the last part of May and the first part of June on Western calendars. (See: Hebrew Months and Ordinal Numbers)

This is the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar. This is during the early rain season, which would soften the land for sowing. It is during the last part of September and the first part of October on Western calendars. (See: Hebrew Months and Ordinal Numbers)

2 Chronicles 31:10

Here “house” represents a family or descendants. Alternate translation: “a descendant of Zadok” (See: Metonymy)

The chief priest would have been pointing to the large heaps.

2 Chronicles 31:11

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: “Hezekiah commanded the priests and Levites to prepare storerooms” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 31:12

These are names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 31:13

These are names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

Here “hand” represents power or control. The phrase “under the hand” is an idiom that means to be under someone’s authority. Alternate translation: “were managers whom Konaniah and Shimei his brother supervised” (See: Metonymy and Idiom)

Here “over” is an idiom that means to be in charge of. Alternate translation: “the official in charge of everyone who served in the house of God” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 31:14

These are names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

Alternate translation: “the gatekeeper at the east gate of the temple”

2 Chronicles 31:15

These are names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

Here “under” is an idiom that means to be under someone’s authority. Alternate translation: “Eden … assisted Kore in the cities of the priests” (See: Idiom)

Alternate translation: “Their duty was to give” or “They faithfully gave”

Here “brothers” is a metaphor for “fellow priests.” Alternate translation: “to their fellow priests” (See: Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “group by group”

Here “important” and “unimportant” are used together to mean “everyone.” Alternate translation: “to everyone, including the important and the unimportant” (See: Merism)

This seems to imply the old and the young. This can be restated to removed the nominal adjectives. Alternate translation: “those who are old and those who are young” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Nominal Adjectives)

2 Chronicles 31:16

It is understood that they gave the freewill offerings. Alternate translation: “They also gave freewill offerings” (See: Ellipsis)

Alternate translation: “three years old and older”

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: “whose names were in the records” (See: Active or Passive)

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 do the daily work that they were supposed to do” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 31:17

It is understood they distributed the freewill offerings. Alternate translation: “They distributed freewill offerings” (See: Ellipsis)

“20 years old and older” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 31:19

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: “there were men responsible for giving portions” (See: Active or Passive)

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 all whose names were in the records” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 31:21

Seeking Yahweh represents choosing to know, worship, and obey him. Alternate translation: “to obey his God” (See: Metaphor)

Here the word “heart” refers to a person’s will and desire. Alternate translation: “he performed it with all his will” or “he was completely committed to what he did” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 32

2 Chronicles 32 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The story of King Hezekiah is completed in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

Trust in Yahweh

Because Hezekiah trusted God, God rescued Jerusalem from the attacked of the Assyrian army and healed Hezekiah when he was very sick. (See: trust, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness)

2 Chronicles 32:1

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word faithfulness, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “faithfully.” Alternate translation: “After Hezekiah faithfully did all the things Yahweh commanded him to do” (See: Abstract Nouns)

Here Sennacherib represents his army. Alternate translation: “Sennacherib, king of Assyria, and his army came … They camped” (See: Synecdoche)

Here “came” can be stated as “went.” Alternate translation: “went and entered Judah” (See: Go and Come)

2 Chronicles 32:2

Here Sennacherib also represents his army. Alternate translation: “that Sennacherib and his army had come and that they intended” (See: Synecdoche)

Here “Jerusalem” represents the people there. Alternate translation: “to fight against the people of Jerusalem” or “to fight against the army of Jerusalem” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 32:3

The people of the city would fill up wells and fountain springs with earth and rocks, hiding the water from the Assyrians, but the people would cause the water to flow into the city through secret pathways.

2 Chronicles 32:4

The people use a rhetorical question to emphasize that they do not want the kings of Assyria to find their water. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “We do not want the kings of Assyria to come here and find a lot of water.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Here, the word kings could mean: (1) this is an idiom that refers to the one king of Assyria. Alternate translation: “the king of Assyria” or (2) this may refer to the king and his other leaders. Alternate translation: “the king and the other leaders of Assyria” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 32:5

The readers should understand that Hezekiah probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Hezekiah took courage and commanded the people to build up … They built … They also … they made” (See: Synecdoche)

This could mean: (1) Hezekiah strengthened his position by commanding the people to repair the walls of the city. You can make this clear by using the connecting word “by.” Alternate translation: “Hezekiah strengthened the city by building up” or (2) he became encouraged. Alternate translation: “Hezekiah became encouraged and built up” (See: Connecting Words and Phrases)

This is a part of the wall on the north side of Jerusalem.

