Genesis

Genesis front

Introduction to Genesis

Part 1: General Introduction

In the book of Genesis, God communicates to all people the early history of the universe. He begins with how he created everything from nothing, including the earth and all the heavenly bodies (sun, moon, stars), all the plants and animals, and especially how he created human beings in his image to be in a relationship with him. This book also explains how sin and death came into the world and what God’s plan is to save people from that. In fact, all the important teachings in the Bible begin in Genesis. That makes this book foundational and important for everyone so that they can know and understand the truth about God and his plan for their lives.

Beginning with verse 1, the book of Genesis is a narrative that tells the history of events that actually happened. This is confirmed by the fact that the conjunctions and the forms of the verbs that are used in the Hebrew text reflect the Hebrew narrative style, which is used to narrate historical accounts. In the same way, those who translate the book of Genesis should also use grammatical structures in their languages that are used for true, historical narratives. God uses narrative, which is one of the most interesting styles of communication, to not only tell people about the events in the early history of the world, but also to teach them about himself and about the way he interacts with people as their loving Creator.

Genesis provides the vital context for the rest of God’s Word, especially the gospel message about Jesus, and so it helps people to understand their need for him to be their Savior. In fact, without Genesis, it would not be clear why everyone needs to trust in Jesus as the only one who can save them from sin and its consequences, so that they can associate with God and be part of his eternal family.

In light of all that, Genesis should be one of the first books of the Bible that is translated into every language that needs a translation. May God guide and bless you and your translation team as you undertake this important task together by his power.

Author and date of writing

Moses was the human author of the first five books of the Bible, including the book of Genesis (Exodus 24:3-4; Deuteronomy 31:9, 24; John 1:45). The Holy Spirit is the one who inspired what Moses wrote in those books (2 Peter 1:21), so ultimately God is the author, and these books are part of his Message to mankind. Those five books are sometimes referred to as the Torah (a Hebrew word that means “teaching,” “instruction,” or “law”) or the Pentateuch (a Greek word that means “five books”). In the New Testament this set of books is also referred to as “the Law” (John 1:45) or “the Law of Moses” (Acts 28:23), and Jesus himself affirmed that Moses wrote them (John 5:46-47; 7:23).

Moses was born in the country of Egypt around 1526 B.C. (Exodus 2:1-10). According to the genealogies in Genesis, his birth was about 1,000 years after the Flood (which was about 1,650 years after creation). Moses may have written much of the Pentateuch during the forty years that he led the people of Israel as they wandered in the wilderness (around 1446 B.C.—1406 B.C.).

The very first verse in Genesis assumes that God (the author guiding the human author) has always existed and that he has no beginning and no end (also see Genesis 21:33; Deuteronomy 33:27; Psalm 90:2). He uses his personal name “Yahweh” for the first time in Genesis 2:4. The name “Yahweh” means “he is” and indicates that God is eternal. His name also means that he is unchanging and that he is always present.

Book outline

In all, Genesis covers a span of about 2200 years of history. After the world’s early history, the rest of Genesis tells about the ancestors of God’s people, with special focus on Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph (and their families). Genealogies are an important part of what ties the book together from beginning to end.

The following outline shows these two main divisions in the book of Genesis: (1) Early World History, and (2) The History about the Ancestors of God’s Chosen People. Those two divisions each have roughly four main subdivisions, which are based on four key events (in the first division) and four key ancestors (in the second division). Some scholars prefer to divide the book up into ten divisions that are introduced by the Hebrew phrase that means “these are the generations of...” In the outline below, asterisks mark the sections that contain that phrase. The phrase is found in Genesis 2:4 (heavens and earth), 5:1 (Adam), 6:9 (Noah), 10:1, 32 (sons of Noah), 11:10 (Shem), 11:27 (Terah), 25:12 (Ishmael), 25:19 (Isaac), 36:1, 9 (Esau), and 37:2 (Jacob).

Bolded words in the outline show which sections contain promises and covenants from God and also mark who the main ancestors were in the various sub-divisions.

Division 1: Early World History

Creation - God creates the universe and everything in it (1:1-2:3) - Adam and Eve and the Garden of Eden (2:4-25)\*

The Fall - The first sin and God’s judgment; prophecy of Christ (3:1-24) - promise - Cain and Abel: the first murder; Cain’s descendants (4:1-26) - The descendants of Adam to Noah (5:1-32)\*

The Flood - God destroys the world with a flood, puts rainbow in the sky - covenant (6:1-9:17)\ - Noah curses his son Ham and his grandson Canaan, blesses other sons (9:18-27) - The descendants of Noah’s sons Shem, Ham, and Japheth (10:1-32)\\*

Tower of Babel - Mankind rebels against God at Babel, so God creates many different languages and scatters the people over the earth (11:1-9)

Division 2: The History about the Ancestors of God’s Chosen People

The history about Abraham [Genesis 11:10-25:11] - The descendants of Shem to Abram (11:10-26)\ - Terah and his three sons’ families in Haran; Terah dies (11:27-32)\ - Abram travels to Canaan with Sarai and his nephew Lot (12:1-9) - promise - Abram lies about Sarai to Pharaoh, king of Egypt (12:10-20) - Back in the Negev Desert, Abram and Lot part ways (13:1-18) - promise - War of the kings; Abram rescues Lot and the other citizens of Sodom (14:1-17) - Melchizedek blesses Abram; Abram refuses bounty from king of Sodom (14:18-24) - God’s covenant with Abram (15:1-21) - promise - Hagar and Ishmael (16:1-16) - New names: Abraham and Sarah; covenant of circumcision (17:1-27) - promise - Three men visit Abram, Yahweh renews promise, Sarah laughs (18:1-15) - promise - Abram pleads with Yahweh to spare Sodom (18:16-33) - Lot and two daughters escape destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (19:1-29) - Lot’s grandsons: the ancestors of the Moabites and Ammonites (19:30-38) - Abraham lies about Sarah to Abimelech, king of the Philistines (20:1-18) - Isaac is born to Sarah; Ishmael grows up in the desert (21:1-21) - Abraham makes a treaty with King Abimelech at Beersheba (21:22-34) - God tests Abraham by commanding him to sacrifice Isaac (22:1-19) - promise - Sarah dies and Abraham buys burial property in the land of Canaan (23:1-20) - God provides Rebekah as a wife for Isaac (24:1-67) - Abraham’s descendants by second wife Keturah (25:1-6) - Abraham dies and is buried by Isaac and Ishmael (25:7-11)

The history about Ishmael and Isaac [Genesis 25:12-35:29] - Ishmael’s descendants and his death (25:12-18)\ - Isaac’s sons Esau and Jacob; Esau sells his birthright (25:19-34)\ - Isaac lies about Rebekah to Abimelech, king of the Philistines (26:1-22) - promise - God’s covenant with Isaac in Beersheba; treaty with Abimelech (26:23-33)

The history about Esau and Jacob [Genesis 26:34-36:43] - Jacob steals Esau’s blessing; Esau plans revenge (26:34-27:46) - Jacob flees and heads to Haran; stairway to heaven at Bethel (28:1-22) - promise - Jacob works for Laban to marry his wives Leah and Rachel (29:1-30) - Jacob’s wives have his first eleven sons (29:31-30:24) - Jacob becomes wealthy while working for Laban (30:25-43) - Jacob and his family flee from Laban; Jacob’s treaty with Laban (31:1-55) - Jacob wrestles with God, who names him Israel (32:1-32) - Jacob and Esau reconcile, and Jacob settles in the city of Shechem (33:1-20) - Shechem rapes Dinah, and Jacob’s sons take revenge (34:1-31) - God blesses Jacob at Bethel (35:1-15) - promise - Rachel dies giving birth to Benjamin (35:16-20) - List of Jacob’s twelve sons; Isaac dies and is buried by Esau and Jacob (35:16-29) - Esau’s descendants, the Edomites (36:1-43)\\

The history about Jacob and Joseph [Genesis 37-50] - Jacob’s family; Joseph’s dreams anger his brothers (37:1-11)\ - Joseph sold as a slave and taken to the country of Egypt (37:12-36) - Judah* and his daughter-in-law Tamar have children (38:1-30) - Potiphar’s wife falsely accuses Joseph, and he is imprisoned (39:1-23) - In the prison, Joseph interprets dreams for Pharaoh’s officials (40:1-23) - Joseph interprets Pharaoh’s dreams about famine (41:1-40) - As governor over Egypt, Joseph stores up grain; he has two sons (41:41-57) - Joseph’s brothers come to Egypt to buy grain, then return to Jacob (42:1-38) - All Joseph’s brothers return to Egypt and have a meal with him (43:1-34) - Joseph tests his brothers with his silver cup (44:1-17) - Judah pleads with Joseph for Benjamin’s freedom (44:18-34) - Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers; they give the news to Jacob (45:1-28) - Jacob and his family move to Egypt; list of his descendants (46:1-27) - Joseph settles Jacob and his family in the land of Goshen (47:1-12) - Joseph sells grain to all the people of Egypt (37:13-31) - Jacob blesses Joseph’s sons Ephraim and Manasseh (48:1-22) - Jacob blesses each of his 12 sons (49:1-28) - Jacob’s death (49:29-33) - Joseph has his father Jacob embalmed and buries him in Canaan (50:1-14) - Joseph reassures his brothers that he has forgiven them (50:15-21) - Joseph’s death (Gen 50:22-26)

Special formatting

The book of Genesis sometimes uses poetic language to emphasize what is being said. Many translations use a special format to identify these passages as poetry by indenting each clause on a new line. Many other translations do not do this, but rather use regular paragraph formatting everywhere, including for poetry. It may be helpful to look at a translation in the national language of your country that uses poetry formatting, to help you decide whether or not you want to do something similar in your translation. Some translations put some of the following passages in poetry format since these verses have certain features of poetry such as parallelisms and metaphors: Genesis 1:27; 2:23; 3:14-16, 17b-19; 4:23-24; 8:22; 9:6, 25-27; 12:2-3; 14:19-20; 15:1; 16:11-12; 24:60; 25:23; 27:27-29, 39-40; 48:15-16, 20; 49:1-27. You may not want to put all these passages in poetry format since some of them have parallelisms that are not necessarily poetry but may just be emphasizing certain events in the narrative or certain points in a prophecy.

Genesis 1

Possible titles for this book:

• “Genesis”
• “The Book of Genesis”
• “Genesis: The First Book By Moses”
• “Genesis: The Book About Beginnings”
• “The First Book That God's Prophet/Spokesman Moses Wrote: Genesis”

The English title “Genesis” is a transliteration of a Greek word that means “origin” or “beginning” or “birth”; the ancient Greek translation of the Hebrew scriptures (the Septuagint) uses this word for the first time in Genesis 2:4. The Hebrew title of this book בְּרֵאשִׁית (pronounced “bereshith”) is the first Hebrew word in verse 1 and literally means “In the beginning.” The Latin translation of the Bible (the Latin Vulgate) was the first translation to use the title “The Book of Genesis.” Since that time, many other translations include “Genesis” in the book title because people are familiar with that name. Sometimes as part of the title, translators also include the fact that Moses was the author and that he was inspired by God. Do what is best in your language.

Genesis 1:1

In the beginning

Quote: בְּ⁠רֵאשִׁ֖ית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

The first chapter of Genesis is a true historical narrative (which is indicated by the Hebrew language structures that are used throughout the chapter), and verse 1 records the first event in that history. This is confirmed by the wider context of the Scriptures, which teach us that God created everything out of nothing at the very beginning of the world (Psalm 33:6, 9; Hebrews 11:3). Some languages must use a verb (“began”) in verse 1 rather than an abstract noun (beginning). Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “At the beginning of time”

God

Quote: אֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

Translate the title God in a way that refers to the Supreme Being who created everything, who has complete power, who knows everything and is present everywhere. He is the only true God and has always existed.

created

Quote: בָּרָ֣א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

In the Hebrew Bible, the verb “create” refers to an activity that only God does, and it often implies (as it does here) that he made something out of nothing. Also, the forms of the verbs in the Hebrew text (and the conjunctions) show that chapter 1 is a narrative that tells about true history and events in the order that things actually happened. Make sure that your translation does the same thing. Alternate translation: “made”

the heavens

Quote: אֵ֥ת הַ⁠שָּׁמַ֖יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

This phrase refers here to the region where all the stars and planets would later exist. Keep that in mind as you translate this term. Alternate translation: “the sky”

and the earth

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֥ת הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

This phrase refers to the planet earth.

Genesis 1:2

Now the earth

Quote: וְ⁠הָ⁠אָ֗רֶץ (1)

The author pauses here to describe what the earth and the heavens were like after God first created them (verse 1). Some languages use a conjunction like Now to introduce that information; other languages do not use a conjunction here. Do what is natural in your language. Also, be consistent here with how you translated the earth in verse 1. Alternate translation: “Now at first after that, the earth”

was formless and empty

Quote: הָיְתָ֥ה תֹ֨הוּ֙ וָ⁠בֹ֔הוּ (1)

It is not clear what the earth looked like at that time, but it did not have its present shape and order. Also, the Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “was formless/shapeless and empty/desolate,” or “did not have its present form, and there was nothing living on it yet,” or (2) “completely empty/desolate,” which treats the text as a hendiadys. However, it is best to keep both terms separate in your translation (as they are in the Hebrew text).

and darkness {was} over the surface of the deep {waters

Quote: וְ⁠חֹ֖שֶׁךְ עַל פְּנֵ֣י תְה֑וֹם (1)

For some languages it is more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “It was completely dark, there was deep water everywhere,” or “There was deep water everywhere that was surrounded by total darkness,”

and the Spirit of God was hovering

Quote: וְ⁠ר֣וּחַ אֱלֹהִ֔ים מְרַחֶ֖פֶת (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “and God’s Spirit was hovering/moving” or (2) “and a wind from God was blowing” or (3) “and a powerful wind was blowing”. The first interpretation is most likely, since the Hebrew verb hovering does not describe what wind does.

over the surface of the waters

Quote: עַל פְּנֵ֥י הַ⁠מָּֽיִם (1)

Throughout this chapter, the word waters is in the plural in the Hebrew text. For some languages it is more natural to use the singular “water”. Do what is best in your language in each context. Alternate translation: “over the surface of the water.” or “above the waters”

Genesis 1:3

Then God said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֥אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

What God says in verse 3 is a command. Consider whether or not it is best in your language to make that explicit in this quote margin. Alternate translation: “Then God commanded,”

Let there be light

Quote: יְהִ֣י א֑וֹר (1)

This is a command, not a permission or a suggestion. It is a direct quote of what God actually said, and it is usually put between quotation marks in a translation. If you use an exclamation point with this command in your translation, make sure it does not mean or imply that God was angry. Also, the way you translate light should refer to what shines from a source of light; it does not refer here to the source itself. Alternate translation: “Let light exist.” or “I command there to be light.”

And there was light

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי אֽוֹר (1)

Light began to shine immediately as a result of God’s command. Alternate translation: “So immediately there was light.” or “And so light started shining.”

Genesis 1:4

And God saw

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֧רְא אֱלֹהִ֛ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Notice that Hebrew frequently uses a conjunction such as And or Then at the beginning of a sentence. Some languages do not use conjunctions as frequently as Hebrew uses conjunctions. Do what is accurate and natural in your language in each context. Alternate translation: “And he saw” or “He saw”

the light, that {it was} good

Quote: אֶת הָ⁠א֖וֹר כִּי ט֑וֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

In the Bible, good is an important theme. Throughout chapter 1, it especially means that what God created was high quality, complete, and had no defects; in other words, it had all the characteristics and functions that God intended it to have. It also includes the idea that what God created was untainted by sin and reflected his good character (Psalm 19:1; Romans 1:20). The focus here is not on how pleased or satisfied God was. Alternate translation: “that the light was good”

Then God separated

Quote: וַ⁠יַּבְדֵּ֣ל אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In order to produce an accurate and natural translation, it is important in each context to make sure that nouns (such as God) and pronouns (such as “he”) are used properly in your language. In the Hebrew text, God is repeated frequently in chapter 1 to emphasize him and show that he is in focus. For some languages it is more natural to say God only once at the beginning of each paragraph or section, and then use pronouns to refer to him the rest of the time (or most of the time). Throughout chapter 1, do what is best in your language each time that you refer to God.

Then God separated between the light and the darkness

Quote: וַ⁠יַּבְדֵּ֣ל אֱלֹהִ֔ים בֵּ֥ין הָ⁠א֖וֹר וּ⁠בֵ֥ין הַ⁠חֹֽשֶׁךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “Then he separated the light from the darkness so that each had its own time.” or “Then he caused the light to have its own time and the darkness to have its own time.” or “Then he separated the light from the darkness so that it would be light for a number of hours, and then dark for a number of hours.”

Genesis 1:5

And God called

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֨א אֱלֹהִ֤ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Some languages omit the connecting word And or Then here. Consider what is the best way in your language to connect this sentence with the previous one. Alternate translation: “Then God called” or “God named”

the light Day

Quote: לָ⁠אוֹר֙ י֔וֹם (1)

Notice that in this context the word Day refers only to the time when the sun is shining, not to the 24-hour time period that makes up a complete day. Make sure that this is clear in your translation. Throughout chapter 1, some translations use quote marks around the names that God gives the different things he created. Do what is best in your language.

and the darkness he called Night

Quote: וְ⁠לַ⁠חֹ֖שֶׁךְ קָ֣רָא לָ֑יְלָה (1)

In the Hebrew text, the darkness is first in this clause to emphasize the contrast between the light and the darkness. Consider what is the best way to translate this clause in your language. Alternate translation: “and the darkness he called Nighttime.” or “and he named the darkness Nighttime.”

Then there was evening, and there was morning

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי עֶ֥רֶב וַֽ⁠יְהִי בֹ֖קֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential

The evening and the morning are the parts of a 24-hour day that separate the hours of daytime (light) from the hours of nighttime (darkness): Evening came at the end of each daytime after God finished his work of creating. Then after about 12 hours of nighttime, morning came, which began the next 12 hours of daytime when God did more work. Make sure your translation does not sound like morning came immediately after evening. Some languages have a one-word conjunction that means “and then” or “and later” and would fit well here. Alternate translation: “Then evening came, and then morning came,”

one day

Quote: י֥וֹם אֶחָֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

Here day refers to a full 24-hour day. Also, the Hebrew text uses a cardinal number (one) here, but then uses ordinal numbers (“second,” “third,” and so on) for the rest of the days of the creation week. Some languages need to use an ordinal number (“first”) here too. Other languages use cardinal numbers throughout (“day one,” “day two,” and so on). Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “and that was day one.”

Genesis 1:6

Then God said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

See how you translated this phrase in verse 3. Alternate translation: “Then God commanded,”

Let there be an expanse

Quote: יְהִ֥י רָקִ֖יעַ (1)

The Hebrew word for expanse here describes a large space that is “spread out.” It was not solid, but rather it was open and empty and could be seen through and flown through (verse 20). It was probably also curved, following the spherical shape of the earth. See how you translated Let there be in verse 3. Alternate translation: “Let there be a vast space” or “I command there to be a vast space” or “I command a vast space to form”

in the middle of the waters

Quote: בְּ⁠ת֣וֹךְ הַ⁠מָּ֑יִם (1)

See how you translated waters in verse 2.

and let it separate the waters from the waters

Quote: וִ⁠יהִ֣י מַבְדִּ֔יל בֵּ֥ין מַ֖יִם לָ⁠מָֽיִם (1)

Alternate translation: “and let it divide the water above it from the water below it.” or “so that it separates the waters into two different places.”

Genesis 1:7

So God made

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֣עַשׂ אֱלֹהִים֮ (1)

Verse 7 explains what God’s command in verse 6 caused to happen, and it repeats some of the same words and phrases. Make sure that your translation of these verses does not sound like God created the expanse twice. Alternate translation: “In that way God made” or “That is how he made”

the expanse

Quote: אֶת הָ⁠רָקִיעַ֒ (1)

Alternate translation: “a vast space”

and separated

Quote: וַ⁠יַּבְדֵּ֗ל (1)

Alternate translation: “and divided” or “and used it to separate”

between the waters that {were} under the expanse and the waters that {were} above the expanse

Quote: בֵּ֤ין הַ⁠מַּ֨יִם֙ אֲשֶׁר֙ מִ⁠תַּ֣חַת לָ⁠רָקִ֔יעַ וּ⁠בֵ֣ין הַ⁠מַּ֔יִם אֲשֶׁ֖ר מֵ⁠עַ֣ל לָ⁠רָקִ֑יעַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

For some languages it is more natural to use a pronoun (it) here to refer to the expanse, since it was just mentioned earlier in the verse. Each language has its own system of when to use nouns or pronouns to refer to people, places, and things. In each context, do what is clear and natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the water that was below the expanse from the water that was above it.” or “the water that was under it from the water that was above it.”

And it was so

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי כֵֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Alternate translation: “That is the way it happened.” or “Everything was exactly as he commanded it to be”

Genesis 1:8

And God called

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֧א אֱלֹהִ֛ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Consider whether it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here (with or without a conjunction) or to continue the sentence that began at the end of verse 7. Also see how you translated this phrase in verse 5. Alternate translation: “He called” or “and he called”

the expanse

Quote: לָֽ⁠רָקִ֖יעַ (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verses 6 and 7. Alternate translation: “the vast space”

Heavens

Quote: שָׁמָ֑יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

This word probably refers here to the atmosphere above the earth’s surface where clouds are and where birds fly, as well as the space where the sun, moon, and stars are now. Be consistent here with how you translated this term in verse 1.

Then there was evening, and there was morning

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי עֶ֥רֶב וַֽ⁠יְהִי בֹ֖קֶר (1)

See how you translated this sentence in verse 5, and see the note about that there. Alternate translation: “Then evening came, and then morning came,”

the second day

Quote: י֥וֹם שֵׁנִֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

Consider whether it is more natural in your language to use an ordinal number (second) here or a cardinal number (“two”). Alternate translation: “and the second day ended.” or “and that was the end of day two.”

Genesis 1:9

Then God said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

See how you translated this phrase in verses 3 and 6. Alternate translation: “Then God commanded,”

Let the waters under the heavens be gathered

Quote: יִקָּו֨וּ הַ⁠מַּ֜יִם מִ⁠תַּ֤חַת הַ⁠שָּׁמַ֨יִם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

Consider whether it is better here in your language to use a passive form of the verb (be gathered) or an active form (“gather” or “come”). Alternate translation: “Let the water that is under the sky come together” or “I command the water that is below the heavens to come together”

to one place

Quote: אֶל מָק֣וֹם אֶחָ֔ד (1)

Alternate translation: “in one area” or “into one area”

and let the dry ground appear

Quote: וְ⁠תֵרָאֶ֖ה הַ⁠יַּבָּשָׁ֑ה (1)

The water had been covering the land, so when the water receded from it, the land became exposed and dried off. Make sure that the way you translate dry ground does not sound like the land was dry while it was under the water. Alternate translation: “so that there is dry land.” or “so that dry land can be seen.” or “so that land is uncovered and dries off.”

And it was so

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי כֵֽן (1)

See how you translated this sentence in verse 7. It may be necessary to translate it in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: “And it was exactly as God commanded it to be”

Genesis 1:10

And God called

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֨א אֱלֹהִ֤ים (1)

Alternate translation: “Then he named”

the dry ground

Quote: לַ⁠יַּבָּשָׁה֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “the dry land” or “the land that had dried off”

Land

Quote: אֶ֔רֶץ (1)

This is the same Hebrew word that is translated as “earth” in verse 1, but here it refers to the dry land or ground (in contrast to the water), and not to the entire planet. Alternate translation: “Ground,”

and the gathered waters he called

Quote: וּ⁠לְ⁠מִקְוֵ֥ה הַ⁠מַּ֖יִם קָרָ֣א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

See how you translated a sentence in verse 5 that is similar in structure to this sentence. Alternate translation: “and the waters that he had gathered together he named” or “and he called the gathered waters” or “and he called the waters that had come together”

Seas

Quote: יַמִּ֑ים (1)

At that time there was probably just one very large body of water and one very large land mass on the earth (as verse 9 indicates). So a singular noun that refers to the largest body of water, such as “Ocean” or “Sea”, could be used here in your translation. Alternate translation: “Oceans.”

And God saw

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֥רְא אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Decide whether it is more natural in your language to use a noun (God) or a pronoun (he) in this context. See how you translated this phrase in verse 4. Alternate translation: “And he saw” or “He saw”

that {it was} good

Quote: כִּי טֽוֹב (1)

Some languages cannot use a pronoun (it) here, but have to specify what was good. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated the word good in verse 4, and see the note about that there. Alternate translation: “that what he had made was good” or “that the land and the seas were good”

Genesis 1:11

Then God said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “Then God commanded,”

Let the land sprout vegetation

Quote: תַּֽדְשֵׁ֤א הָ⁠אָ֨רֶץ֙ דֶּ֔שֶׁא (1)

The Hebrew word for vegetation refers generally here to any kind of green plant and includes the plants and trees that are mentioned next in this verse. Also, see how you translated “Land” in verse 10. Alternate translation: “I command the ground to grow green plants,” or “The ground must now be covered with green plants,”

every} plant yielding seed

Quote: עֵ֚שֶׂב מַזְרִ֣יעַ זֶ֔רַע (1)

This phrase refers to many different kinds of plants, not just one plant or one seed. Make sure that is clear in your translation. Also, these kinds of plants have soft stems and include vegetable plants, herbs and other plants that produce edible seeds, such as rice, corn, and wheat. Alternate translation: “including every kind of plant that has seeds” or “including all kinds of plants that have seeds”

every} fruit tree bearing fruit according to its kind

Quote: עֵ֣ץ פְּרִ֞י עֹ֤שֶׂה פְּרִי֙ לְ⁠מִינ֔⁠וֹ (1)

The phrase according to its kind emphasizes that each different kind of tree produces its own kind of fruit and seeds, which grow and become only that kind of tree. For example, apple trees always produce apples with apple seeds, never peaches or cherries, or any other kind of fruit or seeds. Alternate translation: “and fruit trees that bear fruit, each according to its own kind” or “and every kind of fruit tree that bears its own kind of fruit” or “and all kinds of fruit trees that bear their own kind of fruit”

that {has} its seed inside it

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר זַרְע⁠וֹ ב֖⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “that has seeds inside,” or “with its own kind of seeds inside it,”

on the earth

Quote: עַל הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it is clearer and more natural to put this phrase earlier in this verse and say, “Let the land sprout vegetation on/throughout the earth …” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “throughout the earth.”

And it was so

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי כֵֽן (1)

Either a period or a colon can be used here, but a colon more clearly shows that verse 12 gives the details of what happened. This is different from verse 7, where the details of what happened come before And it was so, and from verse 9, where no additional details are given. Alternate translation: “And it happened exactly as God commanded it to happen:”

Genesis 1:12

So the land brought out vegetation

Quote: וַ⁠תּוֹצֵ֨א הָ⁠אָ֜רֶץ דֶּ֠שֶׁא (1)

Verse 12 explains what God’s command in verse 11 caused to happen, and it repeats some of the same words and phrases. Make sure that your translation of these verses does not sound like God created the plants twice. Alternate translation: “The land sprouted plants,” or “The land started growing green plants,”

every} plant yielding seed according to its kind

Quote: עֵ֣שֶׂב מַזְרִ֤יעַ זֶ֨רַע֙ לְ⁠מִינֵ֔⁠הוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “including plants that have seeds, each according to its own kind” or “including every kind of plant that has seeds that grow into the same type of plant,” or “including all kinds of plants that have their own type of seeds,”

and {every} tree bearing fruit that {has} its seed inside it, according to its kind

Quote: וְ⁠עֵ֧ץ עֹֽשֶׂה פְּרִ֛י אֲשֶׁ֥ר זַרְע⁠וֹ ב֖⁠וֹ לְ⁠מִינֵ֑⁠הוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “and trees that bear fruit with seeds inside, each according to its own kind.” or “and every kind of tree that has fruit with seeds that grow into the same kind of tree.” or “and all kinds of trees that have their own kind of seed-bearing fruit.”

And God saw

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֥רְא אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to begin this sentence with a conjunction. Alternate translation: “And he saw” or “He saw”

that {it was} good

Quote: כִּי טֽוֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this clause in verse 10. Some languages have to specify what was good. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “that what he had made was good” or “that all the plants and trees were good”

Genesis 1:13

Then there was evening, and there was morning

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי עֶ֥רֶב וַֽ⁠יְהִי בֹ֖קֶר (1)

See how you translated this sentence in verses 5 and 8. Alternate translation: “Then evening came, and then morning came,”

the third day

Quote: י֥וֹם שְׁלִישִֽׁי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

Alternate translation: “and the third day ended.” or “and that was the end of day three.”

Genesis 1:14

Then God said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “Then God commanded,”

Let there be lights

Quote: יְהִ֤י מְאֹרֹת֙ (1)

These lights refer to the sun, moon and stars that give off light. But it is important to keep this general in your translation (like the Hebrew text does) and not specify the names of these lights. Alternate translation: “Let lamps exist” or “Let there be objects that give light”

in the expanse of the heavens

Quote: בִּ⁠רְקִ֣יעַ הַ⁠שָּׁמַ֔יִם (1)

The expanse is the same thing as the heavens (verse 8), so some translations leave the expanse of implied here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “in the space of the sky” or “in the open space of the sky” or “in the heavens”

to separate

Quote: לְ⁠הַבְדִּ֕יל (1)

Alternate translation: “to divide” or “that separate”

between the day and the night

Quote: בֵּ֥ין הַ⁠יּ֖וֹם וּ⁠בֵ֣ין הַ⁠לָּ֑יְלָה (1)

See how you translated “Daytime” and “Nighttime” in verse 5.

And let them be for signs

Quote: וְ⁠הָי֤וּ לְ⁠אֹתֹת֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “Let those lamps also be” or “They will also serve as” or “I also command those lamps to serve as”

And let them be for signs

Quote: וְ⁠הָי֤וּ לְ⁠אֹתֹת֙ (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “signs/markers of special/important events, and they must/will mark” or “They must/will also mark/indicate when important things happen, and they must/will mark/show” or (2) “signs/markers that mark/indicate/show”. The word signs means that the lights are to mark certain times of the year. Following the first interpretation, the lights are to also mark special events (such as the star that signaled Jesus’ birth and the darkened sun at Jesus’ death).

and for seasons, and for days and years

Quote: וּ⁠לְ⁠מ֣וֹעֲדִ֔ים וּ⁠לְ⁠יָמִ֖ים וְ⁠שָׁנִֽים (1)

The sun and moon show the passing of time. For example, the 30-day month is determined by the phases of the moon, and the 365-day year is determined by the time it takes for the earth to travel around the sun. Seasons are regular times of the year, such as seed-planting and harvesting times, and the seasons of spring, summer, fall and winter (Genesis 8:22), as well as the special festivals which God appointed for his people to meet with him. You could put some of that information in a footnote.

Genesis 1:15

And let them be as lights

Quote: וְ⁠הָי֤וּ לִ⁠מְאוֹרֹת֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “And they will be sources of light” or “They will serve as lights” or “Their purpose is to serve as sources of light”

in the expanse of the heavens

Quote: בִּ⁠רְקִ֣יעַ הַ⁠שָּׁמַ֔יִם (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 14. Alternate translation: “in the space called the sky” or “in the open space of the sky” or “in the heavens”

to shine on the earth

Quote: לְ⁠הָאִ֖יר עַל הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)

See how you translated the earth in verses 1-2. Alternate translation: “to shine light on the earth.” or “so that they give light to the earth.”

And it was so

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי כֵֽן (1)

Alternate translation: “And it was exactly as he commanded it to be”

Genesis 1:16

So God made

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֣עַשׂ אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)

Verses 16-18 explain what God’s commands in verses 14-15 caused to happen. Make sure your translation of these verses does not sound like he created the lights twice. See how you translated So God made in verse 7. Alternate translation: “In that way God made” or “That is how he made”

the two great lights

Quote: אֶת שְׁנֵ֥י הַ⁠מְּאֹרֹ֖ת הַ⁠גְּדֹלִ֑ים (1)

This phrase refers to the sun and the moon, which are the two brightest objects in the earth’s sky. However, the author intentionally does not use their names, so you should not include their names in your translation either. Alternate translation: “the two big lights,”

the greater light

Quote: אֶת הַ⁠מָּא֤וֹר הַ⁠גָּדֹל֙ (1)

The focus is on the relative brightness or strength of the lights, not on their size. Alternate translation: “the stronger light”

to rule the day

Quote: לְ⁠מֶמְשֶׁ֣לֶת הַ⁠יּ֔וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The word rule is a figure of speech that means each light has the greatest effect during a particular time period because it is the brightest light that is shining then. For some languages, nonliving objects like the sun and the moon cannot rule because only people can do that. Do what is accurate and natural in your language. Alternate translation: “to govern the day,”

and the lesser light

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת הַ⁠מָּא֤וֹר הַ⁠קָּטֹן֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “and the dimmer light”

to rule the night

Quote: לְ⁠מֶמְשֶׁ֣לֶת הַ⁠לַּ֔יְלָה (1)

Be consistent here with how you translated rule previously in this verse. Alternate translation: “to govern the night,”

and the stars

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֖ת הַ⁠כּוֹכָבִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The verb made that is used earlier in the verse is implied here. Translate this in a way that is clear and natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and he also made the stars.” or “That is also when he created the stars.”

Genesis 1:17

And God set them

Quote: וַ⁠יִּתֵּ֥ן אֹתָ֛⁠ם אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to God and the lights at this point in the paragraph. Alternate translation: “God put them” or “God placed the lights”

in the expanse of the heavens

Quote: בִּ⁠רְקִ֣יעַ הַ⁠שָּׁמָ֑יִם (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verses 14 and 15. Alternate translation: “in the space called the sky” or “in the open space of the sky” or “in the heavens”

to shine on the earth

Quote: לְ⁠הָאִ֖יר עַל הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 15. Alternate translation: “to provide light to the earth,”

Genesis 1:18

and to rule over the day and over the night

Quote: וְ⁠לִ⁠מְשֹׁל֙ בַּ⁠יּ֣וֹם וּ⁠בַ⁠לַּ֔יְלָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Make sure that your translation of the word day refers here to the daytime hours, not an entire 24-hour day. Also see how you translated rule in 1:16. Alternate translation: “and to dominate the daytime or the nighttime,” or “and to shine during the daytime and during the nighttime,”

and to separate between the light and the darkness

Quote: וּֽ⁠לֲ⁠הַבְדִּ֔יל בֵּ֥ין הָ⁠א֖וֹר וּ⁠בֵ֣ין הַ⁠חֹ֑שֶׁךְ (1)

Consider again how you translated separate in verses 4, 6-7, 14 and 18. Alternate translation: “and to distinguish the light from the darkness.” or “and to separate the time of light from the time of darkness.”

And God saw

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֥רְא אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)

Alternate translation: “And he saw” or “He saw”

that {it was} good

Quote: כִּי טֽוֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Some languages need to specify what was good. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “that what he had made was good” or “that the lights in the sky were good”

Genesis 1:19

Then there was evening, and there was morning

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי עֶ֥רֶב וַֽ⁠יְהִי בֹ֖קֶר (1)

Alternate translation: “Then evening came, and then morning came,”

the fourth day

Quote: י֥וֹם רְבִיעִֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

Alternate translation: “and the fourth day ended.” or “and that was the end of day four.”

Genesis 1:20

Then God said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “Then God commanded,”

Let the waters swarm {with} swarm{s} of living creature{s

Quote: יִשְׁרְצ֣וּ הַ⁠מַּ֔יִם שֶׁ֖רֶץ נֶ֣פֶשׁ חַיָּ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “I command the water to be full of large groups of living creatures,” or “I command there to be large numbers of water animals that live everywhere in the water,”

and let bird{s} fly

Quote: וְ⁠עוֹף֙ יְעוֹפֵ֣ף (1)

The Hebrew word for birds can also be more general and refer to “winged/flying creatures,” which includes birds, bats, flying insects and even flying reptiles that are now extinct. Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “and let there be birds that fly” or “Also let there be winged creatures that fly”

above the earth across the face of the expanse of the sky

Quote: עַל הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ עַל פְּנֵ֖י רְקִ֥יעַ הַ⁠שָּׁמָֽיִם (1)

Alternate translation: “above the earth, through the air.” or “across the sky above the earth.”

Genesis 1:21

So God created

Quote: וַ⁠יִּבְרָ֣א אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

See how you translated created in verse 1. Alternate translation: “That is how he made” or “In that way he made”

the great sea creatures

Quote: אֶת הַ⁠תַּנִּינִ֖ם הַ⁠גְּדֹלִ֑ים (1)

These include whales, sharks, giant squid, crocodiles, and leviathans (Psalm 74:13-14, Isaiah 27:1), which were probably swimming reptiles that are now extinct. Alternate translation: “the huge ocean animals”

and every living creature that moves

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֣ת כָּל נֶ֣פֶשׁ הַֽ⁠חַיָּ֣ה הָֽ⁠רֹמֶ֡שֶׂת (1)

Alternate translation: “and every kind of fish and every other animal that lives” or “and all the fish and other kinds of animals that live”

which the waters swarm with

Quote: אֲשֶׁר֩ שָׁרְצ֨וּ הַ⁠מַּ֜יִם (1)

Alternate translation: “throughout the ocean in large groups,” or “in the water and fills it,” or “all over the place in the ocean,”

according to their kind

Quote: לְ⁠מִֽינֵ⁠הֶ֗ם (1)

This phrase emphasizes that each different kind of creature has its own distinct kind of offspring/young. For example, whales always give birth to whales, and never give birth to cats or cows or any other kind of creature. Alternate translation: “each according to its own kind” or “each that has its own kind of young,”

and

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֨ת (1)

For some languages it is more natural to begin a new sentence here, so that the previous sentence is not too long. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “and how he made” or “That is also how he created”

every winged bird

Quote: כָּל ע֤וֹף כָּנָף֙ (1)

See how you translated “birds” in verse 20. Alternate translation: “every kind of bird” or “all the different kinds of birds” or “every kind of winged creature”

according to its kind

Quote: לְ⁠מִינֵ֔⁠הוּ (1)

See how you translated this phrase earlier in this verse. Alternate translation: “each according to its own kind” or “each that has its own kind of young.”

And God saw

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֥רְא אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)

Alternate translation: “And He saw” or “He saw”

that {it was} good

Quote: כִּי טֽוֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Some languages need to specify what was good. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “that what he had made was good” or “that the water animals and the birds were good”

Genesis 1:22

Then God blessed them

Quote: וַ⁠יְבָ֧רֶךְ אֹתָ֛⁠ם אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

For some languages it is necessary to specify what them refers to. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Then God caused them all to prosper” or “Then God blessed the water creatures and the birds”

saying

Quote: לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

God blesses the water animals first. If that is not clear, you could make that explicit here in the quote margin or at the beginning of what God says. Alternate translation: “and said first to the water animals,”

Be fruitful

Quote: פְּר֣וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

God speaks directly to the water animals using the second person (“you”), then later in the verse speaks about the birds in the third person (the birds). For some languages it is necessary to use either second person for both or third person for both, to prevent confusion. Do what is natural and clear in your language. Alternate translation: “Reproduce” or “You water animals will produce many young”

and multiply

Quote: וּ⁠רְב֗וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Alternate translation: “so that you and your offspring will multiply greatly in number” or “so that you and your offspring will become very many”

and fill

Quote: וּ⁠מִלְא֤וּ (1)

Alternate translation: “and live throughout”

the waters in the seas

Quote: אֶת הַ⁠מַּ֨יִם֙ בַּ⁠יַּמִּ֔ים (1)

For some languages, “water in the seas” is too repetitive, so it is more natural here to just say “seas/sea” or “ocean” or “water”. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “the water of the sea”

and let the bird{s} multiply

Quote: וְ⁠הָ⁠ע֖וֹף יִ֥רֶב (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, see how you translated multiply earlier in this verse. Alternate translation: “And the birds will also increase greatly in number” or “You birds will also become very many”

on the earth

Quote: בָּ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “throughout the earth.” or “and live all over the earth.”

Genesis 1:23

Then there was evening, and there was morning

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי עֶ֥רֶב וַֽ⁠יְהִי בֹ֖קֶר (1)

Alternate translation: “Then evening came, and then morning came,”

the fifth day

Quote: י֥וֹם חֲמִישִֽׁי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

Alternate translation: “and the fifth day ended.” or “and that was the end of day five.”

Genesis 1:24

Then God said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)

Alternate translation: “Then God commanded,”

Let the land bring forth

Quote: תּוֹצֵ֨א הָ⁠אָ֜רֶץ (1)

See how you translated a similar command to the land in verse 11. Alternate translation: “I command the land to yield” or “The land must now produce”

every} living creature

Quote: נֶ֤פֶשׁ חַיָּה֙ (1)

This is a general term that refers to all the different kinds of creatures/animals that breathe, including the three large categories of animals mentioned below in this verse. Alternate translation: “every type of living animal” or “all kinds of animals,”

according to its kind

Quote: לְ⁠מִינָ֔⁠הּ (1)

This phrase means that every kind of animal that God created always produces young that are the same kind of animal as their parents. See how you translated this phrase in verse 21, and see the note about that there. Alternate translation: “each that has its own kind of young,” or “each having its own kind of young,”

livestock

Quote: בְּהֵמָ֥ה (1)

This term probably includes animals such as horses, camels, cattle, sheep, and goats that people raise for food or use for farming or other work. This is in contrast to animals that normally live in the wild. Alternate translation: “including farm animals,”

and {every} crawling creature

Quote: וָ⁠רֶ֛מֶשׂ (1)

Alternate translation: “every type of animal that crawls” or “all kinds of animals that crawl”

and {every} living thing of the earth

Quote: וְ⁠חַֽיְתוֹ אֶ֖רֶץ (1)

This phrase refers in general to animals that are normally not raised by people but live in the wild. Alternate translation: “and every other kind of wild animal that lives on the land,” or “and all the other kinds of wild animals that live on the land,”

each} according to its kind

Quote: לְ⁠מִינָ֑⁠הּ (1)

See how you translated this phrase earlier in this verse. Alternate translation: “each that has its own kind of offspring” or “each having its own kind of offspring”

And it was so

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי כֵֽן (1)

Alternate translation: “It happened exactly as he commanded it to happen.”

Genesis 1:25

So God made

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֣עַשׂ אֱלֹהִים֩ (1)

Alternate translation: “That is how God created” or “In that way God made”

every} creature of the earth

Quote: אֶת חַיַּ֨ת הָ⁠אָ֜רֶץ (1)

See how you translated every creature of the earth in verse 24. Alternate translation: “every kind of wild animal,” or “all the different kinds of wild animals,”

according to its kind

Quote: לְ⁠מִינָ֗⁠הּ (1)

Alternate translation: “each that bears its own kind of young,” or “each having its own kind of young,”

and the livestock

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת הַ⁠בְּהֵמָה֙ (1)

See how you translated livestock in verse 24. Alternate translation: “and every kind of farm animal,” or “and all the farm animals,”

according to its kind

Quote: לְ⁠מִינָ֔⁠הּ (1)

Alternate translation: “each that bears its own kind of young,” or “each having its own kind of young,”

and every crawling creature of the ground

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֛ת כָּל רֶ֥מֶשׂ הָֽ⁠אֲדָמָ֖ה (1)

See how you translated crawling creature in verse 24. Alternate translation: “and every kind of creature that crawls along the ground,” or “and all different kinds of animals that crawl along the ground,”

according to its kind

Quote: לְ⁠מִינָ֗⁠הּ (1)

Consider again how you translated this phrase in verses 11, 12, 21, 24 and 25. It may be necessary to translate this phrase in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: “each that bears its own kind of offspring” or “each having its own kind of young,”

And God saw

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֥רְא אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)

Alternate translation: “And he saw” or “He saw”

that {it was} good

Quote: כִּי טֽוֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Some languages need to specify what was good. Consider again how you translated “And God saw that … good” in verses 10, 12, 18, 21, 25. Alternate translation: “that what he had made was good” or “that all the animals that he had made were good”

Genesis 1:26

Then God said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Here God is not commanding anything to happen, but is getting ready to personally create mankind himself (the details are given in Gen 2:7, 21-22). Some languages have to specify who is being spoken to. Do what is best in your language.

Let us make

Quote: נַֽעֲשֶׂ֥ה (1)

Most Bible scholars think that the plural pronouns (us and our) in this verse refer to God and reflect the fact that he is three Persons in one God. So it is best to keep these pronouns plural in your translation. Also, many translations capitalize the first letter of all pronouns that refer to God in order to show him honor and respect. Your translation team needs to decide whether or not you will do that too. Be consistent with your decision as you translate the Bible. Alternate translation: “Now we will make”

man

Quote: אָדָ֛ם (1)

The Hebrew word for man is used here (and in verse 27) as a collective noun that refers to human beings in general, including both male and female. Alternate translation: “mankind”

in our image, according to our likeness

Quote: בְּ⁠צַלְמֵ֖⁠נוּ כִּ⁠דְמוּתֵ֑⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases have similar meanings and emphasize that God made mankind to be like himself in many ways. Alternate translation: “to be like us, so that they are similar to us in many ways,”

and let them rule

Quote: וְ⁠יִרְדּוּ֩ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “and let us put them in control of” or “We will give them authority to rule”

over the fish of the sea

Quote: בִ⁠דְגַ֨ת הַ⁠יָּ֜ם (1)

Alternate translation: “the fish in the sea”

and over the bird{s} of the sky

Quote: וּ⁠בְ⁠ע֣וֹף הַ⁠שָּׁמַ֗יִם (1)

Some translations leave out the phrase of the sky because it is strongly implied and may not sound natural in their languages. However, if it is natural in your language, it is best to include this phrase, because the author repeatedly contrasts three large categories of animals in this section: creatures that live on the ground, creatures that swim in the water, and creatures that fly in the sky. Alternate translation: “the birds that fly in the sky”

and over the livestock

Quote: וּ⁠בַ⁠בְּהֵמָה֙ (1)

Consider again how you translated livestock in verses 24-26. Alternate translation: “the farm animals,”

and over all the earth

Quote: וּ⁠בְ⁠כָל הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ (1)

This refers to the planet earth and everything on it, including water, soil, metals, minerals, and other resources, as well as all the plants and animals.

and over every moving creature moving on the earth

Quote: וּ⁠בְ⁠כָל הָ⁠רֶ֖מֶשׂ הָֽ⁠רֹמֵ֥שׂ עַל הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)

For some languages it is not natural to repeat and or over with each item in this list. Consider what is the best way to translate a list like this in your language. Alternate translation: “including every creature that moves on the earth.” or “and all the animals that live on the earth.”

Genesis 1:27

Then God created

Quote: וַ⁠יִּבְרָ֨א אֱלֹהִ֤ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

In this verse God does what he said he was going to do (verse 26). Make sure your translation does not sound like God created mankind twice. Also see how you translated created in verses 1 and 21. Alternate translation: “So God made”

man

Quote: אֶת הָֽ⁠אָדָם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

Be consistent here with how you translated this term in verse 26. Alternate translation: “mankind”

in his image

Quote: בְּ⁠צַלְמ֔⁠וֹ (1)

God made mankind to be like himself in some ways (not all ways) and to represent him in the world and show people what he is like. For example, God gave human beings an eternal spirit and the ability to have a relationship with him. He also gave us emotions, an understanding of right and wrong, and the ability to reason and make choices, to create new things and to have authority over the rest of creation. You could include some of that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: “in his own image.” or “to be similar to himself in many ways.”

In the image of God he created him

Quote: בְּ⁠צֶ֥לֶם אֱלֹהִ֖ים בָּרָ֣א אֹת֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

The pronoun him refers to the collective noun man, which in this case refers to human beings in general, not just one person. Also, this clause is the second half of a chiasm (an inverted parallelism) that repeats the first part of verse 27 in reverse order, to emphasize that it was in God’s image that human beings were created. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Yes he made them in his image” or “Indeed he created them to be like himself” or “Yes, God made them to be similar to himself in many ways”

male and female he created them

Quote: זָכָ֥ר וּ⁠נְקֵבָ֖ה בָּרָ֥א אֹתָֽ⁠ם (1)

The phrase male and female comes first in the Hebrew text in order to emphasize it. Do what is accurate and natural in your language. Also make sure your translation of this verse does not sound like God is both male and female. Alternate translation: “He also made them to be male or female.”

Genesis 1:28

Then God blessed them

Quote: וַ⁠יְבָ֣רֶךְ אֹתָ⁠ם֮ אֱלֹהִים֒ (1)

See how you translated blessed in verse 22. Alternate translation: “Then God showed his favor to them” or “Then God caused them to prosper”

and God said to them

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר לָ⁠הֶ֜ם אֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Make sure it is clear in your translation of this quote margin that what God says next is the way that he blessed mankind, not something he said separately from that. Alternate translation: “and said,” or “He said,”

Be fruitful

Quote: פְּר֥וּ (1)

See how you translated Be fruitful and multiply in verse 22. It may be necessary to translate the phrase in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: “Bear many children” or “You will bear many children”

and multiply

Quote: וּ⁠רְב֛וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Alternate translation: “so that you and your descendants will multiply greatly in number” or “so that you and your descendants will become very many”

and fill the earth

Quote: וּ⁠מִלְא֥וּ אֶת הָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ (1)

For some languages, it is more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “and inhabit the whole earth” or “Fill the earth”

and subdue it

Quote: וְ⁠כִבְשֻׁ֑⁠הָ (1)

Alternate translation: “and take care of it.” or “and bring it under your control.”

And rule

Quote: וּ⁠רְד֞וּ (1)

See how you translated rule in verse 26. Alternate translation: “You must rule over” or “I am giving you authority to rule”

over the fish of the sea and over the bird{s} of the sky

Quote: בִּ⁠דְגַ֤ת הַ⁠יָּם֙ וּ⁠בְ⁠ע֣וֹף הַ⁠שָּׁמַ֔יִם (1)

See how you translated these phrases in verse 26. Alternate translation: “the fish in the ocean, the birds that fly in the sky”

and over every living thing that moves on the earth

Quote: וּ⁠בְ⁠כָל חַיָּ֖ה הָֽ⁠רֹמֶ֥שֶׂת עַל הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)

This phrase refers generally here to every kind of creature that lives on land. Alternate translation: “and every animal that moves on the land.” or “and all the animals that move on the land.”

Genesis 1:29

Then God said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

God is still speaking to the human beings, so it may be necessary to add “also” to this quote margin. Some languages need to specify who is being spoken to. Other languages may leave this quote margin implied, since the same subject (God) is talking to the same people. However, the repeated quote margin in the Hebrew text could show that God paused before continuing or that he is changing the topic, or to emphasize what he says next. So if it is natural to keep the quote margin here in your language, that is best. Alternate translation: “Then God also said to them,” or “Then he added,”

Behold

Quote: הִנֵּה֩ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

This word means that what God says next is important and should be given special attention. Consider what is the best way to translate this term in your language. Alternate translation: “Look,” or “Listen to this,” or “I want you to know that”

I have given to you

Quote: נָתַ֨תִּי לָ⁠כֶ֜ם (1)

Alternate translation: “I am now giving to you as food” or “I have provided as food for you” or “I am now providing as food for you”

every plant {that} yields seed that {is

Quote: אֶת כָּל עֵ֣שֶׂב זֹרֵ֣עַ זֶ֗רַע אֲשֶׁר֙ (1)

See how you translated a similar phrase in verses 11 and 12. Alternate translation: “every kind of seed-bearing plant that grows” or “every kind of plant with seeds that grows” or “all the different kinds of plants that yield seeds and grow”

on the surface of the whole earth

Quote: עַל פְּנֵ֣י כָל הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “anywhere throughout the earth,”

and every tree that {has

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת־כָּל־הָ⁠עֵ֛ץ אֲשֶׁר (1)

Alternate translation: “as well as every kind of tree that bears” or “and all the different kinds of trees that bear”

tree fruit {that} yields seed inside it

Quote: בּ֥⁠וֹ פְרִי עֵ֖ץ זֹרֵ֣עַ זָ֑רַע (1)

See how you translated a similar phrase in verses 11 and 12. Alternate translation: “seed-bearing fruit.”

They will be yours for food

Quote: לָ⁠כֶ֥ם יִֽהְיֶ֖ה לְ⁠אָכְלָֽה (1)

Alternate translation: “You may eat from any of those plants.”

Genesis 1:30

And to every living thing of the earth

Quote: וּֽ⁠לְ⁠כָל חַיַּ֣ת הָ֠⁠אָרֶץ (1)

See how you translated similar phrases in verses 24 and 25. Alternate translation: “In the same way, to every kind of wild creature that lives on the land,” or “Likewise, to all the wild creatures that live on the land,” or “In the same way, to all the wild animals,”

and to every bird of the sky

Quote: וּ⁠לְ⁠כָל ע֨וֹף הַ⁠שָּׁמַ֜יִם (1)

Alternate translation: “and every kind of bird that flies in the sky,”

and to every{thing} moving on the earth that {has} living breath in it

Quote: וּ⁠לְ⁠כֹ֣ל רוֹמֵ֣שׂ עַל הָ⁠אָ֗רֶץ אֲשֶׁר בּ⁠וֹ֙ נֶ֣פֶשׁ חַיָּ֔ה (1)

See how you translated “that moves on the earth” in verse 28. Alternate translation: “and every other kind of creature that moves on the land and has the breath of life,” or “and all the other creatures that move on the earth and breathe air to live,”

I have given} every green plant for food

Quote: אֶת כָּל יֶ֥רֶק עֵ֖שֶׂב לְ⁠אָכְלָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it is clearer or more natural to put this phrase near the beginning of this verse and say, “In the same way, I give every type of green plant for food to all the wild animals that live on the earth, and all the birds that fly in the sky, and all the other animals that live on the land and breathe air.” Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated plant in verses 11, 12, 29. Alternate translation: “I give every kind of green plant as food.” or “I have given all the green plants as food.”

And it was so

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי כֵֽן (1)

Consider again how you translated this sentence in verses 7, 9, 11, 15, 24 and 30. It may be necessary to translate it in different ways, depending on the context. For example, here in verse 30 this phrase follows a statement God made, which is different from the other contexts where it follows a command. Alternate translation: “And it was exactly as God said it would be.”

Genesis 1:31

Then God saw

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֤רְא אֱלֹהִים֙ (1)

See how you translated “God saw …” in verse 4. Alternate translation: “Then God observed”

all that he had made

Quote: אֶת כָּל אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָשָׂ֔ה (1)

This phrase refers to everything that God made during the entire week of Creation, not just on the sixth day. Consider again how you translated made (or “make”) in verses 7, 16, 25, 26 and 31. Compare that to how you translated a word that has a similar meaning (“created”) in verses 1, 21 and 27. Alternate translation: “everything that he had created,”

and behold

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּה (1)

This word calls attention to what God is looking at and helps emphasize that what he saw was very good. Alternate translation: “and indeed” or “and he saw that”

it was} very good

Quote: ט֖וֹב מְאֹ֑ד (1)

Consider again how you translated “good/excellent” in verses 4, 10, 12, 18, 21, 25, and 31. Alternate translation: “it was all very good”

Then there was evening, and there was morning

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי עֶ֥רֶב וַֽ⁠יְהִי בֹ֖קֶר (1)

Consider again how you translated these phrases in verses 5, 8, 13, 19, 23, and 31, and see the note about that at verse 5. Alternate translation: “Then evening came, and then morning came,”

the sixth day

Quote: י֥וֹם הַ⁠שִּׁשִּֽׁי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

Alternate translation: “and the sixth day ended.” or “and that was the end of day six.”

Genesis 2

Genesis 2:1

So the heavens and the earth were completed

Quote: וַ⁠יְכֻלּ֛וּ הַ⁠שָּׁמַ֥יִם וְ⁠הָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

Verse 1 is a summary statement that looks back at what God did in chapter 1. Make sure that is clear in your language. Also consider whether it is better in your language to use an active or passive clause here, and see how you translated “heavens and earth” in Gen 1:1. Alternate translation: “So it was that the heavens and the earth were finished by God,” or “That is how God finished making the heavens and the earth,”

and all their hosts

Quote: וְ⁠כָל צְבָאָֽ⁠ם (1)

This phrase refers to everything in the heavens and on the earth that God had created, as described in chapter 1. Alternate translation: “along with everything in them.”

Genesis 2:2

by the seventh day

Quote: בַּ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠שְּׁבִיעִ֔י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

Make sure it is clear in your translation that God had completed his work by the seventh day and did not work on that day. Also consider again how you translated ordinal numbers in Gen 1:5, 8, 13, 19, 23, 31; 2:2. Alternate translation: “By day seven”

And … God had completed

Quote: וַ⁠יְכַ֤ל אֱלֹהִים֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Decide whether it is better in your language to refer to God with a title (God) or a pronoun (he) in this context. Alternate translation: “he had completed” or “God was finished with”

his work that he had done

Quote: מְלַאכְתּ֖⁠וֹ אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָשָׂ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “his work he had been doing,”

so he rested on the seventh day from all

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁבֹּת֙ בַּ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠שְּׁבִיעִ֔י מִ⁠כָּל (1)

God rested in the sense that he stopped his work and did not work on that day. It does not mean he was tired or had lost his strength. Rest is an important theme in the Bible, so you should try to be consistent in how you translate this term here and in other passages such as Exodus 23:12, 31:17 and Hebrews 4:4, 10. Part of this theme includes the Hebrew word for “Sabbath” which has the same root word as the verb for “rest” and is often translated “resting day.” Alternate translation: “so he ceased on that day from all” or “so on the seventh day he no longer did”

his work that he had done

Quote: מְלַאכְתּ֖⁠וֹ אֲשֶׁ֥ר עָשָֽׂה (1)

Alternate translation: “the work that he had been doing.”

Genesis 2:3

And God blessed the seventh day

Quote: וַ⁠יְבָ֤רֶךְ אֱלֹהִים֙ אֶת י֣וֹם הַ⁠שְּׁבִיעִ֔י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

For some languages it is more natural to begin verse 3 without a conjunction. Other languages use a conjunction here like Hebrew does. Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Then he designated the seventh day as a day to bless people” or “He honored the seventh day”

and sanctified it

Quote: וַ⁠יְקַדֵּ֖שׁ אֹת֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

Alternate translation: “and made it a holy day,” or “and set it apart as a day especially devoted to him,” or “by setting it apart as a special day for people to rest and worship him,”

because on it

Quote: כִּ֣י ב֤⁠וֹ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “because during that day” or “He did that because during that day”

he rested from all his work

Quote: שָׁבַת֙ מִ⁠כָּל מְלַאכְתּ֔⁠וֹ (1)

See how you translated a similar clause in verse 2. Alternate translation: “he ceased from all the work” or “he did not do any more work”

of creating that God had done

Quote: אֲשֶׁר בָּרָ֥א אֱלֹהִ֖ים לַ⁠עֲשֽׂוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Alternate translation: “of creating that he had been doing.”

Genesis 2:4

These {are

Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה (1)

This phrase refers forward to Gen 2:5-24 and begins a new section. Chapter one of Genesis gives an overview of what God did each day of creation week, including that he created human beings on day six. Chapter two gives more details about how God created Adam and Eve, who were his most important creations. Each chapter emphasizes different parts of the same history; they are not two different histories. Make sure that is clear in your translation. Alternate translation: “These are more details about” or “This is more about” or “What follows gives more details about”

the generations of the heavens and the earth when they were created

Quote: תוֹלְד֧וֹת הַ⁠שָּׁמַ֛יִם וְ⁠הָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ בְּ⁠הִבָּֽרְאָ֑⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

The Hebrew text uses a passive construction here to emphasize the heavens and the earth. Decide the best way to do that in your language. Alternate translation: “the history of the heavens and the earth when they were created by God,” or “what happened when God created the heavens and the earth.”

in the day {when

Quote: בְּ⁠י֗וֹם (1)

Consider whether or not it is clearer or more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here that continues into verse 5. Alternate translation: “during the days when” or “During the days when”

Yahweh God

Quote: יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

This phrase is a combination of God’s personal name Yahweh with his title “God.” Both are used together when he is especially in focus. This pattern of using a personal name and a title together is also used for people in the Old Testament when they are being emphasized, for example, “Ahab king of Israel” and “Ruth the Moabitess.” Many translations have “LORD God” in place of Yahweh God throughout the Old Testament. This follows the Jewish custom of substituting the Hebrew title “Adonai” (which means “my Lord”) for Yahweh (which means “he is”) when they read the Scriptures aloud. More recently, translation teams are putting Yahweh back in the Bible text (especially in the Old Testament, but also in the New Testament), and they include a footnote to explain the term. (Some translation teams consider using “Jehovah” instead of “Yahweh.” However that is not a name from the Bible, but is formed by taking the consonants from Yahweh and combining them with the vowels from “Adonai.”) Alternate translation: “God whose name is Yahweh”

made the earth and the heavens

Quote: עֲשׂ֛וֹת & אֶ֥רֶץ וְ⁠שָׁמָֽיִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-chiasm

This clause forms a chiasm with “the heavens and the earth … created” in the first part of this verse. Try to keep the same phrase order in your translation. See how you translated the heavens and the earth in Gen 1:1 and 2:1. Alternate translation: “created the earth and the heavens”

Genesis 2:5

and every shrub of the field had not yet appeared on the earth

Quote: וְ⁠כֹ֣ל ׀ שִׂ֣יחַ הַ⁠שָּׂדֶ֗ה טֶ֚רֶם יִֽהְיֶ֣ה בָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background

Consider whether or not it is better in your translation to begin a new sentence here. Verses 5-6 give background information about what things were like before God created mankind (verse 7). Some languages use a conjunction like “Now” to introduce background information, while other languages do not use a conjunction here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Now for a while, there were not yet any shrubs in the fields on the earth,” or “For a while, no wild shrubs had started growing on the earth yet,”

and every plant of the field had not yet sprung up

Quote: וְ⁠כָל עֵ֥שֶׂב הַ⁠שָּׂדֶ֖ה טֶ֣רֶם יִצְמָ֑ח (1)

See how you translated “plants” in Gen 1:11-12, 29-30. Alternate translation: “nor had any other plants started growing yet,”

because Yahweh God

Quote: כִּי֩ & יְהוָ֤ה אֱלֹהִים֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The Hebrew text repeats Yahweh God frequently in chapter 2 (starting in verse 4) to emphasize God. For some languages, it is not natural to repeat Yahweh God so often in the same paragraph, and it could even give the wrong meaning that there was more than one Yahweh God. For languages like that, it may be best to use Yahweh God only once at the beginning of a section or paragraph, then use Yahweh, God, or “he” in the rest of the section, depending on the context. Consider what is the most accurate and natural way to refer to Yahweh God at each point in your translation. Alternate translation: “because he”

had not caused it to rain on the earth

Quote: לֹ֨א הִמְטִ֜יר & עַל הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ (1)

See how you translated earth in Gen 1:1 and 2:1. Alternate translation: “had not yet caused it to rain on the earth,” or “had not yet caused rain to water the earth,”

and there was no man

Quote: וְ⁠אָדָ֣ם אַ֔יִן (1)

Alternate translation: “and there were no human beings yet” or “and mankind did not exist yet”

to work the ground

Quote: לַֽ⁠עֲבֹ֖ד אֶת הָֽ⁠אֲדָמָֽה (1)

Working the ground includes tasks such as clearing the ground, preparing the soil, planting seeds, and watering the plants. See how you translated ground in Gen 1:25. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: “to farm the land”

Genesis 2:6

But mist

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֖ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

The Hebrew word for mist refers to water in some form, such as water vapor, springs, or streams of water. Also, some translations begin verse 6 without But. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “But at that time mist” or “At that time mist”

came up

Quote: יַֽעֲלֶ֣ה (1)

This verb describes a repeated or continuous action. Alternate translation: “seeped up” or “kept coming up” or “would seep up”

from the earth

Quote: מִן הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “from the ground” or “from underground”

and watered

Quote: וְ⁠הִשְׁקָ֖ה (1)

Alternate translation: “and irrigated” or “and spread over”

all of the surface of the ground

Quote: אֶֽת כָּל פְּנֵֽי הָֽ⁠אֲדָמָֽה (1)

Alternate translation: “the whole surface of the earth.” or “the ground everywhere.”

Genesis 2:7

Then Yahweh God formed

Quote: וַ⁠יִּיצֶר֩ יְהוָ֨ה אֱלֹהִ֜ים (1)

The word formed describes what an expert craftsmen would do, and implies artistic skills and design. See how you translated Yahweh God in Gen 2:4-5. Alternate translation: “Then Yahweh who is God shaped”

the man

Quote: אֶת הָֽ⁠אָדָ֗ם (1)

The definite article the is used here because this refers to a specific man, the first male human. For many languages it is more natural to use an indefinite article (a) to introduce him here, or to not use an article at all. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “the first man”

out of} dust

Quote: עָפָר֙ (1)

The word used here in the Hebrew text is usually translated dust (as in Gen 13:16, 28:14), but it can also be translated “dirt” (as in Gen 26:15) or “mortar/mud/clay” (as in Leviticus 14:42). The dirt would have been damp enough to be formed or shaped. Alternate translation: “out of mud”

from the ground

Quote: מִן הָ֣⁠אֲדָמָ֔ה (1)

For some languages it may be better to change the order of the phrases in the first half of this verse and say, “Then Yahweh who is God took some dirt/clay from the ground/earth and formed/shaped a man out of it,” Do what is best in your language. Also, see how you translated ground in Gen 1:25 and 2:5-6. You may need to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: “from the earth,”

and he breathed

Quote: וַ⁠יִּפַּ֥ח (1)

For some languages, it is more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “and he blew” or “Then he exhaled”

into his nostrils the breath of life

Quote: בְּ⁠אַפָּ֖י⁠ו נִשְׁמַ֣ת חַיִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

This refers to God’s breath. As you translate the pronouns he and his in this verse, make sure it is clear in your language who is being referred to.

and the man became a living being

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִ֥י הָֽ⁠אָדָ֖ם לְ⁠נֶ֥פֶשׁ חַיָּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider what is the most natural way in your language to refer to the man throughout verse 7. Alternate translation: “so that he became a living person.” or “and then the man became alive” or “and he came to life.” or “so that he started to live.”

Genesis 2:8

Now Yahweh God had planted

Quote: וַ⁠יִּטַּ֞ע יְהוָ֧ה אֱלֹהִ֛ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “Now Yahweh God had previously/already planted” or “Before that, Yahweh God had planted”. This interpretation fits the context of chapter one, which says that God had made all the trees and plants on day three (Gen 1:11-12), three days before he created man (Gen 1:26-27; 2:7). Following this view, verses 8-14 give background information for what happens in verses 15-24. (2) “Then Yahweh God planted”. According to this interpretation, God made the Garden of Eden on day six after he created man.

a garden

Quote: גַּן (1)

The man lived in this garden, and there were animals and many trees and other plants in it too, so it was fairly large. Make sure your translation of this term does not refer to something that is too small. Alternate translation: “a large park”

in Eden, in the east

Quote: בְ⁠עֵ֖דֶן מִ⁠קֶּ֑דֶם (1)

In this context, the phrase in the east could refer to: (1) the eastern part of the region of Eden; or (2) a region east of where Moses lived when he wrote this. It is best, if possible, to keep your translation of this phrase general here (like the Hebrew text). Alternate translation: “in the region called Eden, which was to the east,” or “in the eastern part of the land of Eden,”

and there he put the man

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֣שֶׂם שָׁ֔ם אֶת הָֽ⁠אָדָ֖ם (1)

Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “and in that garden he put the man” or “That is where he put the man”

whom he had formed

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר יָצָֽר (1)

See how you translated formed in verse 7. Alternate translation: “whom he had shaped” or “whom he had created”

Genesis 2:9

And Yahweh God had made to grow from the ground every tree {that} is pleasant

Quote: וַ⁠יַּצְמַ֞ח יְהוָ֤ה אֱלֹהִים֙ מִן־הָ֣⁠אֲדָמָ֔ה כָּל־עֵ֛ץ נֶחְמָ֥ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

See how you translated Yahweh God in verse 5, and how you translated every tree in Gen 1:29. Alternate translation: “There he had caused to grow from the ground every type of tree that is beautiful” or “He had made all kinds of trees to grow from the ground that are pleasant”

to the sight

Quote: לְ⁠מַרְאֶ֖ה (1)

Alternate translation: “to the eyes” or “in appearance”

and good

Quote: וְ⁠ט֣וֹב (1)

Alternate translation: “and that have fruit that is good” or “and whose fruit is good”

for food

Quote: לְ⁠מַאֲכָ֑ל (1)

Alternate translation: “for eating,”

and the tree of life in the middle of the garden

Quote: וְ⁠עֵ֤ץ הַֽ⁠חַיִּים֙ בְּ⁠ת֣וֹךְ הַ⁠גָּ֔ן (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “including the tree whose fruit gives people eternal life, which was in the middle of the garden,”

and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil

Quote: וְ⁠עֵ֕ץ הַ⁠דַּ֖עַת ט֥וֹב וָ⁠רָֽע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

The word good refers here to all that is morally right and pleasing to God, and evil refers to what is morally wrong and against his will. Keep that in mind as you translate these terms. Alternate translation: “as well as the tree whose fruit enables people to discern what is right and what is wrong.”

Genesis 2:10

And a river was going out

Quote: וְ⁠נָהָרּ֙ יֹצֵ֣א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Verse 10 gives more background information that began in verse 8. Many translations omit the conjunction And or “Now” here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Now a river was flowing” or “A river was flowing”

from Eden

Quote: מֵ⁠עֵ֔דֶן (1)

The garden was inside the land of Eden, so as the river flowed through Eden, it watered the garden. Alternate translation: “from the land of Eden”

to water

Quote: לְ⁠הַשְׁק֖וֹת (1)

See how you translated “watered” in verse 6. Alternate translation: “to irrigate” or “to provide water for” or “that watered”

the garden

Quote: אֶת הַ⁠גָּ֑ן (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 8. Alternate translation: “the park,”

and from there

Quote: וּ⁠מִ⁠שָּׁם֙ (1)

For some languages it is better to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “and from the garden” or “From Eden”

it divided and became four head{water}s

Quote: יִפָּרֵ֔ד וְ⁠הָיָ֖ה לְ⁠אַרְבָּעָ֥ה רָאשִֽׁים (1)

Verse 10 is ambiguous in the Hebrew text. It could mean: (1) “the/that river divided into four smaller waters/rivers.” This interpretation means that the river in Eden was the source river that watered the garden and then divided downstream into the four smaller rivers. (2) “there were four smaller source rivers that joined together and formed the larger river.” This interpretation means that the four rivers were source headwaters that flowed downstream and joined to form the larger river in Eden. If possible, leave your translation ambiguous here (like the Hebrew text does), so that either interpretation is possible.

Genesis 2:11

The name of the first {is

Quote: שֵׁ֥ם הָֽ⁠אֶחָ֖ד (1)

Most translations use past tense in verse 10, but then use present tense throughout verses 11-14. It may be best to use past tense throughout verses 10-14, especially since the rivers and places that are named in these verses no longer existed when Genesis was written, because the Flood completely changed the entire surface of the earth; after the Flood, the names of some of those rivers and places were given to new rivers and places. Alternate translation: “The name of the first river is” or “The first river is named” or “The first river is”

Pishon

Quote: פִּישׁ֑וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Consider whether or not it is natural in your language to use the article (the) with the name of a river.

It winds through

Quote: ה֣וּא הַ⁠סֹּבֵ֗ב (1)

The word winds or “meanders” means that the river changed direction from time to time. Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the previous sentence. Alternate translation: “It meanders through” or “which flows around through”

all of the land of Havilah

Quote: אֵ֚ת כָּל אֶ֣רֶץ הַֽ⁠חֲוִילָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Be consistent in how you translate land of throughout this section. Alternate translation: “the whole region called Havilah,”

where gold {is

Quote: אֲשֶׁר שָׁ֖ם הַ⁠זָּהָֽב (1)

Alternate translation: “a place where there is much gold.” or “which has a lot of gold.”

Genesis 2:12

And the gold of that land

Quote: וּֽ⁠זֲהַ֛ב הָ⁠אָ֥רֶץ הַ⁠הִ֖וא (1)

This sentence emphasizes the previous statement about the gold and gives more information about it. Alternate translation: “In fact, the gold from that land” or “Indeed, the gold that is found in that land”

is} good

Quote: ט֑וֹב (1)

Alternate translation: “is very pure.” or “is very high quality.”

Bdellium

Quote: הַ⁠בְּדֹ֖לַח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

The meaning of this Hebrew word is not certain. In many translations it is transliterated, that is, spelled the way the Hebrew word is pronounced. It may refer to: (1) a fragrant/sweet-smelling tree resin that was used to make perfume; or (2) a type of stone or crystal, or possibly pearl. Alternate translation: “A kind of sweet-smelling resin called bdellium” or “A kind of fragrant perfume”

and onyx stone

Quote: וְ⁠אֶ֥בֶן הַ⁠שֹּֽׁהַם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

It is not certain what kind of stone this was, but most Bible scholars think it was onyx, which is a kind of quartz that is often black, but also occurs in many other colors, and can have stripes or bands of white (or other colors) running through it. Alternate translation: “and valuable stones called onyx” or “and valuable gemstones”

are} there

Quote: שָׁ֥ם (1)

Make sure the verb tense you choose here fits with the way you translated verse 11. Alternate translation: “are also found there.” or “are also in that land”

Genesis 2:13

And the name of the second river {is

Quote: וְ⁠שֵֽׁם הַ⁠נָּהָ֥ר הַ⁠שֵּׁנִ֖י (1)

See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 11. Alternate translation: “The name of the second river is” or “The second river is named” or “The second river is”

It winds through

Quote: ה֣וּא הַ⁠סּוֹבֵ֔ב (1)

Consider whether it is better here in your language to begin a new sentence or to continue the previous sentence. See how you translated this phrase in verse 11. Alternate translation: “It meanders through” or “which flows around through”

all of the land of Cush

Quote: אֵ֖ת כָּל אֶ֥רֶץ כּֽוּשׁ (1)

See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 11. Alternate translation: “the whole region of Cush.”

