Isaiah

Isaiah front

Isaiah front:intro

Introduction to Isaiah

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the Book of Isaiah

Rebuke of Judah and promised restoration (1–5)
Destruction promised for many empires (6–23)
Universal judgment and promise of redemption (24–27)
Accusation of the chosen people of Yahweh (28–31)
Promised restoration of the line of kings descended from David (32–33)
Judgment on Edom and the nations, and the promise of restoration of the ransomed (34–35)
Hezekiah and Sennacherib (36–39)
Comfort promised, comfort, deliverance, and judgment (40–45)
Prophecies against Babylon (46–48)
Redemption of Yahweh's servant (49–55)
Ethics of Yahweh's kingdom (56–59)
Restored Jerusalem (60–66)

What is the Book of Isaiah about?

The first part of the book (Isa 1-39) contains many of Isaiah's prophecies. Some of these prophecies are about how God will send an army to destroy the southern kingdom of Judah. Some of the prophecies are about how God will punish other nations of the world. There is also a narrative section that tells how Isaiah helped King Hezekiah when the Assyrians were about to attack Jerusalem.

The second part of the book (40-66) contains prophecies about how God will later comfort and restore his people. God will accomplish this through his anointed servant. By the suffering of this servant, God will forgive his people (Isa 53). This servant will also cause Gentiles to worship Yahweh. The book ends with a prophecy about God creating a new heavens and earth.

How should the title of this book be translated?

"The Book of Isaiah" may also be called the "The book about Isaiah" or "The Sayings of Isaiah." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

When did the prophet Isaiah live?

The prophet Isaiah wrote down the prophecies in this book about 740–700 B.C., when the Assyrian Empire was becoming more powerful. Isaiah spoke the prophecies from God to the people of Judah during the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, Hezekiah, and Manasseh. The story of Isaiah helping King Hezekiah against the Assyrians is also found in 2 Kings 19–20.

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

What did Isaiah prophesy about the future Messiah of Israel?

There are many passages in Isaiah that Jews and Christians have interpreted to be about the Messiah. In 9:1-7 Isaiah described a child being born who would rule over David's kingdom. In chapter 11, Isaiah described a descendant of David who would have God's spirit upon him. There are also prophecies in chapters 40-66 about "the servant." This servant will comfort the people, rule with righteousness, and suffer so that God will forgive the people for sinning against him. The New Testament writers interpret these prophecies to be about Jesus Christ.

What did Isaiah mean by "the last days"?

The Book of Isaiah was one of the first books to present the concept of the last days, that is, the end times. Isaiah explained that in the last days there would be a future kingdom of Israel. Jerusalem would be its main city. And people from all over the world will go there to learn about Yahweh and worship him.

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

What is the meaning of the term "Israel"?

The name "Israel" is used in many different ways in the Bible. There was a man named Jacob. God changed his name to Israel. The descendants of Jacob became a nation also called Israel. Eventually, the nation of Israel split into two kingdoms. The northern kingdom was named Israel. The southern kingdom was named Judah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/israel.md]])

What are some characteristics of prophetic literature in the Book of Isaiah?

Most of Isaiah's prophecies are put into poetic form. It seems many prophets in Israel used poetry when they spoke important messages that were meant to be remembered.

Sometimes his messages are hard to understand because he assumed his original hearers would know what he was talking about. But, readers today do not always understand what he meant. However, the basic topics about which Isaiah spoke to his audience are still clear to us today. These topics are about how the people sinned against God, how God would punish them, and how he would eventually comfort and restore them.

Isaiah also speaks about the Servant of Yahweh, in four different poems that are today called the "Four Servant Songs." The later Christians understood these very clearly as prophecies about Jesus Christ, the future Messiah. These "songs" are in Isaiah 42:1-9; 49:1-7; 50:4-9; and 52:13-53:12. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/mercy.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]])

Isaiah 1

Isaiah 1:intro-0

Isaiah 01 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in 1:2-31, which is a vision Isaiah receives. These are the words of Yahweh.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Woe

The prophecy of this chapter serves as a warning to the people of the kingdom of Judah. If they do not change their evil ways, Yahweh will punish them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/woe.md]], [[:[[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/evil.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Metaphors

There are many vivid metaphors used to describe Judah's sin. Their sin is described as a sickness that spreads. (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/sin.md]])

# Rhetorical Questions

Yahweh uses several rhetorical questions in this chapter. The purpose of these questions is to convince the people of Judah of their sin. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Isaiah 1:1

The vision of Isaiah ... that he saw

"This is the vision of Isaiah ... that Yahweh showed him" or "This is what God showed Isaiah"

Amoz

Amoz was the father of Isaiah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Judah and Jerusalem

"Judah" refers to the southern kingdom of Israel. "Jerusalem" was its most important city. The names of the places represent the people who live in them. AT: "those living in Judah and Jerusalem" or "the people of Judah and Jerusalem" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah

This is an idiom and refers to the time when each king reigned. They reigned one after the other, not all at the same time. AT: "when Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah were kings of Judah" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 1:2-3

General Information:

Isaiah speaks to the people of Judah in the form of a poem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Hear, heavens, and give ear, earth

Although these prophecies were meant for the people of Jerusalem and Judah to hear, Isaiah knows they will not listen. Possible meanings are 1) he speaks in apostrophe, as though the "heavens" and "earth" would be able to listen to what Yahweh said, or 2) the words "heavens" and "earth" are metonyms and a merism for all living beings everywhere. AT: "you who live in the heavens ... you who live on the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/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-merism/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.

I have nourished ... does not understand

Words that Yahweh spoke and which Isaiah is speaking to the Israelites for Yahweh.

I have nourished and brought up children

Yahweh speaks as if his words were food and as if the Israelites were his children. AT: "I have taken care of the people living in Judah like they were my children" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the donkey his master's feeding trough

You can make clear the understood information. AT: "the donkey knows his master's feeding trough" or "the donkey knows where his master gives him food" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

but Israel does not know, Israel does not understand

This probably means "but the people of Israel do not know me, they do not understand that I am the one who cares for them."

Israel

This is a metonym for the people of Israel. Judah is part of what had been the nation of Israel. AT: "the people of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 1:4

General Information:

Isaiah speaks to the people of Judah in the form of a poem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Nation, sinners

Possible meanings are 1) Isaiah is saying two different things about them. AT: "Nation of Israel, you sinners" or 2) he is saying only one thing about them. AT: "Nation of sinners"

a people weighed down with iniquity

Something very heavy that a person might carry is a metaphor for their many sins. AT: "their sin is like a heavy bag on their shoulders that makes it hard for them to walk" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

offspring of evildoers

The word "offspring" is a metaphor for people who do what others have done. AT: "people who do the same evil they see others doing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

act corruptly

do evil deeds

They have abandoned Yahweh

"They have gone away from Yahweh"

have despised

"have refused to obey" or "have refused to respect"

Israel

Judah is part of what had been the nation of Israel.

they have estranged themselves from him

Though at one time they were friends, they now treat him as though they do not know him.

translationWords

Isaiah 1:5-6

General Information:

Isaiah speaks to the people of Judah in the form of a poem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Why are you still being beaten? Why do you rebel more and more?

Isaiah uses these questions to scold the people of Judah. The questions can be translated as statements. This can also be stated in active form. AT: "You keep doing things that Yahweh has to punish you for. You continue to rebel against him." (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]])

you

Here the word "you" refers to the people who live in Judah and so is plural. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

The whole head is sick, the whole heart is weak

This metaphor compares the nation of Israel to a person who has been beaten. AT: "You are like someone whose head is wounded and whose heart is weak" or "You are like someone whose whole mind and heart are sick" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

there is no part unharmed

This can be stated positively. It can also be stated in active form. AT: "every part of you has been harmed" or "someone has harmed every part of you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublenegatives/01.md]])

they have not been closed, cleansed, bandaged, nor treated with oil

This metaphor compares the punishment God has given Israel to physical wounds. It can be stated in active form. AT: "no one has closed, cleansed, bandaged, or treated them with oil" (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 1:7-8

General Information:

Isaiah speaks to the people of Judah in the form of a poem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Your country is ruined

This can be stated in active form. AT: "They have ruined your country" or "Your enemies have ruined your country" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

your cities are burned

This can be stated in active form. AT: "they have burned your cities" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

your fields—in your presence, strangers are destroying them

"people who are not from your own country steal the crops from your fields while you watch"

abandoned devastation

"empty and devastated." This abstract noun phrase can be expressed as verb phrases. AT: "they have destroyed the land and no one lives there" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

overthrown by strangers

This can be stated in active form. AT: "strangers have overthrown your country" or "a foreign army has completely conquered it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

The daughter of Zion is left

This can be stated in active form. AT: "I have left the daughter of Zion" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

The daughter of Zion

The "daughter" of a city means the people of the city. AT: "The people of Zion" or "The people who live in Zion" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

is left like a hut in a vineyard, like a shed in a garden of cucumbers

Possible meanings are 1) "has become as small as a hut in a vineyard or a shed in a garden of cucumbers" or 2) "is left the way a farmer leaves a hut in a vineyard or a shed in a garden of cucumbers when he is finished with them" (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/figs-explicit/01.md]])

like ... cucumbers, like a besieged city

Another possible meaning is "like ... cucumbers. She is a besieged city"

translationWords

Isaiah 1:9

General Information:

Isaiah speaks to the people of Judah in the form of a poem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

If Yahweh

This describes something that could have happened in the past but did not. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hypo/01.md]])

a small remnant

"a few survivors"

us ... we

Here these words refer to Isaiah and includes all the people of Judah and Jerusalem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]])

we would have been like Sodom, we would have been like Gomorrah

How Judah would have been like Sodom and Gomorrah can be made explicit. AT: "God would have destroyed us, like he destroyed the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah" (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-simile/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 1:10-11

General Information:

Isaiah speaks to the people of Judah in the form of a poem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

you rulers of Sodom ... you people of Gomorrah

Isaiah is comparing the people of Judah to Sodom and Gomorrah to emphasize how sinful they have become. AT: "you rulers who are as sinful as the people of Sodom ... you people who are as wicked as those who lived in Gomorrah" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

What is the multitude of your sacrifices to me?

God is using a question to scold the people. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. AT: "Your many sacrifices mean nothing to me!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 1:31

General Information:

Isaiah speaks Yahweh's words to the people of Judah in the form of a poem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

The strong man

"The strong person" or "Whoever is powerful." This may refer to people who are important and who influence other people.

tinder

dry material that burns easily

his work like a spark

This compares the person's deeds or evil works to a spark that falls on tinder and sets it on fire. AT: "his work will be like a spark that starts a fire" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/quench.md]]

Isaiah 2

Isaiah 2:intro-0

Isaiah 02 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in 2:2-22.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Latter days

This is probably a reference to the "last days." This makes parts of this prophecy reference events near the end of this world. Most scholars expect these prophecies to be fulfilled by Jesus. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lastday.md]], [[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/fulfill.md]])

# Idolatry

While the first prophecy of Isaiah concerned the lack of justice in Judah, this chapter focuses on the presence of idolatry in Judah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/justice.md]])

Isaiah 2:1-2

General Information:

Isaiah speaks to the people of Judah in the form of a poem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Judah and Jerusalem

"Judah" and "Jerusalem" are metonyms for the people who live there. AT: "those living in Judah and Jerusalem" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

in the last days

"in the future"

the mountain of Yahweh's house will be established

This can be stated 1) as a description. AT: "The mountain of Yahweh's house will stand" or 2) in active form. AT: "Yahweh will establish the mountain on which his temple is built" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

as the highest of the mountains

Isaiah speaks of importance as if it were physical height. AT: "the most important of the mountains" or "the most important place in the world" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

it will be raised up above the hills

Isaiah speaks of honor in metaphor as if it were physical height. This can be stated 1) in active form. AT: "Yahweh will honor it more than any other hill" or 2) as a metonym for the people who worship there. AT: "Yahweh will honor the people who worship there more than he honors any other people" (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]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

all the nations

Here "nations" is a metonym for the people of those nations. AT: "people from all the nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

will flow to it

The people around the world going to the mountain of Yahweh is compared to how a river flows. This emphasizes that many people will come, not just a few people. AT: "will flow like a river to it" or "will go to it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 2:3

General Information:

Isaiah speaks to the people of Judah in the form of a poem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Jacob, so he may teach ... and we may walk

Another possible meaning is "Jacob. He will teach ... and we will walk"

he may teach us some of his ways, and we may walk in his paths

The words "ways" and "paths" are metaphors for the way a person lives. If your language has only one word for the ground on which people walk, you may combine these phrases. AT: "he may teach us his will so that we may obey him" (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-metaphor/01.md]])

For out of Zion will go the law, and the word of Yahweh from Jerusalem

These phrases mean the same thing. Isaiah was emphasizing that all nations will understand that the truth is found in Jerusalem. AT: "People in Zion will teach God's law, and people in Jerusalem will teach the word of Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

For out of Zion will go the law

"For the law will go out from Zion." Isaiah speaks as if the law were something like a river that moves without people doing anything. AT: "Those to whom they teach the law will go out from Zion" or "Yahweh will proclaim his law from Zion" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the word of Yahweh from Jerusalem

"the word of Yahweh will go out from Jerusalem." Isaiah speaks as if the word of Yahweh were something like a river that moves without people doing anything. You can make clear the understood information. AT: "Those to whom they teach the word of Yahweh will go out from Jerusalem" or "Yahweh will proclaim his word from Jerusalem" (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-ellipsis/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 2:4

General Information:

Isaiah speaks to the people of Judah in the form of a poem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

He will judge

"Yahweh will judge"

will render decisions

"will solve disputes"

they will hammer their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks

The people of the nations will turn their weapons of war into tools for farming.

swords ... spears ... sword

These words are synecdoches for weapons of any kind. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

plowshares ... pruning hooks

These words are synecdoches for tools of any kind that people use in peaceful activity. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

they will hammer their swords into plowshares

"they will make their swords into tools for planting seeds." A plowshare is a blade that people use to dig into soil so they can plant seeds there.

their spears into pruning hooks

"they will hammer their spears into pruning hooks" or "they will make their spears into tools for caring for plants." A pruning hook is a knife that people use to cut unwanted branches off of plants.

nation will not lift up sword against nation

"no nation will lift up its sword against another nation." The sword is a metonym for war. AT: "one nation will not fight wars against another nation" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

nor will they train for war

"nor will they even train to fight wars." The writer expects his reader to believe that those who fight wars train before they fight and that some who train do not fight.

translationWords

Isaiah 2:5-6

General Information:

In 2:5 Isaiah speaks to the people of Judah, and in 2:6 he speaks to Yahweh. Both times he speaks in the form of a poem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

House of Jacob

"You descendants of Jacob." The word "house" is a metonym for the people who live in the house, the family. Here "Jacob" represents the nation of Judah, but it would be best to use "Jacob" here. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

come

a gentle encouragement to do what the speaker is about to tell the hearer to do

let us walk in the light of Yahweh

Isaiah speaks of people learning and then doing what Yahweh wants them to do as if they were walking at night with a lamp that Yahweh has provided so they can see the path. AT: "let us learn how Yahweh wants us to live and then live that way" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

For you have abandoned your people

"For you have left your people" and do not care what happens to them. Here the word "you" refers to Yahweh and so is singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

they are filled with customs from the east

Isaiah speaks as if the people were containers who were full of something from the east. Possible meanings are that he speaks of 1) the deeds that the eastern peoples do. AT: "they do all the time the evil things the people who live in lands east of Israel do" or 2) people, specifically those who claim to speak to dead people, who have come from the east to do evil deeds. AT: "many diviners have come from the east and now live there" (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]])

omen readers

people who claim that they can tell the future by looking at things like animal parts and leaves

they shake hands with sons of foreigners

Clasping hands together is the symbol of friendship and peace. AT: "they make peace and work together with people who are not from Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 2:7-8

who is proud and raised up

One who is "raised up" is proud and considers himself better than other people. This can be stated in active form. AT: "who is proud and who raises himself above other people" or "who is proud and thinks that he is better than other people" (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]])

who is proud ... who is arrogant

Someone who is arrogant speaks and acts as if he is better than other people. These two phrases have similar meanings and are used together to emphasize that Yahweh will punish them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

he will be brought down

"every proud person will be brought down." This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will humble him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

against all the cedars of Lebanon ... against all the oaks of Bashan

The "day of Yahweh of Hosts" will be against the cedars and oaks. Possible meanings are 1) these trees are a metaphor for the proud people whom God will judge or 2) God will actually destroy these mighty trees. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 2:14-16

General Information:

Isaiah speaks to the people of Judah in the form of a poem. He continues to describe what will happen on the day of Yahweh of Hosts (Isaiah 2:12). (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

against

In 2:14-16 Isaiah lists things that God will destroy. Possible meanings are 1) these refer to prideful people that God will humble or 2) God will actually destroy all these things in the list.

mountains ... hills

These words are metaphors for the pride of the Israelites. They also appear in Isaiah 2:2. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

that are lifted up

This is an idiom. AT: "that are very high" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

high tower ... impregnable wall

These refer to things people would build around their cities so they could defend themselves against their enemies. They are a metaphor for the Israelites' pride and belief that they had no need for Yahweh and could stand against any punishment Yahweh would mete out to them for their sins. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

impregnable wall

"wall that nothing can break down or go through"

ships of Tarshish ... beautiful sailing vessels

These refer to large boats that people used to travel far on the sea and bring back goods to the cities.

ships of Tarshish

"ships on which they go to Tarshish"

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/names/tarshish.md]]

Isaiah 2:17-19

General Information:

The pride of man will be brought low

This can be stated in active form. AT: "He will bring low every proud man" or "He will humiliate every proud man" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the haughtiness of men will fall

The abstract noun "haughtiness" can be translated as an adjective. AT: "those people who are haughty will stop being haughty" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Yahweh alone will be exalted

This can be stated in active form. See how you translated this in Isaiah 2:11. AT: "people will praise only Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

The idols will completely pass away

"All idols will disappear" or "There will be no more idols"

Men will go ... from the terror

The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. AT: "Men will go ... to hide from the terror" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

the caves of the rocks

"the caves in the rocks." These are large rocks, not small stones that can be held in the hand.

from the terror of Yahweh, and from the glory of his majesty

See how you translated this in Isaiah 2:10.

from the terror of Yahweh

because they are very afraid of Yahweh

the glory of his majesty

Here the word "glory" describes "majesty." AT: "the beauty he has as king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hendiadys/01.md]])

when he rises to terrify the earth

"when Yahweh takes action and causes the people of the earth to be terribly afraid of him"

translationWords

Isaiah 2:20-22

General Information:

to the moles and bats

Moles are small animals that dig and live underground. Bats are small flying animals that sometimes live in caves. AT: "to the animals" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

the crevices in the rocks ... the clefts of the ragged rocks

If your language does not have two different words for "crevice" and "cleft," the space that appears between the two parts of a rock when it splits, you can combine these two phrases into one.

from the terror of Yahweh

because they are very afraid of Yahweh. See how you translated this in Isaiah 2:19.

the glory of his majesty

"the great beauty and power he has as king" or "his royal majesty." See how you translated this in Isaiah 2:10.

when he rises to terrify the earth

"when Yahweh takes action and causes the people of the earth to be terribly afraid of him." See how you translated this in Isaiah 2:19.

whose life-breath is in his nostrils

This describes how man is human and weak by emphasizing that he needs to breath to live. AT: "who is weak and will die" or "who needs the breath in his nose to live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

nostrils

the holes in the nose through which people breathe

for what does he amount to?

Isaiah uses a question to remind the people of something they should already know. This question can be translated as a statement. AT: "for man amounts to nothing!" or "for man is not worth anything!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 3

Isaiah 3:intro-0

Isaiah 03 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is a continuation of the material in the previous chapter. Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in 3:1-26, which is a vision Isaiah receives. These are the words of Yahweh.

# Judgment

This chapter is structured as a judgment against the Jews. God is acting as a judge reading the list of convictions against them and then he reads the judgment. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/judge.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Exile

While the previous part of the prophecy in chapter 2 discussed the last days, this part of the prophecy predicts the exile of Judah to Babylon. (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/lastday.md]])

Isaiah 3:1-3

See

The word "see" here adds emphasis to what follows. It can also be translated as "Listen" or "Indeed."

support and staff

Both of these words refer to a walking stick, on which someone leans for support. This idea here stands for the things that people need the most in order to live: food and water. AT: "everything that supports you" or "everything that you depend on" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the mighty man ... the skillful enchanter

This is a list of categories of people that others depend on. Since they do not refer to particular individuals, they can all be translated with plural nouns as in the UDB. AT: "the mighty men ... the skillful enchanters" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

omen reader

These are people who claim that they can tell the future by looking at things like animal parts and leaves. See how you translated this in Isaiah 2:6.

the captain of fifty

Possible meanings are 1) the word "fifty" represents the exact amount of soldiers that the captain led. AT: "the captains of 50 soldiers" or 2) the word translated as "fifty" does not represent an exact number, but is the name of a small military unit. AT: "the captain of a small military unit" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 3:10-12

Tell the righteous person that it will be well

"Tell the one who is doing what is right that I will make things good for him"

the righteous person

This refers to righteous people in general. AT: "righteous people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

for they will eat the fruit of their deeds

Deeds are spoken of as if they were trees giving fruit that can be eaten. The fruit stands for the reward for doing good deeds. AT: "for they will receive their reward for their good deeds" or "for they will receive their reward for the good things they have done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

they will eat the fruit of their deeds

The Hebrew text has these plural pronouns here, but they refer to any righteous person. Translators can choose to translate them as singular: "he will eat the fruit of his deeds."

for the recompense of his hands will be done to him

Here "hands" stands for the deeds that the person has done. AT: "for what the wicked person has done to others will be done to him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

My people ... My people

Possible meanings are 1) Isaiah is talking and "My" refers to Isaiah, or 2) Yahweh is talking and "My" refers to Yahweh.

children are their oppressors

Possible meanings are 1) "young people have become their leaders and they oppress the people" or 2) "their leaders are immature like children and oppress the people." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

women rule over them

Possible meanings are 1) "women rule over the people" or 2) "their leaders are weak like women."

those who guide you lead you astray and confuse the direction of your path

It was common in the Ancient Middle East to speak of a nation's leaders as if they were shepherds. As shepherds lead the sheep along good paths to safety, leaders should teach the people the truth and help them do what is right. Judah's leaders were not doing this. AT: "your leaders are like bad shepherds who lead you away from good paths and do not show you where to go" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 3:13-15

Yahweh stands up for an accusation; he is standing to accuse the people

Isaiah speaks of Yahweh's decision to harm the people as if Yahweh were bringing a legal accusation in a courtroom against the people of Israel. The second part of this line means the same thing as the first part, but it says it a little more completely. AT: "It is as though Yahweh had taken his place in a courtroom and were ready to accuse the people" (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]])

will come with judgment

Judgment is spoken of as if it were an object that one could bring to another person. AT: "will announce his judgment" or "will declare his judgment" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

You have ruined the vineyard

Here "you" refers to the elders and rulers. Yahweh is speaking of his people as if they were a vineyard. Like someone who fails to care for a vineyard so that the vines give no more grapes, the elders and leaders are discouraging the Israelites from serving God. AT: "My people are like a vineyard, and you have ruined it" (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/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the plunder from the poor is in your houses

"the things you have taken from the poor are in your houses"

the poor

This nominal adjective can be stated as an adjective. AT: "those who are poor" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Why do you crush my people and grind the faces of the poor?

Yahweh asks this question in order to accuse the leaders of the people. This accusation can be expressed as a statement. AT: "I am angry with you evil men because you are crushing my people and grinding the faces of the poor!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

crush my people

Making people suffer is spoken of as if it were crushing them with a very heavy weight. AT: "cruelly harm my people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

grind the faces of the poor

Making people suffer is spoken of as if it were rubbing their faces into the ground. AT: "harm the poor and make them suffer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

This is the declaration of the Lord Yahweh of hosts

Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. AT: "this is what the Lord Yahweh of hosts has declared" or "this is what I, the Lord Yahweh of hosts, have declared" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 3:16-17

the daughters of Zion

Zion, meaning here the city of Jerusalem, is spoken of as if it were a woman with her daughters. AT: "the women of Zion" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

with their heads high

This means in an arrogant way. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

flirt with their eyes

Here "their eyes" represents how the women look at men. AT: "try to impress men with the way they look at them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

mincing along as they go

"taking very small steps as they walk"

and making a tinkling with their feet

"so the bracelets on their ankles jingle" or "so the bells on their ankles make a noise"

translationWords

Isaiah 3:18-20

General Information:

This continues to describe how Yahweh will judge the women of Jerusalem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

the Lord will remove

Here what the Lord causes others to do is spoken of as the Lord doing it himself. AT: "the Lord will cause others to remove" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

ankle jewelry

a decoration that women wear on the ankle, just above the foot

head bands

a decoration that women wear over the head and hair

crescent ornaments

moon-shaped ornaments that people wear in the belief that they will protect the person from evil

ear pendants

jewelry that hangs from the ear or over the ear

bracelets

a decoration that women wear on the arm near the hands

veils

a very thin material used to cover a woman's head and face

headscarves

long, thin pieces of cloth that women tie around the head or hair

ankle chains

These are decorations that women wear near the feet. Often the chains hang down to make a gentle noise.

sashes

a piece of cloth that people wear around the waist or across the chest

perfume boxes

a small box or bag containing perfume that women wore on chains or strings around their necks so they smelled good

lucky charms

jewelry that people wear in the belief that it will bring good luck

translationWords

Isaiah 3:21-23

rings

a decoration worn around the finger

nose jewels

a decoration worn in or through the nose

festive robes

a long, loose garment with decorations that was worn over other clothes for everyone to see

mantles

a cloth worn over the shoulders on the outside of the clothes

veils

See how you translated this in Isaiah 3:19.

handbags

a bag to used to carry small things

hand mirrors

a small surface, held in one's hand and used to see oneself

fine linen

a soft cloth worn by rich people

head pieces

a cloth or small hat worn over the hair

wraps

a decorative cloth that a woman would wrap around herself to make her beautiful

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/robe.md]]

Isaiah 3:24-26

sash

a piece of cloth that people wear around the waist or across the chest. See how you translated this in Isaiah 3:20.

a rope

This may refer to a rope that enemies would tie on the people of Judah when they captured them. Or it might mean that Jerusalem's women would have nothing to wear but rough clothing secured with ropes.

well-arranged hair, baldness

"pretty hair, their heads will be bald"

Your men will fall by the sword, and your strong men will fall in war

Falling represents being killed, and the sword represents battle. AT: "Your men will be killed in battle, and your strong men will be killed in war" or "Enemies will kill your soldiers in battle" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Jerusalem's gates will lament and mourn

Here the city gates represent the people who sit at the public places near the city gates. AT: "The people of Jerusalem will sit at the city gates and cry and mourn" (See:- [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

she will be alone and sit upon the ground

Isaiah speaks of the people of Jerusalem, whom no one will save from their enemies, as if they were the city itself and as if they were a woman who sits on the ground because all her friends have deserted her. (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-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 4

Isaiah 4:intro-0

Isaiah 04 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# More women than men

This chapter describes a time when there will be many more women than men in Judah. This is because so many of Judah's fighting men will have died before the exile. Those who come through this difficult time will be a holy remnant. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]], [[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/remnant.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# Branch of Yahweh

Scholars are divided over the possible meaning of this metaphor. Some believe it is a reference to the messiah, while others believe it is a reference to the faithful remnant. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/faithful.md]])

Isaiah 4:1-2

let us take your name

This phrase means "let us marry you." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the branch of Yahweh will be beautiful

Possible meanings are 1) "branch" is a synecdoche that represents the crops Yahweh will cause to grow in the land of Israel. AT: "Yahweh will cause the crops in Israel to be beautiful" or 2) "branch" is a metaphor that refers to the Messiah. (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]])

will be beautiful and glorious

"will be full of beauty and glory"

the fruit of the land will be tasty and delightful for those survivors in Israel

"Fruit" sometimes simply represents food produced in the land, and sometimes it represents spiritual blessings. Possible meanings here are 1) God will cause the land to produce good food again. AT: "the people who are still in Israel will enjoy the best food from the land" or 2) the future Messiah will bring spiritual blessings to the people in the land. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 4:3-4

the one who is left in Zion and the one who remains in Jerusalem

Both of these statements mean the same thing. Here "the one who" does not refer to a specific person but to people in general who are still alive in Jerusalem. AT: "everyone who remains in Jerusalem" (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-genericnoun/01.md]])

will be called holy

This can be stated in active form. AT: "the Lord will call them holy" or "will belong to the Lord" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

everyone who is written down as living in Jerusalem

This can be stated in active form. AT: "everyone whose name is on the list of the people who live in Jerusalem" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

when the Lord will have washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion

This expression speaks of sin as if it were physical dirt. AT: "after the Lord removes the sins of the daughters of Zion as someone washes away filth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the daughters of Zion

Possible meanings are 1) the women of Jerusalem or 2) the people of Jerusalem.

will have cleansed the blood stains from Jerusalem's midst

"Blood stains" here represents violence and murder. AT: "will have taken away those in Jerusalem who harm innocent people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

by means of the spirit of judgment and the spirit of flaming fire

This is how God would remove the sin from Jerusalem. Here "spirit" probably represents the activity of judging and burning. AT: "by judgment and flaming fire" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

spirit of judgment

Possible meanings are 1) Yahweh will punish the people or 2) Yahweh will declare the people guilty.

the spirit of flaming fire

Possible meanings are 1) this is a metaphor that means Yahweh will remove sinners from Zion like a fire removes impurities or 2) "flaming fire" is a metonym that represents the destruction in general of all the sinners. (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 4:5-6

a canopy over all the glory

Possible meanings are 1) a canopy for protecting the glorious city, or 2) a canopy consisting of God's glory that will protect the city. If the first meaning is followed, then it may further mean that the city is glorious because Yahweh is present in it.

canopy

This is a cloth that is hung over something to cover it for protecton.

translationWords

Isaiah 5

Isaiah 5:intro-0

Isaiah 05 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Woe

This chapter presents a series of woes, or judgments against those who are spoken against. Most of these judgements are due to the lack of justice in Judah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/woe.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/judge.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/justice.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Allegory

This chapter begins as an allegory. An allegory is a story with a symbolic meaning. This allegory is meant to teach the Jews that they sinned against Yahweh and that there was nothing more he could have done for them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/spirit.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]])

==Animals being present where people once lived== Verse 17 ("Then the sheep will feed as in their own pasture, and in the ruins of the rich people, lambs will graze") is an example of the Old Testament's prophets' habit of describing complete ruin and desolation in terms of a picture of animals--usually wild animals, but here sheep and lambs--living in or feeding in those places. Whether the picture is of flocks or wild animals, the purpose is to say that the human habitation has gone back to wild nature, and that this has happened because of God's punishment on the people.

Isaiah 5:1-2

General Information:

Isaiah tells a parable about a farmer and his vineyard. The farmer represents God and the vineyard represents the people of Judah, the southern kingdom of the Israelites. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parables/01.md]])

my well beloved

"my dear friend"

on a very fertile hill

"on a hill where very good crops could grow"

He spaded it

"He prepared the soil." This expresson refers to using a tool to dig into the ground to prepare it for planting.

He built a tower in the middle of it

"He made a tall building in the middle of the vineyard to watch over it." Someone would stand at the top of the tower to watch the vineyard and make sure that no animals or people went into it. 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]])

built a winepress

"dug a pit to squeeze out the grape juice." A winepress is a low place carved out of rock in the ground where workers step on the grapes to crush them with their feet, in order to remove the grape juice.

wild grapes

"worthless grapes" or "bad tasting grapes"

translationWords

Isaiah 5:3-4

General Information:

In Isaiah's parable of the vineyard, the owner of the vineyard, who represents God, speaks to the people of Jerusalem and Judah about his vineyard. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parables/01.md]])

inhabitant of Jerusalem and man of Judah

These expressions refer in general to all people living in Jerusalem and Judah, so they can be translated with plural nouns. AT: "all of you who live in Jerusalem and Judah" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

Jerusalem ... Judah

"Judah" was the name of the southern kingdom of Israelites, and Jerusalem was the capital city.

judge between me and my vineyard

The idea of a space separating two things is often used to express the idea of choosing one or the other of those things. AT: "decide who has acted right, I or my vineyard" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

What more could have been done for my vineyard, that I have not done for it?

The owner uses this question to make a statement about his vineyard. This rhetorical questions can be translated as a stataement. AT: "I have done all that I could do for my vineyard!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

When I looked for it to produce grapes, why did it produce wild grapes?

The owner uses a question to say that his vineyard should have produced good grapes. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. AT: "I wanted it to make good grapes, but it only produced worthless grapes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 5:5-6

General Information:

In Isaiah's parable, the owner of the vineyard continues to talk about his vineyard. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parables/01.md]])

remove the hedge

"take away the border of bushes." A hedge is a row of bushes or small trees that have been planted in order to protect a garden or some other kind of area. Here "hedge" probably refers to the thorn bushes that were planted to grow on the stone wall surrounding the vineyard.

I will turn it into a pasture

"I will allow animals to go there and eat." This is a grassy place where animals feed.

it will be trampled down

This can be stated in active form. AT: "animals will trample it down" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

I will lay it waste

"I will destroy it"

it will not be pruned nor hoed

This can be stated in active form. AT: "no one will prune it or hoe it" or "no one will cut off the branches that are not needed, and no one will take care of the soil" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

briers and thorns will spring up

Briers and thorns are often used as symbols of ruined cities and land. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-symlanguage/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 5:7

General Information:

Isaiah explains the parable of the vineyard.

For the vineyard of Yahweh of hosts is the house of Israel

Isaiah states that the vineyard in the parable represents the people of Israel. AT: "For the vineyard of Yahweh of hosts represents the house of Israel" or "The people of Israel are like the vineyard of Yahweh, Lord of the angel armies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parables/01.md]])

the house of Israel

The word "house" is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to the kingdom of Israel. AT: "Israel" or "the kingdom of Israel" or "the people of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the man of Judah his pleasant planting

The people of Judah are spoken of as if they are a vine that Yahweh planted. This can be stated as a simile. AT: "the people of Judah are like a vine that that Yahweh planted for Yahweh's pleasure" (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-simile/01.md]])

the man of Judah

Here "man" represents all the people of Judah. AT: "the people of Judah" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

he waited for justice, but instead, there was killing

This can be changed so that the abstract noun "justice" can be expressed by the verb "do what is fair." The abstract noun "killing" can be expressed as "killed one another." AT: "Yahweh waited for the people to do what is fair, but instead they killed one another" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

for righteousness

The phrase "he waited" is understood from earlier in the verse. It can be repeated to make the meaning clear. AT: "He waited for righteousness" or "He waited for them to do what is right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

instead, a shout for help

The words "there was" are understood from earlier in the verse. They can be repeated to make the meaning clear. The reason people shouted out for help can be made explicit. AT: "instead, there was a shout for help" or "instead, those who were weak shouted out for someone to help them because others were attacking them" (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/figs-explicit/01.md]])

a shout

This expression probably stands for many shouts. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 5:8-10

General Information:

Isaiah announces God's judgment.

to those who join house to house, who join field to field

"to those who take more and more houses, and who take more and more fields." Isaiah assumes that his audience knows that the law forbids someone from taking land from a family permanently. 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]])

Yahweh of hosts

See how you translated this in Isaiah 1:9.

without any inhabitant

"without anyone living in it"

a ten-yoke vineyard

The size of the vineyard is represented by the number of pairs of oxen that could plow it in one day. Each pair of oxen would be connected by a yoke. AT: "a vineyard that is large enough for ten pairs of oxen to plow it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

one bath

"one bath of wine" or "22 liters of wine" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-bvolume/01.md]])

one homer of seed will yield only an ephah

"220 liters of seed will produce only 22 liters of grain." One homer equals ten ephahs. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-bvolume/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 5:11-12

those who rise up early in the morning ... who linger late into the night

This refers to people who do nothing all day but drink alcoholic drinks. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

until wine inflames them

Here the power of wine to make its drinkers drunk is spoken of as if it were inflaming them, that is, setting them on fire. AT: "until they are drunk with wine" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

harp, lute, tambourine, flute, and wine

These musical instruments and the wine imply that the people enjoying these things are celebrating very much.

tambourine

A musical instrument with a head like a drum that can be beaten with the hand. It probably had pieces of metal around the side that sounded when the player shook it. The tambourine was small enough for the player to hold it and shake it with one hand. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

considered

"thought seriously about"

the doings of his hands

This can be reworded so that the abstract noun "doings" is expressed as the verb "done" or "created." AT: "what he has done" or "what he has created" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the doings of his hands

Here the metonym "hands" represents the person who has done something. AT: "what Yahweh has done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 5:13-14

General Information:

These verses tell what will happen to the people because they have disobeyed God.

my people have gone into captivity

In prophecy things that will happen in the future are often referred to as if they had already happened. This emphasizes that the prophecy will certainly come true. AT: "enemies from other countries will take my people, Israel, as slaves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pastforfuture/01.md]])

for lack of understanding

What they do not understand can be made explicit. AT: "because they do not understand Yahweh or his law" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Sheol has made its appetite greater and has opened its mouth very wide

This phrase speaks of Sheol, which stands here for the grave, to an animal that is ready to eat other animals. It implies that many, many people will die. AT: "death is like a hungry animal that has opened its mouth wide to eat up many people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

their elite, the people, their leaders, and the revelers and those who are happy among them, descend into Sheol

The prophet speaks of the future as if it were happening now. AT: "Many people of Israel, their important people and common people, their leaders and those who enjoy wild parties, will go into Sheol" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pastforfuture/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 5:15-17

Man will be forced to bend down, and mankind will be humbled

The phrases used together mean the same thing and are used together for emphasis. This can be stated in active form. See how you translated similar words in Isaiah 2:9. AT: "God will make every person bow down and be humble" (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-activepassive/01.md]])

Man will be forced to bend down, and mankind will be humbled

Future events are spoken of as if they have already happened. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pastforfuture/01.md]])

Man will be forced to bend down

Bending down often symbolizes being humiliated. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

the eyes of the lofty will be cast down

Looking down is often a sign of being ashamed. See how you translated similar words in Isaiah 2:11. AT: "the eyes of proud people will look down in shame" or "people who were proud are now ashamed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the lofty

Here proud, arrogant people are spoken of as if they are high above other people. AT: "proud" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Yahweh of hosts will be exalted in his justice

This can be stated in active form. AT: "People will praise Yahweh of hosts because he is just" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Yahweh of hosts

See how you translated this in Isaiah 1:9.

will be exalted

Being honored is spoken of as if it were being lifted high. AT: "will be greatly honored" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the sheep will feed as in their own pasture

Yahweh will destroy the city of Jerusalem, which was called a "vineyard" in Isaiah 5:1. It will become good for nothing except for sheep to eat grass there.

graze

eat grass

in the ruins, lambs will graze as foreigners

That is, the lambs will graze there. The land will be worthless for any other use. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 5:18-19

Woe to those who pull along iniquity with useless cords and who pull along sin as if it were with a cart rope

These phrases mean basically the same thing. They speak of people who continue to sin on purpose as if they were using all their strength to pull a heavy cart along. God will punish them for their sin. AT: "Woe to those who work hard to sin as a person who drags a cart by a rope" (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-metaphor/01.md]])

those who say

This refers to those who continue to sin (verse 18) and then mockingly challenge God to stop them. AT: "those mockers who say" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-irony/01.md]])

let the plans of the Holy One of Israel come

God's plans are spoken of as if they were objects that could come by themselves. AT: "let the Holy One of Israel accomplish his plans" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the Holy One of Israel

Translate "the Holy One" as in Isaiah 5:16.

translationWords

Isaiah 5:20-21

who represent darkness as light, and light as darkness ... bitter as sweet, and sweet as bitter

Those who do these things are the same as those "who call evil good, and good evil." These things are opposites and people know the difference between them, but some people lie and say that bad things are good. AT: "They are like people who call darkness light and light darkness. They are like people who call bitter things sweet and sweet things bitter" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

to those who are wise in their own eyes

Here the metonym "eyes" refers to their thoughts. AT: "to those who consider themselves to be wise" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

prudent in their own understanding

"think they understand everything"

translationWords

Isaiah 5:22-23

who acquit the wicked for payment

This passage is speaking about corrupt judges in courts of law.

acquit the wicked

"declare guilty people innocent"

deprive the innocent of his rights

"do not treat innocent people fairly"

translationWords

Isaiah 5:24

tongue of fire

"flame of fire" or "flame"

as the tongue of fire devours stubble, and as the dry grass goes down in flame

These phrases mean basically the same thing. God will punish the people described in Isaiah 5:18-23. AT: "as a fire burns up stubble and grass" (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-simile/01.md]])

stubble

"dry grain stalks." This refers to the part of the plant that is left in the field to die after the farmer collects the food.

their root will rot, and their blossom will blow away like dust

Isaiah speaks of these people as if they were a dying plant. AT: "they will die like a plant whose roots have rotted and whose blossom has dried up and blown away in the wind" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 5:25

the anger of Yahweh is kindled

Isaiah speaks of Yahweh's anger as if it were a fire. AT: "Yahweh is very angry" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

He has reached out with his hand against them and has punished them

The prophet speaks of the future as if it had already happened. He does this to insist that the prophecy certainly will come about. AT: "he will punish them with his powerful hand" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pastforfuture/01.md]])

has reached out with his hand against them

Here "hand" refers to God's power and control. AT: "has shown his power against them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

corpses

"dead bodies"

their corpses are like garbage in the streets

The dead bodies are allowed to lie in the streets as if they were garbage. This implies that many will die but that no one will be there to bury them. The word "garbage" can also be translated as "refuse" or "manure." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

In all these things, his anger does not subside; instead, his hand

"Even though all these things have happened, he is still angry, and his hand"

his hand is still stretched out

Here "hand" represents God's power and control. Isaiah speaks as if Yahweh were a person about to hit another person with his fist. This is a metaphor for Yahweh punishing Israel. AT: "he will still be ready to punish them" (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 5:26

He will lift up a signal flag for far away nations and will whistle for those at the end of the earth

Isaiah says the same thing in two different ways. God causing the armies of nations that are far away from Judah to come and attack is spoken of as if he would raise a flag and whistle to call them to Judah AT: "He will call for the armies of nations that are far away from Judah and tell them to come" (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-metaphor/01.md]])

whistle

a loud, high pitched noise a person makes with their mouth to call a person or animal that is far away

they will come

"the enemy army will come"

speedily and promptly

These words mean basically the same thing and emphasize how quickly they will come. AT: "very quickly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/nation.md]]

Isaiah 5:27-28

General Information:

Isaiah continues to describe the army that will attack Judah. He describes it as if it were already existing. (See: Isaiah 5:26)

tire ... stumble ... slumbers ... sleeps

These four words progress from being tired from work to being unable to walk well, to being unable to stay awake, to full sleep, so all four should appear in the translation.

Nor are their belts loose

The soldiers kept their clothes tight so it would easier to move and fight.

the thongs of their sandals

"the straps of their sandals"

their horses' hooves are like flint

"their hooves are like hard stone." Isaiah compares the hard part of a horse's foot to flint, which is a hard stone that can cause sparks when struck. Possible meanings are 1) Isaiah compares their hooves to flint so to describe the frightening image of their feet causing sparks as they run or 2) Isaiah compares their hooves to flint to emphasize how strong their hooves are which enables the horse to do whatever their master want them to do. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

their chariot wheels like storms

Isaiah compares the chariot wheels to storms in order to imply that they will destroy everything in their path. AT: "the wheels of the chariots will spin like a windstorm" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

chariot wheels

These wheels often had sharp blades attached to them that would cut to pieces anyone the chariot passed close to.

translationWords

Isaiah 5:29-30

General Information:

Isaiah continues to describe the army that will attack Judah. (See: Isaiah 05:26)

Their roaring will be like a lion; they will roar like young lions

Both of these phrases mean basically the same thing. Isaiah compares the enemy army to a lion to imply how the sound of their attack will cause the people of Judah to be very afraid. AT: "When their army shouts in battle they will sound like a roaring lion" (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-simile/01.md]])

young lions

A young age is a metonym for strength. AT: "the strongest lions" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

They will growl and seize the prey

Isaiah compares the enemy killing the people of Judah to a lion killing a weaker animal. Possible meanings are 1) lions make a sound not as loud as a roar just before they strike, or 2) the writer is using two words to mean the same thing. (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-doublet/01.md]])

prey

animals that another animal wants to catch and kill

with none to rescue

"and no one will be able to save them"

will roar ... sea roars

These are the same word translated "growl" in verse 29. Use your language's word for the sound of waves in a storm or heavy rain or some other frightening natural sound.

even the light will be made dark by the clouds

Here darkness represents suffering and disaster. This metaphor can be stated in active form. AT: "the dark clouds will completely block the light of the sun" (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 6

Isaiah 6:intro-0

Isaiah 06 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in 6:3-4,7, 9-13.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Heaven

This vision described in this chapter is probably a scene in heaven. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/heaven.md]])

# Isaiah's call

This chapter record Isaiah's call to prophetic ministry. It recognizes the holiness of God and Isaiah recognizes his need for holiness. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/call.md]], [[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/holy.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# Inevitability

The way Yahweh speaks in this chapter shows the inevitability of the punishment of Yahweh against the people of Judah. The punishment must now come. It is too late for repentance. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/repent.md]])

Isaiah 6:1-2

he was high and elevated

The words "high" and "elevated" emphasize that the throne was very high and above everything around it. The height of the throne represents how great and powerful the Lord is. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

filled the temple

"filled the palace." The word used for temple here is often used to refer to the palace of kings.