2 Chronicles 32:6

The idiom “place over” means to put in charge of. “He put military commanders in charge of the people” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 32:7

Alternate translation: “for our God is with us and is more powerful than those with the king of Assyria”

2 Chronicles 32:8

Here “arm” represents strength, and “flesh” represents humanity. Alternate translation: “are only those with human power” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 32:9

The word “now” is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here the narrator tells background information about the location of Sennacherib and his army. (See: Background Information)

This was a city in Judah. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 32:10

Sennacherib uses a rhetorical question to cause the people to think about their situation. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “You are not able to endure a siege in Jerusalem.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

2 Chronicles 32:11

Sennacherib uses a rhetorical question to cause the people of Jerusalem to think about their situation. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “Hezekiah is misleading you … king of Assyria.’” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Alternate translation: “so that you will die from lack of food and water”

Here “hand” represents power or control. Alternate translation: “from the power of the king of Assyria” or “from the king of Assyria” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 32:12

Sennacherib uses a rhetorical question to cause the people of Jerusalem to think about their situation. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “This is the same Hezekiah who has taken away … sacrifices.’” or “Hezekiah has taken away … sacrifices.’”

Here “Judah” and “Jerusalem” represent the people who live there. Alternate translation: “commanded the people of Judah and Jerusalem” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 32:13

Sennacherib uses a rhetorical question to cause the people of Jerusalem to think about their situation. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “You know very well what … lands!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Sennacherib uses a rhetorical question to cause the people of Jerusalem to think about their situation. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “There was no god … power!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

2 Chronicles 32:14

Sennacherib uses a rhetorical question to cause the people of Jerusalem to think about their situation. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “There was no god among all the gods … who … hand!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Here “hand” represents power or control. Alternate translation: “from my power” or “from me” (See: Metonymy)

Sennacherib uses a rhetorical question to cause the people of Jerusalem to think about their situation. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “There is no reason your God should be able … power!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

2 Chronicles 32:15

Here the word “now” is used to draw attention to the important point that follows.

Sennacherib uses a rhetorical question to cause the people of Jerusalem to think about their situation. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “Your God will certainly not be able to rescue you from my hand!” (See: Rhetorical Question)

2 Chronicles 32:17

Here “hand” represents power or control. Alternate translation: “from my power” or “from me” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 32:18

Alternate translation: “Sennacherib’s servants shouted loudly”

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize the intensity of fear. Alternate translation: “to make them very afraid” (See: Doublet)

Alternate translation: “the Assyrian army might capture”

2 Chronicles 32:19

Alternate translation: “They mocked the God of Jerusalem as they had mocked the gods of the other peoples of the earth”

This emphasizes that humans made these idols with their own hands and are therefore worthless. Alternate translation: “which are merely idols that men have made” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 32:20

Here “heaven” represents Yahweh. Alternate translation: “cried to Yahweh for help” or “pleaded to Yahweh” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 32:21

Alternate translation: “embarrassed” or “ashamed”

Alternate translation: “the temple of his god”

2 Chronicles 32:22

Here “hand” represents power or control. Alternate translation: “from the power of Sennacherib … from the power of all others” or “from Sennacherib … from all others” (See: Metonymy)

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word rest, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “peacefully.” Alternate translation: “caused them to live peacefully with all the people of the nations around them” (See: Abstract Nouns)

2 Chronicles 32:23

Here “lifted up” is an idiom that means to honor. Also, “in the eyes” is a metaphor that represents judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: “the people of all the nations honored him” (See: Idiom and Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 32:24

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 he would heal Hezekiah” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 32:25

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “But Hezekiah did not act in a grateful way after Yahweh helped him” (See: Active or Passive)

Here “heart” is a metonym that represents a person’s inner being. Here “heart was lifted up” is an idiom that means to become proud. Alternate translation: “he became proud” (See: Metonymy and Idiom)

Yahweh becoming angry and punishing the people is spoken of as if “anger came on” them. “Judah” and “Jerusalem” are metonyms that represent the people who live there. Alternate translation: “So Yahweh became angry and punished him and the people of Judah and Jerusalem” (See: Metaphor and Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 32:26

Alternate translation: “during Hezekiah’s lifetime” or “during Hezekiah’s reign as king”

2 Chronicles 32:28

This is a small enclosure where horses are kept. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 9:25

a storage place for small animals

2 Chronicles 32:30

The readers should understand that Hezekiah probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “Hezekiah who ordered his workers to stop up … and to build a tunnel so that the water would flow down” (See: Metonymy)

This is the name of a stream near Jerusalem. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 32:31

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 miracle that Yahweh had performed in the land” (See: Active or Passive)

Here “heart” represents a person’s inner being. Alternate translation: “to reveal Hezekiah’s true character” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 32:33

This was a polite way to tell about him dying. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 9:31. Alternate translation: “Hezekiah died” (See: Euphemism)

2 Chronicles 33

2 Chronicles 33 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

King Manasseh

Manasseh angered God more than any other king of Judah. He worshiped the sun, stars and many foreign gods and even sacrificed his sons to the sun. (See: god, false god, goddess, idol, idolater, idolatrous, idolatry)

2 Chronicles 33:2

Here Yahweh’s “sight” refers to how he judges or decides on the value of something. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 14:2. Alternate translation: “things that Yahweh said were evil” or “the things that Yahweh considers evil” (See: Metaphor)

Another possible meaning is “including the disgusting things.”