Genesis 2:14

And the name of the third river {is

Quote: וְ⁠שֵׁ֨ם הַ⁠נָּהָ֤ר הַ⁠שְּׁלִישִׁי֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “The name of the third river is” or “The third river is named” or “The third river is”

It goes east of

Quote: ה֥וּא הַֽ⁠הֹלֵ֖ךְ קִדְמַ֣ת (1)

The word east refers to where the river was located, not the direction it was flowing. Alternate translation: “It flows in an area east of” or “which flows in an area east of” or “which was located east of”

Asshur

Quote: אַשּׁ֑וּר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

This Hebrew name is pronounced “ash-shur” and is spelled “Asshur,” “Ashur,” or “Assyria” in English, depending on the context. This was a region of land, because at that time there were no cities. Most translations have “Assyria” here. Consider again how you translated “the land of” in verses 11 and 13. Alternate translation: “the land of Asshur”

And the fourth river {is

Quote: וְ⁠הַ⁠נָּהָ֥ר הָֽ⁠רְבִיעִ֖י (1)

See how you translated a similar phrase in verses 11, 13-14. Also consider again whether it is best in your language to use present tense or past tense in verses 10-14. Alternate translation: “The name of the fourth river is” or “The fourth river is called” or “and the fourth river is”

Euphrates

Quote: פְרָֽת (1)

Consider again how you translated the names of rivers in verses 11, 13-14.

Genesis 2:15

And Yahweh God took the man and put him

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקַּ֛ח יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶת הָֽ⁠אָדָ֑ם וַ⁠יַּנִּחֵ֣⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

In verse 8 it says that God had already put the man in the garden, so the way you translate verse 15 should not sound like he did it again. This information is repeated here to continue the story from verse 8. Alternate translation: “Now Yahweh God had already put the man”

in the Garden of Eden

Quote: בְ⁠גַן עֵ֔דֶן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Notice that Garden is capitalized when it is part of a name. Alternate translation: “in the garden in the land called Eden”

to work it

Quote: לְ⁠עָבְדָ֖⁠הּ (1)

See how you translated work in verse 5. Alternate translation: “to farm it” or “so that he would farm it”

and tend it

Quote: וּ⁠לְ⁠שָׁמְרָֽ⁠הּ (1)

Alternate translation: “and maintain it.”

Genesis 2:16

Then Yahweh God commanded the man, saying

Quote: וַ⁠יְצַו֙ יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהִ֔ים עַל־הָֽ⁠אָדָ֖ם לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The way you begin verse 16 depends on how you began verse 15. Consider what is the best way to refer to Yahweh God and the man here. Alternate translation: “Then he commanded the man,”

From every tree of the garden you may freely eat

Quote: מִ⁠כֹּ֥ל עֵֽץ הַ⁠גָּ֖ן אָכֹ֥ל תֹּאכֵֽל (1)

Alternate translation: “You may eat as much fruit as you want to eat from every tree in the garden,” or “You are permitted to eat whatever fruit that you want to eat from every tree in the garden,”

Genesis 2:17

but you must not eat from the tree of

Quote: וּ⁠מֵ⁠עֵ֗ץ & לֹ֥א תֹאכַ֖ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions

Make sure it is clear in your translation that God is not contradicting himself here, but rather he is giving an exception to what he said in verse 16. To make that clear, you could say (starting with the beginning of God’s words in verse 16), “Out of all the trees in the garden, there is only one tree that you must/may not eat from: the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. If you eat fruit from that tree, on that same day you will certainly/definitely die.” Alternate translation: “except you may not eat any fruit from the tree” or “except for one: you may not eat the fruit that grows on the tree”

the knowledge of good and evil

Quote: הַ⁠דַּ֨עַת֙ ט֣וֹב וָ⁠רָ֔ע (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 9. Alternate translation: “whose fruit enables people to discern what is good and what is wrong,”

because on the day you eat from it

Quote: כִּ֗י בְּ⁠י֛וֹם אֲכָלְ⁠ךָ֥ מִמֶּ֖⁠נּוּ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “because on the same day you eat fruit from that tree” or “If you eat any fruit from that tree, on that same day” or “because as soon as you eat fruit from that tree”

you will surely die

Quote: מ֥וֹת תָּמֽוּת (1)

Alternate translation: “you will certainly die.”

Genesis 2:18

Then Yahweh God said, “{It is} not good {for

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר֙ יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהִ֔ים לֹא ט֛וֹב (1)

Alternate translation: “Next Yahweh who is God declared, It is not good”

the man to be alone

Quote: הֱי֥וֹת הָֽ⁠אָדָ֖ם לְ⁠בַדּ֑⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “that the man is alone.”

I will make

Quote: אֶֽעֱשֶׂהּ (1)

Alternate translation: “So I will make”

a suitable helper for him

Quote: לּ֥⁠וֹ עֵ֖זֶר כְּ⁠נֶגְדּֽ⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “a helper who is just right for him.” or “someone who is right for him and will help him.”

Genesis 2:19

Now Yahweh God had formed from the ground

Quote: וַ⁠יִּצֶר֩ יְהוָ֨ה אֱלֹהִ֜ים מִן הָֽ⁠אֲדָמָ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

The first sentence of verse 19 is a flashback of what happened before the events in verses 15-18 (which were first recorded in Gen 1:20-21, 24-25). Translate this phrase in a way that makes it clear that this is background information that has already happened. Also see how you translated formed in verses 7-8 and “dust from the ground” in verse 7. Alternate translation: “Now before that, Yahweh God had shaped from the dust on the ground” or “Now previously, he had used dust from the ground to form”

every living thing of the field

Quote: כָּל חַיַּ֤ת הַ⁠שָּׂדֶה֙ (1)

Consider how you translated a similar phrase (“every living creature of the earth”) in Gen 1:24, 30. Alternate translation: “every type of creature that lives in the fields” or “all the different kinds of animals that live in the fields” or “all the different kinds of wild animals”

and every bird of the sky

Quote: וְ⁠אֵת֙ כָּל ע֣וֹף הַ⁠שָּׁמַ֔יִם (1)

See how you translated this phrase in Gen 1:30. Alternate translation: “and every kind of bird that flies in the sky.” or “and all the different kinds of birds that fly in the sky.”

So he brought {them

Quote: וַ⁠יָּבֵא֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

This sentence continues the storyline. Consider how your language continues a story after giving background information. Also consider whether brought or “took” fits best here in your language. Alternate translation: “So he took them all”

to the man

Quote: אֶל הָ֣⁠אָדָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Every translation team needs to decide when to use Adam’s name for the first time in the book of Genesis. The Hebrew word “adam” means man and is also Adam’s name; the choice that is not followed here in your translation could be put in a footnote. Some translations first use Adam’s name here in verse 19, when he is naming the animals. Many other translations start using his name at the end of verse 20. Still other translations wait until 3:20 when he names Eve, and a few other translations begin in 3:9, 17, or 21. Alternate translation: “to Adam”

to see

Quote: לִ⁠רְא֖וֹת (1)

Alternate translation: “to watch” or “to find out”

what he would call them

Quote: מַה יִּקְרָא ל֑⁠וֹ (1)

These names were labels for what kind of animals they were, such as “dog” or “horse”, not personal names like “David” or “Mary”. Alternate translation: “what he would name each one,” or “what names he would give to them,”

and whatever the man called

Quote: וְ⁠כֹל֩ אֲשֶׁ֨ר יִקְרָא ל֧⁠וֹ הָֽ⁠אָדָ֛ם (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “and whatever Adam called” or “Whatever name the man assigned to”

a living creature

Quote: נֶ֥פֶשׁ חַיָּ֖ה (1)

Alternate translation: “each kind of living creature,” or “each type of animal,”

that {was} its name

Quote: ה֥וּא שְׁמֽ⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “that became its name.” or “that became the name of that type of animal.”

Genesis 2:20

And the man gave names to all the livestock

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֨א הָֽ⁠אָדָ֜ם שֵׁמ֗וֹת לְ⁠כָל־הַ⁠בְּהֵמָה֙ (1)

For a note about when to first use Adam’s name, see verse 19. Also, see how you translated livestock in Gen 1:24-26. Alternate translation: “The man assigned names to all the different types of livestock” or “Adam named all the different types of tame animals”

and to the bird{s} of the sky

Quote: וּ⁠לְ⁠ע֣וֹף הַ⁠שָּׁמַ֔יִם (1)

Alternate translation: “and to all the different types of birds that fly in the sky”

and to every living thing of the field

Quote: וּ⁠לְ⁠כֹ֖ל חַיַּ֣ת הַ⁠שָּׂדֶ֑ה (1)

See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 19. Alternate translation: “and to all the other different types of creatures that live in the wild,” or “and to all the wild animals,”

but for the man a suitable helper was not found

Quote: וּ⁠לְ⁠אָדָ֕ם לֹֽא מָצָ֥א עֵ֖זֶר כְּ⁠נֶגְדּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

Consider whether it is more natural in your language to use an active or passive construction here. Also see how you translated a suitable helper in verse 18. Alternate translation: “but he could not find a suitable helper for himself among them.” or “but none of them was a helper who was just right for him.”

Genesis 2:21

So Yahweh God caused a deep sleep to fall on the man

Quote: וַ⁠יַּפֵּל֩ יְהוָ֨ה אֱלֹהִ֧ים תַּרְדֵּמָ֛ה עַל הָ⁠אָדָ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Many languages have a similar idiom for caused a deep sleep to fall on that works well here. Consider what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Then Yahweh God caused the man to go into a deep sleep.” or “Then Yahweh God caused the man to sleep very deeply”

And {while} he was sleeping

Quote: וַ⁠יִּישָׁ֑ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider whether it is best in your language to use a pronoun or a noun here to refer to the man. Alternate translation: “Then while the man was sleeping”

then he took

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקַּ֗ח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider whether to use a pronoun or noun here to refer to God. Make sure it is clear in your translation who is being referred to at each point in this verse. Alternate translation: “he took out”

one of his ribs

Quote: אַחַת֙ מִ⁠צַּלְעֹתָ֔י⁠ו (1)

This phrase is ambiguous in the Hebrew text. It could mean: (1) “one of the man’s ribs from his body/side” or “a rib from the man’s body/side” or (2) “part of the man’s side from his body”

and closed up its place {with} flesh

Quote: וַ⁠יִּסְגֹּ֥ר בָּשָׂ֖ר תַּחְתֶּֽ⁠נָּה (1)

In this context, the term flesh probably includes muscles and skin. Alternate translation: “and filled in the hole where it had been with flesh and healed it.” or “and replaced it with flesh and healed him.”

Genesis 2:22

Then Yahweh God built

Quote: וַ⁠יִּבֶן֩ יְהוָ֨ה אֱלֹהִ֧ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

For many languages it is more natural here to use a pronoun to refer to Yahweh God. Do what is best in your language. After you finish translating a chapter or section, it is a good practice to read that section aloud and listen for what is the best way to refer to God and others at each place in the text. Alternate translation: “Next he” or “After that, he”

Then … built the rib which he had taken from the man into a woman

Quote: וַ⁠יִּבֶן֩ & אֶֽת הַ⁠צֵּלָ֛ע אֲשֶׁר לָקַ֥ח מִן הָֽ⁠אָדָ֖ם לְ⁠אִשָּׁ֑ה (1)

See how you translated rib in verse 21 and see the note about that there. Alternate translation: “used the rib which he taken from the man to construct a woman from it,”

and he brought her to the man

Quote: וַ⁠יְבִאֶ֖⁠הָ אֶל הָֽ⁠אָדָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

See how you translated brought in verse 19. Alternate translation: “Then he took her to the man.”

Genesis 2:23

And the man said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּאמֶר֮ הָֽ⁠אָדָם֒ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Remember to only make implied information explicit in your translation if it helps people understand the text better or if it is necessary to prevent wrong meaning or bad grammar in your language. Alternate translation: “Then the man said” or “When the man saw her, he said” or “When the man woke up and saw the woman, he said”

This {one} now

Quote: זֹ֣את הַ⁠פַּ֗עַם (1)

Alternate translation: “Now there is a person who” or “At last here is a person like me who” or “Ahh! Here is someone like me who”

is} bone from my bones and flesh from my flesh

Quote: עֶ֚צֶם מֵֽ⁠עֲצָמַ֔⁠י וּ⁠בָשָׂ֖ר מִ⁠בְּשָׂרִ֑⁠י (1)

Alternate translation: “was made out of my own bones and flesh!”

She will be called ‘woman

Quote: לְ⁠זֹאת֙ יִקָּרֵ֣א אִשָּׁ֔ה (1)

There is a play-on-words here because the Hebrew word for woman (“ishsha”) is similar to the Hebrew word for man (“ish”). You could put that information in a footnote.

because {it was} from a man {that} she was taken

Quote: כִּ֥י מֵ⁠אִ֖ישׁ לֻֽקֳחָה זֹּֽאת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language. Alternate translation: “because she was taken by God from the body of a man.”

Genesis 2:24

For that {reason

Quote: עַל כֵּן֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “That is why”

a man will leave

Quote: יַֽעֲזָב אִ֔ישׁ (1)

Alternate translation: “a man who marries must leave” or “when a man gets married, he must move away from”

and he will cling to his wife

Quote: וְ⁠דָבַ֣ק בְּ⁠אִשְׁתּ֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This idiom means that the man is committed to his wife and has a close physical relationship with her too. Consider what is the best way to translate this in your language. Alternate translation: “and he must join with his wife,” or “and he must live in close relationship with his wife,”

and they will become

Quote: וְ⁠הָי֖וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual

Some languages have a special dual pronoun for they that fits well here.

one flesh

Quote: לְ⁠בָשָׂ֥ר אֶחָֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase one flesh is an idiom that emphasizes the close physical and spiritual unity between a husband and wife. Other languages may have a similar idiom. Consider how to best communicate this in your language. Alternate translation: “completely one” or “united in body and spirit.” or “united like one person.”

Genesis 2:25

And the man and his wife were both naked

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽהְי֤וּ שְׁנֵי⁠הֶם֙ עֲרוּמִּ֔ים הָֽ⁠אָדָ֖ם וְ⁠אִשְׁתּ֑⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “Now at that time both the man and his wife were naked,” or “At that time the man and his wife did not wear any clothes,”

but they were not ashamed

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֖א יִתְבֹּשָֽׁשׁוּ (1)

Some languages have an idiom for this clause that fits well here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “but yet they were not embarrassed about it.” or “but yet they did not feel embarrassed about being naked.”

Genesis 3

Genesis 3:1

Now the serpent

Quote: וְ⁠הַ⁠נָּחָשׁ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background

The conjunction Now introduces background information about the serpent. See how you translated this conjunction in Gen 2:5, 8, 19.

was more crafty than every living thing of the field

Quote: הָיָ֣ה עָר֔וּם מִ⁠כֹּל֙ חַיַּ֣ת הַ⁠שָּׂדֶ֔ה (1)

Make sure that your translation of crafty means that the snake had evil intent and was clever in a way that was not good. See how you translated living thing of the field in Gen 2:19-20. Alternate translation: “was more deceptive and clever than any of the other creatures that live in the wild”

that Yahweh God had made

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר עָשָׂ֖ה יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)

Make sure your translation of this phrase refers to the animals that God had made, not the fields. Also see how you translated Yahweh God in chapter 2, beginning in verse 4. Alternate translation: “that Yahweh who is God had made” or “that God whose name is Yahweh had made”

And he said to the woman

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אֶל־הָ֣⁠אִשָּׁ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

If you use a pronoun (he) here in your translation, make sure it refers to the serpent, not God. Also, since the snake asked a question, some languages have to be more specific and say “asked” in the quote margin. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “One day the snake went to the woman and asked her,”

Did God really say, ‘You must not eat

Quote: אַ֚ף כִּֽי אָמַ֣ר אֱלֹהִ֔ים לֹ֣א תֹֽאכְל֔וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote. Alternate translation: “Did God actually command you to not eat” or “Is it true that God commanded you not to eat”

from any tree of the garden

Quote: מִ⁠כֹּ֖ל עֵ֥ץ הַ⁠גָּֽן (1)

See how you translated garden in Genesis 2, beginning in verse 8. Alternate translation: “fruit from any of the trees that is in the garden?” or “any fruit from the trees in the garden?”

Genesis 3:2

Then the woman said to the serpent

Quote: וַ⁠תֹּ֥אמֶר הָֽ⁠אִשָּׁ֖ה אֶל הַ⁠נָּחָ֑שׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider what is the best way to translate this quote margin in your language. Alternate translation: “The woman answered the snake,” or “The woman responded to him,” or “The woman replied,”

We may eat

Quote: נֹאכֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

The woman is not including the snake when she says “we” here. Alternate translation: “No, we have permission from God to eat” or “No, God has given us permission to eat”

from the fruit of

Quote: מִ⁠פְּרִ֥י (1)

See how you translated fruit in Gen 1:11-12, 29. Alternate translation: “the fruit from”

the tree{s} of the garden

Quote: עֵֽץ הַ⁠גָּ֖ן (1)

Alternate translation: “all of the trees that are in the garden,” or “any tree in the garden,”

Genesis 3:3

except from the fruit of the tree that {is} in the middle of the garden

Quote: וּ⁠מִ⁠פְּרִ֣י הָ⁠עֵץ֮ אֲשֶׁ֣ר בְּ⁠תוֹךְ הַ⁠גָּן֒ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-versebridge

For some languages it is necessary to put the exception clause first and say, “No, it is only the tree in the middle of the garden that God said we must/may not eat any fruit from, but the fruit of/from all the rest of the trees in the garden we may eat.” Notice that if you follow this example, you must combine verses 2 and 3 and put the verse numbers “2-3” in front of the combination. Alternate translation: “except fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden.” or “except there is one tree that we may not eat fruit from, which is in the center of the garden.”

God said, ‘You must not eat from it

Quote: אָמַ֣ר אֱלֹהִ֗ים לֹ֤א תֹֽאכְלוּ֙ מִמֶּ֔⁠נּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote. Alternate translation: “God told us to not eat any of that fruit,”

and you must not touch it

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֥א תִגְּע֖וּ בּ֑⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “and do not even touch it,”

or else you will die

Quote: פֶּן תְּמֻתֽוּ⁠ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

Make sure the way you translate this clause fits with whether you translated the first part of the sentence as a direct (you) or indirect (“we”) quote. Alternate translation: “because if you do eat it or touch it, you will die!” or “because if we do eat it or touch it, we will die!”

Genesis 3:4

But the serpent said to the woman

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֥אמֶר הַ⁠נָּחָ֖שׁ אֶל־הָֽ⁠אִשָּׁ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

See how you translated serpent in verses 1-2. Alternate translation: “But the snake replied to her,” or “But the snake replied,”

Genesis 3:5

For God knows

Quote: כִּ֚י יֹדֵ֣עַ אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)

The connecting word For introduces an explanation here. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language. Alternate translation: “Actually, he knows” or “The reason God said that is because he knows”

that on the day

Quote: כִּ֗י בְּ⁠יוֹם֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “that if”

you eat from it

Quote: אֲכָלְ⁠כֶ֣ם מִמֶּ֔⁠נּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-dual

The pronouns you and your are plural in this verse and refer to the man and the woman. Some languages have a special dual pronoun for this. Consider again how you translated you and your in verses 1-5. Alternate translation: “you eat any of that fruit,”

then your eyes will be opened

Quote: וְ⁠נִפְקְח֖וּ עֵֽינֵי⁠כֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Consider whether your language has an idiom like your eyes will be opened that would fit well here. Alternate translation: “your mind will be opened” or “you will gain new understanding,” or “you will know new things,”

and you will be like God in knowing good and evil

Quote: וִ⁠הְיִיתֶם֙ כֵּֽ⁠אלֹהִ֔ים יֹדְעֵ֖י ט֥וֹב וָ⁠רָֽע (1)

The Hebrew word “Elohim” is ambiguous in this context. It could mean: (1) God, which is what it means everywhere else in the first 30 chapters of Genesis; or (2) “gods” or “divine beings” or (3) “angels”. See how you translated good and evil in Gen 2:9, 17. Alternate translation: “and as a result you will be like God because you will know what is good and what is evil” or “so that you will know what is good and what is evil just like God does.”

Genesis 3:6

And the woman saw that

Quote: וַ⁠תֵּ֣רֶא הָֽ⁠אִשָּׁ֡ה כִּ֣י (1)

Alternate translation: “The woman observed that”

the tree

Quote: הָ⁠עֵ֨ץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The word tree refers here to the fruit that is produced by that tree. Make sure that is clear in your translation. Alternate translation: “the tree produced fruit that” or “the fruit of that tree”

was} good for food

Quote: טוֹב֩ & לְ⁠מַאֲכָ֜ל (1)

Alternate translation: “was good to eat”

and that it {was} pleasant to the eyes

Quote: וְ⁠כִ֧י תַֽאֲוָה ה֣וּא לָ⁠עֵינַ֗יִם (1)

Alternate translation: “and that the tree itself looked very beautiful,”

and {that} the tree was desirable for gaining wisdom

Quote: וְ⁠נֶחְמָ֤ד הָ⁠עֵץ֙ לְ⁠הַשְׂכִּ֔יל (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “and she thought that the fruit from the tree would make her wise” or “She also desired to eat the fruit so that it would make her wise”

So she took some of its fruit and ate {it

Quote: וַ⁠תִּקַּ֥ח מִ⁠פִּרְי֖⁠וֹ וַ⁠תֹּאכַ֑ל (1)

Alternate translation: “So she took some of the fruit off the tree and ate it.”

and he ate {it

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּאכַֽל (1)

Alternate translation: “and he ate some too.” or “and he also ate it”

Genesis 3:7

Then the eyes of them both were opened

Quote: וַ⁠תִּפָּקַ֨חְנָה֙ עֵינֵ֣י שְׁנֵי⁠הֶ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

An immediate result of their sin was that they realized they were naked, which they had not been aware of before. See how you translated the idiom “eyes … opened” in verse 5. Alternate translation: “Immediately it was as if their minds were opened” or “Immediately they both had new understanding,” or “Immediately they both understood new things,”

and they knew

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֣דְע֔וּ (1)

Alternate translation: “so that they realized” or “so that they became aware”

that they {were} naked

Quote: כִּ֥י עֵֽירֻמִּ֖ם הֵ֑ם (1)

Alternate translation: “that their bodies were bare and they felt ashamed”

So they sewed … together

Quote: וַֽ⁠יִּתְפְּרוּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual

The word for sewed implies here that some type of needle and thread were used. For example, they may have used a thin, sharpened stick for the needle, and plant fibers for the thread. If necessary, you could use a more general term such as “fastened/joined together” or “connected”. Also, some languages have dual pronouns that can be used in verses 7-8 for they and themselves. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “So they joined together”

fig leaves

Quote: עֲלֵ֣ה תְאֵנָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

Historical facts should not be changed in a translation, including the historical fact that Adam and Eve used fig tree leaves to make aprons. If fig trees are not known in your language area, you could say “large leaves from a tree called a fig tree”. Alternate translation: “some large leaves from a fig tree”

and made aprons for themselves

Quote: וַ⁠יַּעֲשׂ֥וּ לָ⁠הֶ֖ם חֲגֹרֹֽת (1)

These aprons/skirts probably covered them from the waist down to somewhere around the knees. Alternate translation: “and used them as aprons to cover their bodies.” or “and wore them around their waists to cover their bodies.” or “and used them to make clothes for themselves.”

Genesis 3:8

Then they heard

Quote: וַֽ⁠יִּשְׁמְע֞וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

For some languages it may be clearer and more natural to put the noun phrase the man and his wife here and then use a pronoun (they) later in this sentence. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Then the man and his wife heard”

the sound of Yahweh God walking

Quote: אֶת ק֨וֹל יְהוָ֧ה אֱלֹהִ֛ים מִתְהַלֵּ֥ךְ (1)

This phrase can refer to the sound of God’s footsteps or to the sound of his voice. Either meaning fits the context well and is followed by many translations.

in the garden

Quote: בַּ⁠גָּ֖ן (1)

Alternate translation: “around in the garden” or “through the garden”

in the breeze of the day

Quote: לְ⁠ר֣וּחַ הַ⁠יּ֑וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This idiom refers to the late afternoon or early evening when there is a breeze blowing and it is cooler. For some languages it is more natural to put this time phrase at the beginning of the sentence. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “late in the afternoon in the breezy time of the day,” or “late that day when there was a cool breeze blowing,”

but the man and his wife hid

Quote: וַ⁠יִּתְחַבֵּ֨א הָֽ⁠אָדָ֜ם וְ⁠אִשְׁתּ֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

If you use the man and his wife earlier in this verse in your translation, consider whether or not a pronoun should be used here. Alternate translation: “so they hid themselves” or “so they tried to hide themselves”

from the presence of Yahweh God

Quote: מִ⁠פְּנֵי֙ יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider what is the best way to refer to Yahweh at this point in the paragraph in your language. Alternate translation: “from Yahweh God” or “from his sight”

among the tree{s} of the garden

Quote: בְּ⁠ת֖וֹךְ עֵ֥ץ הַ⁠גָּֽן (1)

Since the garden is already mentioned earlier in verse 8, for some languages it may be more natural to be general here and say “there”. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “in the midst of the trees in the garden.” or “behind some trees there.”

Genesis 3:9

So Yahweh God called

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֛א יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)

See how you translated this name for God in verses 1 and 8. Alternate translation: “Then Yahweh God called out”

to the man and said to him

Quote: אֶל הָֽ⁠אָדָ֑ם וַ⁠יֹּ֥אמֶר ל֖⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

See the note at Gen 2:19 about when to start using Adam’s name. Also consider what is the best way to translate this quote margin in your language. Alternate translation: “to the man and asked him,” or “to Adam,”

Where {are} you

Quote: אַיֶּֽ⁠כָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

Notice that the word you is singular here because God is only addressing the man.

Genesis 3:10

And he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֕אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “He answered him,”

I heard your sound

Quote: אֶת קֹלְ⁠ךָ֥ שָׁמַ֖עְתִּי (1)

See how you translated sound in verse 8. Alternate translation: “I heard your voice” or “I heard the sound of your voice as you walked”

in the garden

Quote: בַּ⁠גָּ֑ן (1)

Alternate translation: “through the garden,”

but I was afraid because I {was} naked, so I hid

Quote: וָ⁠אִירָ֛א כִּֽי עֵירֹ֥ם אָנֹ֖כִי וָ⁠אֵחָבֵֽא (1)

Alternate translation: “but I was naked, so I felt afraid and I hid from you.” or “but I was naked and afraid that you would see me, so I hid.”

Genesis 3:11

Then he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֕אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Make sure your translation of he refers to Yahweh here, not the man. Alternate translation: “So Yahweh God asked him,”

Who told you that you {were} naked

Quote: מִ֚י הִגִּ֣יד לְ⁠ךָ֔ כִּ֥י עֵירֹ֖ם אָ֑תָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

The pronoun you is still singular here. Alternate translation: “What made you realize that you were naked?” or “How did you find out that you were naked?”

that I commanded you not to eat from

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֧ר צִוִּיתִ֛י⁠ךָ לְ⁠בִלְתִּ֥י אֲכָל מִמֶּ֖⁠נּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

For some languages it is more natural to use a direct quote here for Yahweh’s words. Do what is best in your language.

Genesis 3:12

Then the man said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֖אמֶר הָֽ⁠אָדָ֑ם (1)

Alternate translation: “But the man replied to him,” or “The man answered him,”

The woman whom you gave {to be} with me, she

Quote: הָֽ⁠אִשָּׁה֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר נָתַ֣תָּה עִמָּדִ֔⁠י הִ֛וא (1)

The pronoun she is emphatic in the Hebrew text. That, along with the position of The woman at the beginning of the sentence, shows that the man is strongly emphasizing his blame of the woman. Consider what is the best way to communicate that emphasis in your language. Alternate translation: “The woman whom you put here to live with me, she is the one who” or “It was the woman you gave to me who”

gave me {fruit} from the tree

Quote: נָֽתְנָה לִּ֥⁠י מִן הָ⁠עֵ֖ץ (1)

See how you translated fruit in verses 1-6. Alternate translation: “gave me some fruit from that tree,” or “gave me some of the fruit,”

and I ate {it

Quote: וָ⁠אֹכֵֽל (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “That is why I ate it”

Genesis 3:13

Then Yahweh God said to the woman

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר יְהוָ֧ה אֱלֹהִ֛ים לָ⁠אִשָּׁ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider what is the best way to translate this quote margin in your language. Alternate translation: “So Yahweh God asked the woman,”

What {is} this you have done

Quote: מַה זֹּ֣את עָשִׂ֑ית (1)

God already knew the answer to this question, but he is giving the woman a chance to confess and explain what she did. God’s question probably also implies that he is displeased with what has happened. Alternate translation: “What have you done?” or “Tell me what you have done.”

And the woman said

Quote: וַ⁠תֹּ֨אמֶר֙ הָֽ⁠אִשָּׁ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “But the woman said to him,” or “The woman said” or “She replied,”

The serpent

Quote: הַ⁠נָּחָ֥שׁ (1)

This phrase is emphasized in the Hebrew text. Alternate translation: “It was the snake that”

deceived me

Quote: הִשִּׁיאַ֖⁠נִי (1)

Alternate translation: “lied to me,”

so I ate {it

Quote: וָ⁠אֹכֵֽל (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “so I ate some of that fruit.” or “That is why I ate it”

Genesis 3:14

Because you have done this

Quote: כִּ֣י עָשִׂ֣יתָ זֹּאת֒ (1)

Alternate translation: “Since you did that,” or “Since you tricked the woman,”

you are cursed

Quote: אָר֤וּר אַתָּה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

In this context, cursed involves God punishing the serpent and its descendants, causing them to suffer by crawling along the ground on their bellies and having a hostile relationship with human beings. Make sure that the way you translate this term does not imply the use of magic. Alternate translation: “you are cursed by me” or “I will cause you to suffer” or “I will punish you”

above all the livestock

Quote: מִ⁠כָּל־הַ⁠בְּהֵמָ֔ה (1)

When Adam and Eve sinned and God judged them, the curse and punishment of death and decay also affected everything that was under their authority, including the animals. Here in Gen 3:14, God puts a more severe curse on the serpent (and his descendants) than he put on the rest of the animals. See how you translated livestock in Gen 1:24-26; 2:20. Alternate translation: “more harshly than all the tame animals”

and above every living thing of the field

Quote: וּ⁠מִ⁠כֹּ֖ל חַיַּ֣ת הַ⁠שָּׂדֶ֑ה (1)

See how you translated every living thing of the field in verse 1. Alternate translation: “and more harshly than all the creatures of the fields” or “and more harshly than all the wild animals.”

You will move on your belly

Quote: עַל גְּחֹנְ⁠ךָ֣ תֵלֵ֔ךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “As a result, you will move on the ground on your stomach,”

and you will eat dust

Quote: וְ⁠עָפָ֥ר תֹּאכַ֖ל (1)

Make sure your translation of this clause does not imply that dust or dirt is all the snake will eat. Rather it could mean that dirt will get into his mouth when he eats his food, or it could be an idiom that refers to the fact that as he slithers along, his mouth will always be close to the dirt on the ground (a position of humility). Also see how you translated dust in Gen 2:7. Alternate translation: “and you will eat dirt with your food”

all the days of your life

Quote: כָּל יְמֵ֥י חַיֶּֽי⁠ךָ (1)

Alternate translation: “your entire life.”

Genesis 3:15

I will also put hostility between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring

Quote: וְ⁠אֵיבָ֣ה אָשִׁ֗ית בֵּֽינְ⁠ךָ֙ וּ⁠בֵ֣ין הָֽ⁠אִשָּׁ֔ה וּ⁠בֵ֥ין זַרְעֲ⁠ךָ֖ וּ⁠בֵ֣ין זַרְעָ֑⁠הּ (1)

Alternate translation: “I will also cause you and the woman to be enemies with each other, and your offspring and her offspring to also be enemies.”

He

Quote: ה֚וּא (1)

The pronoun He is ambiguous here. It could refer to: (1) the woman’s descendant (Jesus) who would one day come to earth as the Messiah/Christ; or (2) the woman’s descendants who will constantly be enemies of the snake’s descendants. If you follow the first interpretation, this would be the first prophecy in the Bible about the Messiah/Christ (“the Anointed One” or “the Promised Savior King”) who would come to earth and destroy Satan’s power (Hebrews 2:14). You could include that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: “In fact, her offspring” or “In fact, one of her descendants”

will strike you {on} the head, and you will strike him {on} the heel

Quote: יְשׁוּפְ⁠ךָ֣ רֹ֔אשׁ וְ⁠אַתָּ֖ה תְּשׁוּפֶ֥⁠נּוּ עָקֵֽב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

This is figurative language that Satan will harm the Messiah, but the Messiah will destroy him. For some languages it is better to switch the order of these clauses and say, “In fact, you will strike/bite/bruise the heel of one of her descendants, but he will strike/crush your head.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “will crush your head, and you will bruise his heel.”

Genesis 3:16

To the woman he said

Quote: אֶֽל הָ⁠אִשָּׁ֣ה אָמַ֗ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In the Hebrew text, “to the woman” comes first in this sentence, to emphasize her. Do what is natural in your language. Also consider what is the best way to refer to God here in your language. Alternate translation: “Then he said to the woman,” or “Then Yahweh God turned to the woman and said to her,”

I will greatly multiply your pain

Quote: הַרְבָּ֤ה אַרְבֶּה֙ עִצְּבוֹנֵ֣⁠ךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “I will cause you to have much pain” or “I will cause it to be very painful”

in pain you will bear children

Quote: בְּ⁠עֶ֖צֶב תֵּֽלְדִ֣י בָנִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

This clause is the second part of a parallelism, which emphasizes the pain and suffering that women will experience when they bear children. If possible, it is best to keep both parts of the parallelism in your translation. Alternate translation: “yes you will suffer much pain when you give birth.” or “yes bearing children will be very painful for you.”

Yet your desire {will be} for your husband

Quote: וְ⁠אֶל אִישֵׁ⁠ךְ֙ תְּשׁ֣וּקָתֵ֔⁠ךְ (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here, because the conjunctions and the idiom your desire will be for your husband are all ambiguous in this context. The text could mean: (1) “Yet/But you will still desire/long to be with your husband, and he …”, which is similar to what desire means in Song of Songs 7:10; or (2) “Besides that, you will desire/want to control your husband, but he …”, which is similar to what desire means in Gen 4:7. The interpretation that is not followed in your translation could be put in a footnote.

and he will rule over you

Quote: וְ⁠ה֖וּא יִמְשָׁל בָּֽ⁠ךְ (1)

See how you translated rule over in Gen 1:18. It may be necessary to translate this term differently here because of the negative context of the curse and the consequences of sin. Alternate translation: “and he will control you.” or “and he will lord it over you.”

Genesis 3:17

Then to the man he said

Quote: וּ⁠לְ⁠אָדָ֣ם אָמַ֗ר (1)

In the Hebrew text, the phrase to the man is emphasized. See how you translated a similar case (“to the woman”) in verse 16. For a note about when to start using Adam’s name in your translation, see Gen 2:19. Alternate translation: “Next God said to the man,” or “Next Yahweh God turned to Adam and said to him,”

Since you listened to the voice of your wife

Quote: כִּֽי־שָׁמַעְתָּ֮ לְ⁠ק֣וֹל אִשְׁתֶּ⁠ךָ֒ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

This phrase means that Adam heard what his wife said to him and then did what she said. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: “Since you disobeyed me and did what your wife said” or “Since you did what your wife told you to do”

that I commanded you, saying, ‘You must not eat from it

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֤ר צִוִּיתִ֨י⁠ךָ֙ לֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר לֹ֥א תֹאכַ֖ל מִמֶּ֑⁠נּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote. Also see how you translated this command in verse 3. Alternate translation: “that I commanded you to not eat any fruit from.”

the ground is cursed because of you

Quote: אֲרוּרָ֤ה הָֽ⁠אֲדָמָה֙ בַּֽ⁠עֲבוּרֶ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to break up this long sentence and say, “You did what your wife said and ate fruit from the tree that I commanded you not to eat any fruit from. Because of what you did, I have cursed the ground.” Also see how you translated cursed in verse 14. Alternate translation: “the ground is cursed by me because of what you did.” or “I have cursed the ground because you sinned.”

By painful toil you will eat {from} it

Quote: בְּ⁠עִצָּבוֹן֙ תֹּֽאכֲלֶ֔⁠נָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Alternate translation: “As a result, only by painful toil will you eat any food from it” or “As a result, you will have to work very hard and suffer to get enough food to eat”

all the days of your life

Quote: כֹּ֖ל יְמֵ֥י חַיֶּֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it is better to put this phrase before the previous clause and say, “As a result, for as long as you live, you will have to work very hard and suffer to grow/get enough food to eat.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “every day of your life.” or “for your entire life.”

Genesis 3:18

And it will produce thorn{s} and thistle{s

Quote: וְ⁠ק֥וֹץ וְ⁠דַרְדַּ֖ר תַּצְמִ֣יחַֽ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The thorn and thistle plants represent all types of weeds, which are useless and possibly harmful plants. Alternate translation: “In fact, the ground will produce thorn plants and thistle plants and other weeds” or “In fact, thorn bushes and thistle plants and other weeds will grow from the ground”

for you, and you will eat the plant{s} of the field{s

Quote: לָ֑⁠ךְ וְ⁠אָכַלְתָּ֖ אֶת עֵ֥שֶׂב הַ⁠שָּׂדֶֽה (1)

The Hebrew text here could mean: (1) “and make it difficult for you to grow enough crops in the/your fields for food.” or “so that you will have to work very hard in your fields to grow/produce enough crops/food to eat.” or (2) “so that your crops will not grow well and you will have to eat wild plants that grow in the open fields to survive.” That difference of interpretation comes from the fact that the Hebrew word fields can refer to land that people cultivate or to uncultivated land where wild plants grow.

Genesis 3:19

By the sweat of your nose you will eat bread

Quote: בְּ⁠זֵעַ֤ת אַפֶּ֨י⁠ךָ֙ תֹּ֣אכַל לֶ֔חֶם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase “by the sweat of your nose/brow” is an idiom that refers to hard physical labor. Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom. Also, bread was one of the main food staples for that time and culture, so the Hebrew word for bread is used here as an idiom that refers to all food, not just bread. Consider whether your language does something similar, using one type of food (such as bread, rice or potatoes) to refer to all food in general. Or you could use a general term like “food,” especially if bread is rare or expensive in your language area. Alternate translation: “Only by the sweat of your face will you be able to have enough food to eat,” or “You will have to work hard and sweat a lot in order to have enough food to eat,”

until you return to the ground

Quote: עַ֤ד שֽׁוּבְ⁠ךָ֙ אֶל הָ֣⁠אֲדָמָ֔ה (1)

Alternate translation: “until you die and again become dust”

since from it you were taken

Quote: כִּ֥י מִמֶּ֖⁠נָּה לֻקָּ֑חְתָּ (1)

Alternate translation: “which you were made from by me.” or “which I took you from.” or “which I made you out of.”

For

Quote: כִּֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

This sentence rephrases and emphasizes what God just said. Alternate translation: “Indeed,”

you {are} dust

Quote: עָפָ֣ר אַ֔תָּה (1)

Alternate translation: “your bodies were made by me from dust” or “I made you out of dust”

and to dust you will return

Quote: וְ⁠אֶל עָפָ֖ר תָּשֽׁוּב (1)

Alternate translation: “so dust is what you will become again after you die.”

Genesis 3:20

Then the man called the name of his wife

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֧א הָֽ⁠אָדָ֛ם שֵׁ֥ם אִשְׁתּ֖⁠וֹ (1)

Some translations use Adam’s name here because he is naming Eve. See what you did in verse 17. Alternate translation: “Then Adam called his wife” or “Then the man gave his wife the name”

Eve

Quote: חַוָּ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

If you include the meaning of Eve’s name in your translation or in a footnote, make sure it is similar to the word in the following clause that has the same meaning (living), so that it is clear why Eve was given that name. The meaning of names is important in the Hebrew language, and this translation issue occurs frequently in the book of Genesis.

because

Quote: כִּ֛י (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “He did that because”

she was the mother of

Quote: הִ֥וא הָֽיְתָ֖ה אֵ֥ם (1)

Alternate translation: “she would be the ancestor of”

all the living

Quote: כָּל חָֽי (1)

Alternate translation: “all the people who would ever live.”

Genesis 3:21

Then Yahweh God made garments of {animal} skins

Quote: וַ⁠יַּעַשׂ֩ יְהוָ֨ה אֱלֹהִ֜ים & כָּתְנ֥וֹת ע֖וֹר (1)

Alternate translation: “Then Yahweh God made some garments out of animal skins” or “Then Yahweh God used some animal hides to make some garments”

for Adam and his wife

Quote: לְ⁠אָדָ֧ם וּ⁠לְ⁠אִשְׁתּ֛⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “for Adam and his wife Eve,” or “for the man and his wife,”

and he clothed them

Quote: וַ⁠יַּלְבִּשֵֽׁ⁠ם (1)

Alternate translation: “and he dressed them.” or “and he put the garments on them.”

Genesis 3:22

Then Yahweh God said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider what is the best way to refer to Yahweh God in your language at this point in the paragraph. Also, see how you translated a similar quote margin in Gen 1:26, where said has the same meaning. Alternate translation: “Then he said” or “Then he said to himself,”

Behold

Quote: הֵ֤ן (1)

This word expresses emotion and calls attention to what God says next. See how you translated this term in Gen 1:29. Alternate translation: “Listen,”

the man

Quote: הָֽ⁠אָדָם֙ (1)

Throughout verses 22-24 the man represents mankind, which included both the man and the woman at this point. Make sure your translation communicates that clearly in those verses and does not just refer to Adam. Alternate translation: “the man and his wife” or “mankind” or “human beings”

has become like one of us

Quote: הָיָה֙ כְּ⁠אַחַ֣ד מִמֶּ֔⁠נּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

The pronoun us is inclusive because God is talking to himself. Alternate translation: “have become like us”

in knowing good and evil

Quote: לָ⁠דַ֖עַת ט֣וֹב וָ⁠רָ֑ע (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 5 and a similar phrase in Gen 2:9.

And now he must not reach out his hand and also take

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֣ה פֶּן יִשְׁלַ֣ח יָד֗⁠וֹ וְ⁠לָקַח֙ גַּ֚ם (1)

See how you translated “took/picked … fruit” in verse 6. Alternate translation: “So now, they must not be allowed by us to also pick” or “So we must not allow them to also pick” or “So now we must do something so that they can not also pick”

fruit} from the tree of life and eat it

Quote: מֵ⁠עֵ֣ץ הַֽ⁠חַיִּ֔ים וְ⁠אָכַ֖ל (1)

See how you translated the tree of life in Gen 2:9. Alternate translation: “fruit from the tree of eternal life and eat some of it,”

and live forever

Quote: וָ⁠חַ֥י לְ⁠עֹלָֽם (1)

Alternate translation: “and so live forever!” or “which would make them live forever!”

Genesis 3:23

So Yahweh God sent him

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְשַׁלְּחֵ֛⁠הוּ יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)

Notice that in verses 22-24, “the man”, him, and he refer to mankind, that is, the man and the woman. Make sure it is clear in your translation here that both of them were sent out of the garden, not just the man. Consider again how you translated Yahweh God in Genesis 2 and 3, and see the note about this at Gen 2:4. Some languages have dual pronouns that are used for “they” and “them” in verses 22-24. Alternate translation: “Then Yahweh God banished the man and his wife” or “So then Yahweh God forced them to leave”

out of the Garden of Eden

Quote: מִ⁠גַּן עֵ֑דֶן (1)

See how you translated this phrase in Gen 2:15. Alternate translation: “the garden in the land of Eden”

to work the ground

Quote: לַֽ⁠עֲבֹד֙ אֶת הָ֣⁠אֲדָמָ֔ה (1)

See how you translated work the ground in Gen 2:5 and “work it” in 2:15. Alternate translation: “to farm the land”

which he had been taken from

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר לֻקַּ֖ח מִ⁠שָּֽׁם (1)

It does not refer to the exact ground that he was made from. See how you translated taken from in verse 19. Alternate translation: “which they had been taken from by him” or “which he had taken them from.”

Genesis 3:24

And after he drove the man out

Quote: וַ⁠יְגָ֖רֶשׁ אֶת הָֽ⁠אָדָ֑ם (1)

Alternate translation: “Then after God drove the man and his wife out of the garden,” or “After God banished them from the garden,”

then he placed

Quote: וַ⁠יַּשְׁכֵּן֩ (1)

Alternate translation: “then he stationed”

on the east side of the Garden of Eden

Quote: מִ⁠קֶּ֨דֶם לְ⁠גַן עֵ֜דֶן (1)

It is implied that the entrance to the garden is where the cherubim were placed to keep everyone from ever entering the garden again. Consider again how you translated “garden” in Gen 2:8-10, 15-16; 3:1-3, 8, 10, 23-24. Alternate translation: “on the east side of the garden at its entrance” or “at the entrance to the garden, which was on its east side”

cherubim {angels

Quote: אֶת הַ⁠כְּרֻבִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

Most translations transliterate or borrow this term from Hebrew throughout the Bible. Cherubim are a special category of very powerful angels. Each one has four faces: a human face, a lion’s face, a bull’s face and an eagle’s face (Ezekiel 1:10; 10:14). Each of them also has multiple wings. You could include some of that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: “some powerful beings called cherubim angels”

and a flaming sword

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֨ת לַ֤הַט הַ⁠חֶ֨רֶב֙ (1)

A sword is a weapon that has a very long, sharp (often two-sided) blade that is longer than a knife, machete, or dagger and is attached to a hilt or handle. This sword may have had flames coming from it, or this may have been fire in the shape of a sword. Alternate translation: “and a fiery sword” or “and a sword made of flames”

that was turning in every direction

Quote: הַ⁠מִּתְהַפֶּ֔כֶת (1)

It seems that the sword was swinging by itself since there is no mention of anyone holding it. Alternate translation: “that was turning around in all directions” or “that was flashing back and forth”

to guard the way of

Quote: לִ⁠שְׁמֹ֕ר אֶת דֶּ֖רֶךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “to keep everyone away from the way that leads to” or “so that no one could go near”

the tree of life

Quote: עֵ֥ץ הַֽ⁠חַיִּֽים (1)

See how you translated this phrase in Gen 2:9 and 3:22. Alternate translation: “the tree of eternal life.” or “the tree whose fruit gives people eternal life.”

Genesis 4

Genesis 4:1

Then the man

Quote: וְ⁠הָ֣⁠אָדָ֔ם (1)

For a note about when to begin referring to the man as Adam, see Gen 2:19. Alternate translation: “Then the man Adam”

knew Eve his wife

Quote: יָדַ֖ע אֶת חַוָּ֣ה אִשְׁתּ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

This phrase is a Hebrew idiom that means Adam had marital/sexual relations with Eve. Many languages have a similar idiom. Make sure you translate this in a way that is polite and will not offend or embarrass people, especially when read aloud. Alternate translation: “slept with his wife Eve,” or “was intimate with his wife Eve,”

and she conceived and bore

Quote: וַ⁠תַּ֨הַר֙ וַ⁠תֵּ֣לֶד (1)

Translate this clause in a way that will not embarrass people, especially when read aloud. Alternate translation: “so that she became pregnant and later gave birth to”

Cain

Quote: אֶת קַ֔יִן (1)

You could include the meaning of Cain’s name in your translation or in a footnote. See what you did for a similar case in Gen 3:20.

And she said

Quote: וַ⁠תֹּ֕אמֶר (1)

This sentence explains how Cain got his name. Make sure that is clear in your translation. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “because she exclaimed,” or “They named him that because Eve had said”

I have obtained

Quote: קָנִ֥יתִי (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “I have obtained/acquired” or (2) “I have produced/created”. If you include the meaning of Cain’s name earlier in this verse in your translation or in a footnote, make sure it matches your choice here so that it is clear why he was given that name.

a man

Quote: אִ֖ישׁ (1)

For some languages it is confusing to refer to a newborn baby as a man. Do what is clear and natural in your language. Alternate translation: “a male child” or “a boy” or “a baby boy”

with Yahweh

Quote: אֶת יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it is more natural to put this phrase earlier in this sentence and say, “With Yahweh’s help I have obtained/acquired a son!” or “Yahweh has enabled/helped me to obtain/get a son!” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “with help from Yahweh!”

Genesis 4:2

Then she continued on to bear

Quote: וַ⁠תֹּ֣סֶף לָ⁠לֶ֔דֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. Cain and Abel may have been twins, or Abel may have been born sometime later after Eve became pregnant again. If possible, translate verse 2 in a way that allows for either interpretation. Also, consider whether it is better in your language to use a pronoun or a noun to refer to Eve here. Alternate translation: “Then she also gave birth to” or “After that, Eve gave birth to”

his brother

Quote: אֶת אָחִ֖י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

Some languages have a specific term for “younger brother” that can be used here. Do what is best in your language.

Abel

Quote: אֶת הָ֑בֶל (1)

Alternate translation: “whose name was Abel.”

Now Abel became

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי הֶ֨בֶל֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background

This sentence introduces background information for what happens next. Consider what is the best way to begin this sentence in your language. Also, It is implied here that the boys had grown up to be adults. If necessary, you could make that explicit in your translation. Alternate translation: “Now when the boys had grown up, Abel”

a keeper of flock{s

Quote: רֹ֣עֵה צֹ֔אן (1)

A flock can be a large group of sheep or goats, or a mixture of both. Alternate translation: “was a keeper of sheep,” or “was a shepherd,” or “raised sheep and goats,”

and Cain

Quote: וְ⁠קַ֕יִן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

Consider what is the best way in your language to contrast Cain and his work with Abel and his work. Alternate translation: “but Cain”

became a worker of the ground

Quote: הָיָ֖ה עֹבֵ֥ד אֲדָמָֽה (1)

Cain raised crops, not animals. See how you translated a similar phrase (“work the ground”) in Gen 2:5. Alternate translation: “was a tiller of the soil.” or “was a crop farmer.” or “grew food crops.”

Genesis 4:3

And it happened in the course of days

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִ֖י מִ⁠קֵּ֣ץ יָמִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

These phrases introduce an important new event. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language. Alternate translation: “Then one day it happened that” or “As time went on one day”

that Cain brought

Quote: וַ⁠יָּבֵ֨א קַ֜יִן (1)

Alternate translation: “Cain offered”

some of the fruit of the ground

Quote: מִ⁠פְּרִ֧י הָֽ⁠אֲדָמָ֛ה (1)

The word fruit is general here and refers to any edible plant or crop that grows as the result of being cultivated. Make sure that is clear in your translation. Alternate translation: “some of the crops that he had raised in his fields” or “some of the edible plants that he had harvested from his fields”

as} an offering to Yahweh

Quote: מִנְחָ֖ה לַֽ⁠יהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

The term offering refers to something that is given. Alternate translation: “to Yahweh as an gift to worship him.”

Genesis 4:4

And Abel also brought

Quote: וְ⁠הֶ֨בֶל הֵבִ֥יא גַם (1)

There is a contrast between Abel and Cain and between their offerings. Alternate translation: “Abel also offered an offering to Yahweh, but what he gave was” or “But Abel gave to Yahweh”

some of the firstborn of his flock{s

Quote: מִ⁠בְּכֹר֥וֹת צֹאנ֖⁠וֹ (1)

See how you translated flocks in verse 2. Alternate translation: “some of the firstborn animals from his sheep”

and some of their fat

Quote: וּ⁠מֵֽ⁠חֶלְבֵ⁠הֶ֑ן (1)

In that culture, fat was considered one of the best parts of an animal to eat. If that is different from how fat is viewed in your language area, that information could be put in a footnote. Alternate translation: “and some of the fat portions of the meat.” or “and some of their best parts.” or “and the best parts of the meat.”

And Yahweh looked {favorably} on

Quote: וַ⁠יִּ֣שַׁע יְהוָ֔ה אֶל (1)

Alternate translation: “Yahweh was happy with” or “Yahweh accepted”

Abel and his offering

Quote: הֶ֖בֶל וְ⁠אֶל מִנְחָתֽ⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “Abel and his sacrifice.” or “Abel and what he gave to him.”

Genesis 4:5

But he did not look {favorably} on Cain

Quote: וְ⁠אֶל קַ֥יִן & לֹ֣א שָׁעָ֑ה (1)

See how you translated “looked favorably on” in verse 4. Alternate translation: “But Yahweh was not happy with Cain” or “However, he did not accept Cain”

and his offering

Quote: וְ⁠אֶל מִנְחָת֖⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “and his gift” or “and what he gave to him.”

So Cain burned with intense anger

Quote: וַ⁠יִּ֤חַר לְ⁠קַ֨יִן֙ מְאֹ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Many languages have a similar idiom that fits well here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “So Cain was extremely angry,”

and his face fell

Quote: וַֽ⁠יִּפְּל֖וּ פָּנָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Alternate translation: “and his face showed that he was angry” or “and he scowled.” or “and his face showed it.”

Genesis 4:6

Then Yahweh said to Cain

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֥אמֶר יְהוָ֖ה אֶל קָ֑יִן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

The way you translate this quote margin should fit with the way that you translated the following three rhetorical questions. Alternate translation: “Then Yahweh asked Cain”

Why are you burning with anger? And why is your face fallen

Quote: לָ֚⁠מָּה חָ֣רָה לָ֔⁠ךְ וְ⁠לָ֖⁠מָּה נָפְל֥וּ פָנֶֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

God is using these rhetorical questions to correct Cain. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Also see how you translated the idioms “burned with … anger” and “face fell” in verse 5. Alternate translation: “Why are you so angry? And why are you scowling?” or “There is no reason for you to be angry and scowling.”

Genesis 4:7

will {you} not {be} accepted

Quote: הֲ⁠ל֤וֹא & שְׂאֵ֔ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

God uses this rhetorical question here to remind Cain of something that he already knew. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language. Alternate translation: “you know that you will be accepted by me.” or “you know that I will be pleased with you and your gift too.” or “I will accept you and your gift too.”

But if you do not do right

Quote: וְ⁠אִם֙ לֹ֣א תֵיטִ֔יב (1)

Alternate translation: “But if you do what is wrong,”

sin is crouching

Quote: חַטָּ֣את רֹבֵ֑ץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

In verse 7 sin is personified, that is, it is treated as if it were alive, like a lion or some other fierce animal that wants to attack Cain. Some languages can do the same thing. Other languages cannot do that and must say something like: “then you are in great danger of being tempted to sin, but you must resist and not give in.” Alternate translation: “then sin is like a dangerous animal that is waiting” or “then sin will be waiting like a wild animal”

at the door

Quote: לַ⁠פֶּ֖תַח (1)

Alternate translation: “outside the door of your heart to tempt you,”

and its desire {is} for you

Quote: וְ⁠אֵלֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ תְּשׁ֣וּקָת֔⁠וֹ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Sin wants to destroy you,”

but you must rule over it

Quote: וְ⁠אַתָּ֖ה תִּמְשָׁל בּֽ⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “but you must master it so that you do not sin.” or “but you must keep it from destroying you.” or “but you must keep it from doing that.”

Genesis 4:8

Then Cain spoke

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֥אמֶר קַ֖יִן (1)

After God spoke to Cain, we do not know how long Cain waited before he spoke to Abel; it may have been a few hours or a few days. Alternate translation: “Later Cain spoke”

to Abel his brother

Quote: אֶל הֶ֣בֶל אָחִ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

This sentence is what the Hebrew text has. Instead of that text, some ancient manuscripts and translations (including the Samaritan Pentateuch, Septuagint, Latin Vulgate, and Syriac) and many modern translations have: “Then Cain said to Abel his brother, “Let’s go out to the field and work together.” ” or “Then Cain invited/asked his brother Abel to go out to the field with him to work.” Some translation teams follow the way this verse is translated in a well-known translation, such as in the national language or in a neighboring language. Decide what to do in your translation. The textual variant that you do not use in your translation could be put in a footnote. Alternate translation: “with his brother Abel.”

And it happened while they were in the field

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי֙ בִּ⁠הְיוֹתָ֣⁠ם בַּ⁠שָּׂדֶ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

For some languages it is necessary to make explicit that Cain and Abel actually went to the field. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “So they went out to the field to work together, but while they were there,”

Abel his brother

Quote: הֶ֣בֶל אָחִ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The Hebrew text keeps repeating the phrase Abel his brother to emphasize the seriousness of Cain’s crime. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language. See how you translated brother in verse 2. Alternate translation: “his own brother Abel” or “his own brother”

Genesis 4:9

Then Yahweh said to Cain

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר יְהוָה֙ אֶל קַ֔יִן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “Then Yahweh asked Cain,”

Where {is} Abel your brother

Quote: אֵ֖י הֶ֣בֶל אָחִ֑י⁠ךָ (1)

See how you translated “Abel … brother” in verse 8.

And he replied

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Cain is answering Yahweh rudely. Consider what is the best way to translate this quote margin in your language, including whether or not to use a conjunction here. Alternate translation: “Then He said to him,” or “He answered him,” or “He retorted,”

I do not know

Quote: לֹ֣א יָדַ֔עְתִּי (1)

Alternate translation: “How should I know that?”

Am I my brother’s keeper

Quote: הֲ⁠שֹׁמֵ֥ר אָחִ֖⁠י אָנֹֽכִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Cain uses this rhetorical question to support the lie that he just told. His response to God is rude and disrespectful. Consider whether or not a rhetorical question communicates that here in your language. Alternate translation: “Am I in charge of my brother?” or “Is it my responsibility to take care of my brother?”

Genesis 4:10

Then he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֖אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Make sure that your translation of this phrase refers to Yahweh, not Cain. Alternate translation: “Then Yahweh asked”

What have you done

Quote: מֶ֣ה עָשִׂ֑יתָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

God uses this rhetorical question to condemn what Cain had done. Consider whether or not a rhetorical question works well here in your language. Alternate translation: “What you have done is very horrible” or “You have done a horrible thing!”

The voice of your brother’s blood is crying out to me from the ground

Quote: ק֚וֹל דְּמֵ֣י אָחִ֔י⁠ךָ צֹעֲקִ֥ים אֵלַ֖⁠י מִן הָֽ⁠אֲדָמָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

In the Hebrew text, blood is personified, as if it had a voice or could cry out like a person does. If it is not possible to do that in your language, you could say that his brother’s blood is “like a voice …” or you could translate this sentence without personification.

Genesis 4:11

So now

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֖ה (1)

Alternate translation: “Therefore from now on” or “Because of what you did,”

you are cursed

Quote: אָר֣וּר אָ֑תָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language. Also see how you translated this in Gen 3:14. Alternate translation: “you are cursed by me”

from the ground

Quote: מִן הָֽ⁠אֲדָמָה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Alternate translation: “so that you will not be able to grow food from the soil,” or “so that you are banished from farming the soil,”

which has opened its mouth to receive your brother’s blood

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר פָּצְתָ֣ה אֶת פִּ֔י⁠הָ לָ⁠קַ֛חַת אֶת דְּמֵ֥י אָחִ֖י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

In the Hebrew text, the ground is personified as if it had a mouth to open. If that is not possible in your language, you could follow one of the alternates above. Alternate translation: “which is covered with blood from your brother”

from your hand

Quote: מִ⁠יָּדֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)

Alternate translation: “when you killed him.”

Genesis 4:12

When

Quote: כִּ֤י (1)

Alternate translation: “As a result, whenever”

you work the ground

Quote: תַֽעֲבֹד֙ אֶת הָ֣⁠אֲדָמָ֔ה (1)

See how you translated work the ground in Gen 2:5 and 3:23; also see similar phrases in 4:2, 11. Alternate translation: “you try to farm the soil,”

it will not continue to yield its strength for you

Quote: לֹֽא תֹסֵ֥ף תֵּת כֹּחָ֖⁠הּ לָ֑⁠ךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “it will no longer grow good crops for you.” or “it will not grow enough food for you anymore.”

You will be

Quote: תִּֽהְיֶ֥ה (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “and you will also”

You will be a fugitive and a wanderer on the earth

Quote: נָ֥ע וָ⁠נָ֖ד תִּֽהְיֶ֥ה בָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

The phrase a fugitive and a wanderer forms a hendiadys. Consider what is the best way to translate that phrase in your language. Alternate translation: “be a fugitive who wanders around on the earth without a permanent home.” or “be a homeless outcast on the earth.” or “be rejected by people so that you have no permanent home and have to move from place to place.”

Genesis 4:13

Then Cain said to Yahweh

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֥אמֶר קַ֖יִן אֶל יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “But Cain replied to him,”

My punishment {is} greater

Quote: גָּד֥וֹל עֲוֺנִ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

Alternate translation: “Your punishment of me will cause me more suffering” or “You are punishing me more harshly”

than I can bear

Quote: מִ⁠נְּשֹֽׂא (1)

Alternate translation: “than I am able to cope with.”

Genesis 4:14

Behold

Quote: הֵן֩ (1)

This term emphasizes what Cain says next. See how you translated this term in Gen 1:29 and 3:22. It may be necessary to translate it in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: “Listen,”

today you are driving me

Quote: גֵּרַ֨שְׁתָּ אֹתִ֜⁠י הַ⁠יּ֗וֹם (1)

See how you translated “drove/expelled” in Gen 3:24. Alternate translation: “today you are forcing me away” or “you have now prevented me”

from the surface of the ground

Quote: מֵ⁠עַל֙ פְּנֵ֣י הָֽ⁠אֲדָמָ֔ה (1)

Alternate translation: “from working the land”

and I will be hidden from your presence

Quote: וּ⁠מִ⁠פָּנֶ֖י⁠ךָ אֶסָּתֵ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This clause is probably an idiom that means Cain will be cursed and no longer blessed by God. Alternate translation: “and I will be separated from you.” or “and you will no longer bless me.”

And I will be a fugitive and a wanderer on the earth

Quote: וְ⁠הָיִ֜יתִי נָ֤ע וָ⁠נָד֙ בָּ⁠אָ֔רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

See how you translated this phrase in verse 12. Alternate translation: “I will be a fugitive who wanders around on the earth without a permanent home,” or “I will be a wandering outcast on the earth,”

everyone who finds me will kill me

Quote: כָל מֹצְאִ֖⁠י יַֽהַרְגֵֽ⁠נִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Cain uses hyperbole here to emphasize his strong emotion. If possible, keep this hyperbole in your translation because it helps communicate how fearful Cain was feeling. Alternate translation: “anyone who meets me will kill me!”

Genesis 4:15

Then Yahweh said to him

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֧אמֶר ל֣⁠וֹ יְהוָ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “So Yahweh said to him” or “Yahweh said to Cain,”

For that {reason

Quote: לָ⁠כֵן֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

That is what the Hebrew text has. Instead of that text, some ancient translations (such as the Septuagint) and many modern translations have: “Not so/true.” or “That will not happen because”. The textual variant that you do not use in your translation could be put in a footnote. Alternate translation: “In that case,”

anyone who kills Cain will suffer vengeance

Quote: כָּל הֹרֵ֣ג קַ֔יִן & יֻקָּ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

What God says here implies that he will do something to prevent people from killing Cain; he is not just talking about punishing them if they kill him. If necessary, you could make that explicit in your translation. Alternate translation: “I will warn everyone that if anyone kills you, I will take revenge on him for you” or “I will make it clear to everyone that I will take revenge on anyone who kills you”

Then Yahweh put a mark on Cain

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֨שֶׂם יְהוָ֤ה לְ⁠קַ֨יִן֙ א֔וֹת (1)

We do not know exactly how Yahweh marked Cain, so keep your translation of this clause general (like the Hebrew text is). Alternate translation: “Then he put a special symbol on Cain” or “Then he marked Cain with a special mark”

so that everyone who found him would not strike him

Quote: לְ⁠בִלְתִּ֥י הַכּוֹת אֹת֖⁠וֹ כָּל מֹצְאֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase strike him is used here as an idiom that means “kill him”. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “so that anyone who saw him would not kill him.” or “to warn everyone who saw him not to kill him.”

Genesis 4:16

Then Cain went away

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֥צֵא קַ֖יִן (1)

Alternate translation: “After that, Cain went away”

from the presence of Yahweh

Quote: מִ⁠לִּ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is everywhere, so this probably means that after talking to Yahweh, Cain left that place. Alternate translation: “from Yahweh” or “from the place where Yahweh had been talking to him”

and lived

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֥שֶׁב (1)

Alternate translation: “and settled” or “and started living”

in the land of Nod

Quote: בְּ⁠אֶֽרֶץ נ֖וֹד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The original readers of the Hebrew text knew that the name Nod means “wandering”. Usually translators transliterate (copy or borrow) the name from the Hebrew text, and they might also include the meaning of the name in the text or in a footnote. If you do that here, the meaning should be similar to how you translated “wanderer” in verses 12 and 14.

east of Eden

Quote: קִדְמַת עֵֽדֶן (1)

Consider again how you translated “the land/region of Eden” and “the Garden of Eden” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 2:8, 10, 15; 3:23-24; 4:16. Alternate translation: “which was east of the land called Eden.” or “which was east of Eden Land.”

Genesis 4:17

Then Cain knew his wife

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֤דַע קַ֨יִן֙ אֶת אִשְׁתּ֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

See how you translated this idiom in Gen 4:1. Alternate translation: “Then Cain slept with his wife,”

and she conceived and bore

Quote: וַ⁠תַּ֖הַר וַ⁠תֵּ֣לֶד (1)

See how you translated this phrase in Gen 4:1. Alternate translation: “so that she became pregnant and gave birth to”

Enoch

Quote: אֶת חֲנ֑וֹךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Alternate translation: “a son named Enoch.” or “a son whose name was Enoch.”

And he was building a city

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי֙ בֹּ֣נֶה עִ֔יר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Make sure that your translation of this clause refers to Cain, not Enoch. Alternate translation: “Now at that time, Cain was in the process of constructing a city,”

so he called the name of the city

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָא֙ שֵׁ֣ם הָ⁠עִ֔יר (1)

Alternate translation: “so he called the city”

after the name of his son Enoch

Quote: כְּ⁠שֵׁ֖ם בְּנ֥⁠וֹ חֲנֽוֹךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “Enoch, after his son.” or “Enoch, the same name as his son.”

Genesis 4:18

Then to Enoch was born

Quote: וַ⁠יִּוָּלֵ֤ד לַֽ⁠חֲנוֹךְ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

In this record of Cain’s descendants, It is implied that many years have gone by between each descendant growing up, getting married, and having his own children. Decide the best way to translate this genealogical record in your language. Alternate translation: “Later on, Enoch had” or “When Enoch grew up, he fathered” or “Enoch was the father of”

Irad

Quote: אֶת עִירָ֔ד (1)

Alternate translation: “a son whose name was Irad,”

and Irad fathered

Quote: וְ⁠עִירָ֕ד יָלַ֖ד (1)

Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence with each new generation that is mentioned in this verse. Alternate translation: “Then Irad fathered” or “When Irad grew up, he had” or “Irad was the father of”

Mehujael

Quote: אֶת מְחֽוּיָאֵ֑ל (1)

Alternate translation: “a son whose name was Mehujael,”

and Mehujael fathered

Quote: וּ⁠מְחִיּיָאֵ֗ל יָלַד֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “Then Mehujael fathered” or “When Mehujael grew up, he had” or “Mehujael was the father of”

Methushael

Quote: אֶת מְת֣וּשָׁאֵ֔ל (1)

Alternate translation: “a son whose name was Methushael,”

and Methushael fathered

Quote: וּ⁠מְתוּשָׁאֵ֖ל יָלַ֥ד (1)

Alternate translation: “Then Methushael fathered” or “When Methushael grew up, he had” or “Methushael was the father of”

Lamech

Quote: אֶת לָֽמֶךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “a son whose name was Lamech.”

Genesis 4:19

Then Lamech took for himself two wives

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽקַּֽח ל֥⁠וֹ לֶ֖מֶךְ שְׁתֵּ֣י נָשִׁ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

In this context, the phrase took for himself is an idiom that means “married”. Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom. Alternate translation: “Then Lamech grew up, and he chose two women to be his wives.” or “When Lamech grew up, he married two women.”

The name of the one {was} Adah

Quote: שֵׁ֤ם הָֽ⁠אַחַת֙ עָדָ֔ה (1)

Alternate translation: “His first wife was named Adah,”

and the name of the second {was} Zillah

Quote: וְ⁠שֵׁ֥ם הַ⁠שֵּׁנִ֖ית צִלָּֽה (1)

Alternate translation: “and his second wife was named Zillah.”

Genesis 4:20

And Adah bore

Quote: וַ⁠תֵּ֥לֶד עָדָ֖ה (1)

Alternate translation: “Adah had”

Jabal

Quote: אֶת יָבָ֑ל (1)

Alternate translation: “a son whose name was Jabal.”

He was

Quote: ה֣וּא הָיָ֔ה (1)

Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “who was” or “who grew up and became”

the father of {those} who live

Quote: אֲבִ֕י יֹשֵׁ֥ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase father of is used here as an idiom that means Jabal was the first person to do these things. He originated this way of living, and many people after him followed his example. Alternate translation: “the first of all people who”

those} who live {in} tents

Quote: יֹשֵׁ֥ב אֹ֖הֶל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A tent is a portable living place that has walls made of cloth or animal skins and is held up by poles. Tents are used by people who need to take their home with them as they move from place to place, often to find food and water for themselves and their livestock. If people in your language area are not familiar with tents, you could include some of the above information in a footnote. Alternate translation: “are tent dwellers” or “live in portable shelters”

and own livestock

Quote: וּ⁠מִקְנֶֽה (1)

The term livestock includes all kinds of domestic animals, such as cows, sheep, goats, camels, and donkeys. See how you translated livestock in Gen 1:24-26; 2:20, 3:14. Alternate translation: “and raise animals for a living.”

Genesis 4:21

And the name of his brother {was} Jubal

Quote: וְ⁠שֵׁ֥ם אָחִ֖י⁠ו יוּבָ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

Jubal was probably younger than Jabal. See how you translated brother in verse 2. Alternate translation: “Jabal had a brother named Jubal.”

He was

Quote: ה֣וּא הָיָ֔ה (1)

Alternate translation: “who was” or “He grew up and became”

the father of all

Quote: אֲבִ֕י כָּל (1)

See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 20. Alternate translation: “the ancestor of all people who”

who play harps and flutes

Quote: תֹּפֵ֥שׂ כִּנּ֖וֹר וְ⁠עוּגָֽב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

Alternate translation: “play musical instruments called lyres and pipes.” or “play stringed instruments and wind instruments.”

Genesis 4:22

also bore

Quote: גַם & יָֽלְדָה֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “also became pregnant and gave birth to a son, and they named him”

Tubal Cain

Quote: אֶת תּ֣וּבַל קַ֔יִן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Be consistent with how you spell this name both times in verse 22. Alternate translation: “Tubal-Cain” or “Tubal-cain” or “Tubalcain”

who forged

Quote: לֹטֵ֕שׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

It is probably implied from verses 20-21 that Tubal Cain, like his brothers, was the father/ancestor or first of all those who had his skill. Alternate translation: “He was the first person to forge” or “He was the first blacksmith and forged” or “He was the first of all people who forge”

all {kinds} of tools out of bronze and iron

Quote: כָּל חֹרֵ֥שׁ נְחֹ֖שֶׁת וּ⁠בַרְזֶ֑ל (1)

The word tools that is used here in the Hebrew text is general and can include farming tools and weapons and other things that are made out of metal. Alternate translation: “all kinds of tools and other things out of brass and iron.” or “all kinds of brass and iron things”

And the sister of Tubal Cain {was} Naamah

Quote: וַֽ⁠אֲח֥וֹת תּֽוּבַל קַ֖יִן נַֽעֲמָֽה (1)

Alternate translation: “Tubal Cain had a sister named Naamah.”

Genesis 4:23

And Lamech said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר לֶ֜מֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

Consider what is the best way in your language to introduce this new event. Alternate translation: “One time, Lamech said proudly” or “One day, Lamech boasted”

to his wives, Adah and Zillah

Quote: לְ⁠נָשָׁ֗י⁠ו עָדָ֤ה וְ⁠צִלָּה֙ (1)

Be consistent with how you spelled these names in verses 19-20, 22-23.

hear my voice

Quote: שְׁמַ֣עַן קוֹלִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The phrase my voice refers here to the words being said. Consider what is the best way to translate this figure of speech in your language. Alternate translation: “listen to what I am going to tell you.”