Above him were the seraphim

The word "seraphim" is the plural of seraph. This means the Lord was seated on the throne and the seraphim were standing or flying near the Lord ready to serve him.

seraphim

This word suggests that the creatures might have a fiery appearance or resemble snakes. Because we do not know exactly what "seraphim" means, you could translate this as "winged creatures" or "winged living things." Or, you can borrow the word and use it in your language. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-transliterate/01.md]])

each one had six wings

"each seraph had six wings" or "each creature had six wings"

with two each covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew

The words "wings" and "seraph" are understood. AT: "with two wings each seraph covered his face, and with two wings he covered his feet, and with two wings he flew" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 6:3

General Information:

Isaiah continues to describe his vision.

Each one called to another and said

"The seraphim called out to one another and said" or "The winged creatures proclaimed to one another"

Holy, holy, holy, is Yahweh of hosts

Repeating the word "holy" three times indicates God is completely holy. AT: "Yahweh of hosts is holy beyond all else" or "Yahweh of hosts is completely holy"

The whole earth is full of his glory

This speaks of the earth as if it were a container and glory were the contents in the container. AT: "Everything on the earth is evidence of God's glory" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 6:4-5

General Information:

Isaiah continues to describe his vision.

The foundations of the thresholds shook at the voices of those who were crying out

"When the seraphim called out, their voices shook the doorways and their foundations"

the house was filled with smoke

This can be stated in active form. AT: "smoke filled the temple" or "smoke filled the palace" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Woe is me! For I am doomed

This can be stated in active form. AT: "I am in great trouble! Terrible things will happen to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

of unclean lips

Here "lips" represent what a person speaks. And, people saying things that are unacceptable to God is spoken of as if their lips were physically unclean. (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]])

Yahweh, Yahweh of hosts

Yahweh, the ruler of the angel armies"

my eyes have seen

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

translationWords

Isaiah 6:6-7

General Information:

Isaiah continues to describe his vision.

seraphim

This word suggests that the creatures might have a fiery appearance or resemble snakes. Because we do not know exactly what "seraphim" means, you could translate these as "creatures" or "living things" or "beings." Or you can borrow the word and use it in your language. See how you translated this word in Isaiah 6:2. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-transliterate/01.md]])

tongs

a tool used for grabbing or holding objects

your guilt has been taken away, and your sin atoned for

These two phrases say basically the same thing. This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh has taken away your guilt and has forgiven your sins" (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-activepassive/01.md]])

your guilt has been taken away

Yahweh no longer considering a person to be guilty is spoken of as if "guilt" were an object that someone could take away from someone else. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 6:8-9

General Information:

Isaiah continues to describe his vision.

the voice of the Lord say

Here "voice" represents the Lord himself. AT: "the Lord say" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Whom shall I send

It is implied that Yahweh will send someone to speak his message to the people of Israel. AT: "Whom shall I send to be a messenger to my people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

who will go for us

It seems "us" refers to Yahweh and the members of his heavenly council to whom he is speaking. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]])

this people

"the people of Israel"

Listen, but do not understand; see, but do not perceive

Possible meanings are 1) the imperatives "do not understand" and "do not perceive" express what God is causing to happen. AT: "You will listen, but Yahweh will not let you understand; you will look carefully, but Yahweh will not allow you to understand" or 2) the imperatives "Listen" and "see" express the idea of "if." AT: "Even if you listen you will not understand; even if you look carefully, you will not understand" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-imperative/01.md]])

Listen, but do not understand; see, but do not perceive

You can state clearly the understood information. AT: "Listen to Yahweh's message, but do not understand what it means; look at what Yahweh is doing, but do not realize what it means" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 6:10

General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Isaiah what he must do when Yahweh sends him to preach to the people.

Make the heart of this people insensitive

Here "heart" represents a person's mind. A person who does not think clearly and is unable to understand and care about what is happening is spoken of as if his heart were insensitive. AT: "Make these people unable to understand" or "Make the minds of these people dull" (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]])

Make the heart of this people

It may be more natural to translate "heart" and "this" as plurals. AT: "Make the hearts of these people"

Make the heart ... insensitive

This command means that Yahweh will use Isaiah's message to cause the people to understand even less and to make them less sensitive to what Yahweh is doing.

their ears dull, and blind their eyes

"make it so that they cannot hear, and make it so that they cannot see." Isaiah making people to not understand Yahweh's message or what he is doing is spoken of as if Isaiah were making them deaf and blind. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears

People being able to understand Yahweh's message and what he is doing is spoken of as if the people were able physically to see and hear. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

understand with their heart

Here "heart" represents as person's mind. Truly understanding something and caring about what is happening is spoken of as if the people were to understand with their hearts. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

then turn

Repenting and starting to obey Yahweh is spoken of as if the people were physically to turn towards him. AT: "follow me again" or "then start trusting in me again" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

be healed

This can be stated in active form. AT: "I would heal them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 6:11-12

Until cities crash into ruins and are without inhabitants, and the houses are without people

"Until all the cities and houses are ruined and no one lives there"

the land falls into a desolate waste

Here "falls into" is an idiom that means to become something worse. AT: "the land becomes a desolate waste" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

until Yahweh has sent the people far away, and the solitude of the land is great

Here Yahweh speaks about himself in the third person. AT: "until I, Yahweh, have sent all the people far away from their land, so that no one is left" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 6:13

it will again be destroyed

This can be stated in active form. AT: "armies will again destroy the land of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

as a terebinth or an oak is cut down and whose trunk remains, the holy seed is in its stump

This simile means that even after Yahweh destroys Israel, he will still set apart people from among the Israelites to serve him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

terebinth

a kind of oak tree (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

trunk ... stump

A trunk is the thick main stem of a tree. A stump is the part of a tree that remains in the ground after the tree is cut down.

the holy seed

The people who will serve Yahweh after armies destroy Israel are spoken of as if they were set apart as a holy seed. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 7

Isaiah 7:intro-0

Isaiah 07 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in 7:7-9, 18-25.

Special concepts in this chapter

# "Young woman"

Some translations choose to translate this as "virgin" and believe it is a reference to the messiah being born of a virgin woman. This is only one possible translation, therefore most translations have avoided forcing this specific connotation into the meaning of the term. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# Israel

In this chapter, Israel is a reference to the northern kingdom of Israel and not the nation as a whole. They are also called Ephraim in this chapter after its most prominent tribe.

Isaiah 7:1-2

During the days of Ahaz ... king of Judah

"When Ahaz ... was king of Judah" This was when the events happened. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Rezin ... Pekah ... Remaliah

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

Rezin ... and Pekah ... went up

The author speaks as if the kings were the armies they led. AT: "Rezin ... and Pekah ... led their armies up" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

to war against it

The author speaks as if the city itself were the people who live in it. AT: "to war against the people of Jerusalem" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

It was reported to the house of David

This can be stated in active form. AT: "the house of David heard the report" or "someone reported to the house of David" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the house of David

The word "house" is a metonym for the family living in the house. AT: "King Ahaz and his counselors" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

that Aram was allied with Ephraim

Here "Aram" and "Ephraim" refer to their kings. Here "Ephraim" represents the whole northern kingdom of Israel. AT: "that Rezin, the king of Aram was helping Pekah, the king of Israel" (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]])

His heart trembled, and the heart of his people, as the trees of the forest shake in the wind

The trembling of their hearts at this news is compared to the way trees shake when the wind blows through them. AT: "Ahaz and his people were very afraid" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 7:3-4

General Information:

Isaiah writes about what happened to him as if it had happened to someone else.

Shear-Jashub

Translators may also add a footnote that says, "The name Shear-Jashub means 'a remnant will return.'" The meaning may have given hope to Ahaz. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

at the end of the conduit of the upper pool

"where the water flows out of the tunnel and enters the upper pool"

conduit

man-made ditch or tunnel through which water flows

road

If your language has a word for a road or path that people have made smooth by filling in the low places and lowering the high places, you can use it here.

Launderer's Field

Possible meanings are 1) this is the proper name by which the people called the field or 2) this is the common noun that the people used to talk about the field, "the launderer's field" or "the field where men wash wool" or "the field where women wash clothes." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Launderer's Field

A launderer is either 1) a man who washes wool that someone has cut from the sheep, "Wool Washer Field," or 2) a woman who washes dirty clothes, "Clothes Washer Field." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Tell him

"Tell Ahaz"

do not be afraid or intimidated by these two smoldering firebrands, by the fierce anger of Rezin and Aram, and of Pekah son of Remaliah

God compares Rezin and Pekah to burning sticks whose fire has gone out and are making smoke now. God is emphasizing that they are not real threats to Judah. This can be stated in active form. AT: "do not let Rezin and Pekah make you afraid; their fierce anger is like a burning stick whose fire has gone out and there is only smoke" (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]])

afraid or intimidated

The words "afraid" and "intimidated" mean the same thing and can be translated as one word. AT: "afraid" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 7:5-6

General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Isaiah what he should tell Ahaz. (See: Isaiah 7:3)

Aram, Ephraim, and the son of Remaliah

The words "Aram" and "Ephraim" refer to the kings of these lands. Also, "Ephraim" represents the northern kingdom of Israel. AT: "Rezin the king of Aram and Pekah the son of Remaliah, king of Israel" (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]])

Remaliah

This is the name of a man. Translate his name as in Isaiah 7:1.

have planned evil against you

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

son of Tabeel

It is unknown who this man is. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 7:7-9

General Information:

Yahweh continues to tell Isaiah what he should tell Ahaz. (See: Isaiah 7:3)

the head of Damascus is Rezin

Here "head" is a metonym for the most important part. It is implied that Rezin is only a man, and therefore cannot stop Yahweh's plan. This can be stated explicitly. AT: "the king of Damascus is Rezin, who is only a man" (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]])

sixty-five years

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

Ephraim will be shattered and will no longer be a people

Here "Ephraim" refers to all of the northern kingdom of Israel. This can be stated in active form. AT: "an army will destroy Ephraim, and there will no longer be a people of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the head of Samaria is Remaliah's son

This means Pekah is the king of Samaria and all of Israel. AT: "the king of Samaria is Pekah, who is a weak man" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

If you do not remain firm in faith, surely you will not remain secure

This can be stated in positive form. AT: "If you continue to believe in me, you will certainly remain safe" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublenegatives/01.md]])

If you do not remain

"Unless you remain"

translationWords

Isaiah 7:10-12

ask for it in the depths or in the height above

Yahweh uses the word "depths" and "height" to mean Ahaz could ask him for anything. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

depths ... height

The abstract nouns "depths" and "height" can be translated with prepositions. "places far below you ... places far above you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

will not ask

"will not ask Yahweh for a sign"

translationWords

Isaiah 7:13-15

house of David

The word "house" is a metonym for the family living in the house. See how you translated this in Isaiah 7:2. AT: "King Ahaz, you and your counselors" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Is it not enough for you people to test the patience of people? Must you also test the patience of my God?

These questions emphasize that the king has sinned greatly. AT: "You test the patience of people! Now you even test the patience of my God!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

the young woman will conceive

Some ancient versions and some contemporary versions translate, "the virgin will conceive," while others translate "the young woman will conceive."

his name Immanuel

Translators may add a footnote that says: "The name Immanuel means 'God with us.'" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

He will eat curds and honey when he knows to refuse the evil and choose the good

Possible meanings are 1) "By the time that child is old enough to eat curds and honey, he will be able to reject what is evil and choose what is good." This emphasizes that the child will be very young when he knows to choose what is right instead of wrong or 2) "By the time the child is old enough to reject what is evil and choose what is good, he will be eating curds and honey." The people of Judah considered a child to be responsible for doing what is right when he was 12 years old. This emphasizes that within twelve years the people will be able to eat much curds and honey because most of the people of Israel will be killed or taken as captives. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

curds

milk that people have treated to make it into a soft solid

refuse the evil and choose the good

Here "the evil" and "the good" refer to evil and good things in general. AT: "refuse to do evil deeds and choose to do good deeds" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 7:16-17

General Information:

Isaiah continues to describe the sign that God will give the house of David.

refuse the evil and choose the good

Here "the evil" and "the good" refer to evil and good things in general. See how you translated this in Isaiah 7:15. AT: "refuse to do evil deeds and choose to do good deeds" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

you dread

"you fear." Here "you" is singular and refers to Ahaz. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

your people

This refers to the people of Judah.

Ephraim seceded from Judah

Here "Ephriam" and "Judah" refer to the people who lived in those regions. AT: "the people of Ephraim separated from the people of Judah" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 7:18-19

At that time

before the child knows to refuse the evil and choose the good (Isaiah 7:15)

Yahweh will whistle for

"Yahweh will call" or "Yahweh will summon"

for a fly from the distant streams of Egypt, and for a bee from the land of Assyria

Here the armies of Egypt and Assyria are spoken of as if they are insects that will invade the land of Israel. This can be stated as a simile. AT: "for the armies of Egypt and Assyria, and their soldiers will be everywhere like flies and bees" (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-simile/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 7:20-22

General Information:

Isaiah continues to describe the time when the army of Assyria will attack Israel.

the Lord will shave with a razor that was hired beyond the Euphrates River—the king of Assyria

The word "razor" is a metaphor for the king of Assyria and his army, and Yahweh speaks of the king as if the king were a man who would do Yahweh's work and then receive money from Yahweh. AT: "the Lord will call the king of Assyria from beyond the Euphrates River to work for him to shave you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

that was hired

This can be stated in active form. AT: "that he bought" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the head ... the hair of the legs ... also ... the beard

It was bad to have someone shave the top of the head; it was worse to have someone shave "the hair of the legs"; it was worst of all to have someone shave the beard.

the head ... the hair of the legs ... the beard

Isaiah does not say whose head, hair, and beard the Lord is going to shave, but Ahaz and the reader would understand that this is a man; the man is a metaphor for the people living in the land of Judah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the head

Here "the head" represents the hair that grows on it. AT: "the hair on the head" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the hair of the legs

Possible meanings are 1) this is a polite way to speak of the hair on the lower body or 2) this speaks of the hair on the legs. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

it will also sweep

"the razor will also sweep." If your language requires a person to be the subject of "will ... sweep," you can say, "the Lord will also sweep."

because of the abundance of milk which they shall give

The abstract noun "abundance" can be translated as a clause. AT: "because they will give so much milk" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 7:23-25

General Information:

Isaiah continues to describe the time when the army from Assyria will attack the land of Israel.

there were a thousand vines ... briers and thorns

"there were 1,000 vines." That is, when Isaiah wrote, there were vineyards, in some of which were 1,000 vines or more each. He says that these vineyards will become full of briers and thorns. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

a thousand silver shekels

"1000 silver shekels." A shekel is a silver coin worth 4 days wage. AT: "1,000 silver coins" (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/translate-bmoney/01.md]])

briers and thorns

The words "briers" and "thorns" both refer to useless, thorny plants. It is not necessary to translate both words. AT: "thorn bushes" or "brier bushes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

because all the land will be briers and thorns

Why the hunters come to these lands can be made explicit. AT: "because there will be nothing in these lands but briers, thorns, and wild animals" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

They will stay away from all the hills that were cultivated with the hoe

This can be stated in active form. AT: "People will stay away from the hills where they once prepared the soil to plant crops" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 8

Isaiah 8:intro-0

Isaiah 08 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in 8:6-18, 21-22.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Trust in Yahweh

Israel will not trust in Yahweh. Instead, they will trust in their own power, their Gentile allies and the power of false gods. They will be punished because the power of Yahweh is greater than all of these. (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/falsegod.md]])

The people imagine there are conspiracies, and it makes them anxious. AT: "Do not worry like this people who think someone is always trying to harm them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

It is Yahweh of hosts whom you will honor as holy; he is the one you must fear, and he is the one you must dread

If you translate this as a direct quote, you can also translate it with Yahweh speaking in the first person: "But you will consider me, Yahweh of Hosts, as holy. And you will fear and be in awe of me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotations/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 8:14-15

General Information:

Isaiah continues the indirect quote of Yahweh that began in Isaiah 8:11-13. It can be translated as a direct quote with Yahweh speaking in the first person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotations/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

He will become a sanctuary

The word "sanctuary" is a metaphor for Yahweh keeping his people safe and protecting them. AT: "He will protect them when they go to him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he will be a stone of striking, and a rock of stumbling

The words "stone of striking" and "rock of stumbling" are both metaphors for Yahweh harming his people. Some translate "striking" and "stumbling" as "stumbling" and "falling"; others translate as "offense" and "stumbling." AT: "he will harm his people, like a stone against which people strike their feet and stumble, and like a rock that causes people to fall down" (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]])

he will be a trap and a snare to the people of Jerusalem

The words "trap" and "snare" mean almost the same thing and emphasize that when Yahweh decides to punish the people of Jerusalem they will not be able to escape. AT: "he will trap the people of Jerusalem so they cannot escape him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

trap

a device that catches a bird in a net or basket

snare

a trap that catches and holds an animal's leg or nose

Many will stumble over it and fall and be broken, and be ensnared and captured

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Many people will stumble over the stone, and when they fall they will not get up. And many people will step into the trap, and they will not be able to get out" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

ensnared and captured

These two words mean basically the same thing and emphasize that they will be caught in the trap. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 8:16-18

Bind up my testimony, seal the official record

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. AT: "Close up tightly the scroll with this message written on it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

my testimony ... my disciples

It is unclear to whom the word "my" refers. It could be Isaiah or Yahweh. It is best to leave the pronouns ambiguous if your language will allow it.

I will wait for Yahweh

Here "I" refers to Isaiah.

who hides his face from the house of Jacob

Yahweh's "face" is a metonym for his blessing or favor. AT: "who has taken away his blessing from the house of Jacob" or "who no longer looks with favor on the house of Jacob" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

house of Jacob

people of Israel

I and the sons whom Yahweh has given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel

"I and the sons Yahweh has given me are like signs to warn the people of Israel." The sons are Shear-Jashub and Maher-shalal-hash-baz, whose names are a message to the people of Israel. (See: Isaiah 7:3 and Isaiah 8:1)

translationWords

Isaiah 8:19-20

General Information:

Isaiah is speaking.

They will say to you, "Consult with the mediums and spiritists," those who chirp and mutter incantations. But should a people not consult their God? Should they consult the dead on behalf of the living? To the law and to the testimony!

Other possible meanings are 1) "They will say to you, 'Consult with the mediums and spiritists, those who chirp and mutter incantations. Should a people not consult their gods? They should consult the dead on behalf of the living for teaching and for testimony.'" or 2) "When they say to you, 'Consult with the mediums and spiritists, those who chirp and mutter incantations,' should a people not consult their God? Should they consult the dead on behalf of the living? To the law and to the testimony!"

They will say to you

The word "they" refers to those who do not trust Yahweh. The word "you" is plural and refers to those who trust Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Consult with the mediums and spiritists

"Ask the mediums and spiritists what you should do"

mediums and spiritists

people who claim to speak with those who have died

those who chirp and mutter incantations

The words "chirp" and "mutter" refer to the sounds mediums and spiritists made when trying to speak to dead people. AT: "those who whisper and mutter their magic words to try and speak to dead people"

chirp

make sounds like birds

But should a people not consult their God? Should they consult the dead on behalf of the living?

These questions are to show that people should consult God instead of foolishly trying to talk to dead people. AT: "But people should ask Yahweh to guide them. They should not seek answers from those who have died." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

To the law and to the testimony

Possible meanings are 1) "Pay attention to God's instructions and teaching" or 2) "Then you must remember the teaching and testimony I gave." (Isaiah 8:16).

the law

This is the same word translated "official record" in Isaiah 8:16.

the testimony

See how you translated this in Isaiah 8:16.

If they do not say such things

"If they do not speak of the law and the testimony"

it is because they have no light of dawn

Isaiah speaks of people who do not know God as if they were people walking in darkness without any light. AT: "it is because they are like a person lost in the dark" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 8:21-22

oppressive gloom

"terrible sadness"

They will be driven into a land of darkness

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will drive them out into complete darkness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 9

Isaiah 9:intro-0

Isaiah 09 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter begins with a prophecy that is a continuation of the prophecy concluding the previous chapter. Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in 9:1-21. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Messiah

The prophecy in 9:1-7 is about the coming messiah. Parts of this prophecy were fulfilled when he first came to earth. Other parts are to be fulfilled when he will return in glory to earth. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/fulfill.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# Fulfillment of prophecies

Some of the prophecies in this chapter were fulfilled in Isaiah's lifetime while others are fulfilled in the distant future. Some scholars believe that there can be multiple fulfillments of each of these prophecies, while others see only one complete fulfillment.

Isaiah 9:1-2

The gloom will be dispelled from her who was in anguish

Isaiah speaks of people who are spiritually lost as if they were walking around in total darkness. This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will remove the darkness from her who was in anguish" (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]])

The gloom

This word means "partial or total darkness." Translate as you translated "gloom" in Isaiah 08:22.

her who was in anguish

"her who was suffering great pain and sadness." This is probably a metaphor for the people of Judah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

In an earlier time he humiliated the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali

"Land" refers to the people who live in an area. AT: "In the past, the Lord humbled those living in Zebulun and Naphtali" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

but in the later time he will make it glorious, the way to the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations

Here "it" refers to Galilee which represents the people who live there. AT: "but in the future, the Lord will honor the people of Galilee of the nations, which is on the road between the Mediterranean Sea and the Jordan River" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Galilee of the nations

Here "nations" represents the people from other nations that live in Galilee. AT: "Galilee, where many foreigners live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

walked in darkness ... lived in the land of the shadow of death

Isaiah speaks of the people living sinful lives and suffering because of it as if they had been walking in a dark or living in a land of shadow of death. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

a great light ... light has shone

Here "light" represents hope and deliverance. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the land of the shadow of death

The phrase "shadow of death" is an idiom that means absolute darkness. AT: "the land of deepest darkness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 9:3

General Information:

Isaiah continues to describe the time when God will save the people of Israel. Although these events will happen in the future (Isaiah 9:1), Isaiah describes them as if they have already happened. This emphasizes that they certainly will happen. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pastforfuture/01.md]])

You have multiplied the nation; you have increased their joy

The word "you" refers to Yahweh. The word "their" refers to the people of Israel, but Isaiah includes himself as part of Israel. AT: "Lord, you will greatly increase our people and our joy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

They rejoice before you like the joy at harvest time, as men rejoice when they divide the plunder

The joy that Yahweh will give Israel is described as the same kind of joy people have when they bring in a harvest or divide valuable plunder. AT: "They will rejoice before you as people rejoice when they gather their crops or when a battle is over and soldiers divide what they took" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 9:4-5

General Information:

Isaiah continues to describe the time when God will save the people of Israel. Although these events will happen in the future (Isaiah 9:1-2), Isaiah describes them as if they have already happened. This emphasizes that they certainly will happen. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pastforfuture/01.md]])

For the yoke of his burden ... you have shattered as on the day of Midian

Isaiah speaks of the Israelites, who are the Assyrians' slaves, as if they were an ox wearing a yoke. This will happen in the future, but he speaks as if it has already happened. AT: "For as on the day of Midian you will set the people of Israel free from being slaves to their oppressors like a person removes a yoke from the shoulders of an animal" (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-pastforfuture/01.md]])

For the yoke of his burden ... his shoulder ... his oppressor

Isaiah speaks of the people of Israel as if they were one man. AT: "For the yoke of their burden ... their shoulders ... their oppressor" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the beam across his shoulder

The beam is the part of the yoke that goes over the shoulders of the ox.

beam

Another possible meaning is "staff," a long piece of wood that a person uses to beat the oxen so they will work and a symbol of one person's power to rule other people.

the rod of his oppressor

Isaiah speaks of the power the oppressor has over the people of Judah as if it were the piece of wood used by a person to beat oxen so they will work. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

as on the day of Midian

The word "day" is an idiom that can refer to an event that takes more than one day to happen. AT: "as when you defeated the Midianites" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

every boot treading in the tumult and the garments rolled in blood will be burned

This can be stated in active form. AT: "you will burn the boots of the soldiers and their clothes, which are covered with blood" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

burned, fuel for the fire

This can be made more explicit by translating it as a new sentence. AT: "burned. You will make the boots and the garments fuel for the fire" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 9:6-7

General Information:

Isaiah continues to describe the time when God will save the people of Israel (Isaiah 9:1-2). Although these events will happen in Isaiah's future, he describes them as if they have already happened. This emphasizes that they certainly will happen. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pastforfuture/01.md]])

For to us a child has been born, to us a son has been given

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The word "us" refers to both the speaker and the hearer and so is inclusive. This can be stated in active form. AT: "For the Lord will give to us a child" (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-inclusive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the rule will be on his shoulder

His authority to rule is spoken of as if it were the robe that is a symbol of his authority. AT: "he will wear his royal robe on his shoulder" or "he will have authority to rule as king." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Counselor

one who advises kings

Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end

"As time passes he will rule over more and more people and enable them to live more and more peacefully"

rules on the throne of David

Sitting on the "throne of David" is a metonym for having the right to rule; only David's descendants could be king over Israel. AT: "has the right to rule as David's descendant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

his kingdom, to establish it and sustain it with justice and with righteousness

This can be translated as a new sentence. AT: "his kingdom. He will establish and protect his kingdom, and he will do what is fair and just"

Yahweh of hosts

See how you translated this in Isaiah 1:9.

translationWords

Isaiah 9:8-10

The Lord sent a word against Jacob, and it fell on Israel

"Send a word" means to speak. AT: "The Lord has spoken against the people of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Jacob ... Israel ... Ephraim ... Samaria

These names all refer to the people of the northern kingdom of Israel.

All the people will know, even Ephraim and the inhabitants of Samaria

What they will know can be made explicit. AT: "All the people will know that the Lord has judged them, even those in Ephraim and Samaria" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

The bricks have fallen, but we will rebuild with chiseled stone; the sycamores have been cut down, but we will put cedars in their place

The full meaning can be made explicit. This can be stated in active form. AT: "We will replace the common bricks of our destroyed cities with expensive cut stone, and we will plant great cedar trees where ordinary sycamore trees grew" (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 9:11-12

Therefore Yahweh will raise up against him Rezin, his adversary

Here "Rezin" represents himself and his army. AT: "Therefore, Yahweh will bring Rezin and his army against the people of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Rezin

This is the name of a man. See how you translated Rezin in Isaiah 7:1. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

will stir up his enemies

The phrase "stir up" is an idiom that means to incite them to attack. AT: "Yahweh will cause Israel's enemies to attack" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

They will devour Israel with open mouth

"Devour" is how wild animals eat their prey. AT: "Like a wild beast eating its prey, the army of the enemy will destroy the people of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

In all these things, his anger does not subside; instead, his hand

"Even though all these things have happened, he is still angry, and his hand." See how you translated this in Isaiah 5:25.

his hand is still stretched out

Isaiah speaks as if Yahweh were a person about to hit another person with his fist. This is a metaphor for Yahweh punishing Israel. See how you translated this in Isaiah 5:25. AT: "he will still be ready to punish them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 9:13-15

Yahweh of hosts

See how you translated this in Isaiah 1:9.

head and tail

Isaiah explains this metaphor in verse 15. The "head," the part of an animal a person would want to be, is "the leader and the noble man," and the "tail," the dirty part of the animal, is "the prophet who teaches lies." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

palm branch and reed

The "palm branch" grows high on the tree and is a metaphor for people who are important and rule others. The "reed" grows in shallow water and is a metaphor for people who are poor and unimportant and are ruled by others. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 9:16-17

Those who lead this people lead them astray

The leaders causing people to disobey is spoken of as if the leaders led them on the wrong path. AT: "The leaders of Israel have caused the people to disobey God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

those who are led by them are swallowed up

This is a metaphor that can be stated in active form. Possible meanings are 1) AT: "those that they lead become confused" or 2) AT: "Yahweh destroys those that they lead" (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]])

every mouth speaks foolish things

The word "mouth" refers to the person. AT: "every person speaks foolish things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

In all these things, his anger does not subside; instead, his hand

"Even though all these things have happened, he is still angry, and his hand." See how you translated this in Isaiah 5:25.

his hand is still stretched out

translationWords

Isaiah 9:18-19

Wickedness burns like a fire; it devours the briers and thorns; it even burns the thickets of the forest

The people's evil deeds are spoken of as if they were a very destructive fire. This fire burns even the briers and thorns, plants that grow in places where people no longer live, and "the thickets of the forest" where no one has ever lived, because it has already destroyed the places where people were living. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

briers ... thorns

The words "briers" and "thorns" both refer to useless, thorny plants; they can be translated using one word. See how you translated these words in Isaiah 7:23. AT: "thorn bushes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Through the fury of Yahweh of hosts the land is scorched

Translate "Yahweh of hosts" as in Isaiah 1:9. This can be stated in active form. AT: "Like fire that scorches the land, the Lord's intense anger will destroy the people of Israel" (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]])

No man spares his brother

To "spare" someone means to save them from harm. AT: "No one does anything to help his own brother escape" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 9:20-21

They will grab food on the right hand ... on the left hand

This expression means that the people will grab food wherever they can find it. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Each will even eat the flesh of his own arm

Possible meanings are 1) people will be so hungry that they will want to eat or will actually eat their own arms or 2) the word "arm" is a metaphor for the person's neighbor. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

In all these things, his anger does not subside; instead, his hand

"Even though all these things have happened, he is still angry, and his hand." See how you translated this in Isaiah 5:25.

his hand is still stretched out

translationWords

Isaiah 10

Isaiah 10:intro-0

Isaiah 10 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter begins with a prophecy that is a continuation of the prophecy beginning in 8:21. Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in 10:1-11, 13-14, 15-19, 27-34. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's sovereignty

Yahweh has so much power and authority that he controls all of the nations. He even controls the nations who do not worship him. He uses Assyria to punish the kingdom of Israel.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Rhetorical Questions

There are many rhetorical questions in this chapter. Yahweh uses rhetorical questions to make statements about Israel's sin. The Assyrians use rhetorical questions in order to boast in their pride. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]])

Isaiah 10:1-2

to those who enact unjust laws and write unfair decrees

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. AT: "to those who make laws and decrees that are not fair to everyone" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

They deprive the needy of justice, rob the poor of my people of their rights

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. AT: "They are unjust to the poor and needy among my people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

the needy

"poor people"

plunder widows

"take everything from women whose husbands have died"

make the fatherless their prey

Isaiah compares orphans to animals that other animals hunt and eat. This emphasizes that orphans are powerless and judges can easily harm them. AT: "harm children who do not have parents like an animal that goes after its prey" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

prey

Translated "prey" as in Isaiah 5:29.

translationWords

Isaiah 10:3-4

What will you do on judgment day ... away?

Isaiah uses a question to scold those in Judah who harm the poor and weak people. AT: "You will be able to do nothing on judgment day ... away!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

judgment day

"the day when Yahweh comes to judge you" or "the day when Yahweh punishes you"

To whom will you flee for help, and where will you leave your wealth?

Isaiah uses a question to scold those in Judah who harm the poor and weak people. AT: "You have nowhere to run for help, and you will have nowhere to hide your riches!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Nothing remains, and you crouch

Possible meanings are 1) "None of your wealth remains as you crouch" or 2) "You can do nothing else but crouch."

you crouch among the prisoners or fall among the killed

"your enemies will either take you as a prisoner or will kill you"

In all these things, his anger does not subside

"Even though all these things have happened, he is still angry." See how you translated this in Isaiah 5:25.

his hand is still stretched out

translationWords

Isaiah 10:5-6

Woe

This word marks the beginning of God's announcement about a severe punishment against Assyria.

the Assyrian

This refers to the king of Assyria.

the club of my anger, the rod by whom I wield my fury

Both of these phrases mean basically the same thing. Yahweh compares the king of Assyria to a weapon a person holds in his hand and hits other people with. It emphasizes that the king of Assyria and his army are a tool that Yahweh uses to punish Israel. AT: "who will be like a weapon in my hands that I will use to show my anger" (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-metaphor/01.md]])

I send him ... I order him

The word "him" here also refers to the king of Assyria. But it does not mean God is only sending the king; he is sending with him the army of Assyria. AT: "I send the army of Assyria ... I order them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

against an arrogant nation and against the people who bear my overflowing wrath

"to attack a nation full of proud people who have made me very angry"

who bear my overflowing wrath

Yahweh speaks of his wrath as if it were more liquid than a container could hold; "the people" are trying to carry this container, but it is heavy, and Yahweh keeps pouring liquid in even after it starts to spill out. AT: "at whom I continue to be angry even after I have punished them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

to take the spoil

"to take everything they have"

to take the prey

to take the people like prey. See how you translated "prey" in Isaiah 5:29.

trample them like mud

Possible meanings are 1) Yahweh compares the army of Assyria attacking Israel to people stomping through mud who do not care what happens to the mud. AT: "trample them until they become like mud" or 2) the people are stomping on other people so they are lying in the mud and unable to rise. This is a metaphor for completely defeating them. AT: "completely defeat them" (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/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 10:7-9

But this is not what he intends, nor does he think this way

The meaning of "this" and "this way" can be made explicit. AT: "But the king of Assyria does not intend to do what I tell him, nor does he think that I am using him as my weapon" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

It is in his heart to destroy and eliminate many nations

The words "destroy" and "eliminate" mean basically the same thing. They are used for emphasis. AT: "He wants to completely destroy many nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Are not all my princes kings?

The king of Assyria uses a question to emphasize what he believes everyone should already know. AT: "I have made captains of my army kings over lands I have conquered!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Is not Kalno like Carchemish? Is not Hamath like Arpad? Is not Samaria like Damascus?

The king of Assyria uses these questions for emphasis. AT: "Kalno is no different from Carchemish. Hamath is no different from Arpad. Samaria is no different from Damascus. I have conquered them all!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Kalno ... Carchemish ... Hamath ... Arpad

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

translationWords

Isaiah 10:10-11

General Information:

Yahweh continues to quote what the king of Assyria says. (See: Isaiah 10:8)

As my hand has overcome

"Hand" here is a reference to military strength. AT: "As my powerful army has defeated" or "As I have conquered" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

my

This refers to the king of Assyria.

whose carved figures were greater

During this time people believed that the greatness of an idol showed how powerful the kingdom that had built it was. The king of Assyria is saying that because the idols in Jerusalem are not as great as the idols of the kingdoms he has defeated, Jerusalem would be less able to defeat him than they were.

just as I did to Samaria and her worthless idols

The word "Samaria" refers to the people who lived there, and "her" refers to the city of Samaria. Cities and nations were often spoken of as if they were women. AT: "just as I did to the people of Samaria and their worthless idols" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

will I not also do the same to Jerusalem and to her idols?

The king of Assyria used this question to emphasize the certainty that he will conquer the people of Jerusalem. AT: "I will certainly do the same to Jerusalem and her idols!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 10:12-13

When the Lord has finished his work on Mount Zion and on Jerusalem, I will punish

Yahweh speaks of himself as if he were someone else. "When I, the Lord, have finished my work on Mount Zion and on Jerusalem, I will punish"

his work on ... and on

his work of punishing. "punishing ... and punishing"

I will punish the speech of the arrogant heart of the king of Assyria and his prideful looks

"I will punish the king of Assyria for the arrogant things he said and the look of pride on his face"

For he says

"For the king of Assyria says"

I have removed ... I have stolen

Here the word "I" refers to the king of Assyria. He was the leader of the Assyrian army and took credit for what the army did at his command. AT: "my army has removed ... They have stolen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

like a bull

"as strong as a bull." Some ancient texts read, "like a mighty man." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

I have brought down the inhabitants

Possible meanings are 1) the king of Assyria has shamed the people of the countries he conquered or 2) he has removed the kings of the nations so they no longer rule. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I have brought

Here the word "I" refers to the king of Assyria. He was the leader of the Assyrian army and took credit for what the army did at his command. AT: "I and my army have brought" or "we have brought (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 10:14

General Information:

Yahweh is still quoting the king of Assyria. (See: Isaiah 10:13)

My hand has seized

The hand is a metonym for either the king's power or his army. AT: "In my power I have seized" or "My army has seized" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

My hand has seized, as from a nest, the wealth of nations

The king of Assyria compares taking the treasures from the nations to a person taking eggs out of a bird's nest. This emphasizes how easy it was for him and his army to conquer these other kingdoms. AT: "My army has stolen the wealth from the nations just as easily as a man takes eggs from a nest" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

as one gathers abandoned eggs, I gathered all the earth

The king of Assyria speaks of taking over nations as if he was gathering eggs. AT: "just as a person takes eggs from a nest when the bird is not there to protect them, my army has taken the treasures of every nation" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

None fluttered their wings or opened their mouth or chirped

This compares the nations to a bird who sits quietly while her eggs are taken. This emphasizes that the nations did nothing while the army of Assyria took all of their possessions. AT: "And like a bird that does not make a sound or flap her wings when someone steals her eggs, the nations did nothing as we took their treasure" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 10:15-16

Will the ax boast about itself against the one who wields it? Will the saw praise itself more than the one who cuts with it?

The speaker uses these questions to mock the king of Assyria. AT: "An ax cannot boast that it is better than the one who holds it. And a saw does not get more glory than the one who cuts with it." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

the saw

a sharp tool used for cutting wood

It is as if a rod could lift up those who raise it, or as if a wooden club could lift up a person

These phrases mean basically the same thing and are used to strengthen the meaning of the two questions before it. This can be translated as a new sentence. AT: "And neither can a rod or staff lift the person who picks it up" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Therefore the Lord Yahweh of hosts will send emaciation among his elite warriors

It is unclear whether Yahweh or Isaiah is speaking. This can be reworded so that the abstract noun "emaciation" is expressed as the verb "make weak." AT: "Therefore I, Lord Yahweh of hosts, will make the king's strongest soldiers weak" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

under his glory there will be kindled a burning like fire

Yahweh compares his punishment to a fire. This emphasizes that his punishment will completely destroy all the splendor and greatness of the kingdom of Assyria. AT: "I will destroy his greatness as if I were starting a fire to burn everything he is proud of" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 10:17-19

The light of Israel will become a fire

The phrase "light of Israel" refers to Yahweh. It is unclear whether Yahweh or Isaiah is speaking. AT: "I, Yahweh, the light of Israel, will become like a fire" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

fire

"Fire" emphasizes Yahweh's power to destroy everything that does not honor him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

his Holy One a flame

"I, Yahweh, the Holy one of Israel, will become like a flame." See how you translated "Holy One" in Isaiah 1:4.

it will burn and devour his thorns and briers

"The fire will burn and devour the king of Assyria's thorns and briars." The speaker compares the king of Assyria's army to thorns and briers. This emphasizes how easily God will destroy them. AT: "I will destroy the Assyrians like a fire burning thorns and briers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

thorns ... briers

The words "briers" and "thorns" both refer to useless, thorny plants; they can be translated using one expression. See how you translated these words in Isaiah 7:23. AT: "thorn bushes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Yahweh will consume the glory of his forest and of his fruitful land

Possible meaning are 1) "Yahweh will destroy the great forests and farmlands in the nation of Assyria" or 2) "Yahweh will destroy the army of Assyria as a fire burns up great forests and farmlands." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

both soul and body

Possible meanings are 1) this emphasizes that God will completely destroy the forests and farmlands. AT: "completely" or 2) this means God will completely destroy the people of Assyria. The phrase "soul and body" refers to the spiritual part and the physical part of a person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

it will be like when a sick man's life wastes away

This compares either the forests and farmlands of Assyria or the army of Assyria to a sick man as he lies in bed dying. This emphasizes how something so great can become weak and dying. AT: "they will be like a sick man who grows weak and dies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

The remnant of the trees of his forest will be so few

"What remains of the trees in the king's forest will be so few"

translationWords

Isaiah 10:20-21

On that day

This refers to the time when God does the things that are described in Isaiah 10:16-19. AT: "At that time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

that has escaped

The meaning can be made explicit. AT: "that has escaped from the army of Assyria" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

will no longer rely on the one who defeated them

"will no longer rely on the king of Assyria, who harmed them"

Holy One

See how you translated this in Isaiah 1:4.

translationWords

Isaiah 10:22-23

your people, Israel, are

Here "your" is singular. Possible interpretations are 1) God is speaking to Isaiah and "your" refers to Isaiah. AT: "your people Israel are" or 2) Isaiah or God is speaking to the nation of Israel and "your" refers to the nation. AT: "your people, O Israel, are" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

are like the sand of the seashore

This emphasizes that there were a great number of people of Israel. AT: "are too many to count, like the sand on the seashore" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Destruction is decreed

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh has decreed that he will destroy most of those who live in Israel" (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-explicit/01.md]])

as overflowing righteousness demands

This can be translated as a new sentence. AT: "This must be done for the sake of perfect righteousness" or "Yahweh must do this because he is completely righteous"

carry out the destruction determined throughout the land

Possible meanings are 1) "destroy everything in the land just as he has determined to do" or 2) "destroy the people in the land just as he has determined to do."

determined

"decided"

translationWords

Isaiah 10:24-25

the Assyrian

Isaiah speaks of the king of Assyria and his army as if he were one man. AT: "the king of Assyria and his army" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

He will strike you with the rod and raise his staff against you

The words "rod" and "staff" refer to pieces of wood that people use as clubs to beat animals and other people. Isaiah speaks of the way the Assyrians will rule over the Israelites as if the Assyrians were beating the Israelites with clubs. AT: "He will rule over you and make slaves of you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

He will strike

The word "He" refers to "the Assyrian" which represents the king of Assyria and his army. AT: "He and his army will strike" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

as the Egyptians did

The full meaning can be made explicit. AT: "as the Egyptians ruled over your ancestors and made them slaves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

my anger will lead to his destruction

The abstract noun "destruction" can be translated as a verb. AT: "I will destroy him because I am angry with him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 10:26-27

Yahweh of hosts

See how you translated this in Isaiah 1:9.

will wield a whip against them

"will beat the Assyrians with a whip." God will not really use a whip. This refers to God's power to punish the Assyrians severely. AT: "will punish the Assyrians severely as if with a whip" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

as when he defeated Midian at the rock of Oreb

This refers to when God helped a man named Gideon defeat the army of Midian. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

He will raise his rod over the sea and lift it up as he did in Egypt

This speaks of God rescuing the people from the Assyrians as if they were the Egyptian army. This refers to when God caused the water of the Red Sea to split so the people of Israel could escape from the Egyptian army and so that the Egyptian army would drown in it. AT: "He will help you escape from the army of Assyria as he helped your ancestors escape the army of Egypt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

his burden is lifted from your shoulder and his yoke from off your neck

"Yahweh will lift the burden that Assyria has put on your shoulder, and he will remove the yoke that they have put on your neck." These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The words "burden" and "yoke" refer to slavery. This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will remove the Assyrians who oppress you and will stop them from making you their slaves" (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-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the yoke will be destroyed because of fatness

This expression suggests that the neck of the animal that is wearing the yoke will become too fat to fit the yoke any longer. This is a metaphor for Israel becoming so strong that the Assyrians can no longer rule them. This can be stated in active form. AT: "your neck will become so fat that it will break the yoke" or "you will become so strong that you will no longer be the Assyrians' slaves" (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 10:28-29

has come ... has passed ... has stored ... have crossed ... lodge ... trembles ... has fled

Isaiah speaks of these future events as though they have already happened. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pastforfuture/01.md]])

Aiath ... Migron ... Michmash ... Geba ... Ramah ... Gibeah

These are all cities and villages near Jerusalem that the army of Assyria went through and caused trouble in. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Ramah trembles and Gibeah of Saul has fled

Here "Ramah" and "Gibeah of Saul" refer to the people who lived in those cities. AT: "The people of Ramah tremble and the people of Gibeah of Saul have fled" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 10:30-32

daughter of Gallim

The word "daughter" here refers to the people who live in the city. AT: "Gallim" or "people of Gallim" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Gallim ... Laishah ... Anathoth ... Madmenah ... Gebim ... Nob

These are names of more cities and villages near Jerusalem that the Assyrian army traveled through causing fear among the people. All of these refer to the people who live in these places. (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/translate-names/01.md]])

he will halt at Nob and shake his fist

Here "he" and "his" refer to the king of Assyria and his soldiers. People would shake their fists at people whom they were threatening. AT: "the army of Assyria will stop at Nob and threaten" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the mountain of the daughter of Zion, the hill of Jerusalem

The words "mount" and "hill" are metonyms for the people who live on them. The words "mount of the daughter of Zion" mean almost the same thing as the words "hill of Jerusalem." See how they are translated in Isaiah 2:14. AT: "the people of Mount Zion and the people living on the hill in Jerusalem" (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 10:33-34

Behold

This can be translated as "Look" or "Listen" or "Pay attention to what I am about to tell you."

