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
Genesis 1 Chapter Introduction
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)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)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-unknown
This phrase, the heavens, 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)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 [everywhere there was deep water 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]
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)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. The word good 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 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 He 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.
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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
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 it 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 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
See how you translated this phrase in verses 6 and 7. Alternate translation: [the vast space]
Heavens
Quote: שָׁמָ֑יִם (1)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 landmass 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 bear 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 kind 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, the 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 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]
And let them be for signs
Quote: וְהָי֤וּ לְאֹתֹת֙ (1)Alternate translation: [Let those lights also be] or [They will also serve as markers] or [I also command those lights 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. Alternate translation: [They must/will also mark/indicate when important things happen] 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. The 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 [everywhere 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 created] 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 to what them refers. 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo
For some languages, “waters 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: לְמִינָ֗הּ (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 (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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns
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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo
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)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
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]
In the image of God he created him
Quote: בְּצֶ֥לֶם אֱלֹהִ֖ים בָּרָ֣א אֹת֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun him refers to the collective noun man, which in this case refers to human beings in general, not just one person.
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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing
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 it may be 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/figs-metaphor
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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This word calls attention to what God is looking at and helps emphasize that what he saw was very good. Alternate translation: [and indeed]
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 1:1. Alternate translation: [So it was that the heavens and the earth were finished by God] or [That is how God concluded making the heavens and the earth]
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]
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 אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָשָׂ֑ה (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)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 2:2. 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 1 of Genesis gives an overview of what God did each day of creation week, including that he created human beings on day six. Chapter 2 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)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/writing-poetry
This clause forms a poetic device called 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 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 yet started growing on the earth]
and every plant of the field had not yet sprung up
Quote: וְכָל־עֵ֥שֶׂב הַשָּׂדֶ֖ה טֶ֣רֶם יִצְמָ֑ח (1)See how you translated “plants” in 1:11-12 and 1:29-30. 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 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
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 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]
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; it implies artistic skills and design. See how you translated Yahweh God in 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 else 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 as dust (as in 13:16, 28:14), but it can also be translated as “dirt” (as in 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 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 (1:11-12), three days before he created man (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 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)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 of the 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 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 words winds or “meanders” mean 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]
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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 2:11. 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 2:11. Alternate translation: [It meanders through] or [which wanders throughout]
all of the land of Cush
Quote: אֵ֖ת כָּל־אֶ֥רֶץ כּֽוּשׁ (1)See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 2:11. 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 2:11 and 2:13. Alternate translation: [the land of Asshur]
And the fourth river {is
Quote: וְהַנָּהָ֥ר הָֽרְבִיעִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
See how you translated a similar phrase in verses 2:11 and 2:13-14. Also consider again whether it is best in your language to use present tense or past tense in verses 2:10-14. Alternate translation: [The name of the fourth river is] or [and the fourth river is]
Euphrates
Quote: פְרָֽת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Consider again how you translated the names of rivers in verses 2:11, 2:13-14.
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 situated 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 2:5. 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 & 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 directed the man]
From every tree of the garden you may freely eat
Quote: מִכֹּ֥ל עֵֽץ־הַגָּ֖ן אָכֹ֥ל תֹּאכֵֽל (1)Alternate translation: [You may eat all the fruit 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 2:9. 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 that you eat fruit from that tree] or [If you eat any fruit from that tree, on that same day] or [for 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]
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 2:7-8 and “dust from the ground” in verse 2:7. 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 Genesis 1:24 and 1:30. 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo
See how you translated this phrase in Genesis 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo
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 Genesis 2:19. 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 Genesis 2:18. Alternate translation: [but he could not find a fitting 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 made the man 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 2:21 and see the note about that there. Alternate translation: [used the part 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 2:19. Alternate translation: [Then he took her to Adam]
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 [joined 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 Genesis 2:5, 2:8, and 2:19.
was more crafty than every living thing of the field
Quote: הָיָ֣ה עָר֔וּם מִכֹּל֙ חַיַּ֣ת הַשָּׂדֶ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
By crafty, the author 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 Genesis 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 (2:4). 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 (2:8. 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, saying] 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 1:11-12, 1:29. 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, and you must not touch it, or else you will die
Quote: אָמַ֣ר אֱלֹהִ֗ים לֹ֤א תֹֽאכְלוּ֙ מִמֶּ֔נּוּ וְלֹ֥א תִגְּע֖וּ בּ֑וֹ פֶּן־תְּמֻתֽוּן׃ (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 or touch it, or else we will die!]