Wives of Lamech, give ear to my word{s

Quote: נְשֵׁ֣י לֶ֔מֶךְ הַאְזֵ֖נָּה אִמְרָתִ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

This clause forms a parallelism with the previous clause and emphasizes what Lamech says next. Also, consider whether or not your language has an idiom that is similar to give ear to. Alternate translation: “My wives, listen to me carefully.”

For I killed a man for my wound, even a young man for my bruise

Quote: כִּ֣י אִ֤ישׁ הָרַ֨גְתִּי֙ לְ⁠פִצְעִ֔⁠י וְ⁠יֶ֖לֶד לְ⁠חַבֻּרָתִֽ⁠י (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “I killed a man for wounding me; he was a young man who bruised/injured me!” or “I killed a young man for wounding/injuring me! In fact, I killed that man just because he bruised/injured me!” or (2) “I killed a man for wounding me, and also a young man for bruising/injuring me.” or “A man wounded me, so I killed him. A young man injured me, so I killed him too!” According to the first interpretation, Lamech refers to one man he killed. According to the second interpretation, he refers to two men he killed.

Genesis 4:24

If Cain is avenged seven times, then Lamech

Quote: כִּ֥י שִׁבְעָתַ֖יִם יֻקַּם קָ֑יִן וְ⁠לֶ֖מֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language. Alternate translation: “Since God has promised to avenge Cain seven times, then” or “Cain is avenged by God seven times, but”

then Lamech {is avenged} seventy-seven times

Quote: וְ⁠לֶ֖מֶךְ שִׁבְעִ֥ים וְ⁠שִׁבְעָֽה (1)

Lamech is bragging in verses 23 and 24 about how severely he avenges himself. He is not saying that God will avenge him more than he will avenge Cain. Also, each translation team needs to decide how they will handle numbers in the Hebrew text so that readers will not confuse those numbers with verse numbers. For example, it may be best to use words for single and double-digit numbers in the text. Be consistent with how you spelled the name Lamech in verses 18-19, 23-24. Alternate translation: “I, Lamech avenge myself seventy-seven times!” or “I avenge myself 77 times!”

Genesis 4:25

Then Adam knew his wife again

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֨דַע אָדָ֥ם עוֹד֙ אֶת אִשְׁתּ֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

See how you translated the idiom knew in 4:1, 17. Alternate translation: “Then Adam slept with his wife Eve again,” or “Again Adam had marital relations with his wife Eve,”

and she bore a son

Quote: וַ⁠תֵּ֣לֶד בֵּ֔ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Alternate translation: “so that she conceived and had a son,” or “with the result that she became pregnant and gave birth to a son,”

and she called his name

Quote: וַ⁠תִּקְרָ֥א אֶת שְׁמ֖⁠וֹ (1)

See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 3:20. Alternate translation: “and she gave him the name”

because {she had said

Quote: כִּ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

What follows is a direct quote of what Eve said that gave Seth his name. Make sure that is clear in your language. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “She named him that because when he was born, she had exclaimed,”

God has appointed for me

Quote: שָֽׁת לִ֤⁠י אֱלֹהִים֙ (1)

If you include the meaning of Seth’s name in your translation or in a footnote, make sure it matches the way you translate appointed here, so that it is clear why he was given that name. Alternate translation: “God has given to me”

in place of Abel

Quote: תַּ֣חַת הֶ֔בֶל (1)

Alternate translation: “to take the place of Abel,”

since Cain killed him

Quote: כִּ֥י הֲרָג֖⁠וֹ קָֽיִן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some language it is necessary to put this phrase first in this clause (so that events are in the order that they happened) and say, “Since Cain killed Abel, God granted me another child to replace him.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “whom Cain murdered.”

Genesis 4:26

And to Seth also a son was born

Quote: וּ⁠לְ⁠שֵׁ֤ת גַּם & יֻלַּד בֵּ֔ן (1)

The word order in the Hebrew text here emphasizes Seth. Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Later on, Seth also had a son,”

and he called his name Enosh

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֥א אֶת שְׁמ֖⁠וֹ אֱנ֑וֹשׁ (1)

Alternate translation: “whom he named Enosh.”

Then

Quote: אָ֣ז (1)

Alternate translation: “At that time” or “That is when”

people} began to call on the name of Yahweh

Quote: הוּחַ֔ל לִ⁠קְרֹ֖א בְּ⁠שֵׁ֥ם יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase call on the name of Yahweh is an idiom that refers to prayers, worship, and praise in which people addressed God directly by his personal name Yahweh. It also implies that they were trusting in him to help and guide them. Alternate translation: “people began to address God by his name Yahweh as they worshiped him.” or “people began to praise Yahweh by name.” or “people first called Yahweh by name in their prayers and worship.”

Genesis 5

Genesis 5:1

This {is

Quote: זֶ֣ה (1)

Alternate translation: “What follows is”

the written account of

Quote: סֵ֔פֶר (1)

Alternate translation: “the written family record of”

the generations of Adam

Quote: תּוֹלְדֹ֖ת אָדָ֑ם (1)

Alternate translation: “about Adam and his descendants:”

On the day God created man{kind}, he made him

Quote: בְּ⁠י֗וֹם בְּרֹ֤א אֱלֹהִים֙ אָדָ֔ם & עָשָׂ֥ה אֹתֽ⁠וֹ (1)

See how you translated created in Gen 1:1, 27; 2:4, and “man” in Gen 1:26-27. Alternate translation: “On the day that God made human beings, he made them”

in the likeness of God

Quote: בִּ⁠דְמ֥וּת אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)

God created mankind to be like himself in certain ways, but not to be exactly like him in every way (Gen 1:26-27). Alternate translation: “in his own likeness.”

Genesis 5:2

He created them male and female

Quote: זָכָ֥ר וּ⁠נְקֵבָ֖ה בְּרָאָ֑⁠ם (1)

See how you translated this clause in Gen 1:27.

and he blessed them

Quote: וַ⁠יְבָ֣רֶךְ אֹתָ֗⁠ם (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also see how you translated blessed in Gen 1:22, 28. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: “He blessed them” or “He said that he would make them prosper”

and called their name

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֤א אֶת שְׁמָ⁠ם֙ (1)

See how you translated the phrase “called … name” in Gen 4:17, 25, 26. Alternate translation: “and called them”

man{kind

Quote: אָדָ֔ם (1)

Be consistent here with how you translated this term in verse 1.

on the day they were created

Quote: בְּ⁠י֖וֹם הִבָּֽרְאָֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language. Also, for some languages it is clearer or more natural to put this clause earlier in this verse and say, “and on the same day that he created them, he blessed them and called/named them human beings.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “on the same day that they were created by him.”

Genesis 5:3

And Adam lived 130 years, then he fathered {a son

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִ֣י אָדָ֗ם שְׁלֹשִׁ֤ים וּ⁠מְאַת֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וַ⁠יּ֥וֹלֶד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers

Each translation team needs to decide how they are going to write large numbers in the Bible. Many teams use numerals, for example, 130 here in verse 3, especially if the target language has a complicated counting system. Other teams prefer to use words, for example, “one hundred thirty” here. Be consistent in what you do throughout your translation. Alternate translation: “When Adam had lived 130 years, he had a son” or “When Adam was 130 years old, he fathered a son”

in his own likeness, according to his image

Quote: בִּ⁠דְמוּת֖⁠וֹ כְּ⁠צַלְמ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases have similar meanings and emphasize that Seth was similar to Adam in many ways. See how you translated similar phrases in Gen 1:26. Alternate translation: “who was a human being like himself and looked like him,”

and he called his name Seth

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֥א אֶת שְׁמ֖⁠וֹ שֵֽׁת (1)

For some languages it is more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “and Adam named him Seth.” or “Adam named his son Seth.”

Genesis 5:4

And the days of Adam after he fathered Seth were

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽהְי֣וּ יְמֵי אָדָ֗ם אַֽחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣⁠וֹ אֶת שֵׁ֔ת (1)

Alternate translation: “After he had Seth, he lived” or “After Seth was born, Adam lived”

800 years

Quote: שְׁמֹנֶ֥ה מֵאֹ֖ת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages, it may be more natural to change the clause order of this sentence and say, “Adam lived 800 more years after Seth was born …” Do what is best in your language throughout this chapter. Alternate translation: “800 more years,”

and he fathered

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֥וֹלֶד (1)

This clause probably refers to all the other children that Adam had, including those who were born before and after Seth was born. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “and he also had” or “Adam also had” or “He was also the father of”

Genesis 5:5

So all the days of Adam that he lived were 930 years

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽהְי֞וּ כָּל יְמֵ֤י אָדָם֙ אֲשֶׁר חַ֔י תְּשַׁ֤ע מֵאוֹת֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וּ⁠שְׁלֹשִׁ֖ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Make sure that the name Adam is spelled consistently in your translation of verses 1, 3-5. Alternate translation: “So he lived a total of 930 years,” or “All together Adam lived 930 years,”

and he died

Quote: וַ⁠יָּמֹֽת (1)

Notice that if you use the second alternative here (“before he died”), a comma is not used before it (in English). Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “before he died.”

Genesis 5:6

And Seth lived 105 years

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִי־שֵׁ֕ת חָמֵ֥שׁ שָׁנִ֖ים וּ⁠מְאַ֣ת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background

The events in verse 6 happened before Adam died (verse 5). So if you use a conjunction here, make sure your translation does not sound like verse 6 happened after Adam died. Alternate translation: “After Seth had lived 105 years,” or “After Seth was 105 years old,”

then he fathered Enosh

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת אֱנֽוֹשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

You could make it explicit in your translation or in a footnote that Enosh was a son. The same thing is true for the rest of the children whose births are mentioned in this chapter (who were all sons). Alternate translation: “he fathered a son named Enosh.” or “he had a son they named Enosh.” or “he had a son whose name was Enosh.”

Genesis 5:7

Then after he fathered Enosh, Seth lived

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִי שֵׁ֗ת אַֽחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣⁠וֹ אֶת אֱנ֔וֹשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In fact, throughout chapter 5, make sure it is clear in your translation whom each pronoun refers to. Alternate translation: “After he had Enosh, he lived” or “After Enosh was born, Seth lived”

807 years

Quote: שֶׁ֣בַע שָׁנִ֔ים וּ⁠שְׁמֹנֶ֥ה מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “807 more years,”

and he fathered

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֥וֹלֶד (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated this phrase and the following one in verse 4. Alternate translation: “and he also had” or “Seth also had” or “He was also the father of”

Genesis 5:8

So all the days of Seth were 912 years

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽהְיוּ֙ כָּל יְמֵי שֵׁ֔ת שְׁתֵּ֤ים עֶשְׂרֵה֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וּ⁠תְשַׁ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Be consistent with how you spell the name Seth in the book of Genesis. See Gen 4:25-26; 5:3-4, 6-8. Alternate translation: “So he lived a total of 912 years,” or “All together he lived 912 years,”

and he died

Quote: וַ⁠יָּמֹֽת (1)

Alternate translation: “before he died.”

Genesis 5:9

And Enosh lived ninety years

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִ֥י אֱנ֖וֹשׁ תִּשְׁעִ֣ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background

See how you translated the beginning of a similar new paragraph in this genealogy at verse 6. Alternate translation: “After Enosh had lived 90 years,” or “After Enosh was 90 years old,”

then he fathered Kenan

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת קֵינָֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Alternate translation: “he fathered a son named Kenan.” or “he had a son whose name was Kenan.”

Genesis 5:10

Then after he fathered Kenan, Enosh lived

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִ֣י אֱנ֗וֹשׁ אַֽחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣⁠וֹ אֶת קֵינָ֔ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

See how you translated a similar sentence in verse 7, and see the notes about that there. Alternate translation: “After he had Kenan, he lived” or “After Kenan was born, Enosh lived”

815 years

Quote: חֲמֵ֤שׁ עֶשְׂרֵה֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וּ⁠שְׁמֹנֶ֥ה מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “815 more years,”

and he fathered

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֥וֹלֶד (1)

Alternate translation: “and he also had” or “Enosh also had” or “He was also the father of”

Genesis 5:11

So all the days of Enosh were 905 years

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽהְיוּ֙ כָּל יְמֵ֣י אֱנ֔וֹשׁ חָמֵ֣שׁ שָׁנִ֔ים וּ⁠תְשַׁ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Make sure that the name Enosh is spelled consistently in your translation of verses 6-7, 9-11. Alternate translation: “So he lived a total of 905 years,” or “All together he lived 905 years,”

and he died

Quote: וַ⁠יָּמֹֽת (1)

Alternate translation: “before he died.”

Genesis 5:12

And Kenan lived seventy years

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִ֥י קֵינָ֖ן שִׁבְעִ֣ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers

Throughout this chapter, be consistent with how you have decided to handle numbers in the Bible. For example, many translation teams use words for single and double-digit numbers, but use numerals for larger numbers. This strategy helps prevent confusion with verse numbers. This is especially true in translations that use a large font size for verse numbers so that people doing group Bible study can easily be in the same verse together. Alternate translation: “After Kenan had lived seventy years,” or “After Kenan was seventy years old,”

then he fathered Mahalalel

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת מַֽהֲלַלְאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Alternate translation: “he fathered a son named Mahalalel.” or “he fathered a son whose name was Mahalalel.”

Genesis 5:13

Then after he fathered Mahalalel, Kenan lived

Quote: וַ⁠יְחִ֣י קֵינָ֗ן אַחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣⁠וֹ אֶת מַֽהֲלַלְאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Alternate translation: “After Kenan had Mahalalel, he lived” or “After Mahalalel was born, Kenan lived”

840 years

Quote: אַרְבָּעִ֣ים שָׁנָ֔ה וּ⁠שְׁמֹנֶ֥ה מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “840 more years,”

and he fathered

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֥וֹלֶד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Kenan at this point in the paragraph. Alternate translation: “and he also had” or “Kenan also had” or “He was also the father of”

Genesis 5:14

So all the days of Kenan were 910 years

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽהְיוּ֙ כָּל יְמֵ֣י קֵינָ֔ן עֶ֣שֶׂר שָׁנִ֔ים וּ⁠תְשַׁ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Make sure that the name Kenan is spelled consistently in your translation of verses 9-10, 12-14. Alternate translation: “So he lived a total of 910 years,” or “All together he lived 910 years,”

and he died

Quote: וַ⁠יָּמֹֽת (1)

Alternate translation: “before he died.”

Genesis 5:15

And Mahalalel lived sixty-five years

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִ֣י מַֽהֲלַלְאֵ֔ל חָמֵ֥שׁ שָׁנִ֖ים וְ⁠שִׁשִּׁ֣ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “After Mahalalel had lived 65 years,” or “After Mahalalel was 65 years old,”

then he fathered Jared

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת יָֽרֶד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Alternate translation: “he fathered a son named Jared.” or “he fathered a son whose name was Jared.”

Genesis 5:16

Then after he fathered Jared, Mahalalel lived

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִ֣י מַֽהֲלַלְאֵ֗ל אַֽחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣⁠וֹ אֶת יֶ֔רֶד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Alternate translation: “After he had Jared, he lived” or “After Jared was born, Mahalalel lived”

830 years

Quote: שְׁלֹשִׁ֣ים שָׁנָ֔ה וּ⁠שְׁמֹנֶ֥ה מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “830 more years,”

and he fathered

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֥וֹלֶד (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “and he also had” or “He also fathered” or “He was also the father of”

Genesis 5:17

So all the days of Mahalalel were 895 years

Quote: וַ⁠יִּהְיוּ֙ כָּל יְמֵ֣י מַהֲלַלְאֵ֔ל חָמֵ֤שׁ וְ⁠תִשְׁעִים֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וּ⁠שְׁמֹנֶ֥ה מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Make sure that the name Mahalalel is spelled consistently in your translation of verses 12-13, 15-17. Alternate translation: “So he lived a total of 895 years,” or “All together he lived 895 years,”

and he died

Quote: וַ⁠יָּמֹֽת (1)

Alternate translation: “before he died.”

Genesis 5:18

And Jared lived 162 years

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִי־יֶ֕רֶד שְׁתַּ֧יִם וְ⁠שִׁשִּׁ֛ים שָׁנָ֖ה וּ⁠מְאַ֣ת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “After Jared had lived 162 years,” or “After Jared was 162 years old,”

then he fathered Enoch

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת חֲנֽוֹךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Alternate translation: “he fathered a son named Enoch.” or “he fathered a son whose name was Enoch.”

Genesis 5:19

Then after he fathered Enoch, Jared lived

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִי יֶ֗רֶד אַֽחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣⁠וֹ אֶת חֲנ֔וֹךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “After Jared had Enoch, he lived” or “After Enoch was born, Jared lived”

800 years

Quote: שְׁמֹנֶ֥ה מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “800 more years,”

and he fathered

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֥וֹלֶד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Jared at this point in the paragraph. Alternate translation: “and he also had” or “Jared also had” or “He was also the father of”

Genesis 5:20

So all the days of Jared were 962 years

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽהְיוּ֙ כָּל יְמֵי יֶ֔רֶד שְׁתַּ֤יִם וְ⁠שִׁשִּׁים֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וּ⁠תְשַׁ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Make sure that the name Jared is spelled consistently in your translation of verses 15-16, 18-20. Alternate translation: “So he lived a total of 962 years,” or “All together he lived 962 years,”

and he died

Quote: וַ⁠יָּמֹֽת (1)

Alternate translation: “before he died.”

Genesis 5:21

And Enoch lived sixty-five years

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִ֣י חֲנ֔וֹךְ חָמֵ֥שׁ וְ⁠שִׁשִּׁ֖ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Consider again how you translated double-digit numbers in verses 9, 12, 15, 21. Alternate translation: “After Enoch had lived 65 years,” or “After Enoch was 65 years old,”

then he fathered Methuselah

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת מְתוּשָֽׁלַח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Alternate translation: “he fathered a son named Methuselah.” or “he had a son whose name was Methuselah.”

Genesis 5:22

after he fathered Methuselah

Quote: אַֽחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣⁠וֹ אֶת מְתוּשֶׁ֔לַח (1)

Alternate translation: “After he had Methuselah,” or “After Methuselah was born,”

Then … Enoch walked with God

Quote: וַ⁠יִּתְהַלֵּ֨ךְ חֲנ֜וֹךְ אֶת הָֽ⁠אֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase walked with is used here as an idiom that means “lived in a close relationship with”. Consider whether or not you have a similar idiom in your language. Alternate translation: “Enoch lived faithfully with God” or “Enoch lived in a faithful relationship with God”

300 years

Quote: שְׁלֹ֥שׁ מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “for 300 more years,”

and he fathered

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֥וֹלֶד (1)

Alternate translation: “and he also had” or “Enoch also had” or “He was also the father of”

Genesis 5:23

So all the days of Enoch were 365 years

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֖י כָּל יְמֵ֣י חֲנ֑וֹךְ חָמֵ֤שׁ וְ⁠שִׁשִּׁים֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וּ⁠שְׁלֹ֥שׁ מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָֽה (1)

Make sure that the name Enoch is spelled consistently in your translation of verses 18-19, 21-24. Alternate translation: “So he lived a total of 365 years.” or “All together he lived 365 years.”

Genesis 5:24

And Enoch walked with God

Quote: וַ⁠יִּתְהַלֵּ֥ךְ חֲנ֖וֹךְ אֶת הָֽ⁠אֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)

Alternate translation: “All his life Enoch lived in a faithful relationship with God, and then”

and {then} he was not {there

Quote: וְ⁠אֵינֶ֕⁠נּוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “suddenly he was not on earth anymore,” or “he suddenly disappeared from earth,”

because God took him away

Quote: כִּֽי לָקַ֥ח אֹת֖⁠וֹ אֱלֹהִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

It may be more natural to put this clause before the previous clause and say, “… God took him away to be with him, so he was suddenly no longer on earth.” Do what is best in your language.

Genesis 5:25

And Methuselah lived 187 years

Quote: וַ⁠יְחִ֣י מְתוּשֶׁ֔לַח שֶׁ֧בַע וּ⁠שְׁמֹנִ֛ים שָׁנָ֖ה וּ⁠מְאַ֣ת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Consider again how you translated verses in this chapter that are similar in structure to this verse; see verses 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 25, and part of verses 3 and 28, and see the note about this at verse 6. Alternate translation: “After Methuselah had lived 187 years,” or “After Methuselah was 187 years old,”

then he fathered Lamech

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת לָֽמֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Alternate translation: “he fathered a son named Lamech.” or “he had a son whose name was Lamech.”

Genesis 5:26

Then after he fathered Lamech, Methuselah lived

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִ֣י מְתוּשֶׁ֗לַח אַֽחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣⁠וֹ אֶת לֶ֔מֶךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “After he had Lamech, he lived” or “After Lamech was born, Methuselah lived”

782 years

Quote: שְׁתַּ֤יִם וּ⁠שְׁמוֹנִים֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וּ⁠שְׁבַ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “782 more years,”

and he fathered

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֥וֹלֶד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Methuselah at this point in the paragraph. Alternate translation: “and he also had” or “He also fathered” or “He was also the father of”

Genesis 5:27

So all the days of Methuselah were 969 years

Quote: וַ⁠יִּהְיוּ֙ כָּל יְמֵ֣י מְתוּשֶׁ֔לַח תֵּ֤שַׁע וְ⁠שִׁשִּׁים֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וּ⁠תְשַׁ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Make sure that the name Methuselah is spelled consistently in your translation of verses 21-22, 25-27. Alternate translation: “So he lived a total of 969 years,” or “So all together he lived 969 years,”

and he died

Quote: וַ⁠יָּמֹֽת (1)

Alternate translation: “before he died.”

Genesis 5:28

And Lamech lived 182 years

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִי־לֶ֕מֶךְ שְׁתַּ֧יִם וּ⁠שְׁמֹנִ֛ים שָׁנָ֖ה וּ⁠מְאַ֣ת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “After Lamech had lived 182 years,” or “After Lamech was 182 years old,”

Genesis 5:29

and he called his name

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֧א אֶת שְׁמ֛⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “whom he named”

Noah

Quote: נֹ֖חַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

If you include the meaning of Noah’s name in your translation or in a footnote, make sure it matches what Lamech says about him in the following quote so it is clear why he was given that name.

saying

Quote: לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

What Lamech says next is the reason that he named his son Noah. Make sure that is clear in your translation. Alternate translation: “He named him that because he had said about him,”

This {one} will comfort us

Quote: זֶ֞֠ה יְנַחֲמֵ֤⁠נוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “This son will relieve us” or “This son will give us relief”

from our labors and from the toil of our hands

Quote: מִֽ⁠מַּעֲשֵׂ֨⁠נוּ֙ וּ⁠מֵ⁠עִצְּב֣וֹן יָדֵ֔י⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases have similar meanings and emphasize how difficult the work was. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: “from the difficult labor and work we have to do with our hands” or “from the agonizing work that we have to do”

because of the ground which Yahweh has cursed

Quote: מִן הָ֣⁠אֲדָמָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר אֵֽרְרָ֖⁠הּ יְהוָֽה (1)

Alternate translation: “as we farm the ground that Yahweh has cursed.”

Genesis 5:30

Then after he fathered Noah, Lamech lived

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִי לֶ֗מֶךְ אַֽחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣⁠וֹ אֶת נֹ֔חַ (1)

Consider again how you translated verses in this chapter that are similar in structure to this verse; see verses 7, 10, 13, 16, 19, 26, 30, and part of verses 4 and 22. Alternate translation: “After he fathered Noah, he lived” or “After Noah was born, Lamech lived”

595 years

Quote: חָמֵ֤שׁ וְ⁠תִשְׁעִים֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וַ⁠חֲמֵ֥שׁ מֵאֹ֖ת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “595 more years,”

and he fathered

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֥וֹלֶד (1)

Alternate translation: “and he also had” or “Lamech also had” or “He was also the father of”

Genesis 5:31

So all the days of Lamech were 777 years

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי֙ כָּל יְמֵי לֶ֔מֶךְ שֶׁ֤בַע וְ⁠שִׁבְעִים֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וּ⁠שְׁבַ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Consider again how you translated verses that are similar to verse 31; see verses 8, 11, 14, 17, 20, 27, 31, and the first half of verses 5 and 23. Also make sure that the name Lamech is spelled consistently in your translation of verses 25-26, 28-31, and also in 4:18-19, 23-24 for a different person who has the same name. Alternate translation: “So he lived a total of 777 years,” or “All together he lived 777 years,”

and he died

Quote: וַ⁠יָּמֹֽת (1)

Alternate translation: “before he died.”

Genesis 5:32

And Noah was a son of 500 years

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי נֹ֕חַ בֶּן חֲמֵ֥שׁ מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Noah’s sons were not triplets, but were born in different years after Noah was 500 years old. The way you translate this verse should allow for that meaning.

then Noah fathered

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֣וֹלֶד נֹ֔חַ (1)

Consider again how you translated fathered in this chapter; see verses 4, 6-7, 9-10, 12-13, 15-16, 18-19, 25-26, 28, 30, 32. Alternate translation: “he fathered”

Shem, Ham, and Japheth

Quote: אֶת שֵׁ֖ם אֶת חָ֥ם וְ⁠אֶת יָֽפֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Alternate translation: “sons named Shem, Ham, and Japheth.” or “sons he named Shem, Ham, and Japheth.”

Genesis 6

Genesis 6:1

And it happened

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background

The events in Gen 6:1-2 started happening long before the events in 5:32, so the way your translation begins this verse should allow for that meaning and not begin with a sequence word like “Then”, which would have the wrong meaning here. Many translations omit the conjunction here. Do what is best in your language. Also, the phrase it happened introduces and emphasizes important background information which the following narrative builds on. It also creates suspense so that readers and listeners wonder what will happen next. Some translations leave this phrase out, but doing that loses some of the suspense. Do what is best in your language.

when

Quote: כִּֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Alternate translation: “that as”

mankind

Quote: הָֽ⁠אָדָ֔ם (1)

See how you translated this term in Gen 5:1-2. Alternate translation: “human beings”

began to multiply

Quote: הֵחֵ֣ל & לָ⁠רֹ֖ב (1)

Alternate translation: “began to increase in number” or “began to be more numerous”

on the surface of the earth

Quote: עַל פְּנֵ֣י הָֽ⁠אֲדָמָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “throughout the world”

and daughters were born to them

Quote: וּ⁠בָנ֖וֹת יֻלְּד֥וּ לָ⁠הֶֽם (1)

Alternate translation: “and they were having many daughters,”

Genesis 6:2

then … saw

Quote: וַ⁠יִּרְא֤וּ (1)

Verses 1 and 2 are one long sentence in the Hebrew text. For many languages it is necessary to divide it into two or more shorter sentences. For example, depending on how you began verse 1, you could begin verse 2 with a new sentence. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Then when those girls grew up,” or “When those daughters grew up,”

the sons of God

Quote: בְנֵי הָֽ⁠אֱלֹהִים֙ (1)

The meaning of Gen 6:2 is not certain and is heavily debated, so it is probably best to translate it fairly literally and possibly include a footnote about what it means. If it is not translated literally, the literal text should be put in a footnote. There are three main views of who the sons of God and the daughters of mankind refer to: (1) nonhuman, god-like (supernatural) beings, such as demons or angels (as in Job 1:6, 38:7) who took human form and married the daughters of human beings (which may be what is referred to in 1 Peter 3:19–20; 2 Peter 2:4, and Jude 6); or (2) male descendants of Seth (the righteous, chosen family line) who married female descendants of Cain (the unrighteous family line); or (3) sons of powerful men, such as judges or rulers (as in Exodus 22:8, Psalm 82:1, 6) who married the daughters of common, poor people. Alternate translation: “some angels” or “some supernatural beings”

then … saw the daughters of mankind, that they {were} beautiful

Quote: וַ⁠יִּרְא֤וּ & אֶת בְּנ֣וֹת הָֽ⁠אָדָ֔ם כִּ֥י טֹבֹ֖ת הֵ֑נָּה (1)

Alternate translation: “saw that the daughters of human beings were beautiful,” or “saw that those young women were beautiful,” or “saw that they were very beautiful,”

so they took wives for themselves from any {of them} that they chose

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְח֤וּ לָ⁠הֶם֙ נָשִׁ֔ים מִ⁠כֹּ֖ל אֲשֶׁ֥ר בָּחָֽרוּ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, see how you translated “took/married” in Gen 4:19. Alternate translation: “so they married any of them that they wanted to.” or “So they chose all of them that they wanted and married them.”

Genesis 6:3

Then Yahweh said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Only make implied information explicit in your translation if it is necessary to prevent wrong meaning or if your language’s grammar requires it, so that your translation is easier to read and understand. Alternate translation: “So Yahweh said to himself,”

My Spirit

Quote: רוּחִ֤⁠י (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) My Spirit or “I”, which is a way of God referring to himself (Gen 1:2 is similar); or (2) “My spirit”, which could refer to God’s breath that gives life (as in Gen 2:7). If the text is not translated literally, the literal text should be put in a footnote.

will not strive with mankind forever

Quote: לֹֽא־יָד֨וֹן & בָֽ⁠אָדָם֙ לְ⁠עֹלָ֔ם (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “will not contend with human beings forever,” or “will not put up with human beings forever,” or (2) “will not remain/live with/in human beings forever,” The interpretation that is not used in your translation could be put in a footnote.

because they {are} indeed flesh

Quote: בְּ⁠שַׁ⁠גַּ֖ם ה֣וּא בָשָׂ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The word flesh is used here as an idiom that means human beings are “mortal” (that is, their bodies will die) and that they are “sinful/corrupt”. The two meanings are interrelated since it is because of sin that their bodies die. In this context, the focus is on their corrupt behavior, which is the reason God will send a flood. Alternate translation: “because they are very sinful” or “because they are only sinful mortals.”

Therefore their days will be 120 years

Quote: וְ⁠הָי֣וּ יָמָ֔י⁠ו מֵאָ֥ה וְ⁠עֶשְׂרִ֖ים שָׁנָֽה (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “So they will have 120 years to repent.” or “I will give them 120 years to repent.” or (2) “From now on, they/people will have/live no longer than 120 years.” The first interpretation seems to best fit the context here of God announcing his plan to judge mankind for their sin (verse 7). This would mean that Noah was 480 years old when God said this (about 20 years before he started having sons; Gen 5:32), since the flood came when he was 600 years old (Gen 7:6); you could put some of that information in a footnote. The second interpretation does not fit with the fact that after God said this, many people lived much longer than 120 years, so it does not seem likely that length of life was his meaning here.

Genesis 6:4

The Nephilim

Quote: הַ⁠נְּפִלִ֞ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Most translations transliterate (borrow or copy) the Hebrew word Nephilim here, treating it as a name. The word means “fallen ones” and probably refers to their fallen (sinful) spiritual state. The Nephilim were the descendants of the sons of God and the daughters of mankind. The only other time in the Bible that the Nephilim are mentioned is centuries later in Numbers 13:32-33, where they are identified as evil giants. Based on that, some translations translate “the Nephilim” as “giants” here in Gen 6:4. Alternate translation: “Giants called the Nephilim” or “Giants”

were on the earth

Quote: הָי֣וּ בָ⁠אָרֶץ֮ (1)

Alternate translation: “were living on the earth”

in those days and also after that

Quote: בַּ⁠יָּמִ֣ים הָ⁠הֵם֒ וְ⁠גַ֣ם אַֽחֲרֵי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

It may be more natural to put this time phrase first in verse 4 and say, “During that time there were Nephilim/giants living on the earth, when …” Do what is best in your language.

when

Quote: כֵ֗ן אֲשֶׁ֨ר (1)

Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language. Alternate translation: “That was when”

the sons of God

Quote: בְּנֵ֤י הָֽ⁠אֱלֹהִים֙ (1)

Be consistent here with how you translated this phrase in verse 2, and see the important note about that there. Alternate translation: “angels” or “supernatural beings”

went to

Quote: יָבֹ֜אוּ & אֶל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Translate this idiom in a way that is polite and will not shame or embarrass people when this verse is read aloud in public. See how you translated a similar idiom (“knew”) in Gen 4:1, 17, 25. Alternate translation: “slept with” or “had sexual relations with”

the daughters of mankind

Quote: בְּנ֣וֹת הָֽ⁠אָדָ֔ם (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 2. Alternate translation: “human women,”

and they bore children for them

Quote: וְ⁠יָלְד֖וּ לָ⁠הֶ֑ם (1)

Alternate translation: “and those women had children.”

They {were

Quote: הֵ֧מָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Make sure it is clear in your translation who is being referred to here. Alternate translation: “Those children grew up and were the Nephilim, who were”

the mighty {ones

Quote: הַ⁠גִּבֹּרִ֛ים (1)

Alternate translation: “the powerful men” or “heroes”

who {were} from long ago

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר מֵ⁠עוֹלָ֖ם (1)

Alternate translation: “who lived a long time ago,” or “who lived many years ago,”

the men of renown

Quote: אַנְשֵׁ֥י הַ⁠שֵּֽׁם (1)

For some languages it may be more natural to put this phrase earlier in this sentence and say, “They were the mighty men of renown who were from long ago.” or “They were the famous mighty men who lived a long time ago.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “who were famous men.”

Genesis 6:5

And Yahweh saw

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֣רְא יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The verb saw is used here as an idiom. Consider whether your language has a similar idiom that would fit well here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh knew” or “Yahweh was aware”

that the wickedness of mankind {was} great on the earth

Quote: כִּ֥י רַבָּ֛ה רָעַ֥ת הָ⁠אָדָ֖ם בָּ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “how evil mankind had become on the earth,” or “that the people on the earth had become very wicked”

and that every inclination of the thoughts of their hearts

Quote: וְ⁠כָל יֵ֨צֶר֙ מַחְשְׁבֹ֣ת לִבּ֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

In Hebrew culture the heart is considered the center of thoughts and desires. Consider whether your language has a similar idiom. Alternate translation: “and that every desire they had in their minds” or “and that everything they thought about and wanted”

all day long

Quote: כָּל הַ⁠יּֽוֹם (1)

Alternate translation: “constantly.”

Genesis 6:6

So Yahweh was sorry

Quote: וַ⁠יִּנָּ֣חֶם יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Alternate translation: “As a result, Yahweh regretted” or “Yahweh regretted”

that he had made mankind

Quote: כִּֽי עָשָׂ֥ה אֶת הָֽ⁠אָדָ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

See how you translated mankind in verses 1, 3, and 5, and consider whether or not it is best to use a pronoun (“them”) here in your language. Alternate translation: “that he had created them” or “that he had created human beings”

and he was grieved in his heart

Quote: וַ⁠יִּתְעַצֵּ֖ב אֶל לִבּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Consider whether your language has a similar idiom that would fit well here. Alternate translation: “and his heart was filled with pain” or “and he was very sad”

Genesis 6:7

Then Yahweh said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָ֗ה (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 3. Also make sure that the way you begin verse 7 fits well with the way you begin verse 6. Alternate translation: “Then he said to himself,”

I will wipe away

Quote: אֶמְחֶ֨ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Consider whether your language has a similar idiom that would fit well here. Alternate translation: “I will wash away” or “I will blot out” or “I will completely wipe”

mankind whom I created off the surface of the ground

Quote: אֶת הָ⁠אָדָ֤ם אֲשֶׁר בָּרָ֨אתִי֙ מֵ⁠עַל֙ פְּנֵ֣י הָֽ⁠אֲדָמָ֔ה (1)

Alternate translation: “all the human beings whom I created, from the surface of the earth,”

both mankind and animals

Quote: מֵֽ⁠אָדָם֙ עַד בְּהֵמָ֔ה (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “In fact, I will destroy not just all the people, but also all the animals,”

and crawling creatures

Quote: עַד רֶ֖מֶשׂ (1)

Alternate translation: “and the creatures that move on the ground”

and the birds of the sky

Quote: וְ⁠עַד ע֣וֹף הַ⁠שָּׁמָ֑יִם (1)

Alternate translation: “and all the birds that fly in the air,” or “and all the birds,”

because I am sorry

Quote: כִּ֥י נִחַ֖מְתִּי (1)

See how you translated “was sorry” or “regretted” in verse 6. Alternate translation: “because I am sad”

that I made them

Quote: כִּ֥י עֲשִׂיתִֽ⁠ם (1)

Alternate translation: “that I ever created them.”

Genesis 6:8

But Noah found favor in the eyes of Yahweh

Quote: וְ⁠נֹ֕חַ מָ֥צָא חֵ֖ן בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֥י יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The idiom “find favor” means to please someone. And the idiom in the eyes of refers to someone’s opinion about something or someone. Consider whether your language has similar idioms that work well here or whether it is better to translate this sentence without an idiom. Alternate translation: “But Noah pleased God.” or “However, Yahweh was pleased with Noah.”

Genesis 6:9

These {are} the generations of Noah

Quote: אֵ֚לֶּה תּוֹלְדֹ֣ת נֹ֔חַ (1)

Some of Noah’s history has already been given in Gen 5:29, 32, and 6:8. What follows tells more about him. Alternate translation: “This is more of the record of Noah and his family:” or “What follows tells more about Noah and his family:”

He {was

Quote: נֹ֗חַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider whether it is better in your language to use a noun or a pronoun here to refer to Noah.

a righteous man

Quote: אִ֥ישׁ צַדִּ֛יק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

Alternate translation: “an good man.”

He was without blemish in his generation

Quote: תָּמִ֥ים הָיָ֖ה בְּ⁠דֹֽרֹתָ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “He alone was blameless/faultless in God’s eyes among his contemporaries.” or “Out of all the people living at that time, Noah/he was the only one whom God considered blameless.” or (2) “He had a blameless/spotless reputation among his contemporaries.” or “His contemporaries considered him to be a man of integrity.” The phrase without blemish is often used in the Bible to describe animals that have no defects. Here it is used as an idiom that means Noah was “blameless/faultless” in an ethical or moral sense, or that he had good integrity, but it does not mean that he was sinless. Consider whether your language has a similar idiom that would work well here. Also, the word generation refers here to people who lived during the same time period.

Noah walked with God

Quote: אֶת הָֽ⁠אֱלֹהִ֖ים הִֽתְהַלֶּךְ נֹֽחַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated this idiom in Gen 5:22, 24. Alternate translation: “and he walked closely with God.” or “and he lived in a faithful relationship with God.”

Genesis 6:10

And Noah fathered

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֥וֹלֶד נֹ֖חַ (1)

The fact that Noah fathered/had these three sons was already mentioned in Gen 5:32. Make sure that the way you begin this verse in your translation does not sound like he fathered these sons a second time. Alternate translation: “Eventually he had” or “And as mentioned before, he had”

three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth

Quote: שְׁלֹשָׁ֣ה בָנִ֑ים אֶת שֵׁ֖ם אֶת חָ֥ם וְ⁠אֶת יָֽפֶת (1)

Alternate translation: “three sons, namely Shem, Ham, and Japheth.”

Genesis 6:11

Now the earth was corrupt

Quote: וַ⁠תִּשָּׁחֵ֥ת הָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The phrase the earth is often used in the Bible to refer to all the people on the earth. Consider whether your language can do the same thing, or whether it is necessary to make that implied information explicit. Alternate translation: “Now the people of the earth had become corrupt”

and the earth was filled {with} violence

Quote: וַ⁠תִּמָּלֵ֥א הָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ חָמָֽס (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

This clause forms a parallelism with the previous clause in order to emphasize how evil the people on the earth had become. The two clauses are different enough from each other that, if possible, it is best to keep both parts of the parallelism in your translation. Also be consistent with how you translated the earth earlier in this verse. Alternate translation: “and they had filled the earth with their lawlessness.” or “and all over the earth they were doing lawless things.”

Genesis 6:12

And God saw

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֧רְא אֱלֹהִ֛ים (1)

Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin this sentence with a conjunction.

the earth, and behold, it was corrupted

Quote: אֶת הָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ וְ⁠הִנֵּ֣ה נִשְׁחָ֑תָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated “corrupt” and the earth in verse 11. Alternate translation: “that everyone on the earth was very wicked,” or “how corrupt everyone on the earth had become,”

because all flesh on the earth

Quote: כִּֽי & כָּל בָּשָׂ֛ר & עַל הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The phrase all flesh refers here to all people and probably implies that people are mortal (verse 3). Alternate translation: “because everyone living on earth”

had corrupted its way

Quote: הִשְׁחִ֧ית & אֶת דַּרְכּ֖⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “were living wicked lives.” or “were continually doing wicked things.” or “were continually acting in evil ways.”

Genesis 6:13

So God said to Noah

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֜ים לְ⁠נֹ֗חַ (1)

Alternate translation: “Then God said to Noah,”

The end of all flesh has come before me

Quote: קֵ֤ץ כָּל בָּשָׂר֙ בָּ֣א לְ⁠פָנַ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Be consistent here with how you translated flesh in verse 12. Alternate translation: “I have decided to put an end to all human beings,” or “I am going to destroy all flesh”

because the earth is filled {with} violence because of them

Quote: כִּֽי מָלְאָ֥ה הָ⁠אָ֛רֶץ חָמָ֖ס מִ⁠פְּנֵי⁠הֶ֑ם (1)

See how you translated violence in verse 11. Alternate translation: “because they have filled the earth with their violence” or “because all over the earth they are doing lawless things.”

So behold, I

Quote: וְ⁠הִנְ⁠נִ֥י (1)

This phrase draws extra attention to what God says next. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language. Alternate translation: “Now listen,”

am destroying them

Quote: מַשְׁחִיתָ֖⁠ם (1)

Alternate translation: “I plan to destroy them” or “I will destroy them”

with the earth

Quote: אֶת הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

This phrase includes everything on the earth, not just the people. Alternate translation: “as well as everything else on the earth.”

Genesis 6:14

Make

Quote: עֲשֵׂ֤ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Alternate translation: “Consequently you must make”

an ark

Quote: תֵּבַ֣ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate

The term ark is general and refers to a chest/box that is closed on all sides, including the top. In this case, the ark was a very large boat that people and many animals lived in for a year. It had no motor, no oars, no sail and no rudder. Since this was a unique, one-of-a-kind boat that may already be well-known as the ark in the receptor language area, some translations transliterate (copy or borrow) the word ark throughout Genesis. Decide what is best for your translation. Alternate translation: “a very large houseboat”

for yourself

Quote: לְ⁠ךָ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Alternate translation: “for you and your family”

out of gopher wood

Quote: עֲצֵי גֹ֔פֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

It is not certain what kind of wood this was, so many translations transliterate (copy or borrow) the Hebrew word gopher. Some Bible scholars think it was cypress wood. Alternate translation: “from cypress wood which is good for building boats.”

Make the ark {with} rooms

Quote: קִנִּ֖ים תַּֽעֲשֶׂ֣ה אֶת הַ⁠תֵּבָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “Build the ark with stalls inside,” or “Make rooms inside the ark”

and cover it inside and outside

Quote: וְ⁠כָֽפַרְתָּ֥ אֹתָ֛⁠הּ מִ⁠בַּ֥יִת וּ⁠מִ⁠ח֖וּץ (1)

Alternate translation: “and completely coat it inside and outside”

with a covering

Quote: בַּ⁠כֹּֽפֶר (1)

The Hebrew word covering is general and does not specify what kind of waterproofing material is being used. However, many translations are more specific than that here and refer to “pitch” or “tar” or some other material made from tree resin or sap that can seal a boat well and keep it from leaking. Alternate translation: “with pitch to keep water out.” or “with pitch to keep the boat from leaking.”

Genesis 6:15

And this {is} how you must make it

Quote: וְ⁠זֶ֕ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר תַּֽעֲשֶׂ֖ה אֹתָ֑⁠הּ (1)

Alternate translation: “Build the ark with these dimensions” or “You must build the ark like this:”

the length of the ark {must be} 300 cubits, its width fifty cubits, and its height thirty cubits

Quote: שְׁלֹ֧שׁ מֵא֣וֹת אַמָּ֗ה אֹ֚רֶךְ הַ⁠תֵּבָ֔ה חֲמִשִּׁ֤ים אַמָּה֙ רָחְבָּ֔⁠הּ וּ⁠שְׁלֹשִׁ֥ים אַמָּ֖ה קוֹמָתָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance

A cubit was about half a meter (18 inches) long, which was the distance from a man’s elbow to the tip of his middle finger. You can: (1) translate cubits into meters or feet, and put the literal text in a footnote; or (2) keep cubits in the main text (so that the numbers 300, fifty/50 and thirty/30 are kept) and put what that equals in meters or feet in a footnote. Alternate translation: “It must be 140 meters long, 23 meters wide, and 14 meters high.” or “It must be 450 feet long, 75 feet wide, and 45 feet high.”

Genesis 6:16

Make a window for the ark and finish it to within one cubit from the top

Quote: צֹ֣הַר תַּֽעֲשֶׂ֣ה לַ⁠תֵּבָ֗ה וְ⁠אֶל אַמָּה֙ תְּכַלֶ֣⁠נָּה מִ⁠לְ⁠מַ֔עְלָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance

The meaning of the Hebrew text is not completely certain here, but God was probably telling Noah to make a one-cubit high window or opening at the top of the outside walls of the ark, just below the roof, all the way around the ark, to let light and air into the ark. See the note about cubit in verse 15. Alternate translation: “Build a skylight for the boat by finishing the sides of the ark to within one cubit below the top of the ark” or “Build a half-meter high window between the top of the sides of the ark and its roof all the way around, to let light and air in.”

And put the door of the ark in its side

Quote: וּ⁠פֶ֥תַח הַ⁠תֵּבָ֖ה בְּ⁠צִדָּ֣⁠הּ תָּשִׂ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Some translations begin this sentence without a conjunction (And or “Also”). Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Also put a door in the side of the ark” or “Put a door for the ark in its side.”

Make a lower, a second, and a third {deck

Quote: תַּחְתִּיִּ֛ם שְׁנִיִּ֥ם וּ⁠שְׁלִשִׁ֖ים תַּֽעֲשֶֽׂ⁠הָ (1)

Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Build a lower deck a middle deck and an upper deck on the inside.” or “and build a lower, middle, and upper story on the inside.” or “and make three complete floors on the inside.”

Genesis 6:17

And I, behold, I

Quote: וַ⁠אֲנִ֗י הִנְ⁠נִי֩ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns

In the Hebrew text, the pronoun I is emphatic, both by its form and by its position at the beginning of the sentence. Consider what is the best way to communicate that emphasis in your language. Alternate translation: “Behold I myself”

am bringing floodwaters on the earth

Quote: מֵבִ֨יא אֶת־הַ⁠מַּבּ֥וּל מַ֨יִם֙ עַל־הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “am going to send a flood on the whole earth” or “am going to flood the entire earth with water”

to destroy

Quote: לְ⁠שַׁחֵ֣ת (1)

See how you translated destroy in verse 13. Alternate translation: “in order to destroy”

all flesh

Quote: כָּל בָּשָׂ֗ר (1)

This phrase is general here and includes people and animals, so you may need to translate the phrase differently here from what you did earlier in verses 12-13 (where the focus seems to be on people). Alternate translation: “all the beings” or “every creature”

that {has} the breath of life in it

Quote: אֲשֶׁר בּ⁠וֹ֙ ר֣וּחַ חַיִּ֔ים (1)

See how you translated this phrase in Gen 1:30. Alternate translation: “that breathes air”

from under the heavens

Quote: מִ⁠תַּ֖חַת הַ⁠שָּׁמָ֑יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be clearer to put this phrase earlier in this sentence and say, “to destroy every living thing under the heavens/sky that has the breath of life in it.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “from under the sky.”

Everything that {is} on the earth

Quote: כֹּ֥ל אֲשֶׁר בָּ⁠אָ֖רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “As a result, every living being that lives on land”

will expire

Quote: יִגְוָֽע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The verb expire (which could also be translated “exhale” or “breathe out”) is used here as an idiom that means “die”. Consider whether your language has a similar or different idiom that would work well here. Alternate translation: “will breathe out its last breath!” or “will perish!”

Genesis 6:18

But I will establish

Quote: וַ⁠הֲקִמֹתִ֥י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

The word establish means to deliberately and formally put something into effect. Alternate translation: “However I will make” or “However I will set up”

my covenant with you

Quote: אֶת בְּרִיתִ֖⁠י אִתָּ֑⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

This covenant is made up of the unconditional, unbreakable promises that God made to Noah (and all mankind and all other living things) in Genesis 8:2-9:17. The word “testament” is another word for “covenant,” so the way you translate covenant here could be similar to the way you translate the titles “Old Testament” and “New Testament.” Alternate translation: “a covenant between me and you,” or “a peace agreement between me and you,”

so you must go into the ark

Quote: וּ⁠בָאתָ֙ אֶל הַ⁠תֵּבָ֔ה (1)

Alternate translation: “so you must enter the ark” or “so you must get on board the ark”

you and your sons and your wife and the wives of your sons with you

Quote: אַתָּ֕ה וּ⁠בָנֶ֛י⁠ךָ וְ⁠אִשְׁתְּ⁠ךָ֥ וּ⁠נְשֵֽׁי בָנֶ֖י⁠ךָ אִתָּֽ⁠ךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “and take with you your wife, your sons, and their wives.”

Genesis 6:19

And from every living {creature}, from all flesh, you must bring two from each {kind} into the ark

Quote: וּ⁠מִ⁠כָּל הָ֠⁠חַי מִֽ⁠כָּל בָּשָׂ֞ר שְׁנַ֧יִם מִ⁠כֹּ֛ל תָּבִ֥יא אֶל הַ⁠תֵּבָ֖ה (1)

Alternate translation: “Also, from every kind of living creature, yes, from every kind of animal, you must take pairs of each kind into the ark” or “You must also bring into the ark pairs of every kind of living creature, including every kind of animal,”

to keep alive with you

Quote: לְ⁠הַחֲיֹ֣ת אִתָּ֑⁠ךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “in order to keep them alive with you.”

They must be male and female

Quote: זָכָ֥ר וּ⁠נְקֵבָ֖ה יִֽהְיֽוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “They must be pairs with one male and one female each.” or “Each pair must have one male and one female.” or “Make sure that each pair has one male and one female.”

Genesis 6:20

From the birds according to their kinds

Quote: מֵ⁠הָ⁠ע֣וֹף לְ⁠מִינֵ֗⁠הוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “Males and females of every type of bird,”

and from the animals according to their kinds

Quote: וּ⁠מִן הַ⁠בְּהֵמָה֙ לְ⁠מִינָ֔⁠הּ (1)

Alternate translation: “and of every kind of animal,”

from every moving creature of the ground according to its kind

Quote: מִ⁠כֹּ֛ל רֶ֥מֶשׂ הָֽ⁠אֲדָמָ֖ה לְ⁠מִינֵ֑⁠הוּ (1)

This phrase emphasizes that the birds and animals mentioned in the first half of this verse lived on land. Alternate translation: “including every kind of creature that lives on the land,”

two from every {kind} will come to you

Quote: שְׁנַ֧יִם מִ⁠כֹּ֛ל יָבֹ֥אוּ אֵלֶ֖י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it is more natural to change the order of clauses in this sentence and say, “Two/Pairs of every kind of bird and every kind of animal, including every kind of creature that moves on the ground, will come to you … ” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “two of every kind of animal will come to you” or “two of each kind of animal will come to you”

to keep alive

Quote: לְ⁠הַֽחֲיֽוֹת (1)

Alternate translation: “to keep them alive on the ark” or “into the ark so that they stay alive.” or “so that you keep them alive in the ark”

Genesis 6:21

And you

Quote: וְ⁠אַתָּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

Although the pronoun you is singular in the Hebrew text in verse 21, it could be translated as plural, since God’s instructions apply to Noah and his family, not just Noah. Or you could make his family explicit. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “You and your family”

must take with you

Quote: קַח־לְ⁠ךָ֗ (1)

Alternate translation: “must also gather and take”

some of every food

Quote: מִ⁠כָּל מַֽאֲכָל֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “every kind of food”

that is eaten

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר יֵֽאָכֵ֔ל (1)

Alternate translation: “that is eaten by people and animals” or “that you and all the animals will need”

and store it with you

Quote: וְ⁠אָסַפְתָּ֖ אֵלֶ֑י⁠ךָ (1)

Alternate translation: “and put it on the ark with you,”

and it will be food

Quote: וְ⁠הָיָ֥ה & לְ⁠אָכְלָֽה (1)

Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “This will be the food supply”

for you

Quote: לְ⁠ךָ֛ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

Consider again how you translated the pronoun you in this verse.

Genesis 6:22

And Noah did {that

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֖עַשׂ נֹ֑חַ (1)

Some translations begin verse 22 without a conjunction. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Noah did all of that”

according to all that God had commanded him, so he did

Quote: כְּ֠⁠כֹל אֲשֶׁ֨ר צִוָּ֥ה אֹת֛⁠וֹ אֱלֹהִ֖ים כֵּ֥ן עָשָֽׂה (1)

Alternate translation: “he did everything just as God had told him to do.”

Genesis 7

Genesis 7:1

Then Yahweh said to Noah

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר יְהוָה֙ לְ⁠נֹ֔חַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

For some languages it may be necessary to make it explicit that the boat was completed before Yahweh told Noah to enter it. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Then after they had finished building the ark Yahweh told Noah,” or “After the ark was finished, Yahweh told Noah,”

Go into the ark, you and all your household

Quote: בֹּֽא אַתָּ֥ה וְ⁠כָל בֵּיתְ⁠ךָ֖ אֶל הַ⁠תֵּבָ֑ה (1)

See how you translated “ark/boat” in Gen 6:14-16. Alternate translation: “Board the ark along with your entire family,” or “You and your entire family must get into the ark”

because I have seen

Quote: כִּֽי & רָאִ֛יתִי (1)

Alternate translation: “because I have found” or “because I see”

that} you {are} righteous

Quote: אֹתְ⁠ךָ֥ & צַדִּ֥יק (1)

In the Hebrew text, the pronoun you is emphasized to show that Noah was the only one who was righteous. See how you translated righteous in Gen 6:9. Alternate translation: “that you alone are upright” or “that you are the only one who is living rightly” or “… living the right way”

before me

Quote: לְ⁠פָנַ֖⁠י (1)

Alternate translation: “in my eyes” or “according to my will”

in this generation

Quote: בַּ⁠דּ֥וֹר הַ⁠זֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be more natural to put this phrase earlier in this verse and say, “… you are the only one among the people living today who is righteous in my sight.” Do what is best in your language.

Genesis 7:2

From every clean animal

Quote: מִ⁠כֹּ֣ל הַ⁠בְּהֵמָ֣ה הַ⁠טְּהוֹרָ֗ה (1)

It may be necessary to include a footnote that explains the concept of clean and unclean animals: In the Bible a clean animal was an animal that was acceptable to be sacrificed to God or to be eaten, and an “unclean animal” was one that could not be sacrificed or eaten; it does not refer to how clean the animal was physically. Later Moses wrote down the laws about clean and unclean animals in the book of Leviticus. Alternate translation: “From every kind of pure animal” or “From every kind of animal that is acceptable to sacrifice”

take with you

Quote: תִּֽקַּח לְ⁠ךָ֛ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

The pronoun you is singular in the Hebrew text, but could be translated as a plural to include Noah’s family. Alternate translation: “bring with you”

seven pairs, a male and its female

Quote: שִׁבְעָ֥ה שִׁבְעָ֖ה אִ֣ישׁ וְ⁠אִשְׁתּ֑⁠וֹ (1)

See how you translated “male and female” in Gen 6:19.

and from {every} animal that {is} not clean

Quote: וּ⁠מִן הַ⁠בְּהֵמָ֡ה אֲ֠שֶׁר לֹ֣א טְהֹרָ֥ה (1)

Alternate translation: “and from every kind of impure animal” or “and from every kind of animal that is not acceptable to sacrifice”

take} two, a male and its female

Quote: שְׁנַ֖יִם אִ֥ישׁ וְ⁠אִשְׁתּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be better to change the order of the phrases in this sentence and say, “Take with you seven male and female pairs of every kind of clean/pure animal, and one male and female pair of every kind of unclean/impure animal,” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “take a male and female pair,”

Genesis 7:3

also

Quote: גַּ֣ם (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “and also” or “In addition,”

from {every} bird of the sky

Quote: מֵ⁠ע֧וֹף הַ⁠שָּׁמַ֛יִם (1)

Alternate translation: “from every type of bird that flies in the sky” or “from every type of bird”

take} seven pairs, male and female

Quote: שִׁבְעָ֥ה שִׁבְעָ֖ה זָכָ֣ר וּ⁠נְקֵבָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 2. Also, for some languages it may be better to put this phrase earlier in this sentence and say, “Also take seven male and female pairs of every kind of bird that flies in the sky/air …” Do what is best in your language.

to keep {their} offspring alive

Quote: לְ⁠חַיּ֥וֹת זֶ֖רַע (1)

Alternate translation: “so that later they will have offspring that will live”

on the surface of the whole earth

Quote: עַל פְּנֵ֥י כָל הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “and spread all over the earth,” or “to repopulate the whole earth,”

Genesis 7:4

because

Quote: כִּי֩ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

For many languages it is more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “The reason you must do that is”

in seven more days

Quote: לְ⁠יָמִ֨ים ע֜וֹד שִׁבְעָ֗ה (1)

The phrase, seven more days could be translated “another week” here and in verse 11. However, it is probably best to keep the number seven in the text in both places, especially since the number seven often signifies perfection or completion in the Bible, perhaps also here. Alternate translation: “seven days from now”

I will cause it to rain

Quote: אָֽנֹכִי֙ מַמְטִ֣יר (1)

Alternate translation: “I will send rain”

on the earth

Quote: עַל הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “all over the world”

for} forty days and forty nights

Quote: אַרְבָּעִ֣ים י֔וֹם וְ⁠אַרְבָּעִ֖ים לָ֑יְלָה (1)

This phrase refers to forty complete 24-hour days.

and I will wipe

Quote: וּ⁠מָחִ֗יתִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated this idiom in Gen 6:7. Alternate translation: “in order to blot out” or “That will wash away”

every living thing that I have made

Quote: אֶֽת כָּל הַ⁠יְקוּם֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָשִׂ֔יתִי (1)

See how you translated a similar phrase (“living creature”) in Gen 6:19. Alternate translation: “all the living things that I have made”

off the surface of the ground

Quote: מֵ⁠עַ֖ל פְּנֵ֥י הָֽ⁠אֲדָמָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

It may be clearer to put this phrase earlier in the sentence and say, “in order to completely destroy from/off the ground/earth every living creature/thing that I have made.” Do what is best in your language. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 6:7. Alternate translation: “off the surface of the earth.” or “off the land.”

Genesis 7:5

Then Noah did all that

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֖עַשׂ נֹ֑חַ כְּ⁠כֹ֥ל אֲשֶׁר (1)

Alternate translation: “So Noah did everything that” or “So Noah did everything exactly as”

Yahweh had commanded him

Quote: צִוָּ֖⁠הוּ יְהוָֽה (1)

See how you translated Gen 6:22 which is similar to 7:5. Alternate translation: “Yahweh had told him to do.”

Genesis 7:6

Now Noah {was} a son of 600 years

Quote: וְ⁠נֹ֕חַ בֶּן שֵׁ֥שׁ מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers

See how you handled large numbers in Gen 5 and in Gen 6:3, and see the note about this at Gen 5:3. Also see how you translated the idiom “son of … years” in Gen 5:32. Alternate translation: “He was 600 years old”

when the floodwaters came on the earth

Quote: וְ⁠הַ⁠מַּבּ֣וּל הָיָ֔ה מַ֖יִם עַל הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be more natural to put this clause first in this sentence and say, “When the flood waters came on the earth, Noah was 600 years old.” Do what is best in your language. Also, see how you translated floodwaters in Gen 6:17. Alternate translation: “when the earth was covered with deep water.”

Genesis 7:7

And Noah and his sons and his wife and the wives of his sons went with him into the ark

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֣בֹא נֹ֗חַ וּ֠⁠בָנָי⁠ו וְ⁠אִשְׁתּ֧⁠וֹ וּ⁠נְשֵֽׁי בָנָ֛י⁠ו אִתּ֖⁠וֹ אֶל הַ⁠תֵּבָ֑ה (1)

Noah and his family entered the ark on the same day that the floodwaters started coming (See verses 11-13). See how you translated a similar list of people in Gen 6:18. Alternate translation: “That is when Noah and his wife, and his sons and their wives, went together into the ark”

from the presence of

Quote: מִ⁠פְּנֵ֖י (1)

Alternate translation: “because of” or “to escape from” or “to keep them safe from”

the waters of the flood

Quote: מֵ֥י הַ⁠מַּבּֽוּל (1)

Alternate translation: “the floodwaters.”

Genesis 7:8

Pairs} from the clean animal{s} and from the animal{s} that are not clean

Quote: מִן הַ⁠בְּהֵמָה֙ הַ⁠טְּהוֹרָ֔ה וּ⁠מִן הַ֨⁠בְּהֵמָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר אֵינֶ֖נָּ⁠ה טְהֹרָ֑ה (1)

See how you translated clean and “unclean” animals in verse 2. Alternate translation: “Also, every kind of clean animal and every kind of unclean animal”

and everything that moves on the ground

Quote: וְ⁠כֹ֥ל אֲשֶׁר רֹמֵ֖שׂ עַל הָֽ⁠אֲדָמָֽה (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “including every kind of creature/animal that moves/lives on land,” or “which includes every kind of creature/animal that moves/lives on land,” According to this interpretation, the rest of verse 8 emphasizes that the clean and unclean animals and birds (verses 2-3, 8) were all creatures that lived on land (which are the creatures that the flood affected). Or it could mean: (2) “as well as every kind of creature/animal that crawls/creeps along the ground”. According to this interpretation, the rest of verse 8 refers to a fourth category of creatures besides the clean animals, unclean animals, and birds.

Genesis 7:9

went two {by} two to Noah into the ark

Quote: שְׁנַ֨יִם שְׁנַ֜יִם בָּ֧אוּ אֶל נֹ֛חַ אֶל הַ⁠תֵּבָ֖ה (1)

Alternate translation: “came to Noah in pairs and went into the ark” or “came in pairs and entered the ark with Noah,”

male and female

Quote: זָכָ֣ר וּ⁠נְקֵבָ֑ה (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Each pair had one male and one female,”

just as God had commanded Noah

Quote: כַּֽ⁠אֲשֶׁ֛ר צִוָּ֥ה אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶת נֹֽחַ (1)

Alternate translation: “which was exactly what God had told Noah to bring along.”

Genesis 7:10

And it happened

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִ֖י (1)

This phrase focuses attention on an important event (the beginning of the flood), and it builds suspense so that readers and listeners wonder what will happen next. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language. Alternate translation: “Then”

after the seven days

Quote: לְ⁠שִׁבְעַ֣ת הַ⁠יָּמִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to the seven days which God talked about in verse 4. It does not mean seven days after Noah and the animals went into the ark (verses 7-9); they went into the ark on the same day that the flood started (verse 13). Translate the beginning of this sentence in a way that makes that clear. Alternate translation: “after seven days,”

then the waters of the flood came on

Quote: וּ⁠מֵ֣י הַ⁠מַּבּ֔וּל הָי֖וּ עַל (1)

Alternate translation: “the floodwaters started to come on” or “water started to cover”

the earth

Quote: הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “the whole earth.”

Genesis 7:11

In the six hundredth year of Noah’s life

Quote: בִּ⁠שְׁנַ֨ת שֵׁשׁ־מֵא֤וֹת שָׁנָה֙ לְ⁠חַיֵּי נֹ֔חַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

Compare how you translated Noah’s age in verse 6.

in the second month, on the seventeenth day of the month

Quote: בַּ⁠חֹ֨דֶשׁ֙ הַ⁠שֵּׁנִ֔י בְּ⁠שִׁבְעָֽה עָשָׂ֥ר י֖וֹם לַ⁠חֹ֑דֶשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it is more natural to switch the phrase order and say which day it is before giving the month. Do what is natural in your language.

on that day

Quote: בַּ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠זֶּ֗ה (1)

Alternate translation: “on that same day” or “that is the day when”

all the fountains of

Quote: כָּֽל מַעְיְנֹת֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “all the underground water sources”

burst open

Quote: נִבְקְעוּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be more natural to put this phrase earlier and say, “water started gushing/pouring out of all the fountains/springs in the deep ocean,” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “split open,” or “started gushing out water,”

and the windows of the heavens were opened

Quote: וַ⁠אֲרֻבֹּ֥ת הַ⁠שָּׁמַ֖יִם נִפְתָּֽחוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This metaphor describes the beginning of a very heavy rainfall; it does not refer to actual windows. Alternate translation: “and all the windows in the sky were opened by God,” or “God also caused the water in the heavens to start coming down, as if he had opened huge faucets in the heavens”

Genesis 7:12

so that the rain fell

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִ֥י הַ⁠גֶּ֖שֶׁם (1)

Alternate translation: “so that heavy rain poured continuously”

on the earth

Quote: עַל הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “all over the world”

forty days and forty nights

Quote: אַרְבָּעִ֣ים י֔וֹם וְ⁠אַרְבָּעִ֖ים לָֽיְלָה (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 4.

Genesis 7:13

On that same day

Quote: בְּ⁠עֶ֨צֶם הַ⁠יּ֤וֹם הַ⁠זֶּה֙ (1)

This is the same day that is mentioned in verse 11, when the flood started. Verses 13-16 repeat what happened, in order to emphasize it. Make sure that a translation does not sound like this is the second (or third) time that Noah and his family and the animals entered the ark. Alternate translation: “So it was that on the very same day that the rain started,”

Noah and Shem and Ham and Japheth, the sons of Noah, and the wife of Noah and the three wives of his sons with them

Quote: נֹ֔חַ וְ⁠שֵׁם וְ⁠חָ֥ם וָ⁠יֶ֖פֶת בְּנֵי נֹ֑חַ וְ⁠אֵ֣שֶׁת נֹ֗חַ וּ⁠שְׁלֹ֧שֶׁת נְשֵֽׁי בָנָ֛י⁠ו אִתָּ֖⁠ם (1)

See how you translated a similar sentence in verse 7. Alternate translation: “Noah and his wife and their sons, Shem, Ham, and Japheth, and their three wives all”

went into the ark

Quote: בָּ֣א & אֶל הַ⁠תֵּבָֽה (1)

Alternate translation: “boarded the ark”

Genesis 7:14

they and every

Quote: הֵ֜מָּה וְ⁠כָל (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “They took with them every”

and every living thing according to its kind, and every

Quote: וְ⁠כָל הַֽ⁠חַיָּ֣ה לְ⁠מִינָ֗⁠הּ וְ⁠כָל (1)

In the Hebrew text this phrase is ambiguous. It could mean: (1) “every kind of living thing/creature, including every” or (2) “every kind of wild animal, and every”. The animal groups listed in verse 14 show that every kind of animal was to be brought onto the ark. Your language may have a different way of grouping animals. Make sure it is clear in your translation of this verse that all the different kinds of birds and land animals are included.

and every livestock according to its kind

Quote: וְ⁠כָל הַ⁠בְּהֵמָה֙ לְ⁠מִינָ֔⁠הּ (1)

Alternate translation: “every kind of tame animal,”

and every moving creature moving on the earth according to its kind

Quote: וְ⁠כָל הָ⁠רֶ֛מֶשׂ הָ⁠רֹמֵ֥שׂ עַל הָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ לְ⁠מִינֵ֑⁠הוּ (1)

In the Hebrew text, this phrase is ambiguous. It could mean: (1) “and every other kind of creature/animal that moves/lives on the earth/land,” which seems to fit this context best; or (2) “and every kind of creature/animal that crawls on the ground,”

and every bird according to its kind, every bird of every wing

Quote: וְ⁠כָל הָ⁠ע֣וֹף לְ⁠מִינֵ֔⁠הוּ כֹּ֖ל צִפּ֥וֹר כָּל כָּנָֽף (1)

This phrase probably refers not only to birds, but also to other creatures that have wings and fly, such as bats and insects. Alternate translation: “and every kind of bird and everything else that has wings.” or “and every kind of bird and every other kind of creature that flies.”

Genesis 7:15

So they went to Noah into the ark

Quote: וַ⁠יָּבֹ֥אוּ אֶל נֹ֖חַ אֶל הַ⁠תֵּבָ֑ה (1)

See how you translated a similar clause in verse 9. Alternate translation: “They came to Noah and came into the ark,” or “They entered the ark with Noah,”

two {by} two from all flesh

Quote: שְׁנַ֤יִם שְׁנַ֨יִם֙ מִ⁠כָּל הַ⁠בָּשָׂ֔ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The word flesh refers here to any kind of creature or animal. Alternate translation: “pairs of every kind of animal” or “pairs of every kind of living thing”

which {has} in it the breath of life

Quote: אֲשֶׁר בּ֖⁠וֹ ר֥וּחַ חַיִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

See how you translated this phrase in Gen 6:17. For some languages it may be better to change the order of the clauses in this verse and say, “Pairs of every kind of living thing that breathes air came to Noah and went into the boat.” Do what is best in your language.

Genesis 7:16

And those that went in

Quote: וְ⁠הַ⁠בָּאִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

Consider whether it is better in your language to use went or “came” here. Also consider again how you translated went in verses 7, 9, 13, and 15. Alternate translation: “The pairs that came into the ark” or “Those animals”

from all flesh

Quote: מִ⁠כָּל בָּשָׂר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See how you translated all flesh in verse 15. Alternate translation: “of every kind of creature” or “of every kind of living thing,”

they went in just as God had commanded him

Quote: בָּ֔אוּ כַּֽ⁠אֲשֶׁ֛ר צִוָּ֥ה אֹת֖⁠וֹ אֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)

See how you translated “just as God commanded him” in verse 9. Alternate translation: “which was exactly what God had commanded him to bring along.”

Then Yahweh shut him in

Quote: וַ⁠יִּסְגֹּ֥ר יְהוָ֖ה בַּֽעֲדֽ⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “After that, Yahweh shut them in the ark” or “Then after they were all inside, Yahweh shut the door of the ark behind him”

Genesis 7:17

Then the flood came

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִ֧י הַ⁠מַּבּ֛וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential

Some translations begin this sentence without a conjunction. Do what is natural in your language. Also, notice that verses 17-20 talk about the forty days and nights that the flood kept getting deeper and deeper. Alternate translation: “After that the floodwaters kept getting deeper and deeper” or “The water kept coming”

for} forty days

Quote: אַרְבָּעִ֥ים י֖וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be more natural to put this time phrase first in this sentence and say, “For forty days and forty nights the flood kept getting deeper and deeper all over the earth,” Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated this phrase in verse 12. Alternate translation: “for forty days and forty nights,”

and the waters increased

Quote: וַ⁠יִּרְבּ֣וּ הַ⁠מַּ֗יִם (1)

Alternate translation: “and as the water level rose,” or “As the water got deeper and deeper,”

and lifted the ark so that it rose up off the earth

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׂאוּ֙ אֶת הַ⁠תֵּבָ֔ה וַ⁠תָּ֖רָם מֵ⁠עַ֥ל הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “it lifted up the ark so that it floated on the water high above the earth” or “it made the ark rise up off the ground and float.”

Genesis 7:18

And the waters rose

Quote: וַ⁠יִּגְבְּר֥וּ הַ⁠מַּ֛יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Verse 18 repeats some of verse 17 to emphasize what happened. Consider what is the best way to begin this sentence in your language. Alternate translation: “So the floodwaters continued to rise and get much higher” or “Yes, the water continued …” or “The water continued …”

on the earth

Quote: עַל הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “all over the world,”

and the ark went

Quote: וַ⁠תֵּ֥לֶךְ הַ⁠תֵּבָ֖ה (1)

Alternate translation: “but the ark floated safely” or “so that the ark moved about”

on the surface of the waters

Quote: עַל פְּנֵ֥י הַ⁠מָּֽיִם (1)

Alternate translation: “on the surface of the water.” or “on top of the water.”

Genesis 7:19

And the waters rose very greatly on the earth

Quote: וְ⁠הַ⁠מַּ֗יִם גָּֽבְר֛וּ מְאֹ֥ד מְאֹ֖ד עַל הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “At last, the waters became very deep over the world, so that” or “Eventually the water became so deep on the world that”

so that … were covered

Quote: וַ⁠יְכֻסּ֗וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

For some languages it is better to use an active form of the verb here and say, “Eventually the water became so deep on the earth that it even covered all the highest mountains under the entire sky.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “were covered by water.” or “were submerged in water.”

Genesis 7:20

The waters rose fifteen cubits above {them

Quote: חֲמֵ֨שׁ עֶשְׂרֵ֤ה אַמָּה֙ מִ⁠לְ⁠מַ֔עְלָ⁠ה גָּבְר֖וּ הַ⁠מָּ֑יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance

See how you translated cubits in Gen 6:15-16. Alternate translation: “In fact, the highest mountain tops were covered by at least twenty-two feet of water,”

so that the mountains were covered

Quote: וַ⁠יְכֻסּ֖וּ הֶ⁠הָרִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

See how you translated were covered in verse 19. Alternate translation: “so that they were completely covered with water.” or “… completely submerged in water.” or “… completely under water.”