Yahweh of hosts

See how you translated this in Isaiah 1:9.

will lop off the boughs ... and Lebanon in his majesty will fall

Isaiah speaks of the army of Assyria as if it were the tall trees in Lebanon. God will destroy the army like people cutting down the mighty trees of Lebanon. This emphasizes that though the army is strong, God has the power to destroy it. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

will lop off the boughs

"will cut off the big branches of the trees." In order to make it clear that this refers to the army of Assyria, it can be translated as a simile: He will destroy the army of Assyria like strong men cutting off the big branches of trees. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

with a terrifying crash

This can be reworded so that the abstract noun "crash" is expressed as the verb "make a noise." AT: "and the branches will crash down on the ground and make a terrifying noise" or "and the branches will fall to the ground with a very loud noise" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the tallest trees will be cut down

This can be stated in active form. AT: "he will cut down the tallest trees" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the tallest trees

This is a metaphor for "the strongest soldiers." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the lofty will be brought low

This can be stated in active form. AT: "he will bring down the lofty people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

lofty

proud

the thickets of the forest

"the dense shrubs in the forest." This is possibly a metaphor for those people who are not well known. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Lebanon in his majesty will fall

"the forests of Lebanon will no longer be so grand." This is possibly a metaphor for the Assyrian army. AT: "Yahweh will defeat the army of Assyria, as mighty as it is" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 11

Isaiah 11:intro-0

Isaiah 11 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Messiah

The prophecies of this chapter focus on the coming messiah. Some of these prophecies concern the first coming of Jesus, while some reference a future day of restoration. The author transitions between these time periods without telling his reader. (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/christ.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/restore.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# Ambiguity

It is uncertain what period of time these prophecies refer to or who will fulfill them. The translator should allow this uncertainty and ambiguity to remain. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/fulfill.md]])

Isaiah 11:1-2

A shoot will sprout from the stump of Jesse ... a branch out of his roots will bear fruit

Isaiah speaks of Jesse and his descendants as if they were a tree that had been cut down. Both of these phrases tell about a descendant of Jesse who would be king. AT: "As a shoot sprouts out of a tree stump, so a descendant of Jesse will become king over what remains of Israel" (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-metaphor/01.md]])

the stump of Jesse

A stump is what remains of a tree after it is chopped down. The "stump of Jesse" represents what was left of the kingdom that Jesse's son David was once king of. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

The Spirit of Yahweh will rest upon him

Resting upon him represents being with him and helping him. The word "him" refers to the one who would become king. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the Spirit of wisdom ... the Spirit of instruction ... the Spirit of knowledge ... the fear of Yahweh

Here the word "Spirit" refers to an ability or quality that the Spirit of Yahweh would give him. AT: "and he will cause him to have wisdom and understanding, instruction and might, knowledge and the fear of Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 11:3-5

Connecting Statement:

Isaiah continues to describe the king.

he will not judge by what his eyes see

The phrase "what his eyes see" refers to seeing things that are not important for judging a person rightly. AT: "he will not judge a person simply by seeing what the person looks like" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

nor decide by what his ears hear

"and he will not decide by what his ears hear." The phrase "what his ears hear" refers to hearing what people say about someone. AT: "and he will not judge a person simply by hearing what others say about him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

the poor ... the humble ... the wicked

These phrases refer to people who have these qualities. AT: "poor people ... humble people ... wicked people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth ... with the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth

The word "earth" here represents the people on earth. Striking them with the rod of his mouth represents judging them, and that judgement will lead to punishment. AT: "He will judge the people of the earth, and they will be punished" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

with the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked

The "breath of his lips" represents him judging them. AT: "he will judge wicked people, and they will be killed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the belt of his waist ... the belt around his hips

Possible meanings are 1) the belt is used to secure one's clothes so he can work, or 2) the belt is an undergarment, or 3) the belt is a sash that a king wears to show his authority.

Righteousness will be the belt of his waist

Wearing righteousness like a belt represents being righteous. Possible meanings are 1) the king's righteousness will enable him to rule. AT: "His righteousness will be a like a belt around his waist" or 2) the king's righteousness would show his authority to rule. AT: "He will rule righteously" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

faithfulness the belt around his hips

The words "will be" are understood in this phrase. AT: "faithfulness will be the belt around his hips" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

faithfulness the belt around his hips

Wearing faithfulness like a belt represents being faithful. Possible meanings are 1) the king's faithfulness will enable him to rule, or 2) the king's faithfulness will show his authority to rule. AT: "his faithfulness will be a like a belt around his hips" or "he will rule faithfully" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 11:6-7

General Information:

Isaiah describes what the world will be like when the king rules. There will be complete peace in the world. This is shown by the peace that there will be even among animals. Animals that normally kill other animals will not kill them, and they will all be safe together.

The wolf ... the leopard ... the young lion ... the bear ... The lion

These phrases refer to these animals in general, not to a specific wolf or leopard. These are all strong animals that attack and eat other animals. AT: "Wolves ... leopards ... young lions ... bears ... Lions" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

the lamb ... the young goat ... the calf ... the fattened calf ... The cow ... the ox

The phrases refer to these animals in general, not to a specific lamb or goat. These are all animals that eat grass and straw. Other animals sometimes attack and eat them. AT: "lambs ... young goats ... calves ... fattened calves ... Cows ... oxen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

leopard

a large cat with yellow fur and black spots that kills and eats other animals (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

the calf, the young lion and the fattened calf, together

The phrase "will be" is understood. AT: "the calf, the lion, and the fattened calf will be together" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

bear

a very large animal with thick hair and sharp claws that kills and eats other animals (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

A little child will lead them

A child will take care of them and lead them to good places to drink water and eat grass or hay.

will graze together

"will eat grass together"

their young

This refers to the animals' offspring shortly after they are born.

translationWords

Isaiah 11:8-9

General Information:

Isaiah continues to describe the complete peace in the world when the king rules.

A baby will play over the hole of the snake

It can be stated clearly that the baby will be safe because the snake will not bite it. AT: "Babies will play safely over the hole of the snake" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

the snake ... the serpent's den

These phrases refer to poisonous snakes in general. AT: "snakes ... serpents' dens" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

the weaned child

a child who no longer drinks its mother's milk

on all my holy mountain

The "holy mountain" is Mount Zion, in Jerusalem. AT: "on all of Yahweh's holy mountain"

the earth will be full of knowledge of Yahweh

The phrase "knowledge of Yahweh" represents people who know Yahweh. AT: "the earth will be full of those who know Yahweh" or "those who know Yahweh will cover the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

as the waters cover the sea

This phrase is used to show how full the earth will be of people who know Yahweh. It may be clearer that it does this if its words are similar to the words in the previous phrase. AT: "as the seas are full of water" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 11:10-11

the root of Jesse

This refers to Jesse's and King David's descendant who would become the king that was told about in Isaiah 1:1. AT: "Jesse's descendant king" or "the king descended from Jesse" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

will stand as a banner for the peoples

A banner is a flag that a king would raise as a sign for people to see it and come to him. AT: "will be like a sign for the peoples" or "will attract the peoples to come to him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

The nations

"The people of the nations"

the Lord will again extend his hand to recover the remnant of his people

The hand is a reference to God's power. AT: "the Lord will again use his power to bring back the remnant of his people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Pathros ... Elam ... Hamath

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

translationWords

Isaiah 11:12-13

He will set up a banner for the nations

Possible meanings are 1) "The Lord will set up the king as a banner for the nations" or 2) "The king will set up a banner for the nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

a banner for the nations

"a flag for the nations to see" or "a flag to call the nations to himself"

the dispersed of Judah

"the people of Judah who had been scattered around the world"

from the four corners of the earth

The earth is pictured as if it has four corners, and those corners are its most distant places. This refers to everywhere on earth where those people might be. AT: "from even the most distant places of the earth" or "from all over the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

He will turn aside the envy of Ephraim

Ephraim here refers to the descendants of the northern kingdom of Israel. The noun "envy" can be expressed as an adjective. AT: "He will stop the people of Ephraim from being envious" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Judah will no longer be hostile to Ephraim

Judah here refers to the descendants of the southern kingdom. This phrase can be stated in active form. AT: "he will stop the people of Judah from being hostile" or "he will stop the people of Judah from hating" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 11:14-15

they will swoop down on the Philistine hills

The people of Israel and Judah are pictured as if they were birds that fly down quickly to attack a person or animal. AT: "they will go quickly to the Philistine hills to attack the people there" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the gulf of the Sea of Egypt

A "gulf" is a large area of water that land partly surrounds.

With his scorching wind he will wave his hand over the Euphrates River

Waving his hand over something represents his power to change it. AT: "By his power he will cause a scorching wind to blow on the Euphrates River" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

his scorching wind

This is a strong or hot wind that causes some of the water in rivers to dry up.

so it can be crossed over in sandals

"so that people can cross over it even while wearing their sandals"

translationWords

Isaiah 11:16

There will be a highway

A highway is a large road that many people can travel on. "Yahweh will make a road"

in their coming up from the land of Egypt

"when they came up from the land of Egypt"

translationWords

Isaiah 12

Isaiah 12:intro-0

Isaiah 12 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# "That day"

The time of this day is unclear. It may be a time in the near future for Isaiah, or a time in the distant future for him. In the latter case, it would reference the last days. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lastday.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# Tense

Extra care must be taken in translating the tense of this chapter. The author talks about the future, but frequently changes to speak in the present tense. Some languages will have difficulty speaking in this way.

Isaiah 12:1-2

General Information:

Here Isaiah continues to describe what it will be like when the king that God has chosen rules. (See: Isaiah 11:1-2)

On that day

It can be stated clearly what time is being referred to. AT: "At that time" or "When the king rules" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

your wrath has turned away

God's wrath is spoken of as if it were a person that could turn away and leave. It means that God has stopped being angry. AT: "You are no longer angry with me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

God is my salvation

God causing someone's salvation is spoken of as if God were that salvation. The abstract noun "salvation" can be expressed with the noun "savior" or the verb "save." AT: "God causes my salvation" or "God is my savior" or "God is the one who saves me" (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]])

Yahweh is my strength

God causing someone to be strong is spoken of as if Yahweh were their strength. AT: "Yahweh makes me strong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

song

The word "song" here represents what a person sings about. AT: "the one I joyfully sing about" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

He has become my salvation

"He has saved me"

translationWords

Isaiah 12:3-4

With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation

Isaiah speaks of people being saved as if they were getting salvation the way people get water out of well. AT: "you will rejoice when he saves you, as people rejoice when they draw water from a well" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

call upon his name

Here "his name" refers to Yahweh. Calling on him represents either praising him or asking him for help. AT: "praise him loudly" or "call to him to help you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

declare his deeds among the peoples

The noun "deeds" can be expressed with the phrase "what he has done." AT: "Tell the peoples about the great things he has done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

proclaim that his name is exalted

Here "his name" refers to Yahweh. AT: "proclaim that he is exalted" or "proclaim that he is great" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 12:5-6

General Information:

Isaiah continues to tell what the people will say when the king rules.

for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel

"because the Holy One of Israel, who lives among you, is mighty" or "because the Holy One of Israel is mighty and he lives among you"

translationWords

Isaiah 13

Isaiah 13:intro-0

Isaiah 13 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Prophecies

It is unclear who is addressed by these prophecies. At times, it appears to be the people of Judah, while at other times it seems to reference the last days. This ambiguity should remain in translation. (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/lastday.md]])

Isaiah 13:1-3

about Babylon

The name of the city stands for the people of Babylon. AT: "about the people of Babylon" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Amoz

Amoz was the father of Isaiah. See how you translated this in Isaiah 1:1. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

cry aloud to them

The word "them" refers to soldiers from another country.

the gates of the nobles

Possible meanings are 1) "the gates of Babylon where the nobles live" or 2) "the gates of the nobles' large houses" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the nobles

"the respected people" or "the rulers"

my holy ones

"the ones I have set apart for myself" or "the army that I have set apart for myself"

I have called my mighty men to execute my anger

Executing God's anger represents punishing people because of God's anger. AT: "I have called my mighty soldiers to punish the people of Babylon because they have made me angry" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

even my proudly exulting ones

"even those who proudly exult." Why they proudly exult can be stated clearly. AT: "even my people who proudly exult because of the great things I do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 13:4-5

The noise of a multitude in the mountains, as of many people

The words "there is" are understood. The phrases "multitude" and "many people" mean the same thing. AT: "There is the noise of many people in the mountains" or "There is the noise of a great crowd of people in the mountains" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

The noise of a tumult of the kingdoms like many nations gathered together

The words "there is" are understood. The words "kingdoms" and "nations" here refer to the same thing. AT: "There is the noisy commotion of many kingdoms gathered together" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

is mustering

"is gathering"

from way over the horizon

"from places far beyond the horizon" or "from very distant places"

his instruments of judgment

The soldiers that God is sending to attack Babylon are spoken of as if they were weapons. "Judgment" represents punishment because God has judged Babylon. AT: "the army that he will use to punish Babylon" (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 13:6-8

Howl

cry out loud. The word is usually used of an animal making a sound because it is in pain.

the day of Yahweh is near

Something that is about to happen soon is spoken of as if it is coming near. AT: "the day of Yahweh will happen soon" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

it comes with destruction from the Almighty

The word "it" refers to the day of Yahweh. "It comes with destruction" means that destruction will happen on that day. "Destruction from the Almighty" means that the Almighty will destroy them. AT: "on that day, the Almighty God will destroy 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-abstractnouns/01.md]])

all hands hang limp

This shows that all the people are very weak and unable to do anything.

every heart melts

People being terribly afraid is spoken of as if their hearts melt. AT: "everyone is terribly afraid" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

pain and agony will seize them

People suddenly feeling terrible pain and sorrow is spoken of as if the pains and sorrows were people who grab them. AT: "they will suddenly feel terrible pain and agony" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

like a woman in labor

Being in labor represents giving birth to a baby. AT: "like a woman giving birth to a baby" or "like the pain of a woman who is giving birth to a baby" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

their faces will be aflame

Their faces being hot and red is spoken of as if they were burning. Possible reasons for their faces being hot are 1) the people are very afraid or 2) the people feel ashamed or 3) the people cry. AT: "their faces will be hot and red" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 13:9-10

the day of Yahweh comes with cruel wrath and overflowing anger

The day coming with wrath and anger means that there will be wrath and anger on that day. The abstract nouns "wrath" and "anger" can be expressed with the adjectives "furious" and "angry." AT: "on the day of Yahweh, he will be furious and extremely angry" (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]])

overflowing anger

Anger here is spoken of as if the one who is angry is a container filled with anger. Overflowing anger means that he is extremely angry. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

to make the land a desolation

This can be reworded so that the abstract noun "desolation" is expressed with the verb "ruin." AT: "to ruin the land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

The stars of heaven and the constellations

"The stars in the sky"

will not give their light

Giving light represents "shining." AT: "will not shine" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

The sun will be darkened

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will darken the sun" or "The sun will be dark" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 13:11-12

Connecting Statement:

Yahweh continues to talk about what he will do on the day of Yahweh.

the world

This refers to people. AT: "the people of the world" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the wicked ... the proud ... the ruthless

These phrases refer to people who have these qualities. AT: "wicked people ... proud people ... ruthless people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

the ruthless

"cruel people"

will bring down the arrogance of the ruthless

Being low often represents being humble. Bringing down people's arrogance represents making them humble. AT: "will humble the ruthless" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will make men more rare than fine gold

Why there will be so few people can be stated clearly. AT: "I will cause so many people to die that living people will be more rare than fine gold" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

men more rare than fine gold ... mankind harder to find than the pure gold of Ophir

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

pure gold of Ophir

Ophir was the name of a place where there was pure gold. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 13:13-14

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking.

Like a hunted gazelle or like a sheep with no shepherd

Yahweh speaks of the defenseless people of Israel as if they were a gazelle or a sheep that was being chased by hunters or wild animals. AT: "Like gazelles that run away swiftly when people hunt them, and like sheep that have no shepherd run away from wild animals" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

gazelle

an animal that is similar to a deer. People hunt them, and wild animals sometimes attack and kill them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

like a sheep with no shepherd

Sheep that have no shepherd have no one to protect them from wild animals that attack and kill them.

translationWords

Isaiah 13:15-16

Every one who is found will be killed ... every one who is captured will die by the sword

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. This can be stated in active form. AT: "The enemy will kill with the sword everyone they find" (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-activepassive/01.md]])

Their infants also will be dashed in pieces

This can be stated in active form. AT: "The enemy will also dash their infants to pieces" or "The enemy will beat their infants until they die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

before their eyes

Here the people are represented by their "eyes" to emphasize what they see. It can be stated clearly that the parents are unable to help their infants. AT: "in front of them" or "while their parents helplessly watch" (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-synecdoche/01.md]])

Their houses will be plundered

This means that everything valuable will be stolen from their houses. This can be stated in active form. AT: "The enemy will plunder the people's houses" or "The enemy will steal everything valuable from the people's houses" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

their wives raped

This means that the enemies will attack the women and force them to have sex with them. The words "will be" are understood. This can also be expressed with an active form. AT: "their wives will be raped" or "their enemies will rape their wives" (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/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/sword.md]]

Isaiah 13:17-18

Connecting Statement:

Yahweh continues speaking.

I am about to stir up the Medes to attack them

Making people want to do something is spoken of as stirring them up. AT: "I am about to make the Medes want to attack them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 13:19-20

Connecting Statement:

Yahweh continues speaking.

the most admired of kingdoms

This can be stated in active form. AT: "the kingdom that people most admire" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Then Babylon ... will be overthrown by God

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Then God will destroy Babylon, the most admired of kingdoms, the splendor of Chaldean pride, as he destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the splendor of Chaldean pride

The abstract nouns "splendor" and "pride" can be translated with adjectives. The word "splendor" refers to the beautiful appearance of Babylon. AT: "the beautiful city that the Chaldeans are so proud of" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

It will not be inhabited or lived in

The two verbs mean basically the same thing. This can be stated in active form. AT: "No one will live in it" (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]])

from generation to generation

The phrase "generation to generation" refers to all generations of people who will live in the future. AT: "for ever" or "ever again" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

The Arab

This refers to Arab people in general, not one person. AT: "Arabs" or "Arab people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 13:21-22

Connecting Statement:

Yahweh continues speaking about what will happen to Babylon.

will lie there

"will lie in Babylon"

Their houses

"The people's houses"

owls

Owls are wild birds that hunt at night. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

ostriches

Ostriches are large wild birds that run fast and cannot fly. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

Hyenas

Hyenas are large wild animals that look like dogs and eat dead animals. Their loud cry sounds like a person laughing. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

jackals in the beautiful palaces

The words "will cry" are understood. AT: "jackals will cry in the beautiful palaces" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

jackals

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

Her time is near, and her days will not be delayed

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. "Her time" and "her days" both refer to the time that God has chosen for Babylon to be destroyed. This can be stated in active form. AT: "The time that all of this will happen to the people of Babylon is near, and nothing will stop it" (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-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 14

Isaiah 14:intro-0

Isaiah 14 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in 14:4-27, 29-32.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Satan

It is believed that this chapter references Satan. It describes Satan as a star fallen from heaven. There are five important statements beginning with the words "I will" which appear to show the essence of Satan's sin. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/satan.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/heaven.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

# Babylon

This is the name of the kingdom that conquered Judah, but it is also the name representing Satan's kingdom in prophecies. They were not yet a world power when these words were spoken. It should be translated as "Babylon," but translators should be aware of its dual meaning.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# Israel

The use of Israel in this chapter is in reference to the nation or people group of Israel. It is this Israel who will be restored and not the kingdom of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/restore.md]])

Isaiah 14:1-2

Yahweh will have compassion on Jacob

Here "Jacob" refers to the descendants of Jacob. AT: "Yahweh will have mercy on the descendants of Jacob" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

attach themselves to the house of Jacob

The house of Jacob refers to the descendants of Jacob, the Israelites. AT: "unite with the descendants of Jacob" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

The nations will bring them to their own place

"The nations will bring the descendants of Jacob back to the land of Israel"

the house of Israel

This refers to the Israelites, the descendants of Israel. AT: "the descendants of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

They will take captive those who had captured them

"The Israelite soldiers will take as captives those who had captured Israelites"

translationWords

Isaiah 14:3-4

from your suffering and anguish

The word "your" is singular, but it refers to the people of Israel. Also, "suffering" and "anguish" mean basically the same thing and are used together for emphasis. AT: "from the things that have caused you to suffer greatly" (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/figs-doublet/01.md]])

How the oppressor has come to an end

"The oppressor has come to an end." This is an exclamation.

the proud fury ended

The words "how and "has" are understood. AT: "how the proud fury has ended" or "his pride and fury have ended" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

the proud fury ended

The "proud fury" refers to the king of Babylon being proud and treating other nations cruelly. AT: "his cruelty has ended" or "he can no longer oppress people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 14:5-6

worms cover you

The worms all over his body are spoken of as if they were covering him like a blanket. AT: "Worms cover you like a blanket" or "There are worms all over your body" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/hades.md]]

Isaiah 14:12-14

The offspring of evildoers will never be mentioned again

This can be stated in active form. AT: "no one will ever speak again about the descendants of evildoers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 14:21-23

Prepare your slaughter for his children

This can be reworded so that the abstract noun "slaughter" is expressed with the verb "kill." AT: "Get ready to kill the children of the king of Babylon" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

for the iniquity of their ancestors

This can be reworded so that the abstract noun "iniquity" is expressed as the verb "sinned greatly." AT: "because their forefathers have sinned greatly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

so they will not rise up

Here "rise up" represents either becoming powerful or attacking. AT: "so they will not become powerful" or "so they will not attack" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

possess the earth

This represents taking control of the people on the earth, in this case by conquering them. AT: "take control of the peoples on the earth" or "conquer the peoples on the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

fill the whole world with cities

This represents causing the world to have many cities on it. AT: "build cities all over the world" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will rise up against them

This means that God will do something against them. The word "them" refers to the people of Babylon. AT: "I will attack them" or "I will send people to attack them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

this is the declaration of Yahweh of hosts

Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. AT: "this is what Yahweh of hosts has declared" or "this is what I, Yahweh of hosts, have declared" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

Yahweh of hosts

See how you translated this in Isaiah 1:9.

I will cut off from Babylon name, descendant, and posterity

"Cut off" represents destroying. Here "Babylon" refers to the people of Babylon. Also, "name" refers either to Babylon's fame or to Babylon itself as a kingdom. AT: "I will destroy Babylon, along with the people's children and grandchildren" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

I will also make her

The word "her" refers to the city of Babylon. Cities were often spoken of as if they were women. AT: "I will also make it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

a possession of owls

This represents wild animals living in the city because there are no people there. AT: "a place where owls live" or "a place where wild animals live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

into pools of water

Causing there to be swamps or ponds of stagnant water where the city was is spoken of as making the city into those things. AT: "into a place where there are stagnant ponds" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will sweep her with the broom of destruction

This represents completely destroying Babylon and making it no longer exist as if it is worthless dirt that people sweep away. AT: "I will destroy it completely, like sweeping it away with a broom" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 14:24-25

Yahweh of hosts

See how you translated this in Isaiah 1:9.

as I have intended, so it will come about; and as I have purposed, so it will be

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. AT: "the things that I have planned will surely happen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

I will break the Assyrian in my land

Breaking represents defeating. AT: "I will defeat the Assyrian in my land" or "I will cause the Assyrian in my land to be defeated" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the Assyrian

This represents the Assyrian king and his army. AT: "the king of Assyria and his army" or "the Assyrian army" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

trample him underfoot

This represents completely defeating him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Then his yoke will be lifted from off them and his burden from off their shoulder

This can be expressed with an active verb. AT: "Then I will lift his yoke from them and his burden from their shoulder" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Then his yoke will be lifted from off them and his burden from off their shoulder

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Lifting the yoke and burden represents setting people free from slavery. AT: "Then I will set the Israelites free from slavery to Assyria like removing a heavy burden from their shoulder" (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-metaphor/01.md]])

his yoke ... his burden

The word "his" refers to Assyria.

from off them ... from off their shoulder

The words "them" and "their" refer to the people of Israel.

translationWords

Isaiah 14:26-27

General Information:

This may be Isaiah speaking or it may be Yahweh speaking.

This is the plan that is intended for the whole earth

The idea of "is intended" can be expressed with an active verb. AT: "This is the plan that God intends for the whole earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

this is the hand that is raised over all the nations

God being ready to punish the nations is spoken of as if he raised his hand in order to hit them. The word "hand" may also represent his power. AT: "this is Yahweh's power to punish all the nations" or "this is how Yahweh will punish the 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-metonymy/01.md]])

who will stop him?

This question emphasizes that no one can stop Yahweh. AT: "there is no one who can stop him." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Yahweh of hosts

See how you translated this in Isaiah 1:9.

His hand is raised

This represents Yahweh being ready to punish the nations. AT: "He is ready to punish them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

who will turn it back?

This question is used to say that no one can turn back God's hand. Turning back his hand represents stopping him from punishing the nations. AT: "no one can turn it back." or "no one can stop him from punishing them." (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-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 14:28-30

the rod that struck you is broken

The rod that struck Philistia represents a king who sent his army to attack them. Being broken represents either being dead or being defeated. AT: "the king that sent his army against you is dead" or "the army that attacked you is defeated" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

For out of the serpent's root will grow out an adder ... his offspring will be a fiery flying serpent

These two phrases are both the image of a serpent's offspring being even more harmful than the serpent. They represent a king's successor being more powerful and cruel than the first king. (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-metaphor/01.md]])

an adder

a kind of poisonous snake

a fiery flying serpent

Here the word "fiery" probably refers to the serpent's poisonous bite, and the word "flying" refers to its quick movements. AT: "a quickly moving poisonous snake" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

The firstborn of the poor

This represents the poorest people. AT: "The poorest people" or "The poorest of my people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will kill your root with famine that will put to death all your survivors

Here "your root" refers to the people of Philistia. AT: "I will kill your people with famine that will put to death all your survivors" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 14:31-32

Howl, gate; cry, city

Here "gate" and "city" represent the people at the city gates and in the cities. "Howl, you people at the city gates; cry, you people in the cities" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

you will melt away

Melting away represents becoming weak because of fear. AT: "you will grow weak with fear" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

For out of the north comes a cloud of smoke

This implies that a large army is coming from the north. AT: "For from the north comes a large army with a cloud of smoke" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

a cloud of smoke

Possible meanings are 1) this represents a cloud of dust that the army stirs up as they travel on dry dirt roads. AT: "a cloud of dust" or 2) there is a lot of smoke because of all the things that the army destroys and burns. AT: "much smoke" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

there is no straggler in his ranks

"no one in his ranks walks slowly behind the others"

How will they respond to the messengers of that nation?

The author uses this question to introduce his instruction about how the Israelites should speak to the messengers. AT: "This is how we will answer the messengers of Philistia." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Yahweh has founded Zion

"Yahweh started Zion"

in her

"in Jerusalem" or "there"

the afflicted of his people

"those of his people who have been afflicted"

translationWords

Isaiah 15

Isaiah 15:intro-0

Isaiah 15 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

This chapter shifts from discussing Judah to the nation of Moab. Moab is punished by Yahweh, even though he is not a god they worship. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/god.md]])

Isaiah 15:1-2

General Information:

Often in prophecy events that will happen in future are described as happening now or in the past. This emphasizes that the event will certainly happen. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pastforfuture/01.md]])

A declaration

"This is what Yahweh declares" or "This is a message from Yahweh"

Ar ... Kir ... Dibon ... Nebo ... Medeba

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

Ar of Moab is laid waste and destroyed

The words "laid waste" and "destroyed" mean the same thing and emphasize that the city was completely ruined. This can be stated in active form. AT: "Enemy armies will completely destroy Ar of Moab" (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]])

went up to the heights to weep

Here "up to the heights" refers to a temple or altar that was built on high ground like a hill or mountain side. AT: "went up to the temple on the hilltop to weep" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Moab laments over Nebo and over Medeba

These place names refer to the people who live there. AT: "the people of Moab will weep because of what happened to the cities of Nebo and Medeba" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

All their heads are shaved bare and all their beards are cut off

They do this to show their extreme sadness. AT" "They will all shave their heads and cut off their beards and grieve" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 15:3-4

General Information:

This continues the prophecy about the people of Moab. God describes events that will happen in the future as if it is happening in the present. (See: Isaiah 15:1-2)

they wear sackcloth

They do this to show their extreme sadness. AT: "they wear sackcloth and mourn" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

Heshbon ... Elealeh ... Jahaz

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

Heshbon and Elealeh call out

These city names represent the people of these cities. "The people of Heshbon and Elealeh call out" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

they tremble within themselves

Physical trembling is a symptom of fear and represents fear. AT: "they will be completely filled with fear" or "they tremble with fear" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/sackcloth.md]]

Isaiah 15:5-7

General Information:

This continues the prophecy about the people of Moab. God describes events that will happen in the future as if it is happening in the present. (See: Isaiah 15:1-2)

My heart cries out for Moab

Here God is represented by his "heart" which emphasizes his emotions. God speaks of his great sadness as if his heart cried out. AT: "I am extremely sad about what is happening to Moab" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] or [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

her fugitives flee

"the fugitives from Moab will flee." A fugitive is a person who runs away so that his enemy will not capture him.

Zoar ... Eglath Shelishiyah ... Luhith ... Horonaim ... Nimrim

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

over their destruction

This can be reworded so that the abstract noun "destruction" is expressed as the verb "destroyed." AT: "because their city is destroyed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

The abundance

"Everything"

brook of the poplars

This may refer to the river at the southern border of Moab.

translationWords

Isaiah 15:8-9

General Information:

This continues the prophecy about the people of Moab. God describes events that will happen in the future as if it is happening in the present. (See: Isaiah 15:1-2)

The cry has gone around the territory of Moab

People's crying out and others hearing it is spoken of as if the cry had gone out. AT: "People all over the territory of Moab cry out" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the wailing as far as Eglaim and Beer Elim

The words "has gone" are understood. People's wailing and others hearing it is spoken of as if the wailing had gone as far away as these two places. AT: "the wailing has gone as far as Egalim and Beer Elim" or "people even as far away as Elaim and Beer Elim wail"

Eglaim ... Beer Elim ... Dimon

These are names of cities and towns. Dimon was the principal city of the country of Moab. Several modern versions have "Dibon" instead of "Dimon." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

but I will bring even more upon Dimon

Here "I" refers to Yahweh. Also, "Dimon" refers to the people who live there. AT: "but I will cause even more trouble for the people of Dimon" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 16

Isaiah 16:intro-0

Isaiah 16 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is a continuation of the previous chapter and is a prophecy against the nation of Moab. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]])

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in 16:1-12.

Isaiah 16:1-2

General Information:

This continues the prophecy about the people of Moab. God describes events that will happen in the future as if it is happening in the present. Verse one is probably what God says the rulers of Moab will say to each other. (See: Isaiah 15:1-2)

Send rams to the ruler of the land

The Moabites will send rams to the king of Judah so that he might protect them from the enemy army. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

Selah

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

the daughter of Zion

The "daughter" of a city means the people of the city. See how you translated this in Isaiah 1:8. AT: "the people of Zion" or "the people who live in Zion" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

As wandering birds, as a scattered nest, so the women of Moab are at the fords of the Arnon River

All the people of Moab, which includes the women, are forced to flee from their homes. AT: "Like birds without a home, the women of Moab will flee across the river to another land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

As wandering birds, as a scattered nest

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 16:3-4

General Information:

This continues the prophecy about the people of Moab. God describes events that will happen in the future as if it is happening in the present. Verses 3 and 4 is probably the message that the Moabite rulers send to the king of Judah. (See: Isaiah 15:1-2)

provide some shade like night in the middle of the day

The heat of the middle of the day represents the Moabites' suffering from their enemies, and shade represents protection from their enemies. Comparing the shade to night shows that they want strong protection. AT: "protect us completely from our enemies as a large shadow protects people from the hot sun" (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-simile/01.md]])

Let them live among you, the refugees from Moab

"Allow the refugees from Moab to live with you." Here "you" refers to the people of Judah.

be a hiding place for them from the destroyer

Providing a hiding place is spoken of as being a hiding place. AT: "give them a place to hide from those who are trying to destroy them" or "hide them from those who want to destroy them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 16:5

A throne will be established in covenant faithfulness

Here "throne" refers to the power to rule as king. The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be stated as "faithful." This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will be faithful to the covenant and he will appoint a king" (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-abstractnouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

one from David's tent will faithfully sit there

Here "David's tent" represents David's family, including his descendants. Sitting on the throne represents ruling. AT: "a descendant of David will rule faithfully" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

as he seeks justice

Seeking justice represents wanting to do what is just. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 16:6-7

the glory of Moab will disappear

"The country of Moab will no longer be glorious"

translationWords

Isaiah 17

Isaiah 17:intro-0

Isaiah 17 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

The ULB indents the lines in 17:1-6, 9-14 because they are part of a long quotation.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Damascus

This chapter prophesies destruction against the people of Damascus. Damascus was the capital of Aram. The people of Damascus worship gods other than Yahweh and have fought Yahweh's people. (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/falsegod.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/peopleofgod.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# Ephraim

This chapter prophesied destruction against the kingdom of Israel. They are also called Ephraim in this chapter. Both the northern kingdom of Israel and Aram were conquered at about the same time in history.

Isaiah 17:1-3

about Damascus

Damascus is the name of a city. See how you translated this in Isaiah 7:8. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

The cities of Aroer will be abandoned

This can be stated in active form. "All the people will abandon the cities of Aroer" (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/translate-names/01.md]])

no one will frighten them

The word "them" refers to the sheep.

Fortified cities will disappear from Ephraim

Ephraim was the largest tribe in Israel. Here it represents the entire northern kingdom of Israel. AT: "Strong cities will disappear from Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

will disappear

This does not mean that they will vanish, but that the cities will be destroyed.

the kingdom from Damascus

The words "will disappear" are understood from the previous phrase. Damascus was where the king of Aram ruled from. The kingdom disappearing represents the king no longer having royal power. AT: "the kingdom will disappear from Damascus" or "there will be no royal power in Damascus" (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/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Aram

Aram is the name of a nation. See how you translated this in Isaiah 7:1. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

they will be like the glory of the people of Israel

Since the people of Israel were no longer glorious, this meant that the remnant of Aram would no longer be glorious. AT: "they will no longer have glory, just like the people of Israel" or "I will bring shame on them as I did the people of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-irony/01.md]])

this is the declaration of Yahweh of hosts

Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Translate as in Isaiah 14:22. AT: "this is what Yahweh of hosts has declared" or "this is what I, Yahweh of hosts, have declared" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 17:4-5

It will come about

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

the glory of Jacob will become thin, and the fatness of his flesh will become lean

Here "Jacob" refers to the kingdom of Israel. Israel would no longer be glorious. Rather it would be weak and poor. (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]])

It will be as when a harvester gathers the standing grain ... in the Valley of Rephaim

There will be nothing left in the land after God punishes the people of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

the Valley of Rephaim

This is a valley where people normally grew and harvested much food. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 17:6-7

General Information:

This continues to compare the nation of Israel with a field after it is harvested. (See: Isaiah 17:4-5)

Gleanings will be left

The word "Gleanings" here represents the people who will still live in Israel. AT: "But there will be a few people left in Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

as when the olive tree is shaken

People harvested olive trees by shaking them so that the olives would fall out. AT: "like the few olives that remain on the olive trees after people harvest them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

four or five

The word "olives" is understood from the phrase before this. AT: "four or five olives" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

this is the declaration of Yahweh, the God of Israel

Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. AT: "this is what Yahweh, the God of Israel, has declared" or "this is what I, Yahweh, the God of Israel, have declared" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

men will look toward their Maker ... will look to the Holy One of Israel

Looking toward God here represents hoping that he will help them. AT: "men will hope that their Maker, the Holy One of Israel, will help them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

men will look

The word "men" represents people in general. AT: "people will look" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

their eyes will look

Here "eyes" represents the people who look. AT: "they will look" or "the people will look" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Holy One of Israel

See how you translated this in Isaiah 1:4.

translationWords

Isaiah 17:8-9

They will not look to the altars

Looking to the altars represents worshiping idols with the hope that the idols will help them. AT: "They will not worship idols at their altars" or "The people of Israel will not go to their altars and ask their idols to help them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the work of their hands

Here the people are represented by their "hands" to emphasize that they made the altars or idols. AT: "that they made with their hands" or "which they themselves built" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

what their fingers have made ... the Asherah poles or the sun images

The second phrase identifies the things that the people made. Speaking of the fingers here emphasizes that the people made them, so these things are not real gods. AT: "the Asherah poles or the sun images, which they themselves made" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

that were forsaken because of the people of Israel

It can be made explicit who left these lands. This can be stated in active form. AT: "that the Hivites and Amorites left after the people of Israel came" (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 17:10-11

For you have forgotten

Here "you" refers to the people of Israel. The word "forgotten" does not mean they have no memory of God. It means they no longer obey him. AT: "For you no longer obey"

the God of your salvation

"the God who saves you"

have ignored the rock of your strength

This compares God to a large rock which people could climb on to get away from their enemies or hide behind. AT: "have ignored God, who is like a rock that protects you" or "have ignored the one who protects you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the harvest will fail

"there will not be much fruit for you to harvest"

translationWords

Isaiah 17:12-14

The uproar of many peoples, that roar like the roaring of the seas

An uproar is a very loud noise. AT: "The sound of many people, that is very loud like the seas" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

the rushing of nations, that rush like the rushing of mighty waters

The enemy armies appear to be a powerful force that no one can stop. AT: "the nations come rushing in like the mighty waters" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

the rushing of nations

The word "nations" refers to the armies of those nations. AT: "the rushing of the enemy armies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

as the dead weeds on the mountains before the wind ... like weeds whirling before a storm

These two phrases mean the same thing. The enemy armies seem powerful but God will easily stop them and send them away. AT: "like dead weeds on the mountains that the wind blows away ... like weeds that whirl and blow away as a storm approaches" (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-simile/01.md]])

This is the portion of those

What happens to them is spoken of as if it is a portion that they inherit. AT: "This is what happens to those" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

loot us ... rob us

The word "us" refers to Isaiah and the people of Judah.

translationWords

Isaiah 18

Isaiah 18:intro-0

Isaiah 18 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Cush

This chapter records prophecies against the nation of Cush. They are being punished by Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Metaphors

This chapter uses many metaphors to describe the destruction coming to the people of Cush. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Isaiah 18:1-2

Woe to the land of the rustling of wings, which is along the rivers of Cush

Possible meanings of "the rustling of wings" are 1) the boats that have sails are spoken of as having wings. AT: "Woe to those who live in the land beyond the rivers of Cush, whose many ships look like insects on the water" or 2) the rustling of wings refers to the noise of insects that have wings, perhaps locusts. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

by the sea

The Nile River was very wide, and people in Egypt and Cush referred to it as "the sea." AT: "on the great river" or "along the Nile River" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

vessels of papyrus

Papyrus is a tall plant that grows along the side of the Nile River. People bound together papyrus bundles to make boats. AT: "papyrus boats" or "boats made of reeds" or (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

a nation tall and smooth ... a people feared far and near ... a nation strong and trampling down, whose land the rivers divide

These phrases all describe the people of one nation.

a nation tall and smooth

The word "nation" here refers to the people of that nation. AT: "a nation whose people are tall and have smooth skin" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

a people feared far and near

The words "far" and "near" are used together to mean "everywhere." AT: "a people who are feared everywhere" or "a people that everyone in the earth fears" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

a nation strong and trampling down

Trampling down represents conquering other nations. AT: "a nation that is strong and conquers other nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the rivers divide

This probably refers to many rivers that flow through the nation so they divide it into different parts.

translationWords

Isaiah 18:3

Connecting Statement:

Verse 3 tells what the messengers in Isaiah 18:2 must say to the people of the world.

All you inhabitants of the world ... you who live on the earth

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. AT: "All you people on the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

when a signal is lifted up on the mountains, look; and when the trumpet is blown, listen

The signal and trumpet were to call people to battle. The commands to look and listen are commands to pay attention and prepare for battle. AT: "pay attention when the signal is lifted up on the mountains and the trumpet is blown"

when a signal is lifted up on the mountains, look

The signal was a flag used to call people to battle. This can be stated in active form. AT: "pay attention when you see the battle flag on the mountains" (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]])

when the trumpet is blown, listen

The trumpets were used to call people to battle. This can be stated in active form. AT: "pay attention when you hear the sound of the battle trumpets" (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 18:4-5

General Information:

God uses a parable about a farmer in a vineyard in order to describe how he will punish a certain nation. That nation is either Ethiopia or Ethiopia's enemy.

This is what Yahweh said to me

"Yahweh said to me." Here the word "me" refers to Isaiah.

I will quietly observe from my home

What God will observe can be stated clearly. AT: "I will quietly observe that nation from my home" or "From my home, I will quietly watch what the people of that nation do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

like the simmering heat in sunshine, like a cloud of mist in the heat of harvest

These phrases show how quietly God will watch the nation. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Before the harvest

This is a harvest of grapes. This can be made explicit. AT: "Before the grape harvest" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

when the blossoming is over

It can be stated clearly that this refers to blossoms on grape vines. AT: "when flowers have finished growing on the grape vines" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

he will cut off the sprigs with pruning hooks

Yahweh will cut off the branches before the grapes can ripen. AT: "Yahweh will cut off the branches with knives before their produce fruit" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

pruning hooks

A pruning hook is a knife that people use to cut branches off of vines or other plants.

he will cut down and take away the spreading branches

Yahweh will throw away the branches in judgment.

translationWords

Isaiah 18:6-7

They will be left together

God seems to change from telling the parable to speaking more directly about the nation. This can be stated clearly. AT: "Those who are killed will be left together" or "Like branches that are cut off and thrown away, the bodies of those who are killed will be left on the ground" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parables/01.md]])

The birds will summer on them

"The birds will eat them during the summer." The word "birds" refers to birds that eat the flesh of dead bodies.

all the animals of the earth

"all kinds of wild animals"

will winter on them

"will eat them in the winter"

a people tall and smooth ... a people feared far and near ... a nation strong and trampling down, whose land the rivers divide

These phrases all describe the people of one nation. See how you translated these phrases in Isaiah 18:2.

a people tall and smooth

"a people who are tall and have smooth skin"

a people feared far and near

a nation strong and trampling down

Trampling down represents conquering other nations. AT: "a nation that is strong and conquers other nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

to the place of the name of Yahweh of hosts, to Mount Zion

The word "name" refers to Yahweh. AT: "to Mount Zion, where Yahweh of hosts dwells" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 19

Isaiah 19:intro-0

Isaiah 19 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in 19:1-18.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Egypt

This chapter prophesied destruction against the nation of Egypt. Their destruction will come from internal division instead of being conquered by another nation. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Imagery

Some of the imagery used in this chapter may be connected to the worship of specific false gods. One important god the people of Canaan worshiped was Baal, the god of rain or storms. One of the important gods the Egyptians worshiped was Ra, the god of the sun. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/falsegod.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# "In that day"

This changes the reference from the time when Assyria comes to dominate the world and looks to a more distant future day.

Isaiah 19:1-2

See

"Look" or "Listen" or "Pay attention to what I am about to tell you"

Yahweh rides on a swift cloud

Yahweh seems to be pictured here as riding on a cloud as if he was riding in a chariot. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the idols of Egypt quake before him

The idols are described as having feelings of fear as Yahweh approaches. AT: "the idols of Egypt tremble in fear before Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

the hearts of the Egyptians melt within themselves

The heart melting represents losing their courage. AT: "the Egyptians have no more courage" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

a man against his neighbor

The words "will fight" are understood from the previous phrase. AT: "a man will fight against his neighbor" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

city will be against city

The word "city" represents the people of the city. AT: "people of one city will fight against people of another city" or "people from different cities will fight against one another" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

kingdom against kingdom

The words "will be" or "will fight" are understood from the previous phrases. AT: "kingdom will be against kingdom" or "kingdom will fight against kingdom" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

kingdom against kingdom

The word "kingdom" refers to a smaller kingdom within Egypt. It may also be called a province. It represents the people of that kingdom or province. AT: "the people of one province will be against the people of another province" or "people from different provinces will fight against one another" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 19:3-4

The spirit of Egypt will be weakened from within. I will destroy his advice

The nation of Egypt is spoken of here as if it was a person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

The spirit of Egypt will be weakened from within

This can be expressed in active form. AT: "I will weaken the spirit of Egypt from within" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

I will destroy his advice, though they sought the advice of ... spiritualists

"They sought the advice of ... spiritualists, but that will do them no good. It will not stop me from destroying his advice"

I will destroy his advice

Possible meanings are 1) Yahweh will cause the advice that he gives to be ineffective or 2) Yahweh will cause him to be unable to give any advice. This can be reworded so that the abstract noun "advice" is expressed as the verb "advise." AT: "I will confuse those who advise the king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

mediums ... spiritualists

These are people who claim to speak with those who have died.

