Deuteronomy

Deuteronomy front

Deuteronomy front:intro

Introduction to Deuteronomy

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of Deuteronomy

Moses reminds Israel of how Yahweh guided them through the wilderness (1:1–3:29)
Moses appeals for Israel to obey the law of Yahweh (4:1–43)
The Ten Commandments (5:1–10:22)
Rules and warnings from the Law (11:1–26:19)
Instructions for entering Canaan (27:1–26)
Blessings for obeying and curses for disobeying (28:1-68)
The covenant renewed (29:1-30:20)
Last words of Moses, the Song of Moses, and his death (31:1–34:12)

What is the Book of Deuteronomy about?

In the book of Deuteronomy, Moses repeats the laws of the covenant that God made with the people of Israel. The people of Israel were about to go into the Promised Land. Before they entered the land, Moses reminded them of what Yahweh did for them and what he expected from them. Moses warned the people about worshipping idols and no longer trusting Yahweh once they settled in the Promised Land. Yahweh promised to judge those who disobey him and to bless those who obey his Law. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/covenant.md]])

How should the title of this book be translated?

The name "Deuteronomy" means "Second Law" or "the retelling of the Law." Translators may decide on a title such as, "A Repeat of the Law" or "Moses Explains the Law Again." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Who wrote the Book of Deuteronomy?

The writers of both the Old and New Testament present Moses as being very involved with writing the Book of Deuteronomy. However, many scholars think that Joshua wrote chapter 34. This chapter tells how Moses died.

What are the important features of the Book of Deuteronomy?

The book contains a series of speeches that Moses gave to Israel before he died. He spoke these things just before the people entered the Promised Land. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/promisedland.md]])

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

Why did Yahweh command the Israelites to completely destroy the people who lived in the Promised Land?

As God prepared the Israelites to enter the Promised Land, he commanded them to completely destroy the Canaanite people who lived there. The Israelites would then not be tempted to join them and worship their false gods.

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

What is the role of God's name in Deuteronomy?

God's name is mentioned over thirty times in the book of Deuteronomy. The use of God's name in this book usually represents God's honor or fame. At other times in Deuteronomy, God's name represents his presence. God said he would choose a place and make his name dwell there. This means God's presence would be there. The people were to go to that place to worship him.

Can this book be translated before the rest of the Pentateuch?

The Books of Genesis and Exodus help to explain what happens in Deuteronomy. For this reason, those books should be translated before the Book of Deuteronomy.

Deuteronomy 1

Deuteronomy 1:intro-0

Deuteronomy 01 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter forms a continuation with the last chapter of the book of Numbers.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's victory

The chapter explains that Israel's conquering of the Promised Land will be done by Yahweh. They are not to fear the people of Canaan but be obedient to Yahweh. Yahweh is bringing about his judgement upon the people of Canaan. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/promisedland.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/judge.md]])

# Possessing the land

While the Promised Land belongs to Israel, they do not possess the land. Possessing the land is an important theme. Posessing the land depended on Israel's faithfulness. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/faithful.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:1

beyond the Jordan

This refers to the land across the Jordan River, to the east of Israel. Moses was east of the Jordan when he spoke to the Israelites. Alternate translation: "east of the Jordan"

Suph ... Paran ... Tophel ... Laban ... Hazeroth ... Dizahab

These are the names of places. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:2

It is eleven days' journey from Horeb ... to Kadesh Barnea

"It takes eleven days to walk from Horeb ... to Kadesh Barnea"

Mount Seir

This is a mountainous area south of the Dead Sea. The area is also called "Edom." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

eleven

"11" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:3

It happened in the fortieth year, in the eleventh month, on the first day of the month, that Moses spoke

The ordinal numbers can be translated as cardinal numbers. Alternate translation: "They had lived in the wilderness for 40 years, 11 months, and 1 day, when Moses spoke" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-ordinal/01.md]])

Yahweh

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.

Deuteronomy 1:4

Yahweh had attacked

"Yahweh had enabled the Israelites to defeat"

Sihon ... Og

These are names of kings. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Heshbon ... Ashtaroth at Edrei

These are names of cities. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:5

Beyond the Jordan

This refers to the land across the Jordan River, to the east of Israel. Moses was east of the Jordan when he said this. See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 1:1. Alternate translation: "East of the Jordan River"

Deuteronomy 1:6

spoke to us

The word "us" refers to Moses and the other people of Israel.

You have lived long enough in this hill country

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "You do not need to stay near this mountain any longer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:7

General Information:

Moses continues to remind the people of Israel what Yahweh said to them.

Turn and take your journey

The word "turn" is an idiom for beginning action. Alternate translation: "Start again on your journey" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

hill country ... Euphrates

Yahweh is describing places in the land that he has promised to give to the Israelites.

hill country

This is an area in the hills near the place where the Amorites lived.

lowlands

an area of land that is low and flat

Deuteronomy 1:8

Look

"Pay attention to what I am about to say"

I have set the land before you

"I am now giving this land to you"

that Yahweh swore

Yahweh is speaking as if he were another person. Alternate translation: "that I, Yahweh, swore" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

fathers

The word "fathers" is a synecdoche for all ancestors. Alternate translation: "ancestors" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:9

General Information:

Moses continues to remind the people of Israel what Yahweh said to them.

I spoke to you at that time

Here "I" refers to Moses. The phrase "at that time" refers to when the Israelites were at Horeb, which is the same as Mount Sinai. Alternate translation: "When we were at Horeb, I spoke to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

I am not able to carry you myself alone

Here "to carry you" means "to lead you" or "to govern you." Alternate translation: "It is too much for me to lead you by myself" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:10

as the multitude of the stars of heaven

This is an exaggeration that means God has greatly increased the number of Israelites. Alternate translation: "a great crowd of many people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:11

a thousand times

The phrase "a thousand" is a metaphor for "very many." Alternate translation: "very many times" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

a thousand

1000 (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:12

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

But how can I myself alone carry your loads, your burdens, and your disputes?

Moses uses a question to emphasize that he cannot solve all of their problems by himself. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "I cannot carry your loads, your burdens, and your disputes by myself." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

carry your loads, your burdens

Moses speaks as if the people's problems and complaints that he needed to take care of were heavy physical objects that he had been carrying. Alternate translation: "take care of your problems, your complaints" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

your disputes

"your arguments" or "your disagreements"

Deuteronomy 1:13

men of good repute from each tribe

"men from each tribe whom the people of Israel respect"

Deuteronomy 1:14

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 1:15

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel.

men of good repute

"men whom your people respected." See how this is translated in Deuteronomy 1:13.

of thousands ... of hundreds ... of fifties ... of tens

"of groups of 1,000 ... of groups of 100 ... of groups of 50 ... and groups of 10" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

captains ... officers

These are titles for different leaders in Israel's government.

tribe by tribe

"from each of your tribes"

Deuteronomy 1:16

judge righteously between a man and his brother

"make right and fair decisions about the disputes Israelites have with each other"

Deuteronomy 1:17

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the judges, so the commands are plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

You will not show partiality

"Do not show partiality"

you will hear the small and the great alike

These two extremes "small" and "great" represent all people. Alternate translation: "you will treat all people alike" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

You will not be afraid of the face of man

The word "face" is a metonym for the whole person. "You will not" is a command. "Do not be afraid of anyone" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:18

at that time

This means the time when they were at Horeb, at Mount Sinai. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:19

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel what the previous generation of Israelites did.

terrible wilderness that you saw

"large and dangerous desert that you crossed through"

Deuteronomy 1:20

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel what the previous generation of Israelites did.

Deuteronomy 1:21

Look ... your God ... before you; go up, take possession ... your fathers ... to you; do not be afraid, neither be discouraged

Moses is speaking to the Israelites as if he were speaking to one man, so these forms should be singular, not plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

has set the land before you

"is now giving this land to you." See how this is translated in Deuteronomy 1:8.

Deuteronomy 1:22

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel what the previous generation of Israelites did.

Deuteronomy 1:23

twelve men

"12 men" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:24

They turned and went

Turning is an idiom for beginning to obey a command. Alternate translation: "They left that place and went" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Valley of Eshkol

This is a valley in the Hebron region, which is south of Jerusalem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

scouted it

"looked for places they could attack"

Deuteronomy 1:25

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel what the previous generation of Israelites did.

They took

"The 12 men took"

took some of the produce of the land in their hands

"picked some of the produce of the land"

brought us word and said

The speaker speaks as if a "word" were a physical object that someone could bring. Alternate translation: "told us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

said, 'It is a good land that Yahweh our God is giving to us.'

The direct quotation can be translated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: "said that the land that Yahweh our God was giving to us was good"

Deuteronomy 1:26

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel what the previous generation of Israelites did.

Yet you refused to attack

God commanded the Israelites to attack and destroy the Amorites, but the Israelites were afraid and refused to fight them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:27

into the hand of the Amorites

Here "into the hand" means to give the Amorites power over them. Alternate translation: "into the power of the Amorites" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:28

Where can we go now?

Here this question emphasizes how afraid they were. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "We have nowhere to go." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

made our heart to melt

This means that they became afraid. Alternate translation: "made us very afraid" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

are fortified up to the heavens

This is an exaggeration that emphasizes how frightened the people were because the cities were so large and strong. Alternate translation: "have walls so high it is like they reach up to the heavens" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

sons of the Anakim

These are descendants of the Anak people who were very large and fierce. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:29

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel what the previous generation of Israelites did.

I said to you

"I said to your ancestors"

Deuteronomy 1:30

before your eyes

Here the people are represented by their "eyes" to emphasize what they saw. Alternate translation: "which you yourselves saw" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:31

you have seen ... Yahweh your God carried you ... you went ... you came

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so all instances of "you" and "your" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Yahweh your God carried you, as a man carries his son

Here Yahweh's care for his people is compared to that of a father. Alternate translation: "Yahweh your God has taken care of you, like a father takes care of his son" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

until you came to this place

"until you came to this land that God promised to give you"

Deuteronomy 1:32

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel what the previous generation of Israelites did.

Deuteronomy 1:33

make camp

"put up your tents"

Deuteronomy 1:34

General Information:

Moses continues to remind the people of Israel what Yahweh said to them.

heard the sound of your words

"heard what you were saying"

he swore and said

God made a vow not to allow those who rebelled against him to enter the land he promised to give them.

Deuteronomy 1:35

will see

"will enter"

Deuteronomy 1:36

Jephunneh

This is the name of Caleb's father. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

he wholly followed Yahweh

Yahweh speaks as if he were someone else. Alternate translation: "he has completely obeyed me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:37

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel what the previous generation of Israelites did.

Yahweh was angry with me because of you

This refers to when Moses disobeyed what Yahweh told him to do because Moses was angry with the people of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:38

Nun

This is the name of Joshua's father. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

who stands before you

Why Joshua stands before Moses can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "who stands before you as your servant" or "who helps you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:39

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel what the previous generation of Israelites did.

Deuteronomy 1:40

turn and take your journey

"turn around and go back on the road you have come on"

Deuteronomy 1:41

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel what the previous generation of Israelites did.

sinned against Yahweh

"we have rebelled against Yahweh by disobeying him"

we will follow

"we will obey"

to attack the hill country

Here the metonym "hill country" represents the people that live there. Alternate translation: "to attack the people who live in the hill country" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:42

for I will not be with you, and you will be defeated by your enemies

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "your enemies will defeat you because I will not be with you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:43

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel.

attacked the hill country

The metonym "hill country" stands for the people who live there. Alternate translation: "attacked the people who live in the hill country" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 1:44

chased you like bees

A "bee" is a small, flying insect that flies in large groups and stings people who threaten them. This means that so many Amorites attacked the Israelite soldiers that they had to leave the battle. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

Seir

This is the name of a piece of land. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Hormah

This is the name of a city. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

struck you down

"killed many of your soldiers"

Deuteronomy 1:45

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel what the previous generation of Israelites did.

returned and wept

"returned to Kadesh and wept"

Deuteronomy 1:46

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 2

Deuteronomy 2:intro-0

Deuteronomy 02 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Covenant faithfulness

Yahweh is faithful to the covenant he made with Abraham. He is also faithful to the promises he made with Esau and Lot. Because of this, Israel was given specific land it was able to conquer in Canaan. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/covenantfaith.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/faithful.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/covenant.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/promise.md]])

Deuteronomy 2:1

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel what the previous generation of Israelites did.

Then we turned and took our journey

"Then we turned around and went"

we went around Mount Seir for many days

Possible meanings are 1) the Israelites traveled around the mountain called Seir for a very long time or 2) the Israelites wandered in a region called Mount Seir for a very long time.

Mount Seir

This is a mountainous area south of the Dead Sea. The area is also called "Edom." See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 1:2 (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

many days

Some languages translate this as "many nights."

Deuteronomy 2:2

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 2:3

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 2:4

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

of your brothers, the descendants of Esau

"of your relatives, the descendants of Esau"

Deuteronomy 2:5

I have given Mount Seir to Esau as a possession

Yahweh is reminding the Israelites that he has given this territory to the descendants of Esau.

Deuteronomy 2:6

General Information:

Moses continues to instruct Israel in how they are to treat the descendants of Esau.

You will purchase food from them

Yahweh is giving them permission or instruction, not a command, and he is telling them not to steal. "I permit you to purchase food from them" or "If you need food, you are to purchase it from them"

from them

"from Esau's descendants"

for money

If these words are not needed or make the translation unclear, you may omit them.

Deuteronomy 2:7

your God has blessed you ... your hand ... your walking ... your God ... with you, and you have lacked

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so all instances of "you" and "your" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

you in all the work of your hand

The "work of your hand" refers to all the work they had done. Alternate translation: "all of your work" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

he has known your walking

Here what happened to the people while they were walking is spoken of as their "walking." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

forty years

"40 years" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

you have lacked nothing

This is a litotes for "you have had everything you needed." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 2:8

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel.

by our brothers

"by our relatives"

Elath ... Ezion Geber

These are names of cities. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

we turned

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "we kept going" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 2:9

General Information:

This is the end of a part of Moses' speech reminding the Israelites of how Yahweh guided them in the wilderness. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-background/01.md]])

Do not trouble Moab

The word "Moab" represents the people of Moab. Alternate translation: "Do not trouble the people of Moab" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Ar

This is the name of a city in Moab. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

the descendants of Lot

The people of Israel were related to the descendants of Moab. Moab was the son of Lot. Lot was the nephew of Abraham. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 2:10

General Information:

The writer begins to give background information about the people of the land. These words are not part of Moses' speech to the Israelites. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-background/01.md]])

The Emites lived

These words give background information about the Emite people, who had lived in the land before the Moabites. Your language may have a special way to mark background information. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-background/01.md]])

Emites

This is the name of a people group that were considered giants. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Anakim

These are descendants of the Anak people who were very large and fierce. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 1:28.

Deuteronomy 2:11

General Information:

This continues the background information about the different people groups that had lived in the land. (See: Deuteronomy 2:10 and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-background/01.md]]).

Rephaim

This is the name of a people group that were considered giants. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 2:12

General Information:

Horites

This is the name of a people group. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

destroyed them from before them

"killed all of them so none of them were left living with them" or "removed them from their presence by killing all of them"

Deuteronomy 2:13

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the Israelites of what had happened to them in the wilderness.

'Now rise up ... Zered.' So

"'Then Yahweh said, "Now rise up ... Zered.' So." This can be translated as an indirect quote. Alternate translation: "Then Yahweh told us to rise up ... Zered. So" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotations/01.md]])

rise up

begin to do something (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the brook Zered

This stream flows into the Dead Sea from the southeast and creates the border between Edom and Moab. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 2:14

Now the days

The word "now" marks a change from the story to background information about how long the people of Israel traveled and about God's anger towards that generation. If your language has a way of showing that what follows is background information, you should use it here. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-background/01.md]])

thirty-eight years

"38 years" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

were gone from the people

This is a polite way of saying "had died." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 2:15

the hand of Yahweh was against

Here "the hand of Yahweh" refers to Yahweh's power. Alternate translation: "Yahweh used his power against" or "Yahweh punished" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 2:16

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel of what happened in the past.

Deuteronomy 2:17

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 2:18

You are

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the word "you" is singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Ar

This is the name of a city in Moab. See how you translated it in Deuteronomy 2:9. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 2:19

do not trouble ... will not give you

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the command and the word "you" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

to the descendants of Lot

The people of Israel were related to the descendants of Ammon. Ammon was the son of Lot. Lot was the nephew of Abraham. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 2:20

General Information:

These verses begin to give background information about the people groups who lived in the land. If your language has a way of showing that what follows is background information, you should use it here. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-background/01.md]])

That also is considered

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "People also consider that" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Rephaim

This is the name of a people group. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 2:11. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 2:21

Anakim

This is the name of a people group. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 1:28. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

destroyed them before the Ammonites

"allowed the Ammonites to defeat them" or "allowed the Ammonites to kill them all"

they succeeded them and lived in their place

"the Ammonites took over everything the Rephaim had owned and have lived where the Rephaim had lived"

Deuteronomy 2:22

Horites

This is the name of a people group. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 2:12. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

succeeded them and have lived in their place

"took over everything the Horites had owned and have lived where the Horites had lived"

Deuteronomy 2:23

General Information:

The writer finishes describing how God enabled Esau to conquer the land Esau is now inhabiting.

Avvites ... Caphtorim

These are names of people groups. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Caphtor

This is the name of a place. It may be another name for the island of Crete located in the Mediterranean Sea. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

destroyed them

"destroyed the Avvim"

settled in their place

"lived where the Avvim had lived"

Deuteronomy 2:24

General Information:

The writer has finished giving background information and is now again telling what Moses said to the Israelites.

Now rise up

Yahweh is telling Moses what the people should do. "Now get up" or "Now go."

go on your journey

"continue your journey"

Valley of the Arnon

This is the name of the valley of the Arnon River. It creates the border between Moab and the Amorites. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

I have given into your hand

The metonym "into your hand" means "into your control or power." Alternate translation: "I have given you the power to defeat" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

your hand ... Begin to possess it ... fight

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the word "your" and the commands "begin to possess" and "fight" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Sihon

This is the name of a king. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 1:4. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Heshbon

This is the name of a city. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 1:4. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

fight with him

"fight against him and his army"

Deuteronomy 2:25

terror of you ... news about you ... because of you

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so all instances of "you" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

put the fear and terror

The words "fear" and "terror" mean basically the same thing and emphasize that the fear is intense. Alternate translation: "put a terrible fear" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

peoples that are under the whole sky

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "peoples in every land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

tremble and be in anguish

This is hendiadys and emphasizes that the people will "tremble in anguish." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hendiadys/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 2:26

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel.

I sent

Here "I" refers to Moses.

wilderness of Kedemoth

This is the name of a place near the valley of Arnon. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Sihon ... Heshbon

These are the names of a man and a place. See how you translated them in Deuteronomy 1:4. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

with words of peace

"with my offer of peace" or "with a message from me asking for peace"

Deuteronomy 2:27

I will turn neither to the right hand nor to the left

This phrase emphasizes that they will always go in the same direction. It can be stated in positive form. "I will not change direction" or "I will always stay on the path" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 2:28

General Information:

This continues Moses' message to King Sihon.

You will sell me food for money, so that I may eat; give me water for money, so that I may drink

Moses tells Sihon that the Israelites will not steal from the Amorites and requests that Sihon and his people sell food and water to the Israelites; he is not giving a command. Alternate translation: "I expect to have to pay for food so I can eat and to pay for water so I can drink"

sell me ... I may eat ... give me ... I may drink

Moses is referring to the people of Israel as if they were Moses himself. Alternate translation: "sell to me and my people ... we may eat ... give us ... we may drink" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

only let me pass through on my feet

"only let us walk through your land"

Deuteronomy 2:29

Ar

This is the name of a place. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 2:9. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 2:30

General Information:

Moses continues to remind the people of what happened in the past.

Sihon ... Heshbon

These are the names of a man and a place. See how you translated them in Deuteronomy 1:4. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

your God ... your might

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so all instances of "your" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

hardened his mind and made his heart obstinate

Both of these phrases mean the same thing and emphasize that Yahweh "caused him to become very stubborn." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 2:31

to deliver up Sihon and his land before you

"to give Sihon and his land over to you"

begin to possess it, in order that you may inherit his land

"take possession of his land, so that you may inherit it"

Deuteronomy 2:32

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel about what happened in the past.

Sihon

This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 1:4. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Jahaz

This is the name of a city in Moab (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 2:33

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 2:34

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people about what happened in the past.

We took all his cities

"We captured all of King Sihon's cities"

Deuteronomy 2:35

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 2:36

Aroer

This is the name of a city on the north bank of the Arnon River. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Valley of the Arnon

"Arnon" is the name of a river. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 2:24. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

there was not a city too high for us

This negative statement is used to emphasize their success in battle. This can be stated in a positive form. Alternate translation: "we were able to defeat the people of every city even if the city had high walls around it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 2:37

you did not go

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so "you" is singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Jabbok River

This is the name of a river that created the border between Sihon's land and the land of the Ammonites. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 3

Deuteronomy 3:intro-0

Deuteronomy 03 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Victories

The victories recorded in this chapter occurred on the east side of the Jordan River. This was not part of the Promised Land, which was on the west side of the Jordan River. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/promisedland.md]])

Deuteronomy 3:1

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel of what happened in the past.

Og

This is the name of a king. See how you translated it in Deuteronomy 1:4. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Edrei

This is the name of a city. See how you translated it in Deuteronomy 1:4. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 3:2

Sihon

This is the name of a king. See how you translated it in Deuteronomy 1:4. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Heshbon

This is the name of a city. See how you translated it in Deuteronomy 1:4. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Yahweh said to me, 'Do not fear him; ... given you ... under your control ... You will do ... as you did ... at Heshbon.'

Yahweh is speaking to Moses as if Moses were the Israelites, so the command "do not fear" and all instances of "you" and "your" are plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

fear him ... over him ... his people and his land

Here the words "him" and "his" refer to Og.

I have given you victory

Yahweh speaks of what he will do as if he had already done it. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pastforfuture/01.md]])

You will do to him as you did to Sihon

The word "him" is a metonym for "his people." Alternate translation: "You will destroy Og and his people as you did Sihon" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 3:3

all his people were put under our control

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh put all of Og's people under our control" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

not one of his people remained

This is a litotes that is used to emphasize that the Israelites did not let anyone live. Alternate translation: "all of his people were dead" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 3:4

There was not one of the sixty cities that we did not take

This is a double negative that emphasizes that they took all of the 60 cities. Alternate translation: "We took every one of the sixty cities" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublenegatives/01.md]])

sixty cities

"60 cities" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

the region of Argob

This is the name of a region within Bashan. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 3:5

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel of what happened in the past.

These were all cities fortified with

"These were all cities protected by"

besides very many

"in addition to very many" or "not including very many"

Deuteronomy 3:6

Sihon

This is the name of a king. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 1:4. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Heshbon

This is the name of a city. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 1:4. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 3:7

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 3:8

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel.

out of the hand of the two kings

Here the metonym "out of the hand of" means "from the control of." Alternate translation: "from the control of the two kings" or "from the two kings" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Amorites

"Amorite people." See how you translated the name of this people group in Deuteronomy 1:4.

beyond the Jordan

This refers to the land across the Jordan River, to the east of Israel. Moses was east of the Jordan when he said this. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 1:1. Alternate translation: "east of the Jordan River"

the Valley of the Arnon

See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 2:24.

Mount Hermon

This is the name of a mountain at the northern border of Bashan. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 3:9

Mount Hermon ... Sirion ... Senir

These are all names of the same mountain which is at the northern border of Bashan. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 3:10

Bashan ... Edrei ... Og

See how you translated these in Deuteronomy 1:4.

of the plain

This is high, flat land between the Arnon River and Mount Gilead.

Salekah

This is the name of a city near Edrei. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 3:11

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel.

For of the remnant ... the way people measure

This is background information about King Og. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-background/01.md]])

Rephaim

See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 2:11.

Look!

"Pay attention to the important thing I am going to tell you."

Was it not in Rabbah, ... live?

The writer uses a question to remind the people of Israel that they could go to Rabbah and see how large Og must have been. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Possible meanings are 1) "It was in Rabbah, ... live." or 2) "It is in Rabbah ... live." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

cubits

A cubit is 46 centimeters. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-bdistance/01.md]])

the way people measure

"according to the cubit most people use"

Deuteronomy 3:12

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of what happened in the past.

Aroer

See how you translated the name of this town in Deuteronomy 2:36.

the Valley of the Arnon

See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 2:24.

Deuteronomy 3:13

the region of Argob

See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 3:4.

The same territory is called the land of Rephaim

The writer begins to present background information about the land that the people of Israel captured. If your language has a way of showing that what follows is background information, you should use it here. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-background/01.md]])

Rephaim

See how you translated the name of this land in Deuteronomy 2:11.

Deuteronomy 3:14

General Information:

This continues the background information about the land the people of Israel captured (Deuteronomy 3:13).

Jair

This is the name of a man. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

the Geshurites and the Maakathites

These are people groups who lived west of Bashan. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Havvoth Jair

Translators may make a footnote that says: "The name 'Havvoth Jair' means 'tent villages of Jair' or 'realm of Jair.'"

Deuteronomy 3:15

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel.

I gave

Here "I" refers to Moses.

to Makir

Makir was the son of Manasseh. He had died before Moses gave this land. The name is a metonym for the descendants of the person. Alternate translation: "to the descendants of Makir" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 3:16

Jabbok River

This is the name of a river that created the border between Sihon's land and the land of the Ammonites. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 2:37. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 3:17

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel.

Another of its borders is also

"The western border of the Reubenite and Gadite territory is"

Kinnereth

the Sea of Kinnereth, also called "the Sea of Galilee" or "the Lake of Gennesaret" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Mount Pisgah

This is the name of a mountain in the northern part of the Abarim mountain range. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 3:18

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel.

I commanded you at that time

Moses reminds the tribe of Reuben, the tribe of Gad, and the half tribe of Manasseh that they must help the other Israelites conquer the rest of the land God promised them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

will pass over armed before

"will take your weapons and cross the Jordan River ahead of"

your brothers, the people of Israel

"your fellow Israelites"

Deuteronomy 3:19

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the tribes of Reuben and Gad and half of the tribe of Manasseh.

Deuteronomy 3:20

Yahweh gives rest to your brothers

The writer speaks as if the ability to rest were a physical object that could be given as a gift. The word "rest" is also a metaphor for peaceful life in which there is no war. Alternate translation: "Yahweh allows your brothers to rest" or "Yahweh allows your brothers to stop fighting wars and live peacefully" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

beyond the Jordan

then will you return

Moses is emphasizing that the other tribes must possess their land before Yahweh will permit these three tribes to possess their land. "only then are you to return."

Deuteronomy 3:21

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel about what happened in the past.

Your eyes have seen

Here "eyes" refers to Joshua. Alternate translation: "You have seen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 3:22

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 3:23

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people about what happened in the past.

I implored

Here "I" refers to Moses. This means he asked God in a very earnest, emotional way.

Deuteronomy 3:24

to show your servant

Here "your servant" is a polite way of speaking to someone with greater authority. Alternate translation: "to show me, your servant"

your strong hand

Here the metonym "hand" means control or power. Alternate translation: "your power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

for what god is there ... acts?

Moses uses a question to emphasize that Yahweh is the only God with the power to do the works he has done. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "for there is no god ... acts." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

in heaven or in earth

These two extremes together mean "anywhere." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 3:25

beyond the Jordan

"west of the Jordan River." When Moses spoke these words to Yahweh, he was east of the Jordan River in Moab.

Deuteronomy 3:26

General Information:

Moses continues telling the people of Israel what happened in the past.

Yahweh was angry with me because of you

This refers to when Moses disobeyed what Yahweh told him to do because Moses was angry with the people of Israel. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 1:37. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 3:27

Pisgah

See how you translated this is in Deuteronomy 3:17.

lift up your eyes

The words "lift up your eyes" are an idiom that means look. Alternate translation: "look" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 3:28

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

Deuteronomy 3:29

Beth Peor

This is the name of a town in Moab near Mount Pisgah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4

Deuteronomy 4:intro-0

Deuteronomy 04 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Law of Moses

In order to possess the land, the people needed to obey the law of Moses. This will be the most important thing in the religious life of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lawofmoses.md]])

# Moses' instructions

Moses is not allowed to enter into the Promised Land. Since they are getting ready to possess the Promised Land, Moses gives them some last instructions before his death. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/promisedland.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Rhetorical Questions

Moses uses several rhetorical questions in this chapter. The purpose of these questions is to convince his readers to obey his instructions. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:1

I am about to teach you

Moses is telling the people of Israel what God wants them to do.

to do them

"and obey them"

Deuteronomy 4:2

You will not add to the words ... neither will you diminish them

Yahweh does not want his people to create new laws, or to ignore those he has already given them.

Deuteronomy 4:3

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Your eyes have seen

Here "eyes" refers to the people of Israel. Alternate translation: "You saw" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

because of Baal Peor

The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: "because of the sins you committed at Baal Peor" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Peor

See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 3:29.

Yahweh your God has destroyed them from among you

Moses speaks to the people of Israel as though they were one person, so "your" and "you" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:4

you who clung to Yahweh

The writer speaks as if trusting in Yahweh and obeying him were like physically holding on to a person. Alternate translation: "you who were careful to obey Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:5

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Look

"Pay attention"

that you should do so in the midst of the land

"that you should obey them when you live in the land"

Deuteronomy 4:6

keep them and do them

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize that they are to obey them. Alternate translation: "obey them carefully" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the peoples

The abstract nouns "wisdom" and "understanding" can be translated as adjective phrases, and the abstract noun "sight" refers to how the peoples judge or decide on the value of something. Alternate translation: "this is what will show the peoples that you are wise and that you understand what is important" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

this great nation is a wise and understanding people

The word "nation" is a metonym for the people of that nation. Alternate translation: "the people of this great nation are wise and understanding" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:7

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel.

For what other great nation is there ... him?

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "For there is no other great nation ... him." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:8

What other great nation is there ... today?

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "There is no other great nation ... today." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:9

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel.

Only pay attention ... guard yourself ... you do not forget ... your eyes ... your heart ... your life ... make them known to your children and your children's children

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they are one person, so all instances of "you," "your," and "yourself," as well as the commands "pay attention," "guard," and "make known" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Only pay attention and carefully guard yourself

"Pay careful attention and be sure to remember these things always"

you do not forget ... they do not leave your heart

These phrases means the same thing and emphasize that the people of Israel must remember what they have seen. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

your eyes have seen

Here "eyes" are a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: "you have seen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:10

you stood before Yahweh your God

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they are one person, so all instances of "you" and "your" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Assemble me the people

"Bring the people together and bring them to me"

Deuteronomy 4:11

General Information:

Moses continues to remind the Israelites of their history.

with fire to the heart of heaven

This is an idiom. "The heart of" means "the middle of" or "the innermost part of," and "heaven" here refers to the sky. Alternate translation: "with a fire that went up to the sky" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

with darkness, cloud, and thick darkness

Here "thick darkness" describes the cloud. Alternate translation: "with a thick, dark cloud" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hendiadys/01.md]])

thick darkness

Another possible meaning is "heavy cloud."

Deuteronomy 4:12

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 4:13

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel.

He declared

"Yahweh declared"

to you

Here "you" refers to the Israelites who were at Mount Horeb.