Genesis 7:21

all flesh

Quote: כָּל בָּשָׂ֣ר (1)

This phrase refers to everything listed in verse 21, including people. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 6:17. Alternate translation: “Then all the beings” or “Then every creature” or “Then every living thing”

that moved on the earth

Quote: הָ⁠רֹמֵ֣שׂ עַל הָ⁠אָ֗רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “that moved on the ground”

Then … expired

Quote: וַ⁠יִּגְוַ֞ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this idiom in Gen 6:17. Alternate translation: “breathed out its last breath,” or “perished,”

including the birds and the livestock

Quote: בָּ⁠ע֤וֹף וּ⁠בַ⁠בְּהֵמָה֙ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “including all the birds, the tame animals,”

and the living things

Quote: וּ⁠בַ֣⁠חַיָּ֔ה (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “and the other living things/creatures” or (2) “and the wild animals”

and all the swarming things swarming on the earth

Quote: וּ⁠בְ⁠כָל הַ⁠שֶּׁ֖רֶץ הַ⁠שֹּׁרֵ֣ץ עַל הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “including every kind of animal that lived in large numbers on the earth,”

and all mankind

Quote: וְ⁠כֹ֖ל הָ⁠אָדָֽם (1)

Alternate translation: “in addition to all the human beings.”

Genesis 7:22

Everything that {had} the breath of the spirit of life in its nostrils

Quote: כֹּ֡ל אֲשֶׁר֩ נִשְׁמַת ר֨וּחַ חַיִּ֜ים בְּ⁠אַפָּ֗י⁠ו (1)

See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 15. Alternate translation: “Every living thing that breathed air”

everything that {lived} on dry land, died

Quote: מִ⁠כֹּ֛ל אֲשֶׁ֥ר בֶּ⁠חָֽרָבָ֖ה מֵֽתוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “and was on dry land died.”

Genesis 7:23

So he wiped away

Quote: וַ⁠יִּ֜מַח (1)

See how you translated this idiom in verse 4. Alternate translation: “That is how Yahweh washed away” or “In that way, Yahweh blotted out” or “… completely destroyed”

every living thing

Quote: אֶֽת כָּל הַ⁠יְק֣וּם (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 4. Alternate translation: “every living creature” or “all living things”

that {was} on the surface of the ground

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר עַל פְּנֵ֣י הָֽ⁠אֲדָמָ֗ה (1)

See how you translated the surface of the ground in verse 4. Alternate translation: “that was on the surface of the earth,” or “that were on the land,”

including mankind

Quote: מֵ⁠אָדָ֤ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

See how you translated mankind in verse 21. Alternate translation: “including all mankind”

and livestock and crawling creatures

Quote: עַד בְּהֵמָה֙ עַד רֶ֨מֶשׂ֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “and all the livestock and all the other animals that moved on the ground” or “and all the animals, including smaller animals that crawl on the ground”

and also the birds of the sky

Quote: וְ⁠עַד ע֣וֹף הַ⁠שָּׁמַ֔יִם (1)

Some languages leave out the phrase of the sky because it is not natural. Do what is best in your language.

So they were wiped off the earth

Quote: וַ⁠יִּמָּח֖וּ מִן הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated “wipe … off” in verse 4. Alternate translation: “All of them were completely washed off the earth by God,” or “He completely destroyed them all from the earth,” or “Yes, God completely destroyed everything that lived on the earth,”

and only Noah was left

Quote: וַ⁠יִשָּׁ֧אֶר אַךְ נֹ֛חַ (1)

Some translations leave out the first conjunction and begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “so that only Noah was left alive, along with” or “so that the only ones who were left alive were Noah and” or “Only Noah survived, along with”

and {those} who {were} with him in the ark

Quote: וַֽ⁠אֲשֶׁ֥ר אִתּ֖⁠וֹ בַּ⁠תֵּבָֽה (1)

Alternate translation: “and his family and the animals that were with him in the ark” or “along with his family …”

Genesis 7:24

And the waters prevailed over

Quote: וַ⁠יִּגְבְּר֥וּ הַ⁠מַּ֖יִם עַל (1)

Alternate translation: “Deep water continued to flood” or “The floodwaters stayed deep over”

the earth {for} 150 days

Quote: הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ חֲמִשִּׁ֥ים וּ⁠מְאַ֖ת יֽוֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers

See how you handled a large number in verse 6. Alternate translation: “the entire earth for 150 days.”

Genesis 8

Genesis 8:1

But God remembered

Quote: וַ⁠יִּזְכֹּ֤ר אֱלֹהִים֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase God remembered is an idiom in the Bible that often means God was paying special attention to certain people and was about to do something. Make sure that the way you translate this phrase does not imply that God had forgotten about Noah. Alternate translation: “God kept in mind” or “But God did not forget”

Noah

Quote: אֶת נֹ֔חַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Noah is the person that the author is focusing on here, but Noah’s family is also included. Consider whether or not you need to make that explicit in your translation.

and all the living thing{s} and

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֤ת כָּל הַֽ⁠חַיָּה֙ וְ⁠אֶת (1)

In the Hebrew text this phrase is ambiguous. It could mean: (1) “and all the creatures/animals, including” or (2) “and all the wild animals and”. See how you translated “living thing” in Gen 7:14.

all the livestock that {were} with him in the ark

Quote: כָּל הַ⁠בְּהֵמָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר אִתּ֖⁠וֹ בַּ⁠תֵּבָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

Some translations combine this phrase with the previous phrase and say, “and all the animals, both wild and tame/domestic, that were with him/them in the ark/boat.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “all the tame animals that were with him in the ark”

and God caused a wind to pass over

Quote: וַ⁠יַּעֲבֵ֨ר אֱלֹהִ֥ים ר֨וּחַ֙ עַל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “and he sent a wind over” or “So God sent a wind to blow over”

the earth

Quote: הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Alternate translation: “the water that was over the earth,”

and the waters subsided

Quote: וַ⁠יָּשֹׁ֖כּוּ הַ⁠מָּֽיִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Notice that the floodwaters did not go all the way down until verse 14, so the way you translate this clause should allow for that. Alternate translation: “so that the water started to recede” or “so that the water level started to go down.”

Genesis 8:2

And the fountains of the deep and the windows of the heavens were closed

Quote: וַ⁠יִּסָּֽכְרוּ֙ מַעְיְנֹ֣ת תְּה֔וֹם וַֽ⁠אֲרֻבֹּ֖ת הַ⁠שָּׁמָ֑יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

See how you translated some of the same words and phrases in Gen 7:11. Alternate translation: “He also caused the fountains in the deep ocean to stop gushing out water, and he caused the rain to stop pouring from the sky,” or “God also stopped the water from gushing out of springs at the bottom of the ocean, and the rain from coming from the heavens”

and the rain from the heavens was stopped

Quote: וַ⁠יִּכָּלֵ֥א הַ⁠גֶּ֖שֶׁם מִן הַ⁠שָּׁמָֽיִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

Consider whether it is better in your language to use an active or a passive verb here and in the previous clause. Alternate translation: “so that rain stopped falling from the sky.”

Genesis 8:3

Then the waters receded steadily

Quote: וַ⁠יָּשֻׁ֧בוּ הַ⁠מַּ֛יִם & הָל֣וֹךְ וָ⁠שׁ֑וֹב (1)

Alternate translation: “Then the floodwaters gradually went down”

from the earth

Quote: מֵ⁠עַ֥ל הָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “from the surface of the ground,”

at} the end of the 150 days

Quote: מִ⁠קְצֵ֕ה חֲמִשִּׁ֥ים וּ⁠מְאַ֖ת יֽוֹם (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also make sure it is clear in your translation that the 150 days mentioned here in Gen 8:3 are the same 150 days mentioned in Gen 7:24, not two different periods of time. Alternate translation: “so that after the 150 days had passed,”

the waters

Quote: הַ⁠מַּ֔יִם (1)

Make sure the way you translate this phrase fits with the way you translated the beginning of the verse. Alternate translation: “the water level” or “it”

and {… had decreased

Quote: וַ⁠יַּחְסְר֣וּ (1)

Alternate translation: “had subsided,”

Genesis 8:4

so that … rested

Quote: וַ⁠תָּ֤נַח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Alternate translation: “so low that”

in the seventh month, on the seventeenth day of the month

Quote: בַּ⁠חֹ֣דֶשׁ הַ⁠שְּׁבִיעִ֔י בְּ⁠שִׁבְעָה עָשָׂ֥ר י֖וֹם לַ⁠חֹ֑דֶשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

See how you translated a similar time phrase in Gen 7:11.

so that … the ark rested

Quote: וַ⁠תָּ֤נַח הַ⁠תֵּבָה֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “the ark came to rest” or “the ark landed”

on the mountains

Quote: עַ֖ל הָרֵ֥י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The ark landed on one mountain in a mountain range. Alternate translation: “on a mountain”

of Ararat

Quote: אֲרָרָֽט (1)

Alternate translation: “in the land of Ararat.”

Genesis 8:5

And the waters

Quote: וְ⁠הַ⁠מַּ֗יִם (1)

Alternate translation: “Then the water” or “The water”

continued to decrease

Quote: הָיוּ֙ הָל֣וֹךְ וְ⁠חָס֔וֹר (1)

See how you translated “decreased” in verse 3. Alternate translation: “continued to go away” or “kept subsiding”

until the tenth month. In the tenth month, on the first of the month

Quote: עַ֖ד הַ⁠חֹ֣דֶשׁ הָֽ⁠עֲשִׂירִ֑י בָּֽ⁠עֲשִׂירִי֙ בְּ⁠אֶחָ֣ד לַ⁠חֹ֔דֶשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

See how you translated a similar time phrase in verse 4. Alternate translation: “until the tenth month of the year. On the first day of that month,”

the tops of the mountains

Quote: רָאשֵׁ֥י הֶֽ⁠הָרִֽים (1)

Alternate translation: “the mountaintops”

could be seen

Quote: נִרְא֖וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Alternate translation: “could be seen above the water by Noah.” or “appeared above the surface of the water.”

Genesis 8:6

Then it happened {at} the end of forty days

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִ֕י מִ⁠קֵּ֖ץ אַרְבָּעִ֣ים י֑וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The phrase Then it happened focuses attention on what happens next, and it builds suspense so that readers and listeners wonder what the outcome will be. Some translations leave this phrase out, but that loses some of the suspense. Do what is best in your language.

that Noah opened the window

Quote: וַ⁠יִּפְתַּ֣ח נֹ֔חַ אֶת חַלּ֥וֹן (1)

It is not clear when Noah made this window. It may refer to the opening around the top of the walls of the ark (Gen 6:16) or a different window that he made sometime later.

of the ark that he had made

Quote: הַ⁠תֵּבָ֖ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר עָשָֽׂה (1)

Alternate translation: “that he had made in the ark”

Genesis 8:7

and he sent out

Quote: וַ⁠יְשַׁלַּ֖ח (1)

Alternate translation: “and he set free”

the raven

Quote: אֶת הָֽ⁠עֹרֵ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknowns

A raven is a large, black scavenger bird that eats whatever it finds, including dead animals. If the people in your language area are not familiar with ravens, you could make a comparison to a similar bird that they are familiar with and say, “a large black bird like a …” Or you could include a footnote that explains what a raven is. Alternate translation: “a large black bird called a raven”

and it kept flying out and returning

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּצֵ֤א יָצוֹא֙ וָ⁠שׁ֔וֹב (1)

Alternate translation: “which continued flying back and forth outside the boat” or “but it kept flying around outside the boat”

until the waters

Quote: עַד & הַ⁠מַּ֖יִם (1)

Alternate translation: “until the floodwaters”

dried up from the earth

Quote: יְבֹ֥שֶׁת & מֵ⁠עַ֥ל הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)

This phrase refers to the ground/land (as verse 8 confirms), not the entire planet. Alternate translation: “had dried up more from the ground”

Genesis 8:8

Then he sent out

Quote: וַ⁠יְשַׁלַּ֥ח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous

The events in verse 8 happened while the raven was still flying back and forth (verse 7). Consider what conjunction best communicates that in your language. Alternate translation: “Then he also sent out” or “Then he also released”

the dove from him

Quote: אֶת הַ⁠יּוֹנָ֖ה מֵ⁠אִתּ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A dove is a small, white or gray bird that makes a cooing sound. If doves are unknown in your language area, you could make a comparison to a similar bird they are familiar with and say, “a small white/gray bird like a …” Or you could include a footnote that explains what a dove is. Alternate translation: “a dove that was with him” or “a dove from the ark” or “a small bird called a dove”

to see if the waters had subsided

Quote: לִ⁠רְאוֹת֙ הֲ⁠קַ֣לּוּ הַ⁠מַּ֔יִם (1)

Alternate translation: “to find out if the floodwaters had receded”

from the surface of the ground

Quote: מֵ⁠עַ֖ל פְּנֵ֥י הָֽ⁠אֲדָמָֽה (1)

Alternate translation: “from the surface of the land.” or “from the ground”

Genesis 8:9

But the dove did not find

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־מָצְאָה֩ הַ⁠יּוֹנָ֨ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider what is the best way to refer to the dove at this point in the paragraph in your language. Alternate translation: “But the dove could not find” or “But it was not able to find”

a resting place for the sole of its feet

Quote: מָנ֜וֹחַ לְ⁠כַף רַגְלָ֗⁠הּ (1)

In Hebrew the word dove is grammatically a feminine noun (for both male and female doves), so some translations say “her feet … she returned …” here. For languages such as English that do not assign grammatical gender to nouns, it is more accurate to use its and it here, because it is not known whether this dove was male or female. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “anywhere to perch and rest,”

so it returned

Quote: וַ⁠תָּ֤שָׁב (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “So it returned” or “So the dove flew back”

to him in the ark

Quote: אֵלָי⁠ו֙ אֶל הַ⁠תֵּבָ֔ה (1)

Alternate translation: “flew back to him at the ark”

because the waters {were} over the surface of the entire earth

Quote: כִּי מַ֖יִם עַל פְּנֵ֣י כָל הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

Some languages may have to switch the clause order in this verse and say, “But water was still covering the entire earth/world, so the dove did/could not find a resting place for its feet. Then it returned to Noah at the boat, and he/Noah reached …” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “because water was still covering the entire world.”

And he reached out his hand

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁלַ֤ח יָד⁠וֹ֙ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “So he reached out” or “and he reached out”

to him into the ark

Quote: אֵלָ֖י⁠ו אֶל הַ⁠תֵּבָֽה (1)

Alternate translation: “back to himself in the ark” or “back into the ark”

Genesis 8:10

Then he waited

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֣חֶל ע֔וֹד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Consider whether it is better in your language to begin this sentence with or without a conjunction. Alternate translation: “He waited”

and again sent out the dove from the ark

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֛סֶף שַׁלַּ֥ח אֶת הַ⁠יּוֹנָ֖ה מִן הַ⁠תֵּבָֽה (1)

Alternate translation: “then he sent the dove out from the ark another time.” or “then he released the dove from the ark again.”

Genesis 8:11

Then the dove returned to him at evening time

Quote: וַ⁠תָּבֹ֨א אֵלָ֤י⁠ו הַ⁠יּוֹנָה֙ לְ⁠עֵ֣ת עֶ֔רֶב (1)

Alternate translation: “That evening the dove returned to Noah,” or “When it was evening, the dove returned to him”

and behold

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּ֥ה (1)

Alternate translation: “and surprisingly,” or “and Noah saw that”

there was} a freshly picked olive leaf in its mouth

Quote: עֲלֵה זַ֖יִת טָרָ֣ף בְּ⁠פִ֑י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

An olive tree produces small, oval, green fruit that has a hard pit. Olives are used for food and as a source of cooking oil. If olive trees are unknown in your language area, you could include a footnote about them. Alternate translation: “it was holding a newly picked green leaf from an olive tree in its mouth” or “the dove had a green leaf in its mouth that it had just picked from an olive tree.”

So Noah knew

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֣דַע נֹ֔חַ (1)

Alternate translation: “Then Noah realized” or “That is how he knew”

that the waters

Quote: כִּי & הַ⁠מַּ֖יִם (1)

Alternate translation: “that the floodwaters”

had subsided

Quote: קַ֥לּוּ (1)

See how you translated subsided in verse 8, and how you translated three other Hebrew words with similar meanings In verses 1, 3, and 5. Alternate translation: “had receded” or “had gone down more”

from the earth

Quote: מֵ⁠עַ֥ל הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 7. Alternate translation: “from the ground”

Genesis 8:12

Then he waited another seven days, and he sent out the dove

Quote: וַ⁠יִּיָּ֣חֶל ע֔וֹד שִׁבְעַ֥ת יָמִ֖ים אֲחֵרִ֑ים וַ⁠יְשַׁלַּח֙ אֶת־הַ⁠יּוֹנָ֔ה (1)

See how you translated sent out in verses 7, 8, and 10. Alternate translation: “He waited another seven days, then he released the dove again,” or “After he waited seven more days, he released the dove again,”

but it did not return to him again

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא יָסְפָ֥ה שׁוּב אֵלָ֖י⁠ו עֽוֹד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Remember to only make implied information explicit in a translation if it helps readers’ understanding or if it is necessary to prevent wrong meaning or incorrect grammar. Alternate translation: “but this time it did not fly back to him again because it found a dry place to land”

Genesis 8:13

So it happened

Quote: וַֽ֠⁠יְהִי (1)

Alternate translation: “So it happened that”

in the six hundred and first year

Quote: בְּ⁠אַחַ֨ת וְ⁠שֵׁשׁ־מֵא֜וֹת שָׁנָ֗ה (1)

See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 7:11.

in the first {month}, on the first {day} of the month

Quote: בָּֽ⁠רִאשׁוֹן֙ בְּ⁠אֶחָ֣ד לַ⁠חֹ֔דֶשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

Alternate translation: “in the first month of the year, on the first day of the month,”

the waters were drying up

Quote: חָֽרְב֥וּ הַ⁠מַּ֖יִם (1)

Make sure your translation of this phrase fits with the fact that the ground was not yet dry enough to get out of the ark. That did not happen until the end of the second month (verse 14). Alternate translation: “the water was drying up”

from the earth

Quote: מֵ⁠עַ֣ל הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “from the ground”

Then Noah removed

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֤סַר נֹ֨חַ֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “So he took off part of” or “made an opening in”

the covering of the ark

Quote: אֶת מִכְסֵ֣ה הַ⁠תֵּבָ֔ה (1)

Alternate translation: “the roof that was covering the ark” or “the roof of the ark”

and looked

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֕רְא (1)

Alternate translation: “and looked out,”

and behold

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּ֥ה (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 11. Alternate translation: “and indeed,”

was drying

Quote: חָֽרְב֖וּ (1)

Alternate translation: “was drying off.”

Genesis 8:14

Then in the second month, on the twenty-seventh day of the month

Quote: וּ⁠בַ⁠חֹ֨דֶשׁ֙ הַ⁠שֵּׁנִ֔י בְּ⁠שִׁבְעָ֧ה וְ⁠עֶשְׂרִ֛ים י֖וֹם לַ⁠חֹ֑דֶשׁ (1)

See how you translated similar time phrases in verses 4, 5, and 13.

the earth

Quote: הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)

Notice that the land/ground was dry here, not the entire earth. Consider again how you translated this phrase in verses 3, 7, 11, 13-14. Alternate translation: “the ground”

was dry

Quote: יָבְשָׁ֖ה (1)

In this context dry means that the ground was dry enough to walk on and live on without getting stuck in mud. Make sure your translation does not imply that it was so dry that nothing would grow on it (like a desert).

Genesis 8:15

Then God said to Noah, saying

Quote: וַ⁠יְדַבֵּ֥ר אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶל נֹ֥חַ לֵ⁠אמֹֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

See how you translated said to Noah in Gen 7:1. Alternate translation: “So God said to Noah,”

Genesis 8:16

Go out of the ark

Quote: צֵ֖א מִן הַ⁠תֵּבָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

Consider whether “come” or “go” is more natural here in your language. Also, some languages have a special term for getting off a boat that fits well here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Come out of the ark” or “Disembark from the ark”

and the wives of your sons with you

Quote: וּ⁠נְשֵֽׁי בָנֶ֖י⁠ךָ אִתָּֽ⁠ךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “and their wives.”

Genesis 8:17

Bring out with you

Quote: הוצא אִתָּ֑⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

Consider whether “bring” or “take” is more natural here in your language. Alternate translation: “Take with you” or “Take out”

every living thing that {is

Quote: כָּל הַ⁠חַיָּ֨ה אֲשֶֽׁר (1)

Alternate translation: “all the living things that are”

with you

Quote: ־אִתְּ⁠ךָ֜ (1)

Alternate translation: “with you in the ark” or “in the ark”

all flesh

Quote: מִ⁠כָּל בָּשָׂ֗ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See how you translated flesh in Gen 7:15-16.

including the birds and the livestock

Quote: בָּ⁠ע֧וֹף וּ⁠בַ⁠בְּהֵמָ֛ה (1)

Alternate translation: “including the birds, domestic animals,”

and every moving creature moving

Quote: וּ⁠בְ⁠כָל הָ⁠רֶ֛מֶשׂ הָ⁠רֹמֵ֥שׂ (1)

In the Hebrew text this phrase is ambiguous. It could mean: (1) “and every other creature/animal that moves/lives”, which seems to fit this context best since it is general and includes all the land animals that were not birds or livestock; or (2) “and every creature/animal that crawls”, which is more specific and refers to animals like lizards, snakes, mice, and other animals that have bodies that are close to the ground.

on the earth

Quote: עַל הָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “on the ground,”

so that they will abound on the earth

Quote: וְ⁠שָֽׁרְצ֣וּ בָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Then they can spread all over the world”

and be fruitful

Quote: וּ⁠פָר֥וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

The rest of verse 17 forms a parallelism with abound on the earth that emphasizes filling the earth again with animals. Make sure your translation does not sound like this refers to separate events. Alternate translation: “yes, they will have many offspring”

and multiply

Quote: וְ⁠רָב֖וּ (1)

See how you translated be fruitful and multiply in Gen 1:22, 28. Alternate translation: “and become very many”

over the earth

Quote: עַל הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “all over the world.” or “throughout the earth.”

Genesis 8:18

Then Noah went out

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֖צֵא נֹ֑חַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

Alternate translation: “Then Noah went out of the ark” or “So Noah disembarked from the ark” or “Then Noah got off the ark”

and his sons and his wife and the wives of his sons with him

Quote: וּ⁠בָנָ֛י⁠ו וְ⁠אִשְׁתּ֥⁠וֹ וּ⁠נְשֵֽׁי בָנָ֖י⁠ו אִתּֽ⁠וֹ (1)

See how you translated this list of Noah’s family members (and similar lists) in Gen 6:18; 7:7, 13; 8:16. Notice that the order of the people in this list varies in the Hebrew text, perhaps depending on who is in focus in each context. Alternate translation: “together with his wife and his sons and their wives.”

Genesis 8:19

Every living thing

Quote: כָּל הַֽ⁠חַיָּ֗ה (1)

Alternate translation: “Every living creature,”

every crawling thing

Quote: כָּל הָ⁠רֶ֨מֶשׂ֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “including every animal that crawls” or “including all the creatures that crawl”

everything

Quote: כֹּ֖ל (1)

Alternate translation: “yes, every creature”

moving on the earth

Quote: רוֹמֵ֣שׂ עַל הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)

This phrase refers here to the land, not the entire planet earth. See how you translated this phrase in verse 17. Alternate translation: “that moves on the ground,”

went out of the ark

Quote: יָצְא֖וּ מִן־הַ⁠תֵּבָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

Consider again how you translated “go/come out” and “went/came out” and “bring/take out” in verses 16-19. Notice that your choices are affected by your perspective: whether the viewpoint is from inside the ark or whether the viewpoint is from outside the ark. Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “also came out of the ark”

by their families

Quote: לְ⁠מִשְׁפְּחֹ֣תֵי⁠הֶ֔ם (1)

Alternate translation: “grouped by their kinds.” or “one family after another.”

Genesis 8:20

Then Noah built an altar

Quote: וַ⁠יִּ֥בֶן נֹ֛חַ מִזְבֵּ֖חַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

An altar was an elevated, often table-shaped structure made out of stones where certain animals and crops were burned as sacrifices to God. Alternate translation: “Then Noah built an altar out of large stones” or “Then Noah made a sacrifice table with large stones”

to Yahweh

Quote: לַֽ⁠יהוָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “dedicated to Yahweh,” or “to worship Yahweh,”

and he took

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקַּ֞ח (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Then he chose”

from every clean animal and from every clean bird

Quote: מִ⁠כֹּ֣ל הַ⁠בְּהֵמָ֣ה הַ⁠טְּהוֹרָ֗ה וּ⁠מִ⁠כֹּל֙ הָ⁠ע֣וֹף הַ⁠טָּהֹ֔ר (1)

In the Bible, a clean animal or bird is one that is acceptable to be sacrificed to God or eaten; it does not refer to how clean the animal or bird was physically. See how you translated this term in Gen 7:2, 8. Alternate translation: “some of every kind of pure animal and one of every kind of clean bird,” or “some of every kind of animal and bird that are acceptable to sacrifice”

and he offered burnt offerings on the altar

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֥עַל עֹלֹ֖ת בַּ⁠מִּזְבֵּֽחַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

When animals were sacrificed, they were killed first, not burned alive. Consider whether or not you need to make that information explicit in your translation. Alternate translation: “and he killed them and offered them as burnt offerings to Yahweh on the altar.” or “and he killed them and burned their bodies on the altar as gifts to Yahweh to honor him.”

Genesis 8:21

And Yahweh smelled the pleasant aroma

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֣רַח יְהוָה֮ אֶת רֵ֣יחַ הַ⁠נִּיחֹחַ֒ (1)

Alternate translation: “Yahweh smelled the sweet smell of the sacrifices,” or “When Yahweh smelled the aroma of the sacrifices, he was pleased,”

and Yahweh said in his heart

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר יְהוָ֜ה אֶל־לִבּ֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Consider whether or not your language has this idiom or a similar idiom that would work well here. Alternate translation: “so he said to himself,”

Never again will I curse the ground

Quote: לֹֽא־אֹ֠סִף לְ⁠קַלֵּ֨ל ע֤וֹד אֶת־הָֽ⁠אֲדָמָה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

Make sure that your translation of curse does not imply the use of magic. Alternate translation: “I will never again curse the earth”

because of mankind

Quote: בַּ⁠עֲב֣וּר הָֽ⁠אָדָ֔ם (1)

Alternate translation: “to punish mankind for their sins,”

though the inclination of mankind’s hearts {is} evil

Quote: כִּ֠י יֵ֣צֶר לֵ֧ב הָ⁠אָדָ֛ם רַ֖ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated inclination in a similar phrase in Gen 6:5. Alternate translation: “even though the desires of their hearts are evil” or “even though everything they desire is evil”

from their youth

Quote: מִ⁠נְּעֻרָ֑י⁠ו (1)

Alternate translation: “from youth onward.” or “from the time they are young”

And never again will I

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא אֹסִ֥ף ע֛וֹד (1)

Alternate translation: “I will never again” or “Nor will I ever again”

strike

Quote: לְ⁠הַכּ֥וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Consider whether your language has this idiom or a similar idiom that fits well here. Alternate translation: “kill”

every living {thing

Quote: אֶת כָּל חַ֖י (1)

Alternate translation: “every living creature” or “all living things”

as I have done

Quote: כַּֽ⁠אֲשֶׁ֥ר עָשִֽׂיתִי (1)

Alternate translation: “as I just did.”

Genesis 8:22

While all of the days of the earth continue

Quote: עֹ֖ד כָּל יְמֵ֣י הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “As long as the earth still lasts,”

seed time

Quote: זֶ֡רַע (1)

Alternate translation: “seed-planting time” or “the time for planting seeds”

and harvest

Quote: וְ֠⁠קָצִיר (1)

Alternate translation: “and harvest time” or “the time for gathering crops”

and cold and heat

Quote: וְ⁠קֹ֨ר וָ⁠חֹ֜ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These terms form a parallelism with summer and winter. If possible, it is best to keep both parts of the parallelism in your translation since each part has a different emphasis. Alternate translation: “cold season and hot season,”

and summer and winter

Quote: וְ⁠קַ֧יִץ וָ⁠חֹ֛רֶף (1)

The seasons of summer and winter may be described differently depending on which part of the world your language area is located in. For example, some translations might use the terms “dry season” and “rainy/wet season,” depending on what best corresponds to summer and winter in that area.

will not cease

Quote: לֹ֥א יִשְׁבֹּֽתוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

It may be more natural to change the order of this sentence and say, “As long as the earth exists, each year there will always be a season/time to plant seeds and a season/time to harvest crops, as well as cold weather and hot weather, winter and summer, and day and night.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “will never stop.” or “will always continue to occur each year.”

Genesis 9

Genesis 9:1

Then God blessed Noah and his sons

Quote: וַ⁠יְבָ֣רֶךְ אֱלֹהִ֔ים אֶת נֹ֖חַ וְ⁠אֶת בָּנָ֑י⁠ו (1)

See how you translated blessed in Gen 1:22, 28. Alternate translation: “Then God showed favor to Noah and his sons” or “Then God caused Noah and his sons to flourish”

and said to them

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֧אמֶר לָ⁠הֶ֛ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

The phrase “blessed … and said” is a Hebrew expression that refers to one event and emphasizes it. It does not refer to two separate events. The words of the blessing are in verses 1-7. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 1:28. Alternate translation: “He said,”

Be fruitful

Quote: פְּר֥וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Alternate translation: “Bear many children” or “You will bear many children”

and multiply

Quote: וּ⁠רְב֖וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

See how you translated “be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth” in Gen 1:28. Alternate translation: “so that you and your descendants will increase greatly in number” or “so that you and your descendants will become very many”

and fill the earth

Quote: וּ⁠מִלְא֥וּ אֶת הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “and fill the earth with people.” or “and inhabit the whole earth.” or “and live all over the world.”

Genesis 9:2

And the fear of you and the dread of you will be on every living thing of the earth

Quote: וּ⁠מוֹרַאֲ⁠כֶ֤ם וְ⁠חִתְּ⁠כֶם֙ יִֽהְיֶ֔ה עַ֚ל כָּל חַיַּ֣ת הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The phrase “the fear … and the dread” repeats the same idea in two different ways to emphasize how afraid the creatures will be. For some languages it may be better to combine the phrase and say “very afraid/terrified”. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Every living thing on the earth will be afraid and terrified of you,” or “All the animals on earth will be very afraid of you,”

including on every bird of

Quote: וְ⁠עַ֖ל כָּל ע֣וֹף (1)

The birds, moving creatures, and fish are all included in the general category of living creatures. Consider again how you translated “birds of the sky” in the book of Genesis; see Gen 1:26, 28, 30; 2:19-20; 6:7; 7:3, 23; 9:2. Alternate translation: “including every bird that flies in the air,” or “including all the birds that fly in the sky”

on everything that moves

Quote: בְּ⁠כֹל֩ אֲשֶׁ֨ר תִּרְמֹ֧שׂ (1)

Alternate translation: “along with every animal that lives on land” or “as well as all animals that live on land,”

and on all the fish of the sea

Quote: וּֽ⁠בְ⁠כָל דְּגֵ֥י הַ⁠יָּ֖ם (1)

Alternate translation: “and all the fish in the sea”

Into your hand they are given

Quote: בְּ⁠יֶדְ⁠כֶ֥ם נִתָּֽנוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase “into your hand” means God was again giving mankind the responsibility to manage and control all the rest of what God had created. Consider whether your language has a similar idiom that would work well here. Alternate translation: “I have put you in charge of them all.”

Genesis 9:3

Every moving creature that lives

Quote: כָּל רֶ֨מֶשׂ֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר הוּא חַ֔י (1)

See how you translated “every moving creature” in Gen 1:26, and see the note about that there. It may be necessary to translate this phrase in different ways in different contexts. Alternate translation: “From now on every kind of living thing that moves” or “From now on every animal that is alive and moves”

will be for you for food

Quote: לָ⁠כֶ֥ם יִהְיֶ֖ה לְ⁠אָכְלָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it is more natural to change the order of this sentence and say, “You may now have/eat any kind of living creature that moves, for food.” or “I now permit you to eat every/any kind of living creature that moves.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “is available for you to eat as food.”

Just as the green plants

Quote: כְּ⁠יֶ֣רֶק עֵ֔שֶׂב (1)

Consider again how you translated green plants in Gen 1:30, and how you translated plants in Gen 1:11-12, 29; 2:5; 3:18; 9:3. Alternate translation: “plants to eat,”

I give you everything

Quote: נָתַ֥תִּי לָ⁠כֶ֖ם אֶת כֹּֽל (1)

Make sure that the way you translate this phrase means that God is now permitting people to eat both plants and animals. Alternate translation: “now I give you everything for food.” or “so now I permit you to eat everything.” or “so now I permit you to eat both plants and animals.”

Genesis 9:4

But

Quote: אַךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions

God is putting a limit on the way that people may eat meat.

you must not eat flesh

Quote: בָּשָׂ֕ר & לֹ֥א תֹאכֵֽלוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “you must never eat animal flesh”

with its life, {that is,} its blood

Quote: בְּ⁠נַפְשׁ֥⁠וֹ דָמ֖⁠וֹ (1)

Since life is in the blood, God did not want people to eat meat that still had its blood in it. Rather he wanted them to drain it out first before they cooked it (also see Deuteronomy 12:16, 23). You could put that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: “that still has its life in it, which is in its blood.” or “with its blood in it, which made it live.” or “that still has its lifeblood in it.”

Genesis 9:5

And surely I will demand your blood for your lives

Quote: וְ⁠אַ֨ךְ אֶת דִּמְ⁠כֶ֤ם לְ⁠נַפְשֹֽׁתֵי⁠כֶם֙ אֶדְרֹ֔שׁ (1)

Alternate translation: “Also, I will definitely require an accounting for your lifeblood.”

From the hand of every living thing

Quote: מִ⁠יַּ֥ד כָּל חַיָּ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

In this verse, the phrase the hand of refers to the animal or the person that is responsible for killing someone. Alternate translation: “From any animal that kills a person”

I will demand it

Quote: אֶדְרְשֶׁ֑⁠נּוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “I will demand its blood” or “I require it to be killed,” or “I demand that it must die,”

and from the hand of mankind

Quote: וּ⁠מִ⁠יַּ֣ד הָֽ⁠אָדָ֗ם (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “and that is also true for human beings.”

from the hand of a man {who kills

Quote: מִ⁠יַּד֙ אִ֣ישׁ (1)

Alternate translation: “If a man kills” or “If anyone kills”

his brother

Quote: אָחִ֔י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

This phrase is used here as a general reference to any human being, not just biological brothers. Alternate translation: “a fellow human being,”

I will demand the life of the man

Quote: אֶדְרֹ֖שׁ אֶת נֶ֥פֶשׁ הָֽ⁠אָדָֽם (1)

Alternate translation: “I require him to be executed” or “I demand that he must die.”

Genesis 9:6

The one shedding

Quote: שֹׁפֵךְ֙ (1)

The first half of verse 6 repeats and summarizes verse 5. Alternate translation: “Yes if anyone”

The one shedding the blood of

Quote: שֹׁפֵךְ֙ דַּ֣ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The first half of verse 6 repeats and summarizes verse 5. The phrase “sheds the blood of” is an idiom that means to deliberately kill someone. Blood is an important concept in this passage and throughout the Bible so, if possible, it is best to keep this term in a translation. If that is not possible, you should put the literal text in a footnote. Alternate translation: “Yes if anyone kills” or “Whoever takes the life of”

a man

Quote: הָֽ⁠אָדָ֔ם (1)

Alternate translation: “a person,” or “another human being,” or “someone,”

by mankind his blood must be shed

Quote: בָּֽ⁠אָדָ֖ם דָּמ֣⁠וֹ יִשָּׁפֵ֑ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it is more natural to put this clause first in this verse and say, “That’s right, you must put to death anyone who murders a human being, because I, God, made human beings in my own image.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “people must execute him,” or “people must put him to death,” or “he must be executed,”

because in the image of God he made mankind

Quote: כִּ֚י בְּ⁠צֶ֣לֶם אֱלֹהִ֔ים עָשָׂ֖ה אֶת הָ⁠אָדָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Make sure it is clear in your translation that God is referring to himself in this clause. See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 1:27. Alternate translation: “because I, God made people in my own image.” or “because I created human beings to be like myself.”

Genesis 9:7

And you

Quote: וְ⁠אַתֶּ֖ם (1)

In the Hebrew text, the pronoun you is emphatic and has an emphatic position in the sentence (before the verb) to introduce a new topic. Consider what is the best way in your language to begin a new paragraph like this. Alternate translation: “And as for you,” or “As for you,”

be fruitful

Quote: פְּר֣וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated be fruitful and multiply in verse 1. Alternate translation: “bear many children”

and multiply

Quote: וּ⁠רְב֑וּ (1)

Alternate translation: “so that you and your descendants become very many.” or “so that you have many descendants.”

Abound on the earth

Quote: שִׁרְצ֥וּ בָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “Live all over the earth”

and multiply

Quote: וּ⁠רְבוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “and increase in numbers”

on it

Quote: בָֽ⁠הּ (1)

Alternate translation: “throughout it.”

Genesis 9:8

Then God said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר אֱלֹהִים֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “Then God continued speaking”

to Noah and to his sons with him, saying

Quote: אֶל נֹ֔חַ וְ⁠אֶל בָּנָ֥י⁠ו אִתּ֖⁠וֹ לֵ⁠אמֹֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

God is still speaking to the same people. This phrase emphasizes what he says next to them. Alternate translation: “to Noah and his sons who were with him, and said,” or “to them,”

Genesis 9:9

And I, behold, I

Quote: וַ⁠אֲנִ֕י הִנְנִ֥⁠י (1)

See how you translated behold in Gen 1:29, 4:14, 6:13, 17. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: “Now listen carefully to me: I”

am establishing

Quote: מֵקִ֛ים (1)

See how you translated “establish my covenant with” in Gen 6:18, and see the note about that there. Alternate translation: “am instituting” or “am setting up”

my covenant with you and with your offspring after you

Quote: אֶת בְּרִיתִ֖⁠י אִתְּ⁠כֶ֑ם וְ⁠אֶֽת זַרְעֲ⁠כֶ֖ם אַֽחֲרֵי⁠כֶֽם (1)

Notice that the pronouns you and your are plural throughout verses 2-15, since God is speaking to Noah and his sons. Alternate translation: “my special agreement with you and your descendants who come after you,” or “my covenant between me and you and your offspring”

Genesis 9:10

and with

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֨ת (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to break up this long sentence and begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “along with” or “The covenant is also with”

and with every living thing of the earth

Quote: וּֽ⁠בְ⁠כָל חַיַּ֥ת הָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “and all the other living things on the earth” or “and all the wild animals”

from all that came out of the ark

Quote: מִ⁠כֹּל֙ יֹצְאֵ֣י הַ⁠תֵּבָ֔ה (1)

The words “from … to …” are used to emphasize that all the animals are included in God’s covenant. Consider what is the best way to express that in your language. Alternate translation: “That includes all those that went out of the ark”

to every living thing

Quote: לְ⁠כֹ֖ל חַיַּ֥ת (1)

Alternate translation: “and all the living things” or “and all the animals”

of the earth

Quote: הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “that live on the earth.”

Genesis 9:11

And I am establishing my covenant with you

Quote: וַ⁠הֲקִמֹתִ֤י אֶת בְּרִיתִ⁠י֙ אִתְּ⁠כֶ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

See how you translated my covenant and “establish” in verse 9. Alternate translation: “The covenant that I am making with you is that”

that never again … all flesh

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא & כָּל בָּשָׂ֛ר ע֖וֹד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The phrase all flesh refers here to all people and animals. Alternate translation: “never again will all life” or “never again will all living creatures”

will … be cut off

Quote: יִכָּרֵ֧ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

Alternate translation: “be killed by” or “be wiped out by”

by the waters of a flood

Quote: מִ⁠מֵּ֣י הַ⁠מַּבּ֑וּל (1)

See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 7:10. Alternate translation: “water from a flood,”

and never again will there be a flood

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא יִהְיֶ֥ה ע֛וֹד מַבּ֖וּל (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “I promise that I will never again use a flood”

to destroy

Quote: לְ⁠שַׁחֵ֥ת (1)

See how you translated “destroying” in Gen 6:13. Alternate translation: “that destroys”

the earth

Quote: הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

This phrase refers here to everything that lives on the earth. Alternate translation: “life on the earth.” or “all living creatures on the earth.”

Genesis 9:12

Then God said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

God is still talking to the same people, but a quote margin (Then God said) is added here to emphasize the new topic (the sign of the covenant). For some languages it is more natural to leave this quote margin implied and just have a paragraph break. See what you did for a similar case in verse 8. Alternate translation: “Then God also said to them,” or “Then God added” or “Then God continued talking to Noah and his sons,”

This {is} the sign of the covenant that I am making

Quote: זֹ֤את אֽוֹת הַ⁠בְּרִית֙ אֲשֶׁר אֲנִ֣י נֹתֵ֗ן (1)

Alternate translation: “This is the sign which shows that I promise to always keep the covenant that I am making” or “This is how I will remind everyone that I have made this covenant”

for generations forever

Quote: לְ⁠דֹרֹ֖ת עוֹלָֽם (1)

Alternate translation: “for all future generations:” or “and with all generations to come:” or “as well as with all the people and creatures that will ever live:”

Genesis 9:13

I have set my rainbow

Quote: אֶת קַשְׁתִּ֕⁠י נָתַ֖תִּי (1)

Alternate translation: “I have put my rainbow” or “I am placing my rainbow”

and it will be the sign of

Quote: וְ⁠הָֽיְתָה֙ לְ⁠א֣וֹת (1)

See how you translated the sign of the covenant in verse 12. Alternate translation: “where it will show everyone” or “to show everyone” or “and it will serve as the sign which shows”

the covenant between me and

Quote: בְּרִ֔ית בֵּינִ֖⁠י וּ⁠בֵ֥ין (1)

Alternate translation: “that I have made my covenant with” or “that I pledge to always keep my covenant with”

the earth

Quote: הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

This phrase refers here to mankind and all the animals. See how you translated the same phrase in verse 11. Alternate translation: “every living thing on the earth.”

Genesis 9:14

And it will be when I bring clouds

Quote: וְ⁠הָיָ֕ה בְּ⁠עַֽנְנִ֥⁠י עָנָ֖ן (1)

Alternate translation: “So it will happen that whenever I bring clouds together” or “So whenever I cause clouds to appear”

over the earth

Quote: עַל הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “in the sky over the earth”

and the rainbow is seen in the clouds

Quote: וְ⁠נִרְאֲתָ֥ה הַ⁠קֶּ֖שֶׁת בֶּ⁠עָנָֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

Consider whether it is better in your language to use a passive or active verb here. Alternate translation: “and a rainbow forms among the clouds,” or “and you see a rainbow among the clouds,”

Genesis 9:15

then I will remember my covenant

Quote: וְ⁠זָכַרְתִּ֣י אֶת בְּרִיתִ֗⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated remember in Gen 8:1. It may need to be translated differently in different contexts. Alternate translation: “then I will remember and keep my covenant” or “then I will not forget to keep my treaty”

that {is} between me and you

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֤ר בֵּינִ⁠י֙ וּ⁠בֵ֣ינֵי⁠כֶ֔ם (1)

Alternate translation: “that I have made between me and you” or “that I have made with you”

and every living creature of all flesh

Quote: וּ⁠בֵ֛ין כָּל נֶ֥פֶשׁ חַיָּ֖ה בְּ⁠כָל בָּשָׂ֑ר (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “and all living creatures of every kind,” or “and all the animals, including all the different kinds,” or (2) “and all other living creatures, including all people and animals,”

and never again will waters become a flood to destroy

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא יִֽהְיֶ֨ה ע֤וֹד הַ⁠מַּ֨יִם֙ לְ⁠מַבּ֔וּל לְ⁠שַׁחֵ֖ת (1)

Make sure it is clear in your translation that this last clause in verse 15 is what God promised in his covenant. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “that never again will there be a flood that destroys” or “I vow that never again will I use a flood to destroy”

all flesh

Quote: כָּל־בָּשָֽׂר (1)

Alternate translation: “all life.” or “all people and animals.”

Genesis 9:16

So the rainbow will be

Quote: וְ⁠הָיְתָ֥ה הַ⁠קֶּ֖שֶׁת (1)

In verse 16, God repeats and emphasizes what he said in verses 12-15. Alternate translation: “So whenever a rainbow forms” or “That is how it will be: Whenever there is a rainbow”

in the clouds

Quote: בֶּֽ⁠עָנָ֑ן (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verses 13 and 14. Alternate translation: “among the clouds,”

and I will see it

Quote: וּ⁠רְאִיתִ֗י⁠הָ (1)

Alternate translation: “I will look at it”

to remember

Quote: לִ⁠זְכֹּר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated remember in verse 15. Alternate translation: “and fulfill” or “and not forget to keep”

the everlasting covenant

Quote: בְּרִ֣ית עוֹלָ֔ם (1)

Alternate translation: “my permanent covenant” or “my covenant that lasts forever” or “my covenant that never ends”

between God and

Quote: בֵּ֣ין אֱלֹהִ֔ים וּ⁠בֵין֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Make sure it is clear in your translation that God is referring to himself here. Alternate translation: “between me and” or “which I have made with”

every living creature, with all flesh

Quote: כָּל נֶ֣פֶשׁ חַיָּ֔ה בְּ⁠כָל בָּשָׂ֖ר (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 15 and how you translated every living creature in verses 10 and 12. Alternate translation: “all living beings of every kind”

that {is} on the earth

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר עַל הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “that are on the earth.” or “that live in the world.”

Genesis 9:17

Then God said to Noah

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֥אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶל נֹ֑חַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “Finally, God said to Noah,” or “Then God finished by saying to Noah,”

the sign of the covenant that I have established

Quote: אֽוֹת הַ⁠בְּרִית֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר הֲקִמֹ֔תִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

See how you translated a similar clause in verse 12. In that verse God is explaining the rainbow for the first time, whereas here in verse 17, he is pointing back to what he just said about the rainbow in order to emphasize its importance. Also, consider again how you translated covenant in verses 9, 11-13, 15-17. Alternate translation: “the sign which shows that I promise to always keep the covenant that I am making” or “what I will uses to show everyone that I have made this treaty”

all flesh that {is} on the earth

Quote: כָּל בָּשָׂ֖ר אֲשֶׁ֥ר עַל הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)

Consider again how you translated all flesh when it includes people and animals. See Gen 6:12-13, 17; 7:21; 9:11, 15-17. It may be necessary to translate this phrase in different ways in different contexts. Alternate translation: “all living creatures” or “all the people and creatures that are on the earth.”

Genesis 9:18

the ark

Quote: הַ⁠תֵּבָ֔ה (1)

Be consistent here with how you translated “ark/boat” in chapters 6-8, and see the note about this at Gen 6:14. Alternate translation: “who went out from the ark after the flood” or “who disembarked from …” or “who got off …”

And … were Shem and Ham and Japheth

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽהְי֣וּ & שֵׁ֖ם וְ⁠חָ֣ם וָ⁠יָ֑פֶת (1)

Consider what is the best way to list names in your language.

and Ham, he

Quote: וְ⁠חָ֕ם ה֖וּא (1)

The pronoun he is emphatic here, emphasizing that Ham was the father of Canaan, who is probably mentioned here because he was well known as the ancestor of the Canaanites and the one whom the land/region of Canaan was named after. Alternate translation: “Ham was the one who”

was} the father of Canaan

Quote: אֲבִ֥י כְנָֽעַן (1)

Alternate translation: “fathered Canaan.”

Genesis 9:20

Now Noah, a man of the soil, began and planted

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֥חֶל נֹ֖חַ אִ֣ישׁ הָֽ⁠אֲדָמָ֑ה וַ⁠יִּטַּ֖ע (1)

Consider what is the best way in your language to introduce or begin a new episode here. The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “who was a farmer, began/started farming and planted” or “who was a farmer, was the first man/person to plant” or (2) “began to be a farmer and planted” or “became a farmer and planted” Alternate translation: “Now later on, Noah,”

a vineyard

Quote: כָּֽרֶם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

It is implied that Noah made wine from the grapes (verse 21). If necessary, you could make that explicit here. Also, if grapes are not known in your language area, you could say “vines/plants with a fruit called grapes”, or you could put in a footnote information about grapes, including how they are squeezed and how the juice is fermented to make wine. Alternate translation: “some grapevines and made wine from the grapes.” or “a field with grapevines. And he made wine from the grapes.”

Genesis 9:21

Then he drank some of the wine

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֥שְׁתְּ מִן הַ⁠יַּ֖יִן (1)

Alternate translation: “One day he drank a lot of the wine,”

and he became drunk, and he uncovered himself

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁכָּ֑ר וַ⁠יִּתְגַּ֖ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

It is implied from verse 24 that Noah had fallen asleep. Alternate translation: “so that he became so intoxicated that he fell asleep uncovered”

inside his tent

Quote: בְּ⁠ת֥וֹךְ אָהֳלֹֽ⁠ה (1)

See how you translated tent in Gen 4:20.

Genesis 9:22

the nakedness of his father

Quote: אֵ֖ת עֶרְוַ֣ת אָבִ֑י⁠ו (1)

Alternate translation: “that his father was uncovered,”

and he told his two brothers outside

Quote: וַ⁠יַּגֵּ֥ד לִ⁠שְׁנֵֽי אֶחָ֖י⁠ו בַּ⁠חֽוּץ (1)

Alternate translation: “and he went out and told his two brothers that their father was drunk and naked.”

Genesis 9:23

But Shem and Japheth took

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקַּח֩ שֵׁ֨ם וָ⁠יֶ֜פֶת (1)

Alternate translation: “Then Shem and Japheth took”

a garment

Quote: אֶת הַ⁠שִּׂמְלָ֗ה (1)

This garment would have probably been fairly large, big enough to cover Noah’s body. Alternate translation: “a cloak,”

and laid it across the shoulders of the two of them

Quote: וַ⁠יָּשִׂ֨ימוּ֙ עַל שְׁכֶ֣ם שְׁנֵי⁠הֶ֔ם (1)

Alternate translation: “put it between them over their shoulders”

and walked backward

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּֽלְכוּ֙ אֲחֹ֣רַנִּ֔ית (1)

Alternate translation: “and went backward into the tent”

and covered the nakedness of their father

Quote: וַ⁠יְכַסּ֕וּ אֵ֖ת עֶרְוַ֣ת אֲבִי⁠הֶ֑ם (1)

Alternate translation: “and used it to cover their naked father.”

And their faces were turned away

Quote: וּ⁠פְנֵי⁠הֶם֙ אֲחֹ֣רַנִּ֔ית (1)

Alternate translation: “As they did that, they kept their eyes looking away from him,” or “As they did that, they looked away from him,”

so that they did not see the nakedness of their father

Quote: וְ⁠עֶרְוַ֥ת אֲבִי⁠הֶ֖ם לֹ֥א רָאֽוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider whether it is better here in your language to refer to Noah with a noun phrase or a pronoun. Alternate translation: “so that they did not see his nakedness.” or “so that they did not see him naked.”

Genesis 9:24

Then Noah woke up

Quote: וַ⁠יִּ֥יקֶץ נֹ֖חַ (1)

Alternate translation: “Later he woke up”

from his wine

Quote: מִ⁠יֵּינ֑⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “sober from the effects of the wine,” or “sober,”

and he learned

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֕דַע (1)

The text does not say how Noah found out about this, so it is best to not be too specific about that here in your translation. Alternate translation: “and he heard about”

what his youngest son had done to him

Quote: אֵ֛ת אֲשֶׁר עָ֥שָׂה ל֖⁠וֹ בְּנ֥⁠וֹ הַ⁠קָּטָֽן (1)

Alternate translation: “that his youngest son Ham had disrespected him,”

Genesis 9:25

and he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֖אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “So he exclaimed about Ham,”

Cursed be

Quote: אָר֣וּר (1)

Alternate translation: “I hereby ask God to curse” or “May God curse”

Canaan

Quote: כְּנָ֑עַן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

In verses 25-27, Canaan probably represents Ham and all of Ham’s descendants (the Canaanites), who will serve Shem and Japheth and all their descendants. You could put that information in a footnote.

He will be

Quote: יִֽהְיֶ֥ה (1)

Alternate translation: “I proclaim that he will be”

a slave of slaves

Quote: עֶ֥בֶד עֲבָדִ֖ים (1)

The Hebrew word here can mean either slave or “servant”. Slaves in the Old Testament were usually treated well and were not much different than servants, sometimes even becoming like members of their owner’s family. But they were of lower status than their masters, which is part of how Ham’s family is being cursed. Alternate translation: “the lowest slave”

for his brothers

Quote: לְ⁠אֶחָֽי⁠ו (1)

Verses 26 and 27 show that his brothers probably refers here to Shem and Japheth (who were Canaan’s uncles) and their descendants.

Genesis 9:26

Then he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֕אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Alternate translation: “Then he also said,” or “He also said,”

Praised be Yahweh

Quote: בָּר֥וּךְ יְהֹוָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

Although many English translations have “Blessed be” here instead of “Praised be,” the word used in the Hebrew text means “praise” when people are acting towards God (as here), and it means “bless” when God is acting towards people (as in Gen 1:28; 5:2; 9:1). Alternate translation: “I praise Yahweh,”

the God of Shem

Quote: אֱלֹ֣הֵי שֵׁ֑ם (1)

Alternate translation: “who is the God whom Shem worships”

And may Canaan be

Quote: וִ⁠יהִ֥י כְנַ֖עַן (1)

Alternate translation: “May he cause Canaan to be” or “May he make Canaan” or “I ask him to make Canaan”

a slave for him

Quote: עֶ֥בֶד לָֽ⁠מוֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “a servant for him”

Genesis 9:27

May God enlarge Japheth

Quote: יַ֤פְתְּ אֱלֹהִים֙ לְ⁠יֶ֔פֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

In this context, Japheth refers to the territory or land where he lived. Alternate translation: “… give Japheth more land,”

and may he live

Quote: וְ⁠יִשְׁכֹּ֖ן (1)

Alternate translation: “and enable him and his family to live”

in the tents of Shem

Quote: בְּ⁠אָֽהֳלֵי שֵׁ֑ם (1)

Alternate translation: “together in harmony with Shem and his family” or “peacefully among Shem and his family”

And may Canaan be

Quote: וִ⁠יהִ֥י כְנַ֖עַן (1)

See how you translated a similar sentence in verse 26. Alternate translation: “I also ask God to make Canaan” or “Canaan will also be”

a slave for him

Quote: עֶ֥בֶד לָֽ⁠מוֹ (1)

Compare how you translated slave or “servant” in verses 25-27. Alternate translation: “a servant for him”

Genesis 9:28

after the flood

Quote: אַחַ֣ר הַ⁠מַּבּ֑וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Notice that this phrase refers to when the flood began, when Noah was 600 years old (Gen 7:6), not when it ended a year later, when he was 601 years old (8:13), since he was 950 when he died (verse 29), not 951. Alternate translation: “After the time that the flood began,” or “From the beginning of the flood,”

And … Noah lived 350 years

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִי נֹ֖חַ & שְׁלֹ֤שׁ מֵאוֹת֙ שָׁנָ֔ה וַֽ⁠חֲמִשִּׁ֖ים שָׁנָֽה (1)

Alternate translation: “Noah lived 350 more years.”

Genesis 9:29

So all the days of Noah were

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽהְיוּ֙ כָּל יְמֵי נֹ֔חַ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated Gen 5:31, which is similar to 9:29. Alternate translation: “so that Noah lived a total of 950 years,” or “So all together Noah lived 950 years,”

and he died

Quote: וַ⁠יָּמֹֽת (1)

Alternate translation: “and then he died.”

Genesis 10

Genesis 10:1

Now these {are} the generations of

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֨לֶּה֙ תּוֹלְדֹ֣ת (1)

This sentence begins a new section. Alternate translation: “Here is the list of the names of”

the sons of Noah: Shem, Ham, and Japheth

Quote: בְּנֵי נֹ֔חַ שֵׁ֖ם חָ֣ם וָ⁠יָ֑פֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Give special attention to the best way in your language to spell all the names in this chapter.

and sons were born to them

Quote: וַ⁠יִּוָּלְד֥וּ לָ⁠הֶ֛ם בָּנִ֖ים (1)

The following record includes the names of Noah’s sons and grandsons and their descendants (including some of the people groups who came from them). Alternate translation: “and their sons and other descendants who were born” or “and the sons they had”

after the flood

Quote: אַחַ֥ר הַ⁠מַּבּֽוּל (1)

Alternate translation: “after the flood was gone.”

Genesis 10:2

The sons of Japheth {were

Quote: בְּנֵ֣י יֶ֔פֶת (1)

Throughout this chapter, many translations have a colon (:) instead of were. Do what is best in your language.

Gomer and Magog and Madai and Javan and Tubal and Meshech and Tiras

Quote: גֹּ֣מֶר וּ⁠מָג֔וֹג וּ⁠מָדַ֖י וְ⁠יָוָ֣ן וְ⁠תֻבָ֑ל וּ⁠מֶ֖שֶׁךְ וְ⁠תִירָֽס (1)

Translate the lists of names in this chapter in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Gomer, Magog, Madai, Javan, Jubal, Meshech, and Tiras.”

Genesis 10:3

Ashkenaz and Riphath and Togarmah

Quote: אַשְׁכֲּנַ֥ז וְ⁠רִיפַ֖ת וְ⁠תֹגַרְמָֽה (1)

Alternate translation: “named Ashkenaz, Riphath, and Togarmah.”

Genesis 10:4

And the sons of Javan {were

Quote: וּ⁠בְנֵ֥י יָוָ֖ן (1)

Compare how you translated a similar clause in verses 2 and 3.

Elishah and Tarshish

Quote: אֱלִישָׁ֣ה וְ⁠תַרְשִׁ֑ישׁ (1)

These are the names of Javan’s sons, but the next two names are the names of people groups that descended from him. Alternate translation: “named Elishah and Tarshish, and he was the ancestor of”

the Kittim and the Dodanim

Quote: כִּתִּ֖ים וְ⁠דֹדָנִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Most translation teams transliterate people group names in the Bible, but handle the suffix endings in different ways. For example, you could: (1) transliterate the Hebrew plural suffix “-im”; or (2) use a suffix that your language has for names of people groups (such as “-ites” in English); or (3) translate “-im” as “people” or “people/ethnic group.” Try to be consistent in how you handle people group names throughout this chapter and the rest of the book of Genesis. Alternate translation: “the Kitt people group and the Dodan people group.”

Genesis 10:5

From those

Quote: מֵ֠⁠אֵלֶּה (1)

This phrase probably refers to Japheth’s descendants (verses 2-4), especially since the descendants of his brothers Ham (verse 20) and Shem (verse 31) are summarized in a similar way.

the coastland peoples spread out

Quote: נִפְרְד֞וּ אִיֵּ֤י הַ⁠גּוֹיִם֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “came the people groups who lived in regions beside the Mediterranean Sea. They moved to different places and settled”

into their lands

Quote: בְּ⁠אַרְצֹתָ֔⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

Alternate translation: “in their own regions,”

each with its own language

Quote: אִ֖ישׁ לִ⁠לְשֹׁנ֑⁠וֹ (1)

Consider whether it is more natural in your language to break up this long sentence and start a new sentence here (or later in this verse). Alternate translation: “They all spoke their own languages,”

according to their clans

Quote: לְ⁠מִשְׁפְּחֹתָ֖⁠ם (1)

The word “clan” refers to a group of families who are descended from a common ancestor. Alternate translation: “and each of them lived in their own extended families,” or “They each had their own family groups,”

in their nations

Quote: בְּ⁠גוֹיֵ⁠הֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

The word nations refers here to people groups, not countries. Also, for some languages it may be clearer to change the order of the phrases in this verse and say, “Japheth’s descendants spread out and settled near/by the Mediterranean Sea. They all formed their own family groups, which grew/multiplied and became their own people groups that spoke their own languages and lived in their own territories/regions.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “and they formed their own people groups.” or “which grew and became their own distinct ethnic groups.”

Genesis 10:8

Cush also fathered Nimrod

Quote: וְ⁠כ֖וּשׁ יָלַ֣ד אֶת נִמְרֹ֑ד (1)

See how you translated fathered in Gen 6:10, and how you translated a phrase in 10:1 (“were born to”) that has a similar meaning. Alternate translation: “Cush also fathered a son named Nimrod,”

who began to be

Quote: ה֣וּא הֵחֵ֔ל לִֽ⁠הְי֥וֹת (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “who was the first person/man/one to be” or (2) “who became”

mighty

Quote: גִּבֹּ֖ר (1)

There were other mighty men before Nimrod, but apparently he was the first one to have a kingdom (verse 10). Alternate translation: “a powerful warrior” or “a powerful king”

on the earth

Quote: בָּ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be more natural to put this phrase earlier and say, “who was the first person/man on earth to be/become a powerful ruler/warrior.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “in the world.”

Genesis 10:9

He was a mighty hunter

Quote: הֽוּא הָיָ֥ה גִבֹּֽר צַ֖יִד (1)

Alternate translation: “Nimrod was also a excellent hunter”

before Yahweh

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “whom Yahweh helped.” or “because Yahweh helped him.”

it is said

Quote: יֵֽאָמַ֔ר (1)

This phrase indicates that what follows was a well-known saying that was used by people to praise or compliment other great men by comparing them to Nimrod. Alternate translation: “we have the saying about other great men:”

Like Nimrod

Quote: כְּ⁠נִמְרֹ֛ד (1)

Alternate translation: “So and so is like Nimrod,”

He was a mighty hunter

Quote: הֽוּא־הָיָ֥ה גִבֹּֽר צַ֖יִד (1)

Alternate translation: “Nimrod was also a excellent hunter”

before Yahweh

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)

Be consistent here with how you translated this phrase earlier in verse 9. Alternate translation: “whom Yahweh helped.” or “because Yahweh helped him.”

Genesis 10:10

And the beginning of his kingdom was

Quote: וַ⁠תְּהִ֨י רֵאשִׁ֤ית מַמְלַכְתּ⁠וֹ֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “He started ruling as king over” or “The first cities that Nimrod ruled as king were”

in the land of Shinar

Quote: בְּ⁠אֶ֖רֶץ שִׁנְעָֽר (1)

Shinar is another name for the land/country of Babylonia. You could put that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: “which were all located in the land called Shinar.”

Genesis 10:11

From that land

Quote: מִן הָ⁠אָ֥רֶץ הַ⁠הִ֖וא (1)

Alternate translation: “From that region” or “From the land of Shinar”

he went to Asshur

Quote: יָצָ֣א אַשּׁ֑וּר (1)

See how you translated “the land/region of/called Asshur/Assyria” in Gen 2:14. Alternate translation: “he moved to the land called Asshur”

and he built

Quote: וַ⁠יִּ֨בֶן֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “and there he built”

Genesis 10:12

and Resen, between Nineveh and Calah, which {is} the great city

Quote: וְֽ⁠אֶת רֶ֔סֶן בֵּ֥ין נִֽינְוֵ֖ה וּ⁠בֵ֣ין כָּ֑לַח הִ֖וא הָ⁠עִ֥יר הַ⁠גְּדֹלָֽה (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “and Resen, which is located between the cities of Nineveh and the great city of Calah.” or (2) “and Resen, which is the great city located between the cities of Nineveh and Calah.”

Genesis 10:13

And Mizraim fathered

Quote: וּ⁠מִצְרַ֡יִם יָלַ֞ד (1)

Alternate translation: “Mizraim was the father of”

the Ludim and the Anamim and the Lehabim and the Naphtuhim

Quote: אֶת לוּדִ֧ים וְ⁠אֶת עֲנָמִ֛ים וְ⁠אֶת לְהָבִ֖ים וְ⁠אֶת נַפְתֻּחִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Throughout verses 13-18, translate the names of people groups in a way that is clear and natural in your language. See what you did in verse 4. Also consider what is the best way in your language to list the names in these verses. Some languages use a conjunction (like and) between names, while other languages only use a conjunction before the last name in the list, with commas between the other names.

Genesis 10:14

and the Pathrusim and the Casluhim (whom the Philistim came from) and the Caphtorim

Quote: וְֽ⁠אֶת פַּתְרֻסִ֞ים וְ⁠אֶת כַּסְלֻחִ֗ים אֲשֶׁ֨ר יָצְא֥וּ מִ⁠שָּׁ֛ם פְּלִשְׁתִּ֖ים וְ⁠אֶת כַּפְתֹּרִֽים (1)

Alternate translation: “Pathrusites, Casluhites (whom the Philistines came from), and Caphtorites.” or “Pathrusites, Casluhites, and Caphtorites. The Philistines came from the Casluhites.”

Genesis 10:15

And Canaan fathered

Quote: וּ⁠כְנַ֗עַן יָלַ֛ד (1)

See how you translated fathered in verses 8 and 13.

then Heth

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת חֵֽת (1)

Canaan’s son Heth was the ancestor of the Hittites, so some translations use “Hittites” here instead and say, “He was also the ancestor of the Hittites,” Alternate translation: “then he had a son named Heth,”

Genesis 10:16

and the Jebusites and the Amorites and the Girgashites

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת הַ⁠יְבוּסִי֙ וְ⁠אֶת הָ֣⁠אֱמֹרִ֔י וְ⁠אֵ֖ת הַ⁠גִּרְגָּשִֽׁי (1)

In verses 16-18, the people group names are singular collective nouns in Hebrew (in contrast to the people group names in verses 4, 13-14 that are plural nouns). Most English versions translate these names with a plural “-ites” suffix so that it is clear that these names refer to more than one person. Alternate translation: “and Canaan was also the ancestor of the Jebusites, Amorites, Girgashites,”

Genesis 10:18

And afterward

Quote: וְ⁠אַחַ֣ר (1)

Alternate translation: “As time went by,”

scattered

Quote: נָפֹ֔צוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “moved to different places,”

Genesis 10:19

so the border{s} of the Canaanites were

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִ֞י גְּב֤וּל הַֽ⁠כְּנַעֲנִי֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “and eventually the borders of their land extended” or “so that eventually the land where they lived extended”

from Sidon

Quote: מִ⁠צִּידֹ֔ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Some languages have an affix or a word (that means “city”) that must be used every time the name of a city is mentioned or the first time a particular city is mentioned in a paragraph or section. Do what is natural in your language here and elsewhere throughout the Bible. Alternate translation: “from Sidon City in the north,”

then} you go toward Gerar as far as Gaza

Quote: בֹּאֲ⁠כָ֥ה גְרָ֖רָ⁠ה עַד עַזָּ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The Canaanites’ border reached Gaza, but did not extend down to Gerar, which was farther south. Alternate translation: “all the way down toward the city of Gerar to the city of Gaza,” or “down to Gaza City, which is on the road to Gerar City,”

as far as Lasha

Quote: עַד לָֽשַׁע (1)

Alternate translation: “until you reach Lasha City.”

Genesis 10:20

Those {are

Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה (1)

The word Those refers back to the people listed in verses 6-19. Also, many translations that use “were” (and other past tense verbs) in verses 2-19 and 21-30 use are here (and in verses 31 and 32). Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Those are the names of” or “Those men are”

the sons of Ham

Quote: בְנֵי חָ֔ם (1)

Alternate translation: “the descendants of Ham”

according to their clans

Quote: לְ⁠מִשְׁפְּחֹתָ֖⁠ם (1)

See how you translated clans in verse 5. Alternate translation: “according to their family groups,” or “and each one had his own clan” or “and their extended families,”

according to their languages, in their lands, in their nations

Quote: לִ⁠לְשֹֽׁנֹתָ֑⁠ם בְּ⁠אַרְצֹתָ֖⁠ם בְּ⁠גוֹיֵ⁠הֶֽם (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated verse 5, which has some of the same phrases as verse 20. Alternate translation: “Each family spoke its own language and lived in its own territory and eventually became its own people group.” or “Each family multiplied and established its own ethnic group that had its own language and lived in its own region.”

Genesis 10:21

And sons were also born to Shem

Quote: וּ⁠לְ⁠שֵׁ֥ם יֻלַּ֖ד גַּם (1)

In the Hebrew text, to Shem comes first in this sentence after And, to emphasize Shem. Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Shem also fathered some sons”

and the brother of Japheth the elder

Quote: אֲחִ֖י יֶ֥פֶת הַ⁠גָּדֽוֹל (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “and his/Shem’s older brother was Japheth.” (2) “and he/Shem was Japheth’s older/oldest brother.”

Genesis 10:22

Elam and Asshur and Arpachshad and Lud and Aram

Quote: עֵילָ֣ם וְ⁠אַשּׁ֑וּר וְ⁠אַרְפַּכְשַׁ֖ד וְ⁠ל֥וּד וַֽ⁠אֲרָֽם (1)

The name Arpachshad is spelled as “Arphaxad” in many translations. Also, see how you spelled Lud in verse 13 (who is a different person with the same name). Be consistent with how you spell each name throughout the Bible. Alternate translation: “Elam, Asshur, Arpachshad, Lud and Aram.”

Genesis 10:23

Uz and Hul and Gether and Mash

Quote: ע֥וּץ וְ⁠ח֖וּל וְ⁠גֶ֥תֶר וָ⁠מַֽשׁ (1)

The same person who is called Mash here, is referred to as “Meshech/Meshek” in 1 Chronicles 1:17. To prevent confusion, some translations use “Meshech/Meshek” here too, or they put that name in a footnote.

Genesis 10:24

And Arpachshad fathered Shelah

Quote: וְ⁠אַרְפַּכְשַׁ֖ד יָלַ֣ד אֶת שָׁ֑לַח (1)

Be consistent here with how you spelled “Arpachshad/Arphaxad” in verse 22. Alternate translation: “Arphaxad had a son named Shelah,”

then Shelah fathered Eber

Quote: וְ⁠שֶׁ֖לַח יָלַ֥ד אֶת עֵֽבֶר (1)

Alternate translation: “and Shelah had a son named Eber.”

Genesis 10:25

Then two sons were born to Eber

Quote: וּ⁠לְ⁠עֵ֥בֶר יֻלַּ֖ד שְׁנֵ֣י בָנִ֑ים (1)

Alternate translation: “Then Eber fathered two sons.”

The name of the one {was

Quote: שֵׁ֣ם הָֽ⁠אֶחָ֞ד (1)

Alternate translation: “The name of the first son was” or “The first son was named”

Peleg

Quote: פֶּ֗לֶג (1)

You can put the meaning of Peleg’s name in the text or in a footnote, so that it is clear why he was given his name. See what you did for a similar case (Noah’s name) in Gen 5:29.

the earth was divided

Quote: נִפְלְגָ֣ה הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

This phrase refers to the people on the earth and implies that they scattered and lived all over the earth (as specified in Gen 11:8). Alternate translation: “the people on the earth separated into separate groups and scattered everywhere.”

And the name of his brother {was} Joktan

Quote: וְ⁠שֵׁ֥ם אָחִ֖י⁠ו יָקְטָֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Make sure it is clear in your translation who is being referred to in this sentence, especially after reading the previous two sentences.

Genesis 10:26

And Joktan fathered

Quote: וְ⁠יָקְטָ֣ן יָלַ֔ד (1)

Notice that the list of Joktan’s sons continues through verse 29. Alternate translation: “Joktan fathered sons named” or “Joktan had the following sons:”

Genesis 10:29

and Ophir and Havilah and Jobab

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת אוֹפִ֥ר וְ⁠אֶת חֲוִילָ֖ה וְ⁠אֶת יוֹבָ֑ב (1)

Consider again how you translated lists of names throughout chapter 10.

All those {were

Quote: כָּל אֵ֖לֶּה (1)

Alternate translation: “All those were the names of” or “All those men were”

Genesis 10:30

And their dwelling was

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִ֥י מוֹשָׁבָ֖⁠ם (1)

Alternate translation: “Their dwelling place” or “Their region” or “The area where they and their descendants lived”

And … was from Mesha

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִ֥י & מִ⁠מֵּשָׁ֑א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated a similar sentence in verse 19. Alternate translation: “extended from the city of Mesha in the west,”

then} you go to Sephar

Quote: בֹּאֲ⁠כָ֥ה סְפָ֖רָ⁠ה (1)

Alternate translation: “as far as”

to Sephar

Quote: סְפָ֖רָ⁠ה (1)

Sephar might refer to a city, a mountain, or a region (that was named after the city or mountain). Alternate translation: “the town of Sephar, which is in”

the mountain{s} of the east

Quote: הַ֥ר הַ⁠קֶּֽדֶם (1)

The word mountains is ambiguous in the Hebrew text. It can be: (1) a collective noun that refers to mountains or hill country near the town of Sephar; or (2) a singular noun that refers to a specific mountain that was called Sephar. Alternate translation: “the mountain range that is in the east.” or “the eastern hill country.”