2 Chronicles 33:3

Manasseh would have commanded his workers to do the building for him. Alternate translation: “he had the high places rebuilt … he had altars built … he had Asherah poles made” or “he had his workers rebuild the high places … he had them build altars … he had them make Asherah poles” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 33:4

The name is a metonym for the person. Alternate translation: “Jerusalem is where I will forever make known who I am” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 33:5

It is implied that he built these altars so people could make sacrifices and worship the stars. Also, he would not have built these altars himself, rather he would have commanded his workers to do it. Alternate translation: “He had his workers build altars in the two courtyards of the house of Yahweh so that the people could worship the stars and offer them sacrifices” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 33:6

This is the name of a place near Jerusalem that is also known as Gehenna. (See: How to Translate Names)

You may need to make explicit why he put his son in the fire and what happened after he did so. Alternate translation: “he burned his sons to death as an offering to his gods” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Alternate translation: “asked for information from”

This refers to dead people. Alternate translation: “dead people” or “those who are dead” (See: Nominal Adjectives)

Here Yahweh’s “sight” refers to how he judges or decides on the value of something. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 14:2. Alternate translation: “Manasseh did many things that Yahweh said were evil” or “He practiced the things that Yahweh considered evil” (See: Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “Manasseh made Yahweh very angry”

2 Chronicles 33:7

Manasseh probably did not do the work. His servants would have done the work. Alternate translation: “Manasseh had ordered his servants to make” (See: Metonymy)

Here God is represented by his “name.” Alternate translation: “where I want people to worship me forever” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 33:8

Alternate translation: “that I gave to their ancestors”

2 Chronicles 33:9

Here “Jerusalem” is a part of “Judah.” Alternate translation: “the people of Judah and Jerusalem” (See: Synecdoche)

Here “nations” refers to the people who had lived in the land of Canaan before the Israelites had arrived. Alternate translation: “even more than the people whom Yahweh had destroyed as the people of Israel advanced through the land” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 33:11

Yahweh sent the army to attack Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “brought about an attack on them by” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

The commanders were accompanied by their soldiers. Alternate translation: “the commanders of the army of the king of Assyria and their soldiers” (See: Synecdoche)

Here Manasseh being taken as a prisoner is represented by him being bound by chains and fetters. Fetters were chains placed around the feet. Alternate translation: “seized Manasseh, bound him in chains, and took him as a prisoner to Babylon” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 33:12

to beg for help

2 Chronicles 33:13

The second phrase intensifies the first phrase and emphasizes the earnestness of Manasseh’s prayer. 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: “He prayed to God and begged him” (See: Doublet and Active or Passive)

Alternate translation: “to rule again as king”

2 Chronicles 33:14

See: How to Translate Names

Manasseh did not do the building and construction himself, rather, he commanded his workers to do it. Alternate translation: “Manasseh commanded his workers to build … They surrounded … and raised … He commanded his workers to put” (See: Metonymy)

This was the name of a spring and a stream. See how you translated the “waters of Gihon” in 2 Chronicles 32:30. Alternate translation: “the waters of Gihon” (See: How to Translate Names)

Translate the name of this hill as you did in 2 Chronicles 27:3. (See: How to Translate Names)

Alternate translation: “built the wall up”

This refers to cities with walls around them.

2 Chronicles 33:15

Manasseh did not do the building and construction himself; rather, he commanded his workers to do it. Alternate translation: “Manasseh commanded his workers to take away … they had previously built … and to throw” (See: Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “the false gods from other countries”

2 Chronicles 33:16

Manasseh did not do the building and construction himself, rather, he commanded his workers to do it. Alternate translation: “He commanded them to rebuild” (See: Metonymy)

Here “Judah” refers to the people who live there. Alternate translation: “he commanded the people of Judah” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 33:18

Alternate translation: “anyone can look among the deeds … Israel and see that they are written there”

These phrases can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “men have written them” (See: Active or Passive)

This in account of the history of Israel that no longer exists.

2 Chronicles 33:19

Manasseh did not do the building and construction himself, rather, he commanded his workers to do it. Alternate translation: “the place where he had the high places built and the Asherah poles and the carved figures set up” or “the places where he commanded his workers to build the high places and to set up the Asherah poles and carved figures” (See: Metonymy)

This is a book that no longer exists.