I will give the Egyptians into the hand of a harsh master

Here "hand" refers to power or control. AT: "I will give the Egyptians over to the control of a harsh master" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

this is the declaration of the Lord Yahweh of hosts

Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Translate as in Isaiah 3:15. AT: "this is what the Lord Yahweh of hosts has declared" or "this is what I, the Lord Yahweh of hosts, have declared" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 19:5-6

The waters of the sea will dry up, and the river will dry up and become empty

Egyptians referred to the Nile River as "the sea." These two phrases mean basically the same thing. AT: "The Nile River will completely dry up" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

become foul

"become foul-smelling" or "stink"

dwindle

"be low"

the reeds and flags will wither away

"Reeds" and "flags" refer to two similar kinds of water plants. AT: "the plants along the river will die and decay"

translationWords

Isaiah 19:7-8

every sown field beside the Nile

"the fields near the Nile where people have planted crops"

The fishermen will wail and mourn, and all who cast a hook into the Nile will mourn, and those who spread nets on the waters will grieve

These three phrases mean basically the same thing. If necessary, the reason they will grieve can be stated clearly. AT: "The fishermen who catch fish with hooks or nets will cry in despair because the fish in the Nile have died" (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-parallelism/01.md]])

cast a hook into the Nile

In order to catch fish, some people put a little food on a hook, tie the hook to a string, and throw the hook into the water. When a fish tries to eat the food, its mouth gets stuck on the hook, and the person pulls the fish out of the water. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

cast

"throw"

spread nets on the waters

In order to catch fish, some people toss a net on the water. When fish get caught in it, they pull the net with the fish out of the water. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 19:9-10

The workers in combed flax and those who weave white cloth will turn pale. The cloth workers of Egypt will be crushed

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. If necessary, the reason they will be distressed can be stated clearly. AT: "The linen makers of Egypt will be humiliated because there is no flax" (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-parallelism/01.md]])

The workers in combed flax

"Those who work with combed flax"

combed flax

Flax is a plant that grows along the Nile River. People comb its fibers in order to separate them, and use them to make thread for linen cloth. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

will turn pale

"will be ashamed"

The cloth workers of Egypt

"The people of Egypt who make cloth"

will be crushed

Being crushed represents being discouraged. AT: "will be discouraged" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

work for hire

"work for pay"

will be grieved within themselves

"will feel very sad"

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/names/egypt.md]]

Isaiah 19:11-12

The princes of Zoan are completely foolish. The advice of the wisest advisors of Pharaoh has become senseless

These two phrases are similar in meaning. Either the princes of Zoan are also the wisest advisors or Pharaoh, or they are another group of people that also are shown to be foolish. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Zoan

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

How can you say to Pharaoh ... kings?

Isaiah uses a question to mock those in Egypt who claim to be wise. AT: "You foolishly say to Pharaoh ... kings." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Where then are your wise men?

Isaiah uses a question to mock the wise men. The word "your" refers to Pharaoh. AT: "You do not have any wise men." or "Your wise men are fools." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Let them tell you and make known what Yahweh of hosts plans concerning Egypt

Isaiah is implying that wise men should be able to understand God's plans, but Isaiah does not really believe they are wise. AT: "If they were really wise, they would be able to tell you what Yahweh of hosts plans concerning Egypt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-irony/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 19:13-15

they have made Egypt go astray, who are the cornerstones of her tribes

The princes of Zoan and Memphis are spoken of as if they are the cornerstones of buildings because they are an important part of the community. AT: "the leaders have made Egypt go astray" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

princes of Zoan

Zoan is a city in northern Egypt. See how you translated this in Isaiah 19:11.

Memphis

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

made Egypt go astray

The word "Egypt" represents the people of Egypt. Going astray represents doing what is wrong. AT: "made the people of Egypt go astray" or "made the people of Egypt do what is wrong" (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]])

Yahweh has mixed a spirit of distortion into her midst

Isaiah speaks of Yahweh's judgment as if Egypt was a cup of wine. He speaks of Yahweh causing the leaders' thoughts to be distorted as if their distorted thoughts were a liquid that Yahweh mixed in with the wine. AT: "Yahweh has judged them by distorting their thoughts" or "Yahweh has judged Egypt by distorting its leaders' thoughts, as intoxicating drinks confuse people's thoughts" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

distortion

"perverseness" or "confusion"

into her midst

Here "her" refers to Egypt. Nations are sometimes spoken of as if they were women. AT: "within Egypt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

they have led Egypt astray

Here, "they" refers to the leaders described in the previous verses. The word "Egypt" represents the people of Egypt. AT: "the princes have led the people of Egypt astray" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

have led Egypt astray

Leading people astray represents influencing them to do what is wrong. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

like a drunk staggering in his vomit

Isaiah speaks of the people of Egypt doing what is wrong as if they were made to wander about like a drunken person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

whether head or tail

The "head," the part of an animal a person would want to be, represents the leader. The "tail" is the opposite and represents people who follow. AT: "whether leader or follower" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

palm branch or reed

The "palm branch" grows high on the tree and represents people who are wealthy and important. The "reed" grows in shallow water and represents people who are poor and unimportant. See how you translated similar phrases in Isaiah 9:14. AT: "whether they are important or unimportant" or "whether rich or poor" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 19:16-17

Egyptians will be like women

This emphasizes that the people of Egypt will be afraid and helpless when God punishes them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

because of the upraised hand of Yahweh of hosts that he raises over them

Here "hand" refers to God's power, and raising the hand against them represents punishing them. AT: "because Yahweh of hosts has raised his powerful hand to punish them" (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]])

The land of Judah will become a cause of staggering to Egypt

The "land of Judah" and "Egypt" refer to the people in those places. The Egyptians will stagger because they are afraid. AT: "The people of Judah will cause the Egyptians to stagger" or "The people of Judah will cause the Egyptians to be terribly afraid" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Whenever anyone reminds them of her, they will be afraid

Here, "them" and "they" refer to the Egyptians and "her" refers to the people of Judah. AT: "Whenever anyone reminds the Egyptians of the people of Judah, the Egyptians will be afraid"

translationWords

Isaiah 19:18

there will be five cities in the land of Egypt that speak

This refers to the people of those cities. AT: "the people in five Egyptian cities will speak" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the language of Canaan

This refers to Hebrew, the language of the people of God living in the land of Canaan. Here Canaan represents the people who live there. AT: "the language of the people of Canaan" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

swear allegiance

"promise to be loyal"

One of these will be called

This can be stated in active form. "People will call one of these cities" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

called The City of the Sun

It is not clear whether the Hebrew word translated "Sun" here means "sun" or "destruction." Is is also not clear what the name tells us about the city. AT: "the city called Sun City" or "the city called Destruction City" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-textvariants/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 19:19-20

a stone pillar at the border to Yahweh

The phrase "the border" refers to the border of Egypt. AT: "a stone pillar to Yahweh at the border of Egypt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

It will be as a sign and a witness to Yahweh of hosts in the land of Egypt

The abstract nouns "sign" and "witness" can be expressed with the verbs "show" and prove." AT: "The altar will show and prove that Yahweh of hosts is in the land of Egypt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

to Yahweh of hosts in the land of Egypt

Yahweh being in the land of Egypt represents the people of Egypt worshiping him. AT: "that the people in the land of Egypt worship Yahweh of hosts" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

When they cry

"When the Egyptians cry"

because of oppressors

"because people are treating them harshly" or "because others are causing them to suffer"

he will send them a savior and a defender

"Yahweh will send someone to save and defend the Egyptians"

he will deliver them

Who Yahweh will deliver them from can be made explicit. AT: "Yahweh will deliver the Egyptians from their oppressors" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 19:21-22

Yahweh will become known to Egypt

Here "Egypt" refers to the people of Egypt. This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will make the people of Egypt know 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]])

will acknowledge Yahweh

"will accept the truth about Yahweh" or "will agree to the truth about Yahweh"

They will worship

The object of their worship can be made explicit. AT: "They will worship Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

will make vows to Yahweh and fulfill them

"will make promises to Yahweh and keep them" or "they will make promises to Yahweh and they will do what they have promised to do"

Yahweh will afflict Egypt

Here, "Egypt" refers to the people of Egypt. AT: "Yahweh will afflict the people of Egypt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

afflict

"strike" or "punish"

afflicting and healing

The word "them" is understood in this phrase. AT: "afflicting them and healing them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

afflicting and healing

How this phrase relates to the phrase before it can be made clear with the words "after" and "also." AT: "and after he afflicts them, he will also heal them"

translationWords

Isaiah 19:23

there will be a highway

A highway is a large road on which many people can travel.

the Assyrian will come

"the Assyrian" refers to a person from Assyria, but represents anyone from Assyria who comes to Egypt. AT: "Assyrians will come" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

the Egyptian to Assyria

The words "will come" are understood. AT: "the Egyptian will come to Assyria" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

the Egyptian

This refers to a person from Egypt, but represents anyone from Egypt who comes to Assyria. AT: "Egyptians" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

the Egyptians will worship with the Assyrians

The object of their worship can be made explicit. AT: "the Egyptians and Assyrians will worship Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 19:24-25

Israel will be the third with Egypt and Assyria

The names of the three nations represent the people of those nations. AT: "the Israelites will be the third with the Egyptians and Assyrians" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

be the third with

Possible meanings are 1) "join together with" or 2) "be the third blessing with" or 3) "be equal to." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-ordinal/01.md]])

Blessed be Egypt, my people; Assyria, the work of my hands; and Israel, my inheritance

The names of the three nations refer to the people of those nations. This can be stated in active form. AT: "I have blessed you, people of Egypt, because you are my people; and I have blessed you, people of Assyria, because I created you; and I have blessed you, people of Israel, because I securely possess you" (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 work of my hands

Here "hands" refers to God's power and action. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 20

Isaiah 20:intro-0

Isaiah 20 General Notes

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Naked and barefoot

This is an image used in this chapter to describe Assyria's victory over Egypt and Ethiopia. While they will be defeated, they will not be totally destroyed. Instead, they will be left with nothing. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Isaiah 21 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in 21:1-10, 13-17.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Cush

Dumah and Seir are places in Edom. Part of this chapter is a prophecy against Cush. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# The desert by the sea

This is a metaphor for an unknown nation. Scholars are divided over the proper identity of this nation, but it is probably Babylon. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

# Mystery

The fulfillment of this chapter is very mysterious. It is unknown who is truly being addressed and how this is to be fulfilled in history. The translator should not attempt to give the reader insight into this prophecy's fulfillment. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/fulfill.md]])

Isaiah 21:1-2

A declaration

"This is what Yahweh declares" or "This is Yahweh's message"

about the desert by the sea

This refers to the people who live in Babylon as being a desert, even though God has not made it into a desert yet. This event will certainly happen. AT: "about the people who live in a land that soon will be a desert" (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-pastforfuture/01.md]])

Like stormwinds sweeping through the Negev

Isaiah compares the army that will attack the people to a storm with strong winds. They will be quick and powerful. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

from the wilderness

Here "wilderness" refers to the wilderness of Judea. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

from a terrible land

The army is from a people that cause great fear.

A distressing vision has been given to me

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh showed me a troubling vision" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the treacherous man deals treacherously

"those who deceive will deceive"

the destroyer destroys

"those who destroy will destroy"

Go up and attack, Elam; besiege, Media

In the vision given to Isaiah, Yahweh speaks to the armies of Elam and Media as if they are there listening to him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/01.md]])

Go up and attack, Elam; besiege, Media

It is understood that they are to attack the Babylonians. AT: "Go up and attack the Babylonians, you soldiers of Elam; go and besiege the Babylonians, you soldiers of Media" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Elam ... Media

Here "Elam" and "Media" represent the soldiers from these places. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

I will stop all her groaning

Here "her" represents all the people who are suffering because of the Babylonians. Yahweh will cause them to stop groaning when he sends the armies of Elam and Media to destroy the Babylonians. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 21:3-4

my loins are filled with pain

The vision that Isaiah sees is so troubling it causes him physical pain. Here he describes the pain and cramping in the middle part of his body.

pains like the pains of a woman in labor have taken hold of me

Isaiah compares his pain to the pain of a woman giving birth. This emphasizes the great pain he is feeling. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

I am bowed down by what I heard

This can be stated in active form. AT: "What I heard has caused me to bend over in pain" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

I am disturbed by what I saw

This can be stated in active form. AT: "what I saw has greatly troubled me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

My heart pounds, I shake with fear

"My heart beats fast and I am shaking"

translationWords

Isaiah 21:5

They prepare

Here "They" refers to the leaders of Babylon.

prepare the table

Here "table" represents the food that people will eat at the feast. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

arise, princes

Here "princes" refers in general to men with authority and not necessarily to sons of kings.

anoint your shields with oil

Soldiers would put oil on their leather shields so they would stay soft and not crack during battle. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 21:6-7

post a watchman

"tell a watchman to stand on the wall of Jerusalem"

a chariot, a pair of horsemen

"a soldier riding in a chariot, a pair of horses pulling it"

translationWords

Isaiah 21:8-9

Lord, on the watchtower I stand

Here "Lord" refers to the person with authority that commanded the watchman to stand on the wall of Jerusalem.

Babylon has fallen, fallen

Babylon being completely defeated by their enemies is spoken of as if Babylon has fallen. Here "Babylon" is a metonym that represents the people of Babylon. AT: "The people of Babylon are completely defeated" (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]])

fallen, fallen

The word "fallen" is repeated to emphasize that the people of Babylon were completely defeated by their enemies.

translationWords

Isaiah 21:10

My threshed and winnowed ones, children of my threshing floor

The people of Israel suffering because of the Babylonians is spoken of as if the people were grain that was threshed and winnowed. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

My threshed

The word "my" refers to Isaiah.

Yahweh of hosts

See how you translated this in Isaiah 1:9.

translationWords

Isaiah 21:11-12

A declaration

"This is what Yahweh declares" or "This is a message from Yahweh"

about Dumah

This is another name for Edom. Here "Dumah" represents the people who live there. AT: "about the people of Dumah" or "about the people of Edom" (See: [[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]])

One calls to me

Here "me" refers to Isaiah.

Seir

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

Watchman, what is left of the night? Watchman, what is left of the night?

This is repeated to emphasize that the person asking the question is worried and nervous. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

If you want to ask, then ask; and come back again

"Ask me now what you want to know, but also come back later and ask again"

translationWords

Isaiah 21:13-15

A declaration

"This is what Yahweh declares" or "This is the message of Yahweh"

about Arabia

Arabia refers to the population of Arabia. AT: "about the people of Arabia" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

In the wilderness of Arabia

Arabia does not have a forest. AT: "Far off from the road in Arabia" or "Out in the bushes of Arabia" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

caravans

a group of people traveling together

Dedanites

This is a people group that lived in Arabia. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

land of Tema

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

fugitives

A fugitive is a person who runs away so that his enemy will not capture him. See how you translated this in Isaiah 15:5.

with bread

Here "bread" represents food in general. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

from the sword, from the drawn sword, from the bent bow

Here "sword" and "bow" represents the soldiers who attack the inhabitants of Tema. AT: "from their enemies who attack them with swords and bows" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

from the weight of war

The terror and suffering that is experienced during war is spoken of as if war were a heavy weight on people. AT: "from the horrors of war" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 21:16-17

as a laborer hired for a year would see it

"as a hired laborer would count the days of a year." A hired worker is careful to count the days so that he works exactly the amount of time he is paid to work. This means Kedar will be defeated in exactly one year. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

of Kedar

This is a region in Arabia. Kedar represents the population of Kedar. AT: "of the people of Kedar" (See: [[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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 22

Isaiah 22:intro-0

Isaiah 22 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Repentance

On this day of judgment, Judah should be repenting of their sin. Instead, they are celebrating it. Although Judah avoids Yahweh's punishment through the Assyrians, their punishment will still come. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/judge.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/repent.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# "Valley of Visions"

This is a metaphor used in this prophecy against the nation of Judah. (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/prophet.md]])

Isaiah 22:1-2

A declaration

"This is what Yahweh declares" or "This is Yahweh's message"

about the Valley of Vision

Here "Valley" refers to those who live in the valley, that is, Jerusalem. AT: "about those who live in the Valley of Vision" or "about those who live in Jerusalem" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

What is the reason that you have all gone up to the housetops?

Isaiah uses a question to scold the people of Judah. AT: "You should not go and stand on the tops of your houses." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

a town full of revelry

"a town full of people celebrating"

Your dead were not killed with the sword

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Enemy soldiers did not kill your people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

with the sword

Here "sword" represents the soldiers who fight in battle. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 22:3-4

but they were captured without using a bow

This can be stated in active form. AT: "but the enemy captured your rulers who were not even carrying a bow" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

all of them were captured together

This can be stated in active form. AT: "the enemy captured all of them together" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Therefore I said

Here "I" refers to Isaiah.

of the daughter of my people

Here "daughter" represents the people and may imply Isaiah's feeling of love for them. AT: "of my people whom I love" or "of my people" (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 22:5-7

For there is a day

"For there will be a time"

of tumult, treading down, and confusion for the Lord Yahweh of hosts

"when the Lord Yahweh of hosts will cause panic, treading down, and confusion"

treading down

Possible meanings are 1) this refers to soldiers marching or 2) people in general are running in panic and not sure where to go.

in the Valley of Vision

This refers to Jerusalem. See how you translated this in Isaiah 22:1.

people crying out to the mountains

Possible meanings are 1) "people in the mountains will hear their cries" or 2) "the people's cries will echo off the mountains"

Elam takes up the quiver

The quiver is a bag to carry arrows and represents the archer's weapons. AT: "The soldiers of Elam take their bows and arrows" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Kir lays the shield bare

Here "Kir" represents the soldiers. AT: "the soldiers of Kir will take their shields out of their covers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Kir

Kir is a city in Media. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

your choicest valleys

Here "your" refers to the people of Jerusalem. Isaiah does include himself as one of the people of Jerusalem. AT: "our best valleys"

translationWords

Isaiah 22:8-9

General Information:

Isaiah continues to describe a time in the future when an army will attack the people of Jerusalem. Past tense verbs can be translated with future tense verbs. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pastforfuture/01.md]])

He took away the protection of Judah

The abstract noun "protection" can be stated as a verb. AT: "Yahweh will take away everything that has protected the people of Judah" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

you looked in that day to the weapons

Here the phrase "to look to" means to trust in something. AT: "to defend yourselves you will get the weapons" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Palace of the Forest

This was a part of the temple in Jerusalem where they stored their weapons.

you collected the water of the lower pool

The people will store water so that they will have enough to drink while their enemies surround the city. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 22:10-11

General Information:

Isaiah continues to describe a time in the future when an army will attack the people of Jerusalem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pastforfuture/01.md]])

You counted the houses

Here "counted" means they inspected the houses to find material to help them rebuild the city wall.

You made a reservoir

"You made a storage place"

between the two walls

It is unclear what two walls Isaiah meant. The main point is that they built the reservoir within the city walls.

the city's maker

This refers to Yahweh.

translationWords

Isaiah 22:12-14

Yahweh of hosts

See how you translated this in Isaiah 1:9.

for shaved heads

This was a sign of mourning and repenting. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we will die

Here "eat and drink" represents having a party and over indulging in food and wine. AT: "we may as well have fun now by eating and drinking all we want, for we will die soon" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

This was revealed in my ears by Yahweh of hosts

Here "ears" represents Isaiah as a whole. This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh of hosts revealed this to me" (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]])

Surely this iniquity will not be forgiven you, even when you die

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Surely I will not forgive you for these sinful things you have done, even when you die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

even when you die

Possible meanings are 1) Yahweh will never forgive them, even after they die or 2) Yahweh will not forgive them until they die.

translationWords

Isaiah 22:15-16

Shebna

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

who is over the house

Here "house" represents those in the king's palace. AT: "who is in charge of all those who work in the palace" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

What are you doing here and who gave you permission ... in the rock?

Yahweh uses this question to scold Shebna. AT: "You have no right ... in the rock!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

cut out a tomb ... hewing out a grave ... carving out a resting place

These three phrases all refer to making a burial tomb. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

on the heights

The most important people in Israel had tombs in the highest places. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 22:17-19

General Information:

Isaiah continues to speak God's message to Shebna.

He will surely wind you round and round, and toss you like a ball into a vast country

The enemy soldiers coming and taking Shebna as a captive to a foreign land is spoken of as if Yahweh were throwing him like a ball into another land. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you will be the shame of your master's house

Here "house" represents the people who work in the king's palace. AT: "you will cause shame for all those in your master's palace" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

I will thrust you from your office and from your station. You will be pulled down

Yahweh causing Shebna to no longer work in the king's palace is spoken of as if Yahweh will throw him to the ground. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

You will be pulled down

This can be stated in active form. AT: "I will bring you down from your honored position" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 22:20-22

this is the declaration of Yahweh of hosts

the peg driven in a firm place ... will be cut off

Yahweh causing Shebna to lose his authority in the king's palace is spoken of as if Shebna were a peg in the wall that breaks off and falls to the ground. This emphasizes that Shebna thought his authority was secure but God will remove him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the weight that was on it will be cut off

Here "weight" represents Shebna's power and authority. It is spoken of as if it were an object hanging on the peg that represents Shebna. Yahweh causing Shebna to lose his power and authority is spoken of as if someone were to cut off the object that was hanging on the peg. (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]])

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/yahwehofhosts.md]]

Isaiah 23

Isaiah 23:intro-0

Isaiah 23 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Phoenicia

This chapter prophesies destruction against several cities in Phoenicia as well as in Tarshish. The exact location of Tarshish is unknown. Because of the locations mentioned in this chapter, it appears that the Assyrians will conquer many of the nations on the Mediterranean Sea. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]])

Isaiah 23:1-3

General Information:

Isaiah continues to tell what God has judged against the nations in 13:1-23:18.

A declaration about Tyre

"This is what Yahweh declares about Tyre"

Howl, you ships of Tarshish

Here "ships" represents the men on the ships. Isaiah speaks to the men on the ships of Tarshish as if they could hear him. AT: "Cry out in despair you men on the ships of Tarshish" (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]])

harbor

an area of the sea that is near land and safe for ships

from the land of Cyprus it has been revealed to them

This phrase can be stated in active form. AT: "the men heard about Tyre when they were in the land of Cyprus" (See: [[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-activepassive/01.md]])

Be silent, you inhabitants of the coast

Isaiah speaks to the people who live on the coast as if they could hear him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/01.md]])

Be silent

This is an idiom. Here silence is meant to signal shock and amazement. AT: "Be shocked" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

of the coast

The "coast" is the land near or around the sea or ocean. Here it refers to the people who live in Phoenicia which borders the Mediterranean sea.

the merchant of Sidon, who travels over the sea, has filled you

Here "merchant" means "many merchants." AT: "the merchants of Sidon, who travel over the sea, have made you rich" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

Upon the great waters was the grain of Shihor

Shihor was the name of a valley near the Nile River in Egypt known for its production of grain. AT: "The men traveled on the large sea to transport the grain from Shihor in Egypt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

the harvest of the Nile was her produce

The "harvest of the Nile" refers to the grain that was harvested near the Nile River and transported on the river and then to Phoenicia. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-possession/01.md]])

her produce

"its produce." It was common to refer to the river as "her."

it became the commerce of the nations

Commerce is the activity of buying and selling goods. Here "nations" represents the people. AT: "you were where people from other nations came to buy and sell goods" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 23:4-5

for the sea has spoken, the mighty one of the sea ... nor brought up young women

Possible meanings are 1) Yahweh describes the city of Tyre as a mother who speaks about the people who live in the city as her children, or 2) Yahweh is describing the Mediterranean Sea as speaking. The people of Tyre considered the sea their god and father. In either meaning the speaker mourns because its children are destroyed. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 23:6-7

Cross over to Tarshish

"Make your way to Tarshish." Tarshish was the farthest land the people of Tyre traveled to do business. It will be the only place of safety for those who escape from Tyre.

Has this happened to you, the joyful city, whose origin is from ancient times ... to settle?

Yahweh uses a question to mock Tyre. This rhetorical questions can be translated as a statement. AT: "This has indeed happened to you who were full of joy in the ancient city of Tyre ... to settle." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

the joyful city

Here "city" represents the people. AT: "the joyful people who live in the city of Tyre" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

whose feet carried her far away to foreign places to settle

Here "feet" represents the whole person. AT: "who went to distant places to live and make money" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

her far away

Here "her" refers to the city of Tyre which represents the people of Tyre. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 23:8-9

Who has planned this against Tyre ... of the earth?

Isaiah uses a question to mock Tyre. The word "this" refers to God's plans to destroy Tyre which Isaiah described in 23:1-7. Also, "Tyre" refers to the people who live in Tyre. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. AT: "It was Yahweh who has planned to destroy the people of Tyre ... of the earth." (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-metonymy/01.md]])

the giver of crowns

Here "crown" refers to the power a person has as a ruler over people. AT: "who gives people power to rule over others" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

whose merchants are princes

The merchants are compared to princes to emphasize how much power they had when they went to different lands. AT: "whose merchants are like princes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

whose traders are the honored ones of the earth

This can be stated in active form. AT: "whose traders the people of the earth give the highest honors" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

to dishonor her pride and all her glory

"to dishonor them because they were proud of their own glory"

her pride ... her glory ... her honored ones

Here "her" refers to the city of Tyre which represents the people who live there. AT: "their pride ... their glory ... their honored one" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 23:10-12

Plow your land, as one plows the Nile, daughter of Tarshish. There is no longer a marketplace in Tyre

Possible meanings are 1) Isaiah is telling the people of Tarshish to start planting crops since they can no longer trade with Tyre or 2) Isaiah is telling the people of Tarshish they are free from Tyre's control. AT: "Pass through your land like a river, daughter of Tarshish. The people of Tyre no longer have any power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

daughter of Tarshish

The "daughter" of a city represents the people of the city. AT: "the people of Tarshish" or "the people who live in Tarshish" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Yahweh has reached out with his hand over the sea, and he has shaken the kingdoms

Yahweh using his power to control the sea and the people of mighty kingdoms is spoken of as if Yahweh reached out his hand and shook kingdoms. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

has reached out with his hand over the sea

Here "hand" refers to God's power and control. AT: "has shown his power over the sea" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

oppressed virgin daughter of Sidon

Here "virgin daughter" represents the people of Sidon. AT: "people of Sidon, because other people will oppress you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 23:13-14

See the land of the Chaldeans

"Chaldeans" here is another name for Babylonians. AT: "See what happened to the land of the Babylonians" or "See what has happened to Babylonia"

siege towers

Soldiers built towers or dirt ramps to attack over the walls of a city.

Howl, you ships of Tarshish

Here "ships" represents the men on the ships. See how you translated this in Isaiah 23:1. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

for your refuge has been destroyed

This can be stated in active form. AT: "for enemies have destroyed your refuge" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 23:15-16

In that day

"At that time" or "Then"

Tyre will be forgotten for seventy years

Since people will no longer go to Tyre to buy or sell goods, it will be like they have forgotten about the city. This can be stated in active form. AT: "for seventy years it will be like the people have forgotten about Tyre" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

for seventy years

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

like the days of a king

"like the years of a king" or "which is about as long as a king lives"

like in the song of the prostitute ... so that you may be remembered

This speaks about the people of Tyre as if they were a prostitute. Just as a prostitute who is no longer popular may sing in the streets to regain her former lovers, the people of Tyre will try to get people from other nations to return to them to continue trading so that the people of Tyre will be rich and powerful again. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

so that you may be remembered

This can be stated in active form. AT: "so that people remember you" or "so that people return to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 23:17-18

It will come about that

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

seventy years

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

Yahweh will help Tyre

Here "Tyre" represents the people who live in Tyre. AT: "Yahweh will help the people of Tyre" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

she will start making money again by doing the work of a prostitute ... of the earth

Isaiah compares the people of Tyre with a prostitute. Just as the prostitute sells herself for money to any man, the people of Tyre will again buy and sell to all kingdoms. AT: "And like a prostitute they will buy and sell will all the kingdoms of the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

They will not be stored up or kept

This can be stated in active form. AT: "The merchants will not store away their money" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

those who live in Yahweh's presence

"those who obey and serve Yahweh"

to supply them with abundant food

"so they will have enough food to eat"

translationWords

Isaiah 24

Isaiah 24:intro-0

Isaiah 24 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

While it appears that this chapter is a continuation of the prophecy from the previous chapter, it actually looks at the whole of the Assyrian conquest as Yahweh's punishment on the world. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Covenant

The mention of an "everlasting covenant" in this chapter is probably not to a specific covenant with Abraham or Moses. Instead, it is an expectation that mankind would obey Yahweh. Some consider this to be a covenant Yahweh made with Adam. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/eternity.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/covenant.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# Reign of Yahweh

This chapter appears to prophesy about a time of restoration when the messiah will reign. This chapter pictures a time of great peace and harmony in the world. The translator should not add explanation, but should try to maintain the tense of the original text, as a future or uncompleted action. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/restore.md]], [[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/christ.md]])

Isaiah 24:1-2

to empty the earth

"to make the earth desolate" or "to destroy everything on the earth"

It will come about that

This phrase marks an important event. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

as with ... so with

What Yahweh will do is not stated here, but it is understood. This shows that God will treat all people the same way. AT: "as Yahweh scatters ... so he will scatter"(See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

the priest ... the giver of interest

In 24:2 Isaiah lists several classes of people. They can be expressed as plural nouns as in the UDB. AT: "the priests ... those who give interest" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

the receiver of interest

"the one who owes money." The word "interest" means the extra money someone has to pay so that he may borrow money.

the giver of interest

"the one who is owed money"

translationWords

Isaiah 24:3-5

The earth will be completely devastated and completely stripped

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will completely devastate the earth and he will remove everything with value" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Yahweh has spoken this word

"Yahweh has said he would"

The earth dries up and withers, the world shrivels up and fades away

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. AT: "Everything on earth will dry up and die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

The earth ... the world

Both of these represent everything that is on the earth. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

The earth is polluted by its inhabitants

The people sinning and making the earth unacceptable to God is spoken of as if the people made the earth physically unclean. This can be stated in active form. AT: "The people have polluted the earth" (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]])

they have transgressed the laws, violated the statutes, and broken the everlasting covenant

"they have not obeyed God's laws and statutes, and they have broken God's eternal covenant"

translationWords

Isaiah 24:6-7

General Information:

Isaiah continues to describe a time in the future when God will judge the earth. Prophets sometimes describe a future event as something in the past or in the present. This emphasizes the event certainly will happen. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pastforfuture/01.md]])

a curse devours the earth

Yahweh cursing the earth and destroying it is spoken of as if a curse were either a wild animal that completely eats the earth or a fire that completely burns up the earth. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

its inhabitants are found guilty

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will declare that the people are guilty" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 24:8-9

General Information:

tambourines ... lyre

These are musical instruments. See how you translated these in Isaiah 5:12.

translationWords

Isaiah 24:10-11

General Information:

The city of chaos has been broken down

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will break down the city of chaos" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

The city of chaos

Possible meanings are 1) the city was in chaos before the Lord breaks it down; the people did not obey God, the government was corrupt, and the city was full of drinking and parties, or 2)the city will be in chaos after God breaks it down. The walls and buildings that were once built strong and tall are now in ruins on the ground. With either meaning it does not mean one city. It refers to cities in general.

every house is closed up and empty

This can be stated in active form. AT: "the people will close up their houses and leave them empty" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

because of the wine

"because there is no wine"

all joy is darkened, the gladness of the land has disappeared

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. AT: "all joy will be gone from the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

gladness of the land

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

translationWords

Isaiah 24:12-13

General Information:

In the city is left a desolation

The abstract noun "desolation" can be stated as "desolate" or "empty." AT: "The city is desolate" or "The city is left empty" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

In the city

This is not a specific city but cities in general. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

as when an olive tree is beaten, as the gleanings when the grape harvest is done

This compares the nations after Yahweh devastates the land to trees and vines after their fruit has been picked. This means there will be very few people left in the land. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 24:14-15

They will lift up their voices and shout the majesty of Yahweh

The phrase "lift up their voices" is an idiom that means to speak loudly. AT: "They will sing and shout about the majesty of Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

They will

Here "They" refers to those who are still alive after Yahweh devastates the earth.

and will joyfully shout from the sea

Here "the sea" refers to the Mediterranean Sea which is west of Israel. AT: "and those in the west towards the sea will shout with joy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Therefore in the east glorify Yahweh

The phrase "in the east" represents the people living east of Israel. Isaiah is commanding these people as if they were there with him. But, he is talking to the people in the future after God devastates the earth. AT: "Therefore everyone from distant lands in the east will glorify 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-apostrophe/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pastforfuture/01.md]])

in the isles of the sea give glory

Isaiah is commanding the people who live on the islands in the Mediterranean sea as if they were there with him. But, he is talking to the people in the future after God devastates the earth. AT: "everyone in the islands will give glory" (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]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pastforfuture/01.md]])

to the name of Yahweh

Here "name" represents Yahweh. AT: "to Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 24:16

we have heard

Here "we" refers to Isaiah and the people of Israel. Isaiah is describing something in the future as if it has already happened. AT: "we will hear" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pastforfuture/01.md]])

I have wasted away, I have wasted away

Isaiah repeats this phrase to emphasize his anguish. He was very concerned because he saw people who deceived others and did not do what they promised to do. AT: "I have become very weak" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

The treacherous have dealt treacherously; yes, the treacherous have dealt very treacherously

Isaiah repeats this phrase to emphasize his anguish. AT: "Indeed, those who deceive are now deceiving others" or "Indeed, the deceivers have acted deceitfully" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 24:17-18

Terror, the pit, and the snare are upon you, inhabitants of the earth

"You people of the earth will experience terror, the pit, and the snare"

the pit, and the snare ... caught in the snare

Here "pit" and "snare" represent all the different bad things that will happen to people. People will run away to escape one bad thing but they will just experience another bad thing. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

the sound of terror

"the terrifying sound"

will be caught in the snare

This can be stated in active form. AT: "the snare will catch him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

The windows of the heavens will be opened

This speaks of large amounts of rain falling from the sky as if Yahweh opened a window in the sky and let the water pour through. AT: "The sky will split open and torrents of rain will fall" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the foundations of the earth will shake

The word "foundation" normally refers to a stone structure that gives support to a building from underneath. Here it describes a similar structure that was thought to support and hold the earth in place. Isaiah says even the structure that holds the earth will shake. AT: "the earth will shake terribly" or "there will be a terrible earthquake"

translationWords

Isaiah 24:19-20

The earth will be completely broken, the earth ripped apart; the earth will be violently shaken

These passive clauses can be stated in active form. AT: "The earth will break and split apart; the earth will shake violently" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

The earth will stagger like a drunken man and it will sway back and forth like a hut

These similes emphasize how the earth will shake back and forth. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Its sin will be heavy on it and it will fall and never rise again

This speaks of the earth as if it were a person and transgressions were a heavy object. The person tries to carry the heavy weight but the weight causes the person to fall and not be able to stand back up. Here the earth represents the people of the earth who cause Yahweh to destroy the earth because of their sins. AT: "The sins of the people are many and so Yahweh will destroy the earth, and the earth will be like a person who falls and cannot get back up" (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]])

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/transgression.md]]

Isaiah 24:21-23

On that day

"At that time"

the host of the heaven

A host is an army. Here "the host of the heaven" refers to the many powerful spirits in the heavens. It can be stated clearly that they are evil. AT: "the powerful beings" or "the evil spiritual beings" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

in the heavens

"in the sky"

They will be gathered together, prisoners in a pit, and will be shut up in a prison

Here "pit" refers to a dark room or hole in a prison. This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will gather them together as his prisoners and lock them in the dungeon of a prison" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

they will be punished

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will punish them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Then the moon will be ashamed, and the sun disgraced

The sun and the moon are described as a person who is ashamed of being in front of someone with greater power. In the presence of Yahweh, the light of the moon and sun will seem less bright. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 25

Isaiah 25:intro-0

Isaiah 25 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

This chapter shifts from being a prophecy against the nations to the personal praises of Isaiah. He praises Yahweh for the deliverance of his people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/peopleofgod.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Reign of the Messiah

Isaiah 25:1-3

praise your name

Here "name" represents Yahweh. AT: "praise you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

things planned long ago

This can be stated in active form. AT: "things you planned long ago" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

in perfect faithfulness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be stated as "faithful." AT: "because you are perfectly faithful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the city

This is not referring to a certain city. It means cities in general. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

a fortress of strangers

"a fortress belonging to foreigners"

a city of ruthless nations

Here "city" and "nations" represent the people who live there. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 25:4-5

you have been a place of safety ... a shelter ... a shelter from the storm ... a shade from the heat

Yahweh protecting his people is spoken of as if he were a place that the people could go to be safe and comforted. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

When the breath of the ruthless was like a storm against a wall

Ruthless people oppressing the people of God is spoken of as if they were a storm beating against a wall. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

When the breath

"When the wind" or "When the blast"

the ruthless

This is a nominal adjective. AT: "ruthless people" or "those who are ruthless" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

like heat in a dry land

This compares the enemies of God's people to the heat that dries up the land. This emphasizes how much the enemies cause the people of God to suffer. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

as the heat is subdued ... ruthless ones is answered

Yahweh stopping ruthless people from singing and boasting is compared to a cloud providing shade on a hot day. This emphasizes that Yahweh comforts his people by stopping those who cause them to suffer. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

as the heat is subdued by the shade of a cloud

This can be stated in active form. AT: "just like when a cloud passes overhead and subdues the heat" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the song of the ruthless ones is answered

This can be stated in active form. AT: "you will stop the ruthless people from singing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/refuge.md]]

Isaiah 25:6-8

On this mountain

This refers to Jerusalem or Mount Zion.

Yahweh of hosts

See how you translated this in Isaiah 1:9.

a feast of fat things

Here "fat things" means the best food.

a feast on the lees

"the oldest wine." This means the best wine.

the covering over all peoples, the web woven over all the nations

Death, suffering, and sadness are spoken of as if they were a dark cloud or web that covers everyone on the earth. (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]])

He will swallow up death forever

Yahweh causing people to live forever is spoken of as if he would swallow death. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the disgrace of his people he will take away from all the earth

Yahweh causing the people to never be ashamed again is spoken of as if disgrace were an object that Yahweh would take away. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 25:9-10

It will be said

This can be stated in active form. AT: "People will say" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

on that day

"at that time"

For on this mountain the hand of Yahweh will rest

The "hand" represents God's power. For Yahweh's hand to rest on "this mountain" means he will protect his people AT: "The power of Yahweh will be on this mountain" or "For on Mount Zion Yahweh will protect his people" (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]])

Moab will be trampled down in his place, even as straw is trampled down in a pit filled with manure

Yahweh destroying the people of Moab is spoken of as if he would step on them and crush them. This is compared to how people trampled on straw to mix it with manure. (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-simile/01.md]])

Moab will be trampled down in his place

Here Moab represents the people of Moab. This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will trample the people in the land of Moab" (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 25:11-12

They will spread their hands ... his hands to swim

This simile emphasizes how badly Yahweh will humiliate the people of Moab. They will spread their hands in dung like a swimmer spreads his hands in water. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

They will spread their hands in the midst of it

"The people of Moab will push their hands through the dung"

as a swimmer spreads his hands to swim

"as if they were swimming"

will bring down their pride

Yahweh humiliating a proud person is spoken of as if pride were something high and Yahweh would cause it to be low. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in spite of the skill of their hands

Here "hands" represents the power to do or make something. AT: "in spite of the great things they have built" or "in spite of the great things they have done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Your high fortress walls he will bring down to the ground, to the dust

This speaks of Yahweh causing armies to bring down the walls as if he himself were going to bring them down. AT: "He will send an army to bring your high fortress walls to the ground, to the dust" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Your high fortress

Here "Your" refers to the people of Moab. It can be stated in third person to be consistent with the previous verse. AT: "Their high fortress" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 26

Isaiah 26:intro-0

Isaiah 26 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# "That day"

This is a common phrase in this section of Isaiah. This chapter appears to prophesy about a time of restoration when the messiah will reign. This chapter pictures a time of great peace and harmony in the world. The translator should not add explanation, but should try to maintain the tense of the original text, as a future or uncompleted action. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/restore.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/fulfill.md]])

Isaiah 26:1-2

In that day

"At that time"

this song will be sung in the land of Judah

This can be stated in active form. AT: "the people in the land of Judah will sing this song" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

We have a strong city

This refers to the city of Jerusalem.

God has made salvation its walls and ramparts

God's power to protect and save his people is spoken of as if his salvation were walls around a city. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the righteous nation that keeps faith

Here "nation" represents the people. AT: "the righteous and faithful people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 26:3-4

The mind that is stayed on you

Here "mind" represents a person's thoughts. Also "you" refers to Yahweh. The phrase "stayed on you" is an idiom. AT: "The person who continually thinks about you" (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]])

Yah, Yahweh

Yah is another name for Yahweh.

Yahweh, is an everlasting rock

Yahweh having the power to protect his people is spoken of as if he were a tall rock where people could go to escape from their enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 26:5-6

he will bring down those who live proudly

Yahweh humiliating those who are proud is spoken of as if proud people were up high and he would cause them to come down low. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the fortified city

This means fortified cities in general not a specific city. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

he will lay low ... he will level

Yahweh causing an army to destroy fortified cities is spoken of as if Yahweh would do it himself. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

It will be trampled down by the feet of the poor and the treading of the needy

Both statements mean the same thing. This can be stated in active form. AT: "The poor and oppressed people will trample on the ruins of the city" (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-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 26:7-9

The path of the righteous is level ... the path of the righteous you make straight

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. People obeying Yahweh is spoken of as if they were walking on his path. Yahweh ensuring the people that what they do is right is spoken of as if he were making the path level and straight for them. (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-metaphor/01.md]])

in the path of your judgments, Yahweh, we wait for you

Doing what Yahweh judged to be right is spoken of walking on his path. AT: "we wait for you, Yahweh, as we continue to do what you judged to be right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

of your judgments

"of your laws" or "of your teachings"

we wait

Here "we" refers to Isaiah and all righteous people who are speaking to Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

your name and your reputation are our desire

Here "name" and "reputation" represent Yahweh's character which represents Yahweh himself. AT: "our only desire is to honor you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

my spirit within me seeks you earnestly

Wanting to know Yahweh and his laws better is spoken of as if the person were seeking to find Yahweh. AT: "I earnestly want to know you better" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my spirit within me seeks you earnestly

Here "spirit" represents the speaker as a whole. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 26:10

Let favor be shown to the wicked one, but he will not learn righteousness

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Even if Yahweh is kind to wicked people, they still do not learn to do what is right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the wicked one

This means wicked people in general. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

In the land of uprightness

Here "land" represents the people who live there. AT: "In the land where the people do what is right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

does not see the majesty of Yahweh

Here "see" represents realizing something. AT: "does not realize that Yahweh is great" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 26:11-12

your hand is lifted up

Yahweh preparing to punish wicked people is spoken of as if his hand were raised and about to hit the wicked people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

but they do not notice

"but the wicked people do not notice"

they will see your zeal for the people

Here "see" represents realizing something. AT: "they will realize that you are eager to bless your people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

be put to shame

This can be stated in active form. AT: "they will be ashamed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

fire of your adversaries will devour them

Yahweh punishing and completely destroying his adversaries is spoken of as if he would send a fire that will completely burn them up. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

fire of your adversaries

Here "of" does not mean the fire belongs to the adversaries but that the fire is intended to be used against the adversaries. AT: "your fire will completely burn them up"

for us

Here "us" refers to Isaiah and includes all the righteous people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 26:13-14

but we praise your name alone

Here "name" represents the person of God. AT: "but we praise you alone" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

they will not arise

"they will not come back to life"

made every memory of them to perish

Yahweh causing people to no longer remember those he destroyed is spoken of as if Yahweh made their memory perish or die. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 26:15

You have increased the nation, Yahweh, you have increased the nation

This clause is repeated for emphasis. Here "nation" represents the people. AT: "You have greatly increased the number of people in our nation" (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 26:16-17

they looked to you

Here "they" refers to the people of Israel. This would include Isaiah. AT: "we looked to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

looked to you

This idiom means they asked Yahweh for help. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

when your discipline was on them

The abstract noun "discipline" can be stated as a verb. AT: "when you disciplined them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

As a pregnant woman ... cries out in her labor pains

This compares the people to a woman giving birth. This emphasizes their suffering and crying when Yahweh disciplined them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 26:18

General Information:

Isaiah continues to compare the suffering of the people of Judah to a woman giving birth. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

but it is as if we have only given birth to wind

"but it is as if we have only given birth to air" or "it is like we gave birth to nothing." This is a simile that emphasizes that the people's suffering resulted in nothing. AT: "but nothing good resulted from it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

We have not brought salvation to the earth, and the inhabitants of the world have not fallen

Here "earth" represents the people who live on the earth. The meaning is unclear, but it seems to mean that the people of Israel have not been able to save themselves or other people by defeating their enemy in battle. (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]])

We have not brought salvation to the earth

This can be reworded so that the abstract noun "salvation" is expressed as the verb "save." AT: "We have not saved the inhabitants of the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

and the inhabitants of the world have not fallen

"nor have we caused the wicked people of the world to fall in battle"

translationWords

Isaiah 26:19

Your dead will live

This can be reworded so that the nominal adjective "dead" is expressed as the verb "have died." AT: "Your people who have died will live again" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

Your dead

Possible meanings are 1) "Your" refers to Yahweh or 2) "Your" refers to the people of Israel. If you choose option two you could translate it as "Our dead."