Genesis 10:31

Those {are

Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה (1)

The word Those refers here to the people listed in verses 21-30. See how you translated verse 20, which is almost exactly the same as verse 31. Alternate translation: “Those are the names of” or “Those men are”

the sons of Shem

Quote: בְנֵי שֵׁ֔ם (1)

Alternate translation: “the descendants of Shem”

according to their clans

Quote: לְ⁠מִשְׁפְּחֹתָ֖⁠ם (1)

See how you translated clans in verses 5 and 20. Alternate translation: “and each one had his own clan”

according to their languages, in their lands, according to their nations

Quote: לִ⁠לְשֹׁנֹתָ֑⁠ם בְּ⁠אַרְצֹתָ֖⁠ם לְ⁠גוֹיֵ⁠הֶֽם (1)

Alternate translation: “Each family spoke its own language and lived in its own territory, and eventually became its own people group.” or “Each family multiplied and established its own ethnic group that had its own language and lived in its own territory.”

Genesis 10:32

Those {are} the clans of the sons of Noah

Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה מִשְׁפְּחֹ֧ת בְּנֵי נֹ֛חַ (1)

The word Those refers here to everyone who is listed in verses 2-31. Consider again how you translated clans in verses 5, 18, 29, 31-32.

according to their generations, in their nations

Quote: לְ⁠תוֹלְדֹתָ֖⁠ם בְּ⁠גוֹיֵ⁠הֶ֑ם (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, compare how you translated similar phrases in verses 5, 20, and 31. Alternate translation: “Each clan had its own genealogy and became its own ethnic group.”

And from those the nations spread out on the earth after the flood

Quote: וּ⁠מֵ⁠אֵ֜לֶּה נִפְרְד֧וּ הַ⁠גּוֹיִ֛ם בָּ⁠אָ֖רֶץ אַחַ֥ר הַ⁠מַּבּֽוּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

Consider again how you translated nations in verses 5, 20, 31-32. Alternate translation: “From those people came all the ethnic groups who spread out over the earth after the flood.”

Genesis 11

Genesis 11:1

Now the whole earth had one language

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִ֥י כָל־הָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ שָׂפָ֣ה אֶחָ֑ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background

The events in chapter 11:1-9 happened before the people listed in chapter 10 had their own languages and before they spread out over the earth (Gen 10:5, 19-20, 30-32). You could include some of that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: “Now at first, everyone on the earth shared the same language” or “Now for a while, all the people on the earth spoke one language”

and the same words

Quote: וּ⁠דְבָרִ֖ים אֲחָדִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The phrases one language and the same words are very similar in meaning and emphasize the fact that everyone spoke the same language. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: “and shared the same vocabulary.” or “and spoke words everyone knew”

Genesis 11:2

And it happened

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִ֖י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The phrase “it happened that” introduces an important event and helps create suspense so that readers will wonder what the outcome will be. Some translations omit this phrase because it is not natural in their language. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “After a while, as” or “When”

as they migrated

Quote: בְּ⁠נָסְעָ֣⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider whether it is better in your language to use a pronoun (they) or a noun phrase (“the people”) here. Alternate translation: “they traveled” or “the people moved”

from the east

Quote: מִ⁠קֶּ֑דֶם (1)

At first after the flood, people lived in the regions around the mountains of Ararat (where the ark had landed). As they began to migrate and spread out to different places (as God had told them to do), they must have headed south at some point since they ended up at the plain of Shinar, which was south of where the Ararat Mountains were. The reference to the east probably reflects the viewpoint of the author (Moses), since the Ararat mountains and the plain of Shinar were both far to the east of where he was living. Alternate translation: “around in the eastern regions,”

that they found

Quote: וַֽ⁠יִּמְצְא֥וּ (1)

Make sure the way you translate this phrase fits with the way you translated the first half of this verse. Alternate translation: “they discovered” or “they eventually came to”

a plain in the land of Shinar

Quote: בִקְעָ֛ה בְּ⁠אֶ֥רֶץ שִׁנְעָ֖ר (1)

This plain was a wide, flat area between mountains. Also be consistent here with how you translated land of Shinar in Gen 10:10. Alternate translation: “a wide flat area in the land called Shinar”

and settled there

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֥שְׁבוּ שָֽׁם (1)

Alternate translation: “and lived there.” or “and began to live there.”

Genesis 11:3

Then they said to each other

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּאמְר֞וּ אִ֣ישׁ אֶל־רֵעֵ֗⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The events that are described below probably did not happen immediately after they arrived at the plain. Consider what is the best way to begin these events in your language. Alternate translation: “Then one day they urged each other,”

Come

Quote: הָ֚בָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Consider whether or not your language has an idiom like this that is used to urge or persuade someone to do something together.

let us make

Quote: נִלְבְּנָ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

The pronoun us is inclusive here and refers to the people who are talking to each other. Alternate translation: “we should work together and make”

bricks

Quote: לְבֵנִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Alternate translation: “some mud blocks” or “some blocks from mud”

and bake them with fire

Quote: וְ⁠נִשְׂרְפָ֖ה לִ⁠שְׂרֵפָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “and harden them with fire.” or “and use fire to bake them.” or “and put them over fire to make them hard”

And they had

Quote: וַ⁠תְּהִ֨י לָ⁠הֶ֤ם (1)

Alternate translation: “So they did that, and they had” or “They had”

bricks for stones

Quote: הַ⁠לְּבֵנָה֙ לְ⁠אָ֔בֶן (1)

Alternate translation: “blocks to build with instead of stone,”

and they had tar

Quote: וְ⁠הַ֣⁠חֵמָ֔ר הָיָ֥ה לָ⁠הֶ֖ם (1)

Alternate translation: “and they used tar between the blocks”

for mortar

Quote: לַ⁠חֹֽמֶר (1)

Alternate translation: “to hold the blocks together.”

Genesis 11:4

Then they said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּאמְר֞וּ (1)

Alternate translation: “Then they said to each other,”

Come

Quote: הָ֣בָ⁠ה (1)

See how you translated this idiom in verse 3.

let us build

Quote: נִבְנֶה (1)

See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 3. Alternate translation: “let us work together and build”

and a tower

Quote: וּ⁠מִגְדָּל֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “that has a high tower” or “with a very tall building”

with its top in the heavens

Quote: וְ⁠רֹאשׁ֣⁠וֹ בַ⁠שָּׁמַ֔יִם (1)

Alternate translation: “that reaches high into the heavens” or “that reaches up to heaven,”

and let us make a name for ourselves, so that we are not scattered

Quote: וְ⁠נַֽעֲשֶׂה לָּ֖⁠נוּ שֵׁ֑ם פֶּן נָפ֖וּץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase make a name for ourselves is a idiom. Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom that would work well here. Also see how you translated the word scattered in Gen 10:18, 32. Alternate translation: “We should do that to make ourselves famous and to keep us from spreading out” or “That way we will become well-known and we will not separate from each other and live”

over the face of the whole earth

Quote: עַל פְּנֵ֥י כָל הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Alternate translation: “all over the world.” or “around the world.”

Genesis 11:5

Then Yahweh came down

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֣רֶד יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Alternate translation: “Then one day Yahweh came down from heaven”

to see the city

Quote: לִ⁠רְאֹ֥ת אֶת הָ⁠עִ֖יר (1)

The text implies that Yahweh actually looked at the city. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to make that explicit here. Alternate translation: “and inspected the city”

and the tower

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת הַ⁠מִּגְדָּ֑ל (1)

See how you translated this word in verse 4.

had built

Quote: בָּנ֖וּ (1)

Make sure the way you translate this verb fits with the fact that the people had not yet finished building the city (verse 8). Alternate translation: “had started building.”

Genesis 11:6

And Yahweh said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider what is the best way to refer to Yahweh here in your language. Alternate translation: “And he said (to himself),” or “He said,”

Behold

Quote: הֵ֣ן (1)

This term calls attention to what Yahweh says next. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language.

they are} one people

Quote: עַ֤ם אֶחָד֙ (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “they are one people/ethnic group,” or (2) “the/these people are one/united in what they are doing,”

and they all have one language

Quote: וְ⁠שָׂפָ֤ה אַחַת֙ לְ⁠כֻלָּ֔⁠ם (1)

See how you translated have one language in verse 1. Alternate translation: “and they all share the same language.”

So this {is} what they have begun to do

Quote: וְ⁠זֶ֖ה הַחִלָּ֣⁠ם לַ⁠עֲשׂ֑וֹת (1)

Alternate translation: “This is only the beginning of what they will do together.”

and now

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּה֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “Now”

everything that they plan to do will not be impossible for them

Quote: לֹֽא יִבָּצֵ֣ר מֵ⁠הֶ֔ם כֹּ֛ל אֲשֶׁ֥ר יָזְמ֖וּ לַֽ⁠עֲשֽׂוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

The words not and impossible are two negatives that work together to communicate an emphatic positive statement. Consider what is the best way to translate this in your language. Alternate translation: “nothing that they plan to do will be impossible for them.” or “anything they attempt to do will be possible for them.” or “they will be able to do whatever they try to do.”

Genesis 11:7

Come

Quote: הָ֚בָ⁠ה (1)

Alternate translation: “So come on,”

let us go down … there

Quote: נֵֽרְדָ֔ה & שָׁ֖ם (1)

Most Bible scholars think the plural pronoun us refers here to God and the fact that he is three Persons in one God. So it is best to keep this plural pronoun in your translation. See what you did for similar pronouns in Gen 1:26. Alternate translation: “let us go to them”

and … confuse their language

Quote: וְ⁠נָבְלָ֥ה & שְׂפָתָ֑⁠ם (1)

Alternate translation: “and scramble their language”

so that they will not understand

Quote: אֲשֶׁר֙ לֹ֣א יִשְׁמְע֔וּ (1)

Alternate translation: “so that they will not be able to understand” or “so that they cannot understand”

Genesis 11:8

Then Yahweh scattered them from there

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֨פֶץ יְהוָ֥ה אֹתָ֛⁠ם מִ⁠שָּׁ֖ם (1)

Alternate translation: “So Yahweh did that and caused the people to leave from there and spread out” or “That is how Yahweh caused the people to leave from there and settle in different places”

over the face of the whole earth

Quote: עַל פְּנֵ֣י כָל הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Alternate translation: “over the surface of the entire earth,” or “all over the earth”

and they stopped building

Quote: וַֽ⁠יַּחְדְּל֖וּ לִ⁠בְנֹ֥ת (1)

Alternate translation: “so that they had to stop constructing”

the city

Quote: הָ⁠עִֽיר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it is better to change the order of clauses in this verse (so that events are in the order that they happened) and say, “In that way, Yahweh caused the people to stop building the city and the tower and to move away from each other, so that eventually they lived all over the world.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “the city and the tower.”

Genesis 11:9

they called its name

Quote: קָרָ֤א שְׁמָ⁠הּ֙ (1)

Frequently in the Hebrew text, this phrase has a general meaning and does not refer to someone specific. Alternate translation: “people named the city” or “the name of that city is” or “the city was named”

Babel

Quote: בָּבֶ֔ל (1)

If you include the meaning of Babel here in your translation or in a footnote, be consistent with the way you translate confused later in this verse and in verse 7.

because there Yahweh

Quote: כִּי שָׁ֛ם & יְהוָ֖ה (1)

Alternate translation: “because it was in that city that Yahweh”

confused

Quote: בָּלַ֥ל (1)

Alternate translation: “scrambled”

the language of the whole earth

Quote: שְׂפַ֣ת כָּל הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “the language that everyone on the earth spoke”

and from there Yahweh scattered them

Quote: וּ⁠מִ⁠שָּׁם֙ הֱפִיצָ֣⁠ם יְהוָ֔ה (1)

Alternate translation: “and in that way Yahweh made them spread out from there”

over the face of the whole earth

Quote: עַל פְּנֵ֖י כָּל הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verses 4 and 8. Alternate translation: “over the surface of the entire earth.” or “all over the world.”

Genesis 11:10

Shem {was} the son of 100 years, then he fathered Arpachshad two years after the flood

Quote: שֵׁ֚ם בֶּן מְאַ֣ת שָׁנָ֔ה וַ⁠יּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת אַרְפַּכְשָׁ֑ד שְׁנָתַ֖יִם אַחַ֥ר הַ⁠מַּבּֽוּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

The phrase after the flood probably refers to two years after the flood began, not after it ended; see a similar case in Gen 9:28. Also be consistent here with how you spelled “Arpachshad/Arphaxad” in Gen 10:22. Alternate translation: “Two years after the flood began, when Shem was 100 years old, he had a son named Arphaxad.”

Genesis 11:11

Then after he fathered Arpachshad, Shem lived

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִי שֵׁ֗ם אַֽחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣⁠וֹ אֶת אַרְפַּכְשָׁ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Throughout this section, make sure that names and pronouns (like he) are used in a way that is accurate and natural in your language, so that it is always clear who is being referred to. Alternate translation: “After he had Arphaxad, he lived” or “After Arphaxad was born, Shem lived”

500 years

Quote: חֲמֵ֥שׁ מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

See how you translated Gen 5:7, which has the same sentence structure as 11:11. For some languages, it may be more natural to change the clause order of this sentence and say, “Shem lived 500 more years after Arpachshad/Arphaxad was born …” Do what is best in your language throughout this chapter. Alternate translation: “500 more years,”

and he fathered

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֥וֹלֶד (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated this phrase and the following one in Gen 5:4. Alternate translation: “and he also had” or “Shem also had” or “He was also the father of”

other} sons and daughters

Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּ⁠בָנֽוֹת (1)

Alternate translation: “other sons as well as daughters.”

Genesis 11:12

And Arpachshad lived thirty-five years

Quote: וְ⁠אַרְפַּכְשַׁ֣ד חַ֔י חָמֵ֥שׁ וּ⁠שְׁלֹשִׁ֖ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Make sure that your translation of this clause does not mean that Arpachshad only lived to be thirty-five years old. Also, throughout this chapter, be consistent with how you have decided to handle numbers in the Bible. For example, many translation teams use words for single and double-digit numbers, but use numerals for larger numbers. This strategy helps prevent confusion with verse numbers. This is especially true in translations that use a large font size for verse numbers so that people doing group Bible study can easily see the numbers and be in the same verse together. See what you did in chapter 5. Alternate translation: “When Arphaxad had lived 35 years,” or “When Arphaxad was 35 years old,”

then he fathered Shelah

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת שָֽׁלַח (1)

See how you translated Gen 5:6, which has the same sentence structure as 11:12. Alternate translation: “he fathered a son named Shelah.” or “he fathered a son they named Shelah.” or “he fathered a son whose name was Shelah.”

Genesis 11:13

Then after he fathered Shelah, Arpachshad lived

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִ֣י אַרְפַּכְשַׁ֗ד אַֽחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣⁠וֹ אֶת שֶׁ֔לַח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Be consistent with how you spell the name “Arpachshad/Arphaxad” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 10:22, 24; 11:10-13. Alternate translation: “After he had Shelah, Arphaxad lived” or “After Shelah was born, Arphaxad lived”

403 years

Quote: שָׁלֹ֣שׁ שָׁנִ֔ים וְ⁠אַרְבַּ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “403 more years,”

and he fathered

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֥וֹלֶד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Arpachshad at this point in the paragraph. Alternate translation: “and he also had” or “He also fathered” or “He was also the father of”

other} sons and daughters

Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּ⁠בָנֽוֹת (1)

Alternate translation: “other sons as well as daughters.”

Genesis 11:14

And Shelah lived thirty years

Quote: וְ⁠שֶׁ֥לַח חַ֖י שְׁלֹשִׁ֣ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “When Shelah had lived 30 years,” or “When Shelah was 30 years old,”

then he fathered Eber

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת עֵֽבֶר (1)

Alternate translation: “he fathered a son named Eber.” or “he had a son whose name was Eber.”

Genesis 11:15

Then after he fathered Eber, Shelah lived

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִי שֶׁ֗לַח אַחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣⁠וֹ אֶת עֵ֔בֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Be consistent with how you spell the name Shelah in Gen 10:24; 11:12-15. Alternate translation: “After he had Eber, he lived”

403 years

Quote: שָׁלֹ֣שׁ שָׁנִ֔ים וְ⁠אַרְבַּ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “403 more years,”

and he fathered

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֥וֹלֶד (1)

Alternate translation: “and he also had” or “Shelah also had” or “He was also the father of”

other} sons and daughters

Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּ⁠בָנֽוֹת (1)

Alternate translation: “other sons as well as daughters.”

Genesis 11:16

And Eber lived thirty-four years

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִי עֵ֕בֶר אַרְבַּ֥ע וּ⁠שְׁלֹשִׁ֖ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “When Eber had lived 34 years,” or “When Eber was 34 years old,”

then he fathered Peleg

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת פָּֽלֶג (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Alternate translation: “he fathered a son named Peleg.” or “he had a son whose name was Peleg.”

Genesis 11:17

Then after he fathered Peleg, Eber lived

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִי עֵ֗בֶר אַחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣⁠וֹ אֶת פֶּ֔לֶג (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Be consistent with how you spell the name Eber in Gen 10:24-25; 11:14-17. Alternate translation: “After he had Peleg, he lived”

430 years

Quote: שְׁלֹשִׁ֣ים שָׁנָ֔ה וְ⁠אַרְבַּ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “430 more years,”

and he fathered

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֥וֹלֶד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Eber at this point in the paragraph. Alternate translation: “and he also had” or “Eber also had” or “He was also the father of”

other} sons and daughters

Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּ⁠בָנֽוֹת (1)

Alternate translation: “other sons as well as daughters.”

Genesis 11:18

And Peleg lived thirty years

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִי פֶ֖לֶג שְׁלֹשִׁ֣ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “When Peleg had lived 30 years,” or “When Peleg was 30 years old,”

then he fathered Reu

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת רְעֽוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “he fathered a son named Reu.” or “he had a son whose name was Reu.”

Genesis 11:19

Then after he fathered Reu, Peleg lived

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִי פֶ֗לֶג אַחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣⁠וֹ אֶת רְע֔וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Be consistent with how you spell the name Peleg in Gen 10:25; 11:16-19. Alternate translation: “After he had Reu, he lived”

209 years

Quote: תֵּ֥שַׁע שָׁנִ֖ים וּ⁠מָאתַ֣יִם שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “209 more years,”

and he fathered

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֥וֹלֶד (1)

Alternate translation: “and he also had” or “Peleg also had” or “He was also the father of”

other} sons and daughters

Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּ⁠בָנֽוֹת (1)

Alternate translation: “other sons as well as daughters.”

Genesis 11:20

And Reu lived thirty-two years

Quote: וַ⁠יְחִ֣י רְע֔וּ שְׁתַּ֥יִם וּ⁠שְׁלֹשִׁ֖ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “When Reu had lived 32 years,” or “When Reu was 32 years old,”

then he fathered Serug

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת שְׂרֽוּג (1)

Alternate translation: “he fathered a son named Serug.” or “he had a son whose name was Serug.”

Genesis 11:21

Then after he fathered Serug, Reu lived

Quote: וַ⁠יְחִ֣י רְע֗וּ אַחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣⁠וֹ אֶת שְׂר֔וּג (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Be consistent with how you spell Reu in Gen 11:18-21. Alternate translation: “After Reu had Serug, he lived”

207 years

Quote: שֶׁ֥בַע שָׁנִ֖ים וּ⁠מָאתַ֣יִם שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “207 more years,”

and he fathered

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֥וֹלֶד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Reu at this point in the paragraph. Alternate translation: “and he also had” or “Reu also had” or “He was also the father of”

other} sons and daughters

Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּ⁠בָנֽוֹת (1)

Alternate translation: “other sons as well as daughters.”

Genesis 11:22

And Serug lived thirty years

Quote: וַ⁠יְחִ֥י שְׂר֖וּג שְׁלֹשִׁ֣ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “When Serug had lived 30 years,” or “When Serug was 30 years old,”

then he fathered Nahor

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת נָחֽוֹר (1)

Alternate translation: “he fathered a son named Nahor.” or “he had a son whose name was Nahor.”

Genesis 11:23

Then after he fathered Nahor, Serug lived

Quote: וַ⁠יְחִ֣י שְׂר֗וּג אַחֲרֵ֛י הוֹלִיד֥⁠וֹ אֶת נָח֖וֹר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Be consistent with how you spell the name Serug in Gen 11:20-23. Alternate translation: “After he had Nahor, he lived”

200 years

Quote: מָאתַ֣יִם שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “200 more years,”

and he fathered

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֥וֹלֶד (1)

Alternate translation: “and he also had” or “Serug also had” or “He was also the father of”

other} sons and daughters

Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּ⁠בָנֽוֹת (1)

Alternate translation: “other sons as well as daughters.”

Genesis 11:24

And Nahor lived twenty-nine years

Quote: וַ⁠יְחִ֣י נָח֔וֹר תֵּ֥שַׁע וְ⁠עֶשְׂרִ֖ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “When Nahor had lived 29 years,” or “When Nahor was 29 years old,”

then he fathered Terah

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת תָּֽרַח (1)

Consider again how you translated verses 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, and 24, which all have the same sentence structure. Alternate translation: “he fathered a son named Terah.” or “he had a son whose name was Terah.”

Genesis 11:25

Then after he fathered Terah, Nahor lived

Quote: וַ⁠יְחִ֣י נָח֗וֹר אַחֲרֵי֙ הוֹלִיד֣⁠וֹ אֶת תֶּ֔רַח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Alternate translation: “After he had Terah, he lived”

119 years

Quote: תְּשַֽׁע־עֶשְׂרֵ֥ה שָׁנָ֖ה וּ⁠מְאַ֣ת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “119 more years,”

and he fathered

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֥וֹלֶד (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “and he also had” or “Nahor also had” or “He was also the father of”

other} sons and daughters

Quote: בָּנִ֖ים וּ⁠בָנֽוֹת (1)

Consider again how you translated verses 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23 and 25, which all have the same sentence structure. Alternate translation: “other sons as well as daughters.”

Genesis 11:26

And Terah lived seventy years

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְחִי־תֶ֖רַח שִׁבְעִ֣ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Your translation needs to allow for the fact that Terah’s sons were not triplets (just as Noah’s sons were not triplets; see Gen 5:32), rather he started having children after he turned seventy and his sons were born in different years after that. In fact, Abram was not born until Terah was at least 130 years old (11:32, 12:4-5; Acts 7:4), and he was probably Terah’s youngest son. Abram is listed first (instead of Haran or Nahor) probably because of his importance as the one whom Yahweh made His covenant with. Some of this information could be put in a footnote. Alternate translation: “After Terah had lived 70 years,” or “After Terah turned 70 years old,”

then he fathered Abram, Nahor, and Haran

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֨וֹלֶד֙ אֶת אַבְרָ֔ם אֶת נָח֖וֹר וְ⁠אֶת הָרָֽן (1)

Alternate translation: “he had sons named Abram, Nahor, and Haran.” or “he fathered sons whose names were Abram, Nahor, and Haran.”

Genesis 11:27

Now these {are} the generations of Terah

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֨לֶּה֙ תּוֹלְדֹ֣ת תֶּ֔רַח (1)

This section is different from the previous section. What follows is a history about Terah’s descendants (especially Abram); it is not a genealogy or list of names. See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 6:9. Alternate translation: “This is the account about Terah and his family:”

Terah fathered Abram, Nahor, and Haran

Quote: תֶּ֚רַח הוֹלִ֣יד אֶת אַבְרָ֔ם אֶת נָח֖וֹר וְ⁠אֶת הָרָ֑ן (1)

Alternate translation: “Terah had sons named Abram, Nahor, and Haran;”

and Haran fathered Lot

Quote: וְ⁠הָרָ֖ן הוֹלִ֥יד אֶת לֽוֹט (1)

Alternate translation: “and Haran had a son named Lot.” or “and Haran had a son whose name was Lot.”

Genesis 11:28

And Haran died in the presence of Terah his father

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֣מָת הָרָ֔ן עַל פְּנֵ֖י תֶּ֣רַח אָבִ֑י⁠ו (1)

Alternate translation: “Later Haran died while he was with his father Terah,” or “While his father Terah was still alive, Haran died”

in the land of his birth

Quote: בְּ⁠אֶ֥רֶץ מוֹלַדְתּ֖⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “in his native land,”

in Ur of the Kasdim

Quote: בְּ⁠א֥וּר כַּשְׂדִּֽים (1)

The word Kasdim probably comes from the name of one of Nahor’s sons, Kesed (Gen 22:22), and often refers to the Chaldeans who were a people group that lived in the country of Babylonia (where Ur was located). Alternate translation: “in the city of Ur which was ruled by the Kasdim” or “in the city of Ur where the Kasdim people lived.”

Genesis 11:29

And Abram and Nahor took wives for themselves

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקַּ֨ח אַבְרָ֧ם וְ⁠נָח֛וֹר לָ⁠הֶ֖ם נָשִׁ֑ים (1)

Alternate translation: “Meanwhile Abram and Nahor each got married.”

Genesis 11:30

But Sarai was barren

Quote: וַ⁠תְּהִ֥י שָׂרַ֖י עֲקָרָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Consider what is the best way in your language to introduce this background information about Sarai. Alternate translation: “Now Sarai was unable to conceive,” or “Sarai was not able to get pregnant,”

she did not have a child

Quote: אֵ֥ין לָ֖⁠הּ וָלָֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be better to switch the order of the clauses in this verse and say, “But/Now Sarai did not have any children, because she was not able to conceive.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “so she had no children.”

Genesis 11:31

Then Terah took

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקַּ֨ח תֶּ֜רַח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

Consider what is the best way to begin this new paragraph in your language. Alternate translation: “One day, Terah called together”

Abram his son

Quote: אֶת אַבְרָ֣ם בְּנ֗⁠וֹ (1)

Make sure it is clear in your translation of this phrase that his son refers to Abram, not another person.

and Lot, Haran’s son, his son’s son

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת ל֤וֹט בֶּן הָרָן֙ בֶּן בְּנ֔⁠וֹ (1)

The phrases “Lot,” “Haran’s son,” and his son’s son all refer to Lot. Make sure that is clear in your translation and that it does not sound like three people.

and Sarai his daughter-in-law

Quote: וְ⁠אֵת֙ שָׂרַ֣י כַּלָּת֔⁠וֹ (1)

The phrases “Sarai,” “his daughter-in-law,” and the wife of his son Abram all refer to Sarai. Make sure that is clear in your translation.

and they went out together

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּצְא֨וּ אִתָּ֜⁠ם (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “and all of them set out together” or “Then they all left”

from Ur of

Quote: מֵ⁠א֣וּר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the note at Gen 10:19 about how to translate the names of cities. Alternate translation: “from Ur City”

the Kasdim

Quote: כַּשְׂדִּ֗ים (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 28. Alternate translation: “of the Chaldeans” or “where the Kasdim people lived”

to go to the land of Canaan

Quote: לָ⁠לֶ֨כֶת֙ אַ֣רְצָ⁠ה כְּנַ֔עַן (1)

Alternate translation: “to go to the region of Canaan.” or “to go to Canaan Land.”

But they came to Haran

Quote: וַ⁠יָּבֹ֥אוּ עַד חָרָ֖ן (1)

The city of Haran was not in the land of Canaan, rather it was around 450 kilometers (280 miles) northeast of there. Alternate translation: “But on the way there, they came to the city of Haran, and” or “But along the way, when they stopped at the city of Haran,”

and they settled there

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֥שְׁבוּ שָֽׁם (1)

Alternate translation: “they stayed there instead.” or “they decided to settle there instead.”

Genesis 11:32

And the days of Terah were 205 years

Quote: וַ⁠יִּהְי֣וּ יְמֵי תֶ֔רַח חָמֵ֥שׁ שָׁנִ֖ים וּ⁠מָאתַ֣יִם שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “When Terah reached the age of 205 years,”

in Haran

Quote: בְּ⁠חָרָֽן (1)

Alternate translation: “in Haran City.”

Genesis 12

Genesis 12:1

Then Yahweh said to Abram

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר יְהוָה֙ אֶל אַבְרָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

Consider what is the best way to begin this new section in your language. Also, make sure that the way you translate this quote margin fits with what Yahweh says in the following quote. Alternate translation: “Then one day Yahweh told Abram,”

You yourself must go from your land

Quote: לֶךְ לְ⁠ךָ֛ מֵ⁠אַרְצְ⁠ךָ֥ (1)

Alternate translation: “Get yourself away from your country” or “You must move away from your country” or “You must leave behind the land where you are living”

and from your relatives

Quote: וּ⁠מִ⁠מּֽוֹלַדְתְּ⁠ךָ֖ (1)

Alternate translation: “and your people,”

and from the house of your father

Quote: וּ⁠מִ⁠בֵּ֣ית אָבִ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The phrase the house refers here to everyone who was a member of Terah’s household.

to the land

Quote: אֶל הָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “and go to the place”

Genesis 12:2

And I will make you

Quote: וְ⁠אֶֽעֶשְׂ⁠ךָ֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “I will make you the father of”

into a great nation

Quote: לְ⁠ג֣וֹי גָּד֔וֹל (1)

Alternate translation: “an large people group,” or “a large, important ethnic group,”

and I will bless you

Quote: וַ⁠אֲבָ֣רֶכְ⁠ךָ֔ (1)

See how you translated “blessed” in Gen 1:22, 28. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: “and I will bless you and them.” or “and I will cause you all to flourish.”

and I will make your name great

Quote: וַ⁠אֲגַדְּלָ֖ה שְׁמֶ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Consider what is the best way to translate this idiom in your language. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “I will make you important and famous,”

and you must be a blessing

Quote: וֶ⁠הְיֵ֖ה בְּרָכָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Alternate translation: “and you will be a blessing to many people.” or “and I will use you and your descendants to bless many people.”

Genesis 12:3

but whoever curses you I will curse

Quote: וּ⁠מְקַלֶּלְ⁠ךָ֖ אָאֹ֑ר (1)

See how you translated curse in Gen 8:21.

in you

Quote: בְ⁠ךָ֔ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

This phrase refers to Abram and his descendants, including ultimately the Messiah. In other words, God’s promise in this verse is part of his wonderful news (the Gospel message) for all people (Galatians 3:8-9) and is a prophecy about the Messiah/Christ, who was one of Abraham’s descendants (Matthew 1:1, Genesis 22:18, Galatians 3:16). God blessed all people on earth by sending his Son Jesus (the Messiah/Christ) to die in their place and pay for all their sins (John 3:16-18, 1 Timothy 2:3-6), so that they could have a close relationship with him/God and be part of his family forever. God repeats this great promise in Genesis 18:18; 22:18; 26:4; 28:14. You could put some of that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: “Through you and your offspring” or “Because of you and your offspring” or “By means of you and your offspring”

And … all the families of the earth will be blessed

Quote: וְ⁠נִבְרְכ֣וּ & כֹּ֖ל מִשְׁפְּחֹ֥ת הָ⁠אֲדָמָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

Consider what is the best way in your language to translate this passive sentence. For some languages it is clearer to change the order of the sentence and say, “I will use you and your offspring/descendants to bless all the families/people on the earth.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “all the people on the earth will be blessed by me.” or “I will bless all the people on the earth.”

Genesis 12:4

Then Abram went, just as Yahweh had told him

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֣לֶךְ אַבְרָ֗ם כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֨ר דִּבֶּ֤ר אֵלָי⁠ו֙ יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Consider what is the best way in your language to begin this sentence to show that Abram is now doing what God just commanded him to do (verse 1). Alternate translation: “Then Abram left the city of Haran, just as Yahweh had told him to do,” or “Then Abram did what Yahweh had told him to do and left the city of Haran,”

and Lot went with him

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֥לֶךְ אִתּ֖⁠וֹ ל֑וֹט (1)

Alternate translation: “and his nephew Lot left with him.”

And Abram

Quote: וְ⁠אַבְרָ֗ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background

Many translations omit the conjunction And or “Now” here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Now Abram”

was the son of

Quote: בֶּן (1)

See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 5:32 and 11:10. Alternate translation: “was 75 years old”

when he departed

Quote: בְּ⁠צֵאת֖⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “when he set out”

from Haran

Quote: מֵ⁠חָרָֽן (1)

Alternate translation: “from the city of Haran.”

Genesis 12:5

And Abram took Sarai his wife

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקַּ֣ח אַבְרָם֩ אֶת שָׂרַ֨י אִשְׁתּ֜⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

Be consistent here with how you spelled Sarai in Gen 11:29-31. Alternate translation: “He brought with him his wife Sarai”

and Lot the son of his brother

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת ל֣וֹט בֶּן אָחִ֗י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

For some languages it is more natural to make son of his brother or “his nephew” explicit in verse 4 (where Lot is first mentioned in this section) and leave it implied here in verse 5. Do what is best in your language.

and all their possessions that they had accumulated and the people whom they had acquired

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת כָּל רְכוּשָׁ⁠ם֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר רָכָ֔שׁוּ וְ⁠אֶת הַ⁠נֶּ֖פֶשׁ אֲשֶׁר עָשׂ֣וּ (1)

The word possessions is general here and includes slaves, animals, furniture, clothes, and money. See how you translated “slave” or “servant” in Gen 9:25-27. Alternate translation: “everything that they owned, including slaves and everything else they had gotten”

in Haran

Quote: בְ⁠חָרָ֑ן (1)

“in the city of Haran,” or “in Haran City

to the land of Canaan

Quote: אַ֣רְצָ⁠ה כְּנַ֔עַן (1)

Alternate translation: “to the land called Canaan.” or “to Canaan Land.”

Then they came to the land of Canaan

Quote: וַ⁠יָּבֹ֖אוּ אַ֥רְצָ⁠ה כְּנָֽעַן (1)

Alternate translation: “Then they arrived in Canaan.” or “When they reached Canaan,” or “When they got there,”

Genesis 12:6

Then Abram passed

Quote: וַ⁠יַּעֲבֹ֤ר אַבְרָם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Abram is the only one named here because he is in focus. However, your translation should not sound like he traveled alone in verse 6. Also make sure that the way you begin this verse in your translation fits with the way you ended verse 5. Alternate translation: “Abram went” or “Abram and his family went” or “they went”

through the land

Quote: בָּ⁠אָ֔רֶץ (1)

See how you translated land in verse 5. Alternate translation: “through that land”

as far as

Quote: עַ֚ד (1)

Alternate translation: “until they arrived at”

the place of Shechem

Quote: מְק֣וֹם שְׁכֶ֔ם (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “the city of Shechem,” or (2) “the/a sacred place at/near the city of Shechem,”

to the terebinth tree of Moreh

Quote: עַ֖ד אֵל֣וֹן מוֹרֶ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

Moreh is probably the name of the person who owned the land where the terebinth tree was. A terebinth tree is a large, broadleaf, flowering tree in the cashew family that can grow to a height of 5 to 12 meters (16 to 40 feet). The Hebrew words for “oak” and terebinth are similar, so many translations (including LXX) translate this as “oak tree” here. Notice, however, that oak trees and terebinth trees are from two different families of trees.

And the Canaanites {were} in the land at that time

Quote: וְ⁠הַֽ⁠כְּנַעֲנִ֖י אָ֥ז בָּ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it is clearer and more natural to put the time phrase (at that time) first in this sentence. Alternate translation: “At that time the Canaanites were still living in that region,”

Genesis 12:7

Then Yahweh appeared to Abram

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּרָ֤א יְהוָה֙ אֶל אַבְרָ֔ם (1)

Yahweh’s promise in verse 7 to give Canaan to Abram’s descendants contrasts with the fact that the Canaanites were still occupying that region (verse 6). Also, notice that the text does not specify in what form or in what way God appeared to Abram, so your translation should not do that either. Alternate translation: “Then Yahweh came to Abram” or “but Yahweh visited Abram”

and said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֕אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “and promised to him,”

To your offspring I will give this land

Quote: לְ⁠זַ֨רְעֲ⁠ךָ֔ אֶתֵּ֖ן אֶת הָ⁠אָ֣רֶץ הַ⁠זֹּ֑את (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

In the Hebrew text, the phrase “to your offspring” is emphasized by its position at the beginning of this quote. However, for some languages it may be clearer and more natural to change the order of the clauses and say, “I will give this land to your offspring/descendants.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “I will give this land to your offspring”

So he built an altar

Quote: וַ⁠יִּ֤בֶן & מִזְבֵּ֔חַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider what is the best way to refer to Abram here in your language. See how you translated altar in Gen 8:20. Alternate translation: “So he made an altar out of large stones” or “So he built a sacrifice mound with stones”

there

Quote: שָׁם֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “near the tree”

to Yahweh

Quote: לַ⁠יהוָ֖ה (1)

Alternate translation: “and burned sacrifices on it to thank and worship Yahweh,”

who had appeared to him

Quote: הַ⁠נִּרְאֶ֥ה אֵלָֽי⁠ו (1)

See how you translated appeared earlier in verse 7. Alternate translation: “who had come to him there.” or “because he had come to him there.”

Genesis 12:8

Then from there he went on

Quote: וַ⁠יַּעְתֵּ֨ק מִ⁠שָּׁ֜ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Alternate translation: “From the place of Shechem, he and his family moved south to”

to the mountains to the east of Bethel

Quote: הָ⁠הָ֗רָ⁠ה מִ⁠קֶּ֛דֶם לְ⁠בֵֽית אֵ֖ל (1)

Alternate translation: “the mountainous region east of the town of Bethel”

and pitched his tents

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֣ט אָהֳלֹ֑⁠ה (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated “tent” in Gen 9:21, 27. Alternate translation: “and put up his tents there” or “They set up their camp”

with} Bethel on the west and Ai on the east

Quote: בֵּֽית אֵ֤ל מִ⁠יָּם֙ וְ⁠הָ⁠עַ֣י מִ⁠קֶּ֔דֶם (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Bethel was to the west of them and the town of Ai was to the east.”

And there he built

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽבֶן שָׁ֤ם (1)

Alternate translation: “There he made”

an altar

Quote: מִזְבֵּ֨חַ֙ (1)

See how you translated altar in verse 7. Alternate translation: “another sacrifice mound”

to Yahweh

Quote: לַֽ⁠יהוָ֔ה (1)

See how you translated to Yahweh in verse 7.

and he called on the name of Yahweh

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֖א בְּ⁠שֵׁ֥ם יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 4:26. Alternate translation: “and he praised him by name.” or “he addressed him by his name as he praised him.” or “he praised him.”

Genesis 12:9

Then Abram set out and continued to travel

Quote: וַ⁠יִּסַּ֣ע אַבְרָ֔ם הָל֥וֹךְ וְ⁠נָס֖וֹעַ (1)

Alternate translation: “After that, he and his family traveled in stages” or “Then he and his family moved from place to place”

toward the Negev

Quote: הַ⁠נֶּֽגְבָּ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The Hebrew word Negev can mean “south” or “dry country,” so some translations translate the meaning. But most translations transliterate the Hebrew name (as Negev or “Negeb”) as they do with other names in the Bible. Alternate translation: “south toward the Negev Wilderness” or “southward until they reached the Southern Wilderness”

Genesis 12:10

Then there was

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֥י (1)

This clause gives the setting for the rest of the sentence. Translate this in a way that is natural in your language.

a famine

Quote: רָעָ֖ב (1)

A famine is a prolonged period of time when people are starving because crops are failing, often due to a lack of rain or other severe weather conditions. Alternate translation: “a serious lack of food” or “a hungry time when food was very scarce”

in the land

Quote: בָּ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “in that area,” or “in the Negev Desert,”

so Abram went down

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֨רֶד אַבְרָ֤ם (1)

This phrase refers to the fact that Egypt is lower in elevation than Canaan (verse 5). It is also located southwest of Canaan. Alternate translation: “so Abram and his family traveled southwest” or “so Abram and his family moved further south”

to Egypt

Quote: מִצְרַ֨יְמָ⁠ה֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “to the land of Egypt”

to sojourn there

Quote: לָ⁠ג֣וּר שָׁ֔ם (1)

Alternate translation: “to live there for a while”

because the famine {was} heavy

Quote: כִּֽי כָבֵ֥ד הָ⁠רָעָ֖ב (1)

Alternate translation: “because the food shortage was very severe”

in the land

Quote: בָּ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be more natural to put this clause near the beginning of this verse and say, “Then/Now there was a famine in that land/region that was so heavy/severe/bad that Abram and his family left there and went down to the land/country of Egypt to live for a while.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “in that land” or “in the Negev Desert so they could not survive there.”

Genesis 12:11

And it happened that as he was about to enter Egypt

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֕י כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֥ר הִקְרִ֖יב לָ⁠ב֣וֹא מִצְרָ֑יְמָ⁠ה (1)

Alternate translation: “As they approached Egypt,”

then he said to Sarai his wife

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אֶל־שָׂרַ֣י אִשְׁתּ֔⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “he told his wife Sarai,”

Behold please

Quote: הִנֵּה נָ֣א (1)

Alternate translation: “Listen please,” or “Please listen to this:”

I know that you {are} a woman beautiful in appearance

Quote: יָדַ֔עְתִּי כִּ֛י אִשָּׁ֥ה יְפַת מַרְאֶ֖ה אָֽתְּ (1)

Alternate translation: “I know that you are a very beautiful woman.”

Genesis 12:12

So it will happen when

Quote: וְ⁠הָיָ֗ה כִּֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Consider whether it is better in your language to begin this sentence with or without a conjunction (So). Alternate translation: “So when”

the Egyptians

Quote: הַ⁠מִּצְרִ֔ים (1)

Alternate translation: “the people of Egypt”

see you

Quote: יִרְא֤וּ אֹתָ⁠ךְ֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “notice you with me,”

then they will say, ‘This {is} his wife

Quote: וְ⁠אָמְר֖וּ אִשְׁתּ֣⁠וֹ זֹ֑את (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote. Alternate translation: “they will know that you are my wife,”

and they will kill me but let you live

Quote: וְ⁠הָרְג֥וּ אֹתִ֖⁠י וְ⁠אֹתָ֥⁠ךְ יְחַיּֽוּ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Then they will kill me but let you live so that they can have you.”

Genesis 12:13

Please say

Quote: אִמְרִי נָ֖א (1)

Alternate translation: “So please tell them”

that} you {are} my sister

Quote: אֲחֹ֣תִ⁠י אָ֑תְּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

Consider whether an indirect quote or direct quote is best here in your language.

so that it will go well for me

Quote: לְמַ֨עַן֙ יִֽיטַב לִ֣⁠י (1)

Alternate translation: “so that I will be treated well” or “so that people will treat me well”

and my life will live because of you

Quote: וְ⁠חָיְתָ֥ה נַפְשִׁ֖⁠י בִּ⁠גְלָלֵֽ⁠ךְ (1)

For some languages it is not natural to include the phrase because of you here, because it repeats the same idea as for your sake in the previous clause. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “and my life will be spared by them.” or “and they will spare my life.” or “and they will let me live.”

Genesis 12:14

when Abram came into Egypt

Quote: כְּ⁠ב֥וֹא אַבְרָ֖ם מִצְרָ֑יְמָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Although Abram is in focus here, your translation should not sound like he was traveling alone. Alternate translation: “When Abram and his family entered the land of Egypt,”

then the Egyptians saw

Quote: וַ⁠יִּרְא֤וּ הַ⁠מִּצְרִים֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “the Egyptian people saw” or “the people living there saw”

the woman, that she {was} very beautiful

Quote: אֶת־הָ֣⁠אִשָּׁ֔ה כִּֽי־יָפָ֥ה הִ֖וא מְאֹֽד (1)

Alternate translation: “that the woman with him was indeed very beautiful.” or “that Sarai was indeed very beautiful.”

Genesis 12:15

And the officials of Pharaoh saw her

Quote: וַ⁠יִּרְא֤וּ אֹתָ⁠הּ֙ שָׂרֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The term officials is general and refers to leaders or rulers who were under Pharaoh and served him. Also, the term Pharaoh is an Egyptian title that refers to the king or ruler over Egypt. However, in the Old Testament, it is treated as a name (that frequently occurs with the title “king of Egypt”), so translators often transliterate Pharaoh (which is how other names in the Bible are normally treated). Some languages require an honorific title with the names of kings, for example, “King Pharaoh”. Decide how you will handle this in your translation. Alternate translation: “Some of the officers who ruled under the Egyptian king spotted her, so” or “When some officials of Pharaoh the king of Egypt saw her,”

so they praised her to Pharaoh

Quote: וַ⁠יְהַֽלְל֥וּ אֹתָ֖⁠הּ אֶל פַּרְעֹ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Alternate translation: “they told him how beautiful she was,”

and the woman was taken

Quote: וַ⁠תֻּקַּ֥ח הָ⁠אִשָּׁ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “and she was brought” or “So he had them bring Sarai”

into Pharaoh’s house

Quote: בֵּ֥ית פַּרְעֹֽה (1)

Alternate translation: “into his palace to be one of his wives.”

Genesis 12:16

Then he treated Abram well for her sake

Quote: וּ⁠לְ⁠אַבְרָ֥ם הֵיטִ֖יב בַּ⁠עֲבוּרָ֑⁠הּ (1)

Alternate translation: “Then Pharaoh treated Abram well because of her”

so that he had

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי ל֤⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Make sure it is clear in your translation who is being referred to here. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “and Abram acquired from him” or “and he gave him” or “He gave Abram”

flock{s} and herd{s

Quote: צֹאן וּ⁠בָקָר֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “flocks of sheep and herds of cattle,”

and male donkeys and male slaves and female slaves and female donkeys

Quote: וַ⁠חֲמֹרִ֔ים וַ⁠עֲבָדִים֙ וּ⁠שְׁפָחֹ֔ת וַ⁠אֲתֹנֹ֖ת (1)

Alternate translation: “as well as men and women servants, and male and female donkeys,”

and camels

Quote: וּ⁠גְמַלִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

If camels are not known in your language area, you could include a picture of a camel in your translation. You could also describe it in the text or in a footnote. Alternate translation: “and larger load-bearing animals called camels.”

Genesis 12:17

But Yahweh struck Pharaoh and his house

Quote: וַ⁠יְנַגַּ֨ע יְהוָ֧ה אֶת פַּרְעֹ֛ה & וְ⁠אֶת בֵּית֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics

See how you translated Pharaoh in verse 15. You could translate it differently in different contexts. Do what is clear and natural in your language in each context. Alternate translation: “Then Yahweh struck the king and the people in his household” or “Then Yahweh caused King Pharaoh and the people in his household to get very sick”

with} great plagues

Quote: נְגָעִ֥ים גְּדֹלִ֖ים (1)

Alternate translation: “with severe diseases”

on account of Sarai the wife of Abram

Quote: עַל דְּבַ֥ר שָׂרַ֖י אֵ֥שֶׁת אַבְרָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For many languages it is clearer and more natural to put this clause first in this verse and say, “But since King Pharaoh had taken Abram’s wife Sarai, Yahweh afflicted the king and his family with severe illnesses.” Do what is best in your language

Genesis 12:18

So Pharaoh called

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֤א פַרְעֹה֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “So King Pharaoh sent for Abram” or “Then Pharaoh summoned Abram before him” or “Then the king sent for Abram to come to him”

and said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֕אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Make sure that the way you translate this quote margin fits with the way that you translate the following quote. Alternate translation: “and asked him,”

What {is} this you have done to me

Quote: מַה זֹּ֖את עָשִׂ֣יתָ לִּ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Pharaoh uses rhetorical questions in verses 18 and 19 to express his anger at what Abram had done; he does not expect Abram to answer him. Some languages must use statements or exclamations here instead. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Why have you treated me so badly?”

Why did you not tell me that she {was} your wife

Quote: לָ֚⁠מָּה לֹא הִגַּ֣דְתָּ לִּ֔⁠י כִּ֥י אִשְׁתְּ⁠ךָ֖ הִֽוא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Alternate translation: “You should have informed me that she is your wife!”

Genesis 12:19

Why did you say, ‘She {is} my sister

Quote: לָ⁠מָ֤ה אָמַ֨רְתָּ֙ אֲחֹ֣תִ⁠י הִ֔וא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Pharaoh uses this rhetorical question to scold Abram and express his anger at him. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language. Also consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote. Alternate translation: “Why did you say that she is your sister,” or “You should not have pretended that she is your sister,”

so that I took her to me as a wife

Quote: וָ⁠אֶקַּ֥ח אֹתָ֛⁠הּ לִ֖⁠י לְ⁠אִשָּׁ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For some languages it is clearer and more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “so that I chose her to be a wife!” or “I believed you and took her to be my wife!”

Now then

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֕ה (1)

Alternate translation: “Now therefore,”

behold your wife

Quote: הִנֵּ֥ה אִשְׁתְּ⁠ךָ֖ (1)

Alternate translation: “here is your wife back.”

Genesis 12:20

Then Pharaoh commanded

Quote: וַ⁠יְצַ֥ו & פַּרְעֹ֖ה (1)

Consider again how you translated Pharaoh in verses 15-18, 20. It may be helpful to read this section aloud to make sure it is clear and natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Then King Pharaoh gave orders to” or “Then the Egyptian king ordered” or “Then the king of Egypt ordered”

his men

Quote: אֲנָשִׁ֑ים (1)

Alternate translation: “some of his men”

concerning him

Quote: עָלָ֛י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Throughout this verse, make sure it is clear in your translation who is being referred to. Alternate translation: “about him”

and they sent him away

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְשַׁלְּח֥וּ אֹת֛⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Alternate translation: “so they forced him to leave their country,” or “so they expelled him from Egypt,”

and everything that {belonged} to him

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת כָּל אֲשֶׁר לֽ⁠וֹ (1)

This included Abram’s slaves, animals, and everything else that he owned. Alternate translation: “and all that he had” or “all his possessions.”

Genesis 13

Genesis 13:1

Then Abram went up from Egypt

Quote: וַ⁠יַּעַל֩ אַבְרָ֨ם מִ⁠מִּצְרַ֜יִם (1)

The Negev Wilderness (or Desert) is northeast in direction from Egypt and is higher in elevation. Compare how you translated “down” in Gen 12:10 when Abram traveled in the opposite direction. Alternate translation: “So Abram went northeast from the country of Egypt,” or “Then Abram left the land of Egypt,”

he and his wife

Quote: ה֠וּא וְ⁠אִשְׁתּ֧⁠וֹ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “taking with him his wife”

and everything that {belonged} to him

Quote: וְ⁠כָל אֲשֶׁר ל֛⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “and everything that he had,”

and Lot with him

Quote: וְ⁠ל֥וֹט עִמּ֖⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “as well as his nephew Lot,” or “and his nephew Lot went with him”

to the Negev

Quote: הַ⁠נֶּֽגְבָּ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For many languages it is more natural to put this phrase earlier in this verse and say, “Then Abram went up from Egypt and traveled back to the Negev Wilderness/Desert, along with his wife and everything that belonged to him. His nephew Lot also went with them.” Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated Negev in Gen 12:9, and see the note about that there. Alternate translation: “and they all went back to the Negev Desert.”

Genesis 13:2

And Abram

Quote: וְ⁠אַבְרָ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background

Consider what is the best way in your language to introduce this background information about Abram. Alternate translation: “Now” or “By this time Abram”

was} very wealthy

Quote: כָּבֵ֣ד מְאֹ֑ד (1)

Alternate translation: “had become very wealthy”

in livestock

Quote: בַּ⁠מִּקְנֶ֕ה (1)

The term livestock includes all kinds of domestic animals, such as cattle, sheep, goats, camels and donkeys. Alternate translation: “with many livestock”

in silver, and in gold

Quote: בַּ⁠כֶּ֖סֶף וּ⁠בַ⁠זָּהָֽב (1)

In this context, “silver and gold” includes the metals themselves as well as objects made out of the metals, but not coins (since coins did not exist at that time). See how you translated gold in Gen 2:11-12.

Genesis 13:3

from the Negev

Quote: מִ⁠נֶּ֖גֶב (1)

See how you translated the Negev in verse 1. Alternate translation: “From the Southern Desert”

Then he went on his journeys

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֨לֶךְ֙ לְ⁠מַסָּעָ֔י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Abram represents his whole family here, and it is assumed that they are traveling with him. Consider whether or not you need to make them explicit in your language. Alternate translation: “Abram and his family moved from place to place northward” or “Abram and his family continued traveling northward”

as far as Bethel

Quote: וְ⁠עַד בֵּֽית אֵ֑ל (1)

Alternate translation: “until he came to the town of Bethel,”

to the place where his tents had been

Quote: עַד הַ⁠מָּק֗וֹם אֲשֶׁר הָ֨יָה שָׁ֤ם אָֽהֳלוֹ֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “to the site where they had camped in tents” or “where he had pitched his tents”

at the beginning

Quote: בַּ⁠תְּחִלָּ֔ה (1)

Alternate translation: “previously,” or “the first time he was there,”

between Bethel and Ai

Quote: בֵּ֥ין בֵּֽית אֵ֖ל וּ⁠בֵ֥ין הָ⁠עָֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to put this phrase earlier in the sentence and say, “Then from the Negev Desert Abram and his family continued traveling northward until they came to the place between the towns of Bethel and Ai where they had camped in tents before.” Do what is best in your language. Also, be consistent here with how you spelled Bethel and Ai in Gen 12:8.

Genesis 13:4

to the place of the altar that he had made there at first

Quote: אֶל מְקוֹם֙ הַ⁠מִּזְבֵּ֔חַ אֲשֶׁר עָ֥שָׂה שָׁ֖ם בָּ⁠רִאשֹׁנָ֑ה (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also see how you translated altar in Gen 8:20 and 12:7-8. Alternate translation: “to the same site where he had made an altar before” or “That is the same site where he had first made an altar,”

and there Abram called on the name of Yahweh

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֥א שָׁ֛ם אַבְרָ֖ם בְּ⁠שֵׁ֥ם יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated called on the name of Yahweh in Gen 12:8. Alternate translation: “There again Abram sacrificed animals on that altar and addressed Yahweh by his name as he praised him.” or “So Abram again used that altar there and praised Yahweh by name.” or “… praised Yahweh.”

Genesis 13:5

Now Lot, who was traveling with Abram, also had

Quote: וְ⁠גַם לְ⁠ל֔וֹט הַ⁠הֹלֵ֖ךְ אֶת אַבְרָ֑ם הָיָ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background

The word Now introduces more background information for the new episode. For some languages it is more natural to leave Now implied and just use a paragraph break. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Lot was traveling with his uncle Abram, and he and his family also had”

flock{s} and herd{s

Quote: צֹאן וּ⁠בָקָ֖ר (1)

See how you translated this phrase in Gen 12:16. Alternate translation: “flocks of sheep and goats and herds of cattle”

and tents

Quote: וְ⁠אֹהָלִֽים (1)

Alternate translation: “and many tents.”

Genesis 13:6

But the land could not support them

Quote: וְ⁠לֹא־נָשָׂ֥א אֹתָ֛⁠ם הָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “As a result, there was not enough land to provide them all with enough food and water” or “In fact, there was not enough land to provide enough food and water for both families and their animals”

while they stayed together

Quote: לָ⁠שֶׁ֣בֶת יַחְדָּ֑ו (1)

Alternate translation: “if they lived near each other,” or “if they lived in the same region,”

because their possessions were great

Quote: כִּֽי הָיָ֤ה רְכוּשָׁ⁠ם֙ רָ֔ב (1)

The phrase their possessions especially refers to their livestock, which required much land to graze on and much water to drink, and probably also includes their many servants. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “because their belongings were so abundant that” or “because they owned so many servants and livestock that” or “They each owned so many servants and livestock that”

so that they were not able to stay together

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֥א יָֽכְל֖וּ לָ⁠שֶׁ֥בֶת יַחְדָּֽו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

See how you translated a similar phrase earlier in this verse. For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of the clauses in this sentence and say, “In fact, they each/both owned so many servants and livestock/animals that they could not live in the same area. There was not enough land to provide/produce the amount of food and water that they all needed.” Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated stayed together earlier in this verse. Alternate translation: “they could not all live near each other.” or “it was not possible for them to all live in the same area”

Genesis 13:7

Then there was

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי (1)

Alternate translation: “In fact,”

Then there was strife

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי רִ֗יב (1)

The Hebrew word for strife is general in meaning and can include arguing and fighting. Some languages have an idiom for this that fits well here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “there was arguing” or “quarreling erupted”

between the herdsmen of Abram’s livestock and the herdsmen of Lot’s livestock

Quote: בֵּ֚ין רֹעֵ֣י מִקְנֵֽה אַבְרָ֔ם וּ⁠בֵ֖ין רֹעֵ֣י מִקְנֵה ל֑וֹט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be clearer and more natural to change the order of the clauses in this sentence and say, “Then the men who were taking care of Abram’s livestock and the men who were taking care of Lot’s livestock started to argue with each other.” Do what is best in your language.

And the Canaanites

Quote: וְ⁠הַֽ⁠כְּנַעֲנִי֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “Adding to that problem was the fact that”

And the Canaanites and the Perizzites

Quote: וְ⁠הַֽ⁠כְּנַעֲנִי֙ וְ⁠הַ⁠פְּרִזִּ֔י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

See how you translated the names of people groups in Gen 10, and see how you translated the Canaanites in Gen 12:6. Alternate translation: “the Canaanite people and the Perizzite people” or “the descendants of Canaan and Perez”

were living in the land

Quote: יֹשֵׁ֥ב בָּ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “were also living in the area”

then

Quote: אָ֖ז (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it is more natural to put this time phrase earlier in the sentence and say, “… at that time the Canaanites …” Do what is best in your language.

Genesis 13:8

So Abram said to Lot

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר אַבְרָ֜ם אֶל ל֗וֹט (1)

Alternate translation: “Then one day Abram said to Lot,”

Please do not let there be

Quote: אַל נָ֨א תְהִ֤י (1)

Alternate translation: “Please, we should not allow” or “We need to do something so that there is not any”

strife

Quote: מְרִיבָה֙ (1)

See how you translated strife in verse 7. Alternate translation: “arguing”

between me and you

Quote: בֵּינִ֣⁠י וּ⁠בֵינֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)

Alternate translation: “between you and me,” or “between us,”

or between my herdsmen and your herdsmen

Quote: וּ⁠בֵ֥ין רֹעַ֖⁠י וּ⁠בֵ֣ין רֹעֶ֑י⁠ךָ (1)

See how you translated herdsmen in verse 7. Alternate translation: “or between the men tending my livestock and the men tending your livestock,” or “or between our herdsmen,”

because we {are} men, brothers

Quote: כִּֽי אֲנָשִׁ֥ים אַחִ֖ים אֲנָֽחְנוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

Abram and Lot were close relatives, not actual brothers. Also, for some languages it may be better to put this clause earlier in this verse and say, “Please, since we are close relatives, we need to do something so that you and I and our herdsmen will not argue.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “because we are men who are also relatives.” or “because we are close relatives.”

Genesis 13:9

Is not the whole land before you

Quote: הֲ⁠לֹ֤א כָל הָ⁠אָ֨רֶץ֙ לְ⁠פָנֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Abram is using a rhetorical question to emphasize his point. He does not expect an answer from Lot. If that is not clear, you can translate this as a statement. Alternate translation: “You can choose to live anywhere in this entire land.”

Please separate from me

Quote: הִפָּ֥רֶד נָ֖א מֵ⁠עָלָ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

Make sure it is clear in your translation of verse 9 that Abram is being kind to Lot, not mean or rude.

If {you go to} the left

Quote: אִם הַ⁠שְּׂמֹ֣אל (1)

Alternate translation: “if you decide to live in the land to our left,”

then I will go right

Quote: וְ⁠אֵימִ֔נָה (1)

Alternate translation: “then I will choose the land to the right,” or “then I will live in the land to our right,”

or if {you go to} the right

Quote: וְ⁠אִם הַ⁠יָּמִ֖ין (1)

For some languages, it may be more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Or if you decide to live in the land to our right,”

then I will go left

Quote: וְ⁠אַשְׂמְאִֽילָה (1)

Alternate translation: “then I will choose the land to the left.” or “then I will live in the land to our left.”

Genesis 13:10

Then Lot lifted his eyes

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשָּׂא־ל֣וֹט אֶת־עֵינָ֗י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idioms

Alternate translation: “So Lot looked all around” or “Lot looked around carefully”

and saw all the plain of the Jordan as you go {toward} Zoar, that all of it

Quote: וַ⁠יַּרְא֙ אֶת־כָּל־כִּכַּ֣ר הַ⁠יַּרְדֵּ֔ן כִּ֥י כֻלָּ֖⁠הּ & בֹּאֲ⁠כָ֖ה צֹֽעַר (1)

The Jordan Plain is the wide, flat valley where the Jordan River flows between the Sea of Galilee and the Dead Sea. Alternate translation: “and he observed that the whole Jordan River Valley, all the way to the town of Zoar,”

was} well-watered

Quote: מַשְׁקֶ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “had a lot of water,”

like Yahweh’s garden

Quote: כְּ⁠גַן יְהוָה֙ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also see how you translated garden in Gen 3:23-24. This phrase refers to the Garden of Eden. You could put that information in a footnote.

like the land of Egypt

Quote: כְּ⁠אֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֔יִם (1)

Alternate translation: “and like the country of Egypt,”

before Yahweh destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י שַׁחֵ֣ת יְהוָ֗ה אֶת סְדֹם֙ וְ⁠אֶת עֲמֹרָ֔ה (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.

Genesis 13:11

So Lot chose for himself all the plain of the Jordan

Quote: וַ⁠יִּבְחַר ל֣⁠וֹ ל֗וֹט אֵ֚ת כָּל כִּכַּ֣ר הַ⁠יַּרְדֵּ֔ן (1)

See how you translated plain of the Jordan in verse 10. Alternate translation: “Then Lot chose the whole Jordan River Plain for himself,” or “Then Lot decided to live in the valley that surrounded the Jordan River,”

and Lot traveled

Quote: וַ⁠יִּסַּ֥ע ל֖וֹט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also consider whether it is better in your language to use Lot’s name or a pronoun to refer to him here. Alternate translation: “and he moved” or “Then Lot left Abram and moved”

to the east

Quote: מִ⁠קֶּ֑דֶם (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “to/toward the east to live there” or “eastward” or (2) “from the east”

and they separated from each other

Quote: וַ⁠יִּפָּ֣רְד֔וּ אִ֖ישׁ מֵ⁠עַ֥ל אָחִֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also consider what is the best way to refer to Abram and Lot at this point in the paragraph. Alternate translation: “So in this way they lived separately from each other.” or “That is how Abram and Lot ended up living in separate places.”

Genesis 13:12

Abram settled

Quote: אַבְרָ֖ם יָשַׁ֣ב (1)

Alternate translation: “Abram settled where he was” or “Abram continued to live”

in the land of Canaan

Quote: בְּ⁠אֶֽרֶץ כְּנָ֑עַן (1)

Alternate translation: “in that part of the land of Canaan,”

and Lot settled

Quote: וְ⁠ל֗וֹט יָשַׁב֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “but Lot lived”

in the cities of the plain

Quote: בְּ⁠עָרֵ֣י הַ⁠כִּכָּ֔ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

As Lot traveled, he probably lived in several different cities in the Jordan River Valley until he eventually settled in the city of Sodom (Gen 14:12). Alternate translation: “in another part of the land in the cities of the Jordan River valley” or “in another part of the land in the cities in the valley surrounding the Jordan River”

and moved his tents as far as

Quote: וַ⁠יֶּאֱהַ֖ל עַד (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “He eventually pitched his tents in” or “and eventually moved his tents near”

Sodom

Quote: סְדֹֽם (1)

Alternate translation: “the city of Sodom and settled there.”

Genesis 13:13

Now the men of Sodom

Quote: וְ⁠אַנְשֵׁ֣י סְדֹ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The conjunction “Now/But” introduces background information that builds suspense for what happens to the people of Sodom later in Genesis (chapters 18-19). Consider what is the best way to begin this verse in your language. Also, this phrase probably has a general meaning here that includes all the people of Sodom, especially the men.

were} exceedingly wicked

Quote: רָעִ֖ים & מְאֹֽד (1)

Alternate translation: “were very evil”

and sinful against Yahweh

Quote: וְ⁠חַטָּאִ֑ים לַ⁠יהוָ֖ה (1)

Some translations treat the phrase wicked and sinful as a hendiadys that means “wicked sinners”, but it is best to keep the two parts of this phrase separate (like the Hebrew text does) to emphasize the people’s evil character and behavior. Alternate translation: “were terrible sinners against Yahweh.” or “were always rebelling against Yahweh.”

Genesis 13:14

Lift up your eyes please

Quote: שָׂ֣א נָ֤א עֵינֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

See how you translated the idiom “lift … eyes” in verse 10. The Hebrew word for please is used to show politeness when making a proposal or to soften a command. It can also be translated “now” or omitted, depending on the context. Your translation here should not sound like God is begging. Alternate translation: “Look around now”

from the place where you {are

Quote: מִן הַ⁠מָּק֖וֹם אֲשֶׁר אַתָּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it is more natural to put this phrase first in this quote and say, “From where you are standing, look all around you. Look …” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “from where you are standing,”

and look

Quote: וּ⁠רְאֵ֔ה (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.

northward and southward and eastward and westward

Quote: צָפֹ֥נָ⁠ה וָ⁠נֶ֖גְבָּ⁠ה וָ⁠קֵ֥דְמָ⁠ה וָ⁠יָֽמָּ⁠ה (1)

See how you translated “east” and “west” in Gen 12:8. Alternate translation: “to the north, south, east, and west,” or “in all directions: north, south, east, and west,” or “around you in every direction,”

Genesis 13:15

because all the land that you see

Quote: כִּ֧י אֶת כָּל הָ⁠אָ֛רֶץ אֲשֶׁר אַתָּ֥ה רֹאֶ֖ה (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “All that land, as far as you can see,”

I will give to you and to your offspring

Quote: לְ⁠ךָ֣ אֶתְּנֶ֑⁠נָּה וּֽ⁠לְ⁠זַרְעֲ⁠ךָ֖ (1)

See how you translated offspring in Gen 12:7.

forever

Quote: עַד עוֹלָֽם (1)

Alternate translation: “to possess forever.”

Genesis 13:16

And I will make your offspring

Quote: וְ⁠שַׂמְתִּ֥י אֶֽת זַרְעֲ⁠ךָ֖ (1)

Alternate translation: “Besides that, I will also cause your descendants to be” or “In fact, I will also give you so many offspring that they will be”

like the dust of the earth

Quote: כַּ⁠עֲפַ֣ר הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)

See how you translated “dust/dirt” in Gen 3:19. Alternate translation: “as numerous as the specks of dirt on the earth,”

which if anyone were able to count

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר אִם יוּכַ֣ל אִ֗ישׁ לִ⁠מְנוֹת֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary

The Hebrew text has a contrary-to-fact clause here which implies that it is impossible for anyone to count all the specks of dust. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: “Just as it is impossible to count” or “Just as no one is able to count”

the dust of the earth

Quote: אֶת־עֲפַ֣ר הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ (1)

For some languages it is not natural to repeat “of/on the earth” here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “all the dirt specks” or “how many specks of dirt there are,”

your offspring could also be counted

Quote: גַּֽם זַרְעֲ⁠ךָ֖ יִמָּנֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of the last two clauses and say, “No one will be able to count how many offspring/descendants you have, just as no one can count how many specks/particles of dust/dirt there are.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “so it will be impossible to count all your offspring because they will be so numerous.” or “no one will be able to count how many descendants you have.”

Genesis 13:17

Get up and walk

Quote: ק֚וּם הִתְהַלֵּ֣ךְ (1)

The phrase “get up” may imply that Abram was sitting down, but it probably just means that God is telling him to start walking through the land. Alternate translation: “Now go walk”

through the land

Quote: בָּ⁠אָ֔רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “throughout the land in all directions,”

through its length and through its width

Quote: לְ⁠אָרְכָּ֖⁠הּ וּ⁠לְ⁠רָחְבָּ֑⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

The phrase “its length … its width” also includes all the area of land in between. Consider what is the best way to translate this merism in your language. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “including its length and its width, and look it over,” or “Walk throughout the entire land and look it over,”

because to you I am giving it

Quote: כִּ֥י לְ⁠ךָ֖ אֶתְּנֶֽ⁠נָּה (1)

In the Hebrew text, the phrase to you is before the verb to emphasize Abram. In your translation, communicate this emphasis in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “because you are the one I am giving it to.”

Genesis 13:18

So Abram moved his tents

Quote: וַ⁠יֶּאֱהַ֣ל אַבְרָ֗ם (1)

Abram obeyed God, but we do not know if he did everything that God commanded in verse 17 before he moved his tents near Hebron (verse 18), or if moving his tents was the first step in obeying what God told him to do. It is best to keep this general in your translation (as the Hebrew text does). Also see how you translated the phrase moved his tents in verse 12. Alternate translation: “Then Abram did what Yahweh commanded and moved his tents” or “Abram obeyed Yahweh and relocated his tents”

and went and settled

Quote: וַ⁠יָּבֹ֛א וַ⁠יֵּ֛שֶׁב (1)

Alternate translation: “and went to live”

by the terebinth trees of Mamre

Quote: בְּ⁠אֵלֹנֵ֥י מַמְרֵ֖א (1)

See how you translated terebinth in Gen 12:6. Alternate translation: “near the terebinth trees on the land owned by a man named Mamre,”

and there he built an altar

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽבֶן שָׁ֥ם מִזְבֵּ֖חַ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 12:7-8.

to Yahweh

Quote: לַֽ⁠יהוָֽה (1)

See how you translated this phrase in Gen 12:7 and how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 8:20 and 12:8. Alternate translation: “and offered sacrifices on it to thank and worship Yahweh.”

Genesis 14

Genesis 14:1

Now it happened in the days of

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֗י בִּ⁠ימֵי֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “Then it happened that during the time when”

Amraphel king of

Quote: אַמְרָפֶ֣ל מֶֽלֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-keyterms

The term king refers to the highest ruler or leader over a kingdom, which at that time was often just a city, a small region or a people group. Translate this with the best word for that in your language. Also see how you translated Shinar in Gen 10:10; 11:2. Alternate translation: “Amraphel was the ruler over” or “King Amraphel was ruling”

Shinar

Quote: שִׁנְעָ֔ר (1)

Alternate translation: “the region of Shinar,”

Arioch king of

Quote: אַרְי֖וֹךְ מֶ֣לֶךְ (1)

It is not known whether Ellasar was the name of a city or the name of a kingdom that had one or more cities. Alternate translation: “Arioch was the ruler over” or “King Arioch was ruling”

Ellasar

Quote: אֶלָּסָ֑ר (1)

Alternate translation: “the kingdom of Ellasar,”

Kedorlaomer king of

Quote: כְּדָרְלָעֹ֨מֶר֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

In Hebrew this king’s name is pronounced Kedorlaomer. However in many translations it is spelled “Chedorlaomer”. Be consistent with your choice throughout this chapter. Also, Elam refers to the land where the descendants of Shem’s son Elam lived (Gen 10:22). Alternate translation: “Kedorlaomer was the ruler over” or “King Kedorlaomer was ruling”

Elam

Quote: עֵילָ֔ם (1)

Alternate translation: “the land of the Elamites,”

and Tidal king of

Quote: וְ⁠תִדְעָ֖ל מֶ֥לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Most translation teams transliterate the name “Goyim” (as they do other names in the Bible). Some translations translate its meaning and say, “the nations/peoples.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “and Tidal was the ruler over” or “and King Tidal was ruling”

the Goiim

Quote: גּוֹיִֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Most translation teams transliterate the name “Goyim” (as they do other names in the Bible). Some translations translate its meaning and say “the nations/peoples”. Do what is best in your language.

Genesis 14:2

they made war against

Quote: עָשׂ֣וּ מִלְחָמָ֗ה אֶת־ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here, which depends on how you translated verse 1. Alternate translation: “those four kings became allies and made war” or “those four kings joined forces and went to war”

Bera king of

Quote: בֶּ֨רַע֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “Bera who was the ruler over” or “King Bera who was ruling”

and against Birsha king of

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת בִּרְשַׁ֖ע מֶ֣לֶךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “Birsha who was the ruler over” or “King Birsha who was ruling”

Shinab king of

Quote: שִׁנְאָ֣ב מֶ֣לֶךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “Shinab who was the ruler over” or “King Shinab who was ruling”

and Shemeber king of

Quote: וְ⁠שֶׁמְאֵ֨בֶר֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “Shemeber who was the ruler over” or “King Shemeber who was ruling”

and the king of

Quote: וּ⁠מֶ֥לֶךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “and the ruler over” or “and the ruler who was ruling”

which {is} Zoar

Quote: הִיא צֹֽעַר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This town is first mentioned in Gen 13:10, but it was not actually named Zoar until later (Gen 19:22). You may want to put that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: “which is now called Zoar.” or “which was later called Zoar.” or “that is, Zoar.”

Genesis 14:3

All these

Quote: כָּל אֵ֨לֶּה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Consider whether it is necessary to make it explicit in your translation that these refers to the five kings just mentioned in verse 2. Alternate translation: “These five kings all”

joined together

Quote: חָֽבְר֔וּ (1)

Alternate translation: “combined their forces as partners and fought against the four kings”

which {is now} the Sea of Salt

Quote: ה֖וּא יָ֥ם הַ⁠מֶּֽלַח (1)

The Hebrew word for “sea/ocean” can also refer to a large lake. The Salt Sea, also known as the Dead Sea, is about 31 miles (50 kilometers) long and 9 miles (15 kilometers) wide. Use a term in your language for a body of water that size. Alternate translation: “which later became the Salt Sea.”