These phrases can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “men have written about them” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 33:20

This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: “So Manasseh died” (See: Euphemism)

Alternate translation: “in his palace”

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “became the next king” or “became the king of Judah” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 33:21

“22 years old” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 33:22

2 Chronicles 33:23

Alternate translation: “Amon sinned again and again” or “Amon continued to sin”

2 Chronicles 33:24

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “killed him” (See: Idiom)

Alternate translation: “planned in secret to kill him”

2 Chronicles 33:25

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “became the next king” or “became the king of Judah” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 34

2 Chronicles 34 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is the beginning of the story of King Josiah. (2 Chronicles 34-35)

Special concepts in this chapter

Returning the people to Yahweh

Josiah worshiped Yahweh and cleaned out the idols and shrines from Judah. The people returned to worship Yahweh again. (See: clean, wash)

2 Chronicles 34:1

“31 years” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 34:2

Here Yahweh’s “sight” refers to how he judges or decides on the value of something. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Chronicles 14:2. Alternate translation: “the things that Yahweh said were right” or “the things that Yahweh considers right” (See: Metaphor)

Josiah behaving as David did is spoken of as if he walked on the same road or way as David. Alternate translation: “lived the way David his ancestor had lived” or “followed the example of David his ancestor” (See: Metaphor)

To fully obey Yahweh is spoken of as if a person were on the correct road and never turned from it. Alternate translation: “did not do anything that would displease Yahweh” or “fully obeyed the laws of Yahweh” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 34:3

“year 8…year 12.” See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 14:2. (See: Ordinal Numbers)

This speaks of Josiah getting rid of the things that were used for worshiping false gods from Judah and Jerusalem as if he were making the places physically clean. Josiah would have commanded his workers to remove these things. Alternate translation: “he began to make Judah and Jerusalem acceptable again to Yahweh by having his workers remove from them the high places, the Asherah poles, the craved figures, and the cast metal figures” (See: Metaphor and Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 34:4

Alternate translation: “in Josiah’s presence”

Josiah probably commanded his workers to do much or all of this work. Alternate translation: “he had them cut apart … He commanded them to break … He had them scatter” or “he and his workers cut apart … He and his workers broke … He and his workers scattered” (See: Metonymy and Synecdoche)

very small pieces that could be carried away by the wind

2 Chronicles 34:5

Josiah probably commanded his workers to do much or all of this work. Alternate translation: “He commanded them to burn” or “He and his workers burned” (See: Metonymy and Synecdoche)

This means that the bones of the priests who offered sacrifices on the altars to the false gods were burned on the altars that the priests had previously made sacrifices on.

This speaks of Josiah causing Judah and Jerusalem to be acceptable to Yahweh as if he made them physically clean. Alternate translation: “he caused Judah and Jerusalem to be acceptable again to Yahweh” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 34:7

Josiah would have commanded his workers to do these things. Alternate translation: “He commanded his workers to break down the altars, to beat … to cut apart” (See: Metonymy)

“into dust.” This means to smash them until they have become powder.

2 Chronicles 34:8

“year 18” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

This speaks of Josiah causing Judah and Jerusalem to be acceptable to Yahweh as if he made them physically clean. Alternate translation: “Josiah had caused the land and the temple to become acceptable again to Yahweh” (See: Metaphor)

These are the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 34:9

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

Alternate translation: “gave to him the responsibility of using the money”

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 the Levites who guarded the doors had brought into the house of God all that they had gathered” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 34:10

The word “they” refers to the men that Josiah had sent to Hilkiah the high priest. They first gave the money to him and then he distributed it to the men who supervised the building. Alternate translation: “Then Hilkiah entrusted” (See: Metonymy)

This refers to some on the money that was entrusted to Hilkiah. Alternate translation: “some of the money” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 34:11

workers who build with wood

pieces used to connect large beams

Alternate translation: “had allowed to rot”

2 Chronicles 34:12

These are the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

Translate this man’s name as you did in 2 Chronicles 29:12. (See: How to Translate Names)

Translate the name of the clan as you did in 2 Chronicles 20:19. (See: How to Translate Names)

Translate these men’s names the same as you did for other men by the same names in 2 Chronicles 17:7. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 34:13

This means that they were in charge of all the men who did any type of building work. Alternate translation: “These Levites were in charge of all of the men who did any kind of building work” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 34:14

See: How to Translate Names

The word “they” refers to Hilkiah and whoever was helping him. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “When they brought out the money for the supervisors from” (See: Active or Passive)

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 Yahweh had given to the people through Moses” (See: Active or Passive)

Most likely these laws were written on a scroll. A scroll was a type of book made of one long, rolled-up sheet of papyrus or leather.

2 Chronicles 34:15

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 34:16

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: “everything that you entrusted to them to do” or “everything that you gave them the responsibility to do” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 34:17

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “They have gathered all” (See: Idiom)

The supervisors and workmen are represented by their “hand” to emphasize their possession. Alternate translation: “to the supervisors and the workmen” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 34:19

This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

This is a symbolic action that indicates intense grief or sadness. Alternate translation: “he tore his clothes because he was very upset” (See: Symbolic Action)

2 Chronicles 34:20

These are the names of men. (See:How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 34:21

The word “will” can be translated as a verb. Also, it is made clear in 2 Chronicles 34:22 that the king means for the men to go to the prophetess of Yahweh to determine Yahweh’s will. Alternate translation: “Ask Yahweh what he wants me to do” (See: Abstract Nouns)

Alternate translation: “concerning the words”

Here “words” represents the laws. 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 laws in the book that Hilkiah has found” (See: Metonymy and Active or Passive)

Emotions such as anger are often spoken of in Scripture as if they were liquids. Alternate translation: “For Yahweh’s anger towards us is great, like water that could totally wash us away” or “For great is Yahweh’s anger with which he has punished us” (See: Metaphor)

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “all that is written in it” or “all that is in this book” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 34:22

This is the name of a woman. (See: How to Translate Names)

These are the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

This refers to Shallum. This could mean: (1) the person who took care of the clothing that priests wore in the temple or (2) the person who took care of the king’s clothing.