Deuteronomy 4:14

in the land that you are crossing over to take possession of

"after you have crossed over the Jordan River and taken possession of the land"

Deuteronomy 4:15

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Deuteronomy 4:16

do not corrupt yourselves

"do not do what is wrong"

Deuteronomy 4:17

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 4:18

creeps on the ground

"crawls on the ground"

Deuteronomy 4:19

You shall not lift your eyes ... and look ... and be drawn ... Yahweh your God

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so all instances of "you" and "your" and the words "lift," "look," and "be drawn" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

You shall not ... and be drawn away to worship

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Do not ... and do not let anyone make you want to worship" or "Do not ... and do not allow yourself worship" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

all the host of the heavens

"all the army of the heavens." Here this refers to the lights we see in the sky, including the sun, moon, stars. They are called the host because there are so many of them, just as armies have many soldiers. Alternate translation: "all the multitude of things in the sky" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

of which Yahweh your God has given a share to all the peoples

This is an idiom. Moses speaks of the stars as if they were small objects like food that Yahweh was dividing and giving out to the people groups. Alternate translation: "that Yahweh your God has put there to help all people groups" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:20

brought you out of the iron furnace

Moses speaks of Egypt and the hard work the Israelites did there as if it were an oven in which iron is heated and the Israelites were the iron. Alternate translation: "brought you out of the land where people made you do hard work" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

a people of his own inheritance

This is an idiom that can be translated "people who belong only to him." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:21

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Yahweh was angry with me because of you

This refers to when Moses disobeyed what Yahweh told him to do because Moses was angry with the people of Israel. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 1:37. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Yahweh your God is giving to you

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so "you" and "your" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:22

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 4:23

Pay attention to yourselves

"Pay careful attention"

Yahweh your God has forbidden you

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one person, so the words "you" and "your" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:24

Yahweh your God is a devouring fire, a jealous God

Moses compares how Yahweh acts when he is angry to the way a fire destroys things. Alternate translation: "Yahweh your God will severely punish and destroy you like a fire does because he does not want you to worship other gods" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Yahweh your God

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one person, so the word "your" is singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:25

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel.

you beget ... Yahweh your God

The words "you" and "your" are singular here.

beget

become the father of, or become the ancestor of

if you corrupt yourselves

"if you do what is wrong." See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 4:16.

do what is evil in the sight of Yahweh your God, to provoke him to anger

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "you make Yahweh your God angry by doing what he says is evil" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:26

I call heaven and earth to witness

Possible meanings are 1) Moses is calling on all those who live in heaven and earth to be witnesses to what he says or 2) Moses is speaking to heaven and earth as if they are people, and he is calling them to be witnesses to what he says. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

you will not prolong your days

Long days are a metaphor for a long life. Alternate translation: "you will not be able to live a long time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

but you will be completely destroyed

As indicated in 4:27, not every Israelite will be killed. Here "completely destroy" is a generalization and emphasizes that many of the Israelites will die. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "but Yahweh will destroy many of you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:27

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Yahweh will scatter you among the peoples

Moses speaks as if the people were seeds that Yahweh would scatter around a field. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will send you to many different places and force you to live there" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

will lead you away

"will send you" or "will cause your enemies to take you away"

Deuteronomy 4:28

the work of men's hands, wood and stone

Here "men's hands" refers the men themselves, and "the work ... wood and stone" to the idols that they have created. Alternate translation: "the wood and stone idols that men have made" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:29

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel. He speaks as though they were one man, so all instances of "you" and "your" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

But from there

"But when you are in those other nations"

you will seek

The word "you" here is plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

when you search after him

"when you really try to find him" or "when you really try to know him"

with all your heart and with all your soul

Here "heart" and "soul" are metonyms for a person's inner being. These two phrases are used together to mean "completely" or "earnestly." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:30

will have come on

"have happened to"

in those later days

"afterwards" or "then"

listen to his voice

Here "listen" is an idiom that means to hear and obey. Also, "his voice" refers to Yahweh and emphasizes what he says. Alternate translation: "obey what he says" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:31

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 4:32

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel as if they were one man, so all instances of "you" and the command "ask now" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:33

Did ever a people hear the voice of God speaking out of the midst of the fire, as you have heard, and live?

Here the people of Israel are reminded of how Yahweh has spoken to them in an amazing way in the past. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "No other people besides you has heard God speak from the middle of the fire and lived." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

hear the voice of God speaking

Here God is represented by his voice. Alternate translation: "hear God's voice as he spoke" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:34

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel.

by a mighty hand, and by an outstretched arm

Here "a mighty hand" and "an outstretched arm" are metaphors for Yahweh's power. Alternate translation: "by showing his mighty power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

before your eyes

Here "eyes" refer to the whole person. Alternate translation: "in front of you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:35

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel if they were one man, so all instances of "you" and "your" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

To you these things were shown

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh showed you these things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:36

he made you to hear ... made you see

"he made sure you heard ... made sure you saw"

made you ... you heard

Moses speaks as if the people to whom he was speaking were the people he had spoken to at Mount Sinai many years earlier. The people at Mount Sinai were actually the fathers of the people to whom he was speaking these words. Alternate translation: "made your fathers ... your fathers heard" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:37

General Information:

your fathers

This refers to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Jacob's sons.

with his presence, with his great power

"with the great power that comes from his presence" or "with his great power"

Deuteronomy 4:38

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 4:39

General Information:

lay it on your heart

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "remember it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

in heaven above and on the earth beneath

The two phrases "in heaven" and "on the earth" show two extremes and mean "everywhere." Alternate translation: "over everything" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:40

prolong your days

Long days are a metaphor for a long life. See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 4:26. Alternate translation: "be able to live a long time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:41

General Information:

Moses's speech, which began in Deuteronomy 1:6, has finished, and the writer continues the narrative that ended in Deuteronomy 1:5.

Deuteronomy 4:42

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 4:43

Bezer ... Ramoth ... Golan

These are names of cities. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 4:44

This is the law

This refers to the laws Moses will give in the following chapters.

Deuteronomy 4:45

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 4:46

Beth Peor

This is the name of a town in Moab near Mount Pisgah. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 3:29. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Sihon ... Amorites ... Heshbon

"King Sihon ... Amorite people ... town of Heshbon." See how you translated these names in Deuteronomy 1:4.

Deuteronomy 4:47

his land

King Sihon's land

beyond the Jordan toward the east

This refers to the land across the Jordan River, to the east of Israel. Moses was east of the Jordan when he said this. Alternate translation: "from the side of the Jordan River toward the east"

Deuteronomy 4:48

Aroer

This is the name of a city. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 2:36.

the Valley of the Arnon

This is the name of a place. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 2:24.

Mount Siyon ... Mount Hermon

These are different names for the same mountain. The word "Sion" is another spelling of "Sirion" (Deuteronomy 3:9). See how you translated "Mount Hermon" in Deuteronomy 3:8.

Deuteronomy 4:49

eastward beyond the Jordan

This refers to the land across the Jordan River, to the east of Israel. Moses was east of the Jordan when he said this. Alternate translation: "eastward from the side of the Jordan River"

Sea of the Arabah ... Mount Pisgah

See how you translated these names in Deuteronomy 3:17.

Deuteronomy 5

Deuteronomy 5:intro-0

Deuteronomy 05 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each of the commandements in the list of Ten Commandments in 5:7-21 farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. The ULB uses a separate paragraph for each commandment.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Ten commandments

This chapter repeats the material of Exodus 20. It is known as the Ten Commandments.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Metaphors and idioms

Moses uses metaphors and idioms to instruct the people to follow the law of Moses. This is because it is very important to follow these laws. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lawofmoses.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 5:1

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel.

called to all Israel

Here "all" is a generalization. Moses wanted everyone in Israel to hear and obey his words, but his voice was probably not so loud that everyone actually heard him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

that I will speak in your ears today

Here "ears" refers to the whole person. This metaphor emphasizes that the people know what Moses has said to them, so they cannot sin and then say they did not know they were sinning. Alternate translation: "that I will speak to you today" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 5:2

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 5:3

Yahweh did not make this covenant with our ancestors

Possible meanings are 1) Yahweh did not only make a covenant with those who were at Horeb; the covenant was also with the later generations of Israelites or 2) Yahweh did not make this covenant with their distant ancestors, such as, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; instead, this covenant began with the Israelites at Horeb.

Deuteronomy 5:4

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

face to face

Use your language's idiom for two people who are close to each other and looking at each other when they are speaking to each other. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

on the mount

"on the mountain"

Deuteronomy 5:5

at that time

Moses is referring to an event that happened about 40 years earlier.

Deuteronomy 5:6

out of the house of slavery

Here the metonym "house of slavery" refers to Egypt where the people of Israel had been slaves. Alternate translation: "out of the place where you were slaves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 5:7

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people what Yahweh has commanded them. The phrases "you will" and "you will not" are commands. He speaks to the Israelites as if they were one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

You will have no other gods before me

"You must not worship any other gods but me"

Deuteronomy 5:8

that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water below

This can be made more explicit. Alternate translation: "that is in the earth beneath your feet, or that is in the water below the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 5:9

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel as if they were one man, so all instances of "you" and "your" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

You will not bow down to them or serve them

"You will not worship the carved figures or do as they command"

You will not

"Never"

I ... am a jealous God

"I ... want you to worship only me"

Deuteronomy 5:10

showing steadfast love to thousands, to those who love me and keep my commandments

The abstract noun "love" can be stated as the verb "love." Alternate translation: "faithfully loving thousands, those who love me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

to thousands, to those who love me

Some translations read "to a thousand generations of those who love me." The word "thousands" is a metonym for a number too many to count. Alternate translation: "forever, to those who love me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 5:11

General Information:

You will not take the name of Yahweh

"You will not use the name of Yahweh"

You will not

See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 5:9.

in vain

"carelessly" or "without proper respect" or "for wrong purposes"

Yahweh will not hold him guiltless

This can be stated in a positive form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will consider him guilty" or "Yahweh will punish him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublenegatives/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 5:12

General Information:

to keep it holy

"to dedicate it to God"

Deuteronomy 5:13

do all your work

"do all your usual duties"

Deuteronomy 5:14

seventh day

"day 7." Here "seventh" is the ordinal number for seven. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-ordinal/01.md]])

On it you will not do

"On that day never do"

within your gates

Here "gates" is a reference to the city itself. Alternate translation: "within your community" or "inside your city" or "living with you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 5:15

General Information:

You will call to mind

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "You must remember" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

by a mighty hand and by an outstretched arm

Here "a mighty hand" and "an outstretched arm" are metaphors for Yahweh's power. See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 4:34. Alternate translation: "by showing his mighty power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 5:16

General Information:

Deuteronomy 5:17

General Information:

You will not

See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 5:9.

Deuteronomy 5:18

You will not commit adultery

"You will not sleep with anyone other than your spouse"

Deuteronomy 5:19

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 5:20

You will not give false witness against your neighbor

"You will not tell lies about someone"

Deuteronomy 5:21

General Information:

You will not

See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 5:9.

Deuteronomy 5:22

General Information:

Moses continues to remind the people of Israel what Yahweh said.

Deuteronomy 5:23

General Information:

Moses continues to remind the people of Israel what happened in the past.

heard the voice

The word "voice" is a metonym for the sound of the voice or for the person who was speaking. Alternate translation: "heard the sound of the voice" or "heard Yahweh speaking" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 5:24

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 5:25

General Information:

Moses continues to remind the Israelites what the Israelites had said to Moses.

But why should we die?

They were afraid that they would die if Yahweh spoke to them. This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "We are afraid that we will die." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 5:26

For who besides us is there ... have done?

This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "There are no other people besides us ... have done." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

all flesh

This represents all people or living things. Alternate translation: "all people" or "all living beings" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 5:27

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 5:28

when you spoke to me

Here "me" refers to Moses.

Deuteronomy 5:29

Oh, that there were

If your language has an idiom that expresses a strong desire for something, you might want to use it here. Alternate translation: "I would be very happy if there were" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 5:30

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 5:31

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

you will teach them

"you will teach the people of Israel"

Deuteronomy 5:32

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel.

You will keep

Moses is giving a command to the people of Israel.

you will not turn aside to the right hand or to the left

This compares a person disobeying God to a person turning off of the correct path. Alternate translation: "you will not disobey him in any way" or "you will do everything he says" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 5:33

prolong your days

Long days are a metaphor for a long life. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 4:40. Alternate translation: "be able to live a long time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 6

Deuteronomy 6:intro-0

Deuteronomy 06 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's blessings

Yahweh's continued blessing of the people of Israel is dependent upon the people's obedience to the law of Moses. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/bless.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lawofmoses.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Metaphors

There are many metaphors in this chapter. These metaphors describe the greatness of the Promised Land the wholehearted worship that is completely dedicated to Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/promisedland.md]])

Deuteronomy 6:1

General Information:

Moses continues the speech to the people of Israel he began in Deuteronomy 5:1. Beginning in verse 2, he speaks to the people of Israel as if they were one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

might keep

"might obey"

going over the Jordan

"going to the other side of the Jordan River"

Deuteronomy 6:2

to keep

"to obey"

that your days may be prolonged

Long days are a metaphor for a long life. This can be stated in active form. This can be translated similarly to "prolong your days" in Deuteronomy 4:26. Alternate translation: "that I may prolong your days" or "that I may cause you to live a long time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 6:3

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words as if the Israelites are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

listen to them

Here "listen" means to obey, and "them" refers to Yahweh's commandments. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "listen to Yahweh's commandments, statutes, and decrees" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

keep them

"obey them"

a land flowing with milk and honey

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "a land where plenty of milk and honey flow" or "a land that is excellent for cattle and farming" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 6:4

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words as if the Israelites are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Yahweh our God, Yahweh is one

"Our God Yahweh is the one and only God"

Deuteronomy 6:5

with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your might

Here "heart" and "soul" are metonyms for a person's inner being. These three phrases are used together to mean "completely" or "earnestly." See how you translated "with all your heart, with all your soul" in Deuteronomy 4:29. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 6:6

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words as if the Israelites are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

I am commanding you

Moses is speaking God's commandments to the people of Israel.

will be in your heart

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "you must always remember" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 6:7

you will diligently teach ... you will talk

"I command you to diligently teach ... I command you to talk." The reader should understand these as commands.

Deuteronomy 6:8

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words as if the Israelites are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

tie them

This is a metonym for "write these words on parchment, put the parchment in a pouch, and tie the pouch." This metonym in turn may be a metaphor for "obey these words so that it is as if they were physically there." Alternate translation: "tie these words" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

as a sign upon your hand

"as something to make you remember my laws"

they will serve as frontlets

This is a metonym for "write these words on parchment, put the parchment in a pouch, and tie the pouch to your head so it sits." This metonym in turn may be a metaphor for "obey these words so that it is as if they were physically there." Alternate translation: "my words will serve as frontlets"(See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

frontlets

ornaments a person wears on the forehead

Deuteronomy 6:9

You will write

This is a command.

Deuteronomy 6:10

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words as if the Israelites are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

large and very good cities that you did not build

All these cities will belong to the people of Israel when they conquer the people in Canaan.

Deuteronomy 6:11

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 6:12

out of the house of bondage

Here the metonym "house of bondage" refers to Egypt, the place where the people of Israel had been slaves. Alternate translation: "out of the place where you were slaves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 6:13

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words as if the Israelites are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

You will honor Yahweh your God; him you will worship, and you will swear by his name

"It is Yahweh your God and no one else whom you will honor; it is he alone whom you will worship, and it is by his name and only his name that you will swear." Your language may have another way of emphasizing that Yahweh is telling the Israelites not to worship or serve any other god.

you will swear by his name

To swear by the name of Yahweh means to make Yahweh the basis or the power on which the oath is made. The metonym "his name" refers to Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: "you will swear and ask Yahweh to confirm it" or "when you swear you will speak his name" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 6:14

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 6:15

in the midst of you

"who lives among you"

the anger of Yahweh your God will be kindled against you

Moses compares Yahweh's anger to someone starting a fire to destroy things. This can be stated in active form. To kindle anger is a metaphor for becoming very angry. Alternate translation: "Yahweh your God will kindle his anger" or "Yahweh your God will become very angry" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

destroy you from

"destroy you so that there is nothing left of you anywhere on"

Deuteronomy 6:16

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words as if the Israelites are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

You will not test Yahweh

Here "test" means to challenge Yahweh and force him to prove himself.

Massah

This is the name of a place in the desert. The translator may add a footnote that says: "The name 'Massah' means 'testing.'" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 6:17

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 6:18

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words as if the Israelites are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

You will do what is right and good in the sight of Yahweh

This idiom is a command and a blessing. If the Israelites obey Yahweh, they will receive blessings from Yahweh. Alternate translation: "Do what Yahweh says is right and good" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 6:19

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 6:20

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words as if the Israelites are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

What are the covenant decrees ... commanded you

In this question the "covenant decrees" represent their meaning and purpose. Alternate translation: "What do the covenant decrees ... commanded mean to you" or "Why should you obey the covenant decrees ... commanded you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

your son

This refers to the children of the adult people of Israel to whom Moses was speaking Yahweh's words.

Deuteronomy 6:21

with a mighty hand

Here "a mighty hand" refers to Yahweh's power. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 4:34. Alternate translation: "with his mighty power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 6:22

on all his house

Here the metonym "his house" refers to the people of Yahweh. Alternate translation: "on all of his people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

before our eyes

Here the word "eyes" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: "where we could see them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 6:23

might bring us in

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "might bring us into Canaan" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 6:24

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words as if the Israelites are one person. He tells them what they should tell their children about Yahweh's commandments. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

keep

obey at all times and for a long time

Deuteronomy 6:25

before Yahweh

"in the presence of Yahweh" or "where Yahweh can see us"

this will be our righteousness

The word "this" refers to keeping Yahweh's commands. This is a metonym for Yahweh considering them righteous. Alternate translation: "he will consider us righteous" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 7

Deuteronomy 7:intro-0

Deuteronomy 07 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# "You must completely destroy them"

The people of Canaan were to be punished by Yahweh. Yahweh used Israel to punish these nations. If they were not completely destroyed, they would lead Israel into sin. Therefore, they were to be completely destroyed and be shown no mercy. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/mercy.md]])

# Abrahamic Covenant

This chapter references parts of the covenant Yahweh made with Abraham. It also emphasizes Yahweh's faithfulness to this covenant. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/covenant.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/faithful.md]])

Deuteronomy 7:1

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words as if the Israelites are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 7:2

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words as if the Israelites are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

gives them over to you

Moses speaks of victory as if it were a physical object one person could give to another. Alternate translation: "enables you to defeat them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you defeat them

Here "them" refers to the seven nations from Deuteronomy 7:1.

Deuteronomy 7:3

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 7:4

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words as if the Israelites are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

For they will

"If you allow your children to marry the people from the other nations, the people from the other nations will"

So the anger of Yahweh will be kindled against you

Moses compares Yahweh's anger to someone starting a fire. This emphasizes Yahweh's power to destroy what makes him angry. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will kindle his anger against you" or "Then Yahweh will become very angry with you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

against you

The word "you" refers to all the Israelites and so is plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 7:5

you will deal ... You will break ... dash ... cut ... burn

Moses is speaking to all the Israelites here, so these words are all plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 7:6

General Information:

Moses tells the people of Israel Yahweh's words as if the Israelites are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

you are a nation that is set apart

Yahweh choosing the people of Israel to belong to him in a special way is spoken of as if Yahweh set them apart from all other nations. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

that are on the face of the earth

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "that live on the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 7:7

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words. All instances of "you" and "your" are plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

did not set his love upon you

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "did not love you more than he loved others" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 7:8

with a mighty hand

Here "a mighty hand" refers to Yahweh's power. These words also appear in Deuteronomy 4:34. Alternate translation: "with his mighty power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

redeemed you out of the house of bondage

Moses speaks of Yahweh rescuing the people of Israel from being slaves as if Yahweh had paid money to a slave owner. Alternate translation: "rescued you from being slaves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

house of bondage

Here the metonym "house of bondage" refers to Egypt, the place where the people of Israel had been slaves. See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 6:12. Alternate translation: "out of the place where you were slaves"

hand of Pharaoh

Here "hand" means "the control of." Alternate translation: "control of Pharaoh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 7:9

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words as if the Israelites are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

for a thousand generations

"for 1,000 generations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 7:10

repays those who hate him to their face

This idiom means "repays them quickly and openly so that they know God has punished them." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

he will not be lenient on whoever hates him

The words "not be lenient" are an understatement to emphasize that Yahweh will severely punish. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will severely punish everyone who hates him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 7:11

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 7:12

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words. He speaks as if the Israelites are one person in verse 12 and to all of them as a group in verse 13. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 7:13

multiply you

"increase the number of your people"

the fruit of your womb

This is an idiom for "your children." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the fruit of your ground

This is an idiom for "your crops." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the calves of your herds and

"your cattle so they will become many, as will"

Deuteronomy 7:14

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words as if the Israelites are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

You will be blessed more than all other peoples

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I will bless you more than I bless any other people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

there will not be a childless male or a barren female among you or among your livestock

Moses uses a negative statement to emphasize that they all will be able to have children. This may be stated in a positive form. Alternate translation: "All of you will be able to have children and your livestock will be able to reproduce" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

among you ... your livestock

The words "you" and "your" are plural here. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 7:15

take away from you all sickness

"make sure that you do not become ill" or "keep you completely healthy"

none of the evil diseases ... will he put on you, but he will put them on all those who hate you

Moses speaks as if disease were a heavy object that Yahweh would put on top of people. Alternate translation: "he will not make you sick with any of the evil diseases ... but he will make your enemies sick with them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 7:16

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words as if the Israelites are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

You will consume all the peoples

"I command you to completely destroy all the people groups"

your eye will not pity them

This is a command. Moses speaks as if what the eye sees were the eye itself. Alternate translation: "do not allow what you see to cause you to pity them" or "do not pity them because you see that what you are doing is hurting them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

You will not worship

"never worship"

that will be a trap for you

If the people worship other gods, they will be like an animal caught in a hunter's trap, and they will be unable to escape. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 7:17

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words as if the Israelites are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

If you say in your heart

The people should not be afraid even if they notice that the nations are stronger than they are. Alternate translation: "Even if you say in your heart" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

say in your heart

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "think" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

how can I dispossess them?

Moses uses a question to emphasize that the people may feel afraid of the other nations. This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "I do not know how I will be able to dispossess them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

dispossess them

"take their land away from them"

Deuteronomy 7:18

do not be afraid

The people should not be afraid even if they notice that the nations are stronger than they are. Alternate translation: "even then do not be afraid" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

you will call to mind

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "you must remember" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 7:19

that your eyes saw

Here "eyes" represent the whole person. Alternate translation: "that you saw" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

the mighty hand, and the outstretched arm

Here "a mighty hand" and "an outstretched arm" are metaphors for Yahweh's power. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 4:34. Alternate translation: "and the mighty power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 7:20

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words as if the Israelites are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Moreover, Yahweh

"And also, Yahweh"

send the hornet

Possible meanings are 1) God will send actual flying insects that sting people and cause pain, or 2) God will cause the people to become terrified and want to run away.

perish from your presence

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "die so you do not see them anymore" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 7:21

You will not

"Never"

a great and fearsome God

"a great and awesome God" or "a great God who causes the people to fear"

Deuteronomy 7:22

little by little

"slowly"

Deuteronomy 7:23

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words as if the Israelites are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

give you victory over

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "enable you to defeat" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

victory over them

"victory over the armies from the other nations"

he will greatly confuse them

"he will make them so they cannot think clearly"

until they are destroyed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "until you have destroyed them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 7:24

you will make their name perish from under heaven

The Israelites will completely destroy all the people from those nations, and in the future no one will remember them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

stand before you

"stand against you" or "defend themselves against you"

Deuteronomy 7:25

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the people of Israel Yahweh's words. In verse 25 he speaks to the group as a group, so the forms of "you" are plural, but in verse 26 he speaks as if the Israelites are one person, so the forms are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

You will burn

This is a command.

do not covet ... trapped by it

These words add to the instruction to burn the idols.

you will become trapped by it

Even taking the gold or silver on the idols could cause the people to start worshiping them. By doing this they would become like an animal caught by a trap. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "it will become a trap to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

for it is an abomination to Yahweh your God

These words tell why Yahweh wants the people to burn the idols. "do this because Yahweh your God hates it very much"

Deuteronomy 7:26

You will utterly detest and abhor

The words "detest" and "abhor" mean basically the same thing and emphasize the intensity of hatred. Alternate translation: "You will completely hate" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

for it is set apart for destruction

Yahweh cursing something and promising to destroy it is spoken of as if Yahweh were setting the object apart from everything else. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "for Yahweh has set it apart for destruction" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 8

Deuteronomy 8:intro-0

Deuteronomy 08 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Forgetting

This chapter recalls the great things that Yahweh has done for Israel and is about to do for them. This is so they do not forget him and they will continue to worship him. They must remember that Yahweh is the source of their blessings. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/bless.md]])

Deuteronomy 8:1

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the Israelites as if they are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

You must keep ... you may live and multiply, and go in and possess ... your fathers

All instances of "you" and "your" and the verbs are plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 8:2

You will call to mind

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "You must remember" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

forty years

"40 years" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

he might humble you

"he might show you how weak and sinful you are"

to know

"to reveal" or "to show"

what was in your heart

The heart is a symbol of a person's character. Alternate translation: "what kind of people you are" or "how you would behave" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 8:3

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the Israelites as if they are one person. He continues to remind them of what they should "call to mind" (Deuteronomy 8:2). (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

He humbled you

"Yahweh showed you how weak and sinful you are." See how "he might humble you" is translated in Deuteronomy 8:2.

fed you with manna

"gave you manna to eat"

it is not by bread alone that people live

Here "bread" represents all food. Alternate translation: "food is not the only thing people need so they can live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

it is by everything that proceeds out of the mouth of Yahweh that people live

Here "the mouth of Yahweh" is a metonym for the words that Yahweh says. Alternate translation: "people must obey the commands of Yahweh so they can live" or "people must do what Yahweh tells them to do so they can live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 8:4

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the Israelites as if they are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Your clothing ... forty years

This is the last item that they should "call to mind" (Deuteronomy 8:2).

forty years

"40 years" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 8:5

You will think ... God disciplines you

This continues the list of commands that begins in Deuteronomy 8:1.

You will think about in your heart

Here the metonym "heart" represents the thoughts and understanding of a person. Alternate translation: "You will understand" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 8:6

You will keep ... honor him

This continues the list of commands that begins in Deuteronomy 8:1.

Deuteronomy 8:7

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the Israelites as if they are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

a land of

"a land with" or "a land that has"

Deuteronomy 8:8

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 8:9

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the Israelites as if they are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

a land in which you will not eat bread in poverty

This means that they will eat and they will not be in poverty. They will have plenty to eat. The word "bread" is a synecdoche for food in general. This litotes can be translated positively. Alternate translation: "a land where there will be plenty of food for you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

and in which you will not lack anything

This is a generalization: they will lack nothing important. Alternate translation: "and where you will have everything you need" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

stones are made of iron

The stones are full of iron ore. Iron is a very hard metal useful for making swords and plows.

dig copper

"mine copper." Copper is a soft metal useful for making household utensils.

Deuteronomy 8:10

You will eat and be full

"You will have enough food to eat until you are full"

you will bless

"you will praise" or "you will give thanks to"

Deuteronomy 8:11

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the Israelites as if they are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 8:12

Connecting Statement:

This verse describes the first two items of a list of five things that might make the Israelites forget about Yahweh (verse 11): "when you eat and are full" and "when you build good houses."

when you eat and are full

"when you have enough food to eat"

your heart will be lifted up

Here "heart" represents the inner person. To become prideful and no longer obey Yahweh is spoken of as if the person's heart is lifted up. Alternate translation: "you will become prideful and no longer obey Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 8:13

Connecting Statement:

This verse describes the last three of the five things that might cause them to forget Yahweh. The first two are "you eat and are full" and "you build good houses and live in them" (Deuteronomy 8:12). The last three are "when your herds and flocks multiply," "when your silver and gold increase," and "all that you have is multiplied."

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the Israelites as if they are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

your herds and flocks

"your herds of cattle and flocks of sheep and goats"

multiply

increase greatly in number

all that you have is multiplied

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "you have many more things" or "you have many more possessions" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 8:14

Connecting Statement:

This verse contains the first two of three items Moses warns the people to be careful of (Deuteronomy 8:11): that "your heart becomes lifted up" and "you forget Yahweh your God." It then lists the first of four characteristics of Yahweh that they need to remember, that Yahweh "brought you out of the land of Egypt."

your heart becomes lifted up

Here "heart" represents the inner person. To become prideful and no longer obey Yahweh is spoken of as if the person's heart is lifted up. See how you translated a similar phrase in Deuteronomy 8:12. Alternate translation: "you become prideful and no longer obey Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

who brought you out

Moses begins to remind the Israelites of what they know about Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-distinguish/01.md]])

out of the house of bondage

This is a metaphor for the time they were slaves in Egypt. Alternate translation: "out from the place where you were slaves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 8:15

Connecting Statement:

This verse gives the second and third items in the list of characteristics that Moses reminds the Israelites that they must remember about "Yahweh your God" (Deuteronomy 8:14) the first being that he "brought you out of Egypt" (Deuteronomy 8:14). the second that he led them "through the ... wilderness," and the third that he "brought ... water out of the rock."

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the Israelites as if they are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Connecting Statement:

Moses continues to remind the Israelites of what they know about Yahweh (Deuteronomy 8:14). (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-distinguish/01.md]])

who led ... who brought

"Yahweh, who led ... Yahweh, who brought"

fiery serpents

"poisonous snakes"

thirsty ground

This phrase describes the ground as being thirsty just like a person is thirsty when he needs water. Alternate translation: "dry ground" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 8:16

Connecting Statement:

This is the fourth item in the list of characteristics that Moses reminds the Israelites that they must remember about "Yahweh your God" (Deuteronomy 8:14) the first being that he "brought you out of Egypt" (Deuteronomy 8:14), the second that he led them "through the ... wilderness" (Deuteronomy 8:15), and the third that he "brought ... water out of the rock" (Deuteronomy 8:15).

He fed

Moses continues to remind the Israelites of what they know about Yahweh (Deuteronomy 8:14). "Yahweh fed"

to do you good

"to help you" or "because it would be good for you"

Deuteronomy 8:17

Connecting Statement:

This is the third item in the list of things that Yahweh warns the Israelites that they might do (Deuteronomy 8:11), the first being "your heart becomes lifted up" and the second being "you forget Yahweh your God" (Deuteronomy 8:14).

but you may say in your heart

This is the third thing the people might do when their hearts "become lifted up" and they "forget Yahweh" (Deuteronomy 8:14). Here "heart" is a metonym for a person's innermost thoughts. Alternate translation: "but you may think to yourself" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

My power and the might of my hand acquired all this wealth

Here "hand" refers to a man's power or ability. Alternate translation: "I got this wealth because I am so strong and powerful" or "I have acquired all these things by my own power and ability" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 8:18

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the Israelites as if they are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

But you will call to mind

This idiom is a command. Alternate translation: "But remember" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

that he may establish

Possible meanings are 1) "in this way he establishes" or 2) "in this way he is faithful to establish."

that he may

"so he can"

establish

cause to stand or to remain

as it is today

"as he is doing now" or "as he is establishing his covenant now"

Deuteronomy 8:19

walk after other gods

Walking is a metaphor for obeying. Alternate translation: "serve other gods" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

against you ... you will

These instances of "you" are plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

I testify against you

"I warn you" or "I tell you in front of witnesses"

you will surely perish

"you will certainly die"

Deuteronomy 8:20

before you ... you perish ... you would not ... your God

All these instances of "you" and "your" are plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

before you

"in front of you"

would not listen to the voice of Yahweh

Here "the voice of Yahweh" means what Yahweh tells his people to do. Alternate translation: "would not obey Yahweh's commandments" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 9

Deuteronomy 9:intro-0

Deuteronomy 09 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's victory

This chapter assures the Israelites that it is Yahweh who will empower them to conquer the Promised Land. The Israelites will not be strong enough on their own to conquer these other nations. This victory will be Yahweh's. The people did not earn this victory, but it is Yahweh's punishment of these sinful nations. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/promisedland.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]])

# Israel's sin

Yahweh is about to punish the Canaanites for their sin. He also reminds Israel of their sin. This serves as a warning to the people of Israel. If they sin again, Yahweh will punish them too.

Deuteronomy 9:1

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the Israelites as if they are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Hear, Israel

The word "Israel" is a metonym for the people of Israel. Alternate translation: "Listen, people of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

to dispossess

"to take the land from"

fortified up to heaven

This is an exaggeration that emphasizes how frightened the people were because the cities were so large and strong. See how you translated similar words in Deuteronomy 1:28. Alternate translation: "have walls so high it is like they reach up to the heavens" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 9:2

sons of the Anakim

Descendants of the Anak people who were very large and fierce. See how you translated similar words in Deuteronomy 1:28. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Who can stand before the sons of Anak?