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 3:1-2. Alternate translation: [But the snake replied to her] or [But the snake replied]
Genesis 3:5
For God knows
Quote: כִּ֚י יֹדֵ֣עַ אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
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-youdual
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 Genesis 2:9 and 2:17. 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]
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 3:5. Alternate translation: [Immediately it was as if their minds were opened] or [Immediately they both had new understanding]
and they knew
Quote: וַיֵּ֣דְע֔וּ (1)Alternate translation: [so that they became aware]
that they {were} naked
Quote: כִּ֥י עֵֽירֻמִּ֖ם הֵ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author assumes that his readers will understand that this sense of nakedness led to a sense of shame.You could include this information if that would be helpful to your readers. 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 the leaves of the fig tree 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The narrator assumes that readers will know that 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. Alternate translation: [the sound of Yahweh God’s steps as he walked]
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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo
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 3:1 and 3:8. 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 Genesis 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 3:8. 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 3:1-6. Alternate translation: [gave me some fruit from that tree]
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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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: [Then the woman answered]
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/figs-explicit
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 Genesis 1:24-26 and 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 Genesis 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
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
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]
To multiply I will multiply your pain
Quote: הַרְבָּ֤ה אַרְבֶּה֙ עִצְּבוֹנֵ֣ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication
The speaker is repeating forms of the verb multiply in order to intensify the idea that it expresses. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the emphasis. Alternate translation: [I will cause you to have much pain] or [I will cause childbirth 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 Genesis 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 3:16. 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 3:3. Alternate translation: [from which I told you not to eat any fruit]
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 3:14. 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]
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 loaves of 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]
Genesis 3:20
Then the man called the name of his wife
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֧א הָֽאָדָ֛ם שֵׁ֥ם אִשְׁתּ֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Some translations use Adam’s name here because he is naming Eve. See what you did in verse 3:17. 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]
Genesis 3:21
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 Genesis 1:26, where said has the same meaning. Alternate translation: [Then he said] or [Then he said to himself]
Behold
Quote: הֵ֤ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This word expresses emotion and calls attention to what God says next. See how you translated this term in Genesis 1:29. Alternate translation: [Listen]
the man
Quote: הָֽאָדָם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations
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 3:5 and a similar phrase in Genesis 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 3:6. 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 Genesis 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations
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 Genesis 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 Genesis 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 Genesis 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 3:19. Alternate translation: [from which they had been taken by him] or [from which he had taken them]
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] or [then he placed]
on the east side of the Garden of Eden
Quote: מִקֶּ֨דֶם לְגַן־עֵ֜דֶן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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, 2:15-16 ; 3:1-3, 3:8, 3:10 and 3:23-24. 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
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 Genesis 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
For a note about when to begin referring to the man as Adam, see Genesis 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
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 Genesis 3:20.