Genesis 14:4

For} twelve years

Quote: שְׁתֵּ֤ים עֶשְׂרֵה֙ שָׁנָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

This paragraph (verses 4-9) is a flashback that tells the events that led up to the war (verses 1-3). Consider what is the best way in your language to introduce this background information. Alternate translation: “This is what happened: For twelve years” or “This is why they were fighting: During twelve years”

they had served

Quote: עָבְד֖וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to the five kings (listed in verse 2) at this point in the paragraph. Alternate translation: “the five kings had paid taxes to” or “the five kings had been subject to” or “they had been ruled by”

Kedorlaomer

Quote: אֶת כְּדָרְלָעֹ֑מֶר (1)

Be consistent here with how you spelled this name in verse 1. Alternate translation: “King Kedorlaomer”

but the thirteenth year

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁלֹשׁ עֶשְׂרֵ֥ה שָׁנָ֖ה (1)

Alternate translation: “but sometime in the thirteenth year”

they rebelled

Quote: מָרָֽדוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “they started to revolt against him.”

Genesis 14:5

Then in the fourteenth year

Quote: וּ⁠בְ⁠אַרְבַּע֩ עֶשְׂרֵ֨ה שָׁנָ֜ה (1)

Alternate translation: “Then sometime in the fourteenth year,”

Kedorlaomer

Quote: כְדָרְלָעֹ֗מֶר (1)

Alternate translation: “King Kedorlaomer”

who {were} with him

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר אִתּ֔⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “who were allied with him” or “who were his partners”

went

Quote: בָּ֣א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Verses 5-7 list enemies of King Kedorlaomer that are in addition to the five kings mentioned in verses 2-4. Consider whether or not to make it explicit in your translation here that they were fighting all their enemies. Alternate translation: “combined their armies and went to fight against all their enemies”

and struck

Quote: וַ⁠יַּכּ֤וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “First, they conquered”

the Rephaim

Quote: אֶת רְפָאִים֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

See how you translated the names of people groups in Gen 10:4, 13-18, and see the note about that at 10:4. Alternate translation: “the Repha people”

and the Zuzim

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת הַ⁠זּוּזִ֖ים (1)

Alternate translation: “and the Zuzites” or “and the Zuz people”

the Emim

Quote: הָֽ⁠אֵימִ֔ים (1)

Alternate translation: “the Em people”

Genesis 14:6

and the Horites

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת הַ⁠חֹרִ֖י (1)

Alternate translation: “and the Hor people”

in their hill country of Seir

Quote: בְּ⁠הַרְרָ֣⁠ם שֵׂעִ֑יר (1)

Alternate translation: “who lived in the hill country of the region of Seir” or “who lived in the Seir Hills”

which {is} by

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֖ר עַל (1)

Alternate translation: “which is located beside” or “which is on the edge of”

the wilderness

Quote: הַ⁠מִּדְבָּֽר (1)

A wilderness is a dry, rocky area where few plants grow and few people live. See how you translated “wilderness/desert” in Gen 12:9 and 13:1, 3 (if you made that explicit in those verses). Alternate translation: “a desert.”

Genesis 14:7

Then they turned back

Quote: וַ֠⁠יָּשֻׁבוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “Next the four kings and their armies”

Then they turned back

Quote: וַ֠⁠יָּשֻׁבוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “started to return home”

which {is} Kadesh

Quote: הִ֣וא קָדֵ֔שׁ (1)

See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 2. Alternate translation: “which is now called Kadesh,” or “which was later called Kadesh,” or “that is, Kadesh,”

and they struck

Quote: וַ⁠יַּכּ֕וּ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “They defeated”

the entire territory of the Amalekites

Quote: אֶֽת כָּל שְׂדֵ֖ה הָ⁠עֲמָלֵקִ֑י (1)

Alternate translation: “the whole area where the Amalekites lived” or “… where the Amalek people group lived”

and also the Amorites

Quote: וְ⁠גַם֙ אֶת הָ֣⁠אֱמֹרִ֔י (1)

Be consistent here with how you translated Amorites in Gen 10:16. Alternate translation: “as well as the Amor people group,”

Genesis 14:8

Then … went out

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּצֵ֨א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Verse 8 is talking about the same battle that is mentioned in verse 2, except it leaves out the names of the kings. Make sure in your translation that it does not sound like a different battle.

the king of Sodom, and the king of Gomorrah, and the king of Admah, and the king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela

Quote: מֶֽלֶךְ סְדֹ֜ם וּ⁠מֶ֣לֶךְ עֲמֹרָ֗ה וּ⁠מֶ֤לֶךְ אַדְמָה֙ וּ⁠מֶ֣לֶךְ צְבוֹיִ֔ם וּ⁠מֶ֥לֶךְ בֶּ֖לַע (1)

Be consistent in verse 8 with how you spelled the names of these cities in verse 2 and in Gen 10:19. Alternate translation: “the kings over the cities of Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, and Bela,”

which {is} Zoar

Quote: הִוא צֹ֑עַר (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 2. Alternate translation: “which is now called Zoar,” or “that is, Zoar,”

Then … went out

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּצֵ֨א (1)

Alternate translation: “went out with their armies”

into the Valley of Siddim

Quote: בְּ⁠עֵ֖מֶק הַ⁠שִּׂדִּֽים (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 3.

and arranged themselves for battle

Quote: וַ⁠יַּֽעַרְכ֤וּ אִתָּ⁠ם֙ מִלְחָמָ֔ה (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “and assembled/prepared/positioned themselves for battle” or “and got ready to fight” or (2) “and joined/united together in battle”

Genesis 14:9

against Kedorlaomer king of

Quote: אֵ֣ת כְּדָרְלָעֹ֜מֶר מֶ֣לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The same kings (and the places they ruled) that are listed here in verse 9 are listed in verse 1, but in a different order. Be consistent here with how you spelled the names there. Alternate translation: “against Kedorlaomer who was the ruler over” or “against King Kedorlaomer who was ruling”

Elam

Quote: עֵילָ֗ם (1)

Alternate translation: “the region of Elam,”

and Tidal king of

Quote: וְ⁠תִדְעָל֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “Tidal who was the ruler over” or “King Tidal who was ruling”

Goiim

Quote: גּוֹיִ֔ם (1)

Be consistent here with how you translated this people group name in verse 1. Alternate translation: “the Goyim people,”

and Amraphel king of

Quote: וְ⁠אַמְרָפֶל֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “Amraphel who was the ruler over” or “King Amraphel who was ruling”

Shinar

Quote: שִׁנְעָ֔ר (1)

Alternate translation: “the region of Shinar,”

and Arioch king of

Quote: וְ⁠אַרְי֖וֹךְ מֶ֣לֶךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “and Arioch who was the ruler over” or “and King Arioch who was ruling”

Ellasar

Quote: אֶלָּסָ֑ר (1)

Alternate translation: “the city of Ellasar,”

four kings against

Quote: אַרְבָּעָ֥ה מְלָכִ֖ים אֶת (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “It was four kings who started fighting against” or “Then those four kings attacked”

the five

Quote: הַ⁠חֲמִשָּֽׁה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

It is implied in verse 10 that the four kings had started defeating the five kings. If that is not clear, you could make that explicit here.

Genesis 14:10

Now the Valley of Siddim {had} many tar pits

Quote: וְ⁠עֵ֣מֶק הַ⁠שִׂדִּ֗ים בֶּֽאֱרֹ֤ת בֶּאֱרֹת֙ חֵמָ֔ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background

The word Now indicates a change of topic and introduces background information. For some languages it is more natural to omit that word and just use a paragraph break. Do what is best in your language. Also be consistent here with how you translated the Valley of Siddim in verses 3 and 8, and how you translated tar in Gen 11:3. Alternate translation: “The Siddim Valley was full of tar pits,” or “There were many tar pits in the Siddim Valley,”

and the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fled

Quote: וַ⁠יָּנֻ֛סוּ מֶֽלֶךְ סְדֹ֥ם וַ⁠עֲמֹרָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

It is assumed here that the kings were accompanied by their armies. If that is not understood, you could make that explicit in your translation. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “As the kings of the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah and their armies were running away from the battle,”

and they fell there

Quote: וַ⁠יִּפְּלוּ שָׁ֑מָּ⁠ה (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “they died there in the tar pits.” or “some of their soldiers/men were killed there in the tar pits.” or “they fell into the tar pits and died.” or (2) “jumped into the tar pits to hide.” Notice that the king of Sodom is still alive in verse 17, so the pronoun they probably does not include him here, depending on how you translate fell there.

And those who remained

Quote: וְ⁠הַ⁠נִּשְׁאָרִ֖ים (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “while/but those who were left” or “Those who escaped” or (2) “But the other three kings and their armies/soldiers”. Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the previous sentence.

fled

Quote: נָּֽסוּ (1)

See how you translated fled earlier in this verse.

to the hill country

Quote: הֶ֥רָ⁠ה (1)

See how you translated hill country in verse 6. Alternate translation: “to the hills to hide.”

Genesis 14:11

Then they took

Quote: וַ֠⁠יִּקְחוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to the four kings at this point in the paragraph. Alternate translation: “Then the four kings took by force”

all the possessions of Sodom and Gomorrah

Quote: אֶת כָּל רְכֻ֨שׁ סְדֹ֧ם וַ⁠עֲמֹרָ֛ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The phrase Sodom and Gomorrah refers here to the people who lived in those cities. Consider what is the best way to refer to those people here in your language. Alternate translation: “all the possessions from the people of the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah”

and all their food

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת כָּל אָכְלָ֖⁠ם (1)

Alternate translation: “even all their food,” or “as well as all their food,”

and left

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּלֵֽכוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “and left with it all.” or “and carried it all away with them.” or “and went on their way.”

Genesis 14:12

And they took

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְח֨וּ (1)

Alternate translation: “They also took with them” or “They also carried away” or “The four kings also captured”

since he was living in Sodom

Quote: וְ⁠ה֥וּא יֹשֵׁ֖ב בִּ⁠סְדֹֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be more clearer or more natural to put this phrase first in this sentence and say, “Since Abram’s nephew Lot was also living in the city of Sodom, the four kings took/captured him too, along with his possessions.”

Genesis 14:13

Then someone who escaped came

Quote: וַ⁠יָּבֹא֙ הַ⁠פָּלִ֔יט (1)

Alternate translation: “Then someone from Sodom escaped from the battle and came”

and reported to Abram the Hebrew

Quote: וַ⁠יַּגֵּ֖ד לְ⁠אַבְרָ֣ם הָ⁠עִבְרִ֑י (1)

The Hebrew people are the descendants of Abram (Abraham), and they were named after his ancestor Eber, who was Shem’s great grandson (Genesis 11:10-26). Some of this information could be put in a footnote.

And he

Quote: וְ⁠הוּא֩ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background

This phrase introduces background information about Abram as part of the setting for what happens next. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: “Now at that time he” or “At that time he”

was living by the terebinth trees of Mamre

Quote: שֹׁכֵ֨ן בְּ⁠אֵֽלֹנֵ֜י מַמְרֵ֣א (1)

See how you translated this clause in Gen 13:18. Alternate translation: “was still living by the oak trees that were owned by Mamre” or “was still living by the oak trees on the land owned by Mamre”

the Amorite

Quote: הָ⁠אֱמֹרִ֗י (1)

See how you translated “Amorites” in verse 7. Alternate translation: “who was a member of the Amorite people group”

the brother of Eshcol and the brother of Aner

Quote: אֲחִ֤י אֶשְׁכֹּל֙ וַ⁠אֲחִ֣י עָנֵ֔ר (1)

Alternate translation: “whose brothers were Eshcol and Aner”

and they {were

Quote: וְ⁠הֵ֖ם (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.

owners of a covenant with Abram

Quote: בַּעֲלֵ֥י בְרִית אַבְרָֽם (1)

Alternate translation: “had made a covenant with Abram to be his allies.” or “and Abram had made a pact together that they would help each other against their enemies.”

Genesis 14:14

And when Abram heard

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁמַ֣ע אַבְרָ֔ם (1)

Alternate translation: “When Abram found out”

that his relative had been taken captive

Quote: כִּ֥י נִשְׁבָּ֖ה אָחִ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language. Alternate translation: “that his nephew Lot had been captured,”

then he led out

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֨רֶק (1)

Alternate translation: “he called together for battle” or “he summoned for battle.”

his 318 trained men who had been born in his house

Quote: אֶת חֲנִיכָ֜י⁠ו יְלִידֵ֣י בֵית֗⁠וֹ שְׁמֹנָ֤ה עָשָׂר֙ וּ⁠שְׁלֹ֣שׁ מֵא֔וֹת (1)

It is clear from verse 15 that these men were Abram’s servants. Alternate translation: “318 of the servants who had been born in his household and were trained warriors” or “318 of his servants born in his household whom he had trained to fight”

and he pursued {his enemies

Quote: וַ⁠יִּרְדֹּ֖ף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this sentence the pronoun he refers to Abram and all those who had united with him as his allies. Alternate translation: “Then he and his men and his allies went after the invaders” or “Then together with his allies they all pursued the four kings and their armies”

as far as

Quote: עַד (1)

Alternate translation: “until they caught up with them at”

Genesis 14:15

Then he divided against them during the night, he and his servants

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּחָלֵ֨ק עֲלֵי⁠הֶ֧ם לַ֛יְלָה ה֥וּא וַ⁠עֲבָדָ֖י⁠ו (1)

Alternate translation: “Then during the night he and his servants divided into groups, surprise attacked the four kings and their soldiers,”

and struck them

Quote: וַ⁠יַּכֵּ֑⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Alternate translation: “and routed them”

and pursued them

Quote: וַֽ⁠יִּרְדְּפֵ⁠ם֙ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Then they went after them”

to Hobah

Quote: עַד חוֹבָ֔ה (1)

Alternate translation: “all the way to the town of Hobah,”

Genesis 14:16

And he brought back

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֕שֶׁב (1)

Alternate translation: “As a result, he got back” or “He recovered”

and he also brought back

Quote: וְ⁠גַם֩ & הֵשִׁ֔יב (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “He also got back” or “He also recovered”

and his possessions

Quote: וּ⁠רְכֻשׁ⁠וֹ֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “and all his belongings,”

Genesis 14:17

Then the king of Sodom came out

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּצֵ֣א מֶֽלֶךְ סְדֹם֮ (1)

Alternate translation: “Then the king over the city of Sodom”

Then the king of Sodom came out

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּצֵ֣א מֶֽלֶךְ־סְדֹם֮ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

Consider whether came or “went” is more natural here in your language. Alternate translation: “Then the king over the city of Sodom went out”

to meet him

Quote: לִ⁠קְרָאת⁠וֹ֒ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Alternate translation: “to greet him” or “and welcomed Abram”

in the Valley of Shaveh

Quote: אֶל עֵ֣מֶק שָׁוֵ֔ה (1)

Alternate translation: “in the Shaveh Valley,”

after he returned

Quote: אַחֲרֵ֣י שׁוּב֗⁠וֹ (1)

When Abram reached the Shaveh Valley, he was still about 20 miles (30 kilometers) north of his home, which was near the city of Hebron (Gen 13:18). Alternate translation: “as he was returning home” or “as he was going back home”

from striking

Quote: מֵֽ⁠הַכּוֹת֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated “struck” in verse 15. Alternate translation: “after defeating” or “after he defeated”

Kedorlaomer

Quote: אֶת כְּדָרלָעֹ֔מֶר (1)

Be consistent here with how you spelled this name previously in this chapter; see verses 1, 4-5, 9, 17. Alternate translation: “King Kedorlaomer and his army”

and the kings

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת הַ⁠מְּלָכִ֖ים (1)

Alternate translation: “and the armies of the other three kings”

who {were} with him

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר אִתּ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be better to put the clauses of this verse in the order that the events actually happened. For example you could say, “After Abram defeated King Kedorlaomer/Chedorlaomer and the other three kings who were Kedorlaomer’s/Chedorlaomer’s allies, he started to return home. When Abram reached the Shaveh Valley, that is, the King’s Valley, the king over the city of Sodom came/went there and greeted/welcomed him.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “who had joined themselves with Kedorlaomer”

Genesis 14:18

Then Melchizedek the king of Salem

Quote: וּ⁠מַלְכִּי צֶ֨דֶק֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ שָׁלֵ֔ם (1)

Salem is the short name for the city of Jerusalem (See: Psalm 76:2). The Shaveh Valley, where Melchizedek met Abram, was located just east of Jerusalem. You could put some of that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: “Then Melchizedek who was the king over the city of Salem also went there, and he”

brought out bread and wine

Quote: הוֹצִ֖יא לֶ֣חֶם וָ⁠יָ֑יִן (1)

It is not known whether Melchizedek brought out a large amount of bread and wine to feed Abram and his men, or if he brought out just enough for him and Abram to share, possibly as part of establishing a covenant between them. The first alternate above would work for either meaning. See how you translated wine in Gen 9:21, 24. Alternate translation: “brought (some) bread and wine for them to eat and drink.” or “brought some bread and wine for Abram and his men to eat and drink.”

And he {was

Quote: וְ⁠ה֥וּא (1)

Alternate translation: “He was also”

a priest

Quote: כֹהֵ֖ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

A priest is someone who represents people to God, and who represents God to the people. He leads the people in praying, worship, making sacrifices, ceremonies, and festivals. Alternate translation: “a priest for”

to God Most High

Quote: לְ⁠אֵ֥ל עֶלְיֽוֹן (1)

Alternate translation: “the most high God.” or “the highest God.” or “God who is higher than all other gods.”

Genesis 14:19

And he blessed him

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְבָרְכֵ֖⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

Make sure your translation of “blessed … and said” refers to the same event, not two separate events. Also see how you translated “bless” in Gen 12:2-3. Alternate translation: “He blessed Abram” or “So Melchizedek blessed Abram”

May Abram be blessed

Quote: בָּר֤וּךְ אַבְרָם֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “I pray that you Abram will be blessed”

by God Most High

Quote: לְ⁠אֵ֣ל עֶלְי֔וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

See how you translated this title in verse 18. For some languages it may be better to switch the order of phrases in this sentence and say, “May the greatest God, who owns heaven and earth, bless Abram/you.” or “I pray that the most high/powerful God, who created heaven and earth, will bless you Abram.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “by the most high God,” or “by the highest God,”

the Possessor of heaven and earth

Quote: קֹנֵ֖ה שָׁמַ֥יִם וָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)

The Hebrew word for Possessor also means “Creator,” which is used in many translations. Whichever one you do not use in the text you could put in a footnote. Alternate translation: “who is the Owner of heaven and earth.” or “who created heaven and earth.”

Genesis 14:20

And praised be

Quote: וּ⁠בָרוּךְ֙ (1)

See how you translated “Praised be” in Gen 9:26. Alternate translation: “Give praise to” or “Let everyone praise”

God Most High

Quote: אֵ֣ל עֶלְי֔וֹן (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verses 18-19. Alternate translation: “the most high God,” or “the highest God,”

who delivered your enemies into your hand

Quote: אֲשֶׁר מִגֵּ֥ן צָרֶ֖י⁠ךָ בְּ⁠יָדֶ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase “delivered … into your hand” is an idiom. Consider whether your language has a similar idiom that fits well here. Alternate translation: “because he gave you victory over your enemies!”

Then he gave to him

Quote: וַ⁠יִּתֶּן ל֥⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Make sure it is clear in your translation who is being referred to here.

a tenth

Quote: מַעֲשֵׂ֖ר (1)

Alternate translation: “one-tenth”

of everything

Quote: מִ⁠כֹּֽל (1)

This phrase refers to the belongings of the people of Sodom that Abram had recovered from the kings who stole them. Alternate translation: “of everything that he had captured in the battle.” or “of all the plunder he had brought back from the battle.”

Genesis 14:21

Then the king of Sodom said to Abram

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֥אמֶר מֶֽלֶךְ סְדֹ֖ם אֶל־אַבְרָ֑ם (1)

Alternate translation: “Then the king of Sodom requested of Abram,” or “After that, the king over the city of Sodom urged Abram,”

Give to me

Quote: תֶּן לִ֣⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

Make sure in your translation that the king of Sodom’s request to Abram sounds polite, not rude or demanding. Alternate translation: “Please give to me”

the people

Quote: הַ⁠נֶּ֔פֶשׁ (1)

Alternate translation: “my people whom you saved,” or “the people from Sodom whom you rescued,”

but the possessions take for yourself

Quote: וְ⁠הָ⁠רְכֻ֖שׁ קַֽח לָֽ⁠ךְ (1)

See how you translated possessions in verses 11-12,16. Alternate translation: “but the plunder you may keep for yourself.” or “but take for yourself the belongings that you recovered.”

Genesis 14:22

But Abram said to the king of Sodom

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֥אמֶר אַבְרָ֖ם אֶל מֶ֣לֶךְ סְדֹ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Abram and to the king of Sodom at this point in their conversation. Alternate translation: “But he replied to him,”

I raise my hand to Yahweh

Quote: הֲרִימֹ֨תִי יָדִ֤⁠י אֶל יְהוָה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

It was the custom that when a person made an oath, he raised his hand as an appeal to God to witness his oath and to hold him accountable and punish him if he were to break his oath. If this would not be clear to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action in the text or in a footnote. Alternate translation: “As a witness to this oath, I call on Yahweh”

I raise my hand to Yahweh

Quote: הֲרִימֹ֨תִי יָדִ֤⁠י אֶל יְהוָה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

The phrase I raise my hand to Yahweh begins an oath formula. Use a natural way in your language to express an oath. Alternate translation: “I pledge before Yahweh”

God Most High

Quote: אֵ֣ל עֶלְי֔וֹן (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verses 18-20. Alternate translation: “who is the highest God”

the Possessor of heaven and earth

Quote: קֹנֵ֖ה שָׁמַ֥יִם וָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 19. Alternate translation: “and the Owner of heaven and earth,” or “and the One who created heaven and earth,”

Genesis 14:23

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: אִם־מִ⁠חוּט֙ וְ⁠עַ֣ד שְׂרֽוֹךְ־נַ֔עַל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Abram is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from later in the sentence if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “if I take anything from a thread to the strap of a sandal”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: אִם־מִ⁠חוּט֙ וְ⁠עַ֣ד שְׂרֽוֹךְ־נַ֔עַל וְ⁠אִם־אֶקַּ֖ח מִ⁠כָּל־אֲשֶׁר־לָ֑⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

According to custom, Abram is leaving out the part of his oath that tells what Yahweh will do to him if he does the things that he mentions in his oath. Because of the power of spoken words, people left that part to be understood silently. You could supply these words if it would be clearer and not offensive in your language. Alternate translation: “if from a thread even to the strap of a sandal, or I take from anything that {belongs} to you, may Yahweh punish me severely” or “…may Yahweh strike me dead”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: מִ⁠חוּט֙ וְ⁠עַ֣ד שְׂרֽוֹךְ נַ֔עַל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Abram is mentioning things that are so small and insignificant that no one would want them in order to make the point that he doesn't want anything from the king of Sodom. Alternate translation: “even a thread or the strap from a sandal,” or “even something as small as a piece of string or a sandal strap”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: וְ⁠אִם אֶקַּ֖ח מִ⁠כָּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

This clause emphasizes Abram’s point by repeating the meaning of the previous phrase in different words. Consider what is the best way to emphasize a point in your language. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “No I will not keep anything”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: אֲשֶׁר לָ֑⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages, it may be clearer and more natural to put this phrase earlier in this verse and say, “that I will not keep/accept anything that belongs to you or your people, not even something as small as a piece of thread/string or the strap from a sandal.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “that belongs to you or your people,”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֣א תֹאמַ֔ר (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: אֲנִ֖י הֶעֱשַׁ֥רְתִּי אֶת אַבְרָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

The Hebrew pronoun that refers here to the king of Sodom is emphatic. Consider what is the best way to communicate that emphasis in your language. Also consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote. Alternate translation: “I am the one who made Abram wealthy!”

Genesis 14:24

I {will take} nothing, except

Quote: בִּלְעָדַ֗⁠י רַ֚ק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions

Consider what is the best way in your language to translate this exception sentence. Alternate translation: “So I will not keep anything, except” or “So I will only accept”

what the young men have eaten

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר אָֽכְל֣וּ הַ⁠נְּעָרִ֔ים (1)

These young men were Abram’s trained servants or warriors who are mentioned in verses 14-15. Alternate translation: “what my servants who fought with me have eaten” or “what my men ate”

and the share of the other men who went with me: Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre

Quote: וְ⁠חֵ֨לֶק֙ הָֽ⁠אֲנָשִׁ֔ים אֲשֶׁ֥ר הָלְכ֖וּ אִתִּ֑⁠י עָנֵר֙ אֶשְׁכֹּ֣ל וּ⁠מַמְרֵ֔א (1)

Alternate translation: “and the share of the plunder that Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre deserve for being my allies” or “and what Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre deserve for helping me in the battle.”

Let them take

Quote: הֵ֖ם יִקְח֥וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

Abram is being polite, but make sure in your translation that he does not sound like he is begging, especially since he is a mighty warrior. Alternate translation: “Please let them take” or “Please give them”

their share

Quote: חֶלְקָֽ⁠ם (1)

Alternate translation: “their share of the plunder.” or “their part of what we recovered.”

Genesis 15

Genesis 15:1

After those things

Quote: אַחַ֣ר הַ⁠דְּבָרִ֣ים הָ⁠אֵ֗לֶּה (1)

Alternate translation: “After those events happened,”

the word of Yahweh came to Abram in a vision, saying

Quote: הָיָ֤ה דְבַר יְהוָה֙ אֶל אַבְרָ֔ם בַּֽ⁠מַּחֲזֶ֖ה לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

A vision is a supernatural experience that a person has while he is awake, so the way you translate this term should be different from the way you translate “dream” (since people have dreams while asleep). Make sure your translation of this clause does not sound like what Abram saw was unreal; what he saw and heard actually happened. Alternate translation: “Yahweh appeared to Abram visually and said to him,”

I {am} a shield for you

Quote: אָנֹכִי֙ מָגֵ֣ן לָ֔⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

God is like a shield to Abram since he protects him. Consider what is the best way to translate this metaphor in your language. Alternate translation: “I am your shield” or “I protect you like a shield,” or “I will shield you,”

your reward will be very great

Quote: שְׂכָרְ⁠ךָ֖ הַרְבֵּ֥ה מְאֹֽד (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “and your reward from me will be very great.” or “and I will give you a very great/valuable reward/gift.” (2) “and I am your very great/valuable reward.” The context (verse 2) shows that the first interpretation is what Abram understood God to be saying.

Genesis 15:2

But Abram said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר אַבְרָ֗ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

The way you translate this quote margin may depend on how you translate the following rhetorical question. Alternate translation: “Then Abram said to him,” or “Then Abram asked him,”

My Lord Yahweh

Quote: אֲדֹנָ֤⁠י יֱהוִה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

The phrase My Lord means that Yahweh owns Abram and has complete authority over him, just as a master (at that time) had complete authority over his servant. Alternate translation: “My Master Yahweh,” or “Yahweh my Lord”

what will you give to me

Quote: מַה תִּתֶּן לִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Abram uses this rhetorical question to show that he is lamenting that he has no children. Make sure in your translation that he does not sound rude. Alternate translation: “what reward can you give to me that would benefit me,” or “even if you reward me greatly, that will not help me,”

since I go childless

Quote: וְ⁠אָנֹכִ֖י הוֹלֵ֣ךְ עֲרִירִ֑י (1)

Alternate translation: “since I remain childless”

and the son of the inheritance of

Quote: וּ⁠בֶן מֶ֣שֶׁק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase son of the inheritance is used here as an idiom that means “inheritor” or “heir”; it does not refer to an actual son. Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “so that after I die, the heir of” or “So when I die, the one who will own”

my house

Quote: בֵּיתִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

This phrase refers here to all Abram’s belongings. Alternate translation: “my estate” or “all that I own”

is} the Damascan, Eliezer

Quote: דַּמֶּ֥שֶׂק אֱלִיעֶֽזֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

In the Hebrew text, Abram emphasizes the fact that Eliezer was from Damascus, which means he was a foreigner from a foreign city, not a blood relative. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Also, be consistent here with how you translated “the city of Damascus” in Gen 14:15. Alternate translation: “is my foreign servant Eliezer from Damascus”

Genesis 15:3

Then Abram said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר אַבְרָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Some languages omit these words, because the same speaker is still speaking to the same audience. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Then he added,”

Behold

Quote: הֵ֣ן (1)

Some translations omit this phrase to prevent Abram from sounding rude. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Look”

you have not given a child to me

Quote: לִ֔⁠י לֹ֥א נָתַ֖תָּה זָ֑רַע (1)

In the Hebrew text to me is before you have not given to emphasize Abram. Do what is natural in your language.

so that behold

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּ֥ה (1)

Alternate translation: “so that now after I die,”

a servant of my house

Quote: בֶן בֵּיתִ֖⁠י (1)

Alternate translation: “a servant from my household”

is my heir

Quote: יוֹרֵ֥שׁ אֹתִֽ⁠י (1)

Alternate translation: “will be my heir!” or “will get everything I own!”

Genesis 15:4

Then behold

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּ֨ה (1)

Alternate translation: “Immediately”

the word of Yahweh {came} to him, saying

Quote: דְבַר יְהוָ֤ה אֵלָי⁠ו֙ לֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this idiom in verse 1. It may be necessary to translate it differently here because of the different context. Alternate translation: “Yahweh said to him”

That {man

Quote: זֶ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “No, that man”

will not be your heir, but rather

Quote: לֹ֥א יִֽירָשְׁ⁠ךָ֖ & כִּי אִם֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “will not get your estate rather”

a son who comes from your bowels, he

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר יֵצֵ֣א מִ⁠מֵּעֶ֔י⁠ךָ ה֖וּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-Idiom

The phrase comes from your bowels is an idiom that refers to fathering a child. Make sure your translation of this clause does not imply that Abram would give birth to a son. Alternate translation: “a son whom you father”

will be your heir

Quote: יִֽירָשֶֽׁ⁠ךָ (1)

Alternate translation: “will own your estate” or “will own it.”

Genesis 15:5

Then he brought him

Quote: וַ⁠יּוֹצֵ֨א אֹת֜⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Yahweh and Abram at this point in the paragraph. Alternate translation: “Then Yahweh led Abram”

outside

Quote: הַ⁠ח֗וּצָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Abram was probably inside a tent, not inside a house. But if possible, it is best to leave this implied in a translation (as the Hebrew text does).

Please look

Quote: הַבֶּט נָ֣א (1)

See how you translated “please” in Gen 13:14. Make sure your translation does not sound like God is begging. Alternate translation: “Now look up”

at the heavens

Quote: הַ⁠שָּׁמַ֗יְמָ⁠ה (1)

Alternate translation: “into the heavens” or “into the night sky”

and count the stars, if you are able to count them

Quote: וּ⁠סְפֹר֙ הַ⁠כּ֣וֹכָבִ֔ים אִם תּוּכַ֖ל לִ⁠סְפֹּ֣ר אֹתָ֑⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary

God’s point here is that there are so many stars that no one could ever count that high. He is not questioning Abram’s ability to count. Consider what is the best way to translate this contrary-to-fact statement in your language. Alternate translation: “and try to count how many stars there are, if in fact, anyone could possibly count all of them.” or “There are so many stars that no one could ever count them all.”

Then he said to him

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר ל֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Throughout this chapter make sure it is clear in your translation who is speaking to whom. Always use pronouns and nouns in a way that is clear and natural in your language. Alternate translation: “While Abram was looking at the stars, Yahweh said to Abram,” or “So Abram looked up at the stars, and Yahweh continued speaking to him,”

So will your offspring be

Quote: כֹּ֥ה יִהְיֶ֖ה זַרְעֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)

Alternate translation: “That is how many your offspring will be.” or “That is how many offspring you will have.”

Genesis 15:6

And he trusted

Quote: וְ⁠הֶאֱמִ֖ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Many translations omit the conjunction And here. Do what is best in your language. Also, make sure it is clear in your translation that Abram is the subject here, not Yahweh (who was the last subject in verse 5). Alternate translation: “He believed Yahweh,” or “He believed what Yahweh said,”

and he counted it to him {as} righteousness

Quote: וַ⁠יַּחְשְׁבֶ֥⁠הָ לּ֖⁠וֹ צְדָקָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Notice that Yahweh is now the subject again. Make sure it is clear in your translation who is speaking to whom here and throughout this section. Alternate translation: “and so Yahweh credited it to him as righteousness.” or “and because of that, Yahweh reckoned Abram to be righteous.” or “so Yahweh considered Abram to have a right relationship with him.”

Genesis 15:7

Then he said to him

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֖אמֶר אֵלָ֑י⁠ו (1)

Alternate translation: “Then Yahweh said to Abram,”

I {am} Yahweh who brought you out of Ur of

Quote: אֲנִ֣י יְהוָ֗ה אֲשֶׁ֤ר הוֹצֵאתִ֨י⁠ךָ֙ מֵ⁠א֣וּר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

Alternate translation: “I am Yahweh who led you here from the city of Ur”

the Kasdim

Quote: כַּשְׂדִּ֔ים (1)

See how you translated “Ur of the Kasdim/Chaldeans” in Gen 11:28, 31, and see the note about that there. Alternate translation: “which is ruled by the Kasdim” or “that the Kasdim rule” or “where the Kasdim live”

to possess it

Quote: לְ⁠רִשְׁתָּֽ⁠הּ (1)

Alternate translation: “as your homeland.” or “to be your own”

Genesis 15:8

Then he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּאמַ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Make sure it is clear in your translation that Abram is the one speaking here, not Yahweh. Alternate translation: “Then Abram said to him,” or “But he asked him,”

My Lord Yahweh

Quote: אֲדֹנָ֣⁠י יֱהוִ֔ה (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 2. Alternate translation: “My Master Yahweh,” or “Yahweh my Lord”

how will I know

Quote: בַּ⁠מָּ֥ה אֵדַ֖ע (1)

Alternate translation: “how can I know for sure” or “how will I be sure”

that I will possess it

Quote: כִּ֥י אִֽירָשֶֽׁ⁠נָּה (1)

Alternate translation: “that I will possess this territory?”

Genesis 15:9

Then he said to him

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלָ֗י⁠ו (1)

Alternate translation: “Yahweh said to him”

a three-year-old heifer

Quote: עֶגְלָ֣ה מְשֻׁלֶּ֔שֶׁת (1)

Alternate translation: “a cow that is three years old,”

and a three-year-old she-goat

Quote: וְ⁠עֵ֥ז מְשֻׁלֶּ֖שֶׁת (1)

Alternate translation: “a female goat that is three years old,”

and a three-year-old ram

Quote: וְ⁠אַ֣יִל מְשֻׁלָּ֑שׁ (1)

For some languages it may be more natural to shorten this list of animals and say, “Bring to me a young cow, a female goat, and a male sheep, each of which is three years old,” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “and a male sheep that is three years old”

and a turtledove and a young pigeon

Quote: וְ⁠תֹ֖ר וְ⁠גוֹזָֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

Turtledoves and pigeons are common, closely related birds that look similar and are often gray or grayish brown in color. One of the main differences is that turtledoves are smaller than pigeons. Compare how you translated “dove” in Gen 8:8. Alternate translation: “as well as a turtledove and a young pigeon.”

Genesis 15:10

So he brought

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽקַּֽח (1)

It was nighttime in verse 5 when Abram looked at the stars. Now in verses 10-11 it was probably daytime, which is when birds of prey fly (verse 11). Then in verse 12 it became night again. Consider what is the best way to begin this verse in your translation. Alternate translation: “So the next day Abram took”

all those to him

Quote: ל֣⁠וֹ אֶת כָּל אֵ֗לֶּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Some languages need to make explicit that Abram killed the animals first, before cutting them in half. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “all those animals to him and killed them.”

down the middle

Quote: בַּ⁠תָּ֔וֶךְ (1)

Abram probably cut the animals down the middle lengthwise, which means that each half had one front leg, and one back leg. Alternate translation: “into two parts lengthwise”

and laid the halves opposite to each other

Quote: וַ⁠יִּתֵּ֥ן אִישׁ־בִּתְר֖⁠וֹ לִ⁠קְרַ֣את רֵעֵ֑⁠הוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “and placed each half a short distance across from its other half in two rows,” or “and laid the right half of each animal across from its left half in two rows,”

but the birds he did not cut in two

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת הַ⁠צִפֹּ֖ר לֹ֥א בָתָֽר (1)

See how you translated “cut … in two” earlier in verse 10. Alternate translation: “but he did not divide the bodies of the birds in two” or “except for the birds, which he did not cut in two”

Genesis 15:11

Then birds of prey came down

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֥רֶד הָ⁠עַ֖יִט (1)

This phrase refers to large birds that eat dead animal meat. Examples of these birds include vultures, buzzards, condors, eagles, and crows. Alternate translation: “Then some birds of prey landed” or “Then some vultures swooped down and landed” or “Then some meat-eating birds”

on the carcasses

Quote: עַל־הַ⁠פְּגָרִ֑ים (1)

Alternate translation: “the dead animal parts to eat them,” or “the dead animals to eat them,”

and Abram drove them away

Quote: וַ⁠יַּשֵּׁ֥ב אֹתָ֖⁠ם אַבְרָֽם (1)

Alternate translation: “but Abram scared them away.” or “but Abram made them go away.”

Genesis 15:12

Then it happened

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֤י (1)

This phrase adds suspense and makes the reader wonder what will happen next. Many translations leave it out, but if possible it is best to keep it in your translation. Alternate translation: “Then it happened that”

the sun was setting

Quote: הַ⁠שֶּׁ֨מֶשׁ֙ לָ⁠ב֔וֹא (1)

Alternate translation: “when the sun was going down” or “as it was starting to become night”

and a deep sleep fell on Abram

Quote: וְ⁠תַרְדֵּמָ֖ה נָפְלָ֣ה עַל אַבְרָ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated a similar idiom in Gen 2:21. Alternate translation: “Abram went into a sound sleep,” or “Abram went soundly asleep,”

and behold

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּ֥ה (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Then suddenly,”

terror {and} great darkness fell on him

Quote: אֵימָ֛ה חֲשֵׁכָ֥ה גְדֹלָ֖ה נֹפֶ֥לֶת עָלָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Alternate translation: “a great terrifying darkness came over him.” or “it became very dark, and he was terrified.”

Genesis 15:13

Then he said to Abram

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר לְ⁠אַבְרָ֗ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “Then Yahweh said to Abram”

Know for certain that

Quote: יָדֹ֨עַ תֵּדַ֜ע כִּי (1)

Alternate translation: “You can be sure that”

your offspring

Quote: זַרְעֲ⁠ךָ֗ (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 5.

will be strangers

Quote: גֵ֣ר יִהְיֶ֣ה (1)

The word strangers refers to people who live temporarily in a city, country, or region, but they do not settle there permanently. Alternate translation: “will live as sojourners”

that} {does} not {belong} to them

Quote: לֹ֣א לָ⁠הֶ֔ם (1)

Alternate translation: “that is not their home”

and they will serve them

Quote: וַ⁠עֲבָד֖וּ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, make sure that your translation of these pronouns clearly communicates who is being referred to. Alternate translation: “They will serve the people in that land as slaves,” or “They will be slaves for the people who live in that land”

and they will afflict them

Quote: וְ⁠עִנּ֣וּ אֹתָ֑⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Notice that here the pronoun they refers to the people who were living in the country where Abram’s descendants will be sojourning and them refers to Abram’s descendants. Make sure that is clear in your translation. Alternate translation: “and those people will oppress them” or “and those people will treat them badly”

400 years

Quote: אַרְבַּ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת שָׁנָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

This phrase refers to how long Abram’s descendants would live in a land that is not theirs, not how long they would be oppressed, which was less than half of those 400 years. To make that clear in your translation, you could move this phrase earlier and say: “I want you to know that for 400 years your offspring/descendants will live in a land/country that is not their own, and the people of that country will oppress them.” Alternate translation: “for a period of 400 years.”

Genesis 15:14

But also

Quote: וְ⁠גַ֧ם (1)

Alternate translation: “And you can also be sure that”

the nation

Quote: אֶת הַ⁠גּ֛וֹי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Alternate translation: “the people of that nation” or “the people”

that they serve

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר יַעֲבֹ֖דוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “whom they serve as slaves” or “who made them slaves”

I will judge

Quote: דָּ֣ן אָנֹ֑כִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it is clearer or more natural to put this clause earlier in this sentence and say, “But I will also judge/punish the people of the nation that they serve”. Do what is natural in your language.

and after that

Quote: וְ⁠אַחֲרֵי כֵ֥ן (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Then”

they will come out

Quote: יֵצְא֖וּ (1)

Alternate translation: “your offspring will leave that land”

with great possessions

Quote: בִּ⁠רְכֻ֥שׁ גָּדֽוֹל (1)

See how you translated possessions in Gen 14:16, 21. Alternate translation: “with many possessions.” or “with much wealth.” or “and take many riches with them.”

Genesis 15:15

And you

Quote: וְ⁠אַתָּ֛ה (1)

In the Hebrew text, the pronoun you is emphatic and has an emphatic position in the sentence (before the verb) to change the topic. Do what is clear and natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Now as for you,”

you will go to your fathers in peace

Quote: תָּב֥וֹא אֶל אֲבֹתֶ֖י⁠ךָ בְּ⁠שָׁל֑וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

This clause is a euphemism that refers to Abram’s death. However, it is best to translate the clause as literally as possible, since it implies the important information that people are still alive after they have died on earth. Also, notice that the term fathers refers here to ancestors who have died, not those who are still alive on earth. Alternate translation: “you will be at peace when you die and join your forefathers who have gone before you”

you will be buried at a good old age

Quote: תִּקָּבֵ֖ר בְּ⁠שֵׂיבָ֥ה טוֹבָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

This clause is a euphemism that refers to Abram’s death. Make sure in your translation that it does not sound like he will be buried alive. For some languages it may be more natural to change the order of this sentence and say, “after you have lived a good/blessed long life, you will die peacefully and join your ancestors who have died before you.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “In fact, you will not die until you have lived a blessed, long life.” or “In fact, you will live a blessed, long life before you die.”

Genesis 15:16

Then in the fourth generation

Quote: וְ⁠ד֥וֹר רְבִיעִ֖י (1)

Alternate translation: “Then after four generations have passed,”

they will come back here

Quote: יָשׁ֣וּבוּ הֵ֑נָּה (1)

Alternate translation: “your descendants will come back to this land and live here,”

because the sin of the Amorites {will} not {be} complete until then

Quote: כִּ֧י לֹא שָׁלֵ֛ם עֲוֺ֥ן הָ⁠אֱמֹרִ֖י עַד הֵֽנָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

God planned to give the Amorites’ land to Abram’s descendants because of the Amorites’ sin. Consider whether or not to include that implied information in your translation or in a footnote. Also, see how you translated the names of people groups in Gen 10:13-18. Alternate translation: “because that is when the Amorite people will have sinned as much as I will allow before I take away their land and give it to your descendants.” or “and I will give them the land of the Amor people, whose sin will have reached its limit by then.”

Genesis 15:17

Then it happened

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֤י (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 12, and see the note about that there. Alternate translation: “Then it happened that”

the sun went down

Quote: הַ⁠שֶּׁ֨מֶשׁ֙ בָּ֔אָה (1)

The sun had started to go down in verse 12. Here it had completely set. Alternate translation: “after the sun had gone down,” or “after the sun had set,”

and darkness came

Quote: וַ⁠עֲלָטָ֖ה הָיָ֑ה (1)

This Hebrew word for darkness implies that it was darker than normal, so that not even light from the moon and stars was visible. Alternate translation: “it was very dark”

and behold

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּ֨ה (1)

For some languages it is better to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “and suddenly,”

and a flaming torch

Quote: וְ⁠לַפִּ֣יד אֵ֔שׁ (1)

Alternate translation: “and also a burning torch”

that passed

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָבַ֔ר (1)

Alternate translation: “and they both passed”

between those pieces

Quote: בֵּ֖ין הַ⁠גְּזָרִ֥ים הָ⁠אֵֽלֶּה (1)

Alternate translation: “between the two rows of animal parts”

Genesis 15:18

On that day

Quote: בַּ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠ה֗וּא (1)

It is still nighttime at this point (See: verse 17), so the word day refers generally here to a 24-hour day; it does not refer to daytime. Alternate translation: “On that very day”

Yahweh cut

Quote: כָּרַ֧ת יְהוָ֛ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-Idiom

Alternate translation: “Yahweh established”

a covenant with Abram

Quote: אֶת אַבְרָ֖ם בְּרִ֣ית (1)

See how you translated covenant in Gen 9:9, 11-13, 15-17. Alternate translation: “a peace covenant with Abram”

saying

Quote: לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “by saying,”

To your offspring I have given this land

Quote: לְ⁠זַרְעֲ⁠ךָ֗ נָתַ֨תִּי֙ אֶת הָ⁠אָ֣רֶץ הַ⁠זֹּ֔את (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

In the Hebrew text “to your offspring/descendants” is first in this quote to emphasize Abram’s descendants. Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I am giving your offspring this land,” or “I hereby give this land to your offspring”

from the river of Egypt

Quote: מִ⁠נְּהַ֣ר מִצְרַ֔יִם (1)

This phrase probably refers to the Wadi El-Arish (not the Nile River), which is on the border between Egypt and Israel. It is best in a translation to leave this general as the Hebrew text does.

to the great river, the Euphrates River

Quote: עַד הַ⁠נָּהָ֥ר הַ⁠גָּדֹ֖ל נְהַר פְּרָֽת (1)

Alternate translation: “to the big Euphrates River in the north,”

Genesis 15:19

the land of

Quote: אֶת (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “including the land which is owned by” or “That is the land which belongs to”

the land of} the Kenites and the Kenizzites and the Kadmonites

Quote: אֶת הַ⁠קֵּינִי֙ וְ⁠אֶת הַ⁠קְּנִזִּ֔י וְ⁠אֵ֖ת הַ⁠קַּדְמֹנִֽי (1)

In a list of people group names like this (verses 19-21), for some languages it is more natural to leave out and and the most of the time. Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Kenites, Kenizzites, Kadmonites,”

Genesis 15:20

and the Hittites and the Perizzites and the Rephaim

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת הַ⁠חִתִּ֥י וְ⁠אֶת הַ⁠פְּרִזִּ֖י וְ⁠אֶת הָ⁠רְפָאִֽים (1)

Be consistent here with how you translated the Hittites in Gen 10:15, the Perizzites in Gen 13:7, and “the Rephaim/Rephaites” in Gen 14:5. Alternate translation: “the Hittites, the Perizzites, the Rephaites,” or “Hittites, Perizzites, Rephaites,”

Genesis 15:21

and the Amorites and the Canaanites and the Girgashites and the Jebusites

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת הָֽ⁠אֱמֹרִי֙ וְ⁠אֶת הַֽ⁠כְּנַעֲנִ֔י וְ⁠אֶת הַ⁠גִּרְגָּשִׁ֖י וְ⁠אֶת הַ⁠יְבוּסִֽי (1)

Be consistent here with how you translated the Amorites in verse 18 and Amorites, Canaanites, Girgashites, and Jebusites in Gen 10:15-18. Alternate translation: “Amorites, Canaanites, Girgashites, and Jebusites.”

Genesis 16

Genesis 16:1

Now Sarai, the wife of Abram

Quote: וְ⁠שָׂרַי֙ אֵ֣שֶׁת אַבְרָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

This verse begins a new topic and gives background information about Sarai. Some languages have a special conjunction for this. Other languages do not use a conjunction here. Do what is best in your language.

had not born {children} for him

Quote: לֹ֥א יָלְדָ֖ה ל֑⁠וֹ (1)

Sarai’s barrenness is first mentioned in Gen 11:30. Alternate translation: “still had not had any children for him,”

but she had

Quote: וְ⁠לָ֛⁠הּ (1)

Alternate translation: “but she did have”

an Egyptian maidservant

Quote: שִׁפְחָ֥ה מִצְרִ֖ית (1)

See how you translated “female slaves/servants” in Gen 12:16. Alternate translation: “an Egyptian slave woman” or “a female slave from the country of Egypt”

and her name {was} Hagar

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁמָ֥⁠הּ הָגָֽר (1)

Alternate translation: “named Hagar.”

Genesis 16:2

So Sarai said to Abram

Quote: וַ⁠תֹּ֨אמֶר שָׂרַ֜י אֶל אַבְרָ֗ם (1)

Alternate translation: “Then she told Abram,”

Behold please

Quote: הִנֵּה נָ֞א (1)

See how you translated this phrase in Gen 12:11. Alternate translation: “Listen now:” or “Please listen to me”

Yahweh has prevented me from bearing {children

Quote: עֲצָרַ֤⁠נִי יְהוָה֙ מִ⁠לֶּ֔דֶת (1)

Alternate translation: “Since Yahweh has not permitted me to bear any children,” or “As you know, Yahweh has not permitted me to bear any children, so”

Please go to

Quote: בֹּא נָא֙ אֶל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the previous sentence. Also, see how you translated the idiom “went to” in Gen 6:4. Alternate translation: “please sleep with” or “please have sexual relations with”

my maidservant

Quote: שִׁפְחָתִ֔⁠י (1)

See how you translated maidservant in verse 1. Alternate translation: “my slave woman Hagar.”

Perhaps

Quote: אוּלַ֥י (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Maybe” or “so that perhaps”

I can be built up from her

Quote: אִבָּנֶ֖ה מִמֶּ֑⁠נָּה (1)

Alternate translation: “I can build a family through her children.” or “she can have children for me so that I can build a family.”

And Abram listened to the voice of Sarai

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁמַ֥ע אַבְרָ֖ם לְ⁠ק֥וֹל שָׂרָֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Alternate translation: “Abram agreed to do what she requested” or “So Abram listened to Sarai.”

Genesis 16:3

So Sarai, the wife of Abram, took

Quote: וַ⁠תִּקַּ֞ח שָׂרַ֣י אֵֽשֶׁת אַבְרָ֗ם (1)

In the Hebrew text, the phrase “Abram’s wife” is repeated (in verses 1 and 3) to emphasize Sarai’s relationship to Abram in contrast to Hagar. For some languages it is overly redundant to repeat that phrase, and so they leave it implied here. However, if possible, it is best to keep this repetition in your translation. Alternate translation: “Then Sarai took”

Hagar, her Egyptian maidservant

Quote: אֶת הָגָ֤ר הַ⁠מִּצְרִית֙ שִׁפְחָתָ֔⁠הּ (1)

The word Egyptian is repeated (in verses 1 and 3) to emphasize the fact that Hagar was a foreigner. If possible, it is best to keep this repetition in your translation. Alternate translation: “her Egyptian servant woman Hagar,” or “her servant Hagar,”

at the end of ten years that Abram had lived in the land of Canaan

Quote: מִ⁠קֵּץ֙ עֶ֣שֶׂר שָׁנִ֔ים לְ⁠שֶׁ֥בֶת אַבְרָ֖ם בְּ⁠אֶ֣רֶץ כְּנָ֑עַן (1)

Alternate translation: “after Abram and Sarai had lived in the land of Canaan for ten years,”

and gave her to Abram her husband as a wife for him

Quote: וַ⁠תִּתֵּ֥ן אֹתָ֛⁠הּ לְ⁠אַבְרָ֥ם אִישָׁ֖⁠הּ ל֥⁠וֹ לְ⁠אִשָּֽׁה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For most languages it is clearer and more natural to change the order of the clauses in this verse and say, “So Abram’s wife Sarai gave her servant Hagar to her husband Abram to be his second wife. This/That happened after Abram and Sarai had lived in the land/region of Canaan for ten years.” Make sure your translation does not sound like verse 3 happened ten years after Abram agreed to sleep with Hagar. Alternate translation: “and she gave her to her husband Abram to be his second wife.”

Genesis 16:4

Then he went to Hagar

Quote: וַ⁠יָּבֹ֥א אֶל הָגָ֖ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Consider whether it is better in your language to refer to Abram by his name or by a pronoun here at the beginning of this paragraph. See how you translated the idiom “go to” in verse 2. Alternate translation: “So Abram slept with Hagar,” or “So he had marital relations with Hagar,”

and she conceived

Quote: וַ⁠תַּ֑הַר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Alternate translation: “and as a result,” or “and so”

and she conceived

Quote: וַ⁠תַּ֑הַר (1)

Make sure that the way you translate this phrase will not be embarrassing or offensive to people, especially when it is read aloud. Alternate translation: “and as a result, she became pregnant.” or “and so she became pregnant.”

And she saw that she had conceived

Quote: וַ⁠תֵּ֨רֶא֙ כִּ֣י הָרָ֔תָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The word saw is used here as an idiom that means “realized” or “perceived”. Consider whether or not you have a similar idiom in your language that would work well here. Alternate translation: “But when she saw that she was pregnant,”

and her mistress was despised in her eyes

Quote: וַ⁠תֵּקַ֥ל גְּבִרְתָּ֖⁠הּ בְּ⁠עֵינֶֽי⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

The phrase despised in her eyes is an idiom that refers here to Hagar’s attitude and disrespectful actions toward Sarai. Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom. Also consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language. Alternate translation: “she despised her owner Sarai.” or “she treated her owner Sarai with contempt” or “she started to look down on her mistress Sarai.”

Genesis 16:5

Then Sarai said to Abram

Quote: וַ⁠תֹּ֨אמֶר שָׂרַ֣י אֶל אַבְרָם֮ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “Then Sarai complained to Abram,”

My wrong {is} on you

Quote: חֲמָסִ֣⁠י עָלֶי⁠ךָ֒ (1)

Alternate translation: “I am suffering because of you!” or “I am being mistreated because of you!” or “It is your fault that I am being treated wrongly”

I myself put my maidservant into your arms

Quote: אָנֹכִ֗י נָתַ֤תִּי שִׁפְחָתִ⁠י֙ בְּ⁠חֵיקֶ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

The idiom “put … into your arms” refers to Abram’s relationship with Hagar. Make sure that your translation of this clause is not offensive. Alternate translation: “I gave my servant to you to be your wife,” or “I allowed my servant to have marital relations with you,”

but she sees that she has conceived

Quote: וַ⁠תֵּ֨רֶא֙ כִּ֣י הָרָ֔תָה (1)

Alternate translation: “but now that she knows that she is pregnant,”

and I am despised in her eyes

Quote: וָ⁠אֵקַ֖ל בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֑י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language. Also see how you translated a similar clause in verse 4. Alternate translation: “she despises me!” or “she treats me with disdain”

May Yahweh judge between me and you

Quote: יִשְׁפֹּ֥ט יְהוָ֖ה בֵּינִ֥⁠י וּ⁠בֵינֶֽיׄ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

As the head of the household, it was Abram’s responsibility to rebuke Hagar and require her to respect Sarai. You could put that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: “I ask Yahweh to decide between you and me who is responsible for this!” or “I ask Yahweh to decide who is wrong, you or me!” or “May Yahweh judge whether it is you or I who is responsible for this!”

Genesis 16:6

Then Abram said to Sarai

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר אַבְרָ֜ם אֶל שָׂרַ֗י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “But Abram said to her,”

Behold

Quote: הִנֵּ֤ה (1)

Alternate translation: “Look”

your maidservant {is} in your hand

Quote: שִׁפְחָתֵ⁠ךְ֙ בְּ⁠יָדֵ֔⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase in your hand is an idiom that refers to having control or authority over someone. Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom. Also see how you translated maidservant in verses 1-3, 5. Alternate translation: “your slave woman is under your authority” or “you have authority over your slave”

Do to her

Quote: עֲשִׂי לָ֖⁠הּ (1)

Alternate translation: “So you can do to her”

what {is} good in your eyes

Quote: הַ⁠טּ֣וֹב בְּ⁠עֵינָ֑יִ⁠ךְ (1)

The phrase in your eyes is an idiom that refers to Sarai’s opinion. See how you translated a similar idiom (“in her eyes”) in verses 4 and 5. Alternate translation: “whatever you decide is good” or “whatever pleases you.”

Then Sarai afflicted her

Quote: וַ⁠תְּעַנֶּ֣⁠הָ שָׂרַ֔י (1)

See how you translated “afflict” in Gen 15:13. Alternate translation: “So Sarai oppressed her so” or “So Sarai treated her so badly that”

and she fled from her face

Quote: וַ⁠תִּבְרַ֖ח מִ⁠פָּנֶֽי⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Make sure it is clear in your translation that Hagar is the one who fled, not Sarai. Alternate translation: “she ran away from her.” or “she ran away from home to get away from Sarai.”

Genesis 16:7

Then the angel of Yahweh found her

Quote: וַֽ⁠יִּמְצָאָ֞⁠הּ מַלְאַ֧ךְ יְהוָ֛ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

Make sure that the way you translate found does not sound like the angel had come across Hagar accidentally. Rather, he knew where she was and had gone to her intentionally. Also, this messenger from Yahweh was an angel, not a human being. Alternate translation: “But an messenger sent from Yahweh found Hagar”

at a spring of water

Quote: עַל עֵ֥ין הַ⁠מַּ֖יִם (1)

Alternate translation: “beside a spring of water” or “beside a spring”

in the wilderness

Quote: בַּ⁠מִּדְבָּ֑ר (1)

See how you translated wilderness in Gen 14:6.

at the spring

Quote: עַל הָ⁠עַ֖יִן (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “She was at the spring”

beside the road of Shur

Quote: בְּ⁠דֶ֥רֶךְ שֽׁוּר (1)

Alternate translation: “that was by the road that goes to the city of Shur.” or “that was by the road near the city of Shur.”

Genesis 16:8

And he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּאמַ֗ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

The angel asked Hagar a question, so for some languages it is better to use a word like “asked” here. Consider what is the best way to translate this quote margin in your language. Alternate translation: “And the angel said to her,” or “The angel asked her,”

And she said

Quote: וַ⁠תֹּ֕אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Alternate translation: “She said to him,” or “Hagar answered him,”

I am fleeing from the face of Sarai, my mistress

Quote: מִ⁠פְּנֵי֙ שָׂרַ֣י גְּבִרְתִּ֔⁠י אָנֹכִ֖י בֹּרַֽחַת (1)

See how you translated “fled from … face” in verse 6 and how you translated mistress in verse 4. Alternate translation: “I am running away from my owner Sarai.”

Genesis 16:9

Then the angel of Yahweh said to her

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר לָ⁠הּ֙ מַלְאַ֣ךְ יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Consider what is the best way to begin this verse in your translation, after what Hagar said in verse 8. Alternate translation: “But he told Hagar,”

Return to your mistress

Quote: שׁ֖וּבִי אֶל גְּבִרְתֵּ֑⁠ךְ (1)

See how you translated “mistress/owner” in verses 4 and 8. Alternate translation: “Go back home to your owner Sarai”

and submit under her hands

Quote: וְ⁠הִתְעַנִּ֖י תַּ֥חַת יָדֶֽי⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated a similar idiom (“in your hand”) in verse 6. Alternate translation: “and humbly submit yourself to her authority.”

Genesis 16:10

Then the angel of Yahweh said to her

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר לָ⁠הּ֙ מַלְאַ֣ךְ יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Some languages do not include the quote margins here and in verse 11, because the angel is still talking to Hagar. However, the repeated quote margins could be there to emphasize what the angel says next and/or to show that he paused or that he is changing the topic. Alternate translation: “Then the angel told her,” or “Then he added”

I will greatly increase your offspring

Quote: הַרְבָּ֥ה אַרְבֶּ֖ה אֶת זַרְעֵ֑⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The pronoun I refers to Yahweh here. So either the angel was representing Yahweh and speaking Yahweh’s words to Hagar or it was Yahweh himself who had taken on the form of an angel. Alternate translation: “I Yahweh will greatly multiply the number of your offspring so that”

so that they cannot be counted

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֥א יִסָּפֵ֖ר (1)

Alternate translation: “there will be too many to count,”

because of their abundance

Quote: מֵ⁠רֹֽב (1)

Alternate translation: “because of their large number.”

Genesis 16:11

Then the angel of Yahweh said to her

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר לָ⁠הּ֙ מַלְאַ֣ךְ יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

Alternate translation: “Finally the angel also said to her,” or “Finally he also told her,” or “Then the angel added”

Behold, {you are} pregnant, and you will bear a son

Quote: הִנָּ֥⁠ךְ הָרָ֖ה וְ⁠יֹלַ֣דְתְּ בֵּ֑ן (1)

Make sure it is clear in your translation that Hagar already knew that she was pregnant, but did not know she was having a son or what she should name him. Alternate translation: “Look as you know, you are expecting a child You will bear a son, and” or “Look you are pregnant with a son. After he is born,”

and you will call his name

Quote: וְ⁠קָרָ֤את שְׁמ⁠וֹ֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “give him the name”

Ishmael

Quote: יִשְׁמָעֵ֔אל (1)

Some translation teams make the meaning of Ishmael’s name explicit in their translation. Other teams put the meaning of his name in a footnote. See what you did for similar cases in Gen 3:20, 4:1, 16, 25; 6:29, 10:25, 11:9.

because Yahweh has listened to

Quote: כִּֽי שָׁמַ֥ע יְהוָ֖ה אֶל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

If you include the meaning of Ishmael’s name earlier in this verse, make sure it fits with how you translate this clause. Alternate translation: “because Yahweh heard” or “because Yahweh paid attention to”

your misery

Quote: עָנְיֵֽ⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The word that means listened to implies here that God also took action to help Hagar. Alternate translation: “your cries of misery and has helped you.”

Genesis 16:12

And he

Quote: וְ⁠ה֤וּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he is emphatic here, to emphasize Ishmael. Make sure that your translation refers here to Ishmael, not Yahweh. Alternate translation: “As for Ishmael, when he grows up, he”

will be a wild donkey of a man

Quote: יִהְיֶה֙ פֶּ֣רֶא אָדָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The angel compares Ishmael to a wild donkey. Consider whether or not your language can use a similar metaphor or a simile here. Alternate translation: “will be proud and free like a untamed donkey” or “will be like a untamed donkey that no one can control” or “will not be ruled by anyone else”

his hand against everyone and the hand of everyone against him

Quote: יָד֣⁠וֹ בַ⁠כֹּ֔ל וְ⁠יַ֥ד כֹּ֖ל בּ֑⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “He will be enemies with everyone.”

and he will live in the faces of

Quote: וְ⁠עַל־פְּנֵ֥י & יִשְׁכֹּֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

The rest of this verse forms a parallelism with the first half, emphasizing what Ishmael (and his descendants) will be like. Try to keep both parts of the parallelism in your translation, since each part has a different focus and the second part adds important information. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Yes he will even fight against”

all of his brothers

Quote: כָל אֶחָ֖י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The word brothers is used here to refer to relatives in general. Consider what is the best way to translate this synecdoche in your language. Alternate translation: “all of his own relatives.” or “all of his own family members.”

Genesis 16:13

Then she called the name of Yahweh who had spoken to her, “You {are} El Roi

Quote: וַ⁠תִּקְרָ֤א שֵׁם יְהוָה֙ הַ⁠דֹּבֵ֣ר אֵלֶ֔י⁠הָ אַתָּ֖ה אֵ֣ל רֳאִ֑י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Some translations transliterate (copy or borrow) the name El Roi from the Hebrew, some translate its meaning, and some do both. Decide what is best in your language.

because she said

Quote: כִּ֣י אָֽמְרָ֗ה (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “She named him that, because she had said to herself,”

Have I really seen here the back of {the one who} sees me

Quote: הֲ⁠גַ֥ם הֲלֹ֛ם רָאִ֖יתִי אַחֲרֵ֥י רֹאִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Hagar’s rhetorical question shows surprise and amazement. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your translation. Alternate translation: “How can it be that I was able to look at the back of the God who looks after me?” or “I just now saw the back of him who sees me!”

Genesis 16:14

For that {reason

Quote: עַל כֵּן֙ (1)

See how you translated this phrase in Gen 11:9.

they call the well

Quote: קָרָ֣א לַ⁠בְּאֵ֔ר (1)

Frequently in the Hebrew text, this phrase has a general meaning and does not refer to someone specific. Also, this well is the same as the spring in verse 7. For some languages, it may be necessary to translate these words the same way so that it is clear that they refer to the same place. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “the well is named” or “people call that well” or “the name of the well is”

Behold

Quote: הִנֵּ֥ה (1)

Alternate translation: “That well is still there”

it is} between Kadesh and Bered

Quote: בֵין קָדֵ֖שׁ וּ⁠בֵ֥ין בָּֽרֶד (1)

Be consistent here with how you spelled Kadesh in Gen 14:7.

Genesis 16:15

Then Hagar bore a son for Abram

Quote: וַ⁠תֵּ֧לֶד הָגָ֛ר לְ⁠אַבְרָ֖ם בֵּ֑ן (1)

Alternate translation: “After that, she returned home and gave birth to a son for Abram,”

and Abram called the name of his son, whom Hagar bore, Ishmael

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֨א אַבְרָ֧ם שֶׁם בְּנ֛⁠וֹ אֲשֶׁר יָלְדָ֥ה הָגָ֖ר יִשְׁמָעֵֽאל (1)

Alternate translation: “and he called his son whom she had Ishmael.” or “and he named their son Ishmael.”

Genesis 16:16

And Abram {was

Quote: וְ⁠אַבְרָ֕ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

For some languages it is more natural to omit the conjunction here. Do what is best in your language.

a son of

Quote: בֶּן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idioms

See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 5:32.

when Hagar bore Ishmael for Abram

Quote: בְּ⁠לֶֽדֶת הָגָ֥ר אֶת יִשְׁמָעֵ֖אל לְ⁠אַבְרָֽם (1)

See how you translated “bore … for Abram” in verse 15. Also, be consistent here with how you spelled Hagar in chapter 16 (verses 1, 4, 6-11, 13), and how you spelled Ishmael in verses 11, 12 and 15. Alternate translation: “when Hagar gave birth to Ishmael for him.”

Genesis 17

Genesis 17:1

Then Abram was a son of ninety-nine years

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֣י אַבְרָ֔ם בֶּן־תִּשְׁעִ֥ים שָׁנָ֖ה וְ⁠תֵ֣שַׁע שָׁנִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

Thirteen years have passed between the last verse of chapter 16 and the first verse of chapter 17. Consider what is the best way in your language to begin this new section. See how you translated “was a son of … years” in Gen 5:32. Alternate translation: “Years later, when Abram was 99 years old,”

and Yahweh appeared to Abram

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּרָ֨א יְהוָ֜ה אֶל אַבְרָ֗ם (1)

See how you translated this clause in Gen 12:7. Alternate translation: “Yahweh appeared to him” or “Yahweh visited him”

I {am} God Almighty

Quote: אֲנִי אֵ֣ל שַׁדַּ֔י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Most translation teams translate the meaning of God’s title here (God Almighty). A few teams transliterate the title as “El Shaddai” (as if it were a personal name) and put the meaning of the title in a footnote. Abram already knew that God’s personal name is Yahweh (Gen 12:8; 15:7-8), so he would have understood that God was using a title here (not a personal name). The title God Almighty emphasizes God’s authority and power. You could include a transliteration of this title in a footnote. Alternate translation: “I am Almighty God.” or “I am the all-powerful God.”

Walk before me

Quote: הִתְהַלֵּ֥ךְ לְ⁠פָנַ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idioms

This phrase is an idiom that means to habitually live according to God’s will. Alternate translation: “Walk in my presence” or “Live according to my will”

and be

Quote: וֶ⁠הְיֵ֥ה (1)

Alternate translation: “yes, you must be”

without blemish

Quote: תָמִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this idiom in Gen 6:9. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: “without fault.” or “upright.”

Genesis 17:2

And I will make my covenant

Quote: וְ⁠אֶתְּנָ֥ה בְרִיתִ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

Some translations begin this sentence without a conjunction. Do what is best in your language. See how you translated “cut/make/establish … covenant” in Gen 15:18, where the verb is different from here but has a similar meaning (“establish/seal” or “put into effect”). Alternate translation: “I will institute my covenant”

and I will multiply you very greatly

Quote: וְ⁠אַרְבֶּ֥ה אוֹתְ⁠ךָ֖ בִּ⁠מְאֹ֥ד מְאֹֽד (1)

Alternate translation: “and I will cause you to have very many descendants.” or “and I will increase the number of your descendants so that they are exceedingly numerous.”

Genesis 17:3

Then Abram fell on his face

Quote: וַ⁠יִּפֹּ֥ל אַבְרָ֖ם עַל־פָּנָ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Make sure that the translation of this clause does not sound like Abram fell down accidentally. Rather, he intentionally threw himself to the ground out of deep respect for God. Alternate translation: “Then Abram prostrated himself before God to show him respect,”

and God spoke with him, saying

Quote: וַ⁠יְדַבֵּ֥ר אִתּ֛⁠וֹ אֱלֹהִ֖ים לֵ⁠אמֹֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Some translations omit saying here because it is not natural in those languages. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “and God spoke to him and said,” or “and God continued speaking with Abram,” or “and God added,”

Genesis 17:4

As for} me, behold, my covenant with you {is} that you will be

Quote: אֲנִ֕י הִנֵּ֥ה בְרִיתִ֖⁠י אִתָּ֑⁠ךְ וְ⁠הָיִ֕יתָ (1)

In the Hebrew text, the pronoun me is emphatic both in form and in sentence position to emphasize that Yahweh is the one doing this. Alternate translation: “Look, this is my responsibility in my covenant with you: I will cause you to be” or “Look, this is what I will do to fulfill my covenant with you: I will make you”

the father of

Quote: לְ⁠אַ֖ב (1)

See how you translated this phrase in Gen 4:20, 21; 10:21.

a multitude of

Quote: הֲמ֥וֹן (1)

Alternate translation: “a large number of”

nations

Quote: גּוֹיִֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

See how you translated this term in Gen 10:5, 20, 31, 32. Alternate translation: “ethnic groups.”

Genesis 17:5

And your name will not be called Abram anymore

Quote: וְ⁠לֹא־יִקָּרֵ֥א ע֛וֹד אֶת־שִׁמְ⁠ךָ֖ אַבְרָ֑ם (1)

Alternate translation: “So your name will not be Abram anymore,” or “Your name will no longer be Abram,”

but your name will be Abraham

Quote: וְ⁠הָיָ֤ה שִׁמְ⁠ךָ֙ אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Instead, from now on it will be Abraham,” or “Rather, I am changing it now to Abraham,”

because I have made you

Quote: כִּ֛י & נְתַתִּֽי⁠ךָ (1)

The form of the Hebrew verb in this clause is completed aspect (have made) and shows certainty that God will do this. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: “because I will make you”

the father of a multitude of nations

Quote: אַב הֲמ֥וֹן גּוֹיִ֖ם (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 4. Alternate translation: “the ancestor of many ethnic groups.”

Genesis 17:6

And I will make you very, very fruitful

Quote: וְ⁠הִפְרֵתִ֤י אֹֽתְ⁠ךָ֙ בִּ⁠מְאֹ֣ד מְאֹ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

This verse repeats and elaborates on the last part of verse 5; it does not refer to different events. Consider what is the best way to begin this sentence in your language. Alternate translation: “Yes, I will make you exceedingly fruitful,” or “I will give you very many offspring”

and I will make you into nations

Quote: וּ⁠נְתַתִּ֖י⁠ךָ לְ⁠גוֹיִ֑ם (1)

Alternate translation: “so that you will be the father of many ethnic groups,” or “and I will cause your descendants to become many ethnic groups,”

and kings will come from you

Quote: וּ⁠מְלָכִ֖ים מִמְּ⁠ךָ֥ יֵצֵֽאוּ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated “king” in Gen 14:1-5. Alternate translation: “In fact, there will be kings who descend from you.” or “In fact, some of your descendants will become kings.”

Genesis 17:7

And I will establish my covenant between me and you

Quote: וַ⁠הֲקִמֹתִ֨י אֶת בְּרִיתִ֜⁠י בֵּינִ֣⁠י וּ⁠בֵינֶ֗⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

See how you translated a similar clause in verse 2. The pronouns you and your are singular in this clause and also later in this verse. Alternate translation: “I will make my covenant with you”

and your offspring after you

Quote: וּ⁠בֵ֨ין זַרְעֲ⁠ךָ֧ אַחֲרֶ֛י⁠ךָ (1)

Alternate translation: “and all your offspring who live after you” or “as well as all your offspring”

throughout their generations

Quote: לְ⁠דֹרֹתָ֖⁠ם (1)

Alternate translation: “for all future generations”

as an eternal covenant

Quote: לִ⁠בְרִ֣ית עוֹלָ֑ם (1)

For some languages it is better to break up this long sentence and begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “It will be a covenant that never ends,” or “It will be a covenant that lasts forever,”

to be God to you and to your offspring after you

Quote: לִ⁠הְי֤וֹת לְ⁠ךָ֙ לֵֽ⁠אלֹהִ֔ים וּֽ⁠לְ⁠זַרְעֲ⁠ךָ֖ אַחֲרֶֽי⁠ךָ (1)

Alternate translation: “that I will be the God who takes care of you and all your descendants.” or “that I will be the God whom you and all your descendants worship”

Genesis 17:8

And I will give to you and to your offspring after you

Quote: וְ⁠נָתַתִּ֣י לְ֠⁠ךָ וּ⁠לְ⁠זַרְעֲ⁠ךָ֨ אַחֲרֶ֜י⁠ךָ (1)

Alternate translation: “I will also give to you and your offspring”

the land of your sojournings

Quote: אֵ֣ת אֶ֣רֶץ מְגֻרֶ֗י⁠ךָ (1)

Alternate translation: “the land where you have been living as a outsider,”

all the land of Canaan

Quote: אֵ֚ת כָּל אֶ֣רֶץ כְּנַ֔עַן (1)

Alternate translation: “yes, the entire land of Canaan,”

as an eternal possession

Quote: לַ⁠אֲחֻזַּ֖ת עוֹלָ֑ם (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “It will be their land forever,”

and I will be God to them

Quote: וְ⁠הָיִ֥יתִי לָ⁠הֶ֖ם לֵ⁠אלֹהִֽים (1)

See how you translated the phrase “be God to you” in verse 7. Alternate translation: “and I will be the God who takes care of them.” or “I will be the God whom they worship”

Genesis 17:9

Then God said to Abraham

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר אֱלֹהִים֙ אֶל אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)

Some languages leave out this quote margin, because God is still speaking to the same person. See what you did for similar cases in Gen 16:10-11.