This means that the sons of Anak were powerful and people were afraid of them. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "There is no one who can defend himself against the sons of Anak." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 9:3

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the Israelites as if they are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

today

Moses is speaking of the days and weeks beginning on that day, not of the time since the sun had last set.

like a devouring fire

Yahweh is powerful and able to destroy the armies of the other nations. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

subdue them before you

"make them weak so you can control them"

Deuteronomy 9:4

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the Israelites as if they are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Do not say in your heart

Here "in your heart" means "in your thoughts." Alternate translation: "Do not think to yourselves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

has thrust them out

"has driven the other peoples out"

Deuteronomy 9:5

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the Israelites as if they are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

the uprightness of your heart

This is an idiom. "because you always thought and desired the right things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

so that he may make come true the word

Here the metonym "the word" refers to what God has promised. Alternate translation: "so that he may fulfill the promise" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

your ancestors, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob

Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob are the "ancestors" of whom Moses is speaking.

Deuteronomy 9:6

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the Israelites as if they are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

a stiff-necked people

Stubborn people are spoken of as if they have stiff or hard necks that prevent them from turning their heads. Alternate translation: "stubborn people" or "people who refuse to change" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 9:7

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the Israelites as if they are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Remember and do not forget

Moses repeats the same command both positively and negatively to emphasize the importance of remembering. The command is plural. Alternate translation: "Be careful to remember" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

how you provoked Yahweh

Here "you" refers to the Israelites that are present with Moses and also the Israelites of the previous generation. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

you came to this place, you have been rebellious

These instances of "you" are plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

to this place

This refers to the Jordan River Valley.

Deuteronomy 9:8

you provoked ... with you to destroy you

These instances of "you" are plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 9:9

General Information:

Moses is reminding the people of Israel what happened in the past.

the tablets of stone, the tablets of the covenant that Yahweh made with you

Here the second phrase clarifies that "the tablets of stone" are the ones on which God wrote the Ten Commandments. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

forty days and forty nights

"40 days and 40 nights" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 9:10

on them was written everything just like all the words that Yahweh announced to you

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh wrote on them the same words he had said to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Yahweh announced ... out of the middle of the fire

It was as if Yahweh were a person standing in the middle of a fire and speaking with a loud voice.

on the day of the assembly

The abstract noun "assembly" can be expressed as the verb "gather together." Alternate translation: "on the day when you Israelites all came and met together in one place" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 9:11

forty days and forty nights

"40 days and 40 nights" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

the two tablets of stone, the tablets of the covenant

The second phrase clarifies that "the two tablets of stone" are the ones on which God wrote the Ten Commandments. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 9:12

your people ... have corrupted themselves

"your people ... are doing what is wrong." See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 4:16.

They have quickly turned aside out of the path that I commanded them

Moses speaks as if obeying God's commands were walking along a path. Alternate translation: "They have already disobeyed my commands" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 9:13

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 9:14

blot out their name from under heaven

"make their name disappear completely" or "kill them all so no one will ever remember them." See how you translated a similar phrase in Deuteronomy 7:24.

Deuteronomy 9:15

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel what happened in the past.

Deuteronomy 9:16

behold

The word "behold" here shows that Moses was surprised by what he saw.

molded for yourselves a calf

The Israelites of the earlier generation had asked Aaron to make a metal calf so they could worship it. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

You had quickly turned aside out of the path that Yahweh had commanded you

Moses speaks as if obeying God's commands were walking along a path. See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 9:12. Alternate translation: "You had quickly disobeyed what Yahweh had commanded you"

Deuteronomy 9:17

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel about what happened in the past.

I broke them before your eyes

Here "your eyes" is a synecdoche for the people of Israel. Alternate translation: "I broke them right in front of you" or "I broke them where you could see them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 9:18

lay facedown

"lay with my face on the ground." This is a way of showing that Yahweh was great and Moses was not.

forty days and forty nights

"40 days and 40 nights" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 9:19

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel what happened in the past.

I was afraid of the anger and hot displeasure with which Yahweh was angry enough against you to destroy you

The words "anger and hot displeasure" are a metonym for what Yahweh would do because he was angry and displeased. Alternate translation: "Yahweh was angry at you—he was extremely displeased with you—he was angry enough to destroy you, and so I was afraid of what he would do"

Deuteronomy 9:20

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 9:21

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel about what happened in the past.

I took ... burned ... beat ... ground ... threw

Moses probably commanded other men to do the actual work. Alternate translation: "I had people take ... burn ... beat ... grind ... throw"

your sin, the calf that you had made

Here the gold calf itself referred to as their "sin." Alternate translation: "the calf, which you sinfully made" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 9:22

General Information:

Moses continues to remind the people of Israel about what happened in the past.

Taberah ... Massah ... Kibroth Hattaavah

These are names of places that the people of Israel went through while they were in the wilderness. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 9:23

Go up

They were on low land, and the land Yahweh had told them to take was in the hills, so they had to go uphill to get to it.

rebelled against the commandment

The word "commandment" is a metonym for Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: "rebelled against Yahweh; you did not obey the commandment" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

listen to his voice

Here "his voice" means what God had said. Alternate translation: "obey what he said" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 9:24

from the day that I knew you

"from the time I began to lead you." Some translations read "from the day that he knew you," the day that Yahweh first knew them.

Deuteronomy 9:25

General Information:

Moses continues reminding the people of Israel about what happened in the past.

lay facedown before Yahweh

"lay with my face on the ground." See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 9:18.

forty days and forty nights

"40 days and 40 nights" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 9:26

you have redeemed

Moses speaks as if Yahweh had rescued the Israelites by paying money to free them from slavery. Alternate translation: "you have rescued" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

through your greatness

The word "greatness" is a metonym for Yahweh's great power. Alternate translation: "through your great power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

with a mighty hand

Here "a mighty hand" refers to Yahweh's power. See how you translated similar words in Deuteronomy 4:34. Alternate translation: "with your mighty power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 9:27

General Information:

Moses continues praying to Yahweh so that he may not destroy the people of Israel.

Call to mind

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "Remember" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 9:28

so that the land from where you brought us

The words "the land" are a metonym for the people of Egypt. Alternate translation: "so that the people of Egypt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

should say

"can say"

Deuteronomy 9:29

by your great strength and by the display of your power

These phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize the greatness of Yahweh's power that he used to rescue his people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 10

Deuteronomy 10:intro-0

Deuteronomy 10 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is a continuation of the previous chapter.

This chapter focuses on retelling the great things Yahweh has done. It is a continuation of the material from the previous chapter. It is possible that this is a type of sermon or homily, where Moses is giving the people instructions.

Deuteronomy 10:1

General Information:

Moses continues to remind the people of Israel about what happened in the past.

At that time

"After I finished praying"

the first

This refers to the first set of tablets that Moses had broken. Alternate translation: "the first two tablets" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-ordinal/01.md]])

the mountain

This refers to Mount Sinai.

Deuteronomy 10:2

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 10:3

General Information:

Moses continues to remind the people of Israel about what happened in the past.

the first

This refers to the first set of tablets that Moses had broken. Alternate translation: "the first tablets" or "the tablets I had before" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-ordinal/01.md]])

went up the mountain

"went up Mount Sinai"

Deuteronomy 10:4

out of the middle of the fire

It was as if Yahweh were a person standing in the middle of a fire and speaking with a loud voice. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 9:10.

on the day of the assembly

The abstract noun "assembly" can be expressed as the verb "gather together." See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 9:10. Alternate translation: "on the day when you Israelites all came and met together in one place"

Deuteronomy 10:5

General Information:

Moses continues to remind the people of Israel about what happened in the past.

I turned

Here "I" refers to Moses.

came down from the mountain

"came down from Mount Sinai"

in the ark

"in the box" or "in the chest"

Deuteronomy 10:6

General Information:

The writer continues the short account of where the Israelites had traveled. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-background/01.md]])

Beeroth Bene Jaakan ... Moserah

These are names of different places the people of Israel went through while in the wilderness. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Beeroth Bene Jaakan

Translator may add a footnote: "The name 'Beeroth Bene Jaakan' means 'the wells that belonged to the sons of Jaakan' or 'the wells that belonged to the people of Jaakan.'"

there he was buried

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "that is where they buried him" or "the Israelites buried him there" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Eleazar

This is the name of Aaron's son. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 10:7

From there they journeyed ... a land of streams of water

This continues the background information about where the people of Israel traveled. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-background/01.md]])

Gudgodah ... Jotbathah

These are names of different places the people of Israel went through while in the wilderness. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 10:8

General Information:

The writer begins to explain why the tribe of Levi has no inheritance in the land. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-background/01.md]])

to stand before Yahweh to serve him

This is an idiom. "to offer the sacrifices that Yahweh requires" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

in his name

Here "name" refers to authority. Alternate translation: "as representatives of Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

as today

"as they are doing today"

Deuteronomy 10:9

Connecting Statement:

The writer finishes explaining why the tribe of Levi has no inheritance in the land. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-background/01.md]])

no portion nor inheritance of land

The tribe of Levi did not receive a portion of the promised land when they arrived there. The full meaning of this statement may be made explicit. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Yahweh is his inheritance

Yahweh speaks of the special relationship that Aaron and his descendants will have with him as if Yahweh were something that they will inherit. Alternate translation: "Yahweh is what they will have" or "Yahweh will allow them to serve him and he will provide for them through that service"

Yahweh your God

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the word "your" here is singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

spoke to him

"spoke to the tribe of Levi"

Deuteronomy 10:10

General Information:

Moses resumes reminding the people of Israel about what happened in the past.

as at the first time

"first" is the ordinal number for one. Here it refers to the first time Moses went up Mount Sinai to receive the stone tablets from Yahweh. "as I did the first time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-ordinal/01.md]])

forty days and forty nights

"40 days and 40 nights" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

destroy you

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the word "you" here is singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 10:11

possess the land

"take the land" or "take possession of the land"

their ancestors

This refers to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

to give to them

"that I would give to you, their descendants"

Deuteronomy 10:12

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Now, Israel

Here the metonym "Israel" refers to the people of Israel. Alternate translation: "Now, people of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

what does Yahweh your God require of you, except to fear ... with all your soul

Moses uses a question to teach the people of Israel. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Yahweh your God requires you to do no more than this: to fear ... with all your soul." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublenegatives/01.md]])

to walk in all his ways

Moses speaks as if obeying Yahweh were walking on a path. Alternate translation: "to obey all his commands" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

with all your heart and with all your soul

Here "heart" and "soul" are metonyms for a person's inner being. These two phrases are used together to mean "completely" or "earnestly." See how you translated these two phrases in Deuteronomy 4:29. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 10:13

to keep the commandments ... for your own good?

Moses uses a question to teach the people of Israel. This rhetorical question begins with the words "what does Yahweh your God require of you, except to fear ... with all your soul" in verse 12. It can be translated as a statement. "Yahweh your God requires you to do no more than this: to fear ... with all your soul, to keep the commandments ... for your own good." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 10:14

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the Israelites as if they are one person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Behold, to

"Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important: to"

heaven ... earth

These words show two extremes, and are combined to mean that all things everywhere belong to Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

the heaven of heavens

This refers to the highest places in the heavens. Everything in the heavens belong to God.

Deuteronomy 10:15

chose you

Here the word "you" refers to all the Israelites and is plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 10:16

Therefore

"Because of this"

circumcise the foreskin of your heart

The word "foreskin" refers to the fold of skin on a man's private parts that is removed during circumcision. Here Moses is referring to a spiritual circumcision. This means the people must remove the sin from their lives. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

no longer stiffen your necks

The phrase "stiffen your necks" is a metaphor that indicates that the people were stubborn, and God wanted them to stop being stubborn. Alternate translation: "stop being stubborn" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 10:17

God of gods

"the supreme God" or "the only true God"

Lord of masters

"the supreme Lord" or "the greatest Lord"

the fearsome one

"the one who causes people to fear"

Deuteronomy 10:18

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

He executes justice for the fatherless

"Yahweh makes sure that people treat the fatherless justly"

fatherless

These are children whose parents have both died and do not have relatives to care for them.

widow

A true widow is a woman whose husband has died and has no children to care for her in her old age.

Deuteronomy 10:19

Therefore

"Because of this"

Deuteronomy 10:20

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so all instances of "you" and "your" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

him will you worship

"he is the one you must worship"

To him you must cling

To have a good relationship with Yahweh and to completely rely on him is spoken of as if the person were clinging to Yahweh. Alternate translation: "You must rely on him" or "He is the one you must rely on" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

by his name will you swear

To swear by the name of Yahweh means to make Yahweh the basis or the power on which the oath is made. Here "name" represents Yahweh himself. See how you translated a similar phrase in Deuteronomy 6:13. Alternate translation: "you will swear and ask Yahweh to confirm it" or "when you swear you will speak his name" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 10:21

which your eyes have seen

Here "eyes" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: "which you yourselves have seen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

He is your praise

Possible meanings are 1) "He is the one you must praise" or 2) "It is because you worship him that other peoples will praise you"

Deuteronomy 10:22

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel as if they are one man, so "you" and "your" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

went down into Egypt

"traveled south to Egypt" or "went to Egypt"

seventy persons

"70 persons" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

as many as the stars of the heavens

This emphasizes the large number of Israelites that were with Moses. Alternate translation: "more than you can count" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 11

Deuteronomy 11:intro-0

Deuteronomy 11 General Notes

Structure and formatting

# Therefore

This chapter begins with the word "therefore," which looks back to the instructions Moses gave in the previous two chapters.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Eyewitnesses

The instruction that Moses gives and the retelling of the great things Yahweh has done for Israel are very important. This is because the generation entering into the Promised Land did not witness many of these events. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/testimony.md]])

# Covenant

This chapter is included in the covenant God made with Moses, even though it is not explicitly said. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/covenant.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 11:1

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

always keep

"always obey"

Deuteronomy 11:2

who have not known nor have they seen

"who have not experienced"

his mighty hand, or his outstretched arm

Here "mighty hand" and "outstretched arm" are metaphors for Yahweh's power. See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 4:34. Alternate translation: "or his mighty power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 11:3

in the midst of Egypt

"in Egypt"

to all his land

Here "land" represents the people. Alternate translation: "to all his people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 11:4

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the adult Israelites who were old enough to see what God did in Egypt.

Neither did they see what he did

"Neither did your children see what Yahweh did"

the army of Egypt

"the Egyptian soldiers"

they pursued after you

Here "you" means the Israelites who were alive about 40 years earlier.

Deuteronomy 11:5

to this place

This means the plain of the Jordan River Valley where Moses is speaking to them before they cross over into Canaan.

Deuteronomy 11:6

General Information:

Moses continues to remind the adults to teach their children God's mighty deeds.

Dathan and Abiram, the sons of Eliab

Moses is referring to an event in the past when Dathan and Abiram rebelled against Moses and Aaron. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Dathan ... Abiram ... Eliab

These are names of men. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

son of Reuben

"descendant of Reuben"

earth opened its mouth and swallowed them up

Yahweh causing the land to split open so that the people fell in is spoken of as if the land had a mouth and the ability to swallow people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

every living thing that followed them

This refers to their servants and animals.

in the middle of all Israel

This means all the people of Israel witnessed what happened to Dathan, Abiram, their families, and their possessions.

Deuteronomy 11:7

But your eyes have seen

Here "eyes" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "But you have seen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 11:8

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

possess the land

"take the land"

where you are going over to possess it

The phrase "are going over" is used because the people of Israel will have to cross the Jordan River to enter into Canaan.

Deuteronomy 11:9

prolong your days

a land flowing with milk and honey

This is an idiom. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 6:3. Alternate translation: "a land where plenty of milk and honey flow" or "a land that is excellent for cattle and farming" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 11:10

watered it with your foot

Possible meanings are 1) "foot" is a metonym that represents the hard work of walking to carry water to the fields. Alternate translation: "worked hard to water it" or 2) they would use their feet to turn a water wheel that supplied water to the fields. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

garden of herbs

"vegetable garden" or "garden of vegetables"

Deuteronomy 11:11

drinks water of the rain of the heavens

The land receiving and absorbing a lot of rain is spoken of as if the land were drinking the water. Alternate translation: "the rain from the sky gives it plenty of water" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 11:12

the eyes of Yahweh your God are always upon it

Here "eyes" represents attention and care. Alternate translation: "Yahweh your God is always watching over it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

from the beginning of the year to the end of the year

Here the two extremes "beginning" and "end" are used together to mean the entire year. Alternate translation: "continuously throughout the entire year" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 11:13

It will happen, if

This means that what Yahweh promises will happen if the Israelites obey his commands.

that I command

Here "I" refers to Moses.

with all your heart and with all your soul

The idiom "with all your heart" means "completely" and "with ... soul" means "with all your being." These two phrases have similar meanings. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 4:29. Alternate translation: "with all your being" or "with all your energy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 11:14

I will give the rain of your land in its season

"I will cause it to rain on your land in the proper season"

I will give

Here "I" refers to Yahweh. This can be stated in the third person. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will give" or "He will give"

the former rain and the latter rain

This refers to rain at the beginning of the sowing season and rain for maturing the crops for harvest. Alternate translation: "the autumn rain and spring rain" or "the rain in the right seasons"

Deuteronomy 11:15

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 11:16

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Pay attention to yourselves

"Be careful" or "Beware"

so that your heart is not deceived

Here "heart" represents a person's desires or thoughts. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "so that your desires do not deceive you" or "so that you do not deceive yourself" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

you turn aside and worship other gods

Rejecting Yahweh and worshiping other gods is spoken of as if the person would physically turn and go in a different direction away from Yahweh. Alternate translation: "you start worshiping other gods" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 11:17

so that the anger of Yahweh is not kindled against you

God becoming angry is spoken of as if it were a fire that were starting. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "so that Yahweh does not become angry with you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

so that he does not shut up the heavens so that there will be no rain, and the land will not yield its fruit

God causing no rain to fall from the sky is spoken of as if he were closing the sky. Alternate translation: "so that he does not cause the rain to stop falling from the sky so that crops will not grow in the land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 11:18

lay up these words of mine in your heart and soul

A person always thinking about and considering what Moses commands is spoken of as if the heart and soul were a container and Moses's words were the content to fill the container. Alternate translation: "be very careful to remember these words that I am saying to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

these words of mine

"these commands that I have given you"

your heart and soul

Here "heart" and "soul" represent a person's mind or thoughts. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

bind them

"tie these words." This is a metonym that represents a person writing the words on a parchment, putting the parchment in a pouch, and tying the pouch. This metonymy in turn may be a metaphor meaning the people must be careful to obey Moses's commands. See how you translated similar phrases in Deuteronomy 6:8. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

as a sign on your hand

"as something to make you remember my laws"

let them be as frontlets between your eyes

"let my words be as as frontlets between your eyes." This is a metonym that represents a person writing Moses' words on parchement, putting the parchement in a pouch, and tying the pouch so it sits between his eyes. This metonymy in turn may be a metaphor that means the person must be careful to obey all of Moses' commands. See how you translated similar phrases in Deuteronomy 6:8. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

frontlets

ornaments a person wears on the forehead

Deuteronomy 11:19

when you sit in your house, when you walk on the road, when you lie down, and when you get up

Using the different places "in your house" and "on the road," and the opposites "when you lie down" and "get up," represent anywhere, anytime. The people of Israel were to discuss God's commandments and teach them to their children anytime and anywhere. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 11:20

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

You will write them on the doorposts of your house and on your city gates

See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 6:9.

Deuteronomy 11:21

that your days and the days of your children may be multiplied

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that Yahweh may cause you and your children to live a long time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

to your ancestors

This refers to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

to give them for as long as the heavens are above the earth

This compares how long the people could stay in the land to how long the sky will exist above the earth. This is a way of saying "forever." Alternate translation: "to give them as a possession forever" or "to allow them to live there forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 11:22

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

For if you diligently keep all these commandments that I am commanding you, so as to do them

"For if you are careful to do everything that I have commanded you"

walk in all his ways

How Yahweh wants a person to live and behave is spoken of as if they are Yahweh's ways or roads. A person obeying Yahweh is spoken of as if he were walking on Yahweh's ways or roads. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

to cling to him

To have a good relationship with Yahweh and to completely rely on him is spoken of as if the person were clinging to Yahweh. Alternate translation: "to rely on him" or "to have a good relationship with him" Look at how similar words are translated in Deuteronomy 10:20. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 11:23

all these nations from before you, and you will dispossess nations

Here "nations" represent the people groups already living in Canaan. Alternate translation: "all of these people groups from before you, and you will take the land from people groups" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

larger and mightier than yourselves

Although Israel's army is smaller and weaker than the people groups living in Canaan, Yahweh will enable the people of Israel to defeat them.

Deuteronomy 11:24

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Every place where the sole of your foot will tread

Here "the sole of your foot" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "Every place you go" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

from the river, the Euphrates River

"from the Euphrates River"

Deuteronomy 11:25

No man will be able to stand before you

The phrase "stand before you" is an idiom. Alternate translation: "No one will be able to stop you" or "No one will be able to oppose you"

Yahweh your God will lay the fear of you and the terror of you upon all the land that you tread on

Yahweh causing the people to be very afraid is spoken of as if fear and terror were an object that he will place on the people. Alternate translation: "Yahweh your God will cause the people in every place you go to be very afraid of you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the fear of you and the terror of you

The words "fear" and "terror" mean the same thing and emphasize the intensity of fear. Alternate translation: "a terrible fear of you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

upon all the land that you tread on

Here "the land" is a metonym for all the people in the land. Alternate translation: "upon all the people in every place you go" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 11:26

General Information:

Here Moses summarizes the two options the people of Israel could choose. They could choose to obey and receive God's blessing or they could choose to disobey and receive God's punishment.

Look

"Pay attention"

I set before you today a blessing and a curse

Allowing the people to choose whether they want God to bless them or curse them is spoken of as if a blessing and a curse were objects that Moses is setting in front of them. Alternate translation: "Today you must choose whether God will bless you or curse you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 11:27

the blessing, if you obey

The abstract noun "blessing" can be translated with a verb. Alternate translation: "God will bless you if you obey" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 11:28

but turn aside from the way that I command you today, to go after other gods

The commands of Yahweh that Moses is telling the people are spoken of as if they were God's way or road. To not obey God's commands is spoken of as if people physically were to turn in another direction away from Yahweh to follow other gods. Alternate translation: "but stop obeying what I command you today, in order to worship other gods" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

other gods that you have not known

This refers to the gods that other people groups worship. The Israelites know Yahweh because he has revealed himself to them and they have experienced his power.

Deuteronomy 11:29

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

you will set the blessing on Mount Gerizim, and the curse on Mount Ebal

The blessing and the curse are spoken of as if they were objects that someone will set on the mountains. Alternate translation: "some of you must stand on top of Mount Gerazim and proclaim what will cause Yahweh to bless you, and the others must stand on top of Mount Ebal and proclaim what will cause Yahweh to curse you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Mount Gerizim ... Mount Ebal

These are names of mountains on the west side of the Jordan River. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 11:30

Are they not beyond the Jordan ... Moreh?

The Israelites are on the eastern side of the Jordan River. Moses uses a question to remind the people where these mountains are located. This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "As you know, they are beyond the Jordan ... Moreh." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

beyond the Jordan

"on the west side of the Jordan River"

west of the western road

"in the west"

over against Gilgal

"near Gilgal" This may not be the same place as the city near Jericho. Moses may be referring to a place that is near Shechem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

oaks of Moreh

These are sacred trees near Gilgal. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 11:31

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Deuteronomy 11:32

all the statutes and the decrees

These are the statutes and decrees Moses will give in Deuteronomy 12-26.

I set before you today

This does not mean these are new. Moses is reviewing the same statutes and decrees that he gave 40 years earlier.

I set before you

God's statutes and decrees, which Moses is telling the people, are spoken of as if they were objects that Moses is setting before the people. Alternate translation: "I am giving to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 12

Deuteronomy 12:intro-0

Deuteronomy 12 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Covenant with Moses

This chapter is a continuation of the covenant Yahweh made with Moses. The reasons for these food restrictions are not always known.(See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/covenant.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

# Israel and Yahweh

In the ancient Near East, when nations conquered other nations, they often added the gods of the conquered nation into their collection of gods they worshiped. It was rare to worship only one God. Israel was to be known for worshiping Yahweh and Yahweh alone. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/falsegod.md]])

Deuteronomy 12:1

General Information:

Moses is still talking to the people of Israel.

you will keep

"you must obey"

all the days that you live on the earth

The phrase "live on the earth" is an idiom that means as long as a person lives. Alternate translation: "for as long as you live" (See:[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 12:2

You will surely destroy

"You must destroy"

the nations that you will dispossess

Here "nations" represents the people groups that live in Canaan. Alternate translation: "the people groups whose land you will take" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 12:3

General Information:

Moses is still talking to the people of Israel.

You must break down their altars

"you must pull apart the altars of those nations" or "you must destroy the altars of those nations"

dash in pieces

"break into pieces" or "shatter"

destroy their name

Here "their name" represents "the memory of them." Alternate translation: "destroy them so completely that no one will remember them" or "destroy anything that represents these false gods" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

that place

This refers to each place where the nations worshiped their gods.

Deuteronomy 12:4

You will not worship Yahweh your God like that

"You should not worship Yahweh your God like those nations worshiped their gods"

Deuteronomy 12:5

the place that Yahweh your God will choose out of all your tribes to put his name

Here "his name" refers to God himself. Yahweh will choose one location where he will live and people will come to worship him there. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

it is there that you will go

They will go to worship where God decides.

Deuteronomy 12:6

the offerings presented by your hand

Here "hand" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "the offerings that you present" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

your offerings for vows, your freewill offerings

"your offerings to fulfill a vow, your voluntary offerings." These are types of offerings.

the firstborn of your herds and flocks

God requires that the people give him every firstborn male of their livestock.

Deuteronomy 12:7

It is there

This refers to the place that Yahweh will choose for the children of Israel to worship.

rejoice about everything that you have put your hand to

Here "put your hand to" represents the whole person and work that he has done. Alternate translation: "rejoice about all the work you have done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 12:8

You will not do all the things that we are doing here today

"You will not do as we are doing here today." This means that they would worship in the promised land differently than the way they were worshiping at that moment.

now everyone is doing whatever is right in his own eyes

The eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: "everyone is doing what he considers to be right" or "now everyone is doing what he judges to be right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 12:9

to the rest

The abstract noun "the rest" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "to the land where you will rest" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

to the inheritance that Yahweh your God is giving you

The land that God is giving to the people of Israel is spoken of as if it were a possession that a father leaves as an inheritance for his children. Alternate translation: "to the land that Yahweh your God is giving to you as a permanent possession" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 12:10

live in the land

This refers to the land of Canaan.

in the land that Yahweh your God is causing you to inherit

God giving the land of Canaan to the people of Israel is spoken of as if he were a father giving an inheritance to his children. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he will give you rest from all your enemies round about

"he will give you peace from all your enemies around you"

Deuteronomy 12:11

the offerings presented by your hand

Here "hand" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "the offerings that you present" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

all your choice offerings for vows

"all your voluntary offerings to fulfill vows"

Deuteronomy 12:12

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

rejoice before Yahweh

"rejoice in the presence of Yahweh"

the Levites who are within your gate

Here "gates" is a reference to the city itself. Alternate translation: "the Levites who live inside your city" or "the Levites living with you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

because he has no portion or inheritance among you

The fact that Yahweh would not give any of the land to the Levites is spoken of as if a father were not giving them an inheritance. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he has no portion

Here "he" refers to Levi. Levi represents all of his descendants. Alternate translation: "they have no portion" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 12:13

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Pay attention to yourself

"Be careful"

every place that you see

"any place that pleases you" or "wherever you want"

Deuteronomy 12:14

but it is at the place that Yahweh will choose

The burnt offerings are to be made at the tabernacle. Yahweh himself would choose where the tabernacle would be located.

Deuteronomy 12:15

However, you may kill and eat animals within all your gates

The people could only kill animals as sacrifices in the place that Yahweh would choose. They could kill animals for food anywhere they wanted. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

within all your gates

Here "gates" represents the whole city. Alternate translation: "inside your city" or "at your homes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

the unclean ... persons

A person who is not acceptable for God's purposes is spoken of as if the person were physically unclean. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the clean persons

A person who is acceptable for God's purposes is spoken of as if the person were physically clean. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the gazelle and the deer

These are wild animals with long thin legs that can run quickly. Alternate translation: "the antelope and the deer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 12:16

But you will not eat the blood

The blood represents life and God did not allow the people to eat the blood along with the meat. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 12:17

General Information:

Moses describes to the people all the special offerings and sacrifices that are to be made at the tabernacle.

within your gates

Here "gates" represents the whole city. Alternate translation: "inside your city" or "at your homes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

nor that of the offering you present with your hand

Here "hand" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "nor that of any offering which you bring to Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 12:18

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Israel.

you will eat them

"you will eat your offerings"

before Yahweh

"in the presence of Yahweh

the Levite who is within your gates

Here "gate" represents the whole city Alternate translation: "any Levite who lives inside your city" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

everything to which you put your hand

Deuteronomy 12:19

Pay attention to yourself

"Be careful"

that you do not forsake

"that you take good care of"

Deuteronomy 12:20

enlarges your borders

"enlarges your territory" or "gives you even more land"

you say, 'I will eat flesh,' because of your desire to eat meat

This is a quotation within a quotation. This direct quotation can be stated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: "and you decide that you want to eat meat" (See:[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotesinquotes/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotations/01.md]])

as your soul desires

Here "soul" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: "as you want" or "as you crave" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 12:21

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

chooses to put his name

Here "name" refers to God himself. Yahweh would choose a place where he will live and the people will come to worship him. Alternate translation: "chooses to dwell" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

within your gates

Here "gates" represents the whole city." Alternate translation: "inside your city" or "within your community" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

as your soul desires

Here "soul" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: "as you desire" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 12:22

Like the gazelle and the deer are eaten

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "Just like you eat the gazelle and the deer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

gazelle and the deer

These are wild animals with long thin legs that can run quickly. See how you translated these in Deuteronomy 12:15.

the unclean ... persons

A person who is not acceptable for God's purposes is spoken of as if the person were physically unclean. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the clean persons

A person who is acceptable for God's purposes is spoken of as if the person were physically clean. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 12:23

the blood is the life

Here the way that blood sustains life is spoken of as if the blood were life itself. Alternate translation: "the blood sustains life" or "the blood causes animals and people to live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you will not eat the life with the meat

The word "life" here represents the blood that sustains life. Alternate translation: "You will not eat what sustains life with the meat" or "you will not eat the blood, which sustains life, with the meat" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 12:24

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 12:25

what is right in the eyes of Yahweh

The eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: "what is right in Yahweh's judgment" or "what Yahweh considers to be right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 12:26

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 12:27

the blood of your sacrifices will be poured out

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the priest will pour out the blood of the sacrifice" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

you will eat the flesh

God's law specifies which parts of the animal are for the burnt offering, which parts are for the priest and which parts are for the offerer to eat. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "you will eat some of the meat" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 12:28

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Observe and listen to all these words that I command you

"Carefully listen to and obey everything that I am commanding you"

that it may go well with you and with your children after you

Here "children" means all of their descendants. Alternate translation: "that you and your descendants may prosper" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

when you do what is good and right

The words "good" and "right" have similar meanings and emphasize the importance of right behavior. Alternate translation: "when you do what is right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

what is good and right in the eyes of Yahweh

The eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: "what is good and right in Yahweh's judgment" or "what Yahweh considers to be good and right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 12:29

cuts off the nations

Yahweh destroying the people groups in Canaan is spoken of as if he were cutting them off, as one would cut a piece of cloth or cut a branch from a tree. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the nations

Here "nations" represents the people living in Canaan. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

when you go in to dispossess them, and you dispossess them

"when you take everything from them"

Deuteronomy 12:30

pay attention to yourself

"be careful"

that you are not trapped into following them ... trapped into investigating their gods, into asking

A person learning about and worshiping other gods is spoken of as if they are caught in a hunter's trap. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that you do not act like them ... that you do try to learn about their gods, asking" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

not trapped into following them

The Israelites worshiping idols as the people groups of Canaan worship idols is spoken of as if the Israelites were following behind the other people groups. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

after they are destroyed from before you

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "after Yahweh destroys them before you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

into asking, 'How do these nations worship their gods? I will do the same.'