This was a cerain part of Jerusalem. It may have been a newer part. Alternate translation: “The Second Part” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

Alternate translation: “they had the following conversation with her”

2 Chronicles 34:23

Here “the man” refers to King Josiah.

2 Chronicles 34:24

The word is used here as an idiom to draw the listener’s attention to what is said next. Alternate translation: “Listen” (See: Idiom)

Yahweh causing terrible things to happen is spoken of as if disaster were an object that he could bring to a place. Alternate translation: “I will soon cause terrible things to happen to this place and to those who live there” (See: Metaphor)

“to Jerusalem” This refers to the city of Jerusalem which represents the whole land of Judah. Alternate translation: “on Judah” (See: Synecdoche)

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “all the curses written” or “all the curses” (See: Active or Passive)

Here “this place” refers to the people who live there. Alternate translation: “on these people” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 34:25

Alternate translation: “they have made me angry”

Emotions such as anger are often spoken of in Scripture as if they were liquids. Alternate translation: “therefore, my anger against this place is like a fire, and nothing will stop it” (See: Metaphor)

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I will pour out my anger” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 34:26

Alternate translation: “About the message that you heard”

2 Chronicles 34:27

Here “heart” represents a person’s inner being. Feeling sorry is spoken of as if the heart were tender. Alternate translation: “because you felt sorry” or “because you repented” (See: Metonymy and Metaphor)

This is a symbolic action that indicates intense grief or sadness. (See: Symbolic Action)

2 Chronicles 34:28

Both statements mean basically the same thing. They are polite ways of saying he will die. Alternate translation: “so I will allow you to die and be buried peacefully” (See: Parallelism and Euphemism)

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I will gather you to your grave” (See: Active or Passive)

Here “eyes” represents the whole person. Also, the phrase “will not see” represents not experiencing something. Alternate translation: “you will not experience” (See: Synecdoche and Metonymy)

Yahweh causing terrible things to happen is spoken of as if disaster were an object that Yahweh would bring to a place. Alternate translation: “the terrible things I will cause to happen to this place” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 34:30

This is a generalization. Alternate translation: “many other people” (See: Hyperbole)

This merism includes everyone in between. Alternate translation: “from the most important to the least important” (See: Merism)

Alternate translation: “Then the king read aloud so that they could hear”

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “that Hilkiah had found” or “that they had found” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 34:31

This refers to the place where the king stood at the temple. Alternate translation: “stood where he was supposed to stand at the entrance to the temple” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

The way a person lives is spoken of as if that person were walking on a path, and “to walk after” someone is a metonym for doing what that other person does or wants others to do. Alternate translation: “live obeying Yahweh” (See: Metaphor and Metonymy)

These words all share similar meanings. Together they emphasize everything that Yahweh had commanded in the law. (See: Doublet)

The idiom “with all his heart” means “completely” and “with all his soul” means “with all his being.” These two phrases have similar meanings. Alternate translation: “with all his being” or “with all his energy” (See: Idiom and Doublet)

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “that this book contained” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 34:32

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “all who lived in Jerusalem and Benjamin” (See: Active or Passive)

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “accept the terms of the covenant” or “promise to obey the covenant” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 34:33

Josiah would have commanded his workers to do this. Alternate translation: “Josiah commanded his workers to take away all” (See: Metonymy)

These are the idols that were repulsive to God. Alternate translation: “the disgusting idols” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Josiah’s life is represented by his “days.” Alternate translation: “For all of his life” or “As long as Josiah was alive” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 35

2 Chronicles 35 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This is the end of the story of King Josiah.

Special concepts in this chapter

Passover

Josiah organized a large Passover celebration and people shared their animals with those without animals to sacrifice. The celebration of Passover was a sign of proper worship by the people. (See: Passover and sign, proof, reminder)

2 Chronicles 35:1

Josiah commanded the people to celebrate the Passover that Yahweh had commanded their ancestors to celebrate.

Yahweh had commanded Moses that all the people of Israel were to go to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover.