And she said, “I have obtained
Quote: וַתֹּ֕אמֶר קָנִ֥יתִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
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. 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. Alternate translation: [because she exclaimed, “I have obtained] or [They named him that because Eve had said, “I have obtained]
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, when 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
Cain raised crops, not animals. See how you translated a similar phrase (“work the ground”) in Genesis 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
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)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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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 preparing 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential
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/translate-kinship
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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
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 Genesis 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated work the ground in Genesis 2:5 and 3:23; also see similar phrases in 4:2 and 4:11. 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, a phrase that expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. Consider what is the best way to translate that phrase in your language. Alternate translation: [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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This term emphasizes what Cain says next. See how you translated this term in Genesis 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated “drove/expelled” in Genesis 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 4:12. 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 felt. 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
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]
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 Genesis 2:8, 10, 15; 3:23-24; and 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 Genesis 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 Genesis 4:1. Alternate translation: [so that she became pregnant and gave birth to]
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 fathered] 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: [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]
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]
Genesis 4:20
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 space that has walls made of cloth or animal skins; the top 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
The term livestock includes all kinds of domestic animals, such as cows, sheep, goats, camels, and donkeys. See how you translated livestock in Genesis 1:24-26; 2:20, and 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 4:2. 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 4:20. 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 4:22. 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 this skill. Alternate translation: [He was the first person to forge] or [He was the first blacksmith, and he 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
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]
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 4:19-20, 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
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 verses 4:1 and 4:17. 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 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]
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 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 Genesis 1:1, 1:27; 2:4, and “man” in Genesis 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 (Genesis 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 Genesis 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 Genesis 1:22 and 1:28. 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
See how you translated the phrase “called … name” in Genesis 4:17 and 4:25,. Alternate translation: [and called them]
man{kind
Quote: אָדָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
Be consistent here with how you translated this term in verse 5:1.
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 and 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 Genesis 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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 5:6
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 Genesis 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]
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]
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 5:7, 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]
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]
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]
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]
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} he was not {there
Quote: וְאֵינֶ֕נּוּ (1)Alternate translation: [and suddenly he was not on earth anymore] or [and 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]
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, without the preceding comma: [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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
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 that 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 why 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/figs-idiom
Here, a son of 500 years is a common expression that means “was 500 years old.” If this phrase does not have that meaning in your language, you could use a comparable expression from your language that does have that meaning or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And Noah saw his 500th year] or [Noah turned 500 years old]
then Noah fathered Shem, Ham, and Japheth
Quote: וַיּ֣וֹלֶד נֹ֔חַ אֶת־שֵׁ֖ם אֶת־חָ֥ם וְאֶת־יָֽפֶת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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]
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 mankind in Genesis 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 the sons of God saw
Quote: וַיִּרְא֤וּ בְנֵי־הָֽאֱלֹהִים֙ (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 those girls grew up, and the sons of God saw]
the sons of God
Quote: בְנֵי־הָֽאֱלֹהִים֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
The meaning of Genesis 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 1:16 and Job 8:7) 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 3:19, 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 Exo 22:8, Psa 82:1, and 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 Genesis 4:19. Alternate translation: [so they married any of them that they wanted to marry]
Genesis 6:3
Then Yahweh said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוָ֗ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The implication is that Yahweh is speaking to himself. 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]
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 6:2, 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 Genesis 4:1, 4:17 and 4:25. 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 6:2. Alternate translation: [human women]
and they bore children for them
Quote: וְיָלְד֖וּ לָהֶ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [and those women had children fathered by the sons of God]
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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