This is a quotation within a quotation. A direct quotation can be stated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: "into asking about how those people groups worship their gods so that you can do the same." (See:[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotesinquotes/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotations/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 12:31

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 12:32

Do not add to it or take away from it

They are not to create more laws nor are they to ignore laws that God has given them.

Deuteronomy 13

Deuteronomy 13:intro-0

Deuteronomy 13 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Worshiping other gods

The people were required to listen to Yahweh's prophets unless they were encouraging the people to worship other gods. The punishment for anyone leading the people to worship other gods was death. These instructions were to keep Israel's worship of Yahweh pure. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/falsegod.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/purify.md]])

Deuteronomy 13:1

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

If there arises among you

"If there appears among you" or "If someone among you claims to be"

a dreamer of dreams

This is someone who receives messages from God through dreams.

a sign or a wonder

These two words have similar meanings and refer to various miracles. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 13:2

comes about

"takes place" or "happens"

of which he spoke to you and said, 'Let us go after other gods, that you have not known, and let us worship them,'

This can be translated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: "and he tells you to serve and worship other gods which you have not known," (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotations/01.md]])

Let us go after other gods

Worshiping other gods is spoken of as if they were going after or following other gods. Alternate translation: "Let us follow other gods" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

go after other gods, that you have not known

The phrase "gods, that you have not known" refers to the gods that other people groups worship. The Israelites know Yahweh because he has revealed himself to them and they have experienced his power.

Deuteronomy 13:3

do not listen to the words of that prophet, or to that dreamer of dreams

"do not listen to what that prophet say nor to what the dreamer of dreams says"

with all your heart and with all your soul

Here "heart" and "soul" are metonyms for a person's inner being. These two phrases are used together to mean "completely" or "earnestly." See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 4:29. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 13:4

You will walk after Yahweh your God

Obeying and worshiping Yahweh is spoken of as if the people were walking after or following Yahweh. Alternate translation: "You will obey Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

obey his voice

Here "voice" represents what Yahweh says. Alternate translation: "obey what he says" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

cling to him

To have a good relationship with Yahweh and to completely rely on him is spoken of as if the person were clinging to Yahweh. Alternate translation: "rely on him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 13:5

will be put to death

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "you must kill" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

he has spoken rebellion

The abstract noun "rebellion" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "he has tried to make you rebel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

who redeemed you out of the house of bondage

Yahweh rescuing the people of Israel from being slaves in Egypt is spoken of as if Yahweh paid money to redeem his people out of slavery. Alternate translation: "who rescued you out of the place where you were slaves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the house of bondage

Here "house of bondage" represents Egypt where the people of Yahweh had been slaves. Alternate translation: "Egypt where you were slaves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

draw you out of the way in which Yahweh your God commanded you to walk

How God wants a person to live or behave is spoken of as if it were a way or road on which God wants his people to walk. A person trying to cause someone else to stop obeying God is spoken of as if the person were trying to get the other person to stop walking on God's way or road. Alternate translation: "make you disobey what Yahweh your God commanded" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

So put away the evil from among you

Here "the evil" refers to the evil person or the evil behavior. This nominal adjective can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "So you must remove from among the people of Israel the person who does this evil thing" or "So you must kill this evil person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 13:6

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

wife of your bosom

A bosom is a person's chest. This is a idiom that he holds close to his chest, which means he loves and cherishes her. Alternate translation: "wife you love" or "wife you dearly embrace" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

friend who is to you like your own soul

Here "soul" represents the person's life. This means the person cares for his friend as much as he cares for his own life. Alternate translation: "your dearest friend" or "a friend you love as much as you love yourself" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 13:7

any of the gods of the peoples ... other end of the earth.'

This is the end of a quotation within a quotation that begins with the words "secretly entices you and says, 'Let us go and worship ... neither you nor your ancestors—" in verse 6. It can be translated as an indirect quotation. "secretly entices you and says that you should go and worship ... neither you nor your ancestors—any of the gods of the peoples ... other end of the earth." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotations/01.md]])

that are round about you

"that are around you"

from the one end of the earth to the other end of the earth

Here the reference to the two extremes of the earth means "everywhere on earth." Alternate translation: "throughout the entire earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 13:8

You must not give in to him

"Do not agree to what he wants"

you must not permit your eye to pity him

Here "your eye" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: "you msut not look at him with pity" or "you must not show him mercy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

you must not spare him or conceal him

"you must not show him mercy or hide from others what he has done"

Deuteronomy 13:9

your hand will be the first on him to put him to death

This means that he was to throw the first stone at the guilty person. The word "hand" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "you must be the first to strike him to kill him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

the hand of all the people

Here "hand" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "the other people will join you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 13:10

he has tried to draw you away from Yahweh

"to turn you away from Yahweh." A person trying to cause someone else to stop obeying Yahweh is spoken of as if the person were trying to cause someone to physically turn around and leave Yahweh. Alternate translation: "he has tried to make you disobey Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

out of the house of bondage

Here "house of bondage" represents Egypt where the people of Yahweh had been slaves. Alternate translation: "out from the place where you were slaves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 13:11

All Israel will hear and fear

It is implied that when the people hear about the person who was executed, they will be afraid to act like he did. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 13:12

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Deuteronomy 13:13

Some wicked fellows have gone out from among you

The phrase "from among you" means that these wicked men were Israelites who lived in their communities.

have drawn away the inhabitants of their city and said, 'Let us go and worship other gods that you have not known.'

This can be translated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: "have persuaded those who live in their city to go and worship other gods that they have not known." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotations/01.md]])

have drawn away the inhabitants of their city

A person causing someone else to stop obeying Yahweh is spoken of as if the person has caused the other person to physically turn and leave Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 13:14

examine the evidence, make search, and investigate it thoroughly

All of these phrases mean basically the same thing. Moses is emphasizing that they must carefully find out what truly happened at the city. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

that such an abominable thing has been done among you

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that the people of the city have done such a terrible thing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 13:15

with the edge of the sword

Here "edge" represents the whole sword. Alternate translation: "with your swords" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 13:16

all the spoil

"all the plunder." This refers to the possessions and treasures that an army collects after winning a battle.

heap of ruins

"pile of ruins"

it must never be built again

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "no one must ever rebuild the city" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 13:17

None of those things set apart for destruction must stick in your hand

Yahweh cursing something and promising to destroy it is spoken of as if Yahweh were setting the object apart from other things. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "You must not keep any of the things God has commanded you to destroy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

must stick in your hand

This is a way of saying a person keeps something. Alternate translation: "must you keep" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Yahweh will turn from the fierceness of his anger

Yahweh no longer being angry is spoken of as his anger were an object and Yahweh physically turns away from it. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will stop being angry" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

to your fathers

Here "fathers" means ancestors or forefathers.

Deuteronomy 13:18

you are listening to the voice of Yahweh

Here "voice" represents what Yahweh says. Alternate translation: "you are obeying what Yahweh says" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

that which is right in the eyes of Yahweh your God

The eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: "that which is right in Yahweh's judgment" or "that which Yahweh your God considers to be right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 14

Deuteronomy 14:intro-0

Deuteronomy 14 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Law of Moses

This chapter is part of the law of Moses, which is part of the covenant Yahweh made with Moses. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lawofmoses.md]])

# Clean animals

There are animals which the law considered to be clean and unclean. The people were not allowed to eat the unclean animals. Scholars are uncertain about the reasons for the animals to be considered to be clean or unclean. The result of these food restrictions was a nation that was different than the nations surrounding it. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/clean.md]])

Deuteronomy 14:1

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

You are the people

All occurrences of "you" refer to the people of Israel. Moses was included as a part of the people. Alternate translation: "We are the people"

Do not cut yourselves, nor shave any part of your face for the dead

These were ways the people groups living in Canaan showed that they were grieving over people who had died. Moses is telling the people of Israel not to act like them. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

nor shave any part of your face

"nor shave the front of your head"

Deuteronomy 14:2

you are a nation ... has chosen you

All occurrences of "you" refer to the people of Israel. Moses was included as a part of the people. Alternate translation: "we are a nation ... has chosen us"

For you are a nation ... surface of the earth

See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 7:6.

you are a nation that is set apart to Yahweh your God

Yahweh choosing the people of Israel to belong to him in a special way is spoken of as if Yahweh set them apart from all other nations. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh your God has set you apart from other nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Yahweh has chosen you to be a people for his own possession

This means basically the same thing as the first part of the sentence. They both mean that the people of Israel belong to Yahweh in a special way. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

a people for his own possession

"a people for his treasured possession" or "his people"

more than all peoples that are on the surface of the earth

"out of all the people groups in the world"

Deuteronomy 14:3

You must not eat any abominable thing

The people of Israel were not supposed to eat anything that God said was unfit for eating.

Deuteronomy 14:4

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 14:5

the deer, the gazelle, the roebuck

These are all types of deer. If your language does not have a word for each animal it can be translated as "all kinds of deer."

the gazelle

This is wild animal with long thin legs that can run quickly. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 12:15.

the roebuck

a type of deer (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

ibex, and the antelope

Both of these are types of antelope. If your language does not have a word for each animal it can be translated as "all kinds of antelope."

ibex

a type of antelope (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 14:6

that parts the hoof

"that have split hooves." This is a hoof that is split into two parts instead of being one whole.

chews the cud

This means the animal brings its food up from its stomach and chews it again.

Deuteronomy 14:7

rabbit

This is a small animal with long ears that usually lives in holes in the ground. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

rock badger

This is a small animal that lives in rocky places. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

they are unclean to you

Something Yahweh says is unfit for his people to eat is spoken of as if it were physically unclean. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 14:8

The pig is unclean to you

Something Yahweh says is unfit for his people to eat is spoken of as if it were physically unclean. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 14:9

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Of these things that are in water you may eat

"You may eat these kinds of animals that live in the water"

fins

the thin, flat part which the fish uses to move through the water

scales

the small plates that cover the body of the fish

Deuteronomy 14:10

they are unclean to you

Something Yahweh says is unfit for his people to eat is spoken of as if it were physically unclean. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 14:11

All clean birds

An animal that God says is fit for his people to eat is spoken of as if the animal were physically clean. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 14:12

eagle ... vulture ... osprey

These are birds that are either awake at night or feed on small animals and dead animals. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 14:13

red kite ... black kite ... falcon

These are birds that are either awake at night or feed on small animals and dead animals. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 14:14

raven

A bird that either is awake at night or feeds on small animals and dead animals. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 14:15

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 14:16

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 14:17

cormorant

A bird that is either awake at night or feeds on small animals and dead animals. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 14:18

stork ... heron, the hoopoe

These are types of birds that eat small animals and lizards. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

the bat

animal with wings and furry body which is awake mainly at night and eats insects and rodents

Deuteronomy 14:19

All winged, swarming things

This means all flying insects that move in large groups.

are unclean to you

Animals that God says are unfit for his people to eat are spoken of as if the animals are physically unclean. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

they must not be eaten

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "you must not eat them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 14:20

all clean flying things

Animals that God says are fit for his people to eat are spoken of as if the animals are physically clean. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 14:21

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

anything that dies of itself

This means an animal that dies a natural death.

For you are a nation that is set apart to Yahweh your God

Yahweh choosing the people of Israel to belong to him in a special way is spoken of as if Yahweh set them apart from all other nations. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "For Yahweh your God has set you apart from other nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 14:22

tithe all the yield of your seed

This means they are to give one part out of every ten equal parts from their crops.

year after year

"every year"

Deuteronomy 14:23

before Yahweh

"in the presence of Yahweh"

Deuteronomy 14:24

carry it

Here "it" refers to the tithe of crops and livestock.

Deuteronomy 14:25

you will convert the offering into money

"you will sell your offering for money"

tie up the money in your hand, and go

"put the money in a bag and take it with you"

Deuteronomy 14:26

for whatever you desire

"for whatever you want"

before Yahweh

"in the presence of Yahweh"

Deuteronomy 14:27

do not forsake him

"make sure to take care of him"

for he has no portion nor inheritance with you

The tribe of Levi did not receive a portion of land as their inheritance. Their share of the inheritance was the honor of serving Yahweh as his priests. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

no portion nor inheritance with you

God not giving land to the Levites is spoken of as if he were not giving them an inheritance. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 14:28

every three years you will present all the tithe of your produce

Once every 3 years the Israelites were to store their tithes within their own towns so that it would be used to provide for the Levites, orphans, widows and foreigners. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

within your gates

Here "gates" represents the entire city or town. Alternate translation: "inside your city" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 14:29

because he has no portion nor inheritance with you

God not giving any land to the Levites is spoken of as if he were not giving them an inheritance. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

fatherless

These are children whose parents have both died and do not have relatives to care for them.

widow

This is a woman whose husband has died and has no children to care for her in her old age.

in all the work of your hand that you do

Here "hand" represents the whole person. This refers to the work that someone does. Alternate translation: "in all the work you do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 15

Deuteronomy 15:intro-0

Deuteronomy 15 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Forgiveness of Debt

This chapter gives instructions about the necessity to regularly forgive debt among their fellow countryman. This prevented people from being trapped by their poverty.

# Justice

As Yahweh's chosen nation, there must be justice in Israel. This chapter gives commands that encouraged justice by protecting the poor, servants and slaves. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/elect.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/justice.md]])

Deuteronomy 15:1

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

seven years

"7 years" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

you must cancel debts

"forgive every thing which people still owe you"

Deuteronomy 15:2

This is the manner of the release

"This is how to cancel the debts"

creditor

a person who lends money to other people

his neighbor or his brother

The words "neighbor" and "brother" share similar meanings and emphasize the close relationship that they have with their fellow Israelites. Alternate translation: "his fellow Israelite" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

because Yahweh's cancellation of debts has been proclaimed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "because Yahweh has required that you cancel debts" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 15:3

your hand must release

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "you must not demand it back" or "you must not require repayment" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 15:4

no poor

The nominal adjective "poor" can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "no poor people" or "no one who is poor" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

the land that he gives

This refers to the land of Canaan.

he gives you as an inheritance to possess

The land that Yahweh is giving to his people is spoken of as if it were an inheritance that Yahweh is giving them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 15:5

if only you diligently listen to the voice of Yahweh your God

Here the metonym "voice of Yahweh" refers to what Yahweh himself says. Alternate translation: "if only you are careful to obey what Yahweh your God says" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 15:6

you will lend ... you will not borrow

The word "money" is understood. You can make the full meaning of this statement clear. Alternate translation: "you will lend money ... you will not borrow money" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

to many nations ... over many nations

Here "nations" represents the people. Alternate translation: "to the people of many nations ... over the people of many nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

you will rule over many nations, but they will not rule over you

Here "rule over" means to be financially superior. This means basically the same thing as the previous part of the sentence. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 15:7

If there is a poor man

Here "man" means a person in general. Alternate translation: "If there is a poor person"

one of your brothers

"one of your fellow Israelites"

within any of your gates

Here "gates" represents the entire city or town. Alternate translation: "within any of your towns" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

you must not harden your heart

Being stubborn is spoken of as if the person hardened their heart. Alternate translation: "you must not be stubborn" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

nor shut your hand from your poor brother

A person who refuses to provide for a poor person is spoken of as if he were shutting his hand so that the poor person cannot get anything from him. Alternate translation: "nor refuse to help your fellow Israelite who is poor" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 15:8

but you must surely open your hand to him

A person who helps a poor person is spoken of as if he were opening his hand to him. Alternate translation: "but you must surely help him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 15:9

not to have a wicked thought in your heart, saying

Here "heart" represents a person's mind. Alternate translation: "not to think a wicked thought" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

The seventh year, the year of release, is near

It is implied that because the year of release will happen soon, the person thinking this will be reluctant to help a poor person since it is likely that the poor person will not have to pay him back. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

The seventh year

The word "seventh" is the ordinal number for seven. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-ordinal/01.md]])

the year of release

"the year to cancel debts"

is near

Something that will happen soon is spoken of as if it were physically near. Alternate translation: "will happen soon" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

so that you will not be stingy in regard to your poor brother and give him nothing

"so that you are not stubborn and refuse to give anything to your fellow Israelite"

cry out to Yahweh

"shout to Yahweh for help"

it would be sin for you

"Yahweh will consider what you have done to be sinful"

Deuteronomy 15:10

your heart must not be sorry

Here "heart" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "you should not regret it" or "you should be happy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

in all that you put your hand to

Here "put your hand to" represents the whole person and work that he has done. Alternate translation: "in all that you do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 15:11

For the poor will never cease to exist in the land

"For there will always be poor people in the land"

For the poor

The nominal adjective "the poor" can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "For poor people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

I command you and say, 'You must surely open your hand ... in your land.'

This has a quotation within a quotation. A direct quotation can be stated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: "I command you to open your hand ... in your land" (See:[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotesinquotes/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotations/01.md]])

open your hand to your brother, to your needy, and to your poor

A person who is willing to help someone else is spoken of as if his hand were open. Alternate translation: "help your fellow Israelite, those who are needy, and those who are poor" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

your brother, to your needy, and to your poor

The words "needy" and "poor" mean basically the same thing and emphasize that these are people who cannot help themselves. Alternate translation: "help your fellow Israelites who cannot help themselves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 15:12

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

If your brother

Here "brother" means an Israelite in general, whether a male or female. Alternate translation: "If a fellow Israelite" or "If a fellow Hebrew" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-gendernotations/01.md]])

is sold to you

If a person could not repay their debts, they sometimes sold themselves into slavery to pay what they owed. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "sell themselves to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

six years

"6 years" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

seventh year

"year 7." This "seventh" is the ordinal number for seven. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-ordinal/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 15:13

you must not let him go empty-handed

A person who has no possessions to provide for himself or his family is spoken of as if his hands were empty. Alternate translation: "you must not let him leave without having anything to provide for himself and his family" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 15:14

liberally provide for him

"generously give to him"

Deuteronomy 15:15

remember that you were a slave

Here "you" includes their ancestors that were slaves for many years. Alternate translation: "remember that your people were once slaves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

that Yahweh your God redeemed you

Yahweh rescuing the people of Israel from being slaves in Egypt is spoken of as if Yahweh paid money to redeem his people from slavery. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 15:16

if he says to you, 'I will not go away from you,'

This has a quotation within a quotation. A direct quotation can be stated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: "if he says to you that he will not go away from you," (See:[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotesinquotes/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotations/01.md]])

your house

Here "house" represents the person's family. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 15:17

then you must take an awl and thrust it through his ear to a door

"then you will place his head near a wooden door frame in your house, and then put the point of the awl through his earlobe into the wood"

awl

a sharp, pointed tool used to make a hole (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

for life

"until the end of his life" or "until he dies"

Deuteronomy 15:18

It must not seem difficult for you to let him go free from you

This means that they are not resent it when they let someone go free. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Be pleased when you let him go free" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

given twice the value of a hired person

This means the owner only had to pay have the amount for this slave to work than he would for a person he hired to do a job.

a hired person

This is a person who works for pay.

Deuteronomy 15:19

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

shear

to cut off wool or hair

Deuteronomy 15:20

before Yahweh

"in the presence of Yahweh"

year by year

"each year" or "every year"

Deuteronomy 15:21

lame

crippled or physically disabled

Deuteronomy 15:22

within your gates

Here "gates" represents the city or town. Alternate translation: "within your community" or "inside your city" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

the unclean ... persons

A person who is not acceptable for God's purposes is spoken of as if the person were physically unclean. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the clean persons

A person who is acceptable for God's purposes is spoken of as if the person were physically clean. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

a gazelle or a deer

These are wild animals with long thin legs that can run quickly. See how you translated these in Deuteronomy 12:15.

Deuteronomy 15:23

you must not eat its blood

"you must not consume its blood." Yahweh did not allow Israelites to consume blood because the blood represented life (Deuteronomy 12:23).

Deuteronomy 16

Deuteronomy 16:intro-0

Deuteronomy 16 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Festivals

This chapter retells the specific commands about how to celebrate the Passover. This recalled the Passover in Egypt, which was an important event in the formation of the nation of Israel. There are several other important festivals described in this chapter. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/passover.md]])

# Life in Israel

As Yahweh's chosen nation, there must be justice in Israel. Also, Yahweh must be the only God in Israel. He alone is to be worshiped. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/elect.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/justice.md]])

Deuteronomy 16:1

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

month of Abib

This is the first month of the Hebrew calendar. It marks when God brought the people of Israel out of Egypt. It is during the last part of March and the first part April on Western calendars. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-hebrewmonths/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

keep the Passover

It is implied by "keep the Passover" that they would celebrate and eat the Passover meal. Alternate translation: "celebrate the Passover meal" or "eat the Passover meal" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 16:2

You will sacrifice the Passover

Here "Passover" represents the animal that is sacrificed for the Passover celebration. Alternate translation: For the Passover you will offer a sacrifice" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 16:3

with it

Here "it" refers to the animal they will sacrifice and eat.

seven days

"7 days" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

the bread of affliction

This was the name of the unleavened bread. The full meaning can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: "this bread will remind you of how much you suffered while in Egypt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

out of the land of Egypt in haste

The people had to leave Egypt so quickly that they did not have enough time to make bread with yeast in it. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "out of the land of Egypt in such hurry you did not have time to make bread with yeast in it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Do this all the days of your life

"Do this as long as you live"

call to mind

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "remember" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 16:4

No yeast must be seen among you

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "You must not have any yeast among you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

within all your borders

"inside all your territory" or "in all your land"

first day

This "first" is the ordinal number for one. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-ordinal/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 16:5

You may not sacrifice the Passover

Here "Passover" represents the animal that will be sacrificed. Alternate translation: "For the Passover you may not sacrifice the animal" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

within any of your city gates

Here "gates" represents the cities or towns. Alternate translation: "within any of your towns" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 16:6

at the going down of the sun

"at sunset"

Deuteronomy 16:7

You must roast it

"You must cook it"

Deuteronomy 16:8

six days

"6 days" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

seventh day

"seventh" is the ordinal number for seven. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-ordinal/01.md]])

solemn assembly

"special gathering"

Deuteronomy 16:9

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

count seven weeks

"count 7 weeks" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

from the time you begin to put the sickle to the standing grain

The phrase "put the sickle to the standing grain" is a way of referring to the beginning of harvest time. Alternate translation: "from the time that you begin harvesting the grain" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

sickle

a tool with a curved blade used for cutting grass, grain, and vines (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 16:10

with the contribution of a freewill offering from your hand that you will give

Here "hand" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "and you will give your free will offering" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

according as Yahweh your God has blessed you

"according to the harvest which Yahweh your God has given you" This means that the people will base how much they offer on how much they harvested that year.

Deuteronomy 16:11

your son, your daughter, your male servant, your female servant, the Levite

These do not refer to a specific person. It means these types of people in general. Alternate translation: "your sons, your daughters, your male servants, your females servants, any Levite" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

within your city gates

Here "gates" represents cities or towns. Alternate translation: "within your towns" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widow

This refers to these types of people in general. Alternate translation: "all foreigners, orphans, and widows" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

fatherless

These are children whose parents have both died and do not have relatives to care for them.

widow

This means a woman whose husband has died and has no children to care for her in her old age.

Deuteronomy 16:12

call to mind

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "remember" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 16:13

Festival of Shelters

Other names for this festival are "Feast of Tabernacles," "Festival of Booths," and "Feast of the Ingathering." During harvest time, farmers would set up temporary shelters in the field. This festival took place after the last harvest of the year.

seven days

"7 days" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 16:14

within your gates

Here the word "gates" represents cities or towns. Alternate translation: "within your towns" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 16:15

the festival

"the Festival of Shelters"

all the work of your hands

Here "hands" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "all the work you do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 16:16

all your males must appear before Yahweh

Females were allowed, but Yahweh did not require that they come. The men could represent their whole families.

must appear before Yahweh

"must come and stand in the presence of Yahweh"

No one will appear before Yahweh empty-handed

"They will not come before Yahweh without an offering" These two negative phrases together have a positive meaning. Alternate translation: "Every person who comes before Yahweh must bring an offering" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 16:17

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 16:18

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

You must make judges

"You must appoint judges" or "You must choose judges"

within all your city gates

Here "gates" represents a city or town. Alternate translation: "within all your towns" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

they will be taken

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "you will choose them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

judge the people with righteous judgment

"judge the people fairly"

Deuteronomy 16:19

You must not take justice away by force

Moses speaks of justice as if it were a physical object that a strong person can violently pull away from a weak person. This can be stated in positive form. Your language might have one word that means "use force to take away." Alternate translation: "You must not be unfair when you judge" or "You must make just decisions" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

You must not

Here "You" refers to those who will be appointed as judges and officers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and perverts the words of the righteous

Taking a bribe is spoken of as if the bribe were corrupting the people. Alternate translation: "for even a wise man who accepts a bribe will become blind, and even a righteous man who accepts a bribe will tell lies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise

A wise person who accepts a bribe so that he does not speak against something evil is spoken of as if he becomes blind. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the wise

The nominal adjective "the wise" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "a wise person" or "wise people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

perverts the words of the righteous

The nominal adjective "righteous" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "causes a righteous person to lie" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 16:20

follow after justice, after justice alone

justice is spoken of as a person who is walking. A person who is doing what is fair and just is spoken of as if he was following close behindjustice. Alternate translation: "do only what is fair" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

inherit the land that Yahweh your God is giving you

Receiving the land that God is giving to the people is spoken of as if the people are inheriting the land from God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 16:21

You must not

Here "You" refers to all the people of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 16:22

any sacred stone pillar, which Yahweh your God hates

The phrase "which Yahweh your God hates" is giving more information about the sacred stone pillar. Alternate translation: "any sacred stone pillar because Yahweh your God hates them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-distinguish/01.md]])

sacred stone pillar

This refers to pillars that are idols used to worship false gods.

Deuteronomy 17

Deuteronomy 17:intro-0

Deuteronomy 17 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Witnesses

In the ancient Near East, it was common for a person to be punished by the testimony of a single person, especially if this was an important person. The rules in this chapter give protection to people, especially the poor by requiring multiple witnesses. This allowed justice to be done. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/testimony.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/justice.md]])

# King

Israel was not to have a king because Yahweh was their king. Knowing the sinfulness of the people, Yahweh anticipated that one day Israel would have a king. Therefore, this passage gives commands about their king prophetically. They were not allowed to collect chariots because they were a sign of earthly power and the king was to trust in Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sign.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 17:1

General Information:

Moses is still speaking to the people of Israel.

in which is any blemish

"that has a blemish" or "that has something wrong with it." The animal is to appear healthy without any deformity.

that would be an abomination to Yahweh

"that would be disgusting to Yahweh"

Deuteronomy 17:2

If there is found

This may be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "If you find someone" or "If there is anyone" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

within any of your city gates

Here "city gates" represents cities or towns. Alternate translation: "living in one of your cities" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

what is evil in the sight of Yahweh your God

The sight of Yahweh represents Yahweh's judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: "something that Yahweh your God thinks is evil" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

transgresses his covenant

"disobeys his covenant"

Deuteronomy 17:3

any of the host of heaven

"any of the army of heaven." Here this refers to the lights we see in the sky, including the sun, moon, stars. They are called the host because there are so many of them, just as armies have many soldiers. Alternate translation: "any of the multitude of things in the sky" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 17:4

if you are told about this

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "if someone tells you about this disobedient act" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

you must make a careful investigation

The abstract noun "investigation" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "you must carefully investigate what happened" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

such an abomination has been done in Israel

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "someone has done such a horrible thing in Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 17:5

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 17:6

At the mouth of two witnesses, or three witnesses, will he who must die be put to death

Here "the mouth" represents the testimony of a witness. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "If two or three witnesses speak against the person, then you must execute him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

but at the mouth of only one witness he must not be put to death

Here "the mouth" represents the testimony of a witness. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "but if only one person speaks against him, then you must not execute him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 17:7

The hand of the witnesses must be the first to put him to death, and afterward the hand of all the people

Here "hand" represents the entire group of witnesses. Alternate translation: "The witnesses themselves must be the first ones to throw stones. Then all the people will execute the person by throwing stones at him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

you will remove the evil from among you

The nominal adjective "the evil" can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "you must remove from among the Israelites this person who does this evil thing" or "you must execute this evil person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 17:8

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

If a matter arises

"If there is a matter" or "If there is a situation"

one person's right and another person's right

A "right" is a person's legal authority to do something or to possess something.

Deuteronomy 17:9

you will seek their advice

The abstract noun "advice" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "you will ask them to advise you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

they will give you the verdict

The abstract noun "verdict" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "they will decide on the matter" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 17:10

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 17:11

Follow the law they teach you

A person obeying what the priests and judge decide is spoken of as if the person were physically following behind the law. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "You must obey what the judge and priests decide about the matter" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Do not turn aside from what they tell you, to the right hand or to the left

A person not doing exactly what the judge and priests say is spoken of as if he were turning off the correct path. This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "Do not disobey anything they tell you" or "Do everything they say" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 17:12

in not listening to the priest ... or in not listening to the judge

"and does not obey the priest ... or does not obey the judge"

you will put away the evil from Israel

The nominal adjective "the evil" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "you must remove from among the Israelites the person who does this evil thing" or "you must execute this evil person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 17:13

All the people must hear and fear, and act arrogantly no more

It is implied that when the people hear about the person who was executed for acting arrogantly, they will be afraid and not act arrogantly themselves. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 17:14

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

When you have come to the land

The word "come to" can be translated as "gone to" or "entered." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-go/01.md]])

then you say, 'I will set a king over myself, like all the nations that are round about me,'

This has a quotation within a quotation. A direct quotation can be stated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: "then you decide that you want a king just like the peoples of the nations that surround you have kings," (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotesinquotes/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotations/01.md]])

I will set a king over myself ... round about me

Moses has the people speaking as if they were one person. It may be more natural to translate this with plural pronouns. Alternate translation: "We will set over ourselves ... round about us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

set a king over myself

Giving someone the authority to rule as king in Israel is spoken of as if the people were setting the person in a place above them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

all the nations that are round about me

"all the surrounding nations"

all the nations

Here "nations" represent the people who live in the nations. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 17:15

someone from among your brothers

"one of your fellow Israelites"

a foreigner, who is not your brother, over yourself

Both of these phrases mean the same thing. They both refer to a person who is not an Israelite. Yahweh is emphasizing that the people of Israel should not let a foreigner rule over them. Alternate translation: "a foreigner over yourself" or "a non-Israelite over yourself" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 17:16

for Yahweh had said to you, 'You will never return that way again.'