This is the first month of the Hebrew calendar. The fourteenth day is near the beginning of April on Western calendars. (See: Hebrew Months and Ordinal Numbers)

2 Chronicles 35:2

Placing the priests in a position is a metaphor for telling the priests which jobs they are to do. The reader should probably understand that Josiah commanded his officials to give instructions to the priests. Alternate translation: “He had people tell the priests which jobs to do” (See: Metaphor and Metonymy)

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word service, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “as they served in” or “to serve well in” (See: Abstract Nouns)

2 Chronicles 35:3

The readers should understand that Solomon probably commanded other people to do the actual work. Alternate translation: “that Solomon, king of Israel, commanded the people to build” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Chronicles 35:4

The word “name” is a collective noun, referring to each name of each ancestral house and each division. Your language may need to say “according to the names of your ancestral houses and your divisions.”

The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. Alternate translation: “the families that are descendants of your ancestors” (See: Metonymy)

groups into which the people had divided the priests and Levites

Alternate translation: “the instructions that David … and Solomon, his son, wrote”

2 Chronicles 35:5

Alternate translation: “Take your positions in the temple area”

This refers to the work group to which the people had assigned each Levite. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 35:4.

This refers to the various clans among the Levites. It seems that Levites were assigned to different work groups on the basis of the kind of work assigned to each clan or ancestral house. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 35:4.

2 Chronicles 35:6

This probably refers to the priests and Levites washing themselves before they did work in the temple.

Here the word “hand” refers to Moses himself. Yahweh used Moses as the agent to deliver his command. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “to obey all of the commands that Yahweh gave to the people through Moses” or “to do everything that Yahweh commanded Moses to tell the people” (See: Synecdoche and Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 35:7

See: Numbers and How to Translate Names

“30,000 lambs” (See: Numbers)

baby goats

“3,000 bulls” (See: Numbers)

Alternate translation: “all these lambs, kids, and bulls that he gave were ones that he himself owned”

2 Chronicles 35:8

“two thousand six hundred small cattle” (See: Numbers)

“300 oxen” (See: Numbers)

These are all the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 35:9

These are all the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

“5,000 small cattle” (See: Numbers)

“500 oxen” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 35:10

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “they prepared everything they needed so they could perform the Passover” (See: Active or Passive)

the groups into which the people had divided the priests and Levites. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 35:4.

2 Chronicles 35:11

Here the word “hand” refers to the Levites. Alternate translation: “the blood that the Levites gave them” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 35:12

The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. Alternate translation: “the families that were the descendants of their ancestors” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 35:13

All instances of “they” and “themselves” refer to the Levites (2 Chronicles 35:10).

Alternate translation: “They cooked the Passover lambs over fires”

Alternate translation: “they cooked them in water in containers of different sizes”

2 Chronicles 35:14

Alternate translation: “They … prepared the offerings that they would eat and the offerings that the priests would eat”

2 Chronicles 35:15

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: “as David, Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun the king’s seer had directed them” (See: Active or Passive)

These are the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 35:16

This refers to everything associated with the preparation, the sacrifice, and the worship of Yahweh during the Passover. The word “service” can be expressed as a verb and If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they did everything that needed to be done to serve Yahweh” (See: Abstract Nouns and Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 35:17

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “observed the Passover” or “celebrated the Passover” (See: Idiom)

This refers to celebrating the festival. Alternate translation: “then kept the Festival of Unleavened Bread” or “then celebrated the Festival of Unleavened Bread” (See: Ellipsis)

2 Chronicles 35:18

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: “There had never been such a Passover celebration in Israel” (See: Active or Passive)

This refers specifically to the nation of Israel as a whole, as it was before the northern kingdom and southern king split.

Alternate translation: “from the time”

Here “Israel” refers specifically to the northern kingdom of Israel.

2 Chronicles 35:19

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “They observed this Passover” (See: Active or Passive)

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “was observed” or “was celebrated” (See: Idiom)

“year 18” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

2 Chronicles 35:20

This means that he restored the worship in the temple as God had intended it to be. Alternate translation: “restored proper worship to the temple” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

This is the name of the king of Egypt. Here the king represents himself accompanied by his army. Alternate translation: “Necho, king of Egypt, went up with his army” (See: How to Translate Names and Synecdoche)

This is the name of a city. Here the city represents the people who live there. Alternate translation: “against the people of Carchemish” (See: How to Translate Names and Metonymy)

Here both Josiah and Necho represent themselves accompained by their armies. Alternate translation: “Josiah and his army went to fight against Necho and his army” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 35:21

Necho uses this rhetorical question to tell Josiah that he is not in conflict with him and that Josiah should not attack him. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “You have no reason to attack me, king of Judah.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Here the king Josiah represents his kingdom. Alternate translation: “I am not fighting your kingdom” (See: Synecdoche)

Here the word “house” refers to the house of Babylon, where “house” is a metonym for the kingdom. The kingdom is a synechdoche representing the Babylonian army. Alternate translation: “against the house of Babylon, with whom” (See: Metonymy and Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 35:22

Josiah disguised himself so that the other armies would not recognize him.