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 [So 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 6:1. 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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. The implication is that Yahweh is speaking to himself. You could include this information if that would be helpful to your readers. 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]
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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo
It might seem that the expression birds of the sky contains extra information that would be unnatural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [and all the birds]
because I am sorry
Quote: כִּ֥י נִחַ֖מְתִּי (1)See how you translated “was sorry” or “regretted” in verse 6:6. 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 found favor means “pleased 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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
Some of Noah’s history has already been given in Genesis 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)Alternate translation: [a 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. Alternate translation: [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. 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. Alternate translation: [His contemporaries considered him to be a man of integrity]
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 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 destructive brutality] or [and all over the earth they were forcefully doing harm]
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 6:11. Alternate translation: [that everyone on the earth was very wicked] or [how dishonest 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]
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 mortals]
because the earth is filled {with} violence because of them
Quote: כִּֽי־מָלְאָ֥ה הָאָ֛רֶץ חָמָ֖ס מִפְּנֵיהֶ֑ם (1)See how you translated violence in verse 6:11. Alternate translation: [because they have filled the earth with their brutality] or [because all over the earth they are doing harmful things]
So behold, I
Quote: וְהִנְנִ֥י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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 a Latin word that many translations use for the name of the structure that Noah built. The word refers to a chest or 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. If Noah's boat is already well-known as the ark in your language area, you may choose to borrow the word “ark” as the name of this boat. Decide what is best for your translation. Alternate translation: [a very large houseboat]
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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
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 6:15. 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 an excessive water 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 6:13. Alternate translation: [in order to destroy]
all flesh
Quote: כָּל־בָּשָׂ֗ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
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 Genesis 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: [So, 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)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]
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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Here, living creature refers to any kind of animal that lives and breathes. Alternate translation: [Also, from every kind of thing that lives, 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 thing, that is, 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 [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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these clauses, since the second clause explains the purpose for the action that the previous clause describes. Alternate translation: [to keep them alive on the ark] 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: [all kinds 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 all the things 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 Genesis 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 Genesis 6:9 Alternate translation: [that you alone are upright] or [that you are the only one who is 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, after “because.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [among the people living today]
Genesis 7:2
From every clean animal
Quote: מִכֹּ֣ל ׀ הַבְּהֵמָ֣ה הַטְּהוֹרָ֗ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
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 Genesis 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]
Genesis 7:3
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 the sentence, as in the UST.
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/grammar-connect-logic-result
The word translated as because indicates that what follows is a reason for what came before. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is a reason for what came before. 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 so is that]
in seven more days
Quote: לְיָמִ֨ים ע֜וֹד שִׁבְעָ֗ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
The phrase seven more days could be translated as “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 40 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 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 Genesis 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 Genesis 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 just as]
Yahweh had commanded him
Quote: צִוָּ֖הוּ יְהוָֽה (1)See how you translated 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 Genesis 5 and in Genesis 6:3, and see the note about this at Genesis 5:35. Also see how you translated the idiom “son of … years” in Genesis 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 Genesis 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 7:11-13). See how you translated a similar list of people in Genesis 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 7:2 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 that 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 7:6.
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 gushed forth 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 7:4.
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 7:7. 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 7:9. 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 Genesis 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 7:15. 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 7:9. 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 7:17-20 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 7:12. Alternate translation: [for 40 days and 40 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 Genesis 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 7:15. 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 7:4. Alternate translation: [That is how Yahweh washed away] or [In that way, Yahweh blotted out]
every living thing
Quote: אֶֽת־כָּל־הַיְק֣וּם (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 7:4. 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 7:4. Alternate translation: [that was on the surface of the earth] or [that were on the land]
including mankind
Quote: מֵאָדָ֤ם (1)See how you translated mankind in verse 7:21. 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 7:4. 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 the people and the animals that were with him in the ark]
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 7:6. 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: הַמַּ֛יִם (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-unknown