This has a quotation within a quotation. A direct quotation can be stated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: "for Yahweh had said that you must never return to Egypt again." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotesinquotes/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotations/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 17:17

so that his heart does not turn away

Here "heart" refers to the whole person. An Israelite king who marries foreign wives and starts to worship their false gods is spoken of as if his heart were to turn away from Yahweh. Alternate translation: "so that they do not cause him to stop honoring Yahweh and start worshiping false gods" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 17:18

When he sits on the throne of his kingdom

Here "throne" represents the person's power and authority as king. To sit on the throne means to become king. Alternate translation: "When he becomes king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

he must write for himself in a scroll a copy of this law

Possible meanings are 1) "he must personally write in a scroll a copy of this law for himself" or 2) "he must appoint someone to write in a scroll a copy of this law for him"

from the law that is before the priests, who are Levites

"from the copy of the law that the Levitical priests keep"

Deuteronomy 17:19

so as to keep all the words of this law and these statutes, to observe them

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize that the king must obey all of God's law. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 17:20

so that his heart is not lifted up above his brothers

Here "his heart" refers to the whole person. A king becoming arrogant is spoken of as if his heart were lifted up. Alternate translation: "so that he does not become arrogant" or "so that he does not think he is better than his fellow Israelites" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

so that he does not turn away from the commandments, to the right hand or to the left

A king disobeying God's commands is spoken of as if a person were to turn off the correct path. This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "so that he does not disobey any of the commandments" or "so that he obeys all of the commandments" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

prolong his days

Long days is a metaphor for a long life. See how you translated a similar phrase "prolong your days" in Deuteronomy 4:26. Alternate translation: "be able to live a long time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 18

Deuteronomy 18:intro-0

Deuteronomy 18 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Levites

As Yahweh's chosen priests, the priest were to trust in Yahweh to provide for them. He provided for them through the rest of the Israelites. Yahweh was their inheritance. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/elect.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/priest.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/inherit.md]])

# Messiah

This chapter is one of the first prophecies about the promised, coming Messiah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/promise.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]])

Deuteronomy 18:1

General Information:

Moses continues telling the people what Yahweh wants them to do.

will have no portion nor inheritance with Israel

The Levites not receiving any land from Yahweh is spoken of as if they would not receive an inheritance. Alternate translation: "will not possess any of the people's land" or "will not receive any of the land that the Israelites will possess" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

no portion

"no part" or "no share"

Deuteronomy 18:2

among their brothers

"among the other tribes of Israel" or "among the other Israelites"

Yahweh is their inheritance

Moses speaks of the great honor that Aaron and his descendants will have by serving Yahweh as priests as if Yahweh were something that they will inherit. See how you translated a similar phrase in Deuteronomy 10:9. Alternate translation: "instead, they will have Yahweh" or "instead, Yahweh will allow them to serve him and he will provide for them through that service" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 18:3

the inner parts

This is the stomach and intestines.

Deuteronomy 18:4

you must give him

"you must give to the priest"

Deuteronomy 18:5

has chosen him

Here "him" represents all the Levites. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

to stand to serve in the name of Yahweh

Here "the name of Yahweh" stands for Yahweh himself and his authority. Alternate translation: "to be his special servants" or "to serve as a representative of Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

him and his sons forever

Here "him" represents all the Levites. Alternate translation: "the Levites and their descendants forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 18:6

desires with all his soul

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "strongly desires" or "really wants" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 18:7

then he must serve in the name of Yahweh his God

Here "name" represents Yahweh and his authority. Alternate translation: "then he must serve Yahweh his God as a priest" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

who stand there before Yahweh

"who serve in the sanctuary in the presence of Yahweh"

Deuteronomy 18:8

his family's inheritance

This is what the priest would inherit from his father.

Deuteronomy 18:9

When you have come

Here "come" can be translated as "gone" or "entered." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-go/01.md]])

you must not learn to observe the abominations of those nations

God hates the religious activities of the people in the surrounding nations. He considers them to be terribly evil. Here "nations" represents the people. Alternate translation: "you must not do the terrible things that the people of the other nations do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 18:10

There must not be found among you anyone

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "There must not be anyone among you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

anyone who uses divination ... tells fortunes ... reads signs found in a cup ... engages in witchcraft

These are different ways of practicing magic. God has forbidden every kind of magic. If you do not have a word for all of these activities, it can be stated more generally. Alternate translation: "anyone who uses magic to try to find out what will happen in the future, to cast spells"

reads signs found in a cup

One who reads the shapes and figures in a cup and who predicts future events from what they can see

Deuteronomy 18:11

any charmer ... anyone who conjurs up spirits ... one who casts spells ... who talks with spirits of the dead

These are phrases for people who practice different kinds of magic. God has forbidden every kind of magic. If you do not have a word for all of these types of people, you can translate more generally. Alternate translation: "anyone who uses magic to cast spells, or to talk to the spirits of dead people"

Deuteronomy 18:12

driving them out

Here "them" refers to the people already living in Canaan.

Deuteronomy 18:13

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 18:14

For these nations

Here "nations" stands for the people groups that live in Canaan. Alternate translation: "For these people groups" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

these nations that you will dispossess

"these nations whose land you will take"

Deuteronomy 18:15

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Yahweh your God will raise up for you a prophet

Yahweh appointing a person to be a prophet is spoken of as if Yahweh would raise or lift the person up. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

one of your brothers

"one of your fellow Israelites"

Deuteronomy 18:16

This is what you asked

Here "you" refers to the Israelites at Mount Horeb about 40 years earlier.

at Horeb on the day of the assembly

"on the day you gathered together at Horeb"

on the day of the assembly, saying, 'Let us not hear again the voice of Yahweh our God, nor see this great fire anymore, or we will die.'

This has a quotation within a quotation. A direct quotation can be stated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: "on the day of the assembly when you said that you did not want to hear the voice of Yahweh our God, nor see his great fire anymore, because you were afraid that you would die." (See:[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotesinquotes/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotations/01.md]])

Let us not hear again the voice of Yahweh our God

Here Yahweh is represented by his "voice" to emphasize what he says. Alternate translation: "Let us not hear Yahweh our God speak again" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 18:17

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 18:18

I will raise up a prophet for them

Yahweh appointing a person to be a prophet is spoken of as if Yahweh would raise or lift the person up. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

from among their brothers

"from among their fellow Israelites"

I will put my words in his mouth

Yahweh telling the prophet what to say is spoken of as if Yahweh would put words in the prophet's mouth. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

speak to them

"speak to the people of Israel"

Deuteronomy 18:19

does not listen to the words of mine that he speaks in my name

Here "my name" represents Yahweh and his authority. Alternate translation: "does not listen to him when he speaks my message" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

require it of him

"I will hold him responsible" or "I will punish him." Here "him" refers to the person who does not listen to the prophet.

Deuteronomy 18:20

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking.

who speaks a word arrogantly

"who dares to speak a message" or "who is arrogant enough to speak a message"

in my name

Here "my name" refers to Yahweh himself and his authority. Alternate translation: "for me" or "with my authority" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

a word

"a message"

who speaks in the name of other gods

Here "name" represents the gods themselves or their authority. This means the prophet claims that false gods told him to speak a certain message. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 18:21

This is what you must say in your heart

Here "heart" represents the thoughts of a person. Alternate translation: "You ask yourself" or "You must say to yourself" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

How will we recognize a message that Yahweh has not spoken?

"How will we know if the message that the prophet speaks is from Yahweh?" Here "we" refers to the people of Israel.

Deuteronomy 18:22

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking.

a prophet speaks in the name of Yahweh

Here "name of Yahweh" refers to Yahweh himself and his authority. Alternate translation: "a prophet claims to speak for me" or "a prophet claims to speak with my authority" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the prophet has spoken it arrogantly

"the prophet has spoken this message without my authority"

Deuteronomy 19

Deuteronomy 19:intro-0

Deuteronomy 19 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Justice

Another way justice would be maintained in Israel was by avoiding revenge killings. This chapter describes the establishment of special cities to protect those fleeing from revenge killings. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/justice.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/avenge.md]])

# Witnesses

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# Law of retaliation

The chapter describes a famous law, often called the "law of retaliation." It is said, an "eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot." This does not mean a person who causes another person to lose their eye must have their own eye removed as punishment. This law is not about making all things equal. Instead, it is about limiting the punishment or the ability of a person to retaliate. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 19:1

General Information:

Moses is still speaking to the people of Israel.

When Yahweh your God cuts off the nations

Yahweh destroying the people who live in Canaan is spoken of as if he were cutting them off, as one would cut a piece of cloth or cut a branch from a tree. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the nations

This represents the people groups that live in Canaan. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

those whose land Yahweh your God is giving you

"those nations who were living in the land that Yahweh your God is giving you"

come after them

"take the land from those nations" or "possess the land after those nations are gone"

Deuteronomy 19:2

select three cities

"choose 3 cities" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 19:3

You must build a road

They were to build roads so that it would be easy for people to travel to these cities. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

divide the borders of your land into three parts

It is implied that one of the cities they choose must be in each part of the land. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

the land that Yahweh your God is causing you to inherit

Yahweh giving the land to the people of Israel is spoken of as if the people are inheriting the land. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 19:4

This is the instruction

"These are the instructions" or "These are the directions"

concerning the one who kills another

The word "person" is understood. Alternate translation: "for a person who kills another person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

and flees from there

"and who escapes to one of these cities" or "who runs to one of these cities"

the one who unintentionally kills his neighbor

Here "neighbor" means any person in general. Alternate translation: "any person who kills another person by accident"

without hating him at the time of the accident

"but did not hate his neighbor before he killed him." This implies there was no cause for him to kill his neighbor purposely. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 19:5

For example, if a man goes into the forest ... and kills him

The author gives an example of how someone might accidentally kill his neighbor.

the ax head slips off of the handle

The iron part of the ax comes off the wooden handle.

strikes his neighbor and kills him

This means the head of the ax hits and kills the neighbor.

to one of these cities and save his life

It is implied that the family of the dead man may try to get revenge. The man who killed him can flee to one of these cities, and the people there will protect him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 19:6

General Information:

Moses is still speaking to the people of Israel.

the avenger of blood

Here "blood" represents the person who was killed. An "avenger of blood" is a close relative of the person who was killed. This relative is responsible for punishing the murderer. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the one who took a life

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "the one who killed the other person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

in the heat of his anger

Someone being very angry is spoken of as if anger were something that could become hot. Alternate translation: "and being very angry" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

strike him and kill him

"And the blood avenger strikes and kills the one who had killed the other person"

though that man did not deserve to die, since he had not hated his neighbor in the past

"though that man did not deserve to die since he accidentally killed the other person and was not his enemy, and he had not planned to hurt the man"

Deuteronomy 19:7

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 19:8

General Information:

Moses is still speaking to the people of Israel.

enlarges your borders

"gives you more land to possess"

as he has sworn to your ancestors to do

"like he promised your ancestors that he would do"

Deuteronomy 19:9

if you keep all these commandments to do them

"if you obey all these commandments"

to always walk in his ways

How God wants a person to live or behave is spoken of as if it were Yahweh's way or road. A person who obeys Yahweh is spoken of as if he were walking on Yahweh's way or road. Alternate translation: "to always obey him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

then you must add three more cities for yourself

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "then you must choose three more cities for a person to escape to if he accidentally kills someone" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

besides these three

"in addition to the three cities you already established" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 19:10

Do this so that innocent blood is not shed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Do this so that family members do not kill an innocent person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

innocent blood is not shed

Here "blood" represents a person's life. To shed blood means to kill a person. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "no one kills an innocent person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

in the midst of the land

"in the land" or "in the territory"

Yahweh your God is giving you for as an inheritance

The land that Yahweh is giving the people of Israel is spoken of as if it were an inheritance. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

so that no bloodguilt may be on you

The people of Israel being guilty for a person dying because they did not build a city where he would be safe from the "blood avenger" is spoken of as if the guilt of his death is on them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

bloodguilt

Here "blood" represents a life and "bloodguilt" refers to the guilt someone has for killing an innocent person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

may be on you

This means that if a family member kills an innocent person, then all the people of Israel will be guilty for letting that happen.

Deuteronomy 19:11

his neighbor

Here "neighbor" means any person in general.

lies in wait for him

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "hides and waits in order to kill him" or "plans to kill him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

rises up against him

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "attacks him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

mortally wounds him so that he dies

"hurts him so that he dies" or "and kills him"

Deuteronomy 19:12

must send and bring him back from there

"must send someone to get him and bring him back from the city that he escaped to"

turn him over

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "give him over" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

into the hand of the responsible relative

Here "the hand" represents the authority of someone. Alternate translation: "to the authority of the responsible relative" or "to the responsible relative" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the responsible relative

This is the relative of the person who was killed. This relative is responsible for punishing the murderer.

he may die

"the murderer may die" or "the responsible relative may execute the murderer"

Deuteronomy 19:13

Your eye must not pity him

Here "your eye" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "Do not show him mercy" or "Do not feel sorry for him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

you must eradicate the bloodguilt from Israel

Here "bloodguilt" represents the guilt for murdering an innocent person. Alternate translation: "you must execute the murderer so that the people of Israel will not be guilty for the death of an innocent person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

from Israel

Here "Israel" refers to the people of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 19:14

General Information:

Moses is still speaking to the people of Israel.

You must not remove your neighbor's landmark

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "You must not take land away from your neighbor by moving the markers on the borders of his land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

they set in place

"that your ancestors placed"

a long time ago

Moses means that when the people have lived in the land for a long time, they should not move the borders that their ancestors made when they first took the land.

in your inheritance that you will inherit, in the land that Yahweh your God is giving you to possess

Yahweh giving the land to the people of Israel is spoken of as if they were inheriting the land. Alternate translation: "in the land that Yahweh your God is giving to you to possess" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 19:15

General Information:

Moses is still speaking to the people of Israel.

One sole witness

"A single witness" or "Only one witness"

must not rise up against a man

Here "rise up" means to stand up in court and speak against someone to a judge. Alternate translation: "must not speak to the judges about something bad that a man did" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

in any matter that he sins

"anytime that a man does something bad"

at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses

Here "mouth" represents what the witnesses say. It is implied that there must be at least two or three witnesses. Alternate translation: "at the testimony of at least two or three people" or "based on what at least two or three people say happened" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

must any matter be confirmed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "will you confirm that the man is guilty" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 19:16

Suppose that

"When" or "If"

an unrighteous witness

"a witness who intends to harm someone else"

rises up against any man to testify against him of wrongdoing

Here "rise up" means to stand up in court and speak against someone to a judge. Alternate translation: "tells the judge that a man sinned in order to get the man in trouble" or "tells the judge that a man sinned, so the judge will punish him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 19:17

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel.

the ones between whom the controversy exists

"the ones who disagree with one another"

must stand before Yahweh, before the priests and the judges

This means the two persons must go to the sanctuary where Yahweh's presence dwells. At the sanctuary are priests and judges who have the authority to make legal decisions for Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

stand before Yahweh, before the priests and the judges

The phrase "stand before" is an idiom. It means to go to someone with authority and let him make a legal decision about a matter. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 19:18

The judges must make diligent inquiries

"The judges must work very hard to determine what happened"

Deuteronomy 19:19

then must you do to him, as he had wished to do to his brother

"then you must punish the false witness in the same way as he wanted you to punish the other man"

you will remove the evil from among you

The nominal adjective "the evil" can be stated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "you will remove the evil practice from among you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 19:20

Then those who remain

"When you punish the false witness, the rest of the people"

will hear and fear

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "will hear about the punishment and be afraid of getting punished" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

commit no longer any such evil

"never again do something evil like that"

Deuteronomy 19:21

Your eyes must not pity

Here "eyes" refer to the whole person. Alternate translation: "You must not pity him" or "You must not show him mercy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot

Here the phrases are shortened because the meaning is understood. The body parts are metonyms for the person whose parts they are. The people must punish a person in the same way that he harmed another person. Alternate translation: "eye will pay for for eye, tooth will pay for for tooth, hand will pay for for hand, foot will pay for for foot" or "you must destroy an eye of the person who destroys another person's eye, you must destroy a tooth of the person who destroys another person's tooth, you must destroy a hand of the person who destroys another person's hand, you must destroy a foot of the person who destroys another person's foot" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 20

Deuteronomy 20:intro-0

Deuteronomy 20 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's protection

Israel was not to worry about the power and strength of other nations. Instead, they were to trust in the power of Yahweh. He is the source of their military strength and protection. This is why a priest leads them into battle, rather than a military commander. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/priest.md]])

# Holy war

Israel's conquering of the Promised Land was unique in history. It was a type of holy war and had special rules. This war was really Yahweh's punishment against the sin of the Canaanite people. If the people were not completely destroyed, they would cause Israel to sin. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/promisedland.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/holy.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# "What man is there"

This phrase is used several times to introduce a rhetorical question. The questions are intended to tell the readers that Yahweh only wants soldiers who are completely dedicated to fighting for him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# Excused from fighting

In ancient Israel, men were excused from fighting in battle for several different reasons. Some of these reasons are mentioned in this chapter. Apparently, needing to establish a new house, the need to harvest a field and cowardice were possible excuses. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 20:1

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

When you march out to battle against your enemies

"When you go out to fight in a war against your enemies"

see horses, chariots

People considered an army with many horses and chariots to be very strong. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

he who brought you up out of the land of Egypt

Yahweh brought the people from Egypt to Canaan. It was common to use the word "up" to refer to traveling from Egypt to Canaan. Alternate translation: "Yahweh who led you out from the land of Egypt"

Deuteronomy 20:2

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

speak to the people

"speak to the soldiers of Israel"

Deuteronomy 20:3

Do not let your hearts faint. Do not fear or tremble. Do not be afraid of them

These four expressions all mean the same thing and strongly emphasize that they are not to be afraid. If your language does not have four ways to express this concept, you may use less than four. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Do not let your hearts faint

Here "hearts" represents people's courage. For a heart to faint is an idiom that means "Do not be afraid." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 20:4

Yahweh your God is the one who is going with you to fight for you against your enemies

Yahweh defeating the enemies of the people of Israel is spoken of as if Yahweh were a warrior who would fight along with the people of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

to save you

"to give you victory"

Deuteronomy 20:5

General Information:

Moses says what the army officers must say to the people of Israel before a battle.

The officers must speak

One of the officers' jobs was to decide who could leave the army. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

What man is there ... Let him go and return to his house

"If any soldier here has built a new house and has not dedicated it, he should go back to his house"

so that he does not die in battle and another man dedicates it

The officer is describing a situation that could possibly happen to a soldier. If a man who did not dedicate his house died in battle, another man could dedicate the house. Alternate translation: "so that he will not die in battle, because if he dies, another man could dedicate it"

Deuteronomy 20:6

General Information:

Moses continues describing situations that allow a man to leave the military.

Is there anyone who has planted ... Let him go home

"If any soldier here has a new vineyard, but has not yet harvested its grapes, he should go back to his house"

so he will not die in battle and another man enjoy its fruit

The officer is describing a situation that could possibly happen to a soldier. If a soldier died in battle, another man could take the fruit from his garden. Alternate translation: "so that he will not die in battle, because if he dies, another man could harvest its fruit instead of him"

Deuteronomy 20:7

What man is there who is engaged to marry a woman ... Let him go home

"If any soldier here has promised to marry a woman, but has not yet married her, he should go back to his house"

so that he does not die in battle and another man marries her

The officer is describing a situation that could possibly happen to a soldier. If a man was engaged and died, another man could marry the woman, and the first man would not have any children. Alternate translation: "so that he will not die in battle, because if he dies, another man could marry her instead of him"

Deuteronomy 20:8

General Information:

Moses continues describing situations that allow a man to leave the military.

What man is there who is fearful or fainthearted? Let him go and return to his house

"If any soldier here is afraid and not brave, he should go back to his house"

fearful or fainthearted

Both of these words mean basically the same thing. Alternate translation: "afraid to fight in battle" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

his brother's heart does not melt like his own heart

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "another Israelite does not become afraid like he is afraid" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

brother's heart ... his own heart

Here "heart" represents a person's courage. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 20:9

they must appoint commanders over them

"the officers must appoint people to be commanders and to lead the people of Israel"

Deuteronomy 20:10

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

When you march up to attack a city

Here "city" represents the people. Alternate translation: "When you go to attack the people of a city" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

make those people an offer of peace

"give the people in the city a chance to surrender"

Deuteronomy 20:11

open their gates to you

Here "gates" refers to the city gates. The phrase "open their gates to you" represents the people surrendering and allowing the Israelites to enter their city. Alternate translation: "let you enter their city peacefully" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

all the people who are found in it

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "all the people in the city" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

must become forced labor for you

"must become your slaves"

Deuteronomy 20:12

But if it makes no offer of peace

Here "it" refers to the city which represents the people. Alternate translation: "But if the people of the city do not surrender" or "But if the people of the city do not accept your offer of peace" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 20:13

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 20:14

the little ones

"the children"

all its spoil

"all the valuable things"

booty

These are the valuable things which people who win a battle take from the people they attacked.

Deuteronomy 20:15

all the cities

Here "cities" represents the people. Alternate translation: "all the people who live in cities" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 20:16

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

In the cities of these peoples that Yahweh your God is giving you as an inheritance

The cities in Canaan that Yahweh is giving to the people is spoken of as if the cities were the people's inheritance. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you must save alive nothing that breathes

"you must not let any living thing stay alive." This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "you must kill every living thing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 20:17

you must completely destroy them

"you must completely destroy these people groups"

Deuteronomy 20:18

Do this so that they

"Destroy these nations so that they"

to act in any of their abominable ways ... their gods

"to act in abominable ways like the people in these nations have done with their gods"

If you do, you will sin against Yahweh your God

"If you act like these people, you will sin against Yahweh your God"

Deuteronomy 20:19

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

wage war

"fight in a war"

by wielding an ax against them

"by cutting down the trees with an ax"

For is the tree of the field a man whom you should besiege?

This rhetorical question is to remind the people of what they should already know. This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "For fruit trees are not people, so they are not your enemy." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 20:20

you know are not trees for food

"you know are not trees that grow fruit to eat"

siege works

These are tools and structures, such as ladders and towers, that are needed to lay siege to a city.

until it falls

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "until the people of the city lose the war" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

it falls

Here "it" refers to the city which represents the people of the city. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 21

Deuteronomy 21:intro-0

Deuteronomy 21 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Elders

Older men were required to lead the people of Israel and help to administer justice. These men would function as judges, which would later become a more official position. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/justice.md]])

# Peace in Israel

The rules and instructions in this chapter help to ensure peace in Israel. This is not a military peace. Instead, it is about establishing peace within Israel and among the people.

Deuteronomy 21:1

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the people of Israel.

If someone is found killed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "If someone finds a person whom someone else has killed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

lying in the field

The dead person is lying in the field.

it is not known who has attacked him

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "nobody knows who attacked him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 21:2

they must measure to the cities

"they must measure the distance to the cities"

him who has been killed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "him whom someone has killed" or "the dead body" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 21:3

has not borne the yoke

"has not worn a yoke"

Deuteronomy 21:4

running water

This is an idiom for water that is moving. Alternate translation: "a stream" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

a valley that has been neither plowed nor sown

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "a valley where nobody has plowed the ground or planted seeds" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 21:5

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

must come forward

"must come to the valley"

for Yahweh your God has chosen them to serve him

"because the priests are the ones whom Yahweh your God has chosen to serve him"

Yahweh your God

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if he were speaking to one man, so the word "your" is singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

give blessing

"bless the people of Israel"

in the name of Yahweh

Here the metonym "in the name of" refers to Yahweh and his authority. Alternate translation: "as one who says and does what Yahweh himself would say and do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Yahweh and to decide every case of dispute and assault by their word

"Yahweh, and they will be the ones who settle all disagreements and cases of violence"

Deuteronomy 21:6

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

the heifer whose neck was broken

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the heifer whose neck the priests broke" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 21:7

they must answer to the case

"they must testify to Yahweh about this case"

Our hands have not shed this blood

Here "hands" are a synecdoche for the whole person and "shed this blood" is a metonym for killing an innocent person. Alternate translation: "We did not kill this innocent person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

neither have our eyes seen it

Here "eyes" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: "and we did not see anyone kill this person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 21:8

General Information:

Moses continues to tell the elders what they should say when they wash their hands over the heifer. He speaks to them as if he were speaking to one man, so the words "you" and "your" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

whom you have redeemed

do not put guilt for innocent bloodshed in the midst of your people Israel

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "do not treat your people Israel as if they are guilty of killing an innocent person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Then the bloodshed will be forgiven them

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Then Yahweh will forgive his people Israel for the death of an innocent person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 21:9

you will put away the innocent blood from your midst

"you will not be guilty any more of killing an innocent person"

what is right in the eyes of Yahweh

Deuteronomy 21:10

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel as if he were speaking to one man, so the words "you" and "your" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

you go out

"you who are soldiers go out"

Deuteronomy 21:11

you have a desire for her

Use a polite phrase for "you want to sleep with her."

wish to take her for yourself as a wife

"want to marry her"

Deuteronomy 21:12

she will shave her head

"she will shave the hair off of her head"

cut her nails

"cut her fingernails"

Deuteronomy 21:13

General Information:

she will take off the clothes she was wearing

She will do this after the man brings her to his house and when she shaves her head and cuts her fingernails and toenails as mentioned in Deuteronomy 21:12. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "she will take off the clothes of her people and put on Israelite clothes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

when she was taken captive

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "when you took her captive" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

a full month

"an entire month" or "a whole month"

After that you may lie with her

This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: "After that you may have sexual relations with her" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 21:14

But if you take no delight in her

You may need to make explicit that the man sleeps with the woman. Alternate translation: "But if you sleep with her and then decide that you do not want her as your wife" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

let her go where she wishes

"let her go wherever she wants to go"

because you have humiliated her

"because you shamed her by sleeping with her and then sending her away"

Deuteronomy 21:15

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

one is loved and the other is hated

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: Possible meanings are 1) "the man loves one of his wives and he hates the other wife" or 2) "the man loves one wife more than he loves the other wife" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

if the firstborn son is of her that is hated

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "if the firstborn son belongs to the wife whom the man hates" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 21:16

then on the day that the man

"when the man"

the man causes his sons to inherit what he possesses

"the man gives his possessions to his sons as an inheritance"

he may not make the son of the beloved wife the firstborn before the son of the hated wife

"he may not treat the son of the beloved wife as if he were the firstborn instead of the son of the hated wife"

Deuteronomy 21:17

a double portion

"twice as much"

that son is the beginning of his strength

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "that son is the one who shows that the man can become the father of sons" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 21:18

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

who will not obey the voice of his father or the voice of his mother

Here "voice" is a metonym for what a person says. Alternate translation: "who will not obey what his father or mother say" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

they correct him

"they punish him for his wrongdoing" or "they train and instruct him"

Deuteronomy 21:19

must lay hold on him and bring him out

"must force him to come out"

Deuteronomy 21:20

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel as if they were one man, so all instances of "you" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

This son of ours

"Our son"

he will not obey our voice

Here "voice" is a metonym for what a person says or a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: "he will not do what we tell him to do" or "he will not obey us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

a glutton

a person who eats and drinks too much

a drunkard

a person who drinks too much alcohol and gets drunk often

Deuteronomy 21:21

stone him to death with stones

"throw stones at him until he dies"

you will remove the evil from among you

The adjective "evil" can be translated as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: "you must remove from among the Israelites the person who does this evil thing" or "you must execute this evil person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

All Israel

The word "Israel" is a metonym for the people of Israel. Alternate translation: "All the people of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

will hear of it and fear

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "will hear about what happened to the son and be afraid that the people will punish them also" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 21:22

General Information:

If a man has committed a sin worthy of death

"If a man has done something so bad that you need to punish him by killing him"

he is put to death

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "you execute him" or "you kill him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

you hang him on a tree

Possible meanings are 1) "after he has died you hang him on a tree" or 2) "you kill him by hanging him on a wooden post"

Deuteronomy 21:23

bury him the same day

"bury him on the same day as when you execute him"

for whoever is hanged is cursed by God

This can be stated in active form. Possible meanings are 1) "because God curses everyone whom people hang on trees" and 2) "people hang on trees those whom God has cursed." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

do not defile the land

by leaving something God has cursed hanging in the tree

Deuteronomy 22

Deuteronomy 22:intro-0

Deuteronomy 22 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Order in Israel

The instructions in this chapter help to maintain order in this chapter. The people are to have integrity. The people's sin will result in serious punishment. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]])

# Virgin woman

If a woman was not a virgin, she was not considered to be worth marrying. The man who slept with her was responsible for providing for her since she will not be able to find a husband to provide for her. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 22:1

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

go astray

"walk away from its owner"

hide yourself from them

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "act as if you do not see them" or "go away without doing anything" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 22:2

If your fellow Israelite is not near to you

"If your fellow Israelite lives far away from you"

or if you do not know him

"or if you do not know who the owner of the animal is"

it must be with you until he looks for it

"you must keep the animal with you until its owner comes looking for it"

Deuteronomy 22:3

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

You must do the same with his donkey

"You must return his donkey in the same way"

you must do the same with his garment

"you must return his clothing in the same way"

you must not hide yourself

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "you must not act as if you do not see that he has lost something" or "you must not go away without doing anything" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 22:4

you must surely help him to lift it up again

"you must help your fellow Israelite lift the animal back up onto its feet"

Deuteronomy 22:5

General Information:

Moses is still speaking to the people of Israel.

what pertains to a man

"men's clothing"

Deuteronomy 22:6

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

bird's nest

a home that birds make for themselves out of sticks, grass, plants, and mud

with young ones or eggs in it

"with baby birds or eggs in the nest"

the mother sitting on the young

"the mother bird is sitting on the baby birds"

Deuteronomy 22:7

prolong your days

Deuteronomy 22:8

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

a railing for your roof

a low fence around the edge of the roof so people will not fall off the roof

so that you do not bring blood on your house

Blood is a symbol for death. Alternate translation: "so that it will not be the fault of your household if someone dies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

if anyone falls from there

"if anyone falls from the roof because you did not make a railing"

Deuteronomy 22:9

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

so that the whole harvest is not confiscated by the holy place

The words "holy place" is a metonym for the priests who work in the holy place. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "so that the priests in Yahweh's holy place do not take away the whole harvest" or "so that you do not defile the whole harvest and the priests do not allow you to use it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the yield of the vineyard

"the fruit that grows in the vineyard"

Deuteronomy 22:10

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 22:11

wool

soft, curly hair that grows on a sheep

linen

thread made from the flax plant (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 22:12

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the word "you" here is singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

fringes

threads that are bound together and hang from the end of each corner of the cloak

the cloak

a long garment that a person wears over his other clothes

Deuteronomy 22:13

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

he goes in to her

This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: "he has sexual relations with her" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 22:14

then accuses her of shameful things

"then accuses her of having slept with someone before she was married"

puts a bad reputation on her

The abstract noun "reputation" can be translated as a verb phrase. Alternate translation: "makes other people think she is a bad person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

but when I came near to her

This is a polite way of saying "to have sexual relations with someone." Alternate translation: "but when I slept with her" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

I found no proof of virginity in her

The abstract noun "proof" can be translated as a verb phrase. Alternate translation: "she could not prove to me that she was a virgin"

Deuteronomy 22:15

General Information:

Moses is still speaking to the people of Israel.

must take proof of her virginity

The abstract nouns "proof" and "virginity" can be translated with verbal phrases. Alternate translation: "must take something that proves that she has never had sexual relations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 22:16

General Information:

Moses is still speaking to the people of Israel.

Deuteronomy 22:17

he has accused her of shameful things

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "he has accused her of having slept with someone before he married her" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

I did not find in your daughter the proof of virginity

The abstract nouns "proof" and "virginity" can be translated as verb phrases. Alternate translation: "Your daughter could not prove that she has never had sexual relations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

But here is the proof of my daughter's virginity

The abstract nouns "proof" and "virginity" can be translated as verb phrases. Alternate translation: "But this proves that my daughter has never had sexual relations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Then they will spread the garment out before the elders of the city

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "And then the mother and father will show the clothing with the bloodstain to the elders as proof that she was a virgin" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 22:18

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Deuteronomy 22:19

they must fine him

"they must make him pay as a punishment"

one hundred shekels

"100 shekels" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-bmoney/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

give them to the father of the girl

"give the money to the father of the girl"

has caused a bad reputation for a virgin of Israel

The abstract noun "reputation" can be translated as a verb phrase. Alternate translation: "has caused people to think that a virgin of Israel is a bad person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

he may not send her away

"never allow him to divorce her"

during all his days

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "for his entire life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 22:20

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

But if this thing is true

"But if it is true" or "But if what the man said is true"

that the proof of virginity was not found in the girl

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that the man did not find proof that the girl was a virgin" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the proof of virginity

The abstract nouns "proof" and "virginity" can be translated as verb phrases. Alternate translation: "something that proves that the girl has never had sexual relations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 22:21

then they must bring out the girl

"then the elders must bring out the girl"

stone her to death with stones

"throw stones at her until she dies"

because she has committed a disgraceful action in Israel

"because she has done a disgraceful thing in Israel"

to act as a harlot in her father's house

"acting like a harlot while living in her father's house"

you will remove the evil

Deuteronomy 22:22

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the word "you" is singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

If a man is found

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "If someone finds a man" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

lying with

This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: "having sexual relations with" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

and you will remove

"in this way you will remove"

Deuteronomy 22:23

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the word "you" is singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

engaged to a man

"who is promised to marry a man"

lies with her

This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: "has sexual relations with her" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 22:24

take ... and stone

These commands are addressed to Israel as a group and so are plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

take both of them

"then you must bring both the girl and the man who slept with her"

because she did not cry out

"because she did not call for help"

because he violated his neighbor's wife

The Israelites at that time thought of a man and woman who had engaged each other for marriage as husband and wife. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "because he slept with a girl who belongs to a fellow Israelite" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

you will remove the evil from among you

Deuteronomy 22:25

the engaged girl

a girl whose parents have agreed to let her marry a certain man, but she has not married him yet

lies with her

This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: "has sexual relations with her" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

then only the man who lies with her must die

"then you must only kill the man who lay with her"

Deuteronomy 22:26

there is no sin worthy of death in the girl

"you are not to punish her by killing her for what she did"

For this case is like when a man attacks his neighbor and kills him

"Because this situation is like the situation when somebody attacks another person and kills him"

Deuteronomy 22:27

For he found her in the field

"Because the man found the girl working in the field"

Deuteronomy 22:28

but who is not engaged

"but whose parents have not promised another man that she will marry him"

lies with her

This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: "has sexual relations with her" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

if they are discovered

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "if somebody finds out what happened" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 22:29

fifty shekels of silver

A shekel weighs eleven grams. Alternate translation: "fifty pieces of silver" or "550 grams of silver" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-bmoney/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

He may not send her away during all his days

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "He must never divorce her during his entire life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 22:30

must not take his father's wife as his own

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "must not marry his father's former wife, even if she is not his mother" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 23

Deuteronomy 23:intro-0

Deuteronomy 23 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# The assembly of Yahweh

This was probably the corporate worship of Yahweh, when the people would come together to worship him.