The word “him” refers to Necho who represents himself accompanied by his army. Alternate translation: “fight with the army of Egypt” (See: Synecdoche)

Here God is represented by his “mouth” to emphasize his speech. Alternate translation: “that had come from God” or “that God had said to him” (See: Synecdoche)

The word “he” refers to Josiah who represents himself accompanied by his army. Alternate translation: “so he and his army went” (See: Synecdoche)

This is the name of a place. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 35:24

“Judah” and “Jerusalem” represent the people who live there. Alternate translation: “All the people of Judah and Jerusalem” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 35:25

This means the day on which the writer wrote. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 5:9.

This could mean: (1) “this is where they are: they” or (2) “they still exist: they.”

This was an ancient scroll of funeral songs.

2 Chronicles 35:26

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 good deeds that he did” (See: Active or Passive)

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 words” (See: Active or Passive)

2 Chronicles 35:27

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and men have written of all his deeds … in the book” (See: Active or Passive)

This refers to all of the significant things that he did from the beginning of his reign as king to the end of his life. Alternate translation: “all of his deeds” or “everything he did from the beginning of his reign to when he died” (See: Merism)

This is a book that no longer exists.

2 Chronicles 36

2 Chronicles 36 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This is the end of the story of Judah as an independent country.

Special concepts in this chapter

Punishment

God warned the people through the prophets, that he would punish them if they did not worship Yahweh. The people refused to listen to the prophets or to stop their evil deeds. God finally punished them by letting the Babylonians conquer them. (See: prophet, prophecy, prophesy, seer, prophetess and evil, wicked, unpleasant and work, works, deeds)

2 Chronicles 36:1

This is a man’s name. (See: How to Translate Names)

The phrase “in his … place” is a metaphor meaning “instead of him.” Alternate translation: “instead of his father” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 36:2

“23 years old…3 months” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 36:3

The idiom “removed him at Jerusalem” means that he caused him no longer to be king in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “The king of Egypt removed him from being king in Jerusalem” (See: Idiom)

Here the word “land” represents the people who lived there. Alternate translation: “fined the people of the land” (See: Metonymy)

You may convert this to a modern measure. A talent was about 33 kilograms. Alternate translation: “thirty-three hundred kilograms of silver and thirty-three kilograms of gold” or “about 3,300 kilograms of silver and 33 kilograms of gold” (See: Biblical Money and Numbers)

2 Chronicles 36:4

These are the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

2 Chronicles 36:5

“25 years old…11 years” (See: Numbers)

Here “sight” represents judgment. Yahweh saw and did not approve of Jehoiakim’s actions. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh judged to be evil” or “what Yahweh considered to be evil” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 36:6

The word “him” refers to Jehoiakim. Jehoiakim represents either Jerusalem or the nation of Judah. Alternate translation: “attacked Jerusalem” or “attacked Judah” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 36:7

Since Nebuchadnezzar was king, he may have had his soldiers do this. Alternate translation: “Nebuchadnezzar also had his soldiers carry” (See: Metonymy)

Here the word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of Yahweh” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 36:8

This usually refers to worshiping false gods, which Yahweh hated.

This idiom refers to things that he did for which people could accuse him of wrong. 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: “what people found against him” or “things that he did for which people could accuse him” (See: Idiom and Active or Passive)

Alternate translation: “anyone can look in the book … Israel and see they are written there”

This is a book that no longer exists. See how you translated this in 2 Chronicles 35:27.

The phrase “in his place” is a metaphor meaning “instead of him.” Alternate translation: “became king instead of Jehoiakim” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 36:9

“8 years old…3 months and 10 days” (See: Numbers)

Here “sight” here represents judgment. Yahweh saw and did not approve of Jehoiachin’s actions. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh judged to be evil” or “what Yahweh considered to be evil” (See: Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 36:10

Alternate translation: “brought Jehoiachin to Babylon”

Here “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of Yahweh” (See: Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “Jehoiachin’s relative”

2 Chronicles 36:11

“21 years old…11 years” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 36:12

Here “sight” represents judgment. Yahweh saw and did not approve of Zedekiah’s actions. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh his God judged to be evil” or “what Yahweh his God considered to be evil” (See: Metaphor)

Here the word “mouth” represents the words that Yahweh spoke. Alternate translation: “who spoke the words that Yahweh spoke to him” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 36:13

The phrases “stiffened his neck” and “hardened his heart” are both metaphors that mean to become stubborn. Zedekiah refusing to worship Yahweh is spoken of as if he refused to turn to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “Zedekiah stubbornly refused to worship Yahweh” (See: Doublet and Metaphor)

2 Chronicles 36:14

The idiom “followed the … practices” means to do those things. Alternate translation: “they did the disgusting things that the nations did” (See: Idiom)

This phrase refers to worshiping other gods.

A place that is unfit to be used for God’s purposes is spoken of as if it were physically dirty. The word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “They polluted the temple of Yahweh” (See: Metaphor and Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 36:15

Alternate translation: “many times”

This refers to the temple.