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: אִתָּ֑ךְ (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)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 & אֶת־הָֽאֲדָמָה֙ (1)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: וּרְב֑וּ (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]
living thing of the earth
Quote: חַיַּ֥ת הָאָ֖רֶץ (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)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]
of all flesh
Quote: בְּכָל־בָּשָׂ֑ר (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)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)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 10:4
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)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
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 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]
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: בָּאָ֑רֶץ (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 & 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-idiom
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]
like the dust of the earth
Quote: כַּעֲפַ֣ר הָאָ֑רֶץ (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)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)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)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
if from a thread even to the strap of a sandal
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 even to the strap of a sandal]
if from a thread even to the strap of a sandal, or if I take from anything that {belongs} to you
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]
from a thread even to the strap of a sandal
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]
or if I take from anything
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]
that {belongs} to you
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]
so that you will not say
Quote: וְלֹ֣א תֹאמַ֔ר (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
I made Abram rich
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)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)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)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-idiom
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-idiom
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)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)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)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)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: לְמַעַן֩ אֲשֶׁ֨ר (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: חָלִ֨לָה לְּךָ֜ (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)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-activepassive
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)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)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 & 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: כַּאֲשֶׁ֣ר אָמָ֑ר (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-abstractnouns
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)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־ל֥וֹ אִמּ֛וֹ אִשָּׁ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Alternate translation: [his mother chose a wife for him] or [his mother arranged for him to marry a woman]
from the land of Egypt
Quote: מֵאֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)See how you translated the land of Egypt in Gen 13:10. Alternate translation: [who came from the country of Egypt] or [who was Egyptian]
Genesis 21:22
And it happened at that time
Quote: וַֽיְהִי֙ בָּעֵ֣ת הַהִ֔וא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
Consider what is the best way to introduce a new episode here in your language. Alternate translation: [Around that same time]
that Abimelech and Phicol, the commander of his army, spoke to Abraham, saying
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֲבִימֶ֗לֶךְ וּפִיכֹל֙ שַׂר־צְבָא֔וֹ אֶל־אַבְרָהָ֖ם לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
For some languages it is necessary in your language to make explicit that King Abimelech and Phicol came (or went) to Abraham before they spoke to him. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [King Abimelech went with his army commander Phicol to Abraham and said to him] or [King Abimelech and his army commander Phicol went to Abraham and said to him]
God {is} with you in all that you do
Quote: אֱלֹהִ֣ים עִמְּךָ֔ בְּכֹ֥ל אֲשֶׁר־אַתָּ֖ה עֹשֶֽׂה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated a similar phrase (“God was with …”) in verse 20. Alternate translation: [I have noticed that God is with you and blesses you in everything that you do]
Genesis 21:23
So now
Quote: וְעַתָּ֗ה (1)King Abimelech’s words to Abraham should sound polite and respectful in your translation, not rude or demanding. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 20:7. Alternate translation: [So now, please]
swear to me here by God
Quote: הִשָּׁ֨בְעָה לִּ֤י בֵֽאלֹהִים֙ הֵ֔נָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula
To “swear … by God” means that Abraham would be accountable to God, asking him to be his witness and to punish him if he breaks his oath/vow/promise to King Abimelech. It does not mean that Abraham used swear words or other foul language. If this custom is not familiar to many people in your language area, you could put this information in a footnote. See how you translated a similar sentence in Gen 14:22. Alternate translation: [solemnly promise me here with God as your witness]
if you will deal falsely with me
Quote: אִם־תִּשְׁקֹ֣ר לִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
According to custom, Abimelech is leaving out the part of the oath that tells what Yahweh will do to Abraham if he violates the 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: [that he will punish you severely if you deal falsely with me]
According to the kindness that I have done to you
Quote: כַּחֶ֜סֶד אֲשֶׁר־עָשִׂ֤יתִי עִמְּךָ֙ (1)Alternate translation: [Rather, just as I have treated you kindly] or [But just as I have been kind to you]
do to me and to the land
Quote: תַּעֲשֶׂ֣ה עִמָּדִ֔י וְעִם־הָאָ֖רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
In this context, the phrase the land refers to the people who live in the land. Alternate translation: [vow that you will also be kind to me and the people in this land]
which you are sojourning in
Quote: אֲשֶׁר־גַּ֥רְתָּה בָּֽהּ (1)Alternate translation: [where you are sojourning] or [where you are living as a foreigner]
Genesis 21:24
And Abraham said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Abraham said to Abimelech]
I swear
Quote: אָנֹכִ֖י אִשָּׁבֵֽעַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See how you translated swear in verse 23. Alternate translation: [I swear that I will do those things] or [I solemnly promise that I will do that]
Genesis 21:25
Then Abraham complained to
Quote: וְהוֹכִ֥חַ אַבְרָהָ֖ם (1)Alternate translation: [But then he confronted] or [Then he also protested to]
Abimelech
Quote: אֶת־אֲבִימֶ֑לֶךְ (1)For some languages, it is necessary to include the title “King” every time that Abimelech (or any other king) is referred to by name. For other languages, it is more natural to use the title only occasionally (especially when the focus is on him), or perhaps only the first time he is referred to in a section (so that his status is clear). Do what is best in your language throughout this section.