# Racial superiority

Yahweh viewed Israel as superior to the other nations of Canaan. In many cultures, this may be seen as immoral. It must be remembered that the instructions of this chapter are very remote from the modern world. These people groups were always sinful and idolatrous. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]])

Deuteronomy 23:1

man whose genitals are crushed or cut off

"man whose private body parts someone has crushed or cut off." Moses is referring to a man's male organs.

may enter the assembly of Yahweh

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "may be a full member of the Israelite community" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 23:2

illegitimate child

Possible meanings are 1) a child born to parents who committed incest or adultery or 2) a child born to a prostitute.

as far as to the tenth generation of his descendants

This "tenth" is the ordinal number for ten. Alternate translation: "even after ten generations of the illegitimate child's descendants" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-ordinal/01.md]])

none of them

"none of these descendants"

Deuteronomy 23:3

may not belong to the assembly of Yahweh

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "may not be a full member of the Israelite community" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

as far as to the tenth generation of his descendants

This "tenth"is the ordinal number for ten. Alternate translation: "even after ten generations of his descendants" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-ordinal/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 23:4

they did not meet you with bread and with water

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "they did not welcome you by bringing you food and drink" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

against you ... curse you

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the word "you" here is singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 23:5

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

would not listen

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "did not pay attention" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

turned the curse into a blessing for you

"had him bless you and not curse you"

Deuteronomy 23:6

You must never seek their peace or prosperity

Possible meanings are 1) "You should never make a peace treaty with the Ammonites and the Moabites" or 2) "You must not do anything to cause things to go well for those 2 people groups to enable them to prosper" .

during all your days

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "as long as you are a nation" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 23:7

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

You must not detest an Edomite

"Do not hate an Edomite"

for he is your brother

"because he is your relative"

you must not abhor an Egyptian

"do not hate an Egyptian"

Deuteronomy 23:8

The descendants of the third generation that are born to them may belong to the assembly of Yahweh

This "third" is the ordinal number for three. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "If an Edomite or an Egyptian comes to live in the Israelite community, his grandchildren may become full members of that community" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-ordinal/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 23:9

When you march out as an army against your enemies, then you must keep yourselves

Moses speaks here to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

against your enemies

"to fight against your enemies"

keep yourselves from every evil thing

"keep yourselves away from all bad things"

Deuteronomy 23:10

any man who is unclean because of what happened to him at night

This is a polite way of saying that he had an emission of semen. Alternate translation: "any man who is unclean because he had an emission of semen while he was asleep" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 23:11

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 23:12

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 23:13

you will have something among your tools to dig with

"you should have a tool that you can use to dig with"

when you squat down to relieve yourself

This is a polite way of saying to defecate. Alternate translation: "when you squat down to defecate" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

you must dig with it

"you must dig a hole with the tool"

cover up what has come out from you

"cover up your excrement"

Deuteronomy 23:14

so that he may not see any unclean thing among you

"so that Yahweh may not see any unclean thing among you"

Deuteronomy 23:15

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

a slave who has escaped from his master

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "a slave from another country who escaped from his master and came to Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 23:16

Let him live with you

"Let the slave live among your people"

Deuteronomy 23:17

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

cultic prostitute ... among any of the daughters ... among the sons

Possible meanings are that Moses 1) openly forbids women and men to perform sexual acts as part of temple service or 2) uses a euphemism to forbid women and men to perform sexual acts to receive money. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 23:18

You must not bring the wages of a prostitute ... into the house

"A woman who earns money as a prostitute must not bring that money ... into the house"

a dog

a man who allows men to have sex with him for money

into the house of Yahweh your God

"into the temple"

for any vow

"to fulfill a vow"

both these

the wages of a female prostitute and of a male prostitute.

Deuteronomy 23:19

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

lend on interest

to lend to somebody and force that person to pay back more than was lent

interest of money ... anything that is lent on interest

"you must not charge interest when you lend somebody money, food, or anything else"

Deuteronomy 23:20

all that you put your hand to

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "all that you do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 23:21

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

you must not be slow in fulfilling it

"you must not take a long time to fulfill the vow"

for Yahweh your God will surely require it of you

"because Yahweh your God will blame you and punish you if you do not fulfill your vow"

Deuteronomy 23:22

But if you will refrain from making a vow, it will be no sin for you

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "But, if you do not make a vow, you will not sin because you will not have a vow to fulfill" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 23:23

That which has gone out from your lips

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "The words you have spoken" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

according as you have vowed to Yahweh your God

"whatever you have vowed to Yahweh your God that you will do"

anything that you have freely promised with your mouth

"anything that people have heard you promise to do because you wanted to do it"

with your mouth

"so that people heard you say it"

Deuteronomy 23:24

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

you may eat as many grapes as you desire

"then you may enjoy eating grapes until you are full"

but do not put any in your basket

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "but you may not put any grapes in your bag to take them away with you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 23:25

When you go into your neighbor's ripe grain

"When you walk through your neighbor's field where there is grain growing"

you may pluck the heads of grain with your hand

"then you may eat the kernels of grain with your hand"

but do not put a sickle to your neighbor's ripe grain

"but do not cut down your neighbor's ripe grain and take it with you"

sickle

a sharp tool that farmers use to harvest wheat

Deuteronomy 24

Deuteronomy 24:intro-0

Deuteronomy 24 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter continues the teaching about how to maintain justice in Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/justice.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# "No man may take a mill or an upper millstone as a pledge"

A millstone was the way a person made a living. To take a person's millstone was to take take away the way they earned money and produced food. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

# Lending money

Lending money to fellow Israelites was a way to help them out. It was not intended to be a way to make money off their brothers. This chapter gives limitations regarding the lending of money.

Deuteronomy 24:1

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

When a man takes a wife and marries her

The phrases "takes a wife" and "marries her" mean the same thing. Alternate translation: "When a man marries a woman" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

if she finds no favor in his eyes

Here the "eyes" represent the whole person. Alternate translation: "if he decides that he does not like her" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

because he has found some unsuitable thing in her

"because for some reason he has decided that he does not want to keep her"

he must write her a certificate of divorce

"he must give his wife an official paper saying that they are not married anymore"

Deuteronomy 24:2

she may go and be another man's wife

"she may go and marry another man"

Deuteronomy 24:3

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel about a woman who gets a divorce and marries another man. Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

If the second husband hates her

"If the second husband decides that he hates the woman"

certificate of divorce

This is an official paper saying that the man and woman are not married anymore. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 24:1.

puts it into her hand

"gives it to the woman"

Deuteronomy 24:4

after she has become impure

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "after she has become unclean by the divorce and remarriage to another man" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

You must not cause the land to become guilty

The land is spoken of as if it could sin. Alternate translation: "You must not spread guilt around in the land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 24:5

General Information:

Moses is still speaking to the people of Israel.

When a man takes a new wife

"When a man is newly married to a woman"

neither may he be commanded to go on any forced duty

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "and no one is to force him to live away from his home and do any kind of work" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

he will be free to be at home

"he will be free to live at home"

Deuteronomy 24:6

mill

a tool for making flour by grinding grain in between two heavy discs of stone

upper millstone

the top disc of stone in a mill

for that would be taking a person's life as a pledge

The word "life" is a metonym for what a person needs to keep himself alive. Alternate translation: "because he would be taking from the man what the man needs to make food for his family" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 24:7

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

If a man is found kidnapping

This is an idiom for "If a man kidnaps." It can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "If you find a man kidnapping" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

kidnapping

using physical force to take an innocent person away from his home and imprison him

any of his brothers from among the people of Israel

"any of his fellow Israelites"

that thief must die

"then other Israelites should kill that thief as a punishment for what he did"

you will remove the evil from among you

Deuteronomy 24:8

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Take heed ... you carefully observe

Moses speaks to the Israelites here as if they were one man, so the word "you" and the command "take heed" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Take heed regarding any plague of leprosy

"Pay attention if you suffer from leprosy" or "Pay attention if you have leprosy"

every instruction given to you which the priests, the Levites, teach you

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "all of the instructions that I have given you and that the priests, who are Levites, teach you to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

teach you ... you will act

Moses here speaks to the Israelites as a group, so these instances of the word "you" are plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

as I commanded them, so you will act

"you must make sure that you do exactly what I have commanded them"

commanded them

The word "them" refers to the priests, who are Levites.

Deuteronomy 24:9

Call to mind what Yahweh your God

Moses speaks to the Israelites here as if they were one man, so the word "your" and the command "call to mind" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

you were coming out

Moses here speaks to the Israelites as a group, so the word "you" is plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Call to mind

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "Remember" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

as you were coming out of Egypt

"during the time when you were leaving Egypt"

Deuteronomy 24:10

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

When you make your neighbor any kind of loan

"When you loan something to your neighbor"

to fetch his pledge

"to take his pledge"

his pledge

This refers to what he has promised that he would give you if he did not pay back the loan.

Deuteronomy 24:11

You will stand outside

"You should wait outside his house"

Deuteronomy 24:12

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

you must not lie down to sleep with his pledge in your possession

"you must not keep his coat overnight" or "you must return his pledge before you lie down to sleep"

his pledge

This refers to what he has promised that he would give you if he did not pay back the loan. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 24:10.

Deuteronomy 24:13

restore to him the pledge

"give him back what he has given you to show that he will pay back the loan"

so that he may sleep in his cloak and bless you

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "so that he will have his coat to keep himself warm when he sleeps, and he will be grateful to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

cloak

This is a coat or other clothing that keeps a person warm at night. This was probably the "pledge" Moses was speaking of in Deuteronomy 24:10-12.

it will be righteousness for you before Yahweh your God

"Yahweh your God will approve of the way you handled this matter"

Deuteronomy 24:14

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

You must not oppress a hired servant

"You must not treat a hired servant poorly"

hired servant

a person who gets paid daily for his work

poor and needy

These two words have similar meanings and emphasize that this is a person who cannot help himself. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

within your city gates

Here "city gates" mean towns or cities. Alternate translation: "in one of your cities" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 24:15

Each day you must give him his wage

"You should give the man the money he earns every single day"

the sun must not go down on this unsettled matter

This is an idiom. The Israelites considered the new day as starting when the sun went down. Alternate translation: "you should pay the man on the same day he does the work" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

for he is poor and is counting on it

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "because he is poor and depends on his wages to buy his food for the next day" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

he does not cry out against you to Yahweh

"he does not call out to Yahweh and ask him to punish you"

Deuteronomy 24:16

The parents must not be put to death for their children

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "You must not execute the parents because of something bad that one of their children did" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

neither must the children be put to death for their parents

This can be stated in active form, Alternate translation: "and you must not execute the children because of something bad that their parents did" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

everyone must be put to death for his own sin

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "you should only execute a person because of something bad that he did himself" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 24:17

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

You must not use force to take away the justice that is due the foreigner or the fatherless

Moses speaks of justice as if it were a physical object that a stronger person can violently pull away from a weaker person. Alternate translation: "You must not treat a foreigner or the fatherless unfairly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

fatherless

This refers to children whose parents have both died and do not have relatives to care for them.

nor take the widow's cloak as a pledge

A lender would take something from the borrower to ensure that she would pay him back. He was not allowed to take her coat because she needed it to stay warm. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "and do not take a widow's cloak as a pledge because she needs it to stay warm" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 24:18

call to mind

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "remember" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 24:19

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

When you reap your harvest in your field

"When you cut down the grain in your field"

an omer of grain

Some versions translate this as "a sheaf." Either translation refers to stalks of grain, enough to be easily carried, possibly tied in a bundle.

it must be for the foreigner, for the fatherless, or for the widow

You can make clear the understood information. Alternate translation: "you must leave the sheaf so a foreigner, an orphan, or a widow can take it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

in all the work of your hands

Here "hands" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: "in all the work that you do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 24:20

When you shake your olive tree

You can make clear the understood information. Alternate translation: "When you shake the branches of your olive tree, causing the olives to fall to the ground so you can pick them up" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

you must not go over the branches again

"do not pick every single olive from the tree"

it will be for the foreigner, for the fatherless, or for the widow

You can make clear the understood information. Alternate translation: "the olives that stay on the branches are for foreigners, orphans, and widows to pick and take with them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 24:21

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

What is left over will be for the foreigner, for the fatherless, and for the widow

"The grapes that you do not pick will be for the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widow to pick"

for the foreigner, for the fatherless, and for the widow

These refer to groups of people. Alternate translation: "for foreigners, for those who are fatherless, and for the widows" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 24:22

call to mind

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "remember" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 25

Deuteronomy 25:intro-0

Deuteronomy 25 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter continues to teach about justice in Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/justice.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# "A perfect and just weight you must have"

In the ancient Near East, money was weighted on a scale. If a persons weight was off, they were robbing people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 25:1

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Deuteronomy 25:2

If the guilty man deserves to be beaten

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "If the judge orders them to beat the guilty man" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

be beaten in his presence

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "he will watch them beat him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

with the ordered number of blows, as was his crime

"the number of times he has ordered because of the bad deed he did"

Deuteronomy 25:3

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

The judge may give him forty blows

"The judge may say that they should beat the guilty person 40 times" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

but he may not exceed that number

"but the judge may not order them to beat him more than 40 times"

for if he should exceed that number and beat him with many more blows

"because if the judge orders them to beat him many more than 40 times"

then your fellow Israelite would be humiliated before your eyes

This may be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "then the judge would humiliate your fellow Israelite in front of all of the people of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

humiliated before your eyes

Here the people are represented by their "eyes" to emphasize what they see. Alternate translation: "humiliated, and you would all see it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 25:4

You must not muzzle the ox

"You must not put something over the mouth of an ox"

when he threshes the grain

while he separates the grain from the chaff by walking on it or dragging heavy wood over it

Deuteronomy 25:5

General Information:

Moses is still speaking to the people of Israel.

If brothers live together

Possible meanings are: 1) "If brothers live on the same property" or 2) "If brothers live near each other."

then the wife of the dead man must not be married off to someone

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "then the family of the dead man must not let the widow marry someone" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

shall go in to her

This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: "shall have sexual relations with her" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

do the duty of a husband's brother to her

"do what the brother of a dead husband is supposed to do"

Deuteronomy 25:6

will succeed in the name of that man's dead brother

The word "name" is a metonym for the person's family line. Alternate translation: "will continue the family line of that man's dead brother" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

so that his name will not perish from Israel

The word "name" is a metonym for the person's family line. Alternate translation: "so that his family line will not disappear from Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 25:7

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

must go up to the gate to the elders

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "must go up to the city gate where the elders judge cases" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

refuses to raise up for his brother a name

Here "name" refers to the memory of someone through his descendants. Alternate translation: "refuses to give his brother a son" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

he will not perform the duty of a husband's brother to me

"he will not do what a husband's brother is supposed to do and marry me"

Deuteronomy 25:8

I do not wish to take her

"I do not wish to marry her"

Deuteronomy 25:9

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

must come up to him in the presence of the elders

"must walk up close to him with the elders there watching"

who does not build up his brother's house

Here "house" is a metonym for the family. Alternate translation: "who does not give his brother a son and continue his brother's family line" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 25:10

His name will be called in Israel

"People in Israel will know his family as"

The house of him whose sandal has been taken off

Here removing the sandal symbolizes that the brother would not receive any of the property of his dead brother. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. This can also be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "The house of him whose sandal his brother's widow took off his foot" or "The family of a man who did not marry the wife of his dead brother" or "The family whom everyone despises" or "The family who is shameful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 25:11

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

out of the hand of him who struck him

Here "hand" refers to power or control. Alternate translation: "so the one who struck him will not strike him again" or "from the man who hit him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 25:12

your eye must have no pity

Here "eye" means the whole person. Alternate translation: "you should not feel sorry for her" or "you must not show her mercy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 25:13

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

You must not have in your bag different weights, a large and a small

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. You can also make clear the understood information. Alternate translation: "You must not have in your bag different weights, a large weight and a small weight" or "You must not cheat people by using a weight that is larger than you say it is when you buy things and by using a weight that is smaller than you say it is when you sell things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

weights

Weights were stones used on a balance to determine how much something weighs

Deuteronomy 25:14

You must not have in your house different measures, a large and a small

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. You can also make clear the understood information. Alternate translation: "You must not have in your house different measures, a large measure and a small measure" or "You must not cheat people by using a measure that is larger than you say it is when you buy things and by using a measure that is smaller than you say it is when you sell things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

measures

A measure was a basket or other container for measuring how much there is of something.

Deuteronomy 25:15

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel about using fair weights and measures when buying and selling. He speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

A perfect and just

"A correct and fair"

weight ... measure

See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 25:13.

your days may be long

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "you may live for a long time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 25:16

For all who do such things, all that act unrighteously

"because everyone who cheats people by using different sized weights and measures"

Deuteronomy 25:17

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so except where noted the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Call to mind what Amalek did to you

This is an idiom, and "Amalek" is a metonym for the Amelikite people. Alternate translation: "Remember what the Amalekites did to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

as you came out

The word "you" here is plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 25:18

how he met you on the road

"how they met you along the way"

attacked those of you at the rear

"attacked those of your people who were in the back of the line"

all who were feeble in your rear

"all the people who were weak in the back of the line"

faint and weary

These words have similar meanings and emphasize how tired the people were. Alternate translation: "tired and exhausted" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

he did not honor God

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "he was not afraid of God's punishment" or "he did not respect God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 25:19

you must blot out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven

"you must kill all of the Amalekites so that nobody will remember them anymore"

Deuteronomy 26

Deuteronomy 26:intro-0

Deuteronomy 26 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter recalls the great events of Israel's history when Yahweh brought them out of Egypt.

Deuteronomy 26:1

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 26:2

some of the first of all the harvest

"some of the first fruits of the harvest" or "some of the first crops of the harvest." This "first" is the ordinal number for one. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-ordinal/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 26:3

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 26:4

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 26:5

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

My ancestor was a wandering Aramean

This is the beginning of the statement that the Israelite male should make when bringing his basket.

a wandering Aramean

This refers to Jacob, who was the ancestor of all the Israelites. He lived for many years in Aram-Nahairam, a region located in Syria.

stayed there

"lived the rest of his life there"

There he became

The word "he" is a metonym for "Jacob's descendants." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

a great, mighty

These words mean basically the same thing. They emphasize that Israel became a large and powerful nation. Alternate translation: "very great" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 26:6

General Information:

This continues what the Israelite must say when he brings his first crops to Yahweh.

treated us badly and afflicted us

These two phrases say basically the same thing. They emphasize that the Egyptians acted very harshly. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

treated us

Here "us" refers to the people of Israel that were living in Egypt. The speaker includes himself as one of the people whether he lived in Egypt or not. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 26:7

he heard our voice

Here "voice" refers to the whole person and his cries or prayers. Alternate translation: "he heard our cries" or "he heard our prayers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

our affliction, our labor, and our oppression

"that the Egyptians were afflicting us, that we were doing very hard work, and that the Egyptians were oppressing us"

Deuteronomy 26:8

General Information:

This continues what the Israelite must say when he brings his first crops to Yahweh.

Yahweh brought us

with a mighty hand, with an outstretched arm

with great fearsomeness

"with acts that terrified the people who saw them"

Deuteronomy 26:9

a land that flows with milk and honey

This is an idiom. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 6:3. Alternate translation: "a land where plenty of milk and honey flow" or "a land that is excellent for cattle and farming"

Deuteronomy 26:10

General Information:

Moses continues telling the Israelites what they must say when they bring theire first crops to Yahweh. He speaks to them as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

first of the harvest

"first fruits of the harvest" or "first crops of the harvest"

You must set it down

"You must set the basket down."

Deuteronomy 26:11

you must rejoice in all the good that Yahweh your God has done for you

"you must rejoice and be grateful for all the good things that Yahweh your God has done for you"

Deuteronomy 26:12

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

in the third year

This "third" is the ordinal number for three. Every three years the people of Israel gave a tenth of the harvest to the poor. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-ordinal/01.md]])

fatherless

These are children whose parents have both died and do not have relatives to care for them.

widow

This means a woman whose husband has died and has no children to care for her now that she is old.

eat within your city gates and be filled

Here "gates" means towns or cities. Alternate translation: "so that those within your towns may have enough food to eat" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 26:13

I have brought out of

These are the first words of another statement that the Israelite was supposed to say.

neither have I forgotten them

This means that he has obeyed all of God's commandments.

Deuteronomy 26:14

General Information:

This continues what the Israelite must say to Yahweh when he gives his tithe to the poor.

I have not eaten any of it in my mourning

"I have not eaten any of the tithe while I was mourning"

when I was impure

Here "impure" means the person is unclean according to the Law. God does not allow an unclean person to touch the tithe he is giving to God. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "when I was unclean according to the Law" or "when the law says I cannot touch it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

I have listened to the voice of Yahweh my God; I have obeyed everything you have commanded me to do

Here "voice of Yahweh" is a metonym for what Yahweh says. Both statements share similar meanings. They emphasize that the person has obeyed all of God's commands. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 26:15

from the holy place where you live, from heaven

These two phrases mean the same thing. Alternate translation: "from heaven, your holy dwelling place" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

a land flowing with milk and honey

This is an idiom. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 6:3. Alternate translation: "a land where plenty of milk and honey flow" or "a land that is excellent for cattle and farming"

Deuteronomy 26:16

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

with all your heart and with all your soul

Deuteronomy 26:17

that you will walk in his ways and keep his statutes, his commandments, and his decrees, and that you will listen to his voice

The words "walk," "keep," and "listen" have similar meanings here. Here "voice" refers to what God has said. Alternate translation: "that you will completely obey everything Yahweh commands" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 26:18

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

a people who are his own possession

"a people who belong to him"

Deuteronomy 26:19

he will set you high above

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "he will make you more important than" or "he will make you greater than" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

he will set you high above all the other nations that he has made, and you will receive praise, fame, and honor

Possible meanings are 1) "he will cause you to become greater than any other nation that he has established, and he will enable you to praise him and honor him" or 2) "he will have people praise you more than they praise every other nation that he has made; people will say that you are better than any other nation, and they will honor you."

You will be a people that is set apart to Yahweh your God

Yahweh choosing the people of Israel to belong to him in a special way is spoken of as if Yahweh set them apart from all other nations. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh your God will set you apart from other nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 27

Deuteronomy 27:intro-0

Deuteronomy 27 General Notes

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# "May the man be cursed"

This phrase is repeated several times in this chapter. This parallelism serves as a warning to the Israelites when they will live in the Promised Land. This is part of the covenant Yahweh made with Moses. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/promisedland.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lawofmoses.md]])

Deuteronomy 27:1

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so except where noted, the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

command you today

Moses is speaking to the Israelites as a group, so the word "you" is plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

I command

Here "I" refers to Moses. The elders are there in agreement with Moses, but he is the only one speaking.

Deuteronomy 27:2

you will pass

Moses is speaking to the Israelites as a group, so the word "you" is plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

plaster them with plaster

Plaster is usually a mixture of lime, sand, and water that is spread on something. It dries to form a hard, smooth surface on which a person can write. Alternate translation: "spread plaster on them" or "make them so you can write on them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 27:3

a land flowing with milk and honey

Deuteronomy 27:4

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

you have passed ... set up ... I am commanding you

Moses is addressing the Israelites as a group, so the instances of "you" and the command "set up" are plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

plaster them with plaster

"spread plaster on them" or "make them so you can write on them." See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 27:2.

Mount Ebal

This is a mountain near Shechem. See how you translated it in Deuteronomy 11:29.

Deuteronomy 27:5

you must raise no iron tool to work the stones

This refers to the chisels that would make the stones smoother, in order that they might fit together better. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "you will not shape the altar stones with iron tools" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 27:6

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

unworked stones

stones in their natural shape that no one has shaped with metal tools

Deuteronomy 27:7

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 27:8

write on the stones

This refers to the stones they were to set up on Mount Ebal and cover with plaster. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 27:2 and Deuteronomy 27:4.

Deuteronomy 27:9

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 27:10

obey the voice of Yahweh your God

Here the metonym "voice of Yahweh" refers to what he says. Alternate translation: "obey what Yahweh your God says" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

I am commanding

Moses is commanding. The Levites are there in agreement with Moses, but he is the only one speaking.

Deuteronomy 27:11

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 27:12

These tribes

Here the metonym "tribes" refers to the people from the tribes of Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Joseph, and Benjamin. Alternate translation: "The people from these tribes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Mount Gerizim

A small mountain north of Mount Ebal. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 11:29.

Joseph

This combines the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, who were descendants of Joseph.

Deuteronomy 27:13

Mount Ebal

See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 11:29.

pronounce curses

"say in a loud voice how Yahweh will curse Israel"

Deuteronomy 27:14

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 27:15

May the man be cursed ... sets it up in secret

This is the statement the Levites must shout to all the people of Israel. It may be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "May Yahweh curse the person ... sets it up in secret" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the work of the hands of a craftsman

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "something a man has made" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

craftsman

a man who knows how to make things well

Deuteronomy 27:16

General Information:

Moses continues telling the Levites and the people what they must say.

May the man be cursed

This may be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "May Yahweh curse the man" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 27:17

who removes his neighbor's landmark

The full meaning of the statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "who takes land away from his neighbor by moving the markers on the borders of his land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 27:18

General Information:

Moses continues telling the Levites and the people what they must say.

May the man be cursed

This may be stated in active form. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 27:16. Alternate translation: "May Yahweh curse the man" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 27:19

uses force to take away the justice due to a foreigner ... widow

Moses speaks of justice as if it were a physical object that a stronger person can violently pull away from a weaker person. Your language might have one word that means "use force to take away." See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 24:17. Alternate translation: "treats a foreigner ... widow unfairly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

fatherless

These are children whose parents have both died and do not have relatives to care for them.

widow

This means a woman whose husband has died and has no children to care for her in her old age.

Deuteronomy 27:20

General Information:

Moses continues telling the Levites and the people what they must say.

May the man be cursed

This can be stated in active form. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 27:16. Alternate translation: "May Yahweh curse the man" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

his father's wife

This does not refer to the man's mother, but another wife of his father.

he has taken away his father's rights

When a man marries a woman, only he has the legal right to sleep with her. The full meaning of this statement may be made explicit. Alternate translation: "he has taken away his father's legal rights" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 27:21

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 27:22

General Information:

Moses continues telling the Levites and the people what they must say.

May the man be cursed

the daughter of his father, or with the daughter of his mother

This means a man cannot sleep with his sister, even if she has a different mother or father.

Deuteronomy 27:23

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 27:24

General Information:

Moses continues telling the Levites and the people what they must say.

May the man be cursed

Deuteronomy 27:25

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 27:26

General Information:

Moses continues telling the Levites and the people what they must say.

May the man be cursed

Deuteronomy 28

Deuteronomy 28:intro-0

Deuteronomy 28 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Blessings and warnings

This chapter explains some of the blessings and warnings associated with Israel's obedience to the law of Moses. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/bless.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lawofmoses.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:1

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

to the voice of Yahweh your God

Here the metonym "voice of Yahweh" refers to what he says. Alternate translation: "to what Yahweh your God says" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

so as to keep

"and obey"

set you above

Moses speaks of being important or being great as if it were being physically higher, as on a higher hill. Alternate translation: "make you more important than" or "make you greater than" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:2

All these blessings will come on you and overtake you

Moses describes the blessings as a person who would attack them by surprise or chase and catch them. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will bless you like this in ways that will completely surprise you, and it will be as if you cannot escape having him bless you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:3

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Blessed will you be

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will bless you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

in the city ... in the field

This merism means that Yahweh will bless them everywhere. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:4

the fruit of your womb, the fruit of your ground, and the fruit of your livestock

These idioms for "your children, and your crops, and all your animals" form a merism for everything the Israelites valued. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

the fruit of your livestock, and the increase of your herds and the lambs of your flocks

This doublet is three ways of saying that Yahweh will make the Israelites' animals many and strong. Alternate translation: "all of your animals, along with the calves of the cattle and the lambs of the flocks" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:5

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Blessed will be

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will bless" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

your basket and your kneading trough

Israelites used a basket to carry grain. A "kneading trough" was a bowl they used to mix the grain and make bread. Alternate translation: "all the food you grow and all the food you eat" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:6

when you come in ... when you go out

This merism refers to all of life's activities everywhere they go. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:7

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

cause your enemies who rise up against you to be struck down before you

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "cause you to defeat the armies that attack you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

but will flee before you seven ways

"but they will run away from you in seven directions"

seven ways

This is an idiom. The actual number could be more or less than seven. Alternate translation: "in many different directions" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:8

Yahweh will command the blessing to come on you in your barns

Moses describes Yahweh blessing the Israelites as if Yahweh were commanding a person to attack them by surprise. Alternate translation: "When Yahweh blesses you, you will be surprised by how much grain you have in your barns" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

in all that you put your hand to

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "in everything you do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:9

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Yahweh will establish you as a people that is set apart for himself

Yahweh choosing the people of Israel to belong to him in a special way is spoken of as if Yahweh put them in a place different from the place all other nations live in. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will make you a holy people that belongs to him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:10

you are called by the name of Yahweh

Here the metonym "called by the name of Yahweh" means belonging to him. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh has called you his own" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:11

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

in the fruit of your womb, in the fruit of your livestock, and in the fruit of your ground

This is an idiom. See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 28:4. Alternate translation: "with children, animals, and crops" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:12

his storehouse of the heavens

Moses speaks of the clouds from which the rain falls as if they were a building where he stores the rain. Alternate translation: "the clouds" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

at the right time

"when the crops need it"

all the work of your hand

The word "hand" is a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: "all the work that you do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:13

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

the head, and not the tail

This metaphor describes the nation of Israel as an animal and means the Israelites will always be the leaders over other nations and never the servants following behind them. The Israelites will be superior in power, money, and honor. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

will be only above ... will never be beneath

The Israelites will rule over others but never have others rule them.

I am commanding you

Moses is speaking to all the Israelites, so the word "you" is plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:14

if you do not turn away from any of the words that I am commanding you today, to the right hand or to the left, so as to go after other gods to serve them

Disobeying Yahweh and worshiping other gods is spoken of as if a person physically turned and went in a different direction from Yahweh's words. Alternate translation: "if you do not disobey what I am commanding you today by serving other gods" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:15

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

But if

Here Moses starts describing the curses the people will receive if they disobey.

the voice of Yahweh your God

Here the metonym "voice of Yahweh" means what Yahweh says. Alternate translation: "what Yahweh your God is saying" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

then all these curses will come on you and overtake you

Moses describes the curses as a person who would attack them by surprise or chase and catch them. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will curse you like this in ways that will completely surprise you, and it will be as if you cannot escape having him curse you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

come on you and overtake you

See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 28:2.