Awake

This speaks of dead people coming back to life as if they were waking up from sleep. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you who live in the dust

This is a polite way of referring to those who have died. AT: "those who are dead and buried" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

for your dew is the dew of light

Yahweh acting kindly towards his people and bringing them back to life is spoken of as if it were the dew that causes the plants to live. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

for your dew

Possible meanings are 1) "your" refers to Yahweh and this is the dew that Yahweh gives or 2) "your" refers to the people of Israel and this is the dew they receive from Yahweh.

dew of light

Possible meanings are 1) "light" refers to Yahweh's power to make dead people alive again. AT: "dew from Yahweh" or 2) "light" refers to the morning time when dew is on the plants. AT: "dew in the morning"

the earth will bring forth its dead

"the earth will give birth to those who died." Yahweh causing dead people to come back to life is spoken of as if the earth would give birth to those who have died. AT: "and Yahweh will cause those who have died to rise from the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 26:20-21

my people

Here "my" refers to Isaiah. Also "people" refers to the people of Israel.

until the indignation has passed by

Translate the abstract noun "indignation" as the adjective "angry." AT: "until Yahweh is no longer angry with us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the earth will uncover her bloodshed, and will no longer conceal her slain

Yahweh revealing all murders that have happened on the earth so that he can punish the murderers is spoken of as if the earth itself will reveal everyone who has been murdered. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 27

Isaiah 27:intro-0

Isaiah 27 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Leviathan

This was an ancient type of dragon or serpent. It is possible that this is a reference to Satan, who is also described as a serpent and a dragon. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/satan.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# "That day"

Isaiah 27:1-3

On that day

"At that time"

Yahweh with his hard, great and fierce sword will punish

Yahweh having the power to destroy his enemies is spoken of as if he had strong, large sword. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the monster that is in the sea

This refers to Leviathan.

A vineyard of wine, sing of it

"Sing about the vineyard of wine." This speaks about the people of Israel as if they were a vineyard that produced fruit. AT: "Sing about the people of Israel as if they were a vineyard that produced grapes for wine" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I, Yahweh, am its protector

"I, Yahweh, protect the vineyard"

night and day

The words "night" and "day" are combined here to mean "all the time." AT: "all the time" or "continually" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 27:4-5

Connecting Statement:

This continues to speak about the people of Israel as if they were a vineyard (See: Isaiah 27:2-3).

I am not angry, Oh, that there were briers and thorns! In battle I would march against them

"I am not angry. If there were briers and thorns I would march against them in battle"

I am not angry

It is understood that Yahweh is not angry with his people any longer. AT: "I am not angry with my people any longer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

that there were briers and thorns

The enemies of the people of Israel are spoken of as if they were briers and thorns growing in the vineyard. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

briers and thorns

See how you translated this phrase in Isaiah 5:6.

In battle I would march against them

Yahweh fighting his enemies is spoken of as if he were a warrior in an army. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I would march against them; I would burn them all together

Here Isaiah combines different images to speak of Yahweh's enemies. He speaks of them as if they are briers and thorns but also as soldiers in an army. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

unless they grasp my protection

This can be reworded so that the abstract noun "protection" is expressed as the verb "protect." AT: "unless they ask me to protect them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

make peace with me; let them make peace with me

"they ask to live peacefully with me; I want them to live peacefully with me"

translationWords

Isaiah 27:6

General Information:

Isaiah is speaking. He continues to describe the people of Israel as a vineyard. (See: Isaiah 27:2)

In the coming day

This speaks about a day as if it travels and arrives somewhere. AT: "In the future" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Jacob will take root; Israel will blossom and bud

Yahweh blessing the people of Israel and causing them to prosper is spoken of as if they were a vine that grows roots and blossoms. AT: "the descendants of Israel will prosper like a vine that has taken root and blossomed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Jacob ... Israel

Here "Jacob" and "Israel" are metonyms that represent the descendants of Jacob. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

they will fill the surface of the ground with fruit

Yahweh causing the people of Israel to prosper greatly so that they can help other people is spoken of as if they were a vine that grows so much fruit that it would cover the earth. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 27:7-8

Has Yahweh attacked Jacob and Israel as he attacked those nations who attacked them?

The question is used to contrast the severity of God's punishment. AT: "Yahweh has certainly punished the enemy nations more severely than he punished the people of Israel." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Jacob ... Israel

These represent the descendants of Jacob. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Have Jacob and Israel been killed as in the slaughter of those nations that were killed by them?

This question too is used to contrast the severity of God's punishment. This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh has not killed the people of Israel like they killed their enemies from other nations." (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-rquestion/01.md]])

In exact measure you have contended

Here "you" refers to God. Yahweh punishing his people as much as they needed is spoken of as if God's punishment were something that could be measured. AT: "But you did punish them as much as was needed" (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/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

sending Jacob and Israel away

This represents the descendants of Jacob. AT: "sending the Israelites away" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

he drove them away with his fierce breath in the day of the east wind

Yahweh's power to send his people away to a foreign country is spoken of as if Yahweh used his breath to blow them to a foreign country. AT: "the power of Yahweh drove them out like a fierce wind from the east" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 27:9

So in this way

Possible meanings are 1) "this" refers to Yahweh sending the people into exile as Isaiah mentioned in the previous verse or 2) "this" refers to the actions that Isaiah will mention in the next part of verse 9.

the iniquity of Jacob will be atoned for

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will purge the sin from the Israelites" or "Yahweh will forgive the sins of the Israelites" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

iniquity of Jacob ... removal of his sin

Here "Jacob" represents the descendants of Jacob. AT: "iniquity of the Israelites ... removal of their sins" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

for this will be

Here "this" refers to the actions that Isaiah will describe in the next part of verse 9.

the full fruit

This speaks of the results of an action as if it were the fruit that grows as on a tree or vine. AT: "the result" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he will make all the altar stones as chalk and crushed to pieces, and no Asherah poles or incense altars will remain standing

Here "he" refers to Jacob who represents his descendants. AT: "They will completely destroy all the altars on which they sacrifice to false gods, and they will remove all the Asherah idols and the altars on which they burn incense to false gods" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 27:10-11

For the fortified city is ... consumes its branches

Here Isaiah describes an event that will happen in the future as if it already happened. This emphasizes that it certainly will happen. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pastforfuture/01.md]])

For the fortified city is desolate, the habitation is deserted and forsaken like the wilderness

This can be stated in active form. AT: "The cities that were strong and had many people living in them will become empty like a desert" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the fortified city ... the habitation

This does not refer to a specific city or habitation but to cities and habitations in general. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

a calf feeds, and there he lies down and consumes

Here "calf" represents calves or cattle in general. AT: "calves feed, and there they lie down and consume" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

When the boughs ... not a people of understanding

The people becoming so weak because they disobey Yahweh so that enemies can easily destroy them is spoken of as if they are dry branches that women break off of a tree. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

When the boughs are withered, they will be broken off. Women will come and make fires with them

This can be stated in active form. AT: "When the branches wither, women will come and break them off and make fires with them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

this is not a people of understanding

This can be made more explicit. AT: "this is not a people who understands Yahweh or his law" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

a people

Possible meanings are 1) "people" refers to the people of Israel or 2) "people" refers the people of foreign nations who oppress the people of Israel.

Therefore their Maker will not have compassion on them, and he who made them will not be merciful to them

Both clauses mean the same thing. AT: "Because they do not understand, Yahweh, the one who made them, will not be merciful to them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 27:12-13

It will come about

This phrase marks an important event that will happen.

on that day

"at that time"

Yahweh will thresh

Yahweh gathering his people to bring them back from the foreign nations to the land of Israel is spoken of as if he were threshing wheat to separate the grain from the chaff. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

from the Euphrates River to the Wadi of Egypt

Isaiah mentions the Euphrates River and the Wadi of Egypt to mean that Yahweh will bring back the people of Israel who were exiled in lands near those waters, that is, Assyria and Egypt. The Euphrates River is northeast of Israel, and the Wadi of Egypt is southwest of Israel.

the Wadi of Egypt

"the brook of Egypt"

you ... will be gathered together one by one

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will gather you together one by one" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

a great trumpet will be blown

This can be stated in active form. AT: "someone will blow a trumpet loudly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the perishing ones in the land of Assyria will come, and the outcasts in the land of Egypt

The understood information can be stated clearly. AT: "those who are in exile and dying in the land of Assyria and the land of Egypt will return to the land of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

holy mountain

The "holy mountain" is Mount Zion, in Jerusalem. See how you translated this in Isaiah 11:9.

translationWords

Isaiah 28

Isaiah 28:intro-0

Isaiah 28 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Metaphors

There are many metaphors used to describe Yahweh's punishment as well as the sin of the people of Ephraim. In one such metaphor, they are described as being drunk. Construction and weather metaphors are also used in this chapter. (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/sin.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# "That day"

This is a common phrase in this section of Isaiah. This chapter appears to prophesy about a time of restoration when the messiah will reign. This chapter pictures a time of great peace and harmony in the world. The translator does not need to add an explanation, but should try to maintain the tense of the original text, as a future or uncompleted action. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/restore.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/fulfill.md]])

Isaiah 28:1-2

Woe to the proud garland ... on the head of the lush Valley of those who are overcome with wine

A "garland" is a crown made of flowers. Here it represents the city of Samaria, the capital of Israel, which sits above a fertile valley. Samaria and its people being destroyed is spoken of as if the flowers in the garland will grow old and stop being beautiful. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Behold

"Listen" or "Pay attention"

who are overcome with wine

"who are drunk with wine"

the Lord sends one who is mighty and strong

Here "one" refers to a mighty king who also represents his powerful army. AT: "the Lord sends a king with his powerful army" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

storm of hail

A "storm of hail" or hailstorm happens when hard pieces of ice fall from the sky. Here it is a simile that refers to the enemy army that Yahweh will send to destroy the people of Samaria. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

he will throw each garland crown down to the ground

The king and his powerful army destroying the people of Samaria and their city is spoken of as if the king will throw the people's garlands onto the ground. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 28:3-4

General Information:

Isaiah continues to speak about the people and the city of Samaria as if they were a garland. (See: Isaiah 28:1-2)

The proud garland of the drunkards of Ephraim will be trodden underfoot

This can be stated in active form. AT: "The enemy army will crush the proud drunkards of Samaria as if they were crushing flowers under their feet" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

proud garland ... of Ephraim ... that is on the head of the rich valley

A "garland" is a crown made of flowers. Here it represents the city of Samaria, the capital of Israel, which sits above a fertile valley. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

will be as the first ripe fig ... gulps it down

This speaks of the enemy soldiers seeing the beauty of Samaria and quickly plundering it as if they were a person who sees the first fig of the season and quickly eats it. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 28:5-6

Yahweh of hosts

See how you translated this in Isaiah 1:9.

will become a beautiful crown and a diadem of beauty

Yahweh is spoken of as if he were to become a beautiful crown that the people who honor him as their true king would wear. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

a beautiful crown and a diadem of beauty

These mean the same thing. AT: "a beautiful crown" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

people, a spirit of justice for him who sits in judgment, and strength for those who

This can be reworded so that the abstract nouns "justice" and "strength" are expressed as adjectives. AT: "people. Yahweh will cause the judges to be just and will cause to be strong those who" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

a spirit of justice

A person who has a "spirit of justice" is someone who has the characteristic of justice and is a just person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

sits in judgment

This idiom means the person has the authority to judge. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

strength for those who turn back their enemies at their gates

Here "to turn back" is an idiom that means to defeat in battle. AT: "Yahweh will cause the soldiers to be strong so that they defeat their enemies when the enemies attack their city" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 28:7-8

But even these

"But even the leaders"

The priest and the prophet

This does not mean a specific priest or prophet. It refers to priests and prophets in general. AT: "The priests and the prophets" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

reel with wine, and stagger with strong drink

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize that the priests and the prophets cannot do their job because they are very drunk. AT: "stumble around because they are drunk" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

they are swallowed up by wine

Their drinking so much that they can no longer think properly is spoken of as if the wine swallowed them. This can be stated in active form. AT: "the wine is causing them to be confused" (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]])

Grain is ground for bread but not too finely

This can be stated in active form. AT: "The farmer grinds the grain for bread but not so that it is too small" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 28:29

This too comes ... excellent in wisdom

This concludes the parable started in Isaiah 28:23. The implied lesson of the parable is that farmers are wise enough to listen to Yahweh's instructions about planting and threshing. But the leaders of Jerusalem are foolish for not listening to Yahweh's instructions that he is speaking through Isaiah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Yahweh of hosts

See how you translated this in Isaiah 1:9.

translationWords

Isaiah 29

Isaiah 29:intro-0

Isaiah 29 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

This chapter begins a series of "woes" against specific nations. It presents judgments against the kingdoms of Ephraim and eventually Judah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/woe.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/judge.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Ariel

This is another name for Jerusalem. It is an uncommon name.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# Prophecies

This chapter appears to prophesy about a time of restoration when the messiah will reign. It pictures a time of great peace and harmony in the world. The translator does not need to add an explanation, but should try to maintain the tense of the original text, as a future or uncompleted action. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/restore.md]], [[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/fulfill.md]])

Isaiah 29:1-2

Woe to Ariel

Here "Ariel" represents the people who live in the city of Ariel. AT: "How terrible it will be for the people of Ariel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Ariel

This is another name for Jerusalem, and it means "altar." If possible translate this as "Ariel" rather than "Jerusalem" since the meaning of "Ariel" is important in 29:2. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

David encamped

"David dwelled" or "David lived"

Add year to year; let the festivals come round

"Keep celebrating your festival year after year." This is an ironic statement. Yahweh tells the people to keep celebrating their festivals where they sacrifice to him, but he knows it will not prevent him from destroying them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-irony/01.md]])

But I will besiege

The word "I" refers to Yahweh. This represents Yahweh causing an enemy army to besiege Jerusalem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

she will

Here "she" refers to Ariel, which represents the people of Ariel. AT: "the people of Ariel will" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

mourning and lamenting

The words "mourning" and "lamenting" mean basically the same thing and emphasize the intensity of mourning. AT: "they will mourn deeply" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

like Ariel

Translators may add a footnote that says, "The name Ariel means 'altar.'" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 29:3-4

I will encamp against you

The word "I" refers to Yahweh. This represents Yahweh causing an enemy army to surround Jerusalem. AT: "I will command the army of your enemies to surround you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

palisade ... siege works

A "palisade" is a tower armies would build to attack cities with high walls. Also "siege works" refers to other various weapons armies would build to attack cities. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

You will be brought down

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Your enemy will bring you down" or "Your enemy will humble you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

will speak from the ground; your speech will be low from the dust. Your voice will sound like a spirit that speaks from the ground, and out of the dust your speech will whisper

All of these statements mean basically the same thing. They emphasize that the people who once spoke with proud words will be weak and grieving after the enemy defeats them. AT: "you will only be able to speak with weak whispers like a spirit speaking from where dead people dwell" (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/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 29:5-6

The great number of your invaders will become like fine dust, and the multitude of the ruthless ones as chaff that passes away

This emphasizes how weak and insignificant the invading army is before God. AT: "Yahweh will easily remove the horde of your invaders and the multitude of the ruthless ones"(See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

great number of your invaders

"many soldiers that will attack you"

the ruthless ones as chaff

The translator can supply the verb "will become." AT: "the soldiers who show you no mercy will become as chaff" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Yahweh of hosts will come to you

The word "you" refers to the people of Jerusalem. Possible meanings are 1) "Yahweh of hosts will come to help you" or 2) "Yahweh of hosts will come to punish you." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 29:7-8

It will be like a dream, a vision of the night

The phrase "a vision of the night" is the same thing as "a dream." The two phrases emphasize that soon it will be like the invading army was never there. (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-simile/01.md]])

A horde of all the nations

"Large armies from all the nations"

fight against Ariel

The name "Ariel" is another name for Jerusalem, and it represents the people who live there. See how you translated "Ariel" in Isaiah 29:1. AT: "fight against the people of Ariel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

her stronghold. They will attack her and her fortifications to press upon her

The word "her" refers to Ariel which represents the people who live there. AT: "their stronghold. They will attack the city of Ariel and its defenses and cause the people to be in great distress" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

It will be like when a hungry man dreams he is eating ... his thirst not quenched

These similes mean that the enemy will expect victory but they will fail because God will not allow them to conquer Jerusalem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Yes, so will be the great number of nations that fights against Mount Zion

Here "Mount Zion" represents the people who live there. AT: "Yes, this will be what happens to the armies from the nations who fight against the people who live on Mount Zion" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 29:9-10

Astonish yourselves and be astonished

The word "yourselves" refers to the people of Jerusalem. Why they are astonished can be made explicit. AT: "Be astonished at what I am telling you" (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-doublet/01.md]])

blind yourselves and be blind

The people ignoring what Yahweh says is spoken of as if they would make themselves blind. AT: "keep being ignorant and spiritually blind to what I am showing you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Be drunk, but not with wine; stagger, but not with beer

The people being senseless and not understanding what Yahweh is doing is spoken of as if they were drunk. AT: "Be senseless like a drunk person, but it is not because you have drank too much wine or beer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

For Yahweh has poured out on you the spirit of deep sleep

Here "the spirit of" means "to have the characteristic of" being asleep. Yahweh causing the people to be asleep is spoken of as if "the spirit" were a liquid that he poured out on the people. Also "deep sleep" is a metaphor that means the people are senseless and cannot understand what Yahweh is doing. AT: "The reason you are senseless is because Yahweh has caused you to be spiritually asleep" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

He has closed your eyes, the prophets, and has covered your heads, the seers

Yahweh causing the people to be senseless and not to understand what he is doing is spoken of as if he closed their eyes and covered their heads so they could not see. AT: "It is as though Yahweh has closed the eyes of the prophets and covered the heads of the seers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 29:11-12

All revelation has become to you as the words of a book that is sealed

The other prophets in Jerusalem are unable to hear or understand God's message. AT: "All that Yahweh has revealed is to you like a sealed book" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

is sealed, which men might give to one who is learned

This can be stated as a new sentence. AT: "is sealed. A person may take the sealed book to someone who can read"

If the book is given to one who cannot read

This can be stated in active form. AT: "If a person takes the book to someone who cannot read" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 29:13-14

This people comes close to me with their mouths and honors me with their lips

The words "mouths" and "lips" represent what people say. Here it also represents saying something but not truly meaning it. AT: "The people of Jerusalem pretend to worship me and honor me with what they say" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

but their heart is far from me

Here "heart" is a metonym that represents a person's thoughts and emotions. The people not being truly devoted to Yahweh is spoken of as if their hearts were far away from him. AT: "but they do not honor me in their thoughts" or "but they are not truly devoted to me" (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]])

Their honor for me is only a commandment of men that has been taught

This can be stated in active form. AT: "They honor me only because that is what people tell them to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Therefore, see, I will proceed to do a marvelous thing among this people, wonder after wonder

"Therefore, look and see! I am going to do wonderful and marvelous things among you that you will not be able to explain"

The wisdom of their wise men will perish, and the understanding of their prudent men will disappear

Both of these statements mean the same thing. Yahweh showing that the wise people cannot understand or explain what Yahweh does is spoken of as if their wisdom and understanding will vanish. (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-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 29:15

General Information:

This may be Isaiah speaking or it may continue Yahweh's speech in 29:13-14.

who deeply hide their plans from Yahweh

People trying to make plans without Yahweh knowing about it is spoken of as if they hide their plans in a deep place where Yahweh cannot see. AT: "who try to hide their plans from Yahweh" or "who try to keep Yahweh from finding out what they are planning to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

whose deeds are in darkness

It is implied that they are secretly doing evil things. AT: "who do evil things in the dark so no one can see them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Who sees us, and who knows us?

They use a question to emphasize that they believe no one knows what they are doing. AT: "No one, not even Yahweh, sees us or knows what we are doing!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 29:16

You turn things upside down

This is an idiom that means to distort what is true. AT: "You make things opposite of the way they should be" or "You distort the truth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Should the potter be considered like clay, so that the thing that is made should say about him who made it ... "He does not understand"?

Yahweh who created humans is spoken of as if he were a potter and humans were the clay. This metaphor emphasizes that it is foolish for humans to reject or criticize the one who created them. AT: "Should you consider me, your maker, to be like the clay rather than the potter? It is as if a potter created something, and that thing said about the potter, 'He did not make me,' or 'He does not understand.'" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Should the potter be considered like clay ... "He does not understand"?

This question is used to scold the people of Jerusalem. AT: "Obviously, the potter should not be considered like clay ... 'He does not understand.'" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Isaiah 29:17-19

Lebanon will be turned into a field, and the field will become a forest

Possible meanings are 1) this is literal and Yahweh will cause the places where trees grew wild in Lebanon to become fruitful fields or 2) this is a metaphor and the large forests of Lebanon represent powerful oppressors, and the crops that grow in the field and become a forest are the common people who are suffering. This means Yahweh will humble those who are powerful, but he will honor those who are suffering. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Lebanon will be turned into a field

Here "Lebanon" represents the large cedar forests in Lebanon. This can be stated in active form. AT: "God will turn the mighty forests of Lebanon into a field" (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 deaf will hear the words of a book, and the eyes of the blind will see out of the deep darkness

Possible meanings are 1) this is literal and Yahweh will cause deaf people to hear and blind people to see or 2) this is a metaphor that means Yahweh will enable the people to hear and understand his message or 3) it may mean both options 1 and 2. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the eyes of the blind

Here "eyes" represents the whole person. AT: "those who are blind" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

The oppressed will again rejoice in Yahweh, and the poor among men will rejoice in the Holy One of Israel

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. AT: "The poor and oppressed people will again be happy because of what Yahweh, the Holy One of Israel, has done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 29:20-21

For the ruthless will cease

The nominal adjective "the ruthless" can be stated as an adjective. AT: "For the ruthless people will cease" or "For there will no longer be cruel people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

the scoffer will vanish

The nominal adjective "the scoffer" can be stated as a verb. AT: "those who scoff will vanish" or "the people who mock will disappear" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

All those who love to do evil will be eliminated

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will eliminate all those who love to do evil" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

who by a word make a man out to be an offender

This refers to giving testimony in court against someone. AT: "who testify against a man and make him out to be an offender" or "who say in court that an innocent man is guilty of doing something wrong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

They lay a snare for him who seeks justice at the gate and put the righteous down with empty lies

The evil people doing anything they can to stop a good person is spoken of as if the evil people set a trap like a hunter catching his prey. AT: "They lie and try to stop those who want to do what is fair and right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

who seeks justice at the gate

The city gate was often the place where the city leaders made official decisions.

translationWords

Isaiah 29:22-24

the house of Jacob

Here "house" represents a family. AT: "the descendants of Jacob" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

who redeemed Abraham

This possibly refers to when Yahweh called Abraham from his home country and sent him to the promised land. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Jacob will no longer ... his face ... he sees his children

Here "Jacob" represents his descendants. AT: "Jacob's descendants will no longer ... their faces ... they see their children" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

nor will his face be pale

This is an idiom that means they will no longer be afraid. AT: "nor will they be afraid" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

But when he sees his children, the work of my hands

Here "hands" represents Yahweh's power and action. AT: "When they see all the children I have given them and all that I have done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

they will make my name holy

Here "name" represents Yahweh. AT: "they will honor me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

They will make holy the name of the Holy One of Jacob

Here "name" represents Yahweh. Yahweh refers to himself as "the Holy One of Jacob." AT: "They will honor me, the Holy One of Jacob" (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-123person/01.md]])

of the God of Israel

Yahweh refers to himself as "the God of Israel." AT: "of me, the God of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

Those who err in spirit

Here "spirit" represents a person's inner being. AT: "Those who are wrong in what they think" or "Those who are wrong in their attitude" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

will gain understanding

This can be made more explicit to explain what they will understand. AT: "will begin to understand Yahweh and his laws" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

complainers will learn knowledge

This can be made more explicit to explain what knowledge they will learn. AT: "those who complain will begin to know that what Yahweh teaches them is true" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 30

Isaiah 30:intro-0

Isaiah 30 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

This chapter continues the series of "woes" against specific nations. It presents judgments against the people of Ephraim and Judah when they desired to make an alliance with Egypt. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/woe.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/judge.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

== Negev== This is an area between Egypt and Judah. The people would have had to travel though it in order to get to Egypt. No one really lived in this area and it was known to be very dangerous.

# Trust

The people were to trust in Yahweh. Only he could provide them with protection. The people were punished for their lack of trust when they were in trouble, but Yahweh only required that they trust him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# "That day"

This is a common phrase in this section of Isaiah. The chapter appears to prophesy about a time of restoration when the messiah will reign. It pictures a time of great peace and harmony in the world. The translator does not need to add an explanation, but should try to maintain the tense of the original text, as a future or uncompleted action. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/restore.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/fulfill.md]])

Isaiah 30:1-2

the rebellious children

Yahweh speaks about his people as if they were his children. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

this is Yahweh's declaration

Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. AT: "this is what Yahweh has declared" or "this is what I, Yahweh, have declared" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

They make plans, but not from me

This can be reworded so that the abstract noun "plans" can be stated as the verb "plan." AT: "They plan to do things, but they do not ask me what I want them to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

but they were not directed by my Spirit

This can be stated in active form. AT: "but my Spirit did not direct them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

they add sin to sin

Continuing to sin is spoken of as if sins were objects that could be stacked on one another. AT: "they continue to sin more and more" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

They seek protection from Pharaoh

This can be reworded so that the abstract noun "protection" is expressed as the verb "protect." AT: "They ask Pharaoh to protect them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

take refuge in the shadow of Egypt

Egypt's protection from enemy armies is spoken of as if it were a shadow that protects someone from the burning heat of the sun. AT: "they rely on the Egyptians to keep them safe" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 30:3-5

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Judah.

Therefore Pharaoh's protection will be your shame, and the refuge in Egypt's shade, your humiliation

This can be reworded so that the abstract nouns "protection," "shame," and "humiliation" are expressed as adjectives or verbs. AT: "Therefore you will be ashamed because you relied on Pharaoh to protect you; you will be humiliated because you relied on the Egyptians to keep you safe" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the refuge in Egypt's shade

Egypt's protection from enemy armies is spoken of as if it were a shadow that protects someone from the burning heat of the sun. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

their princes

Here "princes" mean an official or ambassador, not necessarily sons of the king.

their ... They ... them

These words refer to the people of Judah.

Zoan ... Hanes

These were cities in the northern part of Egypt. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

have come to Hanes

Here "come" can be stated as "gone." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-go/01.md]])

because of a people

"because of the people of Egypt"

translationWords

Isaiah 30:6-7

General Information:

This continues God's declaration concerning the people of Judah.

A declaration

"This is what Yahweh declares"

of the lioness and the lion, the viper and fiery flying serpent

This refers to these types of animals in general. AT: "where lionesses and lions dwell, and where there are vipers and serpents" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

fiery flying serpent

Here the word "fiery" probably refers to the serpent's poisonous bite and the word "flying" refers to its quick movements. See how you translated this in Isaiah 14:29.

they carry their riches

"the people of Judah carry their riches"

I have called her Rahab, who sits still

There were popular stories about a sea monster named Rahab. The name Rahab means "strength" or "arrogance." AT: "I call Egypt a loud boaster who does nothing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 30:8-9

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Isaiah.

Now

This word is used here to mark a break in Yahweh's declaration about Judah. Here he tells Isaiah to do something.

in their presence

"in the presence of the people of Judah"

for the time to come

This speaks of time as if it travels and arrives somewhere. AT: "for a future time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

lying children, children who will not hear the instruction of Yahweh

This speaks of Yahweh's people as if they were his children. This can be translated as a new sentence. AT: "They behave like children who lie and do not listen to what Yahweh commands" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 30:10-11

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking about the people of Judah.

Turn aside from the way, stray off the path

How Yahweh wants his people to behave is spoken of as if it were a way or path on which to walk. To disobey Yahweh is spoken of as if the person strays away from Yahweh's path. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Holy One of Israel

See how you translated this name in Isaiah 1:4.

translationWords

Isaiah 30:12-13

Holy One of Israel

See how you translated this name in Isaiah 1:4.

you reject this word

"you reject this message"

trust in oppression and deceit and lean on it

Possible meanings are 1) the leaders of Judah are trusting in the Egyptian leaders who rule by oppressing and deceiving others or 2) the leaders of Judah have oppressed and deceived their own people in order to take their money and send it to the Egyptians leaders as payment for protection. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

lean on it

Here the word "it" refers to "oppression and deceit." AT: "lean on them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

lean on

This is an idiom that means to trust or rely on something. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

so this sin will be to you like a broken part ... in an instant

This simile means that God will destroy the people of Judah suddenly because of their sin. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

like a broken part ready to fall

It is understood that this is a broken part of a wall. AT: "like a broken part of a wall that is ready to fall" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

whose fall will happen suddenly

This can be reworded so that the abstract noun "fall" is expressed as the verb "fall." AT: "that will suddenly fall" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

suddenly, in an instant

These mean the same thing and emphasize how quickly the wall will fall. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 30:14

General Information:

Isaiah describes how Yahweh will destroy the people of Judah. (See: Isaiah 30:12-13)

He will break it

Here "it" refers to the part in the wall that is about to fall. The part in the wall is a metaphor that represents the people of Judah and their sin mentioned in Isaiah 30:12-13. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

as a potter's vessel is broken

This simile means that the piece of wall will break as quickly and completely as a clay jar that falls to the ground. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

potter

A potter is a person who makes pots and jars out of clay.

there will not be found

This can be stated in active form. AT: "no one will be able to find" or "there will not be" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

a shard with which to scrape

"a shard big enough to scrape"

fire from the hearth

The word "fire" here refers here to ashes. AT: "ashes from the fireplace" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Isaiah 30:15-16

Holy One of Israel

See how you translated this name in Isaiah 1:4.

In returning and resting you will be saved

Repenting is spoken of as if it were physically returning to Yahweh. This can be stated in active form. AT: "I will save you from your enemies if you will repent and rest knowing that I will take care of 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]])

resting

It is implied that the people rest because they trust that Yahweh will take care of them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

in quietness and in trust will be your strength

Quietness here refers to not being anxious and worried. It is implied that they are not worried because they trust in Yahweh. AT: "You will be strong if you are quiet and trust in me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

we will flee on horses

Apparently these are horses that the people of Judah received from the Egyptians. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 30:17

One thousand will flee at the threat of one; at the threat of five you will flee

The word "solider" is understood. AT: "One thousand soldiers will flee at the threat of one enemy soldier; at the threat of five enemy soldiers all of your soldiers will flee" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

One thousand

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

until your remnant will be like a flagstaff on the top of a mountain, or like a flag on a hill

This simile means there will be so few people left that they will be like a single flag on top of a hill. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/remnant.md]]

Isaiah 30:18-19

General Information:

Isaiah continues speaking to the people of Judah.

you will ... to you ... answer you

Here "you" refers to the people who will live in Zion.

he will answer you

"he will help you"

translationWords

Isaiah 30:20-21

General Information:

Isaiah continues speaking to the people of Judah.

the bread of adversity and the water of affliction

Here "bread" and "water" make up the diet of a very poor person. The whole phrase represents the hard times and poverty of the people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

your teacher

This refers to Yahweh.

you will see your teacher with your own eyes

Here "eyes" represents the whole person. AT: "you yourselves will see your teacher" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Your ears will hear

Here "ears" represents the whole person. AT: "You will hear" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

a word behind you saying

"him speaking behind you saying"

This is the way, walk in it

How Yahweh wants his people to behave is spoken of as if it were a way or path. To obey Yahweh is spoken of as if it were a person walking on his path. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left

Disobeying Yahweh is spoken of as if the person turned left or right off of Yahweh's path. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 30:22

General Information:

Isaiah continues speaking to the people of Judah.

You will throw them away like a menstrual rag

This simile means they will throw away their idols like they were garbage. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

You will say to them, "Get out of here."

This speaks of the idols as if they could hear and get up and leave a place. Yahweh means that the people will no longer need or want the idols. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 30:23-24

General Information:

Isaiah continues speaking to the people of Judah.

He will give

"Yahweh will give"

bread with abundance from the ground

Here "bread" represents food in general. AT: "he will cause the ground to produce plenty of food for you to eat" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

In that day

"At that time"

that has been winnowed with a shovel and a fork

Shovels and forks were used to throw the grain in the air so the wind would blow away the chaff, leaving only the part that could be eaten. This can be stated in active form. AT: "that you have winnowed with a shovel and a pitchfork" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 30:25-26

General Information:

Isaiah continues speaking to the people of Judah.

On every high mountain ... sunlight of seven days

Isaiah describes what will be an ideal situation after Yahweh rescues his people. Although the language may be exaggerated, you should translate this just as Isaiah described it.

in the day of the great slaughter when the towers fall

"when Yahweh slaughters your enemies and causes their strong towers to fall"

in the day

"at the time"

the light of the sun will be seven times brighter, like the sunlight of seven days

"the sun will shine as bright as seven suns" or "the sun will give as much light in one day as it normally does in seven days"

Yahweh will bind up the breaking of his people and heal the bruises of his wounding them

Yahweh comforting his people and causing their suffering to end is spoken of as if he would put bandages on their wounds. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 30:27-28

the name of Yahweh ... like a devouring fire

Yahweh being extremely angry is spoken of as if he were a large fire. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the name of Yahweh comes

Here "name" represents Yahweh. AT: "Yahweh comes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

His lips are full of fury, and his tongue is like a devouring fire

Here "lips" and "tongue" are metonyms that represent Yahweh speaking. And, Yahweh speaks with so much anger and power that it is spoken of as if his tongue were a fire. AT: "When he speaks his fury is like a fire that destroys everything" (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-simile/01.md]])

His breath is like an overflowing torrent

This compares the air coming out of Yahweh's mouth to a flood to emphasize its power to destroy. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

to sift the nations with the sieve of destruction

Yahweh separating the people of the nations and destroying the wicked people is spoken of as if Yahweh puts the nations in a sieve. This can be translated as a new sentence. AT: "Yahweh will separate and destroy the wicked people of the nations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

His breath is a bridle in the jaws of the peoples to cause them to wander away

Yahweh having the power to cause people's plans to fail or causing them to be destroyed is spoken of as if his breath were a bridle that steers people off the correct path. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

a bridle in the jaws of the peoples

A "bridle" is a device that people put over a horse's head to guide it. The bridle contains a small piece called a "bit" that goes in the horse's mouth. AT: "a bridle on the heads of the peoples" or "a bit in the jaws of the peoples" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 30:29

General Information:

Isaiah continues speaking to the people of Judah.

You will have a song

This can be reworded so the noun "song" is stated as a verb. AT: "You will sing"

as in the night when a holy feast is observed

This simile emphasizes how happy the people will be. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

when a holy feast is observed

This can be stated in active form. AT: "when you observe a holy feast" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

gladness of heart

Here "heart" represents a person's inner being. AT: "you will be glad" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

as when one goes ... Rock of Israel

This simile emphasizes how happy the people will be. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

to the Rock of Israel

Yahweh having the power to protect his people is spoken of as if he were a rock on which the people could climb and escape from enemies. AT: "to Israel's protective rock" or "which is like a protective rock for Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 30:30

show the motion of his arm

Here "arm" represents the power of God. It is implied that Yahweh will show his power by destroying his people's enemies. AT: "show that he is powerful by destroying your enemies" (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]])

in storming anger and flames of fire

Yahweh's anger is spoken of as if it were a storm or a fire. AT: "in anger that is like a storm and flames of fire" or "in great anger" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

with windstorm, rainstorm, and hailstones

"with storms full of wind, rain, and hail"

hailstones

hard pieces of ice that fall from the sky like rain

translationWords

Isaiah 30:31-32

For at the voice of Yahweh, Assyria will be shattered

This can be stated in active form. AT: "For when Yahweh speaks he will shatter the soldiers of Assyria" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Assyria will be shattered

Isaiah speaks of Assyria's fear as if Assyria is an object that Yahweh's voice shatters. AT: "Assyria will be terrified" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Assyria

Here this represents the soldiers of Assyria. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Every stroke of the appointed rod that Yahweh will lay on them

Yahweh causing an army to defeat the Assyrians is spoken of as if Yahweh would hit the Assyrians with a rod. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

will be accompanied

This can be stated in active form. AT: "the people of Judah will accompany it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

tambourines

This is a musical instrument with a head like a drum that can be hit and with pieces of metal around the side that sound when the instrument is shaken. See how you translated this in Isaiah 5:12.

he battles and fights with them

Yahweh causing the enemy army to defeat the Assyrians is spoken of as if Yahweh were a warrior who would fight along with the enemy army. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 30:33

For a place of burning was prepared long ago

This can be stated in active form. AT: "For long ago Yahweh prepared a place for burning" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

a place of burning

This phrase is the meaning of the word "Topheth." Topheth is a place in the Hinnom Valley, south of Jerusalem, where at one time people burned their children as sacrifices to a false god. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

it is prepared for the king

It is implied that this refers to the king of Assyria. This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh prepared it for the king of Assyria" (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]])

The pile is ready with a fire and much wood

"The pile is ready with much wood to make a fire"

The breath of Yahweh, like a stream of brimstone, will set it on fire

This speaks of Yahweh's breath as if it were a river of fire that will set the pile on fire. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 31

Isaiah 31:intro-0

Isaiah 31 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

This chapter continues the series of "woes" against specific nations. It presents judgments against the people of Ephraim and Judah when they desired to make an alliance with Egypt. It also prophesies the destruction of Assyria. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/woe.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/judge.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Trust

The people were to trust in Yahweh. Only he could provide them with protection. They were punished for their lack of trust when they were in trouble, but Yahweh only required that they trust him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# "That day"

This is a common phrase in this section of Isaiah. This chapter appears to prophesy about a time of restoration when the messiah will reign. It pictures a time of great peace and harmony in the world. The translator does not need to add an explanation, but should try to maintain the tense of the original text, as a future or uncompleted action. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/restore.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/fulfill.md]])

# Israel

The use of the term "Israel" in this chapter is in reference to the northern kingdom of Israel exclusively.

Isaiah 31:1-2

General Information:

Isaiah continues speaking to the people of Judah.

go down to Egypt

The phrase "go down" is used here because Egypt is lower in Elevation than Jerusalem.

those who go down

"those people of Judah who go down"

lean on horses

This speaks about people relying on their horses to help them as if they were leaning on their horses. AT: "rely on their horses" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Holy One of Israel

See how you translated this name in Isaiah 1:4.

nor do they seek Yahweh

"nor do they ask Yahweh to help them"

he will bring disaster

Here the word "bring" means to "cause." AT: "he will cause disasters to happen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

will not retract his words

The phrase "retract his words" speaks of a person not fulfilling what they said they will do as if the words that he had said were something that he could pull back to himself. Here it says that Yahweh will not do this, meaning he will fulfill what he has said. AT: "he will do what he said he would do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

arise against

"punish"

evil house

This refers to evil people who live there. AT: "all who do evil things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 31:3

Egypt is a man

Here Egypt refers to the soldiers of Egypt. AT: "The soldiers of Egypt are men" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

their horses flesh and not spirit

This means that their horses are only horses and not spiritual beings. AT: "their horses are only horses; they are not powerful spirits" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

When Yahweh reaches out with his hand

The term "hand" is often used in reference to God's power and action. AT: "When Yahweh uses his power against them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

both the one who helps will stumble, and the one who is helped will fall

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Stumbling and falling are metaphors of failing. This can be stated in active form. AT: "these two things will happen: I will destroy Egypt, who helps you, and I will destroy you, whom Egypt helps" (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]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

the one who is helped

This can be stated in active form. AT: "the one who is seeking help" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 31:4

General Information:

Yahweh speaks to Isaiah.

As a lion ... thus Yahweh of hosts

"A lion ... in the same way Yahweh of hosts." Here Yahweh speaks of how he will defend the people who belong to him and not be scared away by comparing himself to a lion who guards it's prey. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

thus Yahweh of hosts will descend ... that hill

It may be more clear if you move the last line to before the first line: "Yahweh of hosts will descend to fight on Mount Zion, on that hill, as a lion, even a young lion"

a lion, even a young lion

"a female lion or killer lion." This is a doublet with both phrase referring to a fierce lion. AT: "a lion" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

growls

warns others to stay away

when a group of shepherds is called out against it

The phrase "called out against it" means to be sent out to chase the lion away. This can be stated in active form. AT: "when someone sends shepherds to chase the lion away" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] or [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

from their sound

The shepherds would make loud noises to try and chase away the lion. AT: "from the loud noises that they make" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

will descend

"will come down." This refers to descending from heaven. AT: "will come down from heaven" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

on Mount Zion, on that hill

Both of the phrases refer to Mount Zion. AT: "on Mount Zion" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 31:5-7

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking.

Like birds in flight, so Yahweh of hosts will protect Jerusalem

Here the way that Yahweh protects Jerusalem is compared to the way that a mother bird protects her baby birds in their nest. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

he will protect and rescue as he passes over it and preserves it

This speaks of how Yahweh protects and rescues Jerusalem, describing him as a bird that flies over the city. AT: "he will protect and rescue the city from it's enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Yahweh of hosts

See how you translated this phrase in Isaiah 1:9.

Jerusalem

This refers to the people who live there. AT: "the people of Jerusalem" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Return to him from whom you have deeply turned away

"Return to the one against whom you have rebelled"

that your own hands have sinfully made

Here the people are referred to by their "hands" the emphasize that they made something with their hands. AT: "that you have sinned by making with you own hands" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 31:8-9

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Judah, referring to the Assyrians as though they are one person.

Assyria will fall by the sword; a sword not wielded by man will consume him

"Sword" refers to military might. This can be stated in active form. AT: "God's sword, and not a man's sword, will destroy the Assyrian army" (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]])

He will flee

"The Assyrians will flee"

They will lose all confidence because of terror

The word "confidence" can be expressed with the adjective "confident." The word "terror" can be expressed with the adjective "terrified." AT: "They will no longer be confident because they are so terrified" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

his young men will be forced to do hard labor

This can be stated in active form. AT: "enemies will capture their young men and force them to do hard labor" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

his princes

"their leaders"

at the sight of Yahweh's battle flag

The word "sight" can be expressed with the verb "see." AT: "when they see the flag of Yahweh's army" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

this is Yahweh's declaration

Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Translate as in Isaiah 30:1. AT: "this is what Yahweh has declared" or "this is what I, Yahweh, have declared" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

whose fire is in Zion and whose firepot is in Jerusalem

Both of these clauses mean the same thing and are used together for emphasis. Here God's presence and his power to judge and destroy are spoken of as if they were a fire. AT: "whose powerful presence is in Zion" (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-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 32

Isaiah 32:intro-0

Isaiah 32 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Reign of the Messiah

This chapter appears to prophesy about a time of restoration when the messiah will reign. It pictures a time of great peace and harmony in the world. The translator does not need to add an explanation, but should try to maintain the tense of the original text, as a future or uncompleted action. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/restore.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/fulfill.md]])

Isaiah 32:1-3

Look

This word is used here to draw peoples' attention to what is said next. AT: "Listen"

Each one will be like a shelter from the wind and a refuge from the storm

This compares the king and princes who protect the people to a shelter. AT: "the rulers will protect the people like a shelter does in a storm" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

like streams of water in a dry place

This is another comparison that means that the rulers will provide for the needs of the people. AT: "they will provide for the people like streams of water in a dry place" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

like the shade of a great rock in a land of weariness

This is another comparison that means that the rulers will provide comfort and rest for the people. AT: "they will provide rest for the people like a huge rock gives shade to weary people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Then the eyes ... attentively

Both of these phrases emphasize that the leaders will enable the people to understand God's truth. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

will not be dim

"will see clearly"

translationWords

Isaiah 32:4-6

General Information:

Isaiah continues describing the people after God restores righteous rulers in Judah. (See: Isaiah 32:1-3)

The rash ... the stutterer

This refers to people who act rashly and people who stutter. AT: "The rash person ... the stuttering person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

The fool will no longer be called honorable

This can be stated in active form. AT: "No one will give honor to the fool" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

For the fool speaks folly, and his heart plans evil

"The fool" refers to foolish people. Also, "folly" and "evil" may be expressed as adjectives. AT: "For the foolish person says foolish things and his heart plans evil things" (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-abstractnouns/01.md]])

his heart plans evil

Here the foolish person is referred to by his heart to emphasize his inner thoughts. AT: "he plans evil things in his heart" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

nor the deceiver called principled

This can be stated in active form. "The deceiver" refers to a person who is deceptive. AT: "nor will anyone show respect to the person who deceives" (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-nominaladj/01.md]])

He makes

The word "he" refers to the foolish person.

the hungry empty

"The hungry" refers to hungry people. They are hungry because they have empty stomachs. AT: "the hungry person have an empty stomach" (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-explicit/01.md]])

the thirsty he causes to lack drink

"The thirsty" refers to people who are thirsty. AT: "he causes the thirsty person to have nothing to drink" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 32:7-8

The deceiver's

This refers to a person who deceives others. AT: "The deceptive person's" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

to ruin the poor with lies

"The poor" refers to poor people. Also, the phrase "to ruin" does not means to kill them but to harm them by telling lies about them. AT: "to harm the poor people by telling lies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

he will stand

This means that he will be successful. AT: "he will be successful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 32:9-10

Rise up

"Stand up" or "Pay attention"

at ease

"secure" or "carefree"

my voice

Isaiah refers to himself by his voice to emphasize what he says. AT: "me speak" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

your confidence will be broken

This can be stated in active form. Also, Isaiah speaks of them no longer being confident as if their confidence were a physical object that is broken. AT: "you will no longer be confident" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the grape harvest will fail

This means that there would not be good grapes to harvest. AT: "there will be no grapes for you to harvest" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

the ingathering will not come

"the time for gathering crops will not happen"

translationWords

Isaiah 32:11-13

General Information:

Isaiah continues speaking.