on account of
Quote: עַל־אֹדוֹת֙ (1)Alternate translation: [regarding]
the well of water
Quote: בְּאֵ֣ר הַמַּ֔יִם (1)See how you translated well of water in verse 19. Alternate translation: [a well of water] or [the water well] or [a well]
Genesis 21:26
Then Abimelech said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֲבִימֶ֔לֶךְ (1)Alternate translation: [But Abimelech responded to him] or [When King Abimelech heard that, he said]
who has done this thing
Quote: מִ֥י עָשָׂ֖ה אֶת־הַדָּבָ֣ר הַזֶּ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [who took your well from you] or [who took control of your well]
And also
Quote: וְגַם (1)Here Abimelech is introducing an additional explanation of his innocence in this matter. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language. Alternate translation: [Furthermore]
you did not tell me
Quote: אַתָּ֞ה לֹא־הִגַּ֣דְתָּ לִּ֗י (1)Alternate translation: [you did not inform me about that before] or [you never told me about this]
and also
Quote: וְגַ֧ם (1)Here Abimelech adds a third reason why he is innocent in this matter. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language. Alternate translation: [furthermore] or [and finally]
I have not heard about it until today
Quote: אָנֹכִ֛י לֹ֥א שָׁמַ֖עְתִּי בִּלְתִּ֥י הַיּֽוֹם (1)Alternate translation: [I knew nothing about it until today] or [today is the first time that I have heard about it]
Genesis 21:27
Then Abraham took sheep and cattle, and he gave them to Abimelech
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֤ח אַבְרָהָם֙ צֹ֣אן וּבָקָ֔ר וַיִּתֵּ֖ן לַאֲבִימֶ֑לֶךְ (1)See how you translated sheep and cattle in Gen 20:14. Alternate translation: [Then Abraham brought some of his sheep and cattle, and gave them to Abimelech]
and the two of them cut a covenant
Quote: וַיִּכְרְת֥וּ שְׁנֵיהֶ֖ם בְּרִֽית (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated this phrase in Gen 15:18. Alternate translation: [and he and Abimelech made a peace agreement with one another]
Genesis 21:28
Then Abraham set apart
Quote: וַיַּצֵּ֣ב אַבְרָהָ֗ם (1)Alternate translation: [Abraham also isolated]
seven ewe lambs of the flock by themselves
Quote: אֶת־שֶׁ֛בַע כִּבְשֹׂ֥ת הַצֹּ֖אן לְבַדְּהֶֽן (1)Alternate translation: [seven female lambs from the rest of the sheep] or [seven young female sheep from the rest of the sheep]
Genesis 21:29
So Abimelech said to Abraham
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר אֲבִימֶ֖לֶךְ אֶל־אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [So Abimelech asked Abraham]
What {are} they, these seven ewe lambs that you have set apart by themselves
Quote: מָ֣ה הֵ֗נָּה שֶׁ֤בַע כְּבָשֹׂת֙ הָאֵ֔לֶּה אֲשֶׁ֥ר הִצַּ֖בְתָּ לְבַדָּֽנָה (1)See how you translated set apart in verse 28. Alternate translation: [What is the reason that you set apart those seven lambs?] or [Why did you put those seven lambs off by themselves?] or [Why did you isolate those seven lambs from the rest of the sheep?]