2 Chronicles 36:16

Here the word “arose” refers to beginning an action. Yahweh punishing his people in his anger is spoken of as if his wrath were a person who acted against them. Alternate translation: “in his wrath, Yahweh began to punish his people” (See: Metaphor)

This idiom means that nobody could do anything to prevent what happened. Alternate translation: “there was no way to avoid it” (See: Idiom)

2 Chronicles 36:17

The idiom “brought on them” means to cause to attack with his army. Alternate translation: “God caused the king of the Chaldeans to attack them, and he” (See: Idiom)

The king probably did not personally kill their young men. Rather, his army killed them. Alternate translation: “whose army killed their young men with swords” (See: Metonymy)

Here “hand” is a metonym for the power to defeat them. Alternate translation: “God allowed the Chaldean army to defeat them” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 36:18

The word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the temple of God … the temple of Yahweh” (See: Metonymy)

2 Chronicles 36:19

“They” refers to the Babylonian soldiers.

2 Chronicles 36:20

Here “the king” refers to his soldiers whom he ordered to do the work. The phrase “carried away” is an idiom that means to forcefully bring them to Babylon. Alternate translation: “The king had his army forcefully take to Babylon” (See: Metonymy and Idiom)

Alternate translation: “until the kingdom of Persia came to power”

2 Chronicles 36:21

Here the noun “word” can be translated with the verb “spoke.” The word “mouth” represents Jeremiah. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh spoke through Jeremiah” or “the word from Yahweh that Jeremiah spoke” (See: Synecdoche)

The people were supposed to obey the Sabbath law by not farming the land every seventh year. This phrase speaks about this as if the land were a person that would obey the Sabbath law and rest. Alternate translation: “until the land had rested according to the Sabbath law” or “until, as required by the Sabbath law, no one had farmed the land” (See: Personification)

The word “it” refers to the land. The land is spoken of as if it were a person who observed the Sabbath. Alternate translation: “The requirements of the Sabbath law were fulfilled as long as the land lay abandoned” (See: Personification)

“so that 70 years passed while the land lay abandoned” (See: Numbers)

2 Chronicles 36:22

This refers to the beginning of the reign of King Cyrus. (See: Ordinal Numbers)

Here the noun “word” can be translated with the verb “spoke.” The word “mouth” represents Jeremiah. 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 what Yahweh spoke through Jeremiah might happen” or “so that the word from Yahweh that Jeremiah spoke might happen” (See: Synecdoche and Active or Passive)

Motivating the spirit is a synecdoche for making someone want to act. Alternate translation: “Yahweh made Cyrus, king of Persia, want to act” (See: Synecdoche)

2 Chronicles 36:23

This is an exaggeration, as there were kingdoms over which Cyrus did not rule. (See: Hyperbole)

Here the word “house” represents a temple. Alternate translation: “to build a temple for him” (See: Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “Yahweh’s people”

Alternate translation: “Let that person go up to the land of Judah”

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2 Chronicles

2 Chronicles front

Introduction to 2 Chronicles

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of 2 Chronicles

What are 1 and 2 Chronicles about?

How should the title of this book be translated?

Who wrote 1 and 2 Chronicles?

Why are there multiple books that give the history of the kings of Israel?

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

Why did God punish the people of Israel?

Why are alliances with foreign countries seen as evil in these books?

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

What is the meaning of the term “Israel”?

What does it mean to “seek God?”

What does the phrase “to this day” mean?

2 Chronicles 1

2 Chronicles 1 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Special concepts in this chapter

Wisdom

2 Chronicles 1:1

2 Chronicles 1:2

2 Chronicles 1:4

2 Chronicles 1:5

2 Chronicles 1:6

2 Chronicles 1:7

2 Chronicles 1:8

2 Chronicles 1:9

2 Chronicles 1:10

2 Chronicles 1:11

2 Chronicles 1:12

2 Chronicles 1:13

2 Chronicles 1:14

2 Chronicles 1:15

2 Chronicles 1:16

2 Chronicles 1:17

2 Chronicles 2

2 Chronicles 2 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Special concepts in this chapter

House of God

2 Chronicles 2:1

2 Chronicles 2:2

2 Chronicles 2:3

2 Chronicles 2:4

2 Chronicles 2:5

2 Chronicles 2:6

2 Chronicles 2:8

2 Chronicles 2:10

2 Chronicles 2:12

2 Chronicles 2:13

2 Chronicles 2:14

2 Chronicles 2:15

2 Chronicles 2:16

2 Chronicles 2:17

2 Chronicles 2:18

2 Chronicles 3

2 Chronicles 3 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Special concepts in this chapter

Location of the temple

2 Chronicles 3:1

2 Chronicles 3:2

2 Chronicles 3:3

2 Chronicles 3:4

2 Chronicles 3:5

2 Chronicles 3:6

2 Chronicles 3:7

2 Chronicles 3:8

2 Chronicles 3:9

2 Chronicles 3:10

2 Chronicles 3:11

2 Chronicles 3:13

2 Chronicles 3:14

2 Chronicles 3:15

2 Chronicles 3:16

2 Chronicles 3:17

2 Chronicles 4