And you

Quote: וְ⁠אַתָּ֖ה (1)

In the Hebrew text, the pronoun you is emphatic both in form and in sentence position to shift the focus from talking about God’s part in the covenant (verses 4-8) to talking about Abraham’s part. Translate this phrase in a way that shows this change in focus. Alternate translation: “As for you,” or “Now as for your part in my covenant” or “Your responsibility in my agreement is that”

you must keep my covenant

Quote: אֶת בְּרִיתִ֣⁠י תִשְׁמֹ֑ר (1)

Alternate translation: “you must keep the requirements of my agreement,”

you and your offspring

Quote: אַתָּ֛ה וְ⁠זַרְעֲ⁠ךָ֥ (1)

For some languages it is better to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “both you and” or “That includes you and”

and your offspring after you

Quote: וְ⁠זַרְעֲ⁠ךָ֥ אַֽחֲרֶ֖י⁠ךָ (1)

Alternate translation: “all your descendants who live after you” or “all your offspring”

throughout their generations

Quote: לְ⁠דֹרֹתָֽ⁠ם (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 7, and a similar phrase in verse 8. Alternate translation: “including all generations to come.” or “for all future generations.”

Genesis 17:10

This {is} my covenant

Quote: זֹ֣את בְּרִיתִ֞⁠י (1)

Alternate translation: “This is what I require in my covenant” or “This is one of the requirements of my agreement”

which you must keep

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר תִּשְׁמְר֗וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

Notice that the pronoun you is plural here.

between me and you and

Quote: בֵּינִ⁠י֙ וּ⁠בֵ֣ינֵי⁠כֶ֔ם וּ⁠בֵ֥ין (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

The pronoun you is plural here and probably refers to Abraham and his family or household. Alternate translation: “the covenant that is between me and you all, including” or “the covenant I have made with all of you, including”

your offspring after you

Quote: זַרְעֲ⁠ךָ֖ אַחֲרֶ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

Notice that the pronouns your and you are singular here and refer to Abraham. Also, it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of some of the clauses in this sentence and say, “This is what I require in my covenant/agreement with you and your descendants who will live after you, which you all must keep/obey:” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “your descendants who will live after you:” or “all your descendants:”

Every male among you must be circumcised

Quote: הִמּ֥וֹל לָ⁠כֶ֖ם כָּל זָכָֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

Circumcision involves cutting the foreskin off the penis of a boy or man. Translate this clause in a way that does not offend or embarrass people. Some languages may need to be more discreet and say something general like “must cut off the male skin” or “must follow the male skin-cutting custom.” It may be necessary to include a footnote and/or an explanation in the glossary about this so that people understand what circumcision is, especially in areas where people cut their skin on other parts of the body for other reasons. Alternate translation: “You must circumcise all males who live with you.” or “You must cut off the male foreskin of every boy and man who lives among you.”

Genesis 17:11

Indeed, you must be circumcised {in} the flesh of your foreskins

Quote: וּ⁠נְמַלְתֶּ֕ם אֵ֖ת בְּשַׂ֣ר עָרְלַתְ⁠כֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

Notice that in the Hebrew text, the pronouns you and your are plural in this verse. Also, be consistent here with how you translated “circumcise” in verse 10. Alternate translation: “Yes, all the males among you must have your foreskins cut off,” or “Indeed you must circumcise the foreskin of all the males among you”

and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and you

Quote: וְ⁠הָיָה֙ לְ⁠א֣וֹת בְּרִ֔ית בֵּינִ֖⁠י וּ⁠בֵינֵי⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

The pronoun you is plural here. Alternate translation: “and that practice will serve as the sign that reminds you of my agreement I made with all of you.” or “and that practice will show you all that I made my covenant with you.”

Genesis 17:12

So a son of eight days must be circumcised

Quote: וּ⁠בֶן שְׁמֹנַ֣ת יָמִ֗ים יִמּ֥וֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language. Alternate translation: “Every eight-day-old baby boy must be circumcised by you,” or “So you must circumcise every eight-day-old baby boy,”

every male

Quote: כָּל זָכָ֖ר (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “and every other male” or “as well as all other males” or (2) “yes, every male child”. The following context suggests that this phrase includes males of all ages, not just babies, since male slaves who were bought would especially include adult males.

throughout your generations

Quote: לְ⁠דֹרֹתֵי⁠כֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

It may be more natural to put this phrase at the beginning of this verse and say, “For all future generations you must circumcise every baby boy who is eight days old, as well as all other males among your people …” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “for all future generations,”

the one born in {your} house

Quote: יְלִ֣יד בָּ֔יִת (1)

This phrase refers to Abraham’s future sons, including Isaac (Gen 21:4) and his concubines’ sons (25:6), and may also refer to the sons of Abraham’s servants. Also, for some languages it may be better to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “including males who are born in your family” or “That includes those from your own family”

and the one bought with money from any son of a foreigner, who {is} not your offspring

Quote: וּ⁠מִקְנַת כֶּ֨סֶף֙ מִ⁠כֹּ֣ל בֶּן נֵכָ֔ר אֲשֶׁ֛ר לֹ֥א מִֽ⁠זַּרְעֲ⁠ךָ֖ (1)

Alternate translation: “and those whom you buy from foreigners as slaves who are not your descendants.” or “as well as those who are not your offspring but are slaves whom you have bought from foreigners.”

Genesis 17:13

He must surely be circumcised

Quote: הִמּ֧וֹל יִמּ֛וֹל (1)

This verse repeats and emphasizes what was just said in verse 12. Consider what is the best way to communicate this emphasis in your language. Alternate translation: “Yes, you must surely circumcise all of them,”

the one born in your house and the one bought with your money

Quote: יְלִ֥יד בֵּֽיתְ⁠ךָ֖ וּ⁠מִקְנַ֣ת כַּסְפֶּ֑⁠ךָ (1)

See how you translated these phrases in verse 12. It may be best to translate them in a slightly different way here because of the repetition. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “including those who are born in your household as well as those whom you buy as a slave” or “regardless of whether they are males from your own household or slaves whom you have bought.”

So my covenant will be

Quote: וְ⁠הָיְתָ֧ה בְרִיתִ֛⁠י (1)

Alternate translation: “That is how the sign of my agreement must be marked” or “That is how you must mark my covenant”

in your flesh

Quote: בִּ⁠בְשַׂרְ⁠כֶ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The word flesh refers here to the body in general. Translate this in a way that is clear and natural in your language.

as an eternal covenant

Quote: לִ⁠בְרִ֥ית עוֹלָֽם (1)

See how you translated an eternal covenant in verse 7. Alternate translation: “to show that it is an permanent covenant” or “to show that it is a covenant that never ends.”

Genesis 17:14

And {as for} an uncircumcised male who is not circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin

Quote: וְ⁠עָרֵ֣ל זָכָ֗ר אֲשֶׁ֤ר לֹֽא יִמּוֹל֙ אֶת בְּשַׂ֣ר עָרְלָת֔⁠וֹ (1)

In this context, male refers to men who refuse to be circumcised, not baby boys. Alternate translation: “But as for every man who is not circumcised,” or “In fact, if a man refuses to let you circumcise him,” or “If a man refuses to be circumcised,”

indeed that person must be cut off from his people

Quote: וְ⁠נִכְרְתָ֛ה הַ⁠נֶּ֥פֶשׁ הַ⁠הִ֖וא מֵ⁠עַמֶּ֑י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase cut off from his people is an idiom which means that the person is an outcast of society and can no longer associate closely with other people in that society. Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom that would work well here. Alternate translation: “that person must be sent away and not be allowed to fellowship with his people” or “you must send him away and not allow him to fellowship with his people”

he has broken

Quote: הֵפַֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This phrase has the opposite meaning of “keep” or “obey” in verse 9. Consider whether or not your language has an idiom like broken that means to not do what has been agreed upon or to disobey what was commanded. Alternate translation: “because he has not kept”

my covenant

Quote: אֶת בְּרִיתִ֖⁠י (1)

Alternate translation: “the rules of my covenant” or “what I require in my covenant”

Genesis 17:15

Then God said to Abraham

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר אֱלֹהִים֙ אֶל אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)

Alternate translation: “Later God also said to Abraham,”

As for} Sarai your wife

Quote: שָׂרַ֣י אִשְׁתְּ⁠ךָ֔ (1)

This phrase is first in this quote to change the focus to Sarai and emphasize her. Consider what is the best way to do this in your language.

do not call her name Sarai

Quote: לֹא תִקְרָ֥א אֶת שְׁמָ֖⁠הּ שָׂרָ֑י (1)

Alternate translation: “her name will no longer be Sarai,”

because her name {will be} Sarah

Quote: כִּ֥י שָׂרָ֖ה שְׁמָֽ⁠הּ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “because from now on her name will be Sarah.” or “Rather her name is now Sarah.” or “Rather, from now on it will be Sarah.”

Genesis 17:16

and I will also give to you a son from her

Quote: וְ⁠גַ֨ם נָתַ֧תִּי מִמֶּ֛⁠נָּה לְ⁠ךָ֖ בֵּ֑ן (1)

Alternate translation: “and I will definitely enable her to have a son for you.” or “and I will definitely give you a son by her.”

Indeed I will bless her

Quote: וּ⁠בֵֽרַכְתִּ֨י⁠הָ֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “In fact, I will prosper her” or “Yes, I will bless her”

and she will become nations

Quote: וְ⁠הָֽיְתָ֣ה לְ⁠גוֹיִ֔ם (1)

See how you translated nations in verses 4-6. Alternate translation: “so that she will become the mother of many ethnic groups,” or “so much that she will have many descendants that will form new ethnic groups,”

kings of peoples will come from her

Quote: מַלְכֵ֥י עַמִּ֖ים מִמֶּ֥⁠נָּה יִהְיֽוּ (1)

See how you translated a similar clause in verse 6. Alternate translation: “and kings over peoples will descend from her.” or “and some of her descendants will even be kings who rule over many ethnic groups.”

Genesis 17:17

Then Abraham fell on his face

Quote: וַ⁠יִּפֹּ֧ל אַבְרָהָ֛ם עַל־פָּנָ֖י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

See how you translated a similar clause in verse 3. Alternate translation: “When Abraham heard that, he bowed with his face to the ground before God to show respect,” or “Then Abraham prostrated himself before God to show him respect,”

and he laughed and said in his heart

Quote: וַ⁠יִּצְחָ֑ק וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר בְּ⁠לִבּ֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase said in his heart is an idiom that refers to something Abraham thought, but did not say out loud. Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom that fits well here. Alternate translation: “but he laughed to himself and thought,”

Will {a child} be born to a son of 100 years

Quote: הַ⁠לְּ⁠בֶ֤ן מֵאָֽה שָׁנָה֙ יִוָּלֵ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Abraham uses the rhetorical questions in verse 17 to express strong disbelief. If that is not clear in your language, you could translate the rhetorical questions as statements, with or without a tag question. Alternate translation: “How can a hundred-year-old man like myself father a son” or “Certainly it is not possible for a hundred-year-old man like me to father a son” or “Certainly a hundred-year-old man like myself cannot father a child, can he?”

And will Sarah who is a daughter of ninety years bear {a child

Quote: וְ⁠אִ֨ם שָׂרָ֔ה הֲ⁠בַת תִּשְׁעִ֥ים שָׁנָ֖ה תֵּלֵֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Alternate translation: “And how can Sarah who is 90 years old still have a baby” or “And certainly it is not possible for a 90-year-old woman like Sarah to still bear a baby” or “And certainly a 90-year-old woman like Sarah cannot still give birth to a baby can she?”

Genesis 17:18

Then Abraham said to God

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֥אמֶר אַבְרָהָ֖ם אֶל הָֽ⁠אֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “So he said to God,”

If only Ishmael

Quote: ל֥וּ יִשְׁמָעֵ֖אל (1)

Consider what is the best way to express this strong wish or hope in your language. Alternate translation: “Oh, that Ishmael could”

might live before you

Quote: יִחְיֶ֥ה לְ⁠פָנֶֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This idiom means to live under God’s care and be blessed by him. Alternate translation: “live in your presence!”

Genesis 17:19

Then God said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “God said to him,”

No

Quote: אֲבָל֙ (1)

Consider whether it is best in your language to begin God’s response to Abraham here with a No or a “Yes”. Although God agrees that he will bless Ishmael (verse 20), he disagrees with Abraham’s request to allow Ishmael to be the one God establishes his covenant with. Alternate translation: “No, rather” or “Yes, however”

Sarah your wife

Quote: שָׂרָ֣ה אִשְׁתְּ⁠ךָ֗ (1)

Here God emphasizes what he said in verse 16 about Sarah. Alternate translation: “as I said, your wife Sarah is the one who”

is bearing a son for you

Quote: יֹלֶ֤דֶת לְ⁠ךָ֙ בֵּ֔ן (1)

Alternate translation: “will bear you a son,”

and you will call his name Isaac

Quote: וְ⁠קָרָ֥אתָ אֶת שְׁמ֖⁠וֹ יִצְחָ֑ק (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated “call … name …” in verse 15. Alternate translation: “and you must name him Isaac.” or “You must give him the name Isaac.”

And I will establish my covenant with him

Quote: וַ⁠הֲקִמֹתִ֨י אֶת בְּרִיתִ֥⁠י אִתּ֛⁠וֹ (1)

See how you translated a similar clause in verse 7. Alternate translation: “I will make my covenant with him” or “He is the one I will establish my covenant with,”

as an eternal covenant

Quote: לִ⁠בְרִ֥ית עוֹלָ֖ם (1)

Alternate translation: “as a permanent covenant”

for his offspring after him

Quote: לְ⁠זַרְע֥⁠וֹ אַחֲרָֽי⁠ו (1)

Alternate translation: “that will also be for all his offspring who live after him.” or “that I will also keep with all his offspring who live after him.”

Genesis 17:20

And as for Ishmael, I have heard you

Quote: וּֽ⁠לְ⁠יִשְׁמָעֵ֘אל שְׁמַעְתִּי⁠ךָ֒ (1)

Alternate translation: “As for Ishmael, I have heard your request for him.”

Behold

Quote: הִנֵּ֣ה (1)

Alternate translation: “So behold” or “So here is what I will do:”

I will bless him

Quote: בֵּרַ֣כְתִּי אֹת֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated bless in verse 16. Alternate translation: “I will also prosper him,”

and multiply him very greatly

Quote: וְ⁠הִרְבֵּיתִ֥י אֹת֖⁠וֹ בִּ⁠מְאֹ֣ד מְאֹ֑ד (1)

Alternate translation: “so that he has a great many descendants.”

He will father

Quote: יוֹלִ֔יד (1)

Alternate translation: “In fact, he will have”

twelve rulers

Quote: שְׁנֵים עָשָׂ֤ר נְשִׂיאִם֙ (1)

Many translations have “princes” here, but these Ishmaelite rulers were not actually sons of a king, so it is better to use a more general term in your translation. Alternate translation: “twelve sons who become chiefs,” or “twelve sons who will be great leaders,”

and I will make him into a great nation

Quote: וּ⁠נְתַתִּ֖י⁠ו לְ⁠ג֥וֹי גָּדֽוֹל (1)

Alternate translation: “and I will make him the father of a great ethnic group.” or “and I will make him and his descendants become a great ethnic group.”

Genesis 17:21

However, my covenant I will establish

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת בְּרִיתִ֖⁠י אָקִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

In the Hebrew text, the phrase my covenant is put before the verb in order to change the topic to God’s covenant. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language. Also consider again how you translated covenant in verses 2, 4, 7, 9-11, 13-14, 19, 21. Alternate translation: “But I will make my covenant”

whom Sarah will bear for you

Quote: אֲשֶׁר֩ תֵּלֵ֨ד לְ⁠ךָ֤ שָׂרָה֙ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, see how you translated “is bearing … for you” in verse 19. Alternate translation: “whom Sarah will give birth to for you”

by this time in the next year

Quote: לַ⁠מּוֹעֵ֣ד הַ⁠זֶּ֔ה בַּ⁠שָּׁנָ֖ה הָ⁠אַחֶֽרֶת (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “by/at this time/season next year.” or (2) “at the appointed/set time next year.”

Genesis 17:22

Then he finished speaking with him

Quote: וַ⁠יְכַ֖ל לְ⁠דַבֵּ֣ר אִתּ֑⁠וֹ (1)

See how you translated “spoke with him” in verse 3. Alternate translation: “When God had finished speaking with Abraham,”

and God went up from Abraham

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֣עַל אֱלֹהִ֔ים מֵ⁠עַ֖ל אַבְרָהָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider whether to use a noun or a pronoun to refer to God and Abraham at each point in this verse. Do what is clear and natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he went up from Abraham to heaven.” or “he left him and ascended to heaven.” or “he left him.”

Genesis 17:23

Then Abraham took

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקַּ֨ח אַבְרָהָ֜ם (1)

Alternate translation: “Then Abraham brought together”

and everyone bought with his money

Quote: וְ⁠אֵת֙ כָּל מִקְנַ֣ת כַּסְפּ֔⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “as well as all the male slaves whom he had bought,”

every male among the men of Abraham’s house

Quote: כָּל זָכָ֕ר בְּ⁠אַנְשֵׁ֖י בֵּ֣ית אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)

This phrase refers to everyone mentioned in the first half of this verse, including all males of all ages, not just men.

and he circumcised the flesh of their foreskins on that very day

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֜מָל אֶת בְּשַׂ֣ר עָרְלָתָ֗⁠ם בְּ⁠עֶ֨צֶם֙ הַ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠זֶּ֔ה (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “and on that same day he cut off their foreskins,”

just as God had told him

Quote: כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֛ר דִּבֶּ֥ר אִתּ֖⁠וֹ אֱלֹהִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of the clauses in this verse and say, “Then that very/same day, Abraham did just/exactly as God had told/commanded him to do: He took/gathered …” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “just as God had commanded him to do.”

Genesis 17:24

And Abraham

Quote: וְ⁠אַ֨בְרָהָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background

The information in verses 24 and 25 is background information. Many languages have a specific conjunction or transitional phrase that is used to introduce this kind of information. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Now Abraham”

was} a son of 99 years

Quote: בֶּן תִּשְׁעִ֥ים וָ⁠תֵ֖שַׁע שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

See how you translated “a son of … years” in verse 1. Alternate translation: “was ninety-nine years old”

when he was circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin

Quote: בְּ⁠הִמֹּל֖⁠וֹ בְּשַׂ֥ר עָרְלָתֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

We do not know who circumcised Abraham. Some Jewish scholars think it was Shem and some others think Abraham did it himself. However, the Hebrew text does not say who did it, so in your translation it is best to also not specify who did it. Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language. Alternate translation: “when his foreskin was cut off,”

Genesis 17:25

and Ishmael his son

Quote: וְ⁠יִשְׁמָעֵ֣אל בְּנ֔⁠וֹ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language. Alternate translation: “His son Ishmael”

was} a son of thirteen years

Quote: בֶּן שְׁלֹ֥שׁ עֶשְׂרֵ֖ה שָׁנָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “was 13 years old”

when he was circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin

Quote: בְּ⁠הִ֨מֹּל֔⁠וֹ אֵ֖ת בְּשַׂ֥ר עָרְלָתֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

See how you translated this clause in verse 24. Alternate translation: “when his foreskin was cut off.” or “when he was circumcised.” or “when he circumcised him.”

Genesis 17:26

On that very day

Quote: בְּ⁠עֶ֨צֶם֙ הַ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠זֶּ֔ה (1)

Verses 26 and 27 repeat what happened in verse 23 to emphasize what happened. Make sure in your translation that it does not sound like Abraham and Ishmael were circumcised twice. See how you translated “on that very/same day” in verse 23. Alternate translation: “So it was, on that very day”

Abraham was circumcised, and Ishmael his son

Quote: נִמּ֖וֹל אַבְרָהָ֑ם וְ⁠יִשְׁמָעֵ֖אל בְּנֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

Abraham is the one who circumcised his son Ishmael (verse 23). See how you translated “he was circumcised” in verse 24. Alternate translation: “Abraham was circumcised, and he circumcised his son Ishmael.”

Genesis 17:27

the one born in his house

Quote: יְלִ֣יד בָּ֔יִת (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verses 12 and 23.

and the one bought with money

Quote: וּ⁠מִקְנַת־כֶּ֖סֶף (1)

See how you translated a similar clause in verses 12 and 23. Alternate translation: “as well as those whom he had bought as slaves”

from the son of a foreigner

Quote: מֵ⁠אֵ֣ת בֶּן נֵכָ֑ר (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 12.

were circumcised with him

Quote: נִמֹּ֖לוּ אִתּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

For some languages it may be better to move this phrase earlier in this verse and say, “And all the other males in his/Abraham’s household were also circumcised, including those who had been born …” Do what is best in your language. Also, consider again how you translated circumcised in verses 10-14, 23-27.

Genesis 18

Genesis 18:1

Then Yahweh appeared to him

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּרָ֤א אֵלָי⁠ו֙ יְהוָ֔ה (1)

See how you translated appeared in Gen 12:7 and 17:1. Also, consider whether it is better to refer to Abraham here with a pronoun or with his name in your language. Alternate translation: “Then one day Yahweh came again to him” or “One day Yahweh visited Abraham again”

by the terebinth trees of Mamre

Quote: בְּ⁠אֵלֹנֵ֖י מַמְרֵ֑א (1)

See how you translated this phrase in Gen 13:18, 14:13, and a similar phrase in Gen 12:6.

and he was sitting

Quote: וְ⁠ה֛וּא יֹשֵׁ֥ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns

Alternate translation: “as Abraham was sitting”

at} the opening of the tent

Quote: פֶּֽתַח הָ⁠אֹ֖הֶל (1)

The entrance to the tent was an opening that could be closed by a large piece of cloth or animal skin. It did not have a solid wood door like a house has. See how you translated tent in Gen 4:20. Alternate translation: “at the doorway of his tent” or “by the front of his tent”

in the heat of the day

Quote: כְּ⁠חֹ֥ם הַ⁠יּֽוֹם (1)

Alternate translation: “during the hot time of the day.”

Genesis 18:2

And he lifted his eyes and looked

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשָּׂ֤א עֵינָי⁠ו֙ וַ⁠יַּ֔רְא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translate this phrase in Gen 22:13. Alternate translation: “He looked up”

and behold, three men were standing

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּה֙ שְׁלֹשָׁ֣ה אֲנָשִׁ֔ים נִצָּבִ֖ים (1)

Alternate translation: “and noticed that there were three men standing” or “and was surprised to see three men standing”

nearby him

Quote: עָלָ֑י⁠ו (1)

Translate this phrase in a way that fits with the fact that the men were far enough away from Abraham that he could run over to them (as he did in the next sentence). Alternate translation: “not too far away from him.”

And {when} he saw {them

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֗רְא (1)

Alternate translation: “When he saw them,”

then he ran from the entrance of the tent

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֤רָץ & מִ⁠פֶּ֣תַח הָ⁠אֹ֔הֶל (1)

Alternate translation: “he got up from where he was and ran” or “he got up and ran to them”

to meet them

Quote: לִ⁠קְרָאתָ⁠ם֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “to welcome them.”

Then he bowed to the ground

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁתַּ֖חוּ אָֽרְצָ⁠ה (1)

Compare how you translated a phrase that has a similar meaning (“fell on his face”) in Gen 17:3, 17. Alternate translation: “Then he bowed low before them with his forehead to the ground to show respect,” or “Then he prostrated himself on the ground in front of them to show respect,”

Genesis 18:3

and he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּאמַ֑ר (1)

Alternate translation: “and said to them,”

My lords

Quote: אֲדֹנָ֗⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics

Abraham uses lords here as a polite address to the three men. The Hebrew word “lord” can also be a reference to God, but notice that at this point Abraham probably thought he was talking to men or angels. It wasn’t until later that he realized that one of them was Yahweh (verse 14). Alternate translation: “My masters,” or “Gentlemen,”

if I have found favor in your eyes

Quote: אִם נָ֨א מָצָ֤אתִי חֵן֙ בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)

The pronoun your is singular here in the Hebrew text, and also in the next clause. It could be that Abraham is addressing each of the three men simultaneously, or that he is addressing their leader or spokesman. Alternate translation: “if you are satisfied with me,” or “if you would honor me with your presence,”

please do not pass by your servant

Quote: אַל נָ֥א תַעֲבֹ֖ר מֵ⁠עַ֥ל עַבְדֶּֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Abraham refers to himself as a servant here in order to show respect to his guests. Alternate translation: “please stay here for a while as my guests.”

Genesis 18:4

Please let a little water be brought

Quote: יֻקַּֽח נָ֣א מְעַט מַ֔יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

Saying a little was a polite way of showing generosity. Make sure your translation does not sound here like Abraham was only offering the men a tiny bit of water; he or his servants were going to bring them enough water to wash their feet. Alternate translation: “Let my servants bring you some water,”

Then you can wash your feet

Quote: וְ⁠רַחֲצ֖וּ רַגְלֵי⁠כֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

People wore sandals and their feet would get dusty when they traveled. So it was customary to offer guests water to wash the dust off their feet. Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language. Also, notice that the pronouns you and your are plural here in the Hebrew text. Alternate translation: “That way you all can wash the dust off your feet”

and rest yourselves

Quote: וְ⁠הִֽשָּׁעֲנ֖וּ (1)

Alternate translation: “and then relax here”

Genesis 18:5

And I will bring

Quote: וְ⁠אֶקְחָ֨ה (1)

Alternate translation: “I will also get you” or “Let me also get you”

a morsel of

Quote: פַת (1)

Saying a morsel was a polite way of showing generosity. Make sure your translation does not sound here like Abraham was only offering the men a tiny bit of bread; he was going to give them plenty of food to eat. Alternate translation: “a little bit of”

bread

Quote: לֶ֜חֶם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Since bread was a common staple of their diet, it is often used in the Bible to refer to food in general. Alternate translation: “bread for you to eat.”

so that you can refresh your hearts

Quote: וְ⁠סַעֲד֤וּ לִבְּ⁠כֶם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Notice that the pronouns you and your are plural in this quote in the Hebrew text and refer to Abraham’s three guests. Alternate translation: “Then you can be refreshed”

before you go away

Quote: אַחַ֣ר תַּעֲבֹ֔רוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “and then continue on your way,” or “before you continue traveling,”

since you have come to your servant

Quote: כִּֽי־עַל־כֵּ֥ן עֲבַרְתֶּ֖ם עַֽל עַבְדְּ⁠כֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be more natural to put this clause at the beginning of this verse and say, “Since you are here with me, let me also bring some food …” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “now that you have come to me.” or “since you are here with me.”

And they said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמְר֔וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “So they said to him,” or “The men replied to him,”

Alright

Quote: כֵּ֥ן (2)

The word used here in the Hebrew text shows agreement or acceptance. Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Very well,” or “That is good”

do as you have said

Quote: תַּעֲשֶׂ֖ה כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֥ר דִּבַּֽרְתָּ (1)

Alternate translation: “do what you have suggested.”

Genesis 18:6

into the tent to Sarah

Quote: הָ⁠אֹ֖הֱלָ⁠ה אֶל שָׂרָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “to Sarah inside the tent”

and said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֗אמֶר (1)

Alternate translation: “and said to her,”

Hurry! {Prepare

Quote: מַהֲרִ֞י (1)

Alternate translation: “Quickly use” or “Quickly prepare”

three seahs of

Quote: שְׁלֹ֤שׁ סְאִים֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

It is not certain how much three seahs was, but it is thought that it was more than 20 quarts/liters. It was enough flour to make bread for many people, just as the calf (verse 7) provided enough meat for many people and showed generous hospitality. Besides Abraham’s guests, others in his household may have also joined in eating the feast. Alternate translation: “three large scoops”

fine flour

Quote: קֶ֣מַח סֹ֔לֶת (1)

Alternate translation: “of good quality flour.” or “of the best flour.”

Knead {it} and make loaves

Quote: ל֖וּשִׁי וַ⁠עֲשִׂ֥י עֻגֽוֹת (1)

The Hebrew word for loaves here is often translated “cakes”, which probably refers to their flat, round shape (similar to biscuits). However, make sure your translation of this word does not sound like a dessert, because this bread was not sweet. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Knead the dough and make it into loaves” or “and bake some loaves of flat bread.” or “and make some bread.”

Genesis 18:7

Then Abraham ran to the herd

Quote: וְ⁠אֶל־הַ⁠בָּקָ֖ר רָ֣ץ אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns

Alternate translation: “Then he hurriedly left the tent and went to his herd of cattle” or “Next he quickly went outside to his herd of cattle”

and selected

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקַּ֨ח (1)

Alternate translation: “and picked out”

a tender and choice calf

Quote: בֶּן בָּקָ֜ר רַ֤ךְ וָ⁠טוֹב֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “one of his best calves that would be tasty to eat.”

Then he gave it

Quote: וַ⁠יִּתֵּ֣ן (1)

The word gave means Abram brought the calf to his servant and put him in charge of preparing its meat for a meal. Make sure your translation does not sound like the calf was a gift. Alternate translation: “Then he took the calf” or “Then he turned it over”

and he hurried to prepare it

Quote: וַ⁠יְמַהֵ֖ר לַ⁠עֲשׂ֥וֹת אֹתֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Make sure it is clear in your translation that this clause refers to the servant, not Abraham. Alternate translation: “and his servant quickly prepared it.” or “who quickly slaughtered it and roasted it.”

Genesis 18:8

Then he took

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקַּ֨ח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Make sure that your translation of this phrase refers to Abraham, not his servant. Alternate translation: “Then he got”

curds

Quote: חֶמְאָ֜ה (1)

This term refers to churned, fermented milk that has curdled. Alternate translation: “some curds”

and milk

Quote: וְ⁠חָלָ֗ב (1)

Alternate translation: “along with milk” or “as well as milk”

and the calf

Quote: וּ⁠בֶן הַ⁠בָּקָר֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “and the meat from the calf”

that he had prepared

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָשָׂ֔ה (1)

Alternate translation: “that he had his servant prepare,” or “that the servant had cooked”

and he set it before them

Quote: וַ⁠יִּתֵּ֖ן לִ⁠פְנֵי⁠הֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Since verse 2 was the last time the three men were mentioned, it may be clearer and more natural to make them explicit here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “and he served all of it to the three men to eat.” or “and he set it all before his three guests to eat.”

and they ate

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּאכֵֽלוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

As the host, Abraham stood nearby his guests in order to wait on them and make sure they had everything that they needed. Alternate translation: “and waited on them while they ate.”

Genesis 18:9

Then they said to him

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּאמְר֣וּ אֵׄלָׄ֔יׄ⁠וׄ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

The Hebrew text uses a plural pronoun here (they) to refer to one of the three men who spoke to Abraham on behalf of them all (See verse 10). Many languages can use they or “the men” in the same way. Make sure your translation of this quote margin does not sound like all three of the men spoke at the same time. Alternate translation: “Then one of the men asked him”

And he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֖אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Make sure it is clear in your translation that Abraham is the one speaking here. Alternate translation: “He answered him,”

Behold, in the tent

Quote: הִנֵּ֥ה בָ⁠אֹֽהֶל (1)

Alternate translation: “She is there inside the tent.”

Genesis 18:10

Then he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֗אמֶר (1)

This phrase refers to the man in verse 9 who spoke on behalf of himself and the other two men. We find out in verse 13 that the man was actually Yahweh. However, at this point Abraham and Sarah probably did not yet know who he was, so it is better to not specify who he was here, in order to keep that suspense in your translation. Alternate translation: “Then that man”

Then he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֗אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “said to him” or “spoke again to Abraham,”

I will surely return

Quote: שׁ֣וֹב אָשׁ֤וּב (1)

Alternate translation: “I will certainly come back”

to you

Quote: אֵלֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “to you here”

at the time of life

Quote: כָּ⁠עֵ֣ת חַיָּ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

For some languages it may be more natural to move this time phrase to the beginning of this quote and say, “Next year at this time I will surely/definitely return …” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “at this season next year,” or “next year at this time”

and behold

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּה (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “and when I do,” or “At that time,”

Sarah your wife will have a son

Quote: בֵ֖ן לְ⁠שָׂרָ֣ה אִשְׁתֶּ֑⁠ךָ (1)

This means that Sarah would have a son with her when Yahweh returns. It does not mean that she would give birth at that time. Alternate translation: “your wife Sarah will have a baby boy with her.” or “your wife Sarah will already have a baby son”

And Sarah was listening

Quote: וְ⁠שָׂרָ֥ה שֹׁמַ֛עַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background

This sentence gives information about something that was happening while the man was talking. Translate this in a way that makes that clear in your language. Alternate translation: “Now Sarah was eavesdropping” or “Sarah was eavesdropping”

at} the opening of the tent

Quote: פֶּ֥תַח הָ⁠אֹ֖הֶל (1)

See how you translated “the entrance of the tent” in verse 1. Alternate translation: “inside the doorway of the tent,”

and it {was} behind him

Quote: וְ⁠ה֥וּא אַחֲרָֽי⁠ו (1)

Notice that the pronoun it refers to the entrance to the tent (where Sarah was). Alternate translation: “which was right behind”

was} behind him

Quote: אַחֲרָֽי⁠ו (1)

The pronoun him is ambiguous here. It can refer to: (1) “the man” or (2) “Abraham”

Genesis 18:11

Now Abraham and Sarah

Quote: וְ⁠אַבְרָהָ֤ם וְ⁠שָׂרָה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background

This verse gives background information that is important to what happens next. Some languages use a conjunction such as Now here to introduce this kind of information, while other languages omit the conjunction, especially if Now is used to begin the last sentence in verse 10. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Abraham and she” or “Sarah and Abraham”

were} old, advanced in days

Quote: זְקֵנִ֔ים בָּאִ֖ים בַּ⁠יָּמִ֑ים (1)

Alternate translation: “were already quite old” or “were very elderly”

the way of women had ceased to be with Sarah

Quote: חָדַל֙ לִ⁠הְי֣וֹת לְ⁠שָׂרָ֔ה אֹ֖רַח כַּ⁠נָּשִֽׁים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

The Hebrew text has an idiom here that is a polite way of saying that Sarah had reached menopause and so was not able to have children. Other languages may have a similar idiom. Make sure your translation of this clause will not offend or embarrass people when it is read aloud in public. Alternate translation: “so that she was much older than the normal age for bearing children.” or “so that she was far past the time that she could bear children.”

Genesis 18:12

So Sarah laughed within herself

Quote: וַ⁠תִּצְחַ֥ק שָׂרָ֖ה בְּ⁠קִרְבָּ֣⁠הּ (1)

See how you translated laughed in Gen 17:17 where Abraham also laughed to himself. Alternate translation: “So Sarah laughed to herself in disbelief”

and said

Quote: לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר (1)

Alternate translation: “and thought to herself,” or “and asked herself,”

After I am worn out

Quote: אַחֲרֵ֤י בְלֹתִ⁠י֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Alternate translation: “Since my body is now worn out,” or “Now that I am too old to conceive,”

will I have pleasure

Quote: הָֽיְתָה לִּ֣⁠י עֶדְנָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Sarah uses a rhetorical question to express her strong emotion and disbelief. Consider whether or not it is best to use a rhetorical question here in your language. Alternate translation: “will I still have this pleasure?”

And my lord {is} old

Quote: וַֽ⁠אדֹנִ֖⁠י זָקֵֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

The phrase my lord is a title of respect that Sarah uses to refer to Abraham as her husband. Also, for some languages it may be better to change the order of some of the clauses in this verse and say, “I am too old to conceive and my husband is also very/too old! How can I possibly still have/experience the pleasure of having a child?” or “It doesn’t seem possible that I could have/experience the pleasure of having a child now that I am too old to conceive. Besides that, my husband is also very/too old!” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Besides that, my master is also too old!”

Genesis 18:13

Then Yahweh said to Abraham

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֥אמֶר יְהוָ֖ה אֶל אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

The way you translate this quote margin will depend on whether you translate the rest of this verse as a rhetorical question or a statement. Alternate translation: “Then Yahweh asked Abraham,”

Why {is it} that Sarah laughed, saying

Quote: לָ֣⁠מָּה זֶּה֩ צָחֲקָ֨ה שָׂרָ֜ה לֵ⁠אמֹ֗ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Yahweh uses rhetorical question in verses 13-14 to confront Sarah’s disbelief and to emphasize that nothing is too difficult for God to do. Consider whether or not it is best to use rhetorical questions here in your language. Alternate translation: “Why did Sarah laugh to herself and say” or “Sarah should not have laughed and thought to herself,” or “Sarah should not have laughed, thinking,”

Will I really bear {a child} when I am old

Quote: הַ⁠אַ֥ף אֻמְנָ֛ם אֵלֵ֖ד וַ⁠אֲנִ֥י זָקַֽנְתִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

Consider whether it is more natural in your language to make this embedded quote a direct or indirect quote. Make sure that your translation of I refers here to Sarah, not Yahweh. Alternate translation: “I am too old to bear a child!”

Genesis 18:14

Is anything too hard for Yahweh

Quote: הֲ⁠יִפָּלֵ֥א מֵ⁠יְהוָ֖ה דָּבָ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Alternate translation: “Is there anything that is too hard for Yahweh to do?” or “Nothing is too hard for Yahweh to do!”

At the appointed time

Quote: לַ⁠מּוֹעֵ֞ד (1)

Alternate translation: “At the time that I have decided,”

I will return to you

Quote: אָשׁ֥וּב אֵלֶ֛י⁠ךָ (1)

Consider how you translated this in verse 10. Alternate translation: “I will come back here to visit you”

at the time of life

Quote: כָּ⁠עֵ֥ת חַיָּ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

See how you translated this idiom in verse 10. Also, for some languages it may be better to put this phrase right after the first time phrase in this verse and say, “At the time that I have decided, which will be this time next year, I will return here to visit you,” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “Yes, I will return at this time next year,” or “—it will be at this time next year—”

and Sarah will have a son

Quote: וּ⁠לְ⁠שָׂרָ֥ה בֵֽן (1)

See how you translated a similar clause in verse 10. Alternate translation: “and Sarah will have a baby son with her.” or “and Sarah will already have a baby boy.”

Genesis 18:15

But Sarah denied it

Quote: וַ⁠תְּכַחֵ֨שׁ שָׂרָ֧ה (1)

The Hebrew verb here includes the meaning of lying or deceiving. Alternate translation: “But Sarah lied to him”

by saying

Quote: לֵ⁠אמֹ֛ר (1)

Notice that the verbs denied and saying refer to the same event, not two separate events. Make sure that is clear in your translation.

I did not laugh,” because she was afraid

Quote: לֹ֥א צָחַ֖קְתִּי כִּ֣י יָרֵ֑אָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

Consider whether it is best in your language to translate this quote as a direct or indirect quote. Also, for some languages it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of the clauses in this sentence and say, “When Sarah heard that, she was afraid, so she lied to him and said, “I did not laugh.” ” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “that she did not laugh. She said that, because she was afraid.”

But he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֥אמֶר (1)

Alternate translation: “But he replied to her,”

No, but you did laugh

Quote: לֹ֖א כִּ֥י צָחָֽקְתְּ (1)

Consider whether Yahweh’s reply to Sarah here should begin with No or “Yes” in your language. Alternate translation: “Yes, you did laugh.”

Genesis 18:16

Then the men got up from there

Quote: וַ⁠יָּקֻ֤מוּ מִ⁠שָּׁם֙ הָֽ⁠אֲנָשִׁ֔ים (1)

Alternate translation: “After they had finished eating, the three men got up to leave”

and looked down toward Sodom

Quote: וַ⁠יַּשְׁקִ֖פוּ עַל פְּנֵ֣י סְדֹ֑ם (1)

This phrase reflects the fact that the city of Sodom was lower in elevation than the city of Hebron, where Abraham was living. Alternate translation: “and started heading down toward the city of Sodom.”

And Abraham went with them

Quote: וְ⁠אַ֨בְרָהָ֔ם הֹלֵ֥ךְ עִמָּ֖⁠ם (1)

Alternate translation: “Abraham walked with them for a while” or “Abraham accompanied them for a while”

to send them off

Quote: לְ⁠שַׁלְּחָֽ⁠ם (1)

Alternate translation: “as they were leaving.”

Genesis 18:17

And Yahweh said

Quote: וַֽ⁠יהֹוָ֖ה אָמָ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

The context implies that Yahweh said this to himself, without Abraham hearing him. See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 11:6. Alternate translation: “Then Yahweh said to himself,”

Should I hide from Abraham

Quote: הַֽ⁠מְכַסֶּ֤ה אֲנִי֙ מֵֽ⁠אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Alternate translation: “I will not conceal from Abraham” or “I will tell Abraham”

what I am doing

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֖ר אֲנִ֥י עֹשֶֽׂה (1)

Whether you end this sentence with a question mark or a period will depend on how you choose to translate this rhetorical question. Alternate translation: “what I am going to do to the city of Sodom”

Genesis 18:18

And Abraham will surely become

Quote: וְ⁠אַ֨בְרָהָ֔ם הָי֧וֹ יִֽהְיֶ֛ה (1)

Some translations begin a new sentence here. Other translations continue the rhetorical question (or statement) in verse 17 to the end of verse 18 and say, “since Abraham/he will …” or “seeing that Abraham/he will …” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “he will surely be the ancestor of” or “After all, Abraham and his descendants will surely multiply and become”

a great and mighty nation

Quote: לְ⁠ג֥וֹי גָּד֖וֹל וְ⁠עָצ֑וּם (1)

See how you translated “great nation” in Gen 12:2. Alternate translation: “a great and powerful ethnic group,”

in him

Quote: ב֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

This phrase refers to Abraham and his descendants, including ultimately the Messiah. See the note about this at Gen 12:3. Alternate translation: “and through him” or “and because of him” or “and by means of him”

and … all the nations of the earth will be blessed

Quote: וְ⁠נִ֨בְרְכוּ & כֹּ֖ל גּוֹיֵ֥י הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 12:3. Alternate translation: “all the ethnic groups in the world will be blessed by me.” or “I will bless all the ethnic groups in the world.”

Genesis 18:19

For

Quote: כִּ֣י (1)

Alternate translation: “Indeed”

I have known him

Quote: יְדַעְתִּ֗י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Consider whether or not your language has an idiom that fits well here. Alternate translation: “I have chosen Abraham”

so that he will command his children

Quote: לְמַעַן֩ אֲשֶׁ֨ר יְצַוֶּ֜ה אֶת בָּנָ֤י⁠ו (1)

Alternate translation: “so that he will guide his children”

and his house after him

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת בֵּית⁠וֹ֙ אַחֲרָ֔י⁠ו (1)

Alternate translation: “grandchildren, and other descendants who will live after him,”

and they will keep the way of Yahweh

Quote: וְ⁠שָֽׁמְרוּ֙ דֶּ֣רֶךְ יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Make sure it is clear in your translation that Yahweh is speaking about himself here.

by doing righteousness and justice

Quote: לַ⁠עֲשׂ֥וֹת צְדָקָ֖ה וּ⁠מִשְׁפָּ֑ט (1)

Alternate translation: “and do what is right and just in my eyes” or “and do what is right including treat people justly”

so that

Quote: לְמַ֗עַן (1)

For some languages it is more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “So”

Yahweh will bring about

Quote: הָבִ֤יא יְהוָה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Make sure it is clear in your translation that Yahweh is referring to himself here. Alternate translation: “I will accomplish”

for Abraham what he has said to him

Quote: עַל אַבְרָהָ֔ם אֵ֥ת אֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּ֖ר עָלָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to Yahweh here. Make sure the way you use nouns and pronouns throughout this verse makes it clear in your language who is speaking and who is being referred to. Alternate translation: “for him what I have promised him that I will do.”

Genesis 18:20

Then Yahweh said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “So Yahweh told Abraham,”

Because the outcry of Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and because their sin is very grievous

Quote: זַעֲקַ֛ת סְדֹ֥ם וַ⁠עֲמֹרָ֖ה כִּי רָ֑בָּה וְ⁠חַ֨טָּאתָ֔⁠ם כִּ֥י כָבְדָ֖ה מְאֹֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Make sure it is clear in your translation that the phrase Sodom and Gomorrah refers to the people in those cities. Also, in the Hebrew text this sentence continues into verse 21. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “I have heard many terrible accusations against the people of the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah because they are sinning so grievously So” or “I have heard many people crying out against the people in the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah because they are committing very evil things.”

Genesis 18:21

I will go down now

Quote: אֵֽרֲדָה נָּ֣א (1)

The cities of Sodom and Gomorrah were both lower in elevation than the city of Hebron. See what you did for a similar case in verse 16. Alternate translation: “I am going to those cities now”

and see

Quote: וְ⁠אֶרְאֶ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Alternate translation: “to investigate” or “in order to find out”

whether they have done altogether according to its outcry

Quote: הַ⁠כְּ⁠צַעֲקָתָ֛⁠הּ & עָשׂ֣וּ ׀ כָּלָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “whether or not the people in those cities are guilty of everything” or “if the people there have done all the terrible sins”

that has come to me

Quote: הַ⁠בָּ֥אָה אֵלַ֖⁠י (1)

Alternate translation: “that I have heard about them.” or “that I have heard they are guilty of.”

And if not

Quote: וְ⁠אִם לֹ֖א (1)

Alternate translation: “If those things are not true,”

Genesis 18:22

Then the men turned away from there

Quote: וַ⁠יִּפְנ֤וּ מִ⁠שָּׁם֙ הָֽ⁠אֲנָשִׁ֔ים (1)

Alternate translation: “Then the other two men left from there”

toward Sodom

Quote: סְדֹ֑מָ⁠ה (1)

Alternate translation: “and continued heading toward the city of Sodom,” or “and headed toward the city of Sodom,”

and Abraham was still standing

Quote: וְ⁠אַ֨בְרָהָ֔ם עוֹדֶ֥⁠נּוּ עֹמֵ֖ד (1)

Alternate translation: “and Abraham stood there”

Genesis 18:23

Then Abraham approached {him

Quote: וַ⁠יִּגַּ֥שׁ אַבְרָהָ֖ם (1)

Alternate translation: “Then Abraham came closer to him”

and said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּאמַ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “and said to him,”

Will you really sweep away

Quote: הַ⁠אַ֣ף תִּסְפֶּ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Abraham uses a rhetorical question here to express his strong feelings and concern about what Yahweh told him. Consider whether or not it is clear and natural to use a rhetorical question here in your language. Make sure it does not sound like Abraham is angry or being rude. See how you translated a similar idiom (“wipe away”) in Gen 6:7. Alternate translation: “Would you indeed wipe out” or “Surely you would not destroy”

the righteous

Quote: צַדִּ֖יק (1)

Alternate translation: “the good people in the city”

with

Quote: עִם (1)

Alternate translation: “together with” or “when you destroy”

the wicked

Quote: רָשָֽׁע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The way you translate this rhetorical question will determine what punctuation mark you end this sentence with. If you use an exclamation point here, make sure it does not sound like Abraham was angry, shouting, or being disrespectful. Alternate translation: “the wicked people there” or “the people there who are evil” or “the wicked people there, would you?”

Genesis 18:24

Suppose

Quote: אוּלַ֥י (1)

Alternate translation: “Suppose that”

there are fifty righteous in the city

Quote: יֵ֛שׁ חֲמִשִּׁ֥ים צַדִּיקִ֖ם בְּ⁠ת֣וֹךְ הָ⁠עִ֑יר (1)

See how you translated “the righteous” in verse 23. Also consider whether to use fifty or “50” here in your translation, which depends on how your translation team has decided to represent numbers. Alternate translation: “there are 50 good people living in the city of Sodom?”

Will you really sweep away

Quote: הַ⁠אַ֤ף תִּסְפֶּה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

See how you translated this phrase in verse 23. Alternate translation: “Will you actually still destroy” or “Certainly you will not still destroy”

and not spare the place

Quote: וְ⁠לֹא תִשָּׂ֣א לַ⁠מָּק֔וֹם (1)

Alternate translation: “the place and all its inhabitants rather than spare them” or “all the people in the place rather than let them all live”

for the sake of

Quote: לְמַ֛עַן (1)

Alternate translation: “in order to save”

the fifty righteous

Quote: חֲמִשִּׁ֥ים הַ⁠צַּדִּיקִ֖ם (1)

Alternate translation: “the 50 good people”

who {are} in it

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר בְּ⁠קִרְבָּֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The way you translate this rhetorical question will determine what punctuation mark you end this sentence with. Alternate translation: “who live in it” or “who live there, will you?”

Genesis 18:25

Far be it from you

Quote: חָלִ֨לָ⁠ה לְּ⁠ךָ֜ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This idiom expresses emphatically that Abraham does not believe Yahweh would do this. Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom. Make sure that Abraham sounds respectful in your translation. Alternate translation: “Surely you would never” or “It seems impossible that you would ever” or “I hope that you would never”

the righteous

Quote: צַדִּיק֙ (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 23. Alternate translation: “good people”

with

Quote: עִם (1)

Alternate translation: “along with” or “when you destroy”

the wicked

Quote: רָשָׁ֔ע (1)

See how you translated the wicked in verse 23. Alternate translation: “wicked people,”

so that the righteous are like the wicked

Quote: וְ⁠הָיָ֥ה כַ⁠צַּדִּ֖יק כָּ⁠רָשָׁ֑ע (1)

If exclamation points are used in this chapter, make sure it does not sound like Abraham is angry, shouting, or being disrespectful Alternate translation: “so that good people are punished by you as if they were evil!”

Far be it from you

Quote: חָלִ֣לָ⁠ה לָּ֔⁠ךְ (1)

See how you translated a similar phrase at the beginning of this verse. Alternate translation: “Surely you would never do such a thing!” or “It seems impossible that you would ever do such a thing!” or “I hope that you would never do such a thing!”

Will the one who judges all the earth not do justice

Quote: הֲ⁠שֹׁפֵט֙ כָּל הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ לֹ֥א יַעֲשֶׂ֖ה מִשְׁפָּֽט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Consider what is the best way in your language to translate this rhetorical question; make sure that Abraham sounds polite. Also see how you translated justice in verse 19. Alternate translation: “As the judge of everyone on the earth, surely you will treat people rightly.” or “You are the one who judges all the people on the earth. Surely you will do what is right.”

Genesis 18:26

Then Yahweh said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Make sure that the various quote margins in this long conversation (verses 23-32) are clear and natural in your translation. Alternate translation: “Then Yahweh answered him”

in Sodom fifty righteous in the city

Quote: בִ⁠סְדֹ֛ם חֲמִשִּׁ֥ים צַדִּיקִ֖ם בְּ⁠ת֣וֹךְ הָ⁠עִ֑יר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Alternate translation: “50 godly people living in the city of Sodom,”

then I will spare the whole place

Quote: וְ⁠נָשָׂ֥אתִי לְ⁠כָל הַ⁠מָּק֖וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Make sure it is clear in your translation that Yahweh is referring here to the city of Sodom as well as the people who live there, not just the city. Alternate translation: “then I will spare the entire city and everyone who lives there” or “then I will not destroy the city or anyone in it”

for their sake

Quote: בַּ⁠עֲבוּרָֽ⁠ם (1)

Alternate translation: “for the sake of those righteous people.” or “in order to save those good people.”

Genesis 18:27

Then Abraham spoke up

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֥עַן אַבְרָהָ֖ם (1)

Alternate translation: “Then Abraham responded”

and said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּאמַ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

Alternate translation: “and said to him,” or “and asked him,”

Behold, please, I have taken it upon myself to speak to

Quote: הִנֵּה נָ֤א הוֹאַ֨לְתִּי֙ לְ⁠דַבֵּ֣ר אֶל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The idiom taken it upon myself means that Abraham has decided to do something and is acting boldly. Consider whether or not your language has an idiom that fits well here. Alternate translation: “Listen, please, since I have been bold to speak to you,” or “Please excuse me for speaking to you so boldly,”

my Lord

Quote: אֲדֹנָ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Abraham realizes by now that he is talking to Yahweh, so use a respectful term in your translation that is appropriate for him to use when he refers to Yahweh here and in the rest of this chapter. Also, for some languages it is more natural to put this phrase first in this quote and say, “My Lord/Master, please excuse me for speaking to you so boldly,” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “my Master,” or “Master,”

although I

Quote: וְ⁠אָנֹכִ֖י (1)

Alternate translation: “in spite of the fact that”

although I {am} dust and ashes

Quote: וְ⁠אָנֹכִ֖י עָפָ֥ר וָ⁠אֵֽפֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

It may be clearer to put this comparison earlier in the sentence and say, “My Lord/Master, I am as unimportant/insignificant as dust/dirt and ashes, so please excuse me …” Do what is best in your language. Also, see how you translated dust in Gen 2:7 and 3:19. Alternate translation: “I am as unimportant as dust and ashes compared to you.” or “I am nothing compared to you.” or “I have no status compared to you.”

Genesis 18:28

Suppose

Quote: א֠וּלַי (1)

See how you translated this term in verse 24. Alternate translation: “But suppose that”

the fifty righteous lack five

Quote: יַחְסְר֞וּ⁠ן חֲמִשִּׁ֤ים הַ⁠צַּדִּיקִם֙ חֲמִשָּׁ֔ה (1)

Alternate translation: “there are five fewer than 50 righteous people living in the city?” or “there are only 45 righteous people in the city instead of 50?”

Will you destroy the whole city

Quote: הֲ⁠תַשְׁחִ֥ית & אֶת כָּל הָ⁠עִ֑יר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated “the whole place” in verse 26. Alternate translation: “Will you still destroy the whole city and everyone in it”

because of five

Quote: בַּ⁠חֲמִשָּׁ֖ה (1)

Alternate translation: “because the number of righteous people is five persons low?”

And he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Make sure it is clear in your translation that Yahweh is speaking here, not Abraham. Alternate translation: “And Yahweh said to him” or “Yahweh answered him”

I will not destroy it if I find forty-five there

Quote: לֹ֣א אַשְׁחִ֔ית אִם אֶמְצָ֣א שָׁ֔ם אַרְבָּעִ֖ים וַ⁠חֲמִשָּֽׁה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Make sure it is clear in your translation what “forty-five/45” refers to. Alternate translation: “I will not destroy the city if there are 45 righteous people living there.” or “if I find 45 righteous people living in the city, I will not destroy it.”

Genesis 18:29

Then he continued again to speak to him

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨סֶף ע֜וֹד לְ⁠דַבֵּ֤ר אֵלָי⁠ו֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Alternate translation: “Then he spoke again to him”

and said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּאמַ֔ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “and asked him,”

Suppose

Quote: אוּלַ֛י (1)

Alternate translation: “Suppose that”

forty are found

Quote: יִמָּצְא֥וּ⁠ן & אַרְבָּעִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language. Alternate translation: “only 40 righteous people are found by you” or “you find only 40 righteous people” or “there are only 40 righteous people”

there

Quote: שָׁ֖ם (1)

Alternate translation: “living there?” or “living in the city? Will you destroy it then?”

And he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “And Yahweh replied,” or “He answered him”

for the sake of

Quote: בַּ⁠עֲב֖וּר (1)

Alternate translation: “because of”

the forty

Quote: הָ⁠אַרְבָּעִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Alternate translation: “the 40 righteous people.” or “those 40 people.”

Genesis 18:30

Then he said

Quote: וַ֠⁠יֹּאמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Make sure it is clear in your translation that Abraham is speaking here, not Yahweh. Alternate translation: “Then Abraham asked him” or “Then Abraham pleaded with Yahweh,”

Please do not let my Lord be angry

Quote: אַל נָ֞א יִ֤חַר לַֽ⁠אדֹנָ⁠י֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Abraham addresses Yahweh using the third person and the title Lord to show him honor and respect. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language. Alternate translation: “My Master, please do not be angry at me,”

and let me speak

Quote: וַ⁠אֲדַבֵּ֔רָה (1)

Alternate translation: “but let me say something else:” or “rather let me ask you another question:”

Suppose

Quote: אוּלַ֛י (1)

Alternate translation: “Suppose that”

thirty are found

Quote: יִמָּצְא֥וּ⁠ן & שְׁלֹשִׁ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

If you use the numeral “30” here in your translation, make sure that it will not get confused with the verse number. Alternate translation: “only 30 righteous people are found” or “you find only 30 righteous people” or “there are only 30 righteous people”

there

Quote: שָׁ֖ם (1)

Alternate translation: “living in the city?”

And he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Make sure it is clear in your translation that Yahweh is speaking here, not Abraham. Alternate translation: “Yahweh replied,” or “He answered him,”

I will not do it if I find thirty there

Quote: לֹ֣א אֶֽעֱשֶׂ֔ה אִם אֶמְצָ֥א שָׁ֖ם שְׁלֹשִֽׁים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

See how you translated a similar sentence at the end of verse 28. Alternate translation: “I will not destroy the city if I find 30 righteous people living there.” or “If I find 30 righteous people living in the city, I will not destroy it.”

Genesis 18:31

Then he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֗אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Make sure it is clear in your translation that Abraham is speaking here, not Yahweh. Alternate translation: “Then Abraham said to him” or “Then Abraham asked Yahweh,”

Behold, please, I have taken it upon myself to speak to my Lord

Quote: הִנֵּֽה נָ֤א הוֹאַ֨לְתִּי֙ לְ⁠דַבֵּ֣ר אֶל אֲדֹנָ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

See how you translated this clause in verse 27. Alternate translation: “Listen, please, since I have been bold to speak to you, my Lord” or “My Lord please excuse me for speaking to you so boldly.”

Suppose

Quote: אוּלַ֛י (1)

Alternate translation: “Suppose that”

twenty are found

Quote: יִמָּצְא֥וּ⁠ן & עֶשְׂרִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Alternate translation: “only 20 righteous people are found by you” or “you find only 20 righteous people” or “there are only 20 righteous people”

there

Quote: שָׁ֖ם (1)

Alternate translation: “living there?”

And he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “He replied,” or “Then he answered him”

for the sake of

Quote: בַּ⁠עֲב֖וּר (1)

Alternate translation: “because of”

the twenty

Quote: הָֽ⁠עֶשְׂרִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Alternate translation: “the 20 righteous people.” or “those 20 people.”

Genesis 18:32

Then he said

Quote: וַ֠⁠יֹּאמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “Finally he said to him,” or “Then he asked him”

Please do not let my Lord be angry

Quote: אַל נָ֞א יִ֤חַר לַֽ⁠אדֹנָ⁠י֙ (1)

See how you translated this sentence in verse 30. Consider again how you translated my Lord in verses 27, 30-32. Contrast that to verse 3, where Abraham probably used the term before he realized that he was talking to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “My Master, please do not be angry at me,”

and let me speak just once more

Quote: וַ⁠אֲדַבְּרָ֣ה אַךְ הַ⁠פַּ֔עַם (1)

Alternate translation: “rather, let me say one more thing:” or “and let me ask you just one more thing”

Suppose

Quote: אוּלַ֛י (1)

Consider again how you translated the term Suppose in verses 24 and 28 and how you translated the sentence “Suppose only …righteous people are found there?” in verses 29-32. Alternate translation: “Suppose that”

ten are found

Quote: יִמָּצְא֥וּ⁠ן & עֲשָׂרָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

Consider again how you translated found and “find” in verses 26, 28-32. Alternate translation: “only ten righteous people are found” or “you find only ten righteous people”

there

Quote: שָׁ֖ם (1)

Alternate translation: “living there?” or “living in the city? Will you destroy it then?”

And he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider again how you referred to Yahweh and Abraham in your translation throughout this dialogue (verses 23-32). It is a good idea to read this conversation aloud at a regular speed and listen to make sure that all quote margins are natural and clear in your language. Alternate translation: “And Yahweh replied,” or “He answered him,”

for the sake of

Quote: בַּ⁠עֲב֖וּר (1)

Consider again how you translated this phrase in verses 24, 26, 29, 31, 32. Alternate translation: “because of”

the ten

Quote: הָ⁠עֲשָׂרָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Consider again whether you used words or numerals for the numbers throughout verses 24-32. Also consider again how you translated “righteous people” and “righteous people” in verses 23-32. Alternate translation: “those ten righteous people.”

Genesis 18:33

Then Yahweh left as soon as he finished speaking to Abraham

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֣לֶךְ יְהוָ֔ה כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֣ר כִּלָּ֔ה לְ⁠דַבֵּ֖ר אֶל אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)

Alternate translation: “Then Yahweh left Abraham as soon as he finished speaking with him,”

and Abraham returned to his place

Quote: וְ⁠אַבְרָהָ֖ם שָׁ֥ב לִ⁠מְקֹמֽ⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “and Abraham went home.”

Genesis 19

Genesis 19:1

Then the two angels came to Sodom in the evening

Quote: וַ֠⁠יָּבֹאוּ שְׁנֵ֨י הַ⁠מַּלְאָכִ֤ים סְדֹ֨מָ⁠ה֙ בָּ⁠עֶ֔רֶב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

See how you translated “angel” in Gen 16:7-11.

at the gate of Sodom

Quote: בְּ⁠שַֽׁעַר סְדֹ֑ם (1)

Cities like Sodom had stone walls built around them, with entrance gates (that were closed at night) to protect the people in the city from enemies. Alternate translation: “by the gate of the city.” or “at the city gate”

And Lot saw them, and he got up

Quote: וַ⁠יַּרְא לוֹט֙ וַ⁠יָּ֣קָם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual

Some languages have a special dual pronoun that can be used throughout verses 1-19 to refer to the two angels. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “When Lot saw them, he got up”

to meet them

Quote: לִ⁠קְרָאתָ֔⁠ם (1)

Alternate translation: “to greet them”

and bowed down {with} nose to the ground

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁתַּ֥חוּ אַפַּ֖יִם אָֽרְצָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 18:2. Alternate translation: “and then bowed before them with his forehead to the ground to show respect.” or “and then kneeled in front of them and bowed his forehead to the ground to show them respect.”

Genesis 19:2

Behold, please, my lords

Quote: הִנֶּ֣ה נָּא אֲדֹנַ֗⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

See how you translated Behold, please in Gen 18:27. Also see how you translated “my lord” in Gen 18:3. At this point, Lot probably did not know that these were angels, because they looked like men. Alternate translation: “Listen to me please, my lords” or “Sirs please listen to this:”

Please turn aside to

Quote: ס֣וּרוּ נָ֠א אֶל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

Lot is being urgent here (using please twice), probably because he knows how dangerous the city is. Translate this quote in a way that communicates this urgency. Alternate translation: “Please stop in at”

the house of your servant and spend the night

Quote: בֵּ֨ית עַבְדְּ⁠כֶ֤ם וְ⁠לִ֨ינוּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Lot refers to himself as your servant here to show respect to the two men and to politely offer to host them as his guests.

and spend the night, and wash your feet

Quote: וְ⁠לִ֨ינוּ֙ וְ⁠רַחֲצ֣וּ רַגְלֵי⁠כֶ֔ם (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated wash your feet in Gen 18:4. Alternate translation: “You can wash the dust off your feet and stay for the night there.”

Then you can get up early

Quote: וְ⁠הִשְׁכַּמְתֶּ֖ם (1)

Alternate translation: “Then early in the morning you can get up”

and go on your way

Quote: וַ⁠הֲלַכְתֶּ֣ם לְ⁠דַרְכְּ⁠כֶ֑ם (1)

Alternate translation: “and continue on your way.”

But they said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּאמְר֣וּ (1)

Alternate translation: “The two angels said to him”

No, rather

Quote: לֹּ֔א כִּ֥י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

The angels’ reply should sound polite and respectful in your translation, not rude or disrespectful. For example, in some cultures it is not polite to say No too directly. Alternate translation: “No, thank you, rather” or “That is kind of you, but”

we will spend the night in the street

Quote: בָ⁠רְח֖וֹב נָלִֽין (1)

This refers to a public, outdoor place inside the city, perhaps the open place inside the city gate where people would meet. Alternate translation: “we will just stay in the city square tonight.” or “we plan to stay the night in the square.”

Genesis 19:3

But he urged them strongly

Quote: וַ⁠יִּפְצַר בָּ֣⁠ם מְאֹ֔ד (1)

Alternate translation: “But Lot insisted urgently” or “However he continued to urge them earnestly” or “However he continued to urgently invite them”

so that they turned aside with him

Quote: וַ⁠יָּסֻ֣רוּ אֵלָ֔י⁠ו (1)

Alternate translation: “until he finally convinced them and they went with him”

and entered into his house

Quote: וַ⁠יָּבֹ֖אוּ אֶל בֵּית֑⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “to his house and entered it.”

Then he prepared a feast for them

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֤עַשׂ לָ⁠הֶם֙ מִשְׁתֶּ֔ה (1)

Lot probably had his wife or servants prepare the meal (as Abraham did in Gen 18:6-7). It is common in the Bible to say that a leader or head of household (as here) did something, when in reality he had it done by someone else who was under his authority. Alternate translation: “Then he made a big meal for them,” or “Then Lot had a big meal prepared for them,”

and he baked unleavened bread

Quote: וּ⁠מַצּ֥וֹת אָפָ֖ה (1)

Alternate translation: “including some bread without yeast in it,”

Genesis 19:4

Before they lay down

Quote: טֶרֶם֮ יִשְׁכָּבוּ֒ (1)

Alternate translation: “But after the meal, before they could lie down to sleep,” or “After that, before they could go to bed for the night,”

then the men of the city, the men of Sodom

Quote: וְ⁠אַנְשֵׁ֨י הָ⁠עִ֜יר אַנְשֵׁ֤י סְדֹם֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “all the men of the city of Sodom”

from the young and to the old

Quote: מִ⁠נַּ֖עַר וְ⁠עַד זָקֵ֑ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

This phrase refers to all the men of the city of Sodom, including the young and the old and everyone in between. Consider what is the best way to translate this phrase in your language. Alternate translation: “from the youngest to the oldest,”

all the people from the edge{s

Quote: כָּל הָ⁠עָ֖ם מִ⁠קָּצֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

This phrase is hyperbole or exaggeration, to emphasize that a very large number of people from the city were there. Consider whether or not your language can do the same thing. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “In fact, all the people from every section of the city were there.” or “so that people from the entire city were there.” or “In fact, everyone from all parts of the city had come there.”

Genesis 19:5

Then they called

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרְא֤וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns

Consider what is the best way to refer to these people at this point in the paragraph in your translation. Alternate translation: “Then the mob of people called out to Lot” or “Then the mob of men shouted to Lot”

who came to you tonight

Quote: אֲשֶׁר בָּ֥אוּ אֵלֶ֖י⁠ךָ הַ⁠לָּ֑יְלָה (1)

Alternate translation: “who came to your house tonight?”

Bring them out to us

Quote: הוֹצִיאֵ֣⁠ם אֵלֵ֔י⁠נוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “Bring them to us out here” or “We demand that you bring them out here to us”

so that we can know them

Quote: וְ⁠נֵדְעָ֖ה אֹתָֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

In Hebrew the verb know is often used as an idiom that means “have sex with” (as in Gen 4:1, 25). Here it refers to homosexual activities and raping the two men. Translate this in a way that is not too offensive to be read aloud in public. Alternate translation: “so that we can have sex with them!”

Genesis 19:6

Then Lot went out to them at the entrance

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּצֵ֧א אֲלֵ⁠הֶ֛ם ל֖וֹט הַ⁠פֶּ֑תְחָ⁠ה (1)

Alternate translation: “But Lot went outside near the entrance to talk to them,”

and shut the door behind him

Quote: וְ⁠הַ⁠דֶּ֖לֶת סָגַ֥ר אַחֲרָֽי⁠ו (1)

Alternate translation: “and he shut the door of the house behind him,”

Genesis 19:7

and he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּאמַ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Then he said to them,” or “and he pleaded with them,”

Please, my brothers

Quote: נָ֥א אַחַ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

The phrase my brothers is used here as a polite address that implies a close relationship. Lot uses this idiom to try to get the men of Sodom to not harm his guests. The men were not his actual brothers. For some languages it is more natural to put my brothers (or “my friends”) first in this quote. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “No, please, my friends,” or “I beg you, my brothers” or “No, my brothers please”

do not do evil

Quote: אַל & תָּרֵֽעוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “do not do this evil!” or “do not do such an wicked thing!”

Genesis 19:8

Behold, please

Quote: הִנֵּה נָ֨א (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 2. Alternate translation: “Listen to me please:” or “Please listen to me”

have not known a man

Quote: לֹֽא יָדְעוּ֙ אִ֔ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

See how you translated the idiom “knew” in verse 5 and Gen 4:1, though it may need to be translated in different ways depending on the context. Alternate translation: “have not had sexual relations with a man.” or “have never slept with a man.” or “are virgins.”

Please let me bring them out to you, and you do to them

Quote: אוֹצִֽיאָה נָּ֤א אֶתְ⁠הֶן֙ אֲלֵי⁠כֶ֔ם וַ⁠עֲשׂ֣וּ לָ⁠הֶ֔ן (1)

Alternate translation: “Allow me to bring them out to you instead so that you may do to them” or “If you will let me bring them out here to you, then you may do to them”

as {is} good in your eyes

Quote: כַּ⁠טּ֖וֹב בְּ⁠עֵינֵי⁠כֶ֑ם (1)

See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 16:6. Alternate translation: “whatever you like.” or “whatever pleases you.”

But do not do anything to these men

Quote: רַ֠ק לָֽ⁠אֲנָשִׁ֤ים הָ⁠אֵל֙ אַל־תַּעֲשׂ֣וּ דָבָ֔ר (1)

Alternate translation: “But you must not do anything to harm these men,” or “But do not violate these men,”

because for that {reason} they have come under the shadow of my rafters

Quote: כִּֽי עַל כֵּ֥ן בָּ֖אוּ בְּ⁠צֵ֥ל קֹרָתִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Alternate translation: “because they have come under the shelter of my roof” or “because they are my guests and I am responsible for their well-being”

Genesis 19:9

But they said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּאמְר֣וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “But the men of Sodom responded to him” or “But the men of Sodom shouted at Lot,”

Get back

Quote: גֶּשׁ הָ֗לְאָה (1)

Alternate translation: “Stand aside!” or “Get out of the way!”

Then they said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּֽאמְרוּ֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “Then they said to each other,”

This one came

Quote: הָ⁠אֶחָ֤ד בָּֽא (1)

The phrase “this one/guy” shows disdain and disrespect for Lot. If possible, use a similar term in your language here.

to sojourn

Quote: לָ⁠גוּר֙ (1)

See how you translated sojourn in Gen 12:10. Here it has the negative meaning that Lot does not belong there. Alternate translation: “to live temporarily,” or “as a outsider,”

and now he is judging {us

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁפֹּ֣ט שָׁפ֔וֹט עַתָּ֕ה (1)

Alternate translation: “and now he wants to judge us!”

We will treat you worse than them

Quote: נָרַ֥ע לְ⁠ךָ֖ מֵ⁠הֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here the crowd switches from talking to each other to shouting at Lot. Decide whether or not that needs to be explicit in your translation.

Then they pressed hard against the man Lot

Quote: וַ⁠יִּפְצְר֨וּ בָ⁠אִ֤ישׁ בְּ⁠לוֹט֙ מְאֹ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Alternate translation: “Then they started shoving hard against him”

and came near to break down the door

Quote: וַֽ⁠יִּגְּשׁ֖וּ לִ⁠שְׁבֹּ֥ר הַ⁠דָּֽלֶת (1)

Alternate translation: “and moved forward to break down the door of his house.”

Genesis 19:10

and brought Lot

Quote: וַ⁠יָּבִ֧יאוּ אֶת ל֛וֹט (1)

Alternate translation: “and quickly pulled Lot”

and shut the door

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת הַ⁠דֶּ֖לֶת סָגָֽרוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “and slammed the door shut.”

Genesis 19:11

Then they struck the men who {were at} the entrance of the house with blindness

Quote: וְֽ⁠אֶת־הָ⁠אֲנָשִׁ֞ים אֲשֶׁר פֶּ֣תַח הַ⁠בַּ֗יִת הִכּוּ֙ בַּ⁠סַּנְוֵרִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Alternate translation: “Then those two guests who were angels caused the men of Sodom who were outside the door of the house to be blind,”

from the small and to the great

Quote: מִ⁠קָּטֹ֖ן וְ⁠עַד גָּד֑וֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

This phrase refers to all the men who were outside the house, including the young and the old and everyone in between. See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 4. Alternate translation: “from the youngest to the oldest,”

so that they became weary {trying} to find the door

Quote: וַ⁠יִּלְא֖וּ לִ⁠מְצֹ֥א הַ⁠פָּֽתַח (1)

Alternate translation: “so that they wearied themselves fumbling around trying to find the door.” or “so that they could not see the door and gave up trying to find it.”