Tremble

shake from fear

at ease

"secure" or "carefree"

take off your fine clothes and make yourselves bare

Here "bare" does not necessarily mean naked, but to wear minimal covering such as undergarments. AT: "take off you fine clothes and make yourself unclothed" or "take off your fancy clothes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

put on sackcloth around your waists

This is an act of grieving or mourning. AT: "put sackcloth around waists as you grieve" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

You will wail for the pleasant fields, for the fruitful vines

This means that they will cry out loudly as they grieve what happens to their fruitful fields and vines. AT: "You will wail because of what happens to your pleasant fields and fruitful vines" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

thorns and briers

See how you translated this phrase in Isaiah 5:6.

the once joyful houses

Here the houses are described as joyful because of the joyful people in them. AT: "your houses where you were once joyful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

the city of revelry

"your joyful city." The word "revelry" means celebrating and partying.

translationWords

Isaiah 32:14-15

General Information:

Isaiah continues speaking.

For the palace will be forsaken, the crowded city will be deserted

This can be stated in active form. AT: "For the people will forsake the palace and the crowds will abandon the city" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the hill

This refers to the fort built on the top of the hill. AT: "the fort on the hill" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the hill and the watchtower will become caves

This speaks of the fort and the watchtower being abandoned as if they became caves. AT: "the hill and the watchtower will become abandoned and empty" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

a joy of wild donkeys, a pasture of flocks

This means the these animals will enjoy the grass that grows among the abandon fort and watchtower. AT: "the wild donkeys and the flocks of sheep will eat the grass there" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

forever

This is an exaggeration for a very long time. AT: "an extremely long time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

until the Spirit is poured

This can be stated in active form. AT: "until Yahweh pours the Spirit" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the Spirit is poured on us

This speaks of Yahweh giving him Spirit to his people as if his Spirit were a liquid that he would pour on them. AT: "the Spirit is given to us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

from on high

Here heaven is referred to as "on high." AT: "from heaven" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the fruitful field is considered as a forest

This can be written in active form. This compares how overly bountiful the fruitful fields are by comparing them to a thick, dense forest. AT: "people will say that the fruitful fields have grown thick like a forest" or "the fruitful fields will be overly bountiful" (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-simile/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 32:16-18

General Information:

Isaiah continues speaking.

justice will reside ... righteousness will live

Isaiah describes "justice" and "righteousness" as a person who lives in these places. This means the people who live in these places will do what is just and right. AT: "people will act justly in the wilderness and people will act righteously in the fertile fields (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

The work of righteousness will be peace; and the result of righteousness, quietness and confidence forever

These two phrases are parallel and both give results of righteousness. These can be combined. AT: "The result of people acting righteously is that there will be peace, and quietness, and confidence forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

habitation

"place"

translationWords

Isaiah 32:19-20

hails

See how you translated this in Isaiah 28:2.

the forest is destroyed, and the city is completely annihilated

This can be stated in active form. AT: "it destroys the forest and completely destroys the city" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

you who sow beside all the streams will be blessed, you who send out your ox and donkey to graze

This can be stated in active form. This refers to Yahweh blessing all of his people and speaks of the things that are normal for his people to do. AT: "Yahweh will bless you, as you plant your crops in fields alongside the streams and as you send out your ox and donkey to graze in the pasture" (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-explicit/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 33

Isaiah 33:intro-0

Isaiah 33 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

This chapter continues the series of "woes." It speaks against ungodly or evil people in general. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/woe.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/ungodly.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]])

Isaiah 33:1

General Information:

Isaiah speaks in poetry for Yahweh to the Assyrians. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

who has not been destroyed

This can be stated in active form. AT: "whom others have not destroyed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

you will be destroyed

This can be stated in active form. AT: "others will destroy you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

they will betray

"others will betray"

translationWords

Isaiah 33:2

be our arm

Here Yahweh's arm refers to his strength. This speaks of Yahweh strengthening them as if Yahweh would use his strength to act for them. AT: "give us strength" (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]])

every morning

This refers to the whole day, not just the morning. AT: "every day" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

our salvation

This understood verb "be" may be supplied. Also, the word "salvation" may be expressed with the verb "save." AT: "be our salvation" or "save us" (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/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

in the time of trouble

This refers to the times when they are experiencing trouble. AT: ""when we have troubles" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-possession/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 33:3-4

At the loud noise the peoples flee

Possible meanings of "the loud noise" are 1) it refers to Yahweh's voice. AT: "The peoples flee at the sound of your loud voice" or 2) it refers the loud sounds of Yahweh's army. AT: "The people flee at the sound of your army" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

arise

This means to begin doing something. AT: "begin acting" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the nations are scattered

This can be written in active form. AT: "the nations scatter" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Your spoil is gathered as the locusts gather; as locusts leap, men leap on it

This compares how quick and eager Yahweh's people are when they gather the spoils from their enemies to the eagerness of locusts when they gather food. This can be stated in active form. AT: "Your people gather spoils from your enemies with the same fierceness as the locusts have who devour green plants" (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/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/nation.md]]

Isaiah 33:5-6

General Information:

Isaiah speaks to the people of Judah.

Yahweh is exalted

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh is greater than anyone else" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

He will fill Zion with justice and righteousness

This speaks of Yahweh ruling Zion with his justice and righteousness as if he were filling Zion with justice and righteousness. AT: "He will rule Zion with justice and righteousness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

He will be the stability in your times

This speaks of Yahweh causing his people to be secure as if he were the stability himself. The phrase "your times" refers to their lives. AT: "He will make you secure all your lives" (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]])

abundance of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge

This refers to the things that Yahweh will give to them. The abstract noun "salvation" can be expressed with the verb "save." The abstract nouns "wisdom" and "knowledge" can be expressed with adjectives. AT: "and he will give you an abundance of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge" or "he will save you and cause you to be very wise and knowledgeable" (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/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the fear of Yahweh is his treasure

This speaks of fearing Yahweh as if it were a treasure that Yahweh gives his people. AT: "revering Yahweh will be like a valuable treasure that he will give to you" or "to fear Yahweh will be as valuable to you as a treasure" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 33:7-8

Look

This word is used here to draw peoples' attention to what is said next. It is also used here to mark a new section in the book. AT: "Listen"

envoys

"messengers"

the diplomats hoping for peace weep bitterly

This means they weep because they do not succeed in making peace. AT: "the diplomats hope for peace but they do not succeed and so they weep bitterly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

The highways are deserted; there are no more travelers

Both of the phrases emphasize that there are no travelers on the highways. These can be combined and stated in active form. AT: "People no longer travel on the highways" (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-activepassive/01.md]])

Covenants are broken, witnesses are despised, and mankind is not respected

This passage may refer to general conditions of corruption in Israel, or it may refer to the nation's inability to make reliable peace treaties with Assyria. This can be stated in active form. AT: "People break covenants that they have made, people ignore the testimony of witnesses, and people do not respect one another" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 33:9

The land mourns and withers away

This speaks of the land becoming dry as if it were a person mourning. AT: "The land becomes dry and its plants wither away" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Lebanon is ashamed and withers away

Here "Lebanon" represents Lebanon's trees. This speaks of the trees withering and decaying as if they were a person who is ashamed. AT: "Lebanon's trees wither and decay" (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]])

Sharon ... Bashan ... Carmel

Many trees and flowers once grew in these places.

Sharon is like a desert plain

This compares how dry Sharon is to a desert plain. AT: "Sharon is as dry as a desert plain" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Bashan and Carmel shake off their leaves

Here Bashan and Carmel are represented by their trees. AT: "there are no more leaves on the trees in Bashan and Carmel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 33:10-12

will I arise

To arise or stand up is a metaphor for no longer watching and thinking and instead beginning to act. AT: "will I begin to act" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

now I will be lifted up; now I will be elevated

This can be stated in active form. These two phrases have basically the same meaning and emphasize Yahweh being exalted. AT: "now I will exalt myself and show that I deserve for everyone to honor me" (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-parallelism/01.md]])

You conceive chaff, and you give birth to stubble

This speaks of the Assyrians making plans as if they were conceiving and giving birth to their plans as a mother gives birth to a baby. This speaks of their plans being useless by comparing them to chaff. AT: "You make plans that are as useless as chaff and straw" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

stubble

"straw"

your breath is a fire that will consume you

Here the Assyrians' plans are referred to as their "breath." This speaks of their plans causing them to die as if their plans would literally burn up their bodies. AT: "your plans will cause you to die" (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]])

The peoples will be burned to lime, as thornbushes are cut down and are burned

This compares how the peoples' dead bodies will be burned to the way thornbushes are burned. Also, this can be stated in active form. AT: "Fire will burn the peoples' bodies to lime in the same way that a farmer cuts down thornbushes and burns them" (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/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

lime

the ashes from burned bones

translationWords

Isaiah 33:13-14

General Information:

Yahweh continues to speak.

You who are far away, hear what I have done; and, you who are near, acknowledge my might

Yahweh uses the words "far away" and "near" to mean all people. The word "might" can be expressed with the adjective "mighty." AT: "All people everywhere hear what I have done and acknowledge that I am mighty" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

trembling has seized the godless ones

This speaks of the godless people trembling as if their trembling were an enemy that had seized them. AT: "the godless ones are overwhelmed with trembling" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Who among us ... burnings?

It is implied that the sinners in Zion ask these questions. AT: "They say, 'Who among us ... burnings?'" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Who among us can sojourn with a raging fire? Who among us can sojourn with everlasting burnings?

These rhetorial questions have basically the same meaning and emphasize that no one can live with fire. Here fire represents Yahweh's judgment. AT: "No one can live with raging fire! No one can live with everylasting burns!" or "No one can live bearing Yahweh's judgment, it is like an everlasting fire!" (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-metonymy/01.md]])

sojourn

live in a place that is not one's home

translationWords

Isaiah 33:15-16

He who walks

Here walking refers to living. AT: "He who lives" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

who despises the gain of oppression

The noun phrase "the gain of oppression" can be expressed as a verb phrase. AT: "who hates the riches that come from harming other people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

shuts his eyes from looking on evil

Here "looking on" refers to approving of something. AT: "who do not approve of doing evil" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

this is the man who will dwell on the heights, his place of defense will be the fortress among the cliffs

This speaks of the man being safe as if he lived in a home on a high hill. These two phrase are parallel and the second phrase describes the place where the man lives. AT: "he will be safe, like a man who home is built on a high hill, in a rocky place that is easy to defend" (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 heights

This refers to a high hill or mountainside. AT: "the high hill" or "the mountainside" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the fortress among the cliffs

This speaks of rocky areas that are easy to defend as if they were actually fortresses. AT: "the large piles of rocks" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

will be in steady supply

"will always be available"

translationWords

Isaiah 33:17-19

Your eyes will see ... they will see

This refers the audience by their "eyes." AT: "You will see ... you will see" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

the king in his beauty

The king's royal robes are referred to as "his beauty." AT: "the king in his beautiful robes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Your heart will recall the terror

This refers to the audience by their "hearts." "The terror" refers to their war with the Assyrians. This can be stated clearly. AT: "You will remember the terror that the Assyrians caused you when they attacked" (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]])

where is the scribe, where is he who weighed the money? Where is he who counted the towers?

These rhetorical question are asked to emphasize that the Assyrian officials are gone. These questions may be written as statements. AT: "The officers of Assyria who counted the tax money that we were forced to pay to them have disappeared! Those men who counted our towers are gone!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

weighed the money

Money was valuable metal; its value was determined by its weight.

a people of a strange language

"a people who spoke a strange language"

comprehend

"understand"

translationWords

Isaiah 33:20-21

General Information:

Isaiah continues to speak to the people of Judah.

the city of our feasts

This means that they have their festival and feasts at this city. AT: "the city where we have our feasts" or "they city where we celebrate our festivals" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-possession/01.md]])

your eyes will see

The people are referred to by their "eyes" to emphasize what they are seeing. AT: "you will see" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

a tent that will not be removed

This speaks of Zion being secure and well establish as if it were secure tent. This can be stated in active form and written as a new sentence. AT: "it will be secure, like a tent that no one will ever remove" (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]])

whose stakes will never be pulled up nor will any of its cords be broken

This is part of the metaphor that compares Zion to a secure tent. This can be stated in active form. AT: "whose stakes no one will ever pull up and whose cords no one will ever break" (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 in majesty will be with us, in a place of broad rivers and streams

Here "us" refers to Isaiah and includes the people of Judah. This speaks of the safety of living with Yahweh as if it were a place that has rivers around it so that enemies cannot attack it. AT: "Yahweh who is majestic will be with us, and we will be safe as if we were in a place surrounded by broad rivers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

will travel it

"will travel the river"

translationWords

Isaiah 33:22

our ... us

This refers to Isaiah and includes the people of Judah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 33:23-24

Your riggings are slack; they cannot hold the mast in place; they cannot spread the sail

Possible meanings: 1) The Assyrian army is like a boat that is unable to move through the water: the ropes that support the mast and sail have come loose and no longer support the mast, so the sail is useless (Isaiah 33:1) or 2) the people of Judah are no longer at war: "You have loosened the cords that supported your flagpole; the flag no longer flies" (Isaiah 33:17-Isaiah 22). (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

mast

tall poles that support the sail

sail

a large cloth that fills with wind and moves a boat through the water

when the great spoil is divided

This can be stated in active form. AT: "when they divide the treasure" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the lame

This refers to people who are cannot walk. AT: "those who are lame" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

the people who live there will be forgiven for their iniquity

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will forgive the sins of the people who live there" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 34

Isaiah 34:intro-0

Isaiah 34 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Destruction

There are many images used in this chapter which describe destruction. Here each of these metaphors describes complete destruction. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# Prophecy

Isaiah 34:1-2

General Information:

Yahweh is speaking in poetry. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

The earth and all that fills it must listen, the world, and all things that come from it

Here the earth is spoken of as being required to listen to Yahweh to emphasize that it is under Yahweh's authority. These two parallel phrases are metonyms for all the people who live in the world. AT: "In all places everywhere on earth, everyone must listen to what I say" (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-metonymy/01.md]])

the world, and all things that come from it

This is the second of two parallel phrases. The understood words may be supplied in this phrase. AT: "the world, and all things that come from it must listen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

he has completely destroyed them, he has handed them over to the slaughter

Often prophets speak of things that will happen in the future as if they have already happened. This emphasizes the event will certainly happen. AT: "he will completely destroy them, he will give them over to the slaughter" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pastforfuture/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 34:3-4

The bodies of their dead will be thrown out

This can be stated in active form. AT: "No one will bury their dead" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

their dead

This refers to the dead people. AT: "those who died" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

the mountains will soak up their blood

"the mountains will be covered in their blood"

the sky will be rolled up like a scroll

This can be stated in active form. This compares what Yahweh will do to the sky to a person rolling up a scroll. AT: "Yahweh will roll up the sky in the same way that a person rolls up a scroll" (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-simile/01.md]])

all their stars will fade away, as the leaf fades from off the vine, and as the overripe figs from the fig tree

This emphasizes even the things in the sky that people thought would be there forever will fall as easily as a leaf. AT: "all the stars will fall from the sky like a leaf falls from a vine or a fig falls from a tree" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 34:5-6

when my sword will have drunk its fill in heaven

Yahweh describes himself as a warrior bearing a sword. The phrase "drunk its fill" speaks of Yahweh's sword as if it were a person who has eaten and become satisfied. Yahweh uses this imagery to emphasize that there will be a lot of destruction in heaven and to state its completion. AT: "when I am finished destroying things in heaven" (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]])

look

This word is used here to draw the listener's attention and to have them imagine the things being said. AT: "listen" or "and then"

it will now come down on Edom, on the people I am setting apart for destruction

The word "it" refers to Yahweh's sword. This continues the metaphor about Yahweh destroying things with a sword. AT: "I will come to punish the people of Edom, the people whom I have set aside for me to destroy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

on Edom

Edom refers to the people who live there. AT: "on the people of Edom" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

The sword of Yahweh is dripping with blood and covered with fat ... of rams

This speaks of Yahweh killing the people as if he were a priest sacrificing animals. He does this by describing the sword of a priest. AT: "Yahweh sacrifices them as a priest sacrifices animals, whose sword drips with the blood and fat of lambs, goats, and rams" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

For Yahweh has a sacrifice in Bozrah and a great slaughter in the land of Edom

The words "sacrifice" and "slaughter" may be expressed here as verbs. AT: "For Yahweh will sacrifice many people in Bozrah and kill many people in the land of Edom" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Bozrah

This is an important city in Edom. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 34:7

Wild oxen will be slaughtered

This can be stated in active form. AT: "I, Yahweh, will slaughter the wild oxen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Their land will be drunk with blood

This describes the amount of blood that will soak into the ground by comparing the land to a drunk person. AT: "Their land will be soaked with blood" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

their dust made fat with fatness

Here "dust" means the dirt on the ground. This describes the amount of fat that will soak into the dirt by comparing it to a person that has become fat from eating so much animal fat. AT: "the dirt will be full of the fat of the animals" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 34:8-10

it will be a day of vengeance for Yahweh

Here "day" is an idiom for a point in time; it is not a literal "day." AT: "it will be the time when Yahweh gets revenge" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

he will pay them back for the cause of Zion

This means that he will take revenge on them for how they had previously waged war against the people of Jerusalem. AT: "he will give them the punishment they deserve for what they had done to the people of Zion" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

The streams of Edom will be turned into pitch ... become burning pitch

The water and land becoming useless for drinking or growing food because it is burnt and covered in pitch and sulfur is spoken of as if their streams and land will actually become pitch and sulfur. AT: "The streams in Edom will be full of pitch and the ground will be covered with burning sulfur and burning pitch" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

her dust ... her land

"Edom's dust ... Edom's land"

pitch

a thick, black substance that burns for a long time

It will burn night and day

This means all of the time. AT: "It will burn throughout the night and the day" or "It will burn constantly, all night and all day" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

from generation to generation

The phrase "generation to generation" refers to all generations of people who will live in the future. See how you translated this phrase in Isaiah 13:20. AT: "forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 34:11-12

will live there

"will live in the land of Edom"

owl

See how you translated this in Isaiah 13:21.

raven

This is a large black bird. It is difficult to identify some of the precise kinds of birds mentioned in this passage. However, they were all birds that preferred to live in places where there were no people, so they symbolize deserted places.

in it

"there." This refers to Edom.

He will stretch over it the measuring line of ruin and the plumbline of destruction

This speaks of Yahweh as if he were a careful builder as he causes destruction in Edom. AT: "Yahweh will measure that land carefully; he will measure it to to decide where to cause ruin and destruction" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

measuring line ... plumbline

These are builders' tools. See how you translated similar words in Isaiah 28:17.

Her nobles ... her princes

"The nobles of Edom ... the princes of Edom"

all her princes will be nothing

This exaggerates the princes losing their royal status by saying that they will become nothing. AT: "all her princes will no longer rule" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 34:13-15

Thorns ... nettles ... thistles

These are all weeds with thorns. Nettles' thorns have poison that causes itching.

jackals ... ostriches ... wild animals ... hyenas ... Owls

Translate the names of these animals the same as you did in Isaiah 13:21-22.

Nocturnal animals

animals that are awake and active at night

hawks

birds that kill small animals for food

translationWords

Isaiah 34:16-17

Search through the scroll of Yahweh

The phrase "the scroll of Yahweh" means that it contains the messages spoken by Yahweh. AT: "Read carefully what is written in this scroll that contains the messages of Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-possession/01.md]])

not one of these

"not one of the animals"

None will lack for a mate

This can be written as a positive statement. AT: "Each animal will have a mate" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublenegatives/01.md]])

for his mouth has commanded it

Yahweh is referred to by his "mouth" to emphasize what he has said. AT: "for Yahweh has commanded it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

He has cast lots for their places

This speaks of Yahweh deciding where to cause the animals to live as if he actually cast lots for their places. AT: "He has determined where they will live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

his hand has measured it out for them by a cord

This refers to the way that people measured things in biblical times. AT: "he has given the animals their places" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

from generation to generation they will

The phrase "generation to generation" refers to all generations of people who will live in the future. See how you translated the phrase "from generation to generation" in Isaiah 13:20. AT: "forever they will" or "they will always" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 35

Isaiah 35:intro-0

Isaiah 35 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# Reign of the Messiah

Isaiah 35:1-2

The wilderness and the Arabah will be glad; and the desert will rejoice

These two phrases have basically the same meaning. These places are described as being glad, like a person is glad, because they have received water and are blossoming. AT: "It will be like the wilderness and the Arabah are glad and the desert will rejoice" (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-parallelism/01.md]])

blossom

This speaks of the plants in the desert blossoming as if the desert itself were blossoming. AT: "its plants will blossom" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Like the rose, it will blossom abundantly

This compares the way the plants of the desert blossom to the way a rose has many blossoms. AT: "The desert will grow many new plants and trees" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

and rejoice with joy and singing

This speaks of the desert as if it were happy and singing like a person. AT: "it will be as though everything is rejoicing and singing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

the glory of Lebanon will be given to it

This can be stated in active form. This speaks of Yahweh making the desert looks as glorious as Lebanon as if he were giving the desert Lebanon's glory. AT: "Yahweh will give it the glory of Lebanon" or "Yahweh will make it as glorious as Lebanon" (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]])

the splendor of Carmel and Sharon

This speaks of Yahweh making the desert look beautiful as Carmel and Sharon as if he were giving the desert their splendor. The understood information may be supplied. AT: "the splendor of Carmel and Sharon will be given to it" or "Yahweh will make it as splendid as Carmel and Sharon" (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-ellipsis/01.md]])

the glory of Yahweh, the splendor of our God

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize Yahweh's appearance. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 35:3-4

General Information:

Isaiah is speaking to the people of Judah.

Strengthen the weak hands, and steady the knees that shake.

The words "weak hands" and "knees that shake" represent a person who is fearful. AT: "Strengthen those whose hands are weak and whose knees shake from fear" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

those with a fearful heart

Here people are referred to by their hearts, which emphasize their inner feelings. AT: "to those who are fearful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Look

This is used here to draw the listeners' attention to what is said next. AT: "Listen"

your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God

This can be reworded so that the abstract nouns "vengeance" and "recompense" are expressed as the verb "punish." The words "vengeance" and "recompense" mean the same thing and emphasize that God will punish Judah's enemies. AT: "your God will punish your enemies for what they have done" (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-doublet/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 35:5-7

General Information:

These verses begin a description of the glorious future for God's people.

the eyes of the blind will see

"The blind" refers to people who are blind. They are referred to by their "eyes" to emphasize their healing. AT: "blind people will see" (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-synecdoche/01.md]])

the ears of the deaf will hear

"The deaf" refers to people who cannot hear. They are referred to by their "ears" to emphasize their healing. AT: "deaf people will hear" (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-synecdoche/01.md]])

the lame man will leap like a deer

Deer can jump far and high. Jumping like a deer is an exaggeration for being able to move about quickly and easily. AT: "the lame man will jump high" (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/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

the mute tongue will sing

This refers to people who cannot speak. They are referred to by their "tongues" to emphasize their healing. AT: "mute people will sing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

streams in the wilderness

The understood verb may be supplied. AT: "streams will flow in the wilderness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

The burning sand will become a pool

This means that a pool of water will appear in the hot sand. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. AT: "A pool will appear in the burning sand" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

the thirsty ground

Here the dry ground is described as being thirsty. AT: "the dry ground" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

the thirsty ground springs of water

This means that springs will appear in the dry ground. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. AT: "springs of water will appear in the thirsty ground" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

jackals

See how you translated this in Isaiah 13:22.

reeds and rushes

These are plants that grow in wet areas.

translationWords

Isaiah 35:8-9

General Information:

These verses continue the description of the glorious future for God's people.

A highway will be there called The Holy Way

This can be stated in active form. AT: "A highway will be there that has the name The Holy Way" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

highway

See how you translated this word in Isaiah 11:16.

The unclean

This refers to unclean people. A person who God considers spiritually unacceptable or defiled is spoken of as if the person were physically unclean. AT: "Those who are unclean" or "People who are not acceptable to God" (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]])

him who walks in it

This is an idiom. Here "walking" refers to "living." This refers to the person who lives a holy life. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. AT: "who lives in the holy way" or "who lives a holy life" (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-explicit/01.md]])

they will not be found there

This can be stated in active form. AT: "no one will find them there" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the redeemed

This refers to people who God has redeemed. AT: "those who are redeemed" or "those who God has redeemed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 35:10

The ransomed of Yahweh

To "ransom" means to "rescue." This refers to people whom Yahweh has rescued. AT: "Those whom Yahweh has rescued" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

everlasting joy will be on their heads

This uses a person's head to mean the person as a whole. AT: "they will have everlasting joy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

gladness and joy ... sorrow and sighing

The words "gladness" and "joy" mean basically the same thing, as do "sorrow" and "sighing." Together they emphasize the intensity of these emotions. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

gladness and joy will overtake them

This speaks of the people being overwhelmed by gladness and joy by giving these emotions the human quality of being able to overtake someone by force. AT: "they will be overwhelmed by joy and gladness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

sorrow and sighing will flee away

This speaks of the people no longer being sorrowful and sighing by giving these emotions the human ability to run away. AT: "they will no longer be sorrowful and sighing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 36

Isaiah 36:intro-0

Isaiah 36 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The previous chapters have been constructed as prophecy and contain many poetic elements. This chapter switches to a narrative and is a discussion between the officials from Assyria and Judah. To make the meaning clear here, it may be helpful to set apart the extended quotations through the use of indentation. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Trust

The people of Judah were to trust in Yahweh because only he could provide them with protection. The people of Jerusalem were protected because they trusted in Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Rhetorical Questions

The Assyrian commanders use rhetorical questions in this chapter to mock or insult Judah and their God, Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Isaiah 36:1-3

the fourteenth year

"year 14" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-ordinal/01.md]])

King Hezekiah

See how you translated the name of this king in Isaiah 1:1.

Sennacherib

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

Sennacherib ... attacked all the fortified cities

Here Sennacherib represents himself and his army. AT: "Sennacherib and his army ... attacked all the fortified cities" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

the chief commander

Some versions of the Bible translate this as "the Rabshakeh." This is the Assyrian word for one of the highest ranking military leaders in Assyria.

Lachish

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

conduit

man-made ditch or tunnel through which water flows. See how you translated this in Isaiah 7:3.

the launderers' field

Possible meanings are 1) this is the proper name by which the people called the field or 2) this is the common noun that the people used to talk about the field, "the launderers' field" or "the field where men wash wool" or "the field where women wash clothes." See how you translated this in Isaiah 7:3. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

the launderers' field

Launderer are either 1) men who wash wool that someone has cut from the sheep, "wool washers field," or 2) women who wash dirty clothes, "clothes washers field." See how you translated this in Isaiah 7:3. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 36:4-5

said to them

"said to Eliakim, Shebna, and Joah"

What is the source of your confidence?

The king of Assyria uses this question to challenge Hezekiah and to say that he does not have a good source for confidence. This question may be written as a statement. AT: "You have no reliable source for your confidence." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

there is counsel and strength for war

"you have the council and the strength to go to war." The phrase "strength for war" refers to having a large enough and strong enough army with weapons. AT: "you have enough military council, strong men, and weapons to go to war" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Now in whom are you trusting? Who has given you courage to rebel against me?

The king of Assyria uses questions to ridicule Hezekiah for believing he has the strength to rebel. This question may be written as a statement. AT: "No matter in whom you trust, you will not have the courage to rebel against me." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 36:6-7

General Information:

This continues the king of Assyria's message to Hezekiah. The chief commander is speaking the message to Hezekiah's men. (See: Isaiah 36:4-5)

Look

Sennacherib uses this word to draw Hezekiah's attention to what he says next. AT: "Listen"

trusting in Egypt

Here "Egypt" refers to the Egyptian army. AT: "trusting in the Egyptian army" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

that splintered reed that you use as a walking staff, but if a man leans on it, it will stick into his hand and pierce it

This speaks of Egypt, specifically its army and its Pharaoh, as if it were a splintered reed to emphasize that relying on them would not help them but would only harm them. AT: "that is like walking with a splintered reed for a staff. If a man leans on it, it will stick into his hand and pierce it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

splintered reed

A reed is the long, thin stem of a plant like tall grass. If it is splintered or damaged it cannot carry any weight.

walking staff

This is a stick that someone would use for support when walking, made of whatever kind of tree limb that is found along the way.

is not he the one whose high places and altars Hezekiah has taken away ... Jerusalem"?

The king of Assyria uses this question to ridicule the people and to imply that Yahweh was angry about what Hezekiah did and would not protect them. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. AT: "he is the one whose high places and altars Hezekiah has taken away ... Jerusalem." or "he is the one whom Hezekiah insulted by tearing down his high places and altars ... Jerusalem." (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-explicit/01.md]])

has said to Judah and to Jerusalem, "You must worship before this altar in Jerusalem"?

This can be written as an indirect quote. "Judah" and "Jerusalem" refer to the people who live in them. AT: "has told the people of Judah and Jerusalem that they must worship only at this altar in Jerusalem." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotations/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 36:8

General Information:

This continues the king of Assyria's message to Hezekiah by speaking the message to Hezekiah's men. (See: Isaiah 36:4-5)

two thousand horses

"2,000 horses" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

if you are able to find riders for them

The chief commander continues to ridicule Hezekiah and his army by implying that he did not have many soldiers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-irony/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 36:9-10

General Information:

This continues the king of Assyria's message to Hezekiah by speaking the message to Hezekiah's men. (See: Isaiah 36:4-5)

How could you resist even one captain ... servants?

The chief commander continues to ridicule Hezekiah and his army. When he says "you," referring to Hezekiah, he is actually referring to Hezekiah's army. This question may be written as a statement. AT: "Your army could not even defeat one captain ... servants." (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-metonymy/01.md]])

Now then, have I traveled up here without Yahweh to fight against this land and destroy it?

The chief commander uses another question to ridicule Hezekiah and the people of Judah. This question may be written as a statement. AT: "I came here with Yahweh's command to destroy Jerusalem." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

without Yahweh

Here "Yahweh" refers to Yahweh's orders. AT: "without Yahweh's command" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

against this land and destroy it ... Attack this land and destroy it

This means to fight against the people and cause destruction in the place where they live. The land referred to here is Jerusalem. AT: "against this people and destroy their land ... Attack these people and destroy their land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 36:11-12

Eliakim ... Hilkiah ... Shebnah

See how you translated these men's names in Isaiah 22:20.

Shebnah

See how you translated this man's name in Isaiah 22:15.

Joah ... chief commander

See how you translated this man's name and the phrase "chief commander" the same as you did in Isaiah 36:2-3.

Please speak to your servants

Eliakim, Shebnah, and Joah refer to themselves as the chief commander's servants. This is a polite way to speak to someone who has greater authority.

the Aramean language, Aramaic

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

in the ears of the people who are on the wall

The idiom "to speak in someone's ear" means to speak where they can hear you. AT: "where the people who are on the wall may hear us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

who are on the wall

This means that they are standing on the wall. The top of the wall was wide and a place where people could sit or stand. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. AT: "who are standing on the wall" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Has my master sent me to your master and to you to speak these words?

The chief commander uses this question to emphasize that his message is for all the people of Judah. This question may be written as a statement. AT: "Certainly, my master has sent me to speak this message to you and to all who can hear." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Has he not sent me to the men who sit on the wall, who will have to ... you?

The chief commander uses this question to emphasize his insult. This can be written as a statement. AT: "My master has sent me to everyone who hears this, who will have to ... you." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

will have to eat their own dung and drink their own urine with you

This is a very offensive statement. He is implying that they will need to eat these things because they will have nothing else to eat because their city will be under attack. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. AT: "will soon need to eat their own dung and drink their own urine, just as you will, because you will have nothing else to eat" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 36:13-15

the chief commander

See how you translated this phrase in Isaiah 36:2.

this city will not be given into the hand of the king of Assyria

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will not give Jerusalem into the hand of the king of Assyria" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the hand of the king

The king's "hand" refers to his "control." AT: "the control of the king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 36:16-17

General Information:

The chief commander continues speaking to the people of Judah.

Make peace with me

This idiom means to agree officially to act peacefully towards one another. AT: "Let us agree to have peace" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

come out to me

This idiom means to surrender. AT: "surrender to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

until I come and take

Here the king of Assyria is referring to his army as himself. AT: "until my army comes and takes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

a land of grain and new wine, a land of bread and vineyards

These two phrase have the same meaning and are used together to emphasize how prosperous the land will be. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

a land of grain ... a land of bread

This means that they land is full of natural resources, such as grain. AT: "a land where there is plenty of grain ... a land where there is plenty of bread" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-possession/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 36:18-20

General Information:

The chief commander continues speaking the king of Assyria's message to the people of Judah. (See: Isaiah 36:16)

Has any of the gods of the peoples rescued them from ... Assyria?

The chief commander uses this question to ridicule the people of Judah. This question may be written as a statement. AT: "None of the gods of the peoples rescued them from ... Assyria." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

the hand of the king

The king's control is referred to as his "hand." AT: "the control of the king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Where are the gods of Hamath and Arpad? Where are the gods of Sepharvaim? Have they rescued Samaria from my power?

The chief commander uses these questions to ridicule the people of Judah. These questions may be combined and written as a statement. AT: "The gods of Hamath, Arpad, Sepharvaim, and Samaria did not rescue their people from my power." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Hamath ... Arpad

Translate the names of these cities the same as you did in Isaiah 10:09. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Sepharvaim

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

is there any god who has rescued ... as if Yahweh could save Jerusalem from my power?

The chief commander uses this question to ridicule the people of Judah. This question may be written as a statement. AT: "there is no god who has rescued ... and Yahweh will not save you in Jerusalem from my power." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

his land

This refers to the people who live in the land. AT: "his people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 36:21-22

Eliakim ... Hilkiah ... Shebna ... Joah ... Asaph

Translate the names of these men the same as you did in Isaiah 36:03. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

over the household

This idiom means that he was in charge of the affairs of the palace household. AT: "in charge of the palace" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

with their clothes torn

Hezekiah's officials tore their clothes as a sign of mourning and distress. The meaning of this can be made clear. AT: "with their clothes torn because they were extremely distressed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 37

Isaiah 37:intro-0

Isaiah 37 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in 37:22-38.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Tearing clothes and putting on sackcloth

This was a sign of great distress. While it is often accompanies repentance, in this chapter it is intended to show the king's anger at the blasphemy of the Assyrians when they spoke against Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sign.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/repent.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/blasphemy.md]])

# Prayer

Hezekiah was different from the other kings because when he was threatened by Assyria, he went to Yahweh in prayer. He did not trust in his army or make an alliance with Egypt. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]])

Isaiah 37:1-2

It came about that

This phrase is used here to mark an important event in the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-newevent/01.md]])

he tore his clothes, covered himself with sackcloth

This is a sign of mourning and distress. AT: "he tore his clothes and covered himself with sackcloth because he was very distressed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

Eliakim ... Shebna

Translate the names of these men the same as you did in Isaiah 36:03. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

over the household

This is an idiom that means that he was in charge of the affairs of the palace household. AT: "in charge of the palace" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

all covered with sackcloth

This is a sign of mourning and distress. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 37:3-4

They said to him

"The men sent by Hezekiah said to Isaiah"

like when a child is ready to be born, but the mother has no strength to give birth to her child

This comparison is made to emphasizes that they are in a time of extreme difficulty. AT: "It is as terrible as the day when a child is ready to be born, but the mother has no strength to give birth to her child" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

It may be Yahweh your God will hear the words

Hezekiah is indirectly suggesting that if the people pray Yahweh may listen and act upon what the chief commander had said. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. AT: "Maybe if you pray to Yahweh your God will hear the message" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

the chief commander

See how you translated this phrase in Isaiah 36:2.

his master

This phrase means that the king is the chief commander's master.

will rebuke the words which Yahweh your God has heard

Here the phrase "the words which Yahweh your God has heard" refers to what the king of Assyria had said. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. AT: "Yahweh your God will rebuke the king of Assyria for what he has said" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

lift up your prayer

Praying to Yahweh is described this way to emphasize that Yahweh is in heaven. A prayer is spoken of as if they were objects that could be lifted high into the sky. AT: "pray" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

for the remnant that is still here

This refers to the people who are left in Jerusalem. AT: "for the few of us that are still here" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 37:5-7

I will put a spirit in him, and he will hear a certain report and go back to his own land

The phrase "put a spirit in him" means that God will influence him to make a specific decision. The word "spirit" here means a strong attitude or feeling. AT: "I will influence him so that when he hears a certain report, he will go back to his own land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Look

This word is used here to draw the peoples' attention to what is said next. AT: "Listen"

I will cause him to fall by the sword in his own land

The phrase "fall by the sword" is an idiom that means that his enemy will kill him with a sword. AT: "And there in his own land, I will cause his enemies to kill him with their swords" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 37:8-10

Lachish

See how you translated the name of this city in Isaiah 36:2. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Sennacherib

See how you translated this man's name in Isaiah 36:1. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Libnah

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

Tirhakah king of Cush and Egypt had mobilized to fight against him

"Tirhakah" is the name of a man. He had mobilized his army so that they were ready to fight. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. AT: "Tirhakah king of Cush and Egypt had mobilized his army" (See: [[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-explicit/01.md]])

to fight against him

The word "him" represents Sennacherib. Here Sennacherib represents his army. AT: "to fight against the army of Sennacherib" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Jerusalem will not be given into the hand of the king of Assyria

This can be stated in active form. The word "hand" refers to the king's military power. AT: "The king of Assyria and his army will not conquer you in Jerusalem" (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 37:11-13

General Information:

This continues the king of Assyria's message to Hezekiah.

See, you have heard

The word "see" here is used to add emphasis to what is said next. AT: "You have certainly heard"

So will you be rescued?

The king of Assyria uses this question to ridicule Hezekiah and his army. This may be written as a statement. AT: "So you too will not be saved." or "So of course no one will rescue you either!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Have the gods of the nations rescued them ... Tel Assar?

The king of Assyria uses this question to ridicule Hezekiah and his army. This may be written as a statement. AT: "The nations' god did not rescue the nations that my fathers destroyed ... Tel Assar!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

that my fathers destroyed

These men destroyed the cities listed by conquering them with their armies. Here the word "fathers" refers to his father and his other ancestors who were kings. AT: "that my fathers destroyed with their armies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Gozan ... Haran ... Rezeph ... Eden ... Tel Assar ... Hena ... Ivvah

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

Where is the king ... Ivvah?

The king of Assyria uses this question to ridicule Hezekiah and his army. This may be written as a statement. AT: "We also conquered the king ... Ivvah!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Hamath ... Arpad ... Sepharvaim

Translate the names of these cities the same as you did in Isaiah 36:19. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 37:14-16

from hand of the messengers

Here the messengers are referred to by their "hand" to emphasize that they personally gave it to the king. AT: "that the messengers gave him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

he went up to the house of Yahweh

The house of Yahweh was at the highest place in Jerusalem, so it is spoken of as "up."

spread it before him

"spread out the letter in front of Yahweh." Being in the house of Yahweh is considered the same as being in Yahweh's presence. The letter was a scroll that could be unrolled and spread out.

you who sit above the cherubim

You may need to make explicit that the cherubim are those on the lid of the ark of the covenant. The biblical writers often spoke of the ark of the covenant as if it were Yahweh's footstool upon which he rested his feet as he sat on his throne in heaven above. AT: "you who sit on your throne above the cherubim on the ark of the covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

you are God alone

"only you are God"

over all the kingdoms

This idiom means to have authority and to rule over all the kingdoms. AT: "have authority over all the kingdoms" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

You made the heavens and the earth

This means that he created everything. AT: "You made everything" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 37:17-18

General Information:

Hezekiah continues praying to Yahweh.

which he has sent

Hezekiah is referring to the letter from Sennacherib. The meaning of this can be made clear. AT: "in the message he has sent" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Turn your ear

"Incline your ear" or "Turn your head." This means to turn your head so that you can hear something better.

Sennacherib

See how you translated this man's name in Isaiah 36:1. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

all the nations and their lands

This is a generalization. The kings had destroyed many of the nearby lands, but not necessarily all lands. AT: "many of the nations and their lands" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 37:19-20

General Information:

Hezekiah continues praying to Yahweh.

for they were not gods but the work of men's hands, just wood and stone

This emphasizes that humans made these idols with their own hands and are therefore worthless. AT: "because they were false gods that men made out of wood and stone" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

from his power

"from the king of Assyria's power"

all the kingdoms

This refers to the people in the kingdoms. AT: "all the people in the kingdoms" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

you are Yahweh alone

"only you, Yahweh, are God"

translationWords

Isaiah 37:21-23

sent a message

This means that he sent a messenger to give a message to the king. AT: "sent someone to give a message" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

is the word that Yahweh has spoken

"is what Yahweh has said"

laughs you to scorn

"laughs at you" or "makes fun of you"

shakes her head

This is a gesture of scorn. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-symaction/01.md]])

The virgin daughter of Zion ... the daughter of Jerusalem

These are idioms. Both of these phrases have the same meaning. The "daughter" of a city means the people who live in the city. See how you translated a similar phrase in Isaiah 1:8. AT: "The people of Zion ... the people of Jerusalem" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Whom have you defied and insulted? ... Against the Holy One of Israel.

Yahweh uses these rhetorical questions to ridicule the king of Assyria. These can be written as statements. AT: "You have defied and insulted Yahweh, you have shouted at and acted pridefully against the Holy One of Israel!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

have you exalted your voice

This refers to speaking loudly as if the person's voice were an object that they lifted high. AT: "have you shouted" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

lifted up your eyes in pride

This is an idiom that means to look at something pridefully, considering yourself more important that you should. AT: "looked at pridefully" or "acted pridefully" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 37:24-25

General Information:

This continues Yahweh's message to the king of Assyria.

By your servants

This refers to to the servants that he had sent to Hezekiah with a message. This can be stated clearly. AT: "In the messages you sent with your servants" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

I have gone ... I will cut ... I will enter ... I have dug ... I dried ... my feet

Here Sennacherib speaks of himself conquering many things. He is actually conquering them with the armies and chariots that he commands. AT: "We have gone ... We will cut ... we will enter ... We have dug ... we dried ... our feet" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

its tall cedars

"Lebanon's tall cedars"

its most fruitful forest

Here the word "fruitful" refers to the forest being dense and full of healthy trees. The understood information may be supplied. AT: "and into its most fruitful forest" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

I dried up all the rivers of Egypt under the soles of my feet

Here Sennachrib is exaggerating his conquest and travels across the rivers of Egypt by claiming to have dried up the rivers when he marched his army through them. AT: "I have marched through all the rivers of Egypt as if they were dry under my feet" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 37:26-27

General Information:

This continues Yahweh's message to the king of Assyria.

Have you not heard how ... times?

Yahweh uses this rhetorical question to remind Sennacherib of information that he should already be aware of. This can be written as a statement. AT: "Certainly you have heard how ... times." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

You are here to reduce impregnable cities into heaps of ruins

Yahweh had planned for Sennacherib's army to destroy the cities that they had destroyed. This can be stated clearly. AT: "I planned that your army would destroy cities and cause them to become piles of rubble" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

impregnable

strong and heavily guarded

of little strength

"who are weak"

shattered

"discouraged"

I am bringing it to pass

The idiom "to bring something to pass" means to cause a specific thing to happen. AT: "I am causing it to happen" or "I am causing these things to take place" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

They are plants in the field, green grass, the grass on the roof or in the field, before the east wind

This speaks of how weak and vulnerable the cities are before the Assryian army by comparing the cities to grass. AT: "The cities are as weak as the grass in the fields before your armies. They are as weak as the grass that grows on the roofs of houses and is scorched by the hot east wind" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

before the east wind

The east wind is hot and dry from the desert and plants die when it blows.

translationWords

Isaiah 37:28-29

General Information:

This continues Yahweh's message to the king of Assyria.