Deuteronomy 28:16

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Cursed will you be

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will curse you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

in the city ... in the field

This merism means that Yahweh will bless them everywhere. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 28:3. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:17

your basket and your kneading trough

The Israelites used a basket to carry grain. A "kneading trough" was a bowl they used to mix the grain and make bread. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 28:5. Alternate translation: "all the food you grow and all the food you eat" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:18

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Cursed will be

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will curse" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the fruit of your womb, the fruit of your ground

This is an idiom for "your children, your crops." See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 28:4. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

herds ... flocks

"cattle ... sheep"

Deuteronomy 28:19

when you come in ... when you go out

This merism refers to all of life's activities everywhere they go. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 28:6 (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:20

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

curses, confusion, and rebukes

"disasters, fear, and frustration"

in all that you put your hand to

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "in everything you do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

until you are destroyed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "until your enemies destroy you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

forsaken me

Here "me" refers to Yahweh.

Deuteronomy 28:21

cling to you

"remain on you"

Deuteronomy 28:22

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

infectious diseases, with fever, with inflammation

"diseases and burning fevers that will make you weak." These all refer to diseases that cause people to grow weak and die.

with drought

"with lack of rain"

mildew

mold that grows on crops and causes them to rot

These will pursue you

Moses speaks of the bad things that would happen to the Israelites as if they were people or animals who would chase after the Israelites. Alternate translation: "You will suffer from them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:23

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

skies ... will be bronze

Moses speaks of the skies being like bronze because there will be no rain. Alternate translation: "skies ... will give no rain" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the earth ... will be iron

Moses speaks of the earth being like iron because no crops will grow. Alternate translation: "nothing will grow from the ground" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:24

Yahweh will make the rain of your land into powder and dust

"instead of rain, Yahweh will send sandstorms"

until you are destroyed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "until it destroys you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:25

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Yahweh will cause you to be struck down before your enemies

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will cause your enemies to strike you down" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

to be struck down before

See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 28:7.

will flee before them seven ways

This means the Israelites will be afraid and panic and run away from their enemies. See similar wording in Deuteronomy 28:7. Alternate translation: "you will flee in seven directions" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

seven ways

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "in many different directions" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

You will be tossed to and fro among all the kingdoms

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "The peoples of the other nations will drive you from one nation to another" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:26

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 28:27

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

the boils of Egypt

"the same skin disease with which I cursed the Egyptians"

boils ... ulcers, scurvy, and itch

These are different types of skin diseases.

from which you cannot be healed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "from which no one will be able to heal you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:28

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 28:29

You will grope about at noonday like the blind grope in the darkness

"You will be like blind people who grope in darkness even at noonday." The Israelites will have a difficult life even when everyone else is enjoying life. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

you will be always oppressed and robbed

"stronger people will always oppress and rob you"

Deuteronomy 28:30

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:31

Your ox will be slain before your eyes

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "You will watch as someone kills your ox" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

your donkey will be forcibly taken away from before you and will not be restored to you

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "someone will take your donkey by force and will not give it back" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Your sheep will be given to your enemies

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I will give your sheep to your enemies" or "I will allow your enemies to take your sheep" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:32

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Your sons and your daughters will be given to other peoples

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I will give your sons and your daughters to other peoples" or "Your enemies will take your sons and daughters" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

your eyes will look for them the entire day, but will fail with longing for them

Here "your eyes" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: "you will grow tired as you constantly watch for them and long to see them again" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

There will be no strength in your hand

Here the metonym "strength in your hand" refers to power. "Alternate translation: "You will be powerless to do anything about it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:33

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

a nation

Here the metonym "a nation" means the people from a nation. Alternate translation: "people from a nation" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

you will always be oppressed and crushed

The words "oppressed" and "crushed" mean basically the same thing. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "they will always oppress and crush you" or "they will oppress you continually" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:34

you will become insane by what you have to see happen

"what you see will make you go crazy"

Deuteronomy 28:35

from which you cannot be cured

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that no one will be able to cure" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:36

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:37

of horror, a proverb, and a byword, among all the peoples where Yahweh will lead you away

Here the words "proverb" and "byword" mean basically the same thing. This can be translated as a new sentence. Alternate translation: "of horror. The people, in the places where Yahweh will send you, will make up proverbs and bywords about you" or "of horror. Yahweh will send you to peoples who will laugh at you and ridicule you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

byword

a word or phrase that people use to shame others

Deuteronomy 28:38

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

but will gather little seed in

"but will harvest very little food"

Deuteronomy 28:39

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 28:40

General Information:

Moses continues describing God's curses if the people disobey him. He speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

but you will not rub any of the oil on yourself

People would rub olive oil on themselves to make their skin healthy.

your olive trees will drop their fruit

You may need to make explicit that the fruit drops before it is ripe. Alternate translation: "your olive trees will drop their fruit before the fruit is ripe" or "the olives will fall off your olive trees before they are ripe" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:41

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 28:42

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:43

The foreigner who is

This does not mean a specific foreigner but refers to foreigners in general. Alternate translation: "The foreigners who are" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

rise up above you higher and higher; you yourself will come down lower and lower

This idiom means foreigners will have more power, money, and honor than the Israelites. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:44

He will ... to him

This does not mean a specific foreigner (verse 43) but refers to foreigners in general. Alternate translation: "They will ... to them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

he will be the head, and you will be the tail

This means foreigners will have more power and authority than the Israelites. See how you translated a similar phrase in Deuteronomy 28:13. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:45

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

All these curses will come on you and will pursue and overtake you until you are destroyed

Moses describes the curses as a person who would attack them by surprise or chase and catch them. See how you translated something similar in Deuteronomy 28:2. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will curse you like this in ways that will completely surprise you, and it will be as if he is chasing you and you cannot escape having him curse you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

to the voice of Yahweh your God

Here the words "voice of Yahweh" are a metonym for what Yahweh said. Alternate translation: "to what Yahweh your God said" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

his commandments and his regulations

The words "commandments" and "regulations" are a doublet for "all that Yahweh has commanded you to do." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:46

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 28:47

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

joyfulness and gladness of heart

Here "joyfulness" and "gladness of heart" mean the same thing. They emphasize that the people should have been very glad to worship Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:48

He will put a yoke of iron on your neck

This is a metaphor for Yahweh allowing the enemy to treat the Israelites cruelly and make them slaves. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:49

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

from far away, from the ends of the earth

These two phrases mean the same thing and emphasize that the enemy will come from a nation that is very far away from Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

from the ends of the earth

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "from places that you know nothing about" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

like an eagle flies to its victim

This means the enemy will come suddenly and the Israelites will not be able to stop them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:50

a nation with a fierce face that does not respect the aged and does not show favor

The word "nation" is a metonym for the people of that nation. Alternate translation: "a nation whose people have fierce expressions, who do not respect the aged and do not show favor" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:51

until you are destroyed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "until they destroy you" or "until they leave you with nothing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:52

General Information:

Moses continues describing the army that will attack the Israelites if they do not obey Yahweh. He speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

you in all your city gates

Here the phrase "city gates" represents a city. Alternate translation: "your cities" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:53

the fruit of your own body, the flesh of your sons and of your daughters

Here "the flesh of your sons and of your daughters" explains the metaphor "the fruit of your own body." The people will be so hungry after the enemy army surrounds their city that they will eat their own children. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

the fruit of your own body

This speaks of children as if they were fruit that was produced by the bodies of their parents. Alternate translation: "your own children" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:54

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

who is tender and very delicate among you—he

"who is tender and very delicate among you—even he." Moses is saying that not only those one would expect to eat their children, but even the last person one would expect to eat his own children will eat his children.

Deuteronomy 28:55

all your city gates

Here "city gates" represents the cities themselves. Alternate translation: "all your cities" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:56

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

The tender and delicate woman among you ... tenderness—she

"The tender and delicate woman among you ... tenderness—even she." Moses is saying that not only those one would expect to eat their children, but even women of noble birth and normally very gentle, whom one would never expect to eat their children, will eat their children. The word "you" here is singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

who would not venture to put the bottom of her foot on the ground for delicateness and tenderness

Moses is exaggerating. He is emphasizing that this noble woman is so rich and lives in such luxury that she would not allow herself to get dirty. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

for delicateness and tenderness

The abstract nouns "delicateness" and "tenderness" can be stated as adjectives. Alternate translation: "because she is so delicate and tender" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:57

within your city gates

Here "city gates" represents the cities themselves. Alternate translation: "within your cities" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:58

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

that are written

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that I have written" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

this glorious and fearful name, Yahweh your God

Here the metonym "name" refers to Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: "Yahweh your God who is glorious and awesome" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:59

Yahweh will make your plagues terrible, and those of your descendants

"Yahweh will send terrible plagues on you and your descendants" or "Yahweh will make sure that you and your descendants suffer from terrible plagues"

Deuteronomy 28:60

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

He will bring on you again all the diseases of Egypt

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "He will make sure that you again suffer from the diseases of Egypt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

they will cling to you

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "the diseases will not stop, and no one will be able to heal you of them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:61

every sickness and plague that is not written

Here "every" is a generalization that means "many." This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "even other sicknesses and plagues that I have not written" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

until you are destroyed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "until he has destroyed you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:62

You will be left ... you were like ... you did not listen

Moses is speaking to the Israelites as a group, so all instances of "you" are plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

you were like the stars of the heavens in number

This means that in the past there were many Israelites. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

to the voice of Yahweh

Here the metonym "voice of Yahweh" refers to what Yahweh says. Alternate translation: "to what Yahweh says" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:63

Yahweh once rejoiced over you ... multiplying you ... rejoice over you in making you perish and in destroying you. You will be plucked

Moses is speaking to the Israelites as a group, so all instances of "you" are plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Yahweh once rejoiced over you in doing you good, and in multiplying you

"Yahweh once enjoyed doing you good and causing you to become many"

he will rejoice over you in making you perish

"he will enjoy making you die"

You will be plucked off the land that you are going into to possess

Moses uses a metaphor to speak of the people as though they were fruit that Yahweh would take off a bush. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "He will remove you from the land which you are entering to possess" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

you are going

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the word "you" is singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:64

scatter you ... you will worship ... you have not known ... you nor your ancestors

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

from the one end of the earth to the other end of the earth

These two extremes together mean everywhere on earth. Alternate translation: "throughout the earth" or "all over the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:65

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

there will be no rest for the bottoms of your feet

Here the phrase "the bottoms of your feet" refer to the whole person. Alternate translation: "you will have to continually wander because you have no permanent home where you can rest" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Yahweh will give you there a trembling heart, failing eyes, and a soul that mourns

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will cause you to be afraid, without hope, and sad" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:66

Your life will hang in doubt before you

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "You will not know whether you will live or die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:67

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

because of the fear in your hearts

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "because of the fear you are feeling" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the things your eyes will have to see

Here "eyes" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: "the terrifying things I will force you to see" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 28:68

I had said

Here "I" refers to Yahweh.

Deuteronomy 29

Deuteronomy 29:intro-0

Deuteronomy 29 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is a retelling of the covenant Yahweh made with Moses, along with its blessings and cursing. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/covenant.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/bless.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/curse.md]])

Deuteronomy 29:1

These are the words that Yahweh commanded Moses to tell

This refers to words that Moses is about to speak.

in the land of Moab

This is on the east side of the Jordan where the Israelites were staying before they entered the land of Canaan. "while they were in the land of Moab"

words that were added to the covenant ... at Horeb

These additional commands were given to make Yahweh's covenant apply better to the people once they were settled in their new land. These new commands did not belong to a different covenant, but rather were additions to the original covenant.

Deuteronomy 29:2

You have seen everything that Yahweh did before your eyes

Yahweh expected them to remember what Yahweh had done and they had seen it. Here the "eyes" represent the whole person and emphasize what the person has seen. Alternate translation: "You have seen all that Yahweh did so that you would see and remember what he did" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

your eyes

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the word "your" here is singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 29:3

the great sufferings that your eyes saw

Here "eyes" emphasizes that Yahweh expected them to remember that they had seen it. Alternate translation: "you saw for yourselves that the people suffered terribly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

the signs, and those great wonders

The words "signs" and "wonders" both refer to the plagues that Yahweh had sent upon Egypt. Alternate translation: "and all of the powerful things that Yahweh did" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 29:4

Yahweh has not given you a heart to know, eyes to see, or ears to hear

The people do have hearts, eyes, and ears. This metonym says that Yahweh has not enabled them to understand from what they saw and heard who Yahweh is, and how and why they should obey him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

given you a heart to know

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "enabled you to understand" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 29:5

I have led you

Yahweh is speaking to the people of Israel.

forty years

"40 years" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

your sandals ... your feet

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the word "your" here is singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 29:6

other alcoholic drinks

Alcoholic drinks made probably from fermented grains. They were not distilled liquors.

Deuteronomy 29:7

Sihon, the king of Heshbon, and Og, the king of Bashan

See how you translated these names in Deuteronomy 1:4.

came out against us

Here "us" refers to Moses and the people of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 29:8

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 29:9

keep the words of this covenant and do them

These two phrases mean the same thing and emphasize that the people were to obey Yahweh's commands. Alternate translation: "obey all the words of this covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 29:10

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Deuteronomy 29:11

among you in your camp ... your wood ... your water

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

the foreigner who is among you in your camp, from him who cuts your wood to him who draws

There were many foreigners among the Israelites. Alternate translation: "the foreigners who are among you in your camp, from those who cut your wood to those who get your water" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 29:12

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

to enter into the covenant of Yahweh your God and into the oath that Yahweh your God is making with you today

"to agree to the covenant and to swear that you will obey all that Yahweh your God commands"

Deuteronomy 29:13

a people for himself

"a people group that belongs to him alone"

Deuteronomy 29:14

I am making

Here "I" refers to Yahweh. "Yahweh is making"

Deuteronomy 29:15

standing here with us

Here "us" refers to Moses and the people of Israel.

those who are not here

"our future descendants, who are not here"

Deuteronomy 29:16

we lived

"we were slaves"

Deuteronomy 29:17

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 29:18

whose heart is turning away today from Yahweh our God

Here "heart" refers to the whole person, and "turning away" means to stop obeying. Alternate translation: "who no longer obeys Yahweh our God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

any root that produces gall and wormwood

Moses speaks of someone who secretly worships another God as if he were a root, and the evil deeds he does to serve that god, and which he encourages others to do, as a bitter plant that poisons people. Alternate translation: "any person who worships idols and causes others to disobey Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 29:19

that person

The person described in verse 18.

bless himself in his heart

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "congratulate himself" or "encourage himself" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

though I walk in the stubbornness of my heart

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "even though I still refuse to obey Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

This would destroy the wet together with the dry

Here the words "wet" and "dry" are metaphors for the righteous people and the wicked people. This forms a merism for "everyone." Alternate translation: "This would cause Yahweh to destroy both the righteous people and the wicked people in the land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

wet ... dry

These nominal adjectives can be translated as nouns. Because the land was usually dry and the people needed rain so their crops would grow, these words are metaphors for "living ... dead" or "good ... bad." Alternate translation: "wet things ... dry things" or "good people ... bad people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 29:20

the anger of Yahweh and his jealousy will smolder

Just as a fire can grow in intensity, so can God's anger and Jealousy grow in intensity. Alternate translation: "Yahweh's jealous anger will grow like a fire" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the anger of Yahweh and his jealousy

Here the word "jealousy" describes "the anger of Yahweh." Alternate translation: Yahweh's jealous anger" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hendiadys/01.md]])

that are written

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that I have written" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the curses that are written in this book will come on him

Moses describes the curses as a person who would attack them by surprise. See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 28:15. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will curse him with the curses written in this book in ways that will completely surprise him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Yahweh will blot out his name from under heaven

This means God will completely destroy the person and his family. In the future people will not remember him. A similar phrase appears in Deuteronomy 7:24.

Deuteronomy 29:21

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 29:22

The generation to come, your children who will rise up after you

The words "your children ... after you" tell who "the generation to come" is.

Deuteronomy 29:23

when they see that the whole land has become sulfur and burning salt

People put sulfur and salt on the soil to keep anything from growing. "when they see that Yahweh has burned the land with sulfur and salt"

where nothing is sown or bears fruit

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "where no one can sow seed and the crops do not bear fruit" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

like the overthrow of Sodom and Gomorrah

The abstract noun "overthrow" can be translated as a clause. Alternate translation: "as when Yahweh completely destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah"

Admah and Zeboyim

These are names of cities that Yahweh destroyed along with Sodom and Gomorrah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 29:24

they will say together with all the other nations ... mean?

This can be translated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: "they will ask with all the other nations why Yahweh has done this to the land, and what the heat of this great anger means." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotations/01.md]])

they will say together with all the other nations

"your descendants and the people of all the other nations will say"

What does the heat of this great anger mean?

The writer is communicating one idea through two words. Alternate translation: "What does this terrible anger mean?" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hendiadys/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 29:25

It is because they abandoned the covenant of Yahweh, the God of their ancestors

This is the answer to "Why has Yahweh done this to this land?" (Deuteronomy 29:24). "Yahweh has done this to the land because the Israelites did not follow the promises and the laws of his covenant"

Deuteronomy 29:26

served other gods and bowed down to them

"obeyed other gods and worshiped them"

Deuteronomy 29:27

the anger of Yahweh has been kindled against this land

Moses compares Yahweh being angry to someone starting a fire. This emphasizes God's power to destroy whatever makes him angry, and it can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh has became very angry with this land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

this land, so as to bring on it

Here "land" is a metonym representing the people. Alternate translation: "the people of this land, so as to bring on them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

that are written

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that I have written" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 29:28

Yahweh has uprooted them from their land ... and has thrown them

Israel is compared to a bad plant that Yahweh has pulled up and thrown out of a garden. Alternate translation: "Yahweh has removed them from their land ... and has forced them to go" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in anger, in wrath, and in great fury

The words "anger" and "wrath" and "fury" mean basically the same thing and emphasize the great intensity of Yahweh's anger. Alternate translation: "in extremely great anger" or "because he was extremely angry" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 29:29

The secret matters belong alone to Yahweh our God

"Some things Yahweh our God has not revealed, and only he knows them"

that are revealed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that he has revealed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

we may do all the words of this law

"we may do everything that this law commands us to do"

Deuteronomy 30

Deuteronomy 30:intro-0

Deuteronomy 30 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Moses begins to give final instructions to Israel before his death in anticipation of their entrance into the Promised Land. There were warnings and blessings associated with the people's obedience to the covenant Yahweh made with Moses. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/promisedland.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/bless.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/covenant.md]])

Deuteronomy 30:1

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

When all these things have come on you

Here "these things" refer to the blessings and curses described in chapters 28-29. The phrase "have come on you" is an idiom that means to happen. Alternate translation: "When all these things happen to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

that I have set before you

This speaks of the blessings and curses that Moses told the people as if they were objects that he set in front of them. Alternate translation: "that I have just now told you about" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

call them to mind

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "remember them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

among all the other nations

"while you are living in the other nations"

has driven you

"has forced you to go"

Deuteronomy 30:2

obey his voice

Here "voice" is referring to what Yahweh says. Alternate translation: "obey what he says" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

with all your heart and with all your soul

Here "heart" and "soul" are metonyms for a person's inner being. These two phrases are used together to mean "completely" or "earnestly." See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 4:29. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 30:3

reverse your captivity

"free you from your captivity." The abstract noun "captivity" can be translated as a verbal clause. Alternate translation: "free you from those who had captured you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 30:4

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

If any of your exiled people are in the farthest places

"Even those of your exiled people who are in the farthest places"

under the heavens

"under the sky" or "on the earth"

Deuteronomy 30:5

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 30:6

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

circumcise your heart

This is not a literal removal of flesh. It means God will remove their sin and enable them to love and obey him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

with all your heart and with all your soul

Deuteronomy 30:7

will put all these curses on your enemies

Moses speaks of curses as though they were a load or a cover that someone could physically put on top of a person. Alternate translation: "will cause your enemies to suffer from these curses" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 30:8

obey the voice of Yahweh

Here "voice" means what Yahweh says. Alternate translation: "obey what Yahweh says" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 30:9

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

the work of your hand

Here "hand" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: "in all the work you do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

in the fruit of your womb ... in the fruit of your livestock ... in the fruit of your ground

These three phrases are idioms for "in children ... in calves ... in crops." See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 28:4. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 30:10

that are written

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that I have written" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

with all your heart and all your soul

Deuteronomy 30:11

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

neither is it too far for you to reach

Moses speaks of being able to understand what a commandment requires a person to do as if it were that person being able to reach a physical object. Alternate translation: "neither is it too difficult for you to understand what Yahweh requires you to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 30:12

Who will go up for us to heaven and bring it down to us and make us able to hear it, so that we may do it?

Here Moses uses a rhetorical question to emphasize that the people of Israel think that Yahweh's commands are too difficult for them to know. This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Someone must travel to heaven to learn God's commands and then return to tell us what they are so we can obey them." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 30:13

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Who will go over the sea for us and bring it to us and make us to hear it, so that we may do it?

This rhetorical question continues the idea that the people of Israel think Yahweh's commands are too difficult to know. This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Someone must travel across the sea to learn God's commands and then return and tell us what they are." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 30:14

in your mouth and your heart

This means that the people already know God's commands and can tell them to others. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 30:15

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

I have placed before you

Putting something where another person can see it is a metaphor for telling someone about something. Alternate translation: "I have told you about" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

life and good, death and evil

You can make clear the implicit information. Alternate translation: "what is good and will cause you to live, and what is evil and will cause you to die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 30:16

multiply

increase greatly in number

Deuteronomy 30:17

General Information:

Moses continues to speak to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

if your heart turns away ... but instead are drawn away and bow down to other gods and worship them

Here "heart" refers to the whole person. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "if you stop being loyal to God ... and the people living in the land convince you to bow down and worship other gods" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 30:18

to you today that you ... you will not prolong your days

Moses speaks to the Israelites as a group. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

prolong your days

Deuteronomy 30:19

General Information:

I call heaven and earth to witness

Possible meanings are 1) Moses is calling on all those who live in heaven and earth to be witnesses to what he says, or 2) Moses is speaking to heaven and earth as if they are people, and he is calling them to be witnesses to what he says (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/01.md]])

to witness against you

"to be willing to say that you have done evil things"

against you today

Moses speaks to the Israelites as a group. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 30:20

obey his voice

Here "voice" refers to what Yahweh says. Alternate translation: "obey what he says" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

to cling to him

"to rely on him"

For he is your life and the length of your days

These phrases have the same meaning and are metonyms for Yahweh, emphasizing that he is the one who gives life and determines the length of people's lifetimes. Alternate translation: "Yahweh is the only one who can enable you to live a long life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the land that Yahweh swore to your ancestors, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them

"the land that Yahweh swore that he would give to your ancestors, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob"

Deuteronomy 31

Deuteronomy 31:intro-0

Deuteronomy 31 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Final instructions

In the Ancient Near East, it was common for an important leader to give instructions for his people to follow after his death. In this chapter, Moses begins his final words to the people of Israel. These are words that he wants them to remember long after he is gone. This section also helped to make a smooth transition to Joshua's leadership.

Deuteronomy 31:1

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 31:2

one hundred twenty years old

"120 years old" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

I can no more go out and come in

Here the extremes "go out" and "come in" used together mean that Moses can no longer do what a healthy person can do. Alternate translation: "I am no longer able to go everywhere that you need to go, so I cannot be your leader any longer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 31:3

your God ... before you ... before you ... you will dispossess ... before you

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

you will dispossess them

"you will take their land"

Joshua, he will go over before you, as Yahweh has spoken

"Joshua will lead you across the river, as Yahweh promised"

Deuteronomy 31:4

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the Israelites.

he did to Sihon and to Og, the kings of the Amorites

Here "Sihon" and "Og" refer to two Kings of the Amorites and their armies. See how you translated these names in Deuteronomy 1:4. Alternate translation: "he did to Sihon and Og, the kings of the Amorites, and to their armies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 31:5

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 31:6

Be strong and of good courage

"Be strong and courageous"

fear not, and do not be afraid of them

"do not fear them at all"

Yahweh your God ... with you ... fail you nor forsake you

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

he will not fail you nor forsake you

This can be treated as litotes and translated positively. Alternate translation: "he will always fulfill his promise to you and will always be with you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 31:7

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

in the sight of all Israel

This means that all of the people of Israel were present. Alternate translation: "in the presence of all the Israelites" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Be strong and of good courage

"Be strong and courageous." See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 31:5.

you will cause them to inherit it

"you will help them take the land"

Deuteronomy 31:8

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 31:9

gave it out to the priests, the sons of Levi

"gave it out to the Levites, who are the priests"

Deuteronomy 31:10

seven years

"7 years" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

fixed for the cancellation of debts

"for canceling debts"

Festival of Shelters

Other names for this festival are "Feast of Tabernacles," "Festival of Booths," and "Feast of the Ingathering." During harvest, farmers would set up temporary shelters in the field. This festival took place after the last harvest of the year. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 16:13.

Deuteronomy 31:11

Yahweh your God ... you will read

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

in their hearing

"so that they can hear it"

Deuteronomy 31:12

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the priests and the elders.

your foreigner who is within your city gates

Here "city gates" represents the cities themselves. Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the instances of "your" here are singular. Alternate translation: "your foreigners who live in your cities" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

keep all the words of this law

"carefully obey all the commands in this law"

Deuteronomy 31:13

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 31:14

Look, the

"Pay attention to what I am about to tell you. The"

Deuteronomy 31:15

a pillar of cloud

This was a thick cloud of smoke in the shape of an upright column.

Deuteronomy 31:16

Look, you

"Pay attention to what I am going to tell you. You"

you will sleep with your fathers

This is a polite way to say "you will die." Alternate translation: "you will die and join your ancestors who have died before you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

will rise up and act like a prostitute

Being a prostitute is a metaphor for worshiping gods other than Yahweh. Alternate translation: "will start to be unfaithful to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 31:17

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses.

my anger will be kindled against them

Yahweh compares his anger to someone starting a fire. This emphasizes God's power to destroy whatever makes him angry. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I will kindle my anger against them" or "I will become angry with them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

I will hide my face from them

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "I will not help them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

they will be devoured

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I will devour them" or "I will allow their enemies to devour them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

devoured

This is a metaphor for "completely destroyed." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Many disasters and troubles will find them

This describes the disasters and troubles as if they were human. Alternate translation: "They will experience many disasters and troubles" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Have these disasters not come upon us ... midst?

This describes the disasters and troubles as if they were human. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "These disasters are destroying me ... midst." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

our God is not in our midst

"God is no longer protecting us" or "God has left us alone"

Deuteronomy 31:18

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 31:19

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Moses about the Israelites.

Put it in their mouths

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "Make them memorize and sing it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 31:20

a land flowing with milk and honey

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "a land where plenty of milk and honey flow" or "a land that is excellent for cattle and farming" See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 6:3.

Deuteronomy 31:21

When many evils and troubles come upon this people

Here evils and troubles are described as if they were human and could find people. Alternate translation: "When this people experiences many evils and troubles" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

this song will testify before them as a witness

This speaks of the song as if it were a human witness testifying in court against Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

it will not be forgotten from the mouths of their descendants

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "their descendants will not forget to keep it in their mouths" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

it will not be forgotten from the mouths of their descendants

This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: "their descendants will remember to keep it in their mouths" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

it will not be forgotten from the mouths of their descendants

The idiom "forget it from the mouth" means to stop speaking about it. Alternate translation: "their descendants will not stop speaking about it to each other" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the plans that they are forming

What people plan to do is spoken of as if it were a physical object. Alternate translation: "what they plan to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the land that I promised

God's promise of the land was to give it to the people of Israel. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "the land that I promised I would give to them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 31:22

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 31:23

Be strong and of good courage

"Be strong and courageous." See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 31:5.

Deuteronomy 31:24

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 31:25

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 31:26

witness against you

Moses speaks to the Levites as if they were one man, so the word "you" is singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 31:27

General Information:

Moses continues speaking to the Levites about all the Israelite people.

your rebellion and your stiff neck

Moses speaks to the Levites as if they were one man, so the word "your" is singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

your stiff neck

See how you translated "stubborn" in Deuteronomy 9:6.

how much more after my death?

This rhetorical question emphasizes how rebellious the people were. It can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "you will be even more rebellious after I die." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 31:28

so that I may speak these words in their ears

Here "in their ears" means the people themselves. Alternate translation: "so that I may speak the words of this song to them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

call heaven and earth to witness against them

Possible meanings are 1) Moses is calling on all those who live in heaven and earth to be witnesses to what he says or 2) Moses is speaking to heaven and earth as if they are people, and he is calling them to be witnesses to what he says. A similar phrase appears in Deuteronomy 30:19. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 31:29

you will utterly corrupt yourselves

"you will do what is completely wrong." See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 4:16.

turn aside out of the path that I have commanded you

"stop following the instructions I have given to you." See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 9:12.

what is evil in the sight of Yahweh

The sight of Yahweh represents Yahweh's judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: "what is evil in Yahweh's judgment" or "what Yahweh considers to be evil" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

through the work of your hands

Here "your hands" means the people themselves. Alternate translation: "because of what you have made" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 31:30

Moses recited in the ears of all the assembly of Israel

Here "ears" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: "Moses recited to all the people of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

recited

Possible meanings are 1) "sang" or 2) "spoke."

the words of this song

You can make clear the understood information. Alternate translation: "the words of the song that Yahweh taught him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32

Deuteronomy 32:intro-0

Deuteronomy 32 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetic song in 32:1-43.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Punishment

This chapter prophesies a time when Israel will be disobedient to Yahweh and he will have to punish them. This is meant to serve as a warning to the nation. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:1

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Give ear, you heavens ... Let the earth listen

Yahweh speaks to the heavens and earth as if they are there listening. Possible meanings are 1) Yahweh is speaking to the inhabitants of heaven and earth or 2) Yahweh is speaking to the heavens and earth as if they are persons. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:2

Let my teaching drop down like the rain ... and like the showers on the plants

This means Yahweh wants the people to eagerly accept his helpful teaching. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

distill

Use the word in your language for the process by which dew appears.

dew

water that forms on leaves and grass on cool mornings

tender grass

"new plants"

showers

heavy rain

Deuteronomy 32:3

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

proclaim the name of Yahweh

This is an idiom. "tell how good Yahweh is" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

ascribe greatness to our God

"make sure people know that our God is great"

Deuteronomy 32:4

The Rock

This a proper name that Moses gives to Yahweh, who, like a rock, is strong and able to protect his people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

his work

"everything he does"

all his paths are just

Walking on a path is a metaphor for how a person lives his life. Alternate translation: "he does everything in a just way" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

He is just and upright

These two words mean basically the same thing and emphasize that Yahweh is fair and does what is right. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:5

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. Moses continues to use parallelism to emphasize what he is saying. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

acted corruptly against him

"opposed him by doing what is wrong." See how you translated these words in Deuteronomy 4:16.

a perverted and crooked generation

The words "perverted" and "crooked" mean basically the same thing. Moses uses them to emphasize how wicked the generation is. Alternate translation: "a completely wicked generation" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:6

Do you reward Yahweh in this way ... people?

Moses uses a question to scold the people. Alternate translation: "You should give Yahweh proper praise ... people." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

you foolish and senseless people

The words "foolish" and "senseless" mean the same thing and emphasize how foolish the people are for disobeying Yahweh. Alternate translation: "you extremely foolish people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

your Father ... has created you ... made you and established you

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular.

Is he not your Father, the one who has created you?

Moses uses a question to scold the people. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Yahweh is your Father and the one who created you." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:7

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel.

Call to mind ... think about ... your father ... show you ... your elders ... tell you

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Call to mind

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "Remember" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

days of ancient times

"days of long ago." Moses refers to the time period when the ancestors of the people of Israel were alive.

think about the years of many ages past

This is a repetition of what Moses just said in the previous portion. Moses wants the people of Israel to focus on their history as a nation. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

he will show you

"he will make it clear to you" or "he will enable you to understand it"

Deuteronomy 32:8

gave the nations their inheritance

This is an idiom. "put the nations in the places where they would live." Similar words, "giving to you as an inheritance," appear in Deuteronomy 4:21. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

he set the boundaries of the peoples, as he also fixed the number of their gods

God assigned each people group, together with its gods, to its own territory. In this way, he limited the influence of a people group's idols.