Genesis 19:12

Then the men said to Lot

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּאמְר֨וּ הָ⁠אֲנָשִׁ֜ים אֶל־ל֗וֹט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “Then the two men asked Lot,”

Who else {belongs} to you here

Quote: עֹ֚ד מִֽי לְ⁠ךָ֣ פֹ֔ה (1)

Alternate translation: “What other family members do you have here,” or “Do you have any other relatives here in this city,”

a son-in-law or your sons or your daughters

Quote: חָתָן֙ וּ⁠בָנֶ֣י⁠ךָ וּ⁠בְנֹתֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)

Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here or later in this verse. Alternate translation: “such as sons-in-law or sons or daughters” or “If you have sons-in-law, sons, daughters,”

or anyone {else} who {belongs} to you

Quote: וְ⁠כֹ֥ל אֲשֶׁר לְ⁠ךָ֖ (1)

Alternate translation: “or any other relatives”

in the city

Quote: בָּ⁠עִ֑יר (1)

The punctuation you use here depends on whether or not you began a new sentence earlier in this quote. Alternate translation: “in this city,”

Take {them} out

Quote: הוֹצֵ֖א (1)

Whether or not you begin a new sentence here will depend on whether you began a new sentence earlier in this quote. Alternate translation: “then quickly take them out”

from this place

Quote: מִן הַ⁠מָּקֽוֹם (1)

Make sure that the way you translate this phrase fits well with the ways that you refer to the city of Sodom earlier in this verse and in the next verse. It may help to read the entire verse aloud to make sure everything is clear and sounds natural in your language. Alternate translation: “from here,”

Genesis 19:13

because we are destroying

Quote: כִּֽי מַשְׁחִתִ֣ים אֲנַ֔חְנוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

The pronoun we refers here only to the two angels, not Lot or anyone else. Alternate translation: “because we are going to destroy”

this place

Quote: אֶת הַ⁠מָּק֖וֹם הַ⁠זֶּ֑ה (1)

The way you translate this phrase will depend on how you translated the end of verse 12.

For their outcry before Yahweh {is} great

Quote: כִּֽי גָֽדְלָ֤ה צַעֲקָתָ⁠ם֙ אֶת פְּנֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

See how you translated outcry in Gen 18:20-21. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Also, make sure that your translation of their outcry refers to the people of Sodom, not Lot’s relatives who were the last ones referred to (verse 12). Alternate translation: “Yahweh has heard that the people of this city are guilty of terrible sins,” or “Yahweh has heard serious accusations against the people who live here”

so Yahweh has sent us

Quote: וַ⁠יְשַׁלְּחֵ֥⁠נוּ יְהוָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns

Alternate translation: “so he has ordered us”

to destroy it

Quote: לְ⁠שַׁחֲתָֽ⁠הּ (1)

Make sure the way you translate this phrase fits with how you translated the first part of this sentence. Alternate translation: “to destroy them and their city.”

Genesis 19:14

Then Lot went out and spoke to

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּצֵ֨א ל֜וֹט וַ⁠יְדַבֵּ֣ר אֶל (1)

Alternate translation: “So Lot went and spoke to” or “So Lot went to speak to” or “So went to”

who were to take his daughters

Quote: לֹקְחֵ֣י בְנֹתָ֗י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The word take is used here as an idiom that means to marry. Consider whether or not it is best in your language to translate this as an idiom in your language. Alternate translation: “who were going to marry his daughters”

and he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “and he said to them,” or “and he urged them,” or “He told them,”

Get up

Quote: ק֤וּמוּ (1)

This phrase communicates urgency here. Alternate translation: “Come on! We must”

get out of

Quote: צְּאוּ֙ מִן (1)

Alternate translation: “get away from” or “flee from”

because Yahweh is destroying

Quote: כִּֽי מַשְׁחִ֥ית יְהוָ֖ה (1)

See how you translated “are destroying” in verse 13. Alternate translation: “because Yahweh is going to destroy”

the city

Quote: אֶת הָ⁠עִ֑יר (1)

Alternate translation: “the place!”

But it seemed like he was joking in the eyes of his sons-in-law

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֥י כִ⁠מְצַחֵ֖ק בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֥י חֲתָנָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Alternate translation: “But his sons-in-law did not listen to him, because they thought he was joking.”

Genesis 19:15

Then when the dawn came

Quote: וּ⁠כְמוֹ֙ הַ⁠שַּׁ֣חַר עָלָ֔ה (1)

Dawn is the time before sunrise when it starts getting light. Alternate translation: “Very early the next morning,”

the angels urged Lot, saying

Quote: וַ⁠יָּאִ֥יצוּ הַ⁠מַּלְאָכִ֖ים בְּ⁠ל֣וֹט לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר (1)

See how you translated angels in verse 1. Alternate translation: “the two messengers urged Lot,”

Get up

Quote: קוּם֩ (1)

Alternate translation: “You must quickly”

take your wife and your two daughters who are here

Quote: קַ֨ח אֶֽת אִשְׁתְּ⁠ךָ֜ וְ⁠אֶת שְׁתֵּ֤י בְנֹתֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ הַ⁠נִּמְצָאֹ֔ת (1)

Alternate translation: “get your wife and two daughters away from the city” or “leave the city with your wife and two daughters”

so that you are not swept away

Quote: פֶּן תִּסָּפֶ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-passives

Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language. Also, see how you translated the idiom “sweep away” in Gen 18:23-24. Alternate translation: “so that you will not be destroyed” or “or else you will be destroyed”

in the punishment of the city

Quote: בַּ⁠עֲוֺ֥ן הָ⁠עִֽיר (1)

Alternate translation: “when the people of the city are punished by God.” or “when God punishes the people in the city.”

Genesis 19:16

But he lingered

Quote: וַֽ⁠יִּתְמַהְמָ֓הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns

Consider what is the best way to refer to Lot at this point in the paragraph in your language. Alternate translation: “But Lot did not leave immediately,” or “Lot delayed,”

so the men grabbed his hand and the hand of his wife and the hand{s} of his two daughters

Quote: וַ⁠יַּחֲזִ֨קוּ הָ⁠אֲנָשִׁ֜ים בְּ⁠יָד֣⁠וֹ וּ⁠בְ⁠יַד־אִשְׁתּ֗⁠וֹ וּ⁠בְ⁠יַד֙ שְׁתֵּ֣י בְנֹתָ֔י⁠ו (1)

Alternate translation: “so the two men took hold of his hand and the hands of his wife and two daughters,” or “so they took him and his wife and two daughters by the hand,”

because of Yahweh’s mercy for him

Quote: בְּ⁠חֶמְלַ֥ת יְהוָ֖ה עָלָ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be better to put this phrase last in verse 16 so that it does not interrupt the flow of the sentence. Or it may be better to put this phrase earlier in the sentence and say, “Lot hesitated, but Yahweh was being merciful/kind to him, so the two men/angels took hold of Lot’s hand and the hands of his wife and two daughters and took/led them out of the city.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “because Yahweh was being kind to him”

and brought him out and set him

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּצִאֻ֥⁠הוּ וַ⁠יַּנִּחֻ֖⁠הוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “and led him safely”

Genesis 19:17

And it happened when they had brought them out to the outside

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִי֩ כְ⁠הוֹצִיאָ֨⁠ם אֹתָ֜⁠ם הַ⁠ח֗וּצָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

See how you translated brought in verse 16. Alternate translation: “As soon as the angels had led them outside the city,”

then he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “one of them said to them,” or “one of the angels said to Lot”

Flee for your life

Quote: הִמָּלֵ֣ט עַל נַפְשֶׁ֔⁠ךָ (1)

Alternate translation: “Run for your lives!” or “Run to save your lives!”

Do not look behind you

Quote: אַל תַּבִּ֣יט אַחֲרֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)

Alternate translation: “Do not look behind you at Sodom,” or “Do not look back at the city,”

and do not stop anywhere in the plain

Quote: וְ⁠אַֽל תַּעֲמֹ֖ד בְּ⁠כָל הַ⁠כִּכָּ֑ר (1)

This plain or valley was a wide, flat area between mountains. See how you translated “plain/valley” in Gen 13:10-12. Alternate translation: “and do not delay anywhere in the plain” or “and do not stop in the plain for any reason!”

Escape

Quote: הִמָּלֵ֖ט (1)

Alternate translation: “Hurry”

to the mountain{s

Quote: הָ⁠הָ֥רָ⁠ה (1)

The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “to the mountains/hills” or “to the hill country” or “to the/that mountain range” or (2) “to the/that mountain”. This phrase is ambiguous because often the Hebrew text uses a singular form to refer to something that is plural.

so that you are not swept away

Quote: פֶּן תִּסָּפֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

See how you translated this clause in verse 15. Alternate translation: “so that you will not be destroyed!” or “so that you will not die!”

Genesis 19:18

Then Lot said to them

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֥אמֶר ל֖וֹט אֲלֵ⁠הֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

Some languages have a special dual pronoun for them that fits well here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “But Lot pleaded with them,”

Please, no, my lords

Quote: אַל נָ֖א אֲדֹנָֽ⁠י (1)

See how you translated “my lords/masters” in verse 2. Alternate translation: “Please, my masters, do not make us go that far!”

Genesis 19:19

Behold, please

Quote: הִנֵּה נָ֠א (1)

Alternate translation: “Listen to this please:” or “Please listen to me”

Your servant has found favor in your eyes

Quote: מָצָ֨א עַבְדְּ⁠ךָ֣ חֵן֮ בְּ⁠עֵינֶי⁠ךָ֒ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

The phrase “your servant” does not mean that Lot is actually a servant for the angels, but rather, it is a humble way for Lot to refer to himself and show respect to them. See how you translated that phrase in verse 2. Also see how you translated the idiom “found favor in … eyes” in Gen 6:8 and 18:3. Alternate translation: “I, your servant, have been treated well by you,” or “You have treated me kindly even though I am unimportant,”

and you have magnified your mercy that you have shown to me

Quote: וַ⁠תַּגְדֵּ֣ל חַסְדְּ⁠ךָ֗ אֲשֶׁ֤ר עָשִׂ֨יתָ֙ עִמָּדִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

This is the first occurrence in the Bible of the important Hebrew word “khesed,” which is translated as “mercy,” “kindness,” or “lovingkindness” and often implies that it was not deserved. Compare how you translated a different word that has a similar meaning (mercy or “compassion”) in verse 16. Alternate translation: “and you have shown me great mercy” or “and you have been very merciful to me”

But I am not able to escape to the mountain{s

Quote: וְ⁠אָנֹכִ֗י לֹ֤א אוּכַל֙ לְ⁠הִמָּלֵ֣ט הָ⁠הָ֔רָ⁠ה (1)

See how you translated the mountains in verse 17. Alternate translation: “But I am not able to flee all the way to the hills” or “But there is no way that I can make it safely all the way to the hills” or “But the hills are too far away for me to make it there safely”

because the disaster will overtake me and I will die

Quote: פֶּן תִּדְבָּקַ֥⁠נִי הָ⁠רָעָ֖ה וָ⁠מַֽתִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The word disaster is personified here, that is, it is talked about as if it can act in human ways. Consider whether or not it would be clear and natural to do that here in your language. Alternate translation: “before the disaster catches up with me and kills me.” or “before the disaster strikes and kills me.”

Genesis 19:20

Behold, please

Quote: הִנֵּה נָ֠א (1)

Consider again how you translated Behold, please in verses 2, 8, 19-20. It may be necessary to translate it in slightly different ways, depending on the context.

That town there

Quote: הָ⁠עִ֨יר הַ⁠זֹּ֧את & שָׁ֖מָּ⁠ה (1)

The Hebrew word for town here (and in verses 21-23) can refer to either a city or a town, depending on the context. Many translations have “town,” or even “village,” here because the place was very small (verses 20, 22). Many other translations have “city” here instead, but that does not fit the context. Alternate translation: “That town over there”

is} near to flee to

Quote: קְרֹבָ֛ה לָ⁠נ֥וּס (1)

Alternate translation: “is close enough to run to in time,”

and it {is} a little one

Quote: וְ⁠הִ֣יא מִצְעָ֑ר (1)

Alternate translation: “and it is only a small town.” or “and it is little”

Please let me escape there

Quote: אִמָּלְטָ֨ה נָּ֜א שָׁ֗מָּ⁠ה (1)

Alternate translation: “Please let us flee there, and do not destroy it.”

Is it not a little one

Quote: הֲ⁠לֹ֥א מִצְעָ֛ר הִ֖וא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

This rhetorical question implies that it will not matter if such a small town like Zoar is not destroyed. Consider whether or not a rhetorical question works well here in your language. Alternate translation: “After all, it is only a small place”

Then my life will live

Quote: וּ⁠תְחִ֥י נַפְשִֽׁ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Lot says “my life,” but he is probably also including his family who is with him. Alternate translation: “Then I can stay alive.” or “If you let us go there, then my family and I will live.” or “If you allow that, our lives will be spared.”

Genesis 19:21

Then he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

This phrase probably refers to the same angel who spoke to Lot in verse 17. Make sure it does not sound like Lot is the one speaking here. Alternate translation: “The angel said”

Behold

Quote: הִנֵּה֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “Listen,” or “Here is what I will do:”

I have also lifted up your face concerning this thing

Quote: נָשָׂ֣אתִי פָנֶ֔י⁠ךָ גַּ֖ם לַ⁠דָּבָ֣ר הַ⁠זֶּ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Consider what is the best way in your language to translate the idiom lifted up your face here. Alternate translation: “I will grant your request,” or “I will permit you to do what you have requested,”

so I will not overthrow

Quote: לְ⁠בִלְתִּ֛י הָפְכִּ֥⁠י (1)

Alternate translation: “so I will not overturn”

the town that you are talking about

Quote: אֶת הָ⁠עִ֖יר אֲשֶׁ֥ר דִּבַּֽרְתָּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to put this clause earlier in the sentence and say, “I will allow you to go to the small town that you are talking about, and I will not destroy it.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “the small town that you mentioned.”

Genesis 19:22

Hurry up

Quote: מַהֵר֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “But go quickly now and”

escape there

Quote: הִמָּלֵ֣ט שָׁ֔מָּ⁠ה (1)

Consider again how you translated escape in verses 17, 19-20, 22. Alternate translation: “flee there,” or “flee to that town,”

because I am not able to do

Quote: כִּ֣י לֹ֤א אוּכַל֙ לַ⁠עֲשׂ֣וֹת (1)

This clause implies that Yahweh will not allow the angel to destroy anything until Lot and his family arrive safely in the town of Zoar. Alternate translation: “because I am not allowed to do anything” or “because I must wait to do anything” or “because God will not allow me to do anything”

until you go there

Quote: עַד בֹּאֲ⁠ךָ֖ שָׁ֑מָּ⁠ה (1)

Alternate translation: “until you reach there safely.” or “until you are safely there.”

For that {reason

Quote: עַל כֵּ֛ן (1)

This phrase refers back to what Lot said in verse 20, not what the angel just said. Alternate translation: “That is why” or “Since Lot said the town was little”

they called the name of the town

Quote: קָרָ֥א שֵׁם הָ⁠עִ֖יר (1)

See how you translated they called the name in Gen 11:9 and 16:14. Alternate translation: “the town was called” or “they called that town”

Zoar

Quote: צֽוֹעַר (1)

If this implied information is included in your translation or in a footnote, be consistent here with how you translated the word “little” or “small” in verse 20.

Genesis 19:23

The sun rose over the land

Quote: הַ⁠שֶּׁ֖מֶשׁ יָצָ֣א עַל הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)

Make sure that the way verse 23 begins in your translation fits with the way verse 15 begins, which refers to the same day.

and Lot

Quote: וְ⁠ל֖וֹט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous

In that culture the father was often the only one mentioned and the other family members were assumed to be with him. Alternate translation: “when Lot and his family”

came to Zoar

Quote: בָּ֥א צֹֽעֲרָ⁠ה (1)

Alternate translation: “arrived in the town of Zoar.” or “reachedthe town of Zoar.”

Genesis 19:24

Then Yahweh rained down on Sodom and Gomorrah brimstone and fire

Quote: וַֽ⁠יהוָ֗ה הִמְטִ֧יר עַל סְדֹ֛ם וְ⁠עַל עֲמֹרָ֖ה גָּפְרִ֣ית וָ⁠אֵ֑שׁ (1)

The word brimstone refers to sulfur, which is a type of rock that is highly flammable. When it burns, it produces smoke, intense heat, and a bad smell like rotten eggs. Alternate translation: “Then Yahweh poured down burning sulfur and fire on the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah” or “Then Yahweh caused fire and burning sulfur to pour down on the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah”

from Yahweh out of the heavens

Quote: מֵ⁠אֵ֥ת יְהוָ֖ה מִן הַ⁠שָּׁמָֽיִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

Some translations omit the phrase from Yahweh since Yahweh is already mentioned earlier as the one doing this. Also, for some languages it may be better to change the order of phrases in this verse and say, “Then Yahweh caused fire and burning sulfur/rocks to fall/pour like heavy rain from the heavens/sky on the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “from himself in heaven,” or “from out of the sky,”

Genesis 19:25

and he overthrew

Quote: וַֽ⁠יַּהֲפֹךְ֙ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated a phrase with a similar meaning (“swept away”) in verses 15 and 17. Alternate translation: “and (so) Yahweh completely destroyed” or “In that way, Yahweh completely destroyed ” or “That is how Yahweh completely destroyed”

and all of the plain

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֖ת כָּל הַ⁠כִּכָּ֑ר (1)

Make sure it is clear in your translation that the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah were also in the plain/valley, not separate from it. Alternate translation: “and the whole valley,” or “and the rest of the plain”

including all the inhabitants of the cities

Quote: וְ⁠אֵת֙ כָּל יֹשְׁבֵ֣י הֶ⁠עָרִ֔ים (1)

This phrase refers to Sodom and Gomorrah and at least two other cities in the valley (Deuteronomy 29:23). Alternate translation: “including all the people who lived in the cities of that valley” or “including everyone who lived in the cities there”

and the vegetation

Quote: וְ⁠צֶ֖מַח (1)

Alternate translation: “and even all the plants”

and the vegetation of the ground

Quote: וְ⁠צֶ֖מַח הָ⁠אֲדָמָֽה (1)

Alternate translation: “that were growing on the land.” or “of the area”

Genesis 19:26

But his wife from behind him looked back

Quote: וַ⁠תַּבֵּ֥ט אִשְׁתּ֖⁠וֹ מֵ⁠אַחֲרָ֑י⁠ו (1)

Alternate translation: “… looked back at Sodom,”

and she became

Quote: וַ⁠תְּהִ֖י (1)

Alternate translation: “and immediately her body turned into” or “and immediately Yahweh turned her into”

a pillar of salt

Quote: נְצִ֥יב מֶֽלַח (1)

Alternate translation: “a column of solid salt rock and she died.” or “salt rock that was in the shape of a column.”

Genesis 19:27

Abraham got up early in the morning

Quote: וַ⁠יַּשְׁכֵּ֥ם אַבְרָהָ֖ם בַּ⁠בֹּ֑קֶר (1)

Some translations translate this as the next morning, but it is more likely that this was the same day when Lot arrived in Zoar and Yahweh destroyed the cities in the valley (verse 23). Alternate translation: “Meanwhile, Abraham got up early that same morning”

and went to the place

Quote: אֶל הַ֨⁠מָּק֔וֹם (1)

Alternate translation: “and returned to the spot”

where he had stood before Yahweh

Quote: אֲשֶׁר עָ֥מַד & אֶת פְּנֵ֥י יְהוָֽה (1)

Alternate translation: “where he had been with Yahweh the previous day,”

Genesis 19:28

and he looked down

Quote: וַ⁠יַּשְׁקֵ֗ף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, make sure it is clear that Abraham, not Yahweh, is being referred to here. Alternate translation: “Then he looked down”

toward

Quote: עַל פְּנֵ֤י (1)

Alternate translation: “in the direction of”

and toward all the surface of the land of the plain

Quote: וְ⁠עַֽל כָּל פְּנֵ֖י אֶ֣רֶץ הַ⁠כִּכָּ֑ר (1)

Alternate translation: “and all the rest of the plain”

And he saw that, behold

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֗רְא וְ⁠הִנֵּ֤ה (1)

Alternate translation: “And he was amazed to see that”

smoke was rising from the land

Quote: עָלָה֙ קִיטֹ֣ר הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ (1)

Alternate translation: “lots of thick smoke was billowing up from the land” or “a large amount of smoke was …”

like smoke from a furnace

Quote: כְּ⁠קִיטֹ֖ר הַ⁠כִּבְשָֽׁן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

During that time period, a furnace was heated by fire. Alternate translation: “like smoke that comes from the fire in a large oven.”

Genesis 19:29

So it was, when God destroyed

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֗י בְּ⁠שַׁחֵ֤ת אֱלֹהִים֙ (1)

See how you translated destroyed in verses 13-14, 17. Alternate translation: “So it was that when God destroyed”

the cities of the plain

Quote: אֶת עָרֵ֣י הַ⁠כִּכָּ֔ר (1)

Consider again how you translated “plain/valley” in Gen 13:10-12; 19:17, 25, 28, 29. Alternate translation: “the cities on the plain,” or “the cities in the plain”

that God remembered Abraham

Quote: וַ⁠יִּזְכֹּ֥ר אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶת אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)

Make sure your translation of this clause does not imply that God forgot Abraham. See how you translated God remembered in Gen 8:1. Alternate translation: “he kept Abraham and his request in mind”

and sent Lot out of the middle of

Quote: וַ⁠יְשַׁלַּ֤ח אֶת לוֹט֙ מִ⁠תּ֣וֹךְ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “and brought Lot safely away from” or “So he rescued Lot from”

the overthrow

Quote: הַ⁠הֲפֵכָ֔ה (1)

Alternate translation: “the disaster”

when he overthrew the cities

Quote: בַּ⁠הֲפֹךְ֙ אֶת הֶ֣⁠עָרִ֔ים (1)

Alternate translation: “when he completely destroyed the cities” or “that he had used to completely destroy the cities”

Genesis 19:30

Then Lot went up from Zoar and settled in the mountain{s}, and his two daughters {were} with him

Quote: וַ⁠יַּעַל֩ ל֨וֹט מִ⁠צּ֜וֹעַר וַ⁠יֵּ֣שֶׁב בָּ⁠הָ֗ר וּ⁠שְׁתֵּ֤י בְנֹתָי⁠ו֙ עִמּ֔⁠וֹ (1)

Be consistent here with how you translated the mountains in verses 17 and 19. Alternate translation: “After that, Lot moved with his two daughters from the town of Zoar up into the hills and settled there,” or “Sometime later, Lot and his two daughters left the town of Zoar and moved to the hills,”

because he was afraid to settle in Zoar

Quote: כִּ֥י יָרֵ֖א לָ⁠שֶׁ֣בֶת בְּ⁠צ֑וֹעַר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to put this clause earlier in this sentence and say, “Lot was afraid to settle/stay in the town of Zoar, so he and his two daughters moved from there to the mountains/hills, where they lived in a cave.” Do what is best in your language. Also, be consistent with how you spelled Zoar throughout the book of Genesis. See Gen 13:10; 14:2, 8; 19:22-23, 30. Alternate translation: “because he was afraid to stay in the town of Zoar.”

So he lived in a cave, he and his two daughters

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֨שֶׁב֙ בַּ⁠מְּעָרָ֔ה ה֖וּא וּ⁠שְׁתֵּ֥י בְנֹתָֽי⁠ו (1)

Alternate translation: “So he and his two daughters lived in a cave in the hills.”

Genesis 19:31

Then the firstborn said to

Quote: וַ⁠תֹּ֧אמֶר הַ⁠בְּכִירָ֛ה אֶל (1)

Alternate translation: “Then one day his oldest daughter said to”

the younger

Quote: הַ⁠צְּעִירָ֖ה (1)

Alternate translation: “his younger one,” or “her younger sister,” or “her sister,”

Our father is old

Quote: אָבִ֣י⁠נוּ זָקֵ֑ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

In some cultures, it is not polite to call someone old. Translate this clause in a way that is accurate and acceptable in your language area. Alternate translation: “Our father is getting along in years,”

and there is not a man

Quote: וְ⁠אִ֨ישׁ אֵ֤ין (1)

Alternate translation: “and there is no man”

on the earth

Quote: בָּ⁠אָ֨רֶץ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Lot’s daughter is exaggerating here, to emphasize her point. Alternate translation: “in this land”

to come to us

Quote: לָ⁠ב֣וֹא עָלֵ֔י⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

See how you translated the idiom “went to” in Gen 6:4, which is the same meaning as come to here. Alternate translation: “to be with us,”

as {is} the way of all the earth

Quote: כְּ⁠דֶ֖רֶךְ כָּל הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Alternate translation: “as is the way of all the people on the earth.” or “which is normal for people all over the earth”

Genesis 19:32

Come on

Quote: לְכָ֨⁠ה (1)

See how you translated this in Gen 14:7.

let us get our father to drink wine

Quote: נַשְׁקֶ֧ה אֶת־אָבִ֛י⁠נוּ יַ֖יִן (1)

Consider what is the best way to translate this proposal or suggestion in your language.

and let us lie with him

Quote: וְ⁠נִשְׁכְּבָ֣ה עִמּ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “and then we should sleep with him” or “Then we can have physical relations with him”

so that we will give life to

Quote: וּ⁠נְחַיֶּ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “That way we can have descendants” or “so that we can preserve our family line”

through our father

Quote: מֵ⁠אָבִ֖י⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Alternate translation: “by our father.” or “through him.”

Genesis 19:33

So they got their father to drink wine on that night

Quote: וַ⁠תַּשְׁקֶ֧יןָ אֶת אֲבִי⁠הֶ֛ן יַ֖יִן בַּ⁠לַּ֣יְלָה ה֑וּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Lot’s daughters at this point in the paragraph. Alternate translation: “So they got their father drunk on wine that very night,”

and the firstborn went

Quote: וַ⁠תָּבֹ֤א הַ⁠בְּכִירָה֙ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Then his oldest daughter went to him”

and lay with her father

Quote: וַ⁠תִּשְׁכַּ֣ב אֶת אָבִ֔י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Make sure that the way you translate the euphemism lay with will not be too offensive to be read aloud in public. Alternate translation: “and slept with him,”

but he did not know

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא יָדַ֥ע (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “But he was so drunk that he did not even know” or “But he was so drunk that he was completely unaware”

when she lay down or when she got up

Quote: בְּ⁠שִׁכְבָ֖⁠הּ וּ⁠בְ⁠קׄוּמָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Alternate translation: “that she had been with him.”

Genesis 19:34

Then it happened on the next day

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי֙ מִֽ⁠מָּחֳרָ֔ת (1)

The phrase Then it happened introduces and emphasizes important information which the following narrative builds on. It also creates suspense so that readers and listeners wonder what will happen next. Some translations leave this phrase out, but doing that loses some of the suspense. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “The next day, this is what happened:”

the younger

Quote: הַ⁠צְּעִירָ֔ה (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 31. Alternate translation: “his younger one,” or “her younger sister,” or “her sister,”

Behold, last night

Quote: הֵן & אֶ֖מֶשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be more natural to put this time phrase (last night) last in this sentence. Do what is best in your language.

I lay with my father

Quote: שָׁכַ֥בְתִּי & אֶת אָבִ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

See how you translated lay with in verse 33. Alternate translation: “I slept with our father.” or “I had physical relations with our father.”

Let us get him to drink wine again tonight

Quote: נַשְׁקֶ֨⁠נּוּ יַ֜יִן גַּם הַ⁠לַּ֗יְלָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

Consider whether it is better in your language to put the time word tonight first or last in this clause. Alternate translation: “Tonight we should get him drunk again.”

lie with him

Quote: שִׁכְבִ֣י עִמּ֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Alternate translation: “sleep with him”

so that we will give life

Quote: וּ⁠נְחַיֶּ֥ה (1)

See how you translated the last clause in verse 32, which is the same as the rest of verse 34. Alternate translation: “so that we can have descendants” or “so that we can preserve our family line”

through our father

Quote: מֵ⁠אָבִ֖י⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns

Alternate translation: “by our father.” or “through him.”

Genesis 19:35

So on that night also they got their father to drink wine

Quote: וַ⁠תַּשְׁקֶ֜יןָ גַּ֣ם בַּ⁠לַּ֧יְלָה הַ⁠ה֛וּא אֶת אֲבִי⁠הֶ֖ן יָ֑יִן (1)

Alternate translation: “So they got their father drunk on wine that night, also”

Then the younger went and lay with him

Quote: וַ⁠תָּ֤קָם הַ⁠צְּעִירָה֙ וַ⁠תִּשְׁכַּ֣ב עִמּ֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Alternate translation: “Then his younger daughter went to him and slept with him,” or “Then his younger daughter went to him and had sexual relations with him,”

but he did not know

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא יָדַ֥ע (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, see how you translated the last clause in verse 33, which is similar to the rest of verse 35. Alternate translation: “But once again he was so drunk that he did not even know” or “but … he was not even aware” or “But … he was completely unaware”

when she lay down or when she got up

Quote: בְּ⁠שִׁכְבָ֖⁠הּ וּ⁠בְ⁠קֻמָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Alternate translation: “that she had been with him.”

Genesis 19:36

So both of the daughters of Lot conceived

Quote: וַֽ⁠תַּהֲרֶ֛יןָ שְׁתֵּ֥י בְנֽוֹת־ל֖וֹט (1)

Alternate translation: “As a result …”

from their father

Quote: מֵ⁠אֲבִי⁠הֶֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Alternate translation: “by having relations with their father.”

Genesis 19:37

Then the firstborn bore a son

Quote: וַ⁠תֵּ֤לֶד הַ⁠בְּכִירָה֙ בֵּ֔ן (1)

Make sure that the way you translate “Later” fits with the fact that several months have gone by. Alternate translation: “Later the oldest daughter gave birth to a son,” or “… had a son,”

and she called his name

Quote: וַ⁠תִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖⁠וֹ (1)

See how you translated called his name in Gen 5:29. Alternate translation: “and she called him” or “whom she named”

Moab

Quote: מוֹאָ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

You can include the meaning of this name in your translation text or in a footnote. Some translations put this implied information in parentheses. Do what is best in your language.

He {is} the father of

Quote: ה֥וּא אֲבִֽי (1)

Alternate translation: “He was the ancestor of”

the Moabites to this day

Quote: מוֹאָ֖ב עַד הַ⁠יּֽוֹם (1)

The phrase, to this day or “today” refers to the time when Moses wrote the book of Genesis, which was hundreds of years after Lot and his daughters lived and died. Alternate translation: “the people group who are called the Moabites today.”

Genesis 19:38

bore a son

Quote: יָ֣לְדָה בֵּ֔ן (1)

See how you translated the last half of verse 37, which is the same as the rest of verse 38, except for the names. Alternate translation: “had a son,”

and she called his name

Quote: וַ⁠תִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “and she called him” or “whom she named”

Ben-Ammi

Quote: בֶּן עַמִּ֑י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

You can include the meaning of this name in your translation text or in a footnote. Some translations put this implied information in parentheses. Do what is best in your language.

He {is} the father of

Quote: ה֛וּא אֲבִ֥י (1)

Alternate translation: “He was the forefather of”

the sons of Ammon to this day

Quote: בְנֵֽי עַמּ֖וֹן עַד הַ⁠יּֽוֹם (1)

See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 37. Alternate translation: “the people group who are called the Ammonites today.”

Genesis 20

Genesis 20:1

Then Abraham traveled

Quote: וַ⁠יִּסַּ֨ע & אַבְרָהָם֙ (1)

Consider what is the best way to introduce this new episode in your language, where the focus shifts to Abraham. Alternate translation: “Then Abraham and his family left”

from there

Quote: מִ⁠שָּׁ֤ם (1)

Abraham and Sarah had been living by the trees of Mamre, near the city of Hebron (Gen 13:18; 18:1). Alternate translation: “from the place where he were living” or “from near the city of Hebron”

to the land of the Negev

Quote: אַ֣רְצָ⁠ה הַ⁠נֶּ֔גֶב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

See how you translated “the Negev Wilderness/Desert” in Gen 12:9 (note); 13:1, 3. Alternate translation: “and went south to the Negev Desert area”

and he settled between Kadesh and Shur

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֥שֶׁב בֵּין קָדֵ֖שׁ וּ⁠בֵ֣ין שׁ֑וּר (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, be consistent here with how you spelled Kadesh in Gen 14:7 and Shur in 16:7. Alternate translation: “There he lived between the cities of Kadesh and Shur”

and sojourned in Gerar

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֖גָר בִּ⁠גְרָֽר (1)

See how you translated “sojourn” in Gen 12:10. Also be consistent here with how you translated Gerar in Gen 10:19. Alternate translation: “and they stayed there for a while as foreigners, in the city of Gerar.” or “and they stayed in the city of Gerar for a while.”

Genesis 20:2

And Abraham said about Sarah his wife, “She {is} my sister

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֧אמֶר אַבְרָהָ֛ם אֶל־שָׂרָ֥ה אִשְׁתּ֖⁠וֹ אֲחֹ֣תִ⁠י הִ֑וא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

Sarah was Abraham’s younger sister (Gen 19:19). Some languages use special words for sister and “brother” in Gen 12:13, 19; 20:2, 5, 12-13, 16, to distinguish when someone is younger or older than his or her sibling. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “While they were there, he told people that his wife Sarah was his sister.” or “While they were there, he told people that Sarah was his sister, not his wife.”

So Abimelech the king of Gerar sent for Sarah and took her

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁלַ֗ח אֲבִימֶ֨לֶךְ֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ גְּרָ֔ר וַ⁠יִּקַּ֖ח אֶת־שָׂרָֽה (1)

The city of Gerar was the Philistines’ capital city where King Abimelech ruled from (Gen 21:2, 32; 26:1). Alternate translation: “So one day Abimelech, who was the king over the city of Gerar, had some of his servants bring Sarah to his home to be his wife.” or “So one day King Abimelech, who ruled the Philistines from the city of Gerar, had Sarah brought to him to be his wife.”

Genesis 20:3

But God came to Abimelech in a dream

Quote: וַ⁠יָּבֹ֧א אֱלֹהִ֛ים אֶל אֲבִימֶ֖לֶךְ בַּ⁠חֲל֣וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics

For some languages it is necessary to use an honorific title for a king each time (or most of the time) that he is referred to by name, in order to show him proper respect. Do what is best in your language throughout this chapter. Alternate translation: “But God appeared to King Abimelech in a dream”

in} the night

Quote: הַ⁠לָּ֑יְלָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

It may be more natural to put this time phrase earlier in this sentence and say, “But that night God came/appeared to King Abimelech in a dream …” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “during the night” or “by night”

and said to him

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר ל֗⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “and told him,”

Behold, you are dead

Quote: הִנְּ⁠ךָ֥ מֵת֙ (1)

Make sure that the way you translate this clause does not make it sound like King Abimelech is already dead. God is telling King Abimelech what is about to happen to him. Alternate translation: “Listen to me, you are a dead man” or “Listen to me, you are about to die” or “Behold, I have sentenced you to die”

because of the woman whom you have taken, because she

Quote: עַל הָ⁠אִשָּׁ֣ה אֲשֶׁר לָקַ֔חְתָּ וְ⁠הִ֖וא (1)

See how you translated “took” in verse 2.

is married to a husband

Quote: בְּעֻ֥לַת בָּֽעַל (1)

Alternate translation: “is a married woman!”

Genesis 20:4

Now Abimelech

Quote: וַ⁠אֲבִימֶ֕לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background

Consider what is the best way in your language to introduce this background information. Alternate translation: “Now King Abimelech”

had not gone near to her

Quote: לֹ֥א קָרַ֖ב אֵלֶ֑י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Translate this clause in a way that will not be offensive or embarrassing in your language when it is read aloud in public. See how you translated a different phrase in Gen 19:31 (“come to us”) that has the same meaning. Alternate translation: “had not yet slept with her” or “had not had marital relations with Sarah,”

so he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּאמַ֕ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

The way you translate this quote margin will depend on how you translate the rhetorical question that follows it.

My Lord

Quote: אֲדֹנָ֕⁠י (1)

See how you translated this title of respect for God in Gen 18:27, 30-32. Alternate translation: “My Master,” or “Master,”

will you kill a nation even though

Quote: הֲ⁠ג֥וֹי גַּם & תַּהֲרֹֽג (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

King Abimelech uses a rhetorical question here to express his desperate concern. Abimelech is saying in a dramatic way that if God kills him, he will destroy the nation that Abimelech leads as their king. Make sure in your translation that he does not sound angry or rude. Also, see how you translated nation in Gen 18:18. Alternate translation: “will you kill me and my people group even if” or “please do not kill me and my people group, since”

it is} righteous

Quote: צַדִּ֖יק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Consider again how you translated the word righteous in the book of Genesis. See Gen 6:9, 7:1, 18:23-26, 28; 20:4. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: “we are actually righteous”

Genesis 20:5

Did not he himself say to me, ‘She {is} my sister

Quote: הֲ⁠לֹ֨א ה֤וּא אָֽמַר לִ⁠י֙ אֲחֹ֣תִ⁠י הִ֔וא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Abimelech uses another rhetorical question here as he continues to defend his actions. Do what is best in your language. Also, see how you translated sister in verse 2. Alternate translation: “He himself told me that she was his sister.”

And she herself also said, ‘He {is} my brother

Quote: וְ⁠הִֽיא גַם הִ֥וא אָֽמְרָ֖ה אָחִ֣⁠י ה֑וּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote. Alternate translation: “And Sarah herself also claimed that he was her brother.”

I did this

Quote: עָשִׂ֥יתִי זֹֽאת (1)

Alternate translation: “So I did what I did”

in the integrity of my heart

Quote: בְּ⁠תָם לְבָבִ֛⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Alternate translation: “with a clear conscience” or “with pure motives”

and in the innocence of my hands

Quote: וּ⁠בְ⁠נִקְיֹ֥ן כַּפַּ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

If you use an exclamation point here in your translation, make sure it does not mean that King Abimelech is angry or being rude; rather, he is desperate. Alternate translation: “and with clean hands!”

Genesis 20:6

Then God said to him in the dream

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּאמֶר֩ אֵלָ֨י⁠ו הָֽ⁠אֱלֹהִ֜ים בַּ⁠חֲלֹ֗ם (1)

Alternate translation: “God answered King Abimelech in the dream,”

Yes, I know that

Quote: גַּ֣ם אָנֹכִ֤י יָדַ֨עְתִּי֙ כִּ֤י (1)

Alternate translation: “Yes, I know that it was” or “I am aware that it was”

in the integrity of your heart

Quote: בְ⁠תָם לְבָבְ⁠ךָ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 5. Alternate translation: “with a clear conscience” or “with pure motives”

you did this

Quote: עָשִׂ֣יתָ זֹּ֔את (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to put this phrase before the previous one and say, “Yes, I know/realize that you did this with honorable/pure motives …” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “that you did this,” or “that you took her to be your wife,”

and indeed I kept you from sinning against me

Quote: וָ⁠אֶחְשֹׂ֧ךְ גַּם־אָנֹכִ֛י אֽוֹתְ⁠ךָ֖ מֵ⁠חֲטוֹ־לִ֑⁠י (1)

In the Hebrew text, I is an emphatic pronoun. Try to communicate that emphasis in a natural way in your translation. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “and in fact, it is I who kept you from doing this sin against me.” or “In fact, I am the one who prevented you from sinning against me.”

I did not allow you

Quote: לֹא נְתַתִּ֖י⁠ךָ (1)

Alternate translation: “I did not permit you to”

to touch her

Quote: לִ⁠נְגֹּ֥עַ אֵלֶֽי⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

See how you translated the idiom “gone/come near to her” in verse 4, which has a meaning that is similar to the idiom here. Also, for some languages it may be better to change the order of these clauses and say, “I am the one who did not allow/permit you to touch her so that you would not sin against me.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “have sexual relations with her.” or “do anything to her.”

Genesis 20:7

return the wife of the man

Quote: הָשֵׁ֤ב אֵֽשֶׁת הָ⁠אִישׁ֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “return her to her husband Abraham”

because he {is} a prophet

Quote: כִּֽי נָבִ֣יא ה֔וּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, a prophet is someone who speaks for someone else. In this case, Abraham serves as an intercessor and speaks for God and prays what God wants him to say (verses 7,17). Avoid a translation of this term that focuses on telling the future, which is only one of the things that a prophet might do. Alternate translation: “He is a prophet for me,”

and he will pray for you

Quote: וְ⁠יִתְפַּלֵּ֥ל בַּֽעַדְ⁠ךָ֖ (1)

Alternate translation: “so he will ask me to be kind to you,”

and you will live

Quote: וֶֽ⁠חְיֵ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “and I will let you live.”

But if you do not

Quote: וְ⁠אִם־אֵֽינְ⁠ךָ֣ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

Alternate translation: “But if you will not”

return her

Quote: מֵשִׁ֗יב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Alternate translation: “give her back to him”

know that

Quote: דַּ֚ע כִּי (1)

Alternate translation: “you need to know that” or “be aware that”

you will surely die, you and all who {belong} to you

Quote: מ֣וֹת תָּמ֔וּת אַתָּ֖ה וְ⁠כָל אֲשֶׁר לָֽ⁠ךְ (1)

The phrase all who belong to you refers to King Abimelech’s people, whom he referred to in verse 4. Make sure that is clear in your translation. Alternate translation: “you and all your people will surely die!” or “I will surely kill you and all your people!”

Genesis 20:8

So Abimelech got up early in the morning

Quote: וַ⁠יַּשְׁכֵּ֨ם אֲבִימֶ֜לֶךְ בַּ⁠בֹּ֗קֶר (1)

Alternate translation: “So the next morning King Abimelech got up early”

and called

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָא֙ (1)

Alternate translation: “summoned”

for all of his servants

Quote: לְ⁠כָל עֲבָדָ֔י⁠ו (1)

Alternate translation: “all his officials and other servants,”

and he told all those things in their ears

Quote: וַ⁠יְדַבֵּ֛ר אֶת כָּל הַ⁠דְּבָרִ֥ים הָ⁠אֵ֖לֶּה בְּ⁠אָזְנֵי⁠הֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Then he told them about everything that God had said to him in the dream,” or “He told told them everything that had happened,”

and the men were very afraid

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽירְא֥וּ הָ⁠אֲנָשִׁ֖ים מְאֹֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to King Abimelech’s servants at each point in this verse. Alternate translation: “and they felt terrified.” or “When they heard that, they were very afraid that God would kill them.” or “As soon as they heard that, the men were very afraid of what might happen next.”

Genesis 20:9

Then Abimelech called

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֨א אֲבִימֶ֜לֶךְ (1)

Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to King Abimelech at this point in the paragraph. Alternate translation: “Then King Abimelech summoned Abraham” or “Then the king called Abraham in to see him” or “Then he had Abraham brought to him”

and said to him

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר ל֜⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

The way you translate this quote margin will depend on how you translate the rhetorical question that follows it. Alternate translation: “and asked him,”

What have you done to us

Quote: מֶֽה עָשִׂ֤יתָ לָּ֨⁠נוּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Abimelech uses two rhetorical questions here to express his anger and to scold Abraham for what he had done. Consider whether or not a rhetorical question is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: “Why have you treated us like this?” or “What you have done to us is not right!”

And how have I sinned against you so that

Quote: וּ⁠מֶֽה חָטָ֣אתִי לָ֔⁠ךְ כִּֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Alternate translation: “What did I do wrong to you so that” or “I never did anything wrong to you, but yet”

you brought a great sin on me and on my kingdom

Quote: הֵבֵ֧אתָ עָלַ֛⁠י וְ⁠עַל מַמְלַכְתִּ֖⁠י חֲטָאָ֣ה גְדֹלָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Make sure your punctuation here fits with how you translate this rhetorical question. Alternate translation: “you brought on me and my people the guilt of a terrible sin!” or “you have caused me and the kingdom that I rule to be guilty of sinning terribly!”

You have done deeds to me that should not be done

Quote: מַעֲשִׂים֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר לֹא יֵֽעָשׂ֔וּ עָשִׂ֖יתָ עִמָּדִֽ⁠י (1)

Alternate translation: “No one should ever wrong someone the way you have wronged me!”

Genesis 20:10

Then Abimelech said to Abraham

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֥אמֶר אֲבִימֶ֖לֶךְ אֶל אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

For some languages it is more natural here to omit this quote margin, because the same person is still talking to the same person. However, the words emphasize what King Abimelech says next and may indicate that there was a pause between what he said in verse 9 and in verse 10. Do what is best in your language.

What were you looking for when you did

Quote: מָ֣ה רָאִ֔יתָ כִּ֥י עָשִׂ֖יתָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Alternate translation: “What did you expect to benefit from doing” or “What were your reasons for doing”

this thing

Quote: אֶת הַ⁠דָּבָ֥ר הַ⁠זֶּֽה (1)

Alternate translation: “this terrible thing?”

Genesis 20:11

And Abraham answered

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)

Alternate translation: “Abraham replied to him,”

Because

Quote: כִּ֣י (1)

Alternate translation: “I did it because”

I said, ‘Surely there is no fear of God in this place, so they will kill me because of my wife

Quote: אָמַ֗רְתִּי רַ֚ק אֵין יִרְאַ֣ת אֱלֹהִ֔ים בַּ⁠מָּק֖וֹם הַ⁠זֶּ֑ה וַ⁠הֲרָג֖וּ⁠נִי עַל דְּבַ֥ר אִשְׁתִּֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

To “fear God” is an important theme in the Bible. It is a complex term that means to recognize how holy and powerful God is and to deeply respect and honor him by obeying and worshiping him. Also, consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote. Alternate translation: “I thought that there was certainly no one in this place who obeyed God, so I was afraid that they would kill me in order to take my wife for themselves.”

Genesis 20:12

And also

Quote: וְ⁠גַם (1)

Alternate translation: “In addition to that,”

she truly {is} my sister

Quote: אָמְנָ֗ה אֲחֹתִ֤⁠י & הִ֔וא (1)

Alternate translation: “it is true that she is my sister” or “she actually is my sister”

the daughter of my father but not the daughter of my mother

Quote: בַת אָבִ⁠י֙ & אַ֖ךְ לֹ֣א בַת אִמִּ֑⁠י (1)

Alternate translation: “because she and I have the same father, but not the same mother,”

and she became my wife

Quote: וַ⁠תְּהִי־לִ֖⁠י לְ⁠אִשָּֽׁה (1)

Alternate translation: “and when we were old enough, I married her.”

Genesis 20:13

And it happened

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֞י (1)

Alternate translation: “It happened that”

when God caused me to wander

Quote: כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֧ר הִתְע֣וּ אֹתִ֗⁠י אֱלֹהִים֮ (1)

Alternate translation: “when God commanded me to leave” or “when God led me to travel away from”

from the house of my father

Quote: מִ⁠בֵּ֣ית אָבִ⁠י֒ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated “house of … father” in Gen 12:1. Alternate translation: “the place where my father and other relatives were living,”

then I said to her

Quote: וָ⁠אֹמַ֣ר לָ֔⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “I told her”

This {is} your kindness that you can do for me: At every place where we go, say about me, “He {is} my brother

Quote: זֶ֣ה חַסְדֵּ֔⁠ךְ אֲשֶׁ֥ר תַּעֲשִׂ֖י עִמָּדִ֑⁠י אֶ֤ל כָּל־הַ⁠מָּקוֹם֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר נָב֣וֹא שָׁ֔מָּ⁠ה אִמְרִי־לִ֖⁠י אָחִ֥⁠י הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

Consider whether it is better in your language to translate these embedded quotes as direct or indirect quotes. Alternate translation: “to please do me a special favor and tell people wherever we go that I am her brother.”

Genesis 20:14

flocks and herds

Quote: צֹ֣אן וּ⁠בָקָ֗ר (1)

See how you translated this phrase in Gen 12:16. Alternate translation: “flocks of sheep and herds of cattle”

and men slaves and women slaves

Quote: וַ⁠עֲבָדִים֙ וּ⁠שְׁפָחֹ֔ת (1)

See how you translated this phrase in Gen 12:16. Alternate translation: “and men and women slaves to Abraham” or “and male and female slaves to Abraham”

and gave them to Abraham

Quote: וַ⁠יִּתֵּ֖ן לְ⁠אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Alternate translation: “and gave them all to Abraham”

and he returned Sarah his wife to him

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֣שֶׁב ל֔⁠וֹ אֵ֖ת שָׂרָ֥ה אִשְׁתּֽ⁠וֹ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, see how you translated “return” twice in verse 7. Alternate translation: “He also gave back to Abraham his wife Sarah.”

Genesis 20:15

Then Abimelech said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר אֲבִימֶ֔לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “Then he said to him”

Behold

Quote: הִנֵּ֥ה (1)

Alternate translation: “Listen,”

my land {is} before you

Quote: אַרְצִ֖⁠י לְ⁠פָנֶ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the idiom “before your face” in Gen 13:9. Alternate translation: “my land is in front of you.”

Settle

Quote: שֵֽׁב (1)

See how you translated this verb in verse 1. Alternate translation: “You may live” or “I invite you to live”

wherever {is} good in your eyes

Quote: בַּ⁠טּ֥וֹב בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֖י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the idiom good in your eyes in Gen 19:8. You may need to translate this phrase in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: “wherever you decide is best for you.” or “wherever you want.”

Genesis 20:16

And to Sarah he said

Quote: וּ⁠לְ⁠שָׂרָ֣ה אָמַ֗ר (1)

Alternate translation: “Then King Abimelech said to Sarah,”

Behold

Quote: הִנֵּ֨ה (1)

Alternate translation: “Look,” or “Listen to this:”

I have given 1, 000 {shekels of} silver to your brother

Quote: נָתַ֜תִּי אֶ֤לֶף כֶּ֨סֶף֙ לְ⁠אָחִ֔י⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney

Coins did not exist at that time. Rather people paid each other with shekels of silver or gold shekels, which was a weight measurement. A thousand shekels of silver was about 25 pounds (11.5 kilos) of silver. Many translation teams like to keep the same numbers that are in the Hebrew text in their translation, and then in a footnote give the equivalent amount in their own currency. Other teams put the equivalent amount in the text and put the literal phrase in a footnote. Alternate translation: “I have given 1,000 pieces of silver to your brother.” or “I have given your brother 1,000 pieces of silver.”

Behold, that {is

Quote: הִנֵּ֤ה הוּא (1)

Alternate translation: “I am doing this” or “The reason I am doing that is”

for you a covering of the eyes before all who {are} with you

Quote: לָ⁠ךְ֙ כְּס֣וּת עֵינַ֔יִם לְ⁠כֹ֖ל אֲשֶׁ֣ר אִתָּ֑⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase a covering of the eyes is an idiom which means that King Abimelech’s payment to Abraham “covered” (that is, “protected”) Sarah’s good reputation and showed that she was innocent. Alternate translation: “to show everyone that you are innocent of any wrongdoing,” or “to show to everyone that you are an honorable woman,”

so that you are vindicated for everything

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֥ת כֹּ֖ל וְ⁠נֹכָֽחַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

Alternate translation: “and to make it clear that you are not at fault for anything that happened.”

Genesis 20:17

Then Abraham prayed to God

Quote: וַ⁠יִּתְפַּלֵּ֥ל אַבְרָהָ֖ם אֶל הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)

See how you translated “pray” in Gen 20:7. Alternate translation: “Then Abraham prayed to God for King Abimelech,” or “asked God to be kind to the king,”

and God healed Abimelech

Quote: וַ⁠יִּרְפָּ֨א אֱלֹהִ֜ים אֶת אֲבִימֶ֧לֶךְ (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “So God healed him”

and his wife and his slave women

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת אִשְׁתּ֛⁠וֹ וְ⁠אַמְהֹתָ֖י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to King Abimelech at each point in this verse.

so that they bore children

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּלֵֽדוּ (1)

Alternate translation: “and they were able to conceive and bear children again,”

Genesis 20:18

because Yahweh

Quote: כִּֽי & יְהוָ֔ה (1)

For some languages it may be more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “because previously Yahweh”

had completely closed up every womb in the house of Abimelech

Quote: עָצֹ֤ר עָצַר֙ & בְּעַ֥ד כָּל רֶ֖חֶם לְ⁠בֵ֣ית אֲבִימֶ֑לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics

Consider again how often you need to use the honorific title “King” with Abimelech’s name in this chapter in your language.

because of

Quote: עַל דְּבַ֥ר (1)

Alternate translation: “on account of” or “to punish him for taking”

Sarah, the wife of Abraham

Quote: שָׂרָ֖ה אֵ֥שֶׁת אַבְרָהָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-versebridge

For some languages, it may be more natural to change the order of the clauses in this sentence (which begins in verse 17) and say, “Before this, Yahweh had completely closed up every womb in the household of King Abimelech because he had taken Abraham’s wife Sarah. Then Abraham prayed …” If the order is changed, it will be necessary to combine these two verses and to put the verse numbers “17-18” in front of the sentence. Some translation teams have decided that they will never combine verses like that. Other teams have decided that occasionally it is acceptable to do that if it makes the meaning clearer.

Genesis 21

Genesis 21:1

Then Yahweh visited Sarah as he had said

Quote: וַֽ⁠יהוָ֛ה פָּקַ֥ד אֶת שָׂרָ֖ה כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֣ר אָמָ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The word visited is used here as an idiom that means God blessed Sarah and was kind to her (by enabling her to have a son). The same idiom is used in 1 Samuel 2:21 and Luke 1:68. Alternate translation: “Then Yahweh blessed Sarah as he had promised that he would,” or “Then Yahweh was gracious to Sarah just as he had promised he would be,”

and Yahweh did for Sarah

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֧עַשׂ יְהוָ֛ה לְ⁠שָׂרָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

The two halves of verse 1 form a parallelism to emphasize what God did for Sarah. In your translation it is best, if possible, to keep both parts of the parallelism, since each part has a different emphasis. Alternate translation: “Yes, Yahweh did for her”

as he had said

Quote: כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֥ר דִּבֵּֽר (1)

Alternate translation: “just as he had said he would do”

Genesis 21:2

so that Sarah conceived

Quote: וַ⁠תַּהַר֩ & שָׂרָ֧ה (1)

Translate this clause in a way that is not offensive or awkward, especially when read aloud in public. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “So she became pregnant” or “As a result, Sarah conceived”

and bore a son

Quote: וַ⁠תֵּ֨לֶד & בֵּ֖ן (1)

Alternate translation: “and gave birth to a son” or “and had a son”

at the appointed time

Quote: לַ⁠מּוֹעֵ֕ד (1)

See how you translated appointed time in Gen 18:14. Alternate translation: “at the set time” or “at the time God had set” or “That happened at the exact time”

which God had told him

Quote: אֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּ֥ר אֹת֖⁠וֹ אֱלֹהִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of the clauses in this sentence and say, “So Sarah became pregnant, and at the time God had appointed/set, she gave birth to a son for Abraham when he was old, just as God had told/promised him that she would.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “when God had told him it would happen.”

Genesis 21:3

And Abraham called the name of his son who was born to him

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֨א אַבְרָהָ֜ם אֶֽת שֶׁם בְּנ֧⁠וֹ הַ⁠נּֽוֹלַד ל֛⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “Then Abraham called his son,”

whom Sarah bore for him, Isaac

Quote: אֲשֶׁר יָלְדָה לּ֥⁠וֹ שָׂרָ֖ה יִצְחָֽק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Many translations include the meaning of Isaac’s name, either in the text or in a footnote. Do what is best in your language.

Genesis 21:4

And Abraham circumcised

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֤מָל אַבְרָהָם֙ (1)

Abraham may have circumcised Isaac (verse 4) on the same day that he named him (verse 3). See how you translated circumcised in Gen 17:10-14. Alternate translation: “And he also circumcised”

his son Isaac

Quote: אֶת יִצְחָ֣ק בְּנ֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Consider what is the best way to refer to Isaac at this point in the paragraph, in your language. Alternate translation: “his son,”

a son of eight days

Quote: בֶּן שְׁמֹנַ֖ת יָמִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be more natural to put this phrase first in this verse and say, “Also, when Isaac was eight days old, Abraham circumcised him,” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “who was eight days old,” or “when he was eight days old,”

just as God had commanded him

Quote: כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֛ר צִוָּ֥ה אֹת֖⁠וֹ אֱלֹהִֽים (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “He did exactly what God had commanded him to do.”

Genesis 21:5

And Abraham {was} a son of 100 years

Quote: וְ⁠אַבְרָהָ֖ם בֶּן מְאַ֣ת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this clause in Gen 17:17.

when Isaac his son was born to him

Quote: בְּ⁠הִוָּ֣לֶד ל֔⁠וֹ אֵ֖ת יִצְחָ֥ק בְּנֽ⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “when Isaac was born.”

Genesis 21:6

And Sarah said

Quote: וַ⁠תֹּ֣אמֶר שָׂרָ֔ה (1)

Alternate translation: “When Isaac was born, Sarah said”

God has brought laughter to me

Quote: צְחֹ֕ק עָ֥שָׂה לִ֖⁠י אֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)

Alternate translation: “God has enabled me to rejoice and laugh!”

Everyone who hears

Quote: כָּל הַ⁠שֹּׁמֵ֖עַ (1)

Alternate translation: “Everyone who finds out what he has done for me”

will laugh with me

Quote: יִֽצְחַק לִֽ⁠י (1)

Alternate translation: “will rejoice and laugh with me!”

Genesis 21:7

And she said

Quote: וַ⁠תֹּ֗אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Alternate translation: “Then she added” or “She also said”

Who would have said to Abraham

Quote: מִ֤י מִלֵּל֙ לְ⁠אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Sarah uses a rhetorical question here to express great joy and amazement. Some languages must use a statement or exclamation here instead. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “No one would have ever told Abraham” or “No one would have ever thought of telling Abraham”

that} Sarah would nurse children

Quote: הֵינִ֥יקָה בָנִ֖ים שָׂרָ֑ה (1)

Alternate translation: “that I would bear children.”

Yet

Quote: כִּֽי (1)

Alternate translation: “But yet” or “In spite of that,”

I have born a son

Quote: יָלַ֥דְתִּי בֵ֖ן (1)

See how you translated “bear” in Gen 18:13. Alternate translation: “I have had a son for him”

in his old age

Quote: לִ⁠זְקֻנָֽי⁠ו (1)

See how you translated this phrase in verse 2. You may need to translate it in a different way here because of the slightly different context. Alternate translation: “even though he is old!”

Genesis 21:8

Then the child grew

Quote: וַ⁠יִּגְדַּ֥ל הַ⁠יֶּ֖לֶד (1)

Alternate translation: “The boy Isaac grew”

and was weaned

Quote: וַ⁠יִּגָּמַ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Children in that culture were often weaned around the age of three. Translate weaned in a way that will not embarrass or offend people. Alternate translation: “and his mother weaned him,” or “and reached the age when his mother stopped breast-feeding him,”

and Abraham made a great feast on the day Isaac was weaned

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֤עַשׂ אַבְרָהָם֙ מִשְׁתֶּ֣ה גָד֔וֹל בְּ⁠י֖וֹם הִגָּמֵ֥ל אֶת יִצְחָֽק (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “When that happened, Abraham held a elaborate feast to celebrate.” or “On that same day, Abraham had his servants prepare an elaborate feast to celebrate.”

Genesis 21:9

And Sarah saw

Quote: וַ⁠תֵּ֨רֶא שָׂרָ֜ה (1)

Alternate translation: “But at the feast Sarah saw”

that} the son of Hagar the Egyptian, whom she had born for Abraham

Quote: אֶֽת בֶּן הָגָ֧ר הַ⁠מִּצְרִ֛ית אֲשֶׁר יָלְדָ֥ה לְ⁠אַבְרָהָ֖ם (1)

Also see how you translated “have born” in verse 8. Alternate translation: “that the son whom Hagar, her handmaid from the country of Egypt, had given birth to for Abraham”

was mocking

Quote: מְצַחֵֽק (1)

Alternate translation: “was mocking Isaac.” or “was laughing at Isaac.”

Genesis 21:10

So she said to Abraham

Quote: וַ⁠תֹּ֨אמֶר֙ לְ⁠אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “So she was upset and told Abraham,”

Drive away

Quote: גָּרֵ֛שׁ (1)

Alternate translation: “Send away”

that slave woman

Quote: הָ⁠אָמָ֥ה הַ⁠זֹּ֖את (1)

See how you translated “slave women” in Gen 20:17. Some languages may have a single word (as Hebrew does) that means this. Alternate translation: “that female slave”

and her son

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת בְּנָ֑⁠הּ (1)

Alternate translation: “along with her son!”

because the son of that slave woman

Quote: כִּ֣י & בֶּן הָ⁠אָמָ֣ה הַ⁠זֹּ֔את (1)

Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “The son of that slave woman”

will not inherit with my son, with Isaac

Quote: לֹ֤א יִירַשׁ֙ & עִם בְּנִ֖⁠י עִם יִצְחָֽק (1)

Alternate translation: “will never inherit any part of what our son Isaac inherits from you!” or “will not get anything from you! Only my son Isaac should inherit your estate!”

Genesis 21:11

And the matter was very distressing in the eyes of Abraham

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֧רַע הַ⁠דָּבָ֛ר מְאֹ֖ד בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֣י אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Alternate translation: “Abraham felt very grieved about that” or “What Sarah said grieved Abraham very much”

on account of his son

Quote: עַ֖ל אוֹדֹ֥ת בְּנֽ⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “because of his son Ishmael.” or “because he also cared about his son Ishmael.”

Genesis 21:12

But God said to Abraham

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֜ים אֶל אַבְרָהָ֗ם (1)

Alternate translation: “Then God said to him,” or “Then God told him,”

Do not be distressed in your eyes

Quote: אַל יֵרַ֤ע בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated “distressing” in verse 11. Alternate translation: “Do not be sad” or “Do not let yourself be upset”

because of the boy and because of your slave woman

Quote: עַל הַ⁠נַּ֣עַר וְ⁠עַל אֲמָתֶ֔⁠ךָ (1)

Ishmael was about 17 years old at this time, so in verses 12-16 use terms for him in your language that fit with that fact. Alternate translation: “about the boy or your slave woman.”

All that Sarah says to you, listen to her voice

Quote: כֹּל֩ אֲשֶׁ֨ר תֹּאמַ֥ר אֵלֶ֛י⁠ךָ שָׂרָ֖ה שְׁמַ֣ע בְּ⁠קֹלָ֑⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The word listen means to hear and do what is being asked. Also, the phrase her voice refers to Sarah and what she said. Alternate translation: “Rather, listen to whatever Sarah tells you to do, and do it,” or “Do everything that Sarah told you to do,”

because in Isaac, offspring will be called yours

Quote: כִּ֣י בְ⁠יִצְחָ֔ק יִקָּרֵ֥א לְ⁠ךָ֖ זָֽרַע (1)

Alternate translation: “because it is in Isaac that the descendants I promised you will be reckoned” or “because Isaac is the one who will be the ancestor of the descendants that I promised to give you.” or “because the offspring that I promised to you will come from Isaac.”

Genesis 21:13

And the son of the slave woman I will also make

Quote: וְ⁠גַ֥ם אֶת־בֶּן־הָ⁠אָמָ֖ה & אֲשִׂימֶ֑⁠נּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

Alternate translation: “But I will also make the son of your servant woman”

into a nation

Quote: לְ⁠ג֣וֹי (1)

Alternate translation: “become the ancestor of an important people group,”

because he {is} your offspring

Quote: כִּ֥י זַרְעֲ⁠ךָ֖ הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages, it may be clearer or more natural to put this “because …” clause earlier in this sentence and say, “And/But because/since the son of your slave/servant woman is your offspring/son, I will also make him into a great/important/large people/ethnic group.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “since he is your descendant.”

Genesis 21:14

Then Abraham got up early in the morning

Quote: וַ⁠יַּשְׁכֵּ֣ם אַבְרָהָ֣ם בַּ⁠בֹּ֡קֶר (1)

Alternate translation: “So Abraham got up early the next morning,”

and took bread

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽקַּֽח לֶחֶם֩ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

This phrase may refer to bread or more generally to food. Alternate translation: “got some food”

and a skin of water

Quote: וְ⁠חֵ֨מַת מַ֜יִם (1)

The word skin refers here to an animal skin or hide. Alternate translation: “and a leather bag full of water” or “and a full water bag made of animal hide” or “and a water bag full of water”

and gave them to Hagar, putting them on her shoulder

Quote: וַ⁠יִּתֵּ֣ן אֶל הָ֠גָר שָׂ֧ם עַל שִׁכְמָ֛⁠הּ (1)

Alternate translation: “to Hagar and put them on her shoulder”

Then {he gave her} the child and sent her away

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת הַ⁠יֶּ֖לֶד וַֽ⁠יְשַׁלְּחֶ֑⁠הָ (1)

Alternate translation: “Then he sent her and the boy away,” or “Then he sent her off with the youth,”

and she left and wandered

Quote: וַ⁠תֵּ֣לֶךְ וַ⁠תֵּ֔תַע (1)

Alternate translation: “and she left and wandered around” or “and they wandered around”

in the wilderness of Beersheba

Quote: בְּ⁠מִדְבַּ֖ר בְּאֵ֥ר שָֽׁבַע (1)

Sometimes in the Bible a place is identified by the well-known name it will be called later. That is the case in this verse, since Beersheba is not given its name until verse 31. Alternate translation: “in the Beersheba Desert.” or “in the desert near the city that was later called Beersheba.”

Genesis 21:15

And when the water from the skin was gone

Quote: וַ⁠יִּכְל֥וּ הַ⁠מַּ֖יִם מִן הַ⁠חֵ֑מֶת (1)

See how you translated skin in verse 14. Alternate translation: “When they had drunk all the water that they had in the water container,” or “When there was no more water in the water skin” or “When the water bag was empty,”

then she threw

Quote: וַ⁠תַּשְׁלֵ֣ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Make sure your translation of this idiom does not mean that Hagar literally threw Ishmael through the air. Alternate translation: “Hagar hurriedly put”

the child

Quote: אֶת הַ⁠יֶּ֔לֶד (1)

Alternate translation: “the boy”

under one of the bushes

Quote: תַּ֖חַת אַחַ֥ד הַ⁠שִּׂיחִֽם (1)

Alternate translation: “under the shade of one of the bushes there,” or “under the shade of a nearby bush,”

Genesis 21:16

and she went and sat down by herself at a distance

Quote: וַ⁠תֵּלֶךְ֩ וַ⁠תֵּ֨שֶׁב לָ֜⁠הּ מִ⁠נֶּ֗גֶד (1)

Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Then she went away from him and sat down by herself,”

as far away as they shoot a bow

Quote: הַרְחֵק֙ כִּ⁠מְטַחֲוֵ֣י קֶ֔שֶׁת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance

If you do not translate the text literally, the literal text could be put in a footnote. Alternate translation: “about as far away as someone can shoot a bow” or “about a hundred yards away,”

because she said

Quote: כִּ֣י אָֽמְרָ֔ה (1)

Alternate translation: “because she said to herself,” or “She said to herself,”

Do not let me look on the death of the child

Quote: אַל אֶרְאֶ֖ה בְּ⁠מ֣וֹת הַ⁠יָּ֑לֶד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnoun

Consider whether it is better to use a noun (death) or a verb (“die”) in your translation here. Also, see how you translated child in verses 14 and 15. Alternate translation: “I cannot bear to see my son die!”

And {as} she sat at a distance, then she lifted her voice and sobbed

Quote: וַ⁠תֵּ֣שֶׁב מִ⁠נֶּ֔גֶד וַ⁠תִּשָּׂ֥א אֶת קֹלָ֖⁠הּ וַ⁠תֵּֽבְךְּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be more natural to change the order of the clauses in this verse (so that the events are in the order that they actually occurred) and say, “She thought to herself, “I cannot bear to watch/see my son die.” So she went away from him and sat down by herself, about as far away as someone can shoot an arrow. Then she started crying loudly.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “As she sat there, she started sobbing loudly.” or “Then she started sobbing loudly.”

Genesis 21:17

And God heard the voice of the boy

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁמַ֣ע אֱלֹהִים֮ אֶת ק֣וֹל הַ⁠נַּעַר֒ (1)

Alternate translation: “God also heard the youth crying,”

so the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven and said to her

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָא֩ מַלְאַ֨ךְ אֱלֹהִ֤ים אֶל הָגָר֙ מִן הַ⁠שָּׁמַ֔יִם וַ⁠יֹּ֥אמֶר לָ֖⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-key-terms

See how you translated the key term angel in Gen 16:7. Alternate translation: “so one of his messengers called to Hagar from heaven and said” or “so he had one of his messengers call to Hagar from heaven and say”

What {troubles} you, Hagar

Quote: מַה לָּ֣⁠ךְ הָגָ֑ר (1)

For some languages it is necessary to put Hagar first in this quote. Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Hagar, why are you upset?”

Do not be afraid, because God has listened to the voice of the boy where he {is} there

Quote: אַל תִּ֣ירְאִ֔י כִּֽי שָׁמַ֧ע אֱלֹהִ֛ים אֶל ק֥וֹל הַ⁠נַּ֖עַר בַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֥ר הוּא שָֽׁם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase has listened to means that God heard the boy and that he will help him. Alternate translation: “Do not be afraid, because God has heard the cries of the boy where he is lying and will take care of him.” or “Do not be afraid. God has heard the youth crying over there and will take care of him.” or “God has heard the youth crying over there, so do not be afraid because he will take care of you both.”

Genesis 21:18

Get up, lift the boy

Quote: ק֚וּמִי שְׂאִ֣י אֶת הַ⁠נַּ֔עַר (1)

Alternate translation: “So go help the youth to stand up,” or “So now, go to your son, help him get up,”

and hold on to him with your hand

Quote: וְ⁠הַחֲזִ֥יקִי אֶת יָדֵ֖⁠ךְ בּ֑⁠וֹ (1)

Alternate translation: “and lead him by the hand to help him walk,”

because I will make him

Quote: כִּֽי & אֲשִׂימֶֽ⁠נּוּ (1)

The pronoun I refers to Yahweh here. So either Yahweh had taken on the form of an angel, or the angel was representing Yahweh and speaking for him. See what you did for a similar case in Gen 16:10. Also, see how you translated “make … into a great nation” in verse 13. Also see 18:18, which is similar. Alternate translation: “because Yahweh will make his descendants become”

into a great nation

Quote: לְ⁠ג֥וֹי גָּד֖וֹל (1)

See how you translated nation in verse 13. Alternate translation: “an large ethnic group.”

Genesis 21:19

Then God opened her eyes and she saw

Quote: וַ⁠יִּפְקַ֤ח אֱלֹהִים֙ אֶת עֵינֶ֔י⁠הָ וַ⁠תֵּ֖רֶא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Alternate translation: “Then God helped her to see”

a well of water

Quote: בְּאֵ֣ר מָ֑יִם (1)

See how you translated well in Gen 16:14. Alternate translation: “a well.”

So she went

Quote: וַ⁠תֵּ֜לֶךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “So she walked over to the well,”

and filled the skin {with} water

Quote: וַ⁠תְּמַלֵּ֤א אֶת הַ⁠חֵ֨מֶת֙ מַ֔יִם (1)

See how you translated skin in verses 14-15. Alternate translation: “filled the water bag with water,”

and gave the boy a drink

Quote: וַ⁠תַּ֖שְׁקְ אֶת הַ⁠נָּֽעַר (1)

Alternate translation: “and gave Ishmael a drink from it.”

Genesis 21:20

And God was with the boy

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֧י אֱלֹהִ֛ים אֶת הַ⁠נַּ֖עַר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This clause means that God guided, helped, protected, and blessed Ishmael, that is, he took care of him. Consider whether or not your language has an idiom that fits well here. Also consider again how you translated “boy/youth” in verses 12, 17-20. Alternate translation: “God was with the boy and blessed him,”

and he grew up. And he lived

Quote: וַ⁠יִּגְדָּ֑ל וַ⁠יֵּ֨שֶׁב֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of the clauses in this verse and say, “As the boy/youth grew up/older, God was with him and helped/blessed him.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: “as he grew up”

And he lived in the wilderness

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֨שֶׁב֙ בַּ⁠מִּדְבָּ֔ר (1)

For some languages it is more natural to specify here in verse 20 that the name of the wilderness is Paran, rather than wait until verse 21, so that it is clear that both verses refer to the same wilderness. See how you translated the wilderness in verse 14. Alternate translation: “And he lived in the desert of Paran” or “He lived in the Paran Wilderness”

and became a great bowman

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֖י רֹבֶ֥ה קַשָּֽׁת (1)

Alternate translation: “and became a skilled bowhunter”

Genesis 21:21

And {while} he was living in the wilderness of Paran

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֖שֶׁב בְּ⁠מִדְבַּ֣ר פָּארָ֑ן (1)

See how you translated wilderness in verse 20. Alternate translation: “While he was living in the Paran Wilderness” or “While he was living in that desert,”

then his mother took a wife for him

Quote: וַ⁠תִּֽקַּֽח ל֥