But I know your sitting down, your going out, your coming in

This refers to all activities of life. AT: "I know everything you do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

and your raging against me

The word "raging" can be expressed as a verb. AT: "how you rage against me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

your arrogance

Here the king's "arrogance" refers to his arrogant speech. AT: "your arrogant speech" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

your arrogance has reached my ears

This speaks of Yahweh hearing the king's speech as if the king's speech were something that traveled to his ear. AT: "I have heard you speaking arrogantly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will put my hook in your nose, and my bit in your mouth

A person uses a hook and bit to lead an animal around. This speaks of Yahweh controlling the king as if the king were an animal Yahweh controlled with a bit and hook. AT: "I will control you like a man controls his animal by place a hook in its nose and a bit in its mouth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will turn you back the way you came

This refers to causing the king to return to his own home country. The meaning of this can be made clear. AT: "I will force you to return to your own country" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 37:30

General Information:

This continues Yahweh's message to Hezekiah. (See: Isaiah 37:21)

sign for you

"sign for you, Hezekiah." Here "you" is singular and refers to Hezekiah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

you will eat ... you must plant

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

in the second year what grows

This describes what the people will eat. The words "you will eat" are understood from the previous phrase AT: "in the second year you will eat what grows" or "next year you will eat what grows" (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]])

what grows from that

"what grows wild from that" or "what grows wild"

in the third year

This refers to the year after the second year. AT: "the year after that" or "in the following year" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-ordinal/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 37:31-32

General Information:

This continues Yahweh's message to Hezekiah.

remnant

A "remnant" is a part of something that remains after the rest is gone. Here this refers to the people who are left in Judah.

the house of Judah

Here Judah's "house" refers to his descendants. AT: "the descendants of Judah" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

will again take root and bear fruit

This speaks of the people of Judah becoming prosperous as if they were plants that would root and bear fruit. AT: "will prosper like a plant that takes root and produces fruit" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

For from Jerusalem a remnant will come out; from Mount Zion survivors will come

These two phrases have the same meaning and are used together to emphasize the remnant of people who will survive. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

The zeal of Yahweh of hosts will do this

This speaks of Yahweh doing something because of his zeal as if his "zeal" were actually doing the action. AT: "Because of his zeal, Yahweh of hosts will do this" or "Yahweh of hosts will do this because of his zeal" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 37:33-34

He will not come ... He will not come

Here the Assyrian king refers to both him and his army. AT: "His army will not come ... They will not come" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

with shield

"with shields"

siege ramp

a large mound of dirt built against the wall of a city that better enables an army to attach the city

he came ... he will not enter

Here the Assyrian king refers to both him and his army. AT: "they came ... they will not enter" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

this is Yahweh's declaration

translationWords

Isaiah 37:35

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# Poetry

This chapter is written as a narrative, but the section including Hezekiah's prayer is written as poetry. The tone of this prayer shifts from sorrow to praise.

Isaiah 38:1-3

Set your house in order

This means to prepare your family and those in charge of your affairs so that they know what to do after you die. This can be written clearly. AT: "You should tell the people in your palace what you want them to do after you die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

call to mind

This idiom means to remember. AT: "remember" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

faithfully walked before you

This is an idiom. Here "walk" means to "live." The phrase means to live in a way the pleases Yahweh. AT: "faithfully lived before you" or "faithfully served you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

with my whole heart

Here the "heart" refers to the inner-being which represents a person's complete devotion. AT: "with all my inner being" or "with my complete devotion" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

what was good in your sight

The sight of Yahweh represents Yahweh's judgment or evaluation. AT: "what pleases you" or "what you consider to be good" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 38:4-6

the word of Yahweh came

This is an idiom that is used to introduce something that God told his prophets or his people. AT: "Yahweh spoke this message" or "Yahweh spoke these words" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

See

This is used to ask the listener to pay attention to what is said next. AT: "Listen"

fifteen years

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

the hand of the king of Assyria

Here the king's "hand" refers to his power. AT: "the power of the king of Assyria" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 38:7-8

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Hezekiah.

Look

Yahweh uses this word to draw the listener's attention to what is said next. AT: "Listen"

stairs of Ahaz

These stairs are referred to this way because they were built while Ahaz was king. You can make this information clear. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 38:9-11

that halfway through my life

"that before I have grown old." This refers to dying at middle age, before growing old.

I will go through the gates of Sheol

This speaks of dying as if Sheol were a kingdom that has gates that one enters. AT: "I will die and go to Sheol" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I am sent there for the rest of my years

This can be stated in active form. AT: "before I have lived all of my years I will go to the grave" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

in the land of the living

"The living" refers to people who are alive. AT: "in the land where people are alive" or "in this world where people are alive" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 38:12-13

boil

a painful area on the skin that is infected

translationWords

Isaiah 39

Isaiah 39:intro-0

Isaiah 39 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Pride

Although it is not said why it was sinful for Hezekiah to show the king of Babylon his riches, the sin was probably because of his pride. It can be viewed as bragging to another king about how rich and powerful he was without giving proper credit to Yahweh. Because of this sin, Yahweh punished him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

# Babylon

At this time, Babylon was not very powerful, but was little more than a city. In a short time, however, Babylon became a very powerful nation and conquered Assyria.

Isaiah 39:1-2

Marduk-Baladan ... Baladan

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

Hezekiah was pleased by these things

This can be made more explicit. AT: "When the king's messengers arrived, Hezekiah was pleased with what they brought to him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

showed the messengers his storehouse of valuable things

"he showed the messengers everything of value he had"

storehouse

a building where goods are kept

all that was found in his storehouses

This can be stated in active form. AT: "everything that was in his storehouses" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

There was nothing in his house, nor in all his kingdom, that Hezekiah did not show them

This is a slight exaggeration as Hezekiah showed them many things, but not everything. Also, this can be expressed positively. AT: "Hezekiah showed them almost everything in his house and in his kingdom" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublenegatives/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 39:3-4

They have seen everything in my house. There is nothing among my valuable things that I have not shown them

These two sentences mean the same thing and are used together to emphasize how much Hezekiah showed the men. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

everything in my house

This is a generalization, as Hezekiah showed them many things, but not necessarily everything in the palace. AT: "almost everything in my house" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

There is nothing among my valuable things that I have not shown them

This can be expressed positively. AT: "I showed them all the valuable things in my palace" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublenegatives/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 39:5-6

Yahweh of hosts

See how you translated this phrase in Isaiah 1:9.

the word

"the message"

Look

This word is used here to draw Hezekiah's attention to what is said next. AT: "Listen"

when everything in your palace ... will be carried to Babylon

This can be expressed positively. AT: "when the enemy army will take everything in your palace ... back to Babylon" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 39:7-8

General Information:

Isaiah continues to speak Yahweh's message to Hezekiah.

The sons born from you

"Your sons"

they will take them

"the Babylonians will take them"

translationWords

Isaiah 40

Isaiah 40:intro-0

Isaiah 40 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Rhetorical Questions

Yahweh uses many rhetorical questions in this chapter. These rhetorical questions help to prove the point he is making and convince the reader. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# "She has received double from Yahweh's hand for all her sins"

It is common in many languages to use the feminine "she" to refer to a nation, rather than the word "it," which is neither masculine or feminine. The translator should use the pronoun that aligns with the common usage in the target language. Therefore, it is acceptable to use "he," "she," or "it" in reference to a nation.

The phrase "received double" indicates that Jerusalem was punished more severely than the other nations. This is because they had the privilege of a special relationship to Yahweh and had more knowledge than the other nations.

# Reign of Yahweh

This chapter appears to prophesy about a time of restoration when the messiah will reign. It pictures a time of great peace and harmony in the world. The translator does not need to add an explanation, but should try to maintain the tense of the original text, as a future or uncompleted action. It does not appear that this prophecy was fulfilled in the days of Isaiah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/restore.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/fulfill.md]])

Isaiah 40:1-2

Comfort, comfort

The word "comfort" is repeated for emphasis.

says your God

Here "your" is plural and refers to those whom the prophet tells to comfort God's people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Speak tenderly to Jerusalem

The prophet speaks of Jerusalem as if it were a woman whom Yahweh has forgiven. As such, Jerusalem represents the people who live in that city. AT: Speak tenderly to the people of Jerusalem" (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-metonymy/01.md]])

proclaim to her ... her warfare ... her iniquity ... she has received ... her sins

These pronouns refer to Jerusalem but may be changed if "the people of Jerusalem" is adopted as a translation. AT: "proclaim to them ... their warfare ... their iniquity ... they have received ... their sins" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

her warfare

Possible meanings are that the word "warfare" refers 1) to military battle or 2) to forced labor.

her iniquity is pardoned

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh has pardoned her iniquity" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

from Yahweh's hand

Here the word "hand" represents Yahweh himself. AT: "from Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 40:3-5

A voice cries out

The word "voice" represents the person who cries out. AT: "Someone cries out" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

In the wilderness prepare the way of Yahweh; make straight in the Arabah a highway for our God

These two lines are parallel and mean basically the same thing. The people preparing themselves for Yahweh's help is spoken of as if they were to prepare roads for Yahweh to travel upon. (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-metaphor/01.md]])

Arabah

See how you translated this word in Isaiah 35:1.

Every valley will be lifted up, and every mountain and hill will be leveled

These phrases explain how the people are to prepare a highway for Yahweh. They can be stated in active form. AT: "Lift up every valley, and level every mountain and hill" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Every valley will be lifted up

Making the valleys level with the rest of the ground is spoken of as if it were lifting up the valleys. AT: "Every valley will be filled in" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

and the rugged land will be made level, and the rough places a plain

These phrases explain how the people are to prepare a highway for Yahweh. They can be stated in active form. AT: "make the rugged land level, and make the rough places into a plain" (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-ellipsis/01.md]])

the glory of Yahweh will be revealed

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will reveal his glory" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

for the mouth of Yahweh has spoken it

The word "mouth" represents Yahweh himself. AT: "for Yahweh has spoken it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 40:6-8

All flesh is grass

The word "flesh" refers to people. The speaker speaks of humans as if they are grass, because they both die quickly. AT: "All people are like grass" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

all their covenant faithfulness is like the flower of the field

The speaker compares the covenant faithfulness of people to flowers that bloom and then die quickly. The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be stated as "faithful." See how you translated "covenant faithfulness" in Isaiah 16:5. AT: "they quickly stop being faithful to the covenant, just like a flower of the field dies quickly" (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/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

covenant faithfulness

Possible meanings are 1) covenant faithfulness or 2) beauty.

when the breath of Yahweh blows on it

Possible meanings are 1) "when Yahweh blows his breath on it" or 2) "when Yahweh sends a wind to blow on it."

humanity is grass

The speaker speaks of humans as if they are grass, because they both die quickly. AT: "people die as quickly as grass" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the word of our God will stand forever

The speaker speaks of what God says lasting forever as if his word stands forever. AT: "the things that our God says will last forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 40:9-10

Go up on a high mountain, Zion, bearer of good news

The writer speaks of Zion as if it were a messenger who declares good news from a mountain top. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Go up on a high mountain

Messengers would often stand on elevated land, such as mountains, so that many people could hear what they proclaimed. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Zion

This refers to the people who live in Zion. AT: "you people of Zion" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Jerusalem. You who bring good news

The writer speaks of Jerusalem as if it were a messenger who declares good news. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

his strong arm rules for him

Here the word "arm" represents God's power. AT: "he rules with great power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

his reward is with him ... those he has rescued go before him

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The ones he rescued are his "reward." AT: "he is bringing those he rescued with him as his reward" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

my God is not concerned about my vindication

Possible meanings are 1) "my God is not concerned about others treating me unjustly" or 2) "my God is not concerned about treating me justly."

Have you not known? Have you not heard?

Isaiah uses these questions to emphasize that the people should know Yahweh's greatness. See how you translated these in Isaiah 40:21. AT: "You certainly know and have heard!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

the ends of the earth

The places on the earth that are very far away are spoken of as if they were the places where the earth ends. This phrase also forms a merism and refers to everywhere in between the ends. AT "the farthest places of the earth" or "the entire earth" (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 40:29-31

He gives strength to the tired; and to the weak he gives renewed energy

These two lines share similar meanings and emphasize that Yahweh strengthens those who have no strength. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

He gives strength

"Yahweh gives strength"

they will soar with wings like eagles

People receiving strength from Yahweh is spoken of as if the people were able to fly like eagles fly. An eagle is a bird often used as a symbol for strength and power. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

they will run and not be weary; they will walk and not faint

These two lines share similar meanings. People receiving strength from Yahweh is spoken of as if they were able to run and walk without tiring. (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-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 41

Isaiah 41:intro-0

Isaiah 41 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Mocking

Yahweh tells the people to present their best arguments in favor of honoring their idols. In this Yahweh challenges the people. Yahweh mocks or insults these false gods because they are not real and have no power. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/falsegod.md]])

Isaiah 41:1-2

Listen before me in silence

Here "me" refers to God.

you coastlands

This refers to the people who live on the islands and in the lands bordering or beyond the Mediterranean Sea. (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]])

renew their strength

See how you translated this phrase in Isaiah 40:31.

let them come near and speak; let us come near together to argue a dispute

These two phrases share similar meanings. The second explains the reason for the first. AT: "then let them come near so they may speak and reason with me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Who has stirred up one from the east, calling him in righteousness to his service?

Yahweh uses this question to emphasize that he is the one who caused this ruler from the east to be victorious. AT: "I am the one who called this powerful ruler from the east and put him in my good service." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

He hands nations over to him

"I give the nations over to him" or "The one who does these things hands nations over to him"

He turns them to dust with his sword, like windblown stubble with his bow

Turning them to dust and stubble is a metaphor or exaggeration for completely destroying everything the people of these nations have made. The armies of one from the east will conquer these nations and scatter the people easily. (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-simile/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 41:3-4

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the coastlands and the nations.

He pursues them and passes by safely

"The ruler from the east pursues the nations"

by a swift path that his feet scarcely touch

Possible meanings are 1) this is a metaphor in which he and his army moving very quickly is spoken of as if his feet barely touch the ground. AT: "by a path on which he moves with great speed" or 2) "feet" represents the whole person and the phrase indicates that this is a path that they have not traveled before. AT: "by a path that he has never traveled before" (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-synecdoche/01.md]])

Who has performed and accomplished these deeds?

Yahweh uses this question to emphasize that he is the one who has done these things. AT: "I have performed and accomplished these deeds." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Who has summoned the generations from the beginning?

Here the word "generations" represents all of human history, which Yahweh created and directed throughout history. The rhetorical question anticipates the answer, Yahweh. AT: "I have summoned the generations of humanity from the beginning." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

performed and accomplished

These two words mean basically the same thing and emphasize that Yahweh is the one who has done these things. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

the first, and with the last ones

Possible meanings are 1) that Yahweh existed before creation and will exist at the end of creation or 2) that Yahweh was before the first generation of humanity and will be at the last generation of humanity.

translationWords

Isaiah 41:5-7

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking.

The isles ... the ends of the earth

These phrases represent the people who live in those places. AT: "People who live on the isles ... people who live at the ends of the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

The isles

You can translate "isles" the same way you translated "coastlands" in Isaiah 41:1.

the ends of the earth

The places on the earth that are very far away are spoken of as if they were the places where the earth ends. AT "the farthest places of the earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

they approach and come

This doublet means that the people gather together. AT: "they come together" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

anvil

an iron block on which a person shapes metal with a hammer

saying of the welding

Here the word "welding" refers to the process of fastening the gold to the wood as the workers finish making the idol.

They fasten it with nails so it will not topple over.

Here "it" refers to the idol that they have made.

translationWords

Isaiah 41:8-9

this is Yahweh's declaration

Holy One of Israel

See how you translated this phrase in Isaiah 1:4.

Connecting Statement:

Yahweh continues to mock the idols and the people who worship them. (See: Isaiah 41:21-22)

do something good or evil

The words "good" and "evil" form a merism and represent anything. AT: "do anything at all" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

the one who chooses you

Here "you" is plural and refers to the idols. AT: "the person who chooses you idols" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 41:25-26

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking.

I have raised up one

Yahweh speaks of appointing a person as if he raised that person up. AT: "I have appointed one" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

from the sun's rising

This refers to the east, the direction from which the sun rises. AT: "from the east" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

him who calls on my name

Possible meanings are 1) that this person invokes Yahweh for his success or 2) that this person worships Yahweh.

he will trample the rulers

Conquering the rulers of other nations is spoken of as if it were trampling them under foot. AT: "he will conquer the rulers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

like a potter who is treading on the clay

Yahweh compares the way in which this person will trample the other rulers with the way that a potter tramples on clay to mix it with water. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Who announced this from the beginning, that we might know? Before this time, that we may say, "He is right"?

Yahweh uses these rhetorical questions to mock the idols that the people worship. The implied answers are 1) that the idols have not done these things and 2) that Yahweh is the one who has done these things. AT: "None of the idols announced this from the beginning, that we might know. And none of them announced this before time, that we may say, 'He is right.'" (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-ellipsis/01.md]])

Indeed none of them decreed it, yes, none heard you say anything

"Indeed, none of the idols decreed it. Indeed, no one heard you idols say anything"

translationWords

Isaiah 41:27-29

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking.

not one among them

"not one idol"

their cast metal figures are wind and emptiness

Yahweh speaks of the worthlessness of the idols as if the idols are wind and nothing at all. AT: "their idols are all worthless" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 42

Isaiah 42:intro-0

Isaiah 42 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Many scholars believe that there are four songs or poems which Isaiah records about the messiah. Isaiah 42:1-4 is the first of these songs. They are often called the "servant songs" because they focus on the messiah being a servant. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Servant

Israel is called Yahweh's servant. The messiah is also called the servant of Yahweh. It is likely that the two different usages of the word "servant" are intended to contrast with one another.

Causing blind people to see is spoken of as if it were opening their eyes. Also, Yahweh speaks of his servant delivering those who have been wrongly imprisoned as if his servant were restoring sight to blind people. AT: "to enable the blind to see" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

to release the prisoners from the dungeon, and from the house of confinement those who sit in darkness

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The verb may be supplied in the second phrase. AT: "to release the prisoners from the dungeon, and to release those who sit in darkness from the house in which they are confined" (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-ellipsis/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 42:8-9

nor my praise with carved idols

The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. AT: "nor will I share my praise with carved idols" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

my praise

This refers to the praise that Yahweh receives from people.

I will tell you

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

Who gave Jacob over to the robber, and Israel to the looters?

These two phrases mean the same thing. Isaiah uses this as a leading question in order to emphasize the answer that he will give in the next phrase. AT: "I will tell you who gave the people of Israel over to robbers and looters." (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-parallelism/01.md]])

Was it not Yahweh ... refused to obey?

Isaiah uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that Yahweh alone was responsible for Israel's situation, and to explain the reason that Yahweh did it. AT: "It was certainly Yahweh ... refused to obey." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

against whom we have sinned

Here the word "we" refers to the people of Israel and to Isaiah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]])

in whose ways they refused to walk, and whose law they refused to obey

The word "they" also refers to the people of Israel and to Isaiah. The two phrases mean the same thing. In the first, obeying Yahweh's laws is spoken of as if it were walking in the paths in which Yahweh commanded them to walk. (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-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 42:25

General Information:

Isaiah continues speaking.

Therefore he

"Therefore Yahweh"

he poured out on them his fierce anger

Isaiah speaks of Yahweh's anger as if it were a liquid that could be poured out. AT: "he showed them just how angry he was" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

on them

"against us." Here "them" refers to the people of Israel, but Isaiah still included himself as part of the people.

and the violence of war

The word "devastation" can be translated with a verb. AT: "by devastating them with war" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Its flames encircled them ... it consumed them

Isaiah speaks of Yahweh's fierce anger as if it were a fire that burned the people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

they did not take it to heart

Paying attention to something and learning from it is spoken of as if it were placing that thing on one's heart. AT: "they did not pay attention" or "they did not learn from it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 43

Isaiah 43:intro-0

Isaiah 43 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Exodus

This chapter pictures Judah's eventual return from exile in Babylon as a kind of second exodus. It was reminiscent of their exodus from Egypt.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# Exile

This chapter prophesies about the Jews return from Babylon, but the exile has yet to happen and is still more than a hundred years in the future. These events will show that Yahweh alone is God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Isaiah 43:1

he who created you, Jacob, and he who formed you, Israel

Both clauses mean the same thing. AT: "the one who created you, O people of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 43:2-3

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Israel.

When you pass through the waters ... the flames will not destroy you

Yahweh speaks of suffering and difficult experiences as if they are deep waters and fires through which the people walk. The words "waters" and "flames" form a merism and emphasize any difficult circumstance. (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]])

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you

These two statements mean basically the same thing and emphasize that the people will experience no harm because Yahweh is with them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

you will not be burned

This can be stated in active form. AT: "it will not burn you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

I have given Egypt as your ransom, Cush and Seba in exchange for you

These two phrases share similar meanings and emphasize that Yahweh will allow Israel's enemy to conquer these nations instead of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Seba

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

translationWords

Isaiah 43:4-5

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Since you are precious and special in my sight

The words "precious" and "special" mean basically the same thing and emphasize how much Yahweh values his people. AT: "Because you are very precious to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

therefore I will give people in exchange for you, and other peoples in exchange for your life

Both phrases mean the same thing. AT: "therefore I will let the enemy conquer other peoples instead of you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

I will bring your offspring from the east, and gather you from the west

The directions "east" and "west" form a merism and represent from every direction. AT: "I will bring you and your offspring from every direction" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Holy One of Israel

See how you translated this phrase in Isaiah 1:4.

I send to Babylon and lead them all down

The object of the verb "send" may be supplied in translation. AT: "I send an army to Babylon" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

lead them all down as fugitives

"lead all of the Babylonians down as fugitives"

fugitives

A fugitive is a person who runs away so that his enemy will not capture him.

translationWords

Isaiah 43:16-17

who opened a way ... like a burning wick

In these verses, Isaiah speaks of the events following the exodus from Egypt, when Yahweh divided the sea to let the Israelites walk through on dry ground but then drowned the Egyptian army. 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]])

They fell down together; they will never rise again

Dying is spoken of as if it were falling down to the ground. AT: "They all died together; they will never live again" (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-euphemism/01.md]])

they are extinguished, quenched like a burning wick

The people dying is spoken of as if they were burning candle wicks that someone has extinguished. This can be stated in active form. AT: "their lives have ended, like a person extinguishes the flame of a burning candle" (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 43:18-19

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Do not think about these former things, nor consider the things of long ago.

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize that they are not to worry about what happened in the past. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Look

This word is used to draw attention to the important information that follows. AT: "Listen" or "Pay attention"

do you not perceive it?

Yahweh uses a question to teach the people of Israel. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. AT: "surely you have noticed it." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/desert.md]]

This refers to the founder of Israel and may represent either Abraham or Jacob.

I will hand Jacob over to complete destruction

Here to "hand over" represents putting someone under the power of another. The noun "destruction" can be translated with a verbal phrase. AT: "I will cause the enemy to completely destroy Jacob" (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-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Israel to abusive humiliation

The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase, with which this phrase is parallel. The noun "humiliation" can be translated with a verbal phrase. AT: "I will allow the enemy to abuse and humiliate Israel" (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-ellipsis/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 44

Isaiah 44:intro-0

Isaiah 44 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's power

There is a prophecy in this chapter that gives the name of the king who will end the exile of the Jews from Babylon and rebuild the temple, even though the exile has not yet even occurred. This emphasizes that Yahweh knows the future, so the translator should translate the name of Cyrus given here. There are many other aspects of this chapter that show Yahweh's power as well. (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/temple.md]])

Isaiah 44:1-2

his Redeemer

"Israel's Redeemer"

Yahweh of hosts

See how you translated this phrase in Isaiah 1:9.

I am the first, and I am the last

This phrase emphasizes Yahweh's eternal nature. Possible meanings are 1) "I am the one who began all things, and I am the one who ends all things" or 2) "I am the one who has always lived, and I am the one who always will live." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 44:7

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking.

Who is like me? Let him announce

Yahweh uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that there is no one like him. This question can be translated as a statement. AT: "If anyone thinks he is like me, let him announce" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 44:8

be put to shame

This can be stated in active form. AT: "will be ashamed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Let them take their stand together

"Let them all come together before me"

they will cower

"they will be terrified." To "cower" is to bend over in fear.

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/shame.md]]

Isaiah 44:12

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking.

forming it

"forming the idol" or "creating the idol"

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/works.md]]

Isaiah 44:13

with a line

A string was used to outline the shape of the idol in the wood.

stylus

This is a sharp tool to scratch the wood so the craftsman can see where to cut.

a compass

This is a tool with two points that spread out used to help mark the wood to make the idol.

Here "their eyes" represents the whole person. AT: "for they are blind" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

their hearts cannot perceive

Here the people are represented by their "hearts." AT: "they cannot understand" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 44:19

Now should I make ... something disgusting to worship? Should I bow down to a block of wood?

Yahweh says that these people should be asking themselves these rhetorical questions. The questions anticipate negative answers and emphasize how foolish it would be for a person to do these things. These questions can be translated as statements. AT: "I should not now make ... something disgusting to worship. I should not bow down to a block of wood." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 44:20

It is as if he were eating ashes

Yahweh speaks of a person worshiping an idol as if that person were eating the burned ashes of the wood from which he made the idol. Just as eating ashes does not benefit a person, neither does worshiping an idol. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

his deceived heart misleads him

The heart represents the inner person. AT: "he misleads himself because he is deceived" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

He cannot rescue himself

"The person who worships idols cannot save himself"

translationWords

Isaiah 44:21-22

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking.

Jacob, and Israel

This refers to people descended from Jacob, Israel. AT: "you descendants of Israel" (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]])

you will not be forgotten by me

This can be stated in active form. AT: "I will not forget you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking.

He is my shepherd

Yahweh speaks of Cyrus ruling and protecting the people of Israel as if Cyrus is their shepherd. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

She will be rebuilt

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Let the people rebuild the city" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Let its foundations be laid

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Let the people lay its foundations" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 45

Isaiah 45:intro-0

Isaiah 45 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Potter and clay

The potter and the clay are important images used in Scripture. They emphasize the power and control of God. This chapter connects this to the truth that Yahweh is the creator of all, which it repeatedly emphasizes. He is even able to "anoint" or chose a future, pagan king. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/anoint.md]])

Isaiah 45:1

whose right hand I hold

Yahweh helping Cyrus and causing him to be successful is spoken of as if he were holding his right hand. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 45:2-3

translationWords

Isaiah 45:10

General Information:

Yahweh continues to scold those who argue with him about what he does.

Woe to him who says to a father, ... 'What are you giving birth to?'

Yahweh speaks of those who would argue him as if they were unborn children who argue with their own parents. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

What are you fathering? ... What are you giving birth to?

The unborn child asks these rhetorical questions to scold his parents for giving birth to him. These can be translated as statements. AT: "You should not be my father ... You should give birth to me." or "You are not fathering me correctly ... You are not giving birth to me correctly." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

not for price nor bribe

Here the words "price" and "bribe" share similar meanings. Cyrus will not do these things for financial gain. AT: "he will not do these things for money" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Yahweh of hosts

See how you translated this phrase in Isaiah 1:9.

translationWords

Isaiah 45:14-15

The earnings of Egypt and the merchandise of Cush with the Sabeans, men of tall stature, will be brought to you

This can be stated in active form. AT: "The people of Egypt, Cush, and the tall people of Seba, will bring to you their earnings and their merchandise" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

The earnings of Egypt

"The profits of Egypt"

Sabeans

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

to you

Here "you" refers to the people of Jerusalem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 45:16-17

They will all be ashamed and disgraced together; those who carve idols will walk in humiliation

These two lines share similar meanings, with the second clarifying the subject of the first. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

They will all be ashamed and disgraced together

The words "ashamed" and "disgraced" mean basically the same thing and emphasize the intensity of shame. This can be stated in active form. AT: "Their idols will leave them all completely ashamed" (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]])

will walk in humiliation

Living in continual humiliation is spoken of as if it were walking in humiliation. AT: "will be continually humiliated" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Israel will be saved by Yahweh

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will save the people of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

you will never again be ashamed or humiliated

Here "you" refers to the people of Israel. The words "ashamed" and "humiliated" mean basically the same thing. This can be stated in active form. AT: "No one will ever humiliate you again" (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-doublet/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 45:18

not as a waste

"not to be empty." Here the word "waste" refers to an empty, barren place.

but designed it to be inhabited

This can be stated in active form. AT: "but he designed it so people could live on it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 45:19

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking.

translationWords

Isaiah 45:20

translationWords

Isaiah 45:24-25

They will say

All the people on the earth are speaking.

In Yahweh all the descendants of Israel will be justified

Here the word "justified" does not refer to Yahweh forgiving their sins, but to proving to the nations that Israel was right to worship him. This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will justify all the descendants of Israel" or "Yahweh will vindicate all the descendants of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 46

Isaiah 46:intro-0

Isaiah 46 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

# Yahweh and the false gods

This chapter is intended to compare Yahweh with various false Gods whom the Israelites worship. There really is no comparison at all because Yahweh alone is God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/falsegod.md]])

Isaiah 46:1-2

Bel bows down, Nebo stoops; their idols ... for weary animals

Isaiah speaks of people placing the idols of Bel and Nebo into a cart for animals to transport as if these gods were made to "bow down" and "stoop." These are both postures of humiliation. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Bel ... Nebo

These were the two primary gods whom the Babylonians worshiped. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

their idols

the idols that represented Bel and Nebo

they cannot rescue the images

"Bel and Nebo cannot rescue their images"

they themselves have gone off into captivity

Isaiah speaks of people carrying off these idols as if the false gods whom they represent are being carried off to captivity. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 46:3-4

Listen to me

Here "me" refers to Yahweh.

who have been carried by me from before your birth, carried from the womb

Yahweh speaks of the nation of Israel as if it were a person, and of the nation's beginning as if it were its birth. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

who have been carried by me

Yahweh speaks of helping and rescuing the people of Israel as if he were carrying them. This can be stated in active form. AT: "whom I have carried" (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]])

Even to your old age I am he, and until your hair is gray I will carry you

Yahweh speaks of the nation of Israel becoming very old as if it were an old man with gray hair. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 46:5-6

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Israel.

To whom will you compare me? Who do you think I resemble, so that we may be compared?

Yahweh uses questions to emphasize that there is no one like him. AT: "There is no one to whom you can compare me. I resemble no one, so that we might be compared." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

so that we may be compared

This can be stated in active form. AT: "so that you may compare us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 46:7

They lift it

"They" refers to the people who make idols and "it" refers to the idol that they have created.

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]]

Isaiah 46:8-9

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to his people.

translationWords

Isaiah 46:10-11

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to his people.

I announce the end from the beginning, and beforehand what has not yet happened

This basically repeats the same idea for emphasis. The verb from the first phrase may be supplied for the second. AT: "I announce the end from the beginning, and I announce beforehand what has not yet happened" (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-ellipsis/01.md]])

I call a bird of prey from the east

Yahweh speaks of Cyrus as if he were "a bird of prey." As a bird swiftly captures its prey, so Cyrus will swiftly accomplish Yahweh's purpose to conquer the nations. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I have spoken; I will also accomplish it; I have purposed, I will also do it.

This repeats the same idea for emphasis. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Isaiah 46:12-13

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Israel.

who are far from doing what is right

Yahweh speaks of the people stubbornly doing wrong as if they were physically far away from doing the right thing. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my salvation does not wait

Yahweh speaks of saving his people soon as if his salvation were a person who does not wait to act. The abstract noun "salvation" can be translated with a verb. AT: "I will not wait to save you" (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-abstractnouns/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 47

Isaiah 47:intro-0

Isaiah 47 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Babylon

This chapter prophesied the destruction of Babylon. At the time that the prophesy was written, Assyria was still in power and Babylon had not yet become a world power. The Chaldeans were not yet a powerful nation either. The people of Judah would become servants or slaves of Babylon and be forced to work very hard. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]])

Isaiah 47:1-2

General Information:

In this chapter, Yahweh speaks to Babylon about her downfall as if she were a queen who is humiliated. (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]])

sit in the dust, virgin daughter of Babylon; sit on the ground ... daughter of the Chaldeans.

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Sitting in the dust was a sign of humiliation. (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/translate-symaction/01.md]])

virgin daughter of Babylon ... daughter of the Chaldeans

Both of these phrases refer to the city, Babylon, which is spoken of as if it were a daughter. That the city is a "daughter" indicates how people think fondly of her. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

without a throne

Here "throne" refers to the power to rule. AT: "without the power to rule" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

You will no longer be called dainty and delicate

This can be stated in active form. AT: "People will no longer call you dainty and delicate" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

dainty and delicate

These two words share similar meanings. They describe one who is beautiful and lives in luxury. AT: "very beautiful" or "very luxurious" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

millstone

a large stone used to grind grain

translationWords

Isaiah 47:3-5

Connecting Statement:

Yahweh continues to speak to Babylon about her downfall as if she were a queen who is humiliated. (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]])

Your nakedness will be uncovered

This can be stated in active form. AT: "You will be naked" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

your shame will be seen

Here the word "shame" is a euphemism for one's private parts. This can be translated in active form. AT: "people will see your shame" or "people will see your private parts" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Our Redeemer

"Our" refers to Isaiah and the people of Israel. See how you translated "Redeemer" in Isaiah 41:14. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]])

Yahweh of hosts

See how you translated this phrase in Isaiah 1:24.

Holy One of Israel

See how you translated this phrase in Isaiah 5:16.

daughter of the Chaldeans

This phrase refers to the city, Babylon, which is spoken of as if it were a daughter. That the city is a "daughter" indicates how the Chaldeans think fondly of her. See how you translated this phrase in Isaiah 47:1.

for you will no longer be called

This can be stated in active form. AT: "for people will no longer call you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

queen of kingdoms

Yahweh speaks of Babylon being the capital city of the Babylonian empire as if it were a queen who ruled many kingdoms. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 47:6-7

Connecting Statement:

I was angry

Here "I" refers to Yahweh.

I defiled my heritage

Yahweh speaks of the people of Israel being his special possession as if they were his heritage or inheritance. AT: "I defiled my people, who are my special possession" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

gave them over into your hand

Here the word "hand" represents Babylon's power or control. AT: "I put them under your power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

you placed a very heavy yoke on the old people

Yahweh speaks of the Babylonians oppressing the old people as if they had treated the old people like cattle and put heavy yokes on their necks. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will rule forever as sovereign queen

Babylon speaks of permanently ruling over many nations as if she were a queen who would rule forever. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

You did not take these things to heart

Yahweh speaks of thinking carefully about something as if it were placing that thing on one's heart. AT: "You did not consider these things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 47:8-9

Connecting Statement:

you who love pleasure

"you luxurious one." This refers to the many luxuries that Babylon enjoyed.

sit securely

This refers to Babylon's false sense of security in thinking that she will never lose her position of wealth and honor. AT: "who think you are safe" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

I will never sit as a widow ... loss of children

Babylon believing that other nations will never be able to conquer her is spoken of as if she will never become a widow or never have children die. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will never sit as a widow

"I will never become a widow"

in a moment in one day

"suddenly at the same time"

translationWords

Isaiah 47:10-11

Connecting Statement:

you say in your heart

Here the word "heart" refers to the inner person. AT: "you say to yourself" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Disaster will overcome you

Yahweh speaks of disaster as if it were a person who captures Babylon. AT: "You will experience disaster" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Destruction will fall on you

Yahweh speaks Babylon being destroyed as if destruction were an object that falls upon the city. AT: "You will experience destruction" or "Others will destroy you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Calamity will strike you

Yahweh speaks of Babylon experiencing calamity as if calamity were a person who strikes Babylon. AT: "You will experience calamity" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 47:12-13

Connecting Statement:

Persist in casting your spells ... perhaps you will scare away disaster

Yahweh mocks Babylon by telling her to continue to practice her sorcery to keep bad things away, but he knows that it will not help her. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-irony/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 47:14-15

Connecting Statement:

they will become like stubble. The fire will burn them up

Yahweh compares the magicians and sorcerers to straw that burns quickly in a fire. This means that Yahweh will destroy them as easily as fire burns stubble, and so they are powerless to save Babylon. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

the hand of the flame

Here the word "hand" represents strength. AT: "the power of the flame" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

There are no coals to warm them and no fire for them to sit by

Yahweh emphasizes that this is a destructive fire by stating that it is not one that people will use to warm themselves.

translationWords

Isaiah 48

Isaiah 48:intro-0

Isaiah 48 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

# Yahweh and the false gods

This chapter is set up to compare Yahweh with various false Gods whom the Israelites worship. There really is no comparison between the two because Yahweh alone is God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/falsegod.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Exile

Yahweh explains purpose behind the Jews exile in Babylon, even though it is still in the future. This emphasizes that that Yahweh is much more powerful than the false gods.

Isaiah 48:1-2

my hand laid the foundation of the earth, and my right hand spread out the heavens

Here "hand" refers to Yahweh. AT: "I laid the foundation of the earth, and I spread out the heavens" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

the foundation of the earth

spread out the heavens

Yahweh speaks of creating the heavens as if they were fabric which Yahweh stretched out. See how you translated a similar phrase in Isaiah 42:5. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

when I call to them, they stand up together

Standing up when Yahweh calls is a metaphor for being ready to obey him. Yahweh speaks of the earth and the heavens as if they were able to hear him and obey 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]])

their name

Here the word "name" refers to the descendants who would carry on the name of Israel. AT: "they" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

cut off nor blotted out

These two expressions in this context refer to destroying the people. AT: "destroyed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 48:20

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Israel.

to the ends of the earth

The places on the earth that are very far away are spoken of as if they were the places where the earth ends. This phrase also forms a merism and refers to everywhere in between the ends. AT: "to all the farthest places of the earth" or "to the entire earth" (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]])

his servant Jacob

This refers to the descendants of Jacob. AT: "the people of Israel, his servants" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 48:21-22

They did not thirst ... the waters gushed out

This refers to an event in the history of the people of Israel when Yahweh took care of them while they lived in the desert after escaping Egypt.

translationWords

Isaiah 49

Isaiah 49:intro-0

Isaiah 49 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Many scholars believe that there are four songs or poems which Isaiah records about the messiah. Isaiah 49:1-6 is the second of these songs. They are often called the "servant songs" because they focus on the messiah being a servant. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# A day of salvation

It is unclear if this is a reference to the gospel proclaimed by the messiah or to the day of restoration of all things. The translator should not try to explain its reference to the reader. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/salvation.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/goodnews.md]], and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/restore.md]])

Isaiah 49:1-2

Listen to me

Here "me" refers to Yahweh's servant.

you coastlands

This refers to the people who live on the coastlands. AT: "you who live on the coastlands" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

He has made my mouth like a sharp sword

Here the word "mouth" represents the words that he speaks. His words are compared to a sharp sword to emphasize that they will be effective. AT: "He has made my words as effective as a sharp sword" (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-simile/01.md]])

he hid me in the shadow of his hand

Yahweh protecting his servant and keeping his purpose secret is spoken of as if Yahweh's hand cast a shadow over him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he has made me into a polished arrow; in his quiver he has hidden me

Yahweh's servant being able to carry out Yahweh's purposes effectively is spoken of as if the servant were a sharp, new arrow. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in his quiver he has hidden me

Yahweh protecting his servant and keeping his purpose secret is spoken of as if Yahweh kept him hidden in a quiver. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

quiver

a case used to carry arrows

translationWords

Isaiah 49:3-4

General Information:

Yahweh's servant continues speaking.

He said

"Yahweh said"

You are my servant, Israel

"You are my servant, whom I call Israel"

translationWords

Isaiah 49:5-6

General Information:

Yahweh's servant continues speaking.

that Israel would be gathered to him

This part of the sentence means the same as the part before it. This can be stated in active form. AT: "to bring the people of Israel back to himself" (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-parallelism/01.md]])

I am honored in the eyes of Yahweh

The eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh has honored me" (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]])

my God has become my strength

God giving the servant strength is spoken of as if God himself were his strength. AT: "my God has given me strength" or "my God has strengthened me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will make you a light to the Gentiles

The servant bringing Yahweh's message to the Gentiles and helping them to understand it is spoken of as if Yahweh made the servant a light that shines among the Gentiles. See how you translated a similar phrase in Isaiah 42:6. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

to the ends of the earth

The places on the earth that are very far away are spoken of as if they were the places where the earth ends. This phrase also forms a merism and refers to everywhere in between the ends. AT "to all the farthest places of the earth" or "to the entire earth" (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 49:7

Redeemer

See how you translated this word in Isaiah 41:14.

to the one whose life is despised, hated by the nations, and a slave of rulers

Here the word "life" represents the person. This can be stated in active form. AT: "to the one whom people despised, whom the nations hated and held as slaves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Holy One of Israel

See how you translated this phrase in Isaiah 1:4.

translationWords

Isaiah 49:8

At a time I decide to show my favor I will answer you, and in a day of salvation I will help you

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

I will answer you

Here "you" refers to Yahweh's servant.

in a day of salvation

The word "salvation" can be translated as a verb. AT: "when the time comes for me to save you" (See:[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

give you as a covenant for the people

Here the word "covenant" is a metonym for the one who establishes or mediates a covenant. See how you translated a similar phrase in Isaiah 42:6. AT: "make you be the mediator of a covenant with the people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

to rebuild the land

Here the word "land" represents the cities in the land that had been destroyed. AT: "to rebuild the ruined places in the land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

to reassign the desolate inheritance

Yahweh speaks of the land as if it were an inheritance that the people of Israel received as a permanent possession. It is implied that the servant is to reassign the land to the people of Israel. AT: "to reassign the desolate land to the people of Israel as their inheritance" (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 49:9

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to his servant.

They will graze along the roads, and on all the bare slopes will be their pasture

Yahweh speaks of the people living freely and prosperously as if they were sheep that had plenty of pasture in which to graze. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/prison.md]]

Isaiah 49:10-11

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking.

They will not

Here "they" refers to God's people.

nor will the heat or sun beat on them

Here the word "heat" describes the word "sun." The people suffering from the sun's heat is spoken of as if the heat struck them. AT: "nor will they suffer from the sun's heat" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hendiadys/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

for he who has mercy on them ... he will guide them

Yahweh speaks of himself in the third person. He speaks of protecting the people and caring for them as if he were their shepherd. AT: "I, the one who has mercy on them ... I will guide them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will make all my mountains into a road, and make my highways level

Yahweh speaks of guiding his people safely and removing obstacles from their path as if he turned mountains into roads and level highways. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/mercy.md]]

Isaiah 49:12-13

the land of Sinim

The location of this place is uncertain, but it may refer to a region in the southern part of Egypt. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Sing, heavens, and be joyful, earth; break into singing, you mountains!

Isaiah turns his attention from the people of Israel and speaks to the heavens, earth, and mountains as if they were people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-apostrophe/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 49:14-15

But Zion said

The word "Zion" is another name for Jerusalem. Isaiah speaks of the city as if it were a woman who complains that Yahweh has forgotten her. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Can a woman forget her baby, nursing at her breast, so she does not have compassion on the son she has borne?

Yahweh uses a question to help his people understand that he will never forget about them or stop caring for them. AT: "A woman would not forget her nursing baby or stop caring for the son she bore." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 49:16-18

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to Zion. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

I have inscribed your name on my palms

Yahweh speaks of his unwavering devotion to Zion as if he had written her name on the palms of his hands. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

your walls are continually before me

Yahweh speaks of always thinking about Zion as if her walls were always before him. The word "walls" is a metonym for the city. AT: "I am continually thinking about your walls" or "I am always thinking about 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-metonymy/01.md]])

Your children are hurrying back

Yahweh speaks of the people who are returning to live in Jerusalem as if they were the city's children. AT: "Your inhabitants are hurrying back" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

As surely as I live

This is an oath formula that Yahweh uses to guarantee the truth of what he is saying.

this is Yahweh's declaration

you will surely wear them like jewelry, and you will put them on like a bride

Yahweh speaks of the inhabitants of Zion as if they were jewelry that the city wears to show her beauty and joy. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you will put them on like a bride

The last part of the phrase can be clarified from the previous line. AT: "you will put them on, like a bride wears jewelry" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 49:19-20

I will feed your oppressors with their own flesh

Possible meanings are 1) the oppressors will be so hungry that they will eat the flesh of their friends who have died. AT: "I will cause your oppressors to eat their own flesh" or 2) Yahweh speaks of the oppressors fighting against and destroying themselves as if they were eating themselves. AT: "I will cause your oppressors to destroy themselves, as if they were eating their own flesh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

they will get drunk on their own blood, as if it were wine

Possible meanings are 1) the oppressors will be so thirsty that they drink the blood of their friends who have died. AT: "they will drink their friends' blood and be like weak people who are drunk on wine" or 2) Yahweh speaks of the oppressors fighting against and destroying themselves as if they were drinking their own blood. AT: "they will shed so much of their friends' blood that it will be as though they were getting drunk with wine" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 50

Isaiah 50:intro-0

Isaiah 50 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Many scholars believe that there are four songs or poems which Isaiah records about the messiah. Isaiah 50:4-9 is the third of these songs. They are often called the "servant songs" because they focus on the messiah being a servant. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Rhetorical Questions

There are many rhetorical questions in this chapter. These questions prove Yahweh's point and are intended to convince the readers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Isaiah 50:1

Where is the certificate of divorce with which I divorced your mother?

Yahweh speaks of Zion as if the city were the mother of the people who lived there and of sending the people into exile as if he were divorcing their mother. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Where is the certificate of divorce with which I divorced your mother?

Yahweh asks this rhetorical question so that the people would produce "the certificate of divorce," which would provide the reason Yahweh sent them into exile. AT: "Show me the certificate of divorce with which I divorced your mother." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

To which of my creditors did I sell you?

Yahweh speaks of sending the people into exile as if he were selling them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

To which of my creditors did I sell you?

Yahweh asks this question to emphasize that he did not sell them because he owed a debt to a creditor. It is implied that this is what the people had thought. AT: "I did not sell you because I owed a debt to someone." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

you were sold because of your sins, and because of your rebellion, your mother was sent away

Yahweh gives the reason for sending the people into exile, which he speaks of as if he had sold them and divorced their mother. This can be stated in active form. AT: "I sold you because of your sins, and I divorced your mother because of your rebellion" (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 50:2-3

translationWords

Isaiah 50:8-9

General Information:

Yahweh's servant continues speaking.

Who will oppose me? Let us stand ... Who is my accuser? Let him come

The servant uses these questions to emphasize that there is no one who can legitimately accuse him of wrong. AT: "If anyone would oppose me, let us stand ... If anyone would accuse me, let him come" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Who will declare me guilty?