Deuteronomy 32:9

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. As he speaks to the Israelites, he talks about them as if they were someone else and as if they were one man. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

For Yahweh's portion is his people; Jacob is his apportioned inheritance

These two phrases means basically the same thing and and can be combined. Alternate translation: "The descendants of Jacob are Yahweh's inheritance" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:10

He found him ... shielded him and cared for him ... guarded him

"He found Jacob ... shielded him and cared for him ... guarded him" You may need to translate this as if Moses were talking about the Israelites as many people. Alternate translation: "He found our ancestors ... shielded them and cared for them ... guarded them"

howling wilderness

Here "howling" refers to the sound the wind makes as it blows through the empty land.

he guarded him as the apple of his eye

This is an idiom. The apple of an eye refers to the dark part inside the eyeball that allows a person to see. This is a very important and sensitive part of the body. This means that the people of Israel are very important to God and something he protects. Alternate translation: "he protected him as something very valuable and precious" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:11

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

As an eagle that guards her nest and flutters over her young, Yahweh spread out his wings and took them, and carried them on his pinions

This means Yahweh watched over and protected the Israelites while they were in the desert. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

pinions

the outer edges of a bird's wings

Deuteronomy 32:12

led him ... with him

Moses again speaks of the Israelites as "Jacob" (Deuteronomy 32:9). You may need to translate as if Moses were speaking of the Israelites as many people. Alternate translation: "led them ... with them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:13

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

He made him ride on high places of the land

This is an idiom. The word "him" refers to the people of Israel. Alternate translation: "Yahweh made them ride on high places of the land" or "Yahweh helped them take and occupy the land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

made him ride ... fed him ... nourished him

Moses continues to speak of the Israelites as "Jacob" (Deuteronomy 32:9). You may need to translate this as though Moses were speaking of the Israelites as many people. Alternate translation: "made our ancestors ride ... fed them ... nourished them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

he fed him the fruits of the field

"he brought him to a land with plenty of crops he could eat"

he nourished him with honey from the rock, and oil from the flinty crag

The land had many wild bees, which produce honey, with hives inside rock holes. There were also many olive trees, which provide oil, and grow on rocks, hills, and mountains.

nourished him with honey

This is like a mother giving her breast to an infant. "allowed him to suck honey" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:14

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. He speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the word "you" here is singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

He ate

Moses continues to speak of the Israelites as "Jacob" (Deuteronomy 32:9). You may need to translate as though Moses were speaking of the Israelites as many people. Alternate translation: "Our ancestors ate" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

fat of lambs, rams of Bashan and goats

The people of Israel had many healthy herd animals.

Deuteronomy 32:15

General Information:

Moses continues speaking his poetic song to the people of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Jeshurun

Moses speaks of the Israelites as if they were a well-fed animal whose owner named it Jeshurun. You may add a footnote that says, "The name 'Jeshurun' means 'upright one.'" If your language cannot speak of the Israelites as Jeshurun, you may refer to the Israelites as many people, as the UDB does. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

the Rock of his salvation

This means Yahweh is strong like a rock and able to protect his people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the Rock

This a proper name that Moses gives to Yahweh, who, like a rock, is strong and able to protect his people. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 32:4. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:16

They made Yahweh jealous

The Israelites made Yahweh jealous.

Deuteronomy 32:17

General Information:

Moses continues to speak his song to the Israelites. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

They sacrificed

"The people of Israel sacrificed"

gods that recently appeared

This means the Israelites recently learned about these gods.

your fathers

Moses is speaking to the Israelites as many people, so the word "your" is plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:18

You have deserted ... your father ... you forgot ... gave you

Moses is speaking to the Israelites as if they were one man, so all instances of "you" and "your" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

You have deserted the Rock

Here Yahweh is called the rock because he is strong and protective. Alternate translation: "You have left the protective care of Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the Rock

who became your father ... who gave you birth

This compares Yahweh to a father and a mother. This means God caused them to live and to be a nation. Alternate translation: "who fathered you ... who gave life to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:19

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

his sons and his daughters

This refers to the people of Israel whom Yahweh gave life to and made into a nation. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:20

I will hide my face from them

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "I will turn away from them" or "I will stop helping them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

I will see what their end will be

"I will see what happens to them"

Deuteronomy 32:21

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. He continues to quote Yahweh's words. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

They have made me jealous

Here "me" refers to Yahweh.

what is not god

"what are false gods"

worthless things

You may need to make explicit what the "things" are. Alternate translation: "worthless idols" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

those who are not a people

"people who do not belong to one people group"

foolish nation

Translate "foolish" as in Deuteronomy 32:6.

Deuteronomy 32:22

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. He continues to quote Yahweh's words. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

For a fire is kindled by my anger ... foundations of the mountains

Yahweh compares his anger to a fire. This emphasizes his power to destroy what makes him angry. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

a fire is kindled by my anger and is burning ... it is devouring ... it is setting

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I start a fire because I am angry, and it burns ... it is devouring ... it is setting" or "when I am angry, I destroy my enemies like a fire, and I destroy everything on earth and in ... I devour ... I set" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

to the lowest Sheol

"even to the world of the dead"

Deuteronomy 32:23

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. He continues to quote Yahweh's words. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

I will heap disasters on them

Yahweh speaks of bad things that would happen to the Israelites as if they were something like dirt that he could pile up on top of the Israelites. Alternate translation: "I will make sure that many bad things happen to them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will shoot all my arrows at them

Here Yahweh compares the bad things he will make sure happen to the Israelites to someone shooting arrows from a bow. Alternate translation: "I will do all I can do to kill them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:24

They will be wasted by hunger

This can be stated in active form. The abstract noun "hunger" can be translated as the verb "be hungry." Alternate translation: "They will grow weak and die because they are hungry" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

They will ... hunger and devoured by burning heat and bitter destruction

Possible meanings of "burning heat" are 1) the Israelites will suffer from fevers or 2) the weather will be unusually hot during a drought or famine. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "They will ... hunger, and burning heat and terrible disasters will devour them" or "They will ... hunger, and they will die from burning heat and terrible disasters" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

I will send on them the teeth of wild animals, with the poison of things that crawl in the dust

The teeth and the poison are synecdoches for the animals that use these things to kill. Alternate translation: "I will send wild animals to bite them, and things that crawl in the dust to bite and poison them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:25

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. He continues to quote Yahweh's words. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Outside the sword will bereave

Here "sword" represents the army of the enemy. Alternate translation: "When the Israelites are outside, the enemy army will kill them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

terror will do so

Yahweh speaks of being afraid as if it were a person who comes into a house and kills those who live in it. Alternate translation: "you will die because you are afraid" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

young man and virgin, the nursing baby, and the man of gray hairs

These terms describing people of different ages are combined to mean that all kinds of people will die. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:26

I said that I would ... away, that I would ... mankind.

This can be translated as a direct quote. Alternate translation: "I said, 'I will ... away, and I will ... mankind.'" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotations/01.md]])

I would make the memory of them to cease from among mankind

"I would make all people forget about them"

Deuteronomy 32:27

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. He continues to quote Yahweh's words. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Were it not that I feared the provocation of the enemy

"I was afraid of the provocation of the enemy"

the provocation of the enemy

This abstract noun can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: "that the enemy would provoke me" or "that the enemy would cause me to be angry" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the enemy

Yahweh speaks of his enemies as if they are one man. Alternate translation: "my enemy" or "my enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

judge mistakenly

"misunderstand"

Our hand is exalted

Here "hand" represents the strength or power of a person. To be exalted is an idiom for defeating an enemy. Alternate translation: "We have defeated them because we are more powerful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:28

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. He continues to quote Yahweh's words. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:29

Oh, that they were wise, that they understood this, that they would consider their coming fate

Moses states something that he wishes were true, but he knows that it is not true. The people of Israel were not wise and did not understand that their disobedience would cause Yahweh to bring disaster on them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hypo/01.md]])

their coming fate

The abstract noun "fate" can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: "what is going to happen to them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:30

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. He continues to quote Yahweh's words and tell them more of what they would have understood if they were wise (Deuteronomy 32:29). (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

How could one chase a thousand ... Yahweh had given them up?

Moses uses a question to scold the people for not being wise enough to understand why their enemies are defeating them. This question can be translated as a statement as in the UDB. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

How could one chase a thousand, and two put ten thousand to flight

You can make clear the understood information. Alternate translation: "How could 1 enemy soldier chase 1,000 of your men, and 2 enemy soldiers cause 10,000 of your men to run away" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

unless their Rock had sold them

The word "Rock" refers to Yahweh who is strong and able to protect his people. Alternate translation: "unless Yahweh, their Rock, had handed them over" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

their Rock

"The Rock" here is a proper name that Moses gives to Yahweh, who, like a rock, is strong and able to protect his people. Translate "Rock" as in Deuteronomy 32:4. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:31

our Rock

our enemies' rock is not like our Rock

The enemies' idols and false gods are not powerful like Yahweh.

just as even our enemies admit

"not only do we say so, but our enemies say so also"

Deuteronomy 32:32

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. He continues to quote Yahweh's words. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

For their vine comes from the vine of Sodom ... clusters are bitter

Moses compares enemies who worship false gods to the wicked people who lived in Sodom and Gomorrah and to grapevines that produce poisonous fruit. This means their enemies are wicked and will cause the Israelites to die if the Israelites start to act like the people who live around them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

their vine comes from the vine of Sodom, and from the fields of Gomorrah

The vine is a metaphor for the people group. "it is as if their vine were a branch of the vines that grew in the fields of Sodom and Gomorrah" or Alternate translation: "they do evil the same way the people who lived in Sodom and Gomorrah did" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

their clusters

"their clusters of grapes"

Deuteronomy 32:33

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. He continues to quote Yahweh's words. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Their wine is the poison of serpents and the cruel venom of asps

Moses continues comparing the enemies of the people of Israel to grapevines that produce poisonous fruit and wine. This means their enemies are wicked. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

asps

poisonous snakes

Deuteronomy 32:34

Is not this plan secretly kept by me, sealed up among my treasures?

This question emphasizes that Yahweh's plans for the people of Israel are kept secret like a valuable treasure. The rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. It can also be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I know what I have planned to do to the Israelite people and to their enemies, and I have locked up those plans as someone would lock up his valuable possessions." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:35

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. This is the end of Moses's quotation of Yahweh's words that begins in Deuteronomy 32:20. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Vengeance is mine to give, and recompense

The words "vengeance" and "recompense" mean basically the same thing. Alternate translation: "I will have vengeance and punish Israel's enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

recompense

to punish or reward a person for what he has done

their foot slips

Something bad has happened to them. Alternate translation: "they are helpless" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the day of disaster for them

"the time for me to destroy them"

the things that are to come on them will hurry to happen

Yahweh speaks of the bad things that will happen to his enemies as if the bad things were people running eagerly to punish them. Alternate translation: "I will punish them quickly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:36

General Information:

Moses continues to speak a poetic song to the people of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

For Yahweh will give justice to his people

The abstract noun "justice" can be translated as an adjective or as an adverb. Alternate translation: "For Yahweh will do what is just for his people" or "For Yahweh will act justly towards his people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

he will pity his servants

"he will feel that he needs to help his servants"

Deuteronomy 32:37

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:38

Connecting Statement:

This is the end of the rhetorical question that begins with the words "Where are their gods" in Deuteronomy 32:37.

the gods who ... drink offerings?

This is the end of the rhetorical question that begins with the words "Where are their gods" in Deuteronomy 32:37. Here Yahweh mocks the people of Israel for offering sacrifices to other gods. This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Their gods ... the gods who ... drink offerings, have not come to help them." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Let them rise up and help you; let them be your protection

Yahweh says this to mock the Israelites. He knows these gods cannot help them. Alternate translation: "These idols are not even able to get up and help or to protect you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-irony/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:39

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

I, even I

"I, I myself" or "I, I alone." Yahweh repeats "I" to emphasize that only he is God.

Deuteronomy 32:40

I lift up my hand to heaven and say

"I lift up my hand to heaven and swear" or "I have taken an oath." Lifting up the hand is a sign of making an oath.

As I live forever

"As certainly as I live forever" or "I swear by my life which is never-ending." This statement assures the people that what God says in Deuteronomy 32:41-Deuteronomy 32:42 will happen.

Deuteronomy 32:41

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

When I sharpen my glittering sword

"When I sharpen my shining sword." This means God is preparing to judge and punish his enemies. Alternate translation: "When I am ready to judge my enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

when my hand begins to bring justice

Here "hand" represents the whole person. Alternate translation: "when I get ready to judge the wicked" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:42

General Information:

Moses speaks a poetic song to the people of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

I will make my arrows drunk with blood, and my sword will devour flesh with the blood

Yahweh speaks of arrows as if they were people to whom he could give alcohol and make them drunk, and of a sword as if it were a person who was so hungry that he would eat an animal before draining the blood out. These metaphors are metonyms for a soldier using arrows and a sword to kill many enemies. This in turn is a metaphor for Yahweh killing his enemies in war. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

from the heads of the leaders of the enemy

A possible meaning is "from the long-haired heads of the enemy."

Deuteronomy 32:43

General Information:

This is the end of Moses' song. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Rejoice, you nations

Moses addresses the peoples of all the nations as if they were there listening. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/01.md]])

for he will avenge the blood of his servants; he will render vengeance on his enemies

Here "blood of his servants" represents the lives of his innocent servants who were killed. Alternate translation: "for he will take revenge on his enemies, who killed his servants" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:44

recited

Possible meanings are 1) "spoke" or 2) "sang."

in the ears of the people

Here "ears" represents the people themselves and emphasizes that Moses wanted to make sure they heard the song clearly. Alternate translation: "to the people so they would be sure to hear it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:45

reciting

Possible meanings are 1) "speaking" or 2) "singing."

Deuteronomy 32:46

He said to them

"Moses said to the people of Israel"

Fix your mind on

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "Pay attention to" or "Think about" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

I have witnessed to you

Possible meanings are 1) "I have testified to you," referring to what Yahweh has said he will do to the Israelites if they disobey, or 2) "I have commanded you," referring to what Yahweh was commanding them to do.

your children

"your children and descendants"

Deuteronomy 32:47

this is

"this law is"

no trivial matter

This litotes can be stated positively. Alternate translation: "something very important" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

because it is your life

The abstract noun "life" can be translated as the verb "live." You may need to make explicit the metonymy of obeying the law, which represents the law itself. Alternate translation: "because you will live if you obey it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

prolong your days

Deuteronomy 32:48

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 32:49

mountains of Abarim

This is the name of a mountain range in Moab. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Abarim, up Mount Nebo

"Abarim and climb up Mount Nebo"

Mount Nebo

This is the highest place in the Abarim Mountains. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

opposite Jericho

"on the other side of the river from Jericho"

Deuteronomy 32:50

General Information:

Yahweh finishes speaking to Moses.

be gathered to your people

This is a polite way of saying Moses' spirit would join the spirits of his relatives in the world of the dead. Alternate translation: "join your ancestors who died before you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Mount Hor

This is the name of a mountain on the border of Edom. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:51

Meribah

This is the name of the place in the desert where Moses disobeyed God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

wilderness of Zin

This is the name of a wilderness on the southern border of Judah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 32:52

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

Deuteronomy 33

Deuteronomy 33:intro-0

Deuteronomy 33 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetic lines of Moses' blessings in 33:1-29.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Families

Moses gives a series of prophecies or instructions for each of the tribes of Israel and Israel overall. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]])

Deuteronomy 33:1

General Information:

Moses begins to bless the tribes of Israel. Moses speaks the blessing in the form of short poems. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 33:2

Yahweh came from Sinai and rose from Seir upon them. He shined out from Mount Paran

Moses compares Yahweh to the rising sun. Alternate translation: "When Yahweh came from Sinai, he looked to them like the sun when it rises from Seir and shines out from Mount Paran" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

upon them

"upon the people of Israel"

ten thousands of holy ones

"10,000 angels" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

In his right hand were flashes of lightning

Other possible meanings are 1) "In his right hand were flames of fire" or 2) "He gave them a law of fire" or 3) "He came from the south, down his mountain slopes."

Deuteronomy 33:3

General Information:

These verses are difficult to understand. Moses continues to bless the tribes of Israel, which he began to do in Deuteronomy 33:2. Moses speaks the blessing in the form of short poems. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

the peoples

"the people of Israel"

all his holy people are in your hand ... your feet ... your words

The pronouns "his" and "your" refer to Yahweh. Alternate translation: "all Yahweh's holy peole are in his hand ... his feet ... his words" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

all his holy people are in your hand

The hand is a metonym for power and protection. Alternate translation: "you protect all his holy people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 33:4

an inheritance

"a possession" or "a precious possession"

Deuteronomy 33:5

General Information:

Verse 5 is difficult to understand. Moses continues to bless the tribes of Israel, which he began to do in Deuteronomy 33:2. The blessings are short poems. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

there was a king

"Yahweh became king"

Jeshurun

This is another name for Israel. Translated as in Deuteronomy 32:15.

Deuteronomy 33:6

Let Reuben live

This begins Moses' blessings to the individual tribes of Israel.

but may his men be few

Other possible meanings are 1) "and may his men not be few" or 2) "even though his men are few."

Deuteronomy 33:7

General Information:

Moses continues to bless the tribes of Israel, which he began to do in Deuteronomy 33:2. The blessings are short poems. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

to the voice of Judah

Here "voice of Judah" refers to the cries and prayers of the people of Judah. Alternate translation: "when the people of Judah pray to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

be a help

The abstract noun "help" can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: "help him to fight" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 33:8

General Information:

Your Thummim and your Urim

These were sacred stones the high priest carried on his breastplate and used at times to determine God's will. Here "your" refers to Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

your faithful one, the one whom you tested ... with whom you struggled

Moses refers to the tribe of Levi as if it were one man. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

your faithful one

"the one who seeks to please you."

Massah

See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 6:16. Translator may add a footnote that says: "The name 'Massah' means 'testing.'"

Meribah

See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 32:51. Translator may add a footnote that says: "The name 'Meribah' means 'argue' or 'quarrel.'"

Deuteronomy 33:9

General Information:

Moses continues to bless the tribes of Israel, which he began to do in Deuteronomy 33:2. The blessings are short poems. He continues describing the tribe of Levi, which he began to do in Deuteronomy 33:8. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

your word

"your commands"

guarded ... kept

These words both mean to watch over and to protect. They are often metaphors for "obeyed," but here they should be translated literally because they refer to a time when the Levites literally killed people who were rebelling against Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 33:10

General Information:

Moses continues to bless the tribes of Israel; the blessings are short poems. He continues to describe the tribe of Levi, which he began to do in Deuteronomy 33:8. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

your ... your ... you ... your

Moses is speaking to Yahweh, so all these words are singular.

Deuteronomy 33:11

General Information:

Moses continues to bless the tribes of Israel; the blessings are short poems. He continues describing the tribe of Levi, which he began to do in Deuteronomy 33:8. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

accept

be pleased with

the work of his hands

Here the word "hands" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: "all the work that he does" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Shatter the loins of

The loins were considered the center of strength, and are here represent strength. Alternate translation: "Take away the strength of" or "Utterly destroy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

rise up ... rise up

This phrase is used twice as a metaphor. Alternate translation: "rise up to fight ... cause any more trouble" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

rise up against

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "fight against" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 33:12

General Information:

Moses continues to bless the tribes of Israel; the blessings are short poems. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

The one loved by Yahweh lives

Here Moses is referring to the members of the tribe of Benjamin. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "The ones whom Yahweh loves live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

lives in security

The abstact noun "security" can be translated using a verb phrase. Alternate translation: "lives where no one can harm him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

he lives between Yahweh's arms

Possible meanings are 1) Yahweh protects the tribe of Benjamin with his power or 2) Yahweh lives in the hill region of the tribe of Benjamin. In both translations, it means Yahweh takes care of them.

Deuteronomy 33:13

General Information:

Moses continues to bless the tribes of Israel; the blessings are short poems. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

About Joseph

This refers to the tribe of Ephraim and the tribe of Manasseh. Both tribes descended from Joseph.

May his land be blessed by Yahweh

The word "his" refers to Joseph which represents the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "May Yahweh bless their land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

with the precious things of heaven, with the dew

"with the precious dew from the sky" or "with the precious rain from the sky"

dew

water that forms on leaves and grass on cool mornings. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 32:2.

the deep that lies beneath

This refers to the water under the ground.

Deuteronomy 33:14

General Information:

Moses continues to bless the tribes of Israel; the blessings are short poems. He continues to describe the tribe of Joseph, which he began to do in Deuteronomy 33:13. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

May his land be blessed

This can be stated in active form. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 33:13. Alternate translation: "May Yahweh bless his land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

with the precious things of the harvest of the sun

"with the best crops that the sun causes to grow"

with the precious things of the produce of the months

"with the best crops that grow month to month"

Deuteronomy 33:15

finest things ... precious things

Moses is probably referring to food crops. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: "the best fruits ... the precious fruits" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

ancient mountains

"the mountains that existed long ago"

everlasting hills

"the hills that will exist forever"

Deuteronomy 33:16

General Information:

May his land be blessed

its abundance

The abstract noun "abundance" can be translated as a verb phrase. Alternate translation: "what it produces in large amounts"

him who was in the bush

The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: "Yahweh, who spoke to Moses from the burning bush" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Let the blessing come on the head of Joseph

This metaphor is of a man putting his hand on the head of a son and asking God to bless the son. The man here is Yahweh. Alternate translation: "May Yahweh bless Joseph as a father blesses his son" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

come on the head of Joseph, and on the top of the head of him

Here "head" and "top of the head" represent the whole person. Also, Joseph represents his descendants. Alternate translation: "be upon the descendants of Joseph" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

top of the head

Another possible meaning is "brow" or "forehead."

Deuteronomy 33:17

General Information:

The firstborn of an ox, majestic is he

The ox is a metaphor for something large and strong. The word "firstborn" is a metaphor for honor. Alternate translation: "People will honor Joseph's descendants, who are many and powerful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

his horns are the horns of

The horn is a metaphor for strength. Alternate translation: "he is as strong as" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

With them he will push

Pushing with his horns is a metaphor for strength. Alternate translation: "He is so strong that he will push" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

ten thousands of Ephraim ... the thousands of Manasseh

This means the tribe of Ephraim will be stronger than the tribe of Manasseh. Alternate translation: "the people of Ephraim, who number many times 10,000 ... the people of Manasseh, who number many times 1,000" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 33:18

General Information:

Moses continues to bless each tribe of Israel; the blessings are short poems. He speaks to the tribes of Zebulun and Issachar as if they were one man, so the word "your" and the command "rejoice" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Rejoice, Zebulun, in your going out, and you, Issachar, in your tents

The people of Zebulun were located near the Mediterranean Sea. They traveled by sea and traded with other people. The people of Issachar preferred peaceful living and working the land and raising cattle. You can make clear the understood information. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 33:19

There will they offer

"It is there that they will offer"

sacrifices of righteousness

"acceptable sacrifices" or "proper sacrifices"

For they will suck the abundance of the seas, and from the sand on the seashore

Possible meanings are 1) they will trade with people across the sea or 2) they were beginning to use sand in making pottery.

For they will suck the abundance of the seas

The Hebrew word translated "suck" here refers to how a baby nurses at its mother's breast. It means the people will gain wealth from the sea like a baby gets milk from its mother. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 33:20

General Information:

Moses continues to bless the tribes of Israel; the blessings are short poems. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Blessed be he who enlarges Gad

This can stated in active form. Alternate translation: Possible meanings are 1) "May Yahweh bless Gad and give him much land to live in" or 2) "People should say that Yahweh is good because he has given Gad much land to live in" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

He will live there like a lioness, and he will tear off an arm or a head

This means the people of Gad are strong and secure, and they will defeat their enemies in war. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 33:21

General Information:

Moses continues to bless the tribes of Israel; the blessings are short poems. He continues to describe the tribe of Gad as one man, which he began to do in Deuteronomy 33:20. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

the leader's portion

This means a larger piece of land that a leader normally took.

He came with the heads of the people

"They met with all the leaders of the Israelites"

He carried out the justice of Yahweh and his decrees with Israel

"They obeyed all that Yahweh had commanded the Israelites"

Deuteronomy 33:22

General Information:

Moses continues to bless the tribes of Israel; the blessings are short poems. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Dan is a lion cub that leaps out from Bashan

The people of Dan are strong like a lion cub, and they attack their enemies who live in Bashan. You can make clear the understood information. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 33:23

General Information:

Moses continues to bless the tribes of Israel; the blessings are short poems. He speaks of the descendants of Naphtali as if they were one man. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

satisfied with favor

Yahweh being pleased with Naphtali is spoken of as if "favor" were food that Naphtali ate until he was no longer hungry. Alternate translation: "who has all the good things he desires because Yahweh is pleased with him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

full of the blessing of Yahweh

Blessings are spoken of as if they were food that Naphtali ate until he could hold no more. Alternate translation: "whom Yahweh has blessed so that he has all he needs"

take possession

Moses speaks as if the tribe of Naphtali is one man, so these words are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

the land to the west and south

This refers to the land around Lake Galilee. The full meaning of this statement may be made explicit. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 33:24

General Information:

Moses continues to bless the tribes of Israel; the blessings are short poems. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

dip his foot in olive oil

Olive oil was used for food and for the skin of the face and arms. Feet were dirty, so to put the foot in olive oil was to ruin valuable oil. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: "have so much olive oil that he can afford to waste it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 33:25

your city bars ... your days ... your security

Moses speaks to the tribe of Asher as if they are one man, so all instances of "your" are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

May your city bars be iron and bronze

Cities had large bars across their gates to keep enemies out. The meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: "May you be safe from attacks by your enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 33:26

rides through the heavens ... on the clouds

This is an image of Yahweh riding on clouds through the sky like a king on his chariot riding through a battlefield. Alternate translation: "rides through the heavens like a king rides through a battlefield ... on the clouds like a king on his chariot" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

to your help

"to help you." Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the word "you" here is singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 33:27

The eternal God is a refuge

The abstract noun "refuge," which means a shelter or a place safe from danger, can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "The eternal God will protect his people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

underneath are the everlasting arms

The words "everlasting arms" are a metaphor for Yahweh's promise to protect his people forever. Alternate translation: "he will support and take care of his people forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

He thrust out ... he said

Moses speaks of the future as if it were the past to emphasize that what he is saying will come true. Alternate translation: "He will thrust out ... he will say" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pastforfuture/01.md]])

before you ... Destroy

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the word "you" and the command "destroy" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

he said, "Destroy!"

If this direct quotation would not work well in your language, you may change it to an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: "he will tell you to destroy them!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotations/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 33:28

Israel dwelt ... Jacob's spring was secure

Possible meanings are 1) Moses speaks of the future as if it were the past to emphasize that what he is saying will come true, "Israel will dwell ... Jacob's spring will be secure" or 2) Moses is blessing Israel, "May Israel dwell ... and may Jacob's spring be secure." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pastforfuture/01.md]])

Jacob's spring

Possible meanings are 1) Jacob's home or 2) Jacob's descendants. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

let his heavens drop dew

The dew is spoken of as being so much that it is as if it were raining. Possible meanings are 1) Moses is blessing Israel, "may much dew cover the land like rain" or 2) Moses is telling what will happen in the future, "much dew will cover the land like rain." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

dew

water that forms on leaves and grass on cool mornings. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 32:2.

Deuteronomy 33:29

General Information:

Moses speaks to the Israelites as if they were one man, so the words "you" and "your" here are singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Who is like you, a people saved by Yahweh ... majesty?

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. It can also be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "There is no other people group like you, a people whom Yahweh has saved ... majesty." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the shield ... the sword

This merism speaks of Yahweh defending the Israelites from their enemies and enabling them to attack their enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

the shield of your help

The word "shield" is a metaphor for Yahweh protecting and defending the Israelites. The abstract noun "help" can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: "the one who protects you and helps you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the sword of your majesty

The word "sword" is a metaphor for the power to kill with the sword in order to win battles. Alternate translation: "the one who enables you to win battles and so have majesty" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you will trample down their high places

Possible meanings are 1) the Israelites will destroy the places where the other people worship false gods or 2) the Israelites will walk on the backs of their enemies when the Israelites defeat them.

Deuteronomy 34

Deuteronomy 34:intro-0

Deuteronomy 34 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter may have been written by Joshua, since it recorded Moses' death. This chapter officially ends the revelation of the law of Moses, and life in the Promised Land is about to begin again. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/reveal.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lawofmoses.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/promisedland.md]])

Deuteronomy 34:1

Mount Nebo

This is the highest point of Mount Pisgah which is in the northern part of the Abarim mountain range. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 32:49.

Pisgah

See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 3:17.

Deuteronomy 34:2

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 34:3

the City of Palms

This is another name for Jericho. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 34:4

look at it with your eyes

"see it for yourself"

Deuteronomy 34:5

General Information:

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Deuteronomy 34:6

Beth Peor

This was a town in Moab. See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 3:29.

to this day

This refers to the time that this was written or edited, not to the present time in the twenty-first century.

Deuteronomy 34:7

one hundred twenty years old

"30 days" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

his eye was not dim, nor his natural force abated

This means his eyes and body were still strong and healthy.

Deuteronomy 34:8

thirty days

"30 days" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 34:9

son of Nun

See how you translated this in Deuteronomy 1:38.

Joshua ... was full of the spirit of wisdom

The writer speaks as if Joshua were a container and the spirit were a physical object that could be put into a container. Alternate translation: "Yahweh enabled Joshua ... to be very wise" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Moses had laid his hands on him

The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: "Moses had laid his hands on him to set Joshua apart so Joshua would serve Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Deuteronomy 34:10

Yahweh knew face to face

This is an idiom. It means Yahweh and Moses had a very close relationship. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

open-licensed biblical content

Deuteronomy

Deuteronomy front

Deuteronomy front:intro

Introduction to Deuteronomy

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of Deuteronomy

What is the Book of Deuteronomy about?

How should the title of this book be translated?

Who wrote the Book of Deuteronomy?

What are the important features of the Book of Deuteronomy?

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

Why did Yahweh command the Israelites to completely destroy the people who lived in the Promised Land?

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

What is the role of God's name in Deuteronomy?

Can this book be translated before the rest of the Pentateuch?

Deuteronomy 1

Deuteronomy 1:intro-0

Deuteronomy 01 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's victory

# Possessing the land

Links:

Deuteronomy 1:1

beyond the Jordan

Suph ... Paran ... Tophel ... Laban ... Hazeroth ... Dizahab

Deuteronomy 1:2

It is eleven days' journey from Horeb ... to Kadesh Barnea

Mount Seir

eleven

Deuteronomy 1:3

It happened in the fortieth year, in the eleventh month, on the first day of the month, that Moses spoke

fortieth

in the eleventh month, on the first day of the month

eleventh

Yahweh

Deuteronomy 1:4

Yahweh had attacked

Sihon ... Og

Heshbon ... Ashtaroth at Edrei

Deuteronomy 1:5

Beyond the Jordan

Deuteronomy 1:6

spoke to us

You have lived long enough in this hill country

Deuteronomy 1:7

General Information:

Turn and take your journey

hill country ... Euphrates

hill country

lowlands

Deuteronomy 1:8

Look

I have set the land before you

that Yahweh swore

fathers

Deuteronomy 1:9

General Information:

I spoke to you at that time

I am not able to carry you myself alone

Deuteronomy 1:10

as the multitude of the stars of heaven

Deuteronomy 1:11

a thousand times

a thousand

Deuteronomy 1:12

General Information:

But how can I myself alone carry your loads, your burdens, and your disputes?

carry your loads, your burdens

your disputes

Deuteronomy 1:13

men of good repute from each tribe

Deuteronomy 1:14

General Information:

Deuteronomy 1:15

General Information:

men of good repute

of thousands ... of hundreds ... of fifties ... of tens

captains ... officers