The servant uses this question to assert that no one can declare him guilty. AT: "There is no one who can declare me guilty." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

they will all wear out like a garment; the moth will eat them up

There being no one left to accuse the servant of being guilty is spoken of as if the accusers were garments that wear thin and are eaten by moths. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 50:10

General Information:

The servant continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Who among you fears Yahweh? Who obeys the voice of his servant? Who walks in deep darkness without light? He should ... his God.

The servant uses these questions to identify those to whom he is speaking. AT: "If someone among you fears Yahweh and obeys the voice of his servant, but he walks in deep darkness without light, then he should ... his God." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

obeys the voice of his servant

Here the word "voice" represents what the servant says. AT: "obeys his servant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

walks in deep darkness without light

The servant speaks of people who are suffering and feel helpless as if they were walking in a very dark place. AT: "is suffering and feels helpless" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

trust in the name of Yahweh and lean on his God

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Here the word "name" represents Yahweh himself. Trusting in God is spoken of as if it were leaning on him. AT: "trust in Yahweh, his God" (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]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 50:11

all you who light fires ... flames that you have ignited

This continues the metaphor from the previous verse of people who walk in darkness. Here people who try to live according to their own wisdom instead of trusting in Yahweh are spoken of as if they lit their own fires and carried about torches in order to see in the dark. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

You will lie down in a place of pain

Here to "lie down" refers to dying. Dying painfully is spoken of as if it were lying down in a place where they will experience pain. AT: "You will die with great suffering" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 51

Isaiah 51:intro-0

Isaiah 51 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Rhetorical Questions

# Awake

In this chapter the author uses sleeping as a metaphor for sin. The people are told to "awake," meaning they are to repent and return to Yahweh. (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/repent.md]])

Isaiah 51:1

Listen to me

Here the word "me" refers to Yahweh.

look at the rock ... and to the quarry

Looking at something represents thinking about it. AT: "think about the rock ... and the quarry" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the rock from which you were chiseled and to the quarry from which you were cut

God speaks of the nation of Israel as if it were a building made of stones and as if their ancestors were a rock or quarry from which God cut them. This can be stated clearly. AT: "your ancestors, who are like a rock from which you were chiseled and a quarry from which you were cut" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the rock from which you were chiseled

This can be stated in active form. AT: "the rock from which I chiseled you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

chiseled

"cut with a chisel" or "cut"

the quarry from which you were cut

This can be stated in active form. AT: "the quarry from which I cut you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 51:2

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Abraham, your father

God speaks of their ancestor as if he were their father. AT: "Abraham, your forefather" or "Abraham, your ancestor" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Sarah, who bore you

God speaks of Abraham's wife as if she were their mother and had given birth to them. AT: "Abraham's wife, Sarah, of whom you are all descendants" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

when he was a lone individual

This means when he did not have any children yet. This can be stated clearly. AT: "when he had no children" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

made him many

God speaks of Abraham's descendants being many as if Abraham were many. AT: "made his descendants many" or "made him have many descendants" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 51:3

Yahweh will comfort Zion

The city of Zion, which is also called Jerusalem, here represents the people of Zion. AT: "Yahweh will comfort the people of Zion" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

he will comfort all her waste places

Here "waste places" represents the people who live in those desolate areas. AT: "he will comfort the people who live in all her waste places" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

her waste places ... her wilderness ... her desert plains

The word "her" refers to Zion. Cities are often spoken of as if they were women. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

waste places

places that have been destroyed

her wilderness he made like Eden, and her desert plains ... like the garden of Yahweh

These phrases mean that God will make the empty places in Israel beautiful. In prophecy, events that will happen in the future are often described as being in the past. This emphasizes that they will certainly happen. AT: "he will make her wilderness like Eden and her desert plains ... like the garden of Yahweh (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-pastforfuture/01.md]])

joy and gladness will be found in her

Joy and gladness mean the same thing. Being found there represents being there. AT: "there will be joy and gladness in Zion again" (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 51:4-5

General Information:

Yahweh speaks to the people of Israel.

Be attentive to me ... listen to me

These two phrases mean the same thing. Together they strengthen the command to listen. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

I will make my justice to be a light for the nations

Here God's justice represents his law, and a light represents knowledge of what is right. This means the people of the nations will understand and obey God's law. AT: "my law will teach the nations what is right" or "the nations will know my law" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

My righteousness is near

The idea of "near" represents "soon." God's righteousness being near represents him soon showing his righteousness. He will do this this by fulfilling his promises and saving people. AT: "I will soon show my righteousness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my salvation will go out

God speaks of saving people as if his salvation were a thing that could go out to them. AT: "I will save people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my arm will judge the nations

Here God's arm represents his power, and judging represents ruling. AT: "I will rule the nations with my power" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the coastlands

This refers to the people who live on the coasts of distant lands across the sea. AT: "the people who live on the coastlands" or "the people who live in the lands across the sea" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

for my arm they will eagerly wait

Here God's arm represents what he will do. Here it refers to him saving people. AT: "they will eagerly wait for me to do something" or "they will eagerly wait for me to save them" (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]])

General Information:

This is very similar to Isaiah 35:10.

The ransomed of Yahweh

with gladness forever on their heads

This uses a person's head to mean the person as a whole. AT: "they will be glad forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

gladness and joy ... sorrow and mourning

The words "gladness" and "joy" mean basically the same thing, as do "sorrow" and "mourning." Together they emphasize the intensity of these emotions. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

gladness and joy will overtake them

This speaks of the people being overwhelmed by gladness and joy by giving these emotions the human quality of being able to overtake someone. AT: "they will be overwhelmed by joy and gladness" or "they will be extremely glad and joyful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

sorrow and mourning will flee away

This speaks of the people no longer being sorrowful and mourning by speaking of these emotions as if they could run away. AT: "they will no longer be sorrowful and mourning" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 51:12

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Israel.

I, I, am he

The word "I" is repeated for emphasis. If this is unnatural in your language, the repetition does not need to be used. AT: "I am he"

Why are you afraid of men ... like grass?

This rhetorical question emphasizes that people who have the Lord's protection should not be afraid of human beings. This can be written as a statement. AT: "Do not be afraid of men ... like grass." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

who are made like grass

This phrase compares men to grass to emphasize that their lives are short and that they die quickly. AT: "who live and die quickly like grass" or "who will wither and disappear like grass" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

who are made like

This can be stated in active form. AT: "who are like" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 51:13

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Why have you forgotten Yahweh ... earth?

Yahweh uses a question to emphasize that they should not forget Yahweh. This may be written as a statement. AT: "You should not have forgotten Yahweh ... earth." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Maker

See how you translated this name for Yahweh in Isaiah 17:7.

who stretched out the heavens

"who spread out the sky." This speaks of Yahweh having created the heavens as if he had stretched them out in the same way one would stretch out a large garment. AT: "who stretched out the heavens like a garment" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the foundations of the earth

The word "foundation" normally refers to a stone structure that gives support to a building from underneath. Here it describes a similar structure that was thought to support and hold the earth in place. See how you translated this phrase in Isaiah 24:18.

the hot fury of the oppressor when he decides to destroy

"the oppressor's hot fury when he decides to cause destruction"

hot fury

Here the word "hot" means "strong" or "great." AT: "great fury" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Where is the fury of the oppressor?

Yahweh uses a question to emphasize that the people should not fear those who want to oppress them. Their oppressors are no longer a threat to them. This may be written as a statement. AT: "The fury of the oppressor is not a threat!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 51:14-15

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Israel.

The one who is bent down

This refers to the people of Israel who are slaves of the Babylonians. This phrase describes how they work. AT: "The slave" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the pit

This refers to Sheol. AT: "the pit of Sheol" or "the grave" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

nor will he lack bread

Here "bread" represents food in general. This can be written in positive form. AT: "nor will he be without food" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

who churns up the sea

This speaks of Yahweh causing the sea to move and the waves to rise and fall as if he were stirring the sea as one stirs the contents of a bowl with a large spoon. AT: "who causes the sea to churn" or "who makes the sea move up and down" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

its waves roar

A roar is a powerful, loud sound made by something that is alive, such as a bear or lion. Here the waves are described as making this powerful sound. AT: "its waves crash loudly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Yahweh of hosts

See how you translated this name for Yahweh in Isaiah 1:9.

translationWords

Isaiah 51:16

I have placed my words in your mouth

This speaks of Yahweh telling Isaiah what to say as if his words were a physical object Yahweh had placed in Isaiah's mouth. AT: "I have told you what to say" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I have covered you in the shadow of my hand

Yahweh's "hand" refers to his power. This speaks of Yahweh protecting Isaiah as if his hand were covering him to protect him. AT: "my power has kept you safe" or "I have protected you and kept you safe" (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]])

that I may plant the heavens

The word "plant" means to establish something in the ground. Here Yahweh firmly establishing the heavens is spoken of as if the heavens were a tent that he would spread out and firmly set it in place with tent pegs. AT: "that I may establish the heavens" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

lay the foundations of the earth

The word "foundation" normally refers to a stone structure that gives support to a building from underneath. Here it describes a similar structure that was thought to support and hold the earth in place. See how you translated a similar phrase in Isaiah 24:18.

translationWords

Isaiah 51:17-18

Awake, awake, stand up, Jerusalem

Here "Jerusalem" represents the people who live there. Yahweh speaks to the people of Jerusalem as if they were there listening to him. AT: "Awake, awake, stand up, you people of Jerusalem" (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]])

Awake, awake, stand up

"Be alert and arise." The repetition of the word "awake" emphasizes the urgency of the call to arouse the people of Israel. It is not used to wake them from literal sleep.

you who have drunk out of the hand of Yahweh ... from the cup of staggering

Yahweh speaks of having punished his people as if he had forced them to drink from a bowl that was filled with his anger. And when they drank from the bowl of his anger, they staggered as if they had drank a lot of wine. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

down to the dregs

The word "dregs" means the solid pieces at the very bottom of a container that has a liquid in it. AT: "down to the very bottom"

out of the hand of Yahweh

Here Yahweh is referred to by his hand to emphasize that he is the one who gave the bowl to his people. AT: "that he gave to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

from the cup of staggering

"from the cup that caused you to stagger as if you were drunk on wine"

staggering

not walking straight, or stumbling while walking

There is no one ... to guide her; there is no one ... to take her by the hand

These two clauses have the same meaning and can be combined. This speaks of Jerusalem being helpless as if the city were a drunk woman without a son to help her walk safely. AT: "You have no one to help you! You are like a drunk old woman without a son to take her by the hand and guide her" (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-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 51:19-20

General Information:

Isaiah continues speaking to the people of Israel.

who will grieve with you? ... Who will comfort you?

Isaiah uses questions to emphasize that now there is no one to weep with them or comfort them. These questions may be written as statements. AT: "but there is no one to grieve with you ... There is no one to comfort you." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

These two troubles

The two troubles refer to the following two phrases: "desolation and destruction" and "the famine and the sword."

desolation and destruction

These words have similar meanings and emphasize the destruction of the land caused by the opposing army. AT: "your enemies have left your city empty and ruined" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

the famine and the sword

The words "famine" and "sword" describe the trouble that will come upon the people. The "sword" refers to "war." AT: "many of you have died from hunger and war" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

they lie at every street corner

This is generalization. Many children will lie in the street, but not necessarily on every street corner. AT: "they lie on the street" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

like an antelope in a net

This speaks of the children being exhausted and helpless as if they were an antelope caught in a trap. AT: "they are helpless, like an antelope caught in a net" or "as helpless as a trapped antelope" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

antelope

This is an animal, similar to a deer, that has horns and runs very fast. AT: "deer" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

they are filled with the anger of Yahweh, the rebuke of your God

The "anger of Yahweh" refers to Yahweh punishing his people because of his anger against them. This speaks of the people having been severely punished as if they had become full of Yahweh's anger. Also, the word "rebuke" can be written as a verb. AT: "they have been severely punished by Yahweh because he was angry with them and rebuked 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-abstractnouns/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 51:21-22

General Information:

Isaiah continues speaking to the people of Israel.

you oppressed one and drunken one

Yahweh uses the word "one" here to refer to all of the oppressed people. AT: "you oppressed people and drunken people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

drunken one, but not drunk with wine

This speaks of the people acting drunk because they are suffering as if they have become drunk from being forced to drink the bowl of Yahweh's anger. AT: "you who are drunk from drinking the wine of the bowl of Yahweh's anger" or "you who act drunk, because you have suffered greatly" (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]])

See, I have taken the cup of staggering from your hand—the bowl, which is the cup of my anger—so that

This speaks of Yahweh no longer being angry with his people as if his anger were the contents of a cup that he was taking away from them. AT: "I will no longer be angry with you. See, it is like I have taken away from you the cup that made you stagger, that is, the cup that was full of my anger, so that" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

See

This is used to draw the listeners' attention to what is said next. AT: "Listen"

the cup of staggering

The word "cup" refers to what is in the cup. See how you translated a similar phrase in Isaiah 51:17. AT: "the cup of the wine that makes people stagger" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the bowl, which is the cup of my anger

Yahweh speaks of having punished people as if he had forced them to drink from a bowl that was filled with his anger. See how you translated a similar phrase in Isaiah 51:17. AT: "the bowl which is filled with my anger" or "the cup which is filled with my anger" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 51:23

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Israel.

I will put it into the hand of your tormentors

This speaks of Yahweh punishing their enemies as if he were going to force them to drink from the cup filled with his anger. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I will put it into the hand of your tormentors

It is implied that by putting the cup of his anger in their hand Yahweh will be forcing them to drink what is in the cup. AT: "I will force your tormentors to drink from the wine of the bowl of my anger" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

your tormentors

The word "tormentors" may be expressed with a verb. AT: "those who have tormented you" or "those who have caused you to suffer"

you made your back like the ground and like the street for them to walk on

This compares the way their enemies walked on their back to the way people walk on the street. AT: "you lay in the streets so your enemies could walk on your backs" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/hand.md]]

Isaiah 52

Isaiah 52:intro-0

Isaiah 52 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

The prophecies of this chapter occur after the exile in Babylon and are not in reference to the people contemporary to Isaiah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]])

There is an important teaching or prophecy about the messiah beginning in this chapter and continues through the next chapter. This prophesy begins in 52:13 and scholars usually note that it portrays the messiah as a "suffering servant." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]])

Isaiah 52:1

Awake, awake

This word is repeated for emphasis and shows urgency. Isaiah trying to arouse the people is spoken of as if he were trying to wake them up from sleep. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Isaiah 52:13-14

he will be high and lifted up, and he will be exalted

This can be stated in active form. These two phrases "high and lifted up" and "will be exalted" have basically the same meaning and emphasize that Yahweh will honor his servant. See how you translated a similar phrase in Isaiah 33:10. AT: "I will give my servant the greatest honor" (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-parallelism/01.md]])

horrified at you

Here "you" refers to Yahweh's servant. However, translators may decide to change "you" to "him." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

his appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any man

It is implied that the servant is disfigured because enemies beat him very badly. The full meaning of this can be made clear. AT: "his enemies beat his body so badly that he did not even look like a human anymore" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 52:15

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking about his servant.

my servant will sprinkle many nations

The servant causing the people of the nations to be acceptable to Yahweh is spoken of as if the servant were a priest who sprinkles the blood of a sacrifice to make someone or something acceptable to Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

will sprinkle

The Hebrew word translated "sprinkle" here can also be translated as "surprise" or "startle," which some versions of the Bible do.

many nations

Here "nations" represents the people of the nations. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

kings will shut their mouths

The phrase "shut their mouths" is an idiom. AT: "kings will stop talking" or "kings will be silent" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

that which they had not been told

This can be stated in active form. AT: "that which no one had told them" or "something no one had told them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 53

Isaiah 53:intro-0

Isaiah 53 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

In this chapter there is an important teaching or prophecy about the messiah and his life and ministry. It begins in 52:13 and scholars usually note that it portrays the messiah as a "suffering servant." (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/christ.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Atonement

This chapter prophesies about the death of Christ for sin. Most scholars believe it teaches that Christ was a righteous man who died for the sins of mankind. This is usually referred to as the atonement. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/righteous.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/atonement.md]])

Isaiah 53:1-2

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/reject.md]]

Isaiah 53:4

General Information:

Isaiah continues describing Yahweh's servant. (See: Isaiah 53:1-2)

he has borne our sicknesses and carried our sorrows

To "bear" or carry an abstraction like sickness and sorrow represents taking it up. AT: "he has taken our sicknesses and sorrows upon himself" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

yet we thought he was being punished by God, struck by God, and afflicted

This can be stated in active form. AT: "yet we thought God was punishing and afflicting him" (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-explicit/01.md]])

who from that generation thought anymore about him?

Many versions interpret this passage in Hebrew differently: "Who can say anything about his descendants?" or "Who can say anything about his fate?"

But he was cut off from the land of the living

"Cut off" here refers to death. This can be stated in active form. AT: "But he died" or "But death took him away" (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-idiom/01.md]])

of my people

"of the people of Israel"

nor had there been any deceit in his mouth

"Mouth" represents what a person says. AT: "nor did he deceive anyone when he spoke" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 53:10-11

General Information:

Isaiah continues describing Yahweh's servant. (See: Isaiah 53:1-2)

he will see his offspring

Here, "offspring" means those people that Yahweh has forgiven because of the servant's sacrifice. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he will prolong his days

This speaks of making him live for more time. AT: "Yahweh will make his servant live again" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Yahweh's purpose will be accomplished through him

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Yahweh will accomplish his purpose through his servant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

After the suffering of his life

Here "his life" refers to the servant. AT: "After the servant has suffered" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

he will see light

Many versions understand "light" here to stand for life. That is, the servant will become alive again. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

My righteous servant

Here "my" refers to Yahweh.

he will bear their iniquities

The word "bear" means carry. Possible meanings are 1) "their iniquities" is a metonym representing the punishment for their sins. AT: "he will take their punishment" or "he will be punished for their sins" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])or 2) "their iniquities" is a metonym representing their guilt. AT: "he will take their guilt upon himself" or "he will be guilty for their sins"

translationWords

Isaiah 53:12

General Information:

Yahweh continues describing his servant.

Therefore will I give him his portion among the multitudes, and he will divide the spoils with the many

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. "Portion" and "spoils" refer to a king after a victorious battle sharing the plunder or rewards with his army. This means God will greatly honor his servant because of his sacrifice. (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-metaphor/01.md]])

the multitudes

Many versions interpret this expression as "the many" or "the strong."

because he exposed himself to death

"Exposed" means to be vulnerable or unprotected. The servant of Yahweh put himself in a situation where he would die. AT: "he willingly accepted the possibility of death" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

was numbered with the transgressors

This can be stated in active form. AT: "allowed people to treat him as a criminal" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 54

Isaiah 54:intro-0

Isaiah 54 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's covenant faithfulness

This chapter focuses on Yahweh's faithfulness to fulfill his covenants. It references several different covenant promises in this chapter. (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]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/fulfill.md]], [[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]])

This is the heritage of the servants of Yahweh

The reward that Yahweh will give to those who serve him is spoken of as if the reward were something they would inherit. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

this is Yahweh's declaration

translationWords

Isaiah 55

Isaiah 55:intro-0

Isaiah 55 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Gentiles

Many scholars believe this chapter prophesies that Gentiles will be able to come to a saving faith in Yahweh. At this time, the Israelites believed that only an Israelite could be saved. (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/save.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/faith.md]])

Isaiah 55:1

Connecting Statement:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Jerusalem in exile through Isaiah.

General Information:

Yahweh speaks of blessing the people freely as if he were selling food and drink to needy people for free. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Come ... Come

The repetition of this word four times adds a sense of urgency to the invitation.

buy wine and milk without money and without cost

There is a sense of irony in this statement since a person usually has to use money to buy something. This emphasizes Yahweh's amazing grace in giving these things freely. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-irony/01.md]])

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/wine.md]]

Isaiah 55:2

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Jerusalem.

translationWords

Isaiah 55:8-9

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Jerusalem.

this is Yahweh's declaration

for as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts

Yahweh speaks of the things that he does and how he thinks as being far superior to or higher than what people do and think, just like the sky is much higher than the earth. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 55:10-11

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Jerusalem.

For as the rain and snow ... do not return there

This is likely a description of the rain and snow evaporating.

so also my word ... it will achieve the purpose for which I sent it

Yahweh speaks of his word as if it were a person whom he sends out as his messenger to accomplish a task. (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-metaphor/01.md]])

my word will be that goes from my mouth

Here the word "mouth" represents Yahweh himself. AT: "the word that I speak" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

it will not return to me empty

Here the description of the word returning to Yahweh means that it has completed the task that Yahweh had sent it to complete. That it will not return "empty" means that it will not fail to accomplish its task. AT: "it will not fail to complete its task" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 55:12-13

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Jerusalem.

be led along peacefully

This can be stated in active form. AT: "I will lead you along peacefully" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the mountains and the hills will break out in joyful shouts before you, and all the trees of the fields will clap their hands

Yahweh speaks of the mountains, hills, and trees as if they were people with voices and hands, celebrating as Yahweh rescues his people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Instead of the thornbushes, the cypress will grow; and instead of the brier, the myrtle tree will grow

The words "thornbushes" and "brier" refer to species of plants that have sharp thorns growing on them. The words "cypress" and "myrtle" refer to species of evergreen trees. The thorny plants symbolize desolation, while the evergreens symbolize life and prosperity. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

for his name

Here the word "name" represents Yahweh's fame. AT: "for his fame" or "for his honor" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

that will not be cut off

Something ceasing to exist is spoken of as if it were cut off, as a branch is cut off of a tree or a piece of fabric is cut off of clothing. This can be stated in active form. AT: "that will never end" or "that will last forever" (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 56

Isaiah 56:intro-0

Isaiah 56 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Gentiles

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Beasts

The Israelites are compared to beasts and dogs in this chapter. This would have been very offensive to them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Isaiah 56:1-2

for my salvation is near, and my righteousness is about to be revealed.

This can be stated in active form. AT: "I will soon save you and show you that I am righteous" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

who holds it tightly

Here "holds it tightly" is an idiom that means to continue to observe something. AT: "who is careful to always do this" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

keeps his hand from doing any evil

Here the "hand" represents the whole person and emphasizes the person's actions or behaviors. AT: "does not do evil things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 56:3

See, I am a dry tree

This means eunuchs may have thought they could not be a part of God's people because they were deformed by castration (and for this reason could not have children). Israelites did not practice castration; foreigners did, sometimes for punishment. Eunuchs who had accepted the Hebrew faith knew that normally they were not allowed to worship in the temple (Deut. 23:1). The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 56:4-5

All their watchmen are blind

This means Israel's leaders cannot or perhaps do not want to see what is going on in society.

They are all silent dogs

The leaders are supposed to open their mouths and warn the people, but they do not. Comparing someone to a dog in this society is a great insult. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

They dream, and lying down they love to sleep

This means the leaders are not bringing God's word of warning to Israel but prefer their own comfort.

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/devour.md]]

Isaiah 56:11-12

General Information:

Yahweh continues describing the evil leaders of his people.

The dogs have big appetites

Yahweh continues comparing Israel's bad leaders to dogs. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 57

Isaiah 57:intro-0

Isaiah 57 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Child sacrifice

This chapter references the killing of children. Some religions in the ancient Near East practiced the sacrificing of their children. This was considered evil by Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/evil.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# Mocking

The people abandoned the worship of Yahweh in favor of other gods. When they needed help, he tells them to ask these false gods. This is mocking the power of the false gods and shows the people the uselessness of their worship of these gods. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/falsegod.md]])

Yahweh uses a question to scold the people. AT: "Certainly, these things do not please me." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 57:7-8

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the unfaithful people of Israel.

You prepared your bed

This refers to sleeping with prostitutes as a part of worshiping false gods. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

on a high mountain

People often went on top of hills and mountains to worship false gods. They thought those were the best places for worship. This might even refer to Jerusalem, too. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

You made a covenant with them

"You made a contract with them"

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Israel.

I hid my face

This means God gave up on his people and no longer helped or blessed them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

he went backward in the way of his heart

This means the Israelites kept rejecting the true God for false ones. Here "backward" and "way" are location words representing motivations and feelings. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 57:18-19

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking.

his ways

"their ways." Here "his" refers to the people of Israel.

comfort and console those who mourn for him

"I will soothe and calm those who feel sad for the people's suffering because of their sinful behavior"

I create the fruit of the lips

Here "fruit of the lips" refers to what a person says. AT: "I cause them to praise and thank me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Peace, peace, to those who are far off

"I have made peace with them who are far off." The word "Peace" is repeated for emphasis.

translationWords

Isaiah 57:20-21

But the wicked are like the tossing sea ... mire and mud

This compares the wicked to rough water on the shore that makes the water dirty. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 58

Isaiah 58:intro-0

Isaiah 58 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Fasting

The practice of fasting became more common after the exile. This was intended to bring people into a right relationship with God by creating a designated time to concentrate on him. It may have been believed that Yahweh heard people better when they fasted. The significance of fasting is derived from the faster's attitude of repentance and faith in Yahweh and not the practice itself. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/repent.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/faith.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# "Yet they seek me daily"

The people did not truly seek Yahweh every day. They practiced the outward aspects of the Jewish religion, but their hearts were far from Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Isaiah 58:1-2

Lift up your voice like a trumpet

This means shout loudly. Here "your" refers to Isaiah. (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/figs-you/01.md]])

Confront my people with their rebellion, and the house of Jacob with their sins

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Together they strengthen the urgency to confront Yahweh's people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 58:3

'Why have we fasted,' they say, 'but you do not see it? Why have we humbled ourselves, but you do not notice?'

The people of Israel use questions to complain to God because they feel he is ignoring them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 58:4-5

like a spring of water, whose waters never fail

"A spring of water" represents a source of abundance in a land where water is precious. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 58:12

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Israel.

you will be called

This can be stated in active form. AT: "people will call you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 58:13

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Israel.

you turn back your feet from traveling on the Sabbath day, and from doing your own pleasure on my holy day

Here the people are represented by their "feet." God did not allow long travels or work on the day of rest. AT: "you stop traveling and doing what you want to do on the Sabbath, my holy day" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 58:14

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Israel.

I will make you ride on the heights of the earth

This refers to God exalting the nation in reputation and power in response to living righteously. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

for the mouth of Yahweh has spoken

The word "mouth" symbolizes what Yahweh says. AT: "for Yahweh has spoken it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 59

Isaiah 59:intro-0

Isaiah 59 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Yahweh's deliverance

When Israel was conquered, they were being punished for their sin. Yahweh is strong enough to deliver them, but he did not because he desired to refine them through the experience of the exile. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/deliverer.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]])

Isaiah 59:1-2

Look

"Behold!" or "You should know!" Yahweh tells the people to pay attention.

Yahweh's hand is not so short

"Hand" represents power and ability. A "short" hand does not have power and ability. AT: "Yahweh is fully able" (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]])

your ... you

These plural pronouns refer to the people of Israel as a single group. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

your sins have made him hide his face from you

"Face" represents being present and looking upon. AT: "your sins have made him turn away from you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 59:3-4

General Information:

Isaiah continues speaking to the people of Israel.

For your hands are stained with blood and your fingers with sin

Here "hands" and "fingers" refers to their actions. This means they are guilty of doing violent and sinful things. "Your" is plural. AT: "For you have committed violent sins" (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-you/01.md]])

Your lips speak lies and your tongue speaks maliciously

The parts of the body that make speech represent what people say. AT: "You speak lies and malicious things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

they conceive trouble and give birth to sin

"Conceiving" and "giving birth" emphasize how carefully they plan to do sinful things. Here "they" still refers to the people of Israel. AT: "they work hard to do sinful things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 59:5-6

for he will come as a rushing stream

Narrow valleys in Judah were dry most of the year until a sudden, heavy rain turned them into fast-moving water. When that happened there was a lot of noise and wind. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

driven by the breath of Yahweh

This can be stated in active form. AT: "which the breath of Yahweh drives" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

this is Yahweh's declaration

translationWords

Isaiah 59:21

my words which I have put in your mouth

"the message I have given you to speak"

translationWords

Isaiah 60

Isaiah 60:intro-0

Isaiah 60 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Israel's restoration

This chapter pictures a time when Israel will be fully restored to Yahweh. They will be everything Yahweh intended them to be. All the nations will look to Israel and acknowledge her special relationship to Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/restore.md]])

Isaiah 60:1

General Information:

Isaiah continues speaking to the people of Israel.

Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of Yahweh has risen on you

This refers to the glorious things Yahweh has done for the inhabitants of Jerusalem. They are now to show that glory through what they do and say and have hope in the future. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 60:2-3

General Information:

Isaiah is speaking to the people of Israel. He continues the metaphor about "light." (See: Isaiah 60:1)

Though darkness will cover the earth, and thick darkness the nations

Both of these phrases mean the same thing and are combined for emphasis. They refer to "spiritual darkness." This means all the other people of the world will not know Yahweh or how to please him. This is a metaphor for divine judgment. (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-metaphor/01.md]])

yet Yahweh will arise upon you

This means the light of God's presence will appear for the people of Israel, and it will show the way they should go. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

his glory will be seen on you

This can be stated in active form. AT: "the people of the nations will see his glory on you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 60:4-5

translationWords

Isaiah 60:17-18

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Israel.

instead of wood, bronze, and instead of stones, iron

Yahweh will give more valuable building materials to them now. AT: "instead of wood, I will bring bronze, and instead of stones, I will bring iron" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

I will appoint peace as your governors, and justice your rulers

Yahweh describes "peace" and "justice" as human rulers. This means there will be complete peace and justice in the land of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Violence will no longer be heard in your land

This can be stated in active form. AT: "There will no longer be reports of violence in your land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

but you will call your walls Salvation, and your gates Praise

The physical objects have the names of spiritual qualities. The city of Jerusalem will be a safe place, and the people there will praise Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 60:19-20

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Israel.

for Yahweh will be your everlasting light

Both verses repeat this same idea for emphasis. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Your sun will no longer set, nor will your moon withdraw and disappear

The moon will not literally disappear. This exaggeration is saying that the light of the sun and the moon will be much less bright than the light of Yahweh. (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-hyperbole/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 60:21-22

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Israel.

the branch of my planting, the work of my hands

These phrases mean approximately the same and are repeated for emphasis. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

the branch of my planting

Yahweh is comparing the people to young shoots coming up that he planted as if he was a gardener. Yahweh has placed his people in the land of Israel. This gives hope to the people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the work of my hands

Yahweh compares the people of Israel to something made by the skill of his handicraft. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

that I may be glorified

This can be stated in active form. AT: "so that all people may glorify me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

a thousand

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

translationWords

Isaiah 61

Isaiah 61:intro-0

Isaiah 61 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

The first part of this chapter is probably a prophecy about the coming Messiah and not Isaiah because this was different than the message Isaiah delivered. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Restoration

This chapter prophesies concerning a future time of peace and restoration. It is unlikely to have been fulfilled in Isaiah's day. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/restore.md]], [[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/fulfill.md]])

This can be stated in active form. AT: "People will call you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

you will have double

This probably refers to a double portion of land.

they will rejoice over their share ... they will ... their land ... will be theirs

This still refers to the people of Israel. This can be stated in second person. AT: "you will rejoice over your share ... you will ... your land ... will be yours" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 61:8-9

Their descendants will be known among the nations, and their offspring among the peoples

These two clauses mean the same thing. This can be stated in active form. AT: "People from other nations will know their descendants" (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-activepassive/01.md]])

their offspring among the peoples

This clause assumes the same verb as the previous one. AT: "their offspring will be known among the peoples" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 61:10-11

I will greatly rejoice in Yahweh

"I" refers to the people of God speaking as one person whom Yahweh has restored.

clothed me with the garments of salvation; he has clothed me with the robe of righteousness

The people of God speaking as one person now have salvation and righteousness as their distinct appearance visible to all. "Garments" and "robe" are clothing that everyone can see. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

as a bridegroom adorns himself with a turban, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels

This comparison emphasizes that the speaker is extremely happy, joyful, celebrating. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

turban

See how you translated this in Isaiah 61:3.

For as the earth produces its sprouting plants, and as the garden makes its planting grow

This is saying the same thing in two ways. The fact that whatever God says he will do is certainly going to happen is compared to the fact that seeds sprout after planting. AT: "Just as seeds sown in a garden sprout from the soil and grow" (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-simile/01.md]])

righteousness and praise to sprout up

This expression describes these virtues as growing from seed like plants do. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 62

Isaiah 62:intro-0

Isaiah 62 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Restoration

Isaiah 62:1-2

For Zion's sake I will not be silent, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not be quiet

Both of these statements mean the same thing. Here "Zion" and "Jerusalem" both represent the people who live in Jerusalem. AT: "For the sake of the people of Jerusalem I will not be silent" (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]])

I will not be silent

It is most likely that "I" refers to Isaiah.

until her righteousness proceeds brightly, and her salvation as a burning torch

Both clauses reassure the people that God will eventually come and save the people of Israel and that it will be as apparent as light is. (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/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 62:3-4

You will also be a crown of beauty in the hand of Yahweh, and a turban of kingship in the hand of your God

These mean the same thing and are combined for emphasis. They say that Jerusalem will become a royal city under the power and authority of God. Yahweh's hand is a metonym for his power and authority. (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]])

It will no more ... will it be said, "Desolate."

These mean the same thing are combined for emphasis. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

It will no more be said of you

This can be stated in active form. AT: "People will no longer say about you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

nor of your land any longer will it be said

This can be stated in active form. AT: "nor will people any longer say about your land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Look

"Take notice!"

the ends of the earth

The places on the earth that are very far away are spoken of as if they were the places where the earth ends. This phrase also forms a merism and refers to everywhere in between the ends. See how you translated this in Isaiah 40:28. AT "the farthest places of the earth" or "the entire earth" (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]])

the daughter of Zion

"Daughter" represents the people of Jerusalem (Zion). See how you translated this in Isaiah 1:8. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

See, his reward is with him, and his recompense is going before him

These clauses represent the same idea for emphasis. See how you translated a similar phrase in Isaiah 40:10. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

you will be called

This can be stated actively, "they will call you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 63

Isaiah 63:intro-0

Isaiah 63 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

# Imagery

The imagery of judgment in this chapter is intended to be rather vivid. The translator should avoid euphemisms, if possible. Overall, this chapter prophesies a day of great judgment and God's wrath. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/judge.md]], [[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/wrath.md]])

Isaiah 63:1-2

Who is this who comes from Edom ... Bozrah

Isaiah speaks as a watchman using the question and answer format to present this information about Yahweh's judgment on Edom, an enemy of Israel. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. AT: "I, Yahweh, am coming from Edom, clothed in red from Bozrah" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Bozrah

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

It is I

Here "I" refers to Yahweh.

Why are your clothes red, and why ... winepress?

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. AT: "The red on your clothing looks makes you look like you have been treading on grapes in a winepress." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

winepress

A winepress is a low place carved out of rock in the ground where workers step on the grapes to crush them with their feet, in order to remove the grape juice.

translationWords

Isaiah 63:3-4

I have trodden grapes

Here "I" refers to Yahweh. This imagery refers to Yahweh destroying his enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the day of vengeance

"the time of vengeance" or "the time for vengeance"

vengeance

Yahweh will punish in an appropriate way to bring about justice. His kind of vengeance differs from man's vengeance.

the year for my redemption

Here "year" refers to a specific time appointed by Yahweh for restoring Israel. AT: "the time for my redemption" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 63:5-6

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking.

but my own arm

Here "arm" represents power. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

made them drunk in my wrath

This means Yahweh made them stunned and senseless by his full wrath and punishment. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I poured out their blood

Here "blood" represents the life of Yahweh's enemies that was gushing out so they would die. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 63:7-8

I will tell of the acts of Yahweh's covenant faithfulness

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be stated as "faithfully" or "faithful." See how you translated "covenant faithfulness" in Isaiah 16:5. AT: "I will tell about how God has acted faithfully to his covenant" or "I will tell about all the faithful things God has done for his people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

I will tell

Here "I" refers to Isaiah.

done for us

Here "us" refers to Isaiah and the people of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 63:9

Through all their suffering

"Through all our suffering." Here "their" refers to the people of Israel. Isaiah included himself as a member of the people.

he suffered too

Here "he" refers to Yahweh.

the angel from his presence

This is a representative who is sent from God's presence.

he lifted them up and carried them

This refers to when God protected and saved the people of Israel from the Egyptians many years earlier. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. (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]])

who were never called by your name

This can be stated in active form. The word "name" refers to a family relationship. AT: "who never belonged to your family" (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-metonymy/01.md]])

We have become ... called by your name

Some modern versions interpret this passage differently: "We are like the people over whom you have not ruled, like those who have not been called by your name."

translationWords

Isaiah 64

Isaiah 64:intro-0

Isaiah 64 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Repentance

This chapter records the repentance of the righteous remnant of Judah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/repent.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/righteous.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/remnant.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]])

Isaiah 64:1-2

General Information:

The people of Israel continue speaking to Yahweh. (See: Isaiah 63:11)

Oh, if you had

Isaiah introduces this desire for Yahweh's presence in their past history with a strong exclamation. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hypo/01.md]])

if you had split open the heavens

If Yahweh had shown himself very dramatically by tearing open the sky. The words "split open" refer to ripping a piece of cloth apart. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

mountains would have shaken

The mountains would have trembled as in an earthquake. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hypo/01.md]])

as when fire kindles the brushwood, or the fire makes water boil

This possibly emphasizes how easily God's presence would have caused the mountains and the people to tremble. (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/figs-hypo/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 64:3-4

General Information:

The people of Israel continues speaking to Yahweh.

nor eye seen

Here the "eye" refers to the whole person. AT: "nor has anyone seen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

translationWords

[[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/god.md]]

Isaiah 64:5

General Information:

The people of Israel continue speaking to Yahweh.

call to mind

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

translationWords

Isaiah 64:6-7

translationWords

Isaiah 65

Isaiah 65:intro-0

Isaiah 65 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in this chapter.

This chapter is Yahweh's response to the repentance of the people. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/repent.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# Judgment and hope

This chapter records that Yahweh's judgment on the people must come. Despite this, there is hope that in the end, Yahweh will make all things new and restore them to himself. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/judge.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/hope.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/restore.md]])

Isaiah 65:1-2

I was ready

Here "I" refers to Yahweh.

I have spread out my hands all day to a stubborn people

"Spreading out my hands" here is a person's gesture to show imploring or a strong request. AT: "I have continually begged a stubborn people to receive my help" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 65:3-4

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking about the people of Israel.

in gardens ... on brick tiles

These refer to Canaanite places for worshiping idols. Their sacred altars were made of bricks, which Yahweh forbid for his altars. Yahweh's altars were made of stone. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

sit among the graves and keep watch all night

This is a reference to consulting the dead, a practice that Yahweh prohibited. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

eat pork

Yahweh did not allow the people of Israel to eat meat from pigs. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 65:5

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking to and about the people of Israel.

These things are smoke in my nose

Yahweh compares these people who are continually annoying him to smoke that irritates a person's breathing. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

a fire that burns all day long

Yahweh compares the people of Israel to a slow-burning fire that sends out smoke without stopping as it irritates. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 65:6-7

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking about the people of Israel.

Look, it is written

"Take notice and pay attention"

into their laps

This means God will punish them to the fullest extent. This expression compares Yahweh punishing the people to dumping on their legs as they are sitting. (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-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 65:8

As when juice is found in a cluster of grapes

Yahweh compares the people of Israel to a cluster of grapes that still has some good juice in it. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

when juice is found in a cluster

This can be stated in an active way. AT: "when you find juice in a cluster" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

I will not ruin them all

This can be expressed positively. AT: "I will spare some of them who are righteous" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 65:9-10

weeping and cries of distress will no longer be heard in her

You can state this in active form. AT: "no one will hear weeping and cries of distress any longer in her" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 65:20-21

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking about his faithful people.

Structure and formatting

Some translations indent each line of poetry to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetry in 66:1-17, 21-24.

Special concepts in this chapter

# In the end

In the end, Yahweh will enact his perfect justice. This is the true hope of this world. The new heaven and the new earth are an important part of this. In the end, this will be the perfect creation of Yahweh and will last forever. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/justice.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/hope.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/forever.md]])

Isaiah 66:1

Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool

Yahweh compares heaven to a throne and the earth to a footstool to emphasize how great he is. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Where then is the house you will build for me? Where is the place where I may rest?

Yahweh uses questions to emphasize that humans cannot build a place for him to dwell. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 66:2

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking.

My hand has made all these things

Yahweh is represented by his hand which emphasizes his power and authority. AT: "I have made all these things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

this is Yahweh's declaration

the broken and contrite in spirit

Here "broken" and "contrite" refers to a person who is truly humble and who suffers for his faith.

translationWords

Isaiah 66:3

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking.

He who slaughters ... also blesses wickedness

These four clauses all describe different ways evil people act and come to the same meaning for emphasis. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

They have chosen their own ways

"They have chosen to do evil things that violate the ways of Yahweh"

translationWords

Isaiah 66:4

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking about the wicked people.

what was evil in my sight

Here sight represents judgment or evaluation. AT: "what I consider to be evil" or "what is evil in my judgement" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 66:5

May Yahweh be glorified

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Glorify Yahweh" or "May Yahweh glorify himself" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

but they will be put to shame

This can be stated in active form. AT: "but I will put them to shame" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 66:6

General Information:

Yahweh describes the punishment for the hypocrisy of the worshipers.

A sound of battle tumult

The sound represents the real fighting that is going on in the temple as Yahweh is carrying out the punishment. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 66:7-8

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking.

Before she goes into labor, she gives birth; before pain is upon her, she gave birth to a son

Yahweh speaks about Zion as if it were a woman who is about to give birth. Although Zion was destroyed and the people no longer lived there, Yahweh promises that without delay and with little effort an entire nation will come from her. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Who has heard of such a thing? Who has seen such things? Will a land be born in one day? Can a nation be established in one moment?

Yahweh uses questions to emphasize how unique this event will be. The series of questions builds tension until Zion is finally mentioned. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 66:9

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking about Jerusalem as if it were a mother. (See: Isaiah 66:7-8)

Do I bring a baby to the birth opening ... born?

Yahweh uses questions to emphasize that he will not fail to fulfill his promises to the people of Jerusalem. (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-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

Isaiah 66:10-11

General Information:

Yahweh continues speaking about Jerusalem as if it were a mother and the inhabitants of Jerusalem as if they were newly born children. (See: Isaiah 66:7-8)

For you will nurse and be satisfied; with her breasts you will be comforted

This means Jerusalem will be a place of safety and comfort for God's people. This can be stated in active form. AT: "For she will satisfy you with her milk; she will comfort you with her breasts" (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]])

translationWords

Isaiah 66:12-13

the one in the middle

This describes the leader of those of go to worship idols.

this is Yahweh's declaration

translationWords

Isaiah 66:18-19

For I know

Here "I" refers to Yahweh.

Yahweh finishes speaking.

They will go out

Here "they" refers to all the people, the faithful Israelites and foreigners, who come to worship Yahweh.

the worms ... and the fire

Both clauses describe the same idea to emphasize Yahweh's punishment. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

the worms that eat them

The worms represent the horror of decay and rot that are Yahweh's punishment on the wicked. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the fire that consumes

Fire also represents Yahweh's judgment. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

will not be quenched

This can be expressed positively. AT: "will burn forever" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

all flesh

This expression represents all created living beings that shrink from the dead. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

open-licensed biblical content

Isaiah

Isaiah front

Isaiah front:intro

Introduction to Isaiah

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the Book of Isaiah

What is the Book of Isaiah about?

How should the title of this book be translated?

When did the prophet Isaiah live?

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

What did Isaiah prophesy about the future Messiah of Israel?

What did Isaiah mean by "the last days"?

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

What is the meaning of the term "Israel"?

What are some characteristics of prophetic literature in the Book of Isaiah?

Isaiah 1

Isaiah 1:intro-0

Isaiah 01 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Special concepts in this chapter

# Woe

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Metaphors

# Rhetorical Questions

Links:

Isaiah 1:1

The vision of Isaiah ... that he saw

Amoz

Judah and Jerusalem

in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah

translationWords

Isaiah 1:2-3

General Information:

Hear, heavens, and give ear, earth

Yahweh

I have nourished ... does not understand

I have nourished and brought up children

the donkey his master's feeding trough

but Israel does not know, Israel does not understand

Israel

translationWords

Isaiah 1:4

General Information:

Nation, sinners

a people weighed down with iniquity

offspring of evildoers

act corruptly

They have abandoned Yahweh

have despised

Israel

they have estranged themselves from him

translationWords

Isaiah 1:5-6

General Information:

Why are you still being beaten? Why do you rebel more and more?

you

The whole head is sick, the whole heart is weak

there is no part unharmed

they have not been closed, cleansed, bandaged, nor treated with oil

translationWords

Isaiah 1:7-8

General Information:

Your country is ruined

your cities are burned

your fields—in your presence, strangers are destroying them

abandoned devastation

overthrown by strangers

The daughter of Zion is left

The daughter of Zion

is left like a hut in a vineyard, like a shed in a garden of cucumbers

like ... cucumbers, like a besieged city

translationWords

Isaiah 1:9

General Information:

If Yahweh

a small remnant

us ... we

we would have been like Sodom, we would have been like Gomorrah

translationWords