Genesis 21:30
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Alternate translation: [Abraham answered him]
Because you must take the seven ewe lambs
Quote: כִּ֚י אֶת־שֶׁ֣בַע כְּבָשֹׂ֔ת תִּקַּ֖ח (1)Alternate translation: [Those seven lambs are for you to accept] or [Because I want you to take them]
so that it can be a witness for me
Quote: בַּעֲבוּר֙ תִּֽהְיֶה־לִּ֣י לְעֵדָ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [to verify to everyone]
that I dug this well
Quote: כִּ֥י חָפַ֖רְתִּי אֶת־הַבְּאֵ֥ר הַזֹּֽאת (1)Alternate translation: [that I dug this well and so it is mine] or [that I am the one who dug this well and it belongs to me]
Genesis 21:31
For that {reason
Quote: עַל־כֵּ֗ן (1)Alternate translation: [That is why] or [So]
he called that place
Quote: קָרָ֛א לַמָּק֥וֹם הַה֖וּא (1)The phrase he called often means that people in general gave a city or other place a certain name. Here it could be that Abraham named the place Beersheba, and then later other people called it the same name, and it became well known by that name. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 19:22. Alternate translation: [Abraham called that place] or [they call that place] or [that place was called]
Beersheba
Quote: בְּאֵ֣ר שָׁ֑בַע (1)Be consistent here with how you spelled Beersheba in verse 14. Also, if you include the meaning of the name in your translation or in a footnote, make sure that the way you translate “vow” or oath here matches the way you translate oath later in this verse. Alternate translation: [Well of the Oath]
because there
Quote: כִּ֛י שָׁ֥ם (1)Alternate translation: [because it was there that] or [because that is where]
the two of them
Quote: שְׁנֵיהֶֽם (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 27. Alternate translation: [he and Abimelech both]
swore an oath
Quote: נִשְׁבְּע֖וּ (1)See how you translated “swear” in verses 23-24. Alternate translation: [made a vow to each other] or [solemnly promised each other to live in peace]
Genesis 21:32
So they cut the covenant at Beersheba
Quote: וַיִּכְרְת֥וּ בְרִ֖ית בִּבְאֵ֣ר שָׁ֑בַע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Consider whether it is better in your language to use a pronoun or nouns here to refer to these men. Some languages have a special dual pronoun for they that fits well here. Also, see how you translated the idiom “cut … covenant” in verse 27. Alternate translation: [After Abraham and King Abimelech established their peace agreement at Beersheba]
Then Abimelech and Phicol, the commander of his army, got up
Quote: וַיָּ֣קָם אֲבִימֶ֗לֶךְ וּפִיכֹל֙ שַׂר־צְבָא֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated got up in verse 22. Alternate translation: [Abimelech and Phicol, his army commander left from there] or [Abimelech and his army commander Phicol left Abraham]
to the land of the Philistines
Quote: אֶל־אֶ֥רֶץ פְּלִשְׁתִּֽים (1)Abimelech and Phicol probably returned to their homes in the city of Gerar (Gen 20:2), which at that time was the Philistines’ capital city, where Abimelech ruled from. The place in the desert where Abimelech and Abraham made their covenant (Beersheba) was probably located on the border of the Philistines’ territory. Alternate translation: [to the land where the Philistines lived]
Genesis 21:33
a tamarisk tree
Quote: אֶ֖שֶׁל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
The tamarisk tree (also known as salt-cedar) is a small-leaved evergreen tree that grows up to 30 feet (9 meters) high and provides shade. It grows well in desert areas that have salty soil. You could put some of that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: [a salt-cedar tree] or [an evergreen tree named salt-cedar]
and there he called on the name of Yahweh
Quote: וַיִּ֨קְרָא־שָׁ֔ם בְּשֵׁ֥ם יְהוָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated this clause in Gen 12:8 and a similar clause in 13:4. Alternate translation: [and he praised Yahweh by name there] or [and he addressed Yahweh there by his name as he praised him] or [and there he praised Yahweh]
the God of eternity
Quote: אֵ֥ל עוֹלָֽם (1)This phrase means that God has no beginning and no end. In other words, he has always existed and he will continue to exist forever. Alternate translation: [who is the Eternal God] or [who is the God who has always existed]
Genesis 21:34
Then Abraham sojourned
Quote: וַיָּ֧גָר אַבְרָהָ֛ם (1)See how you translated “sojourning” in verse 23. Alternate translation: [After that, he stayed there]
in the land of the Philistines
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ פְּלִשְׁתִּ֖ים (1)Alternate translation: [in the territory that was occupied by the Philistines] or [in the territory where the Philistines lived]
many days
Quote: יָמִ֥ים רַבִּֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Abraham lived in the Philistines’ territory for around 25 years, so keep that in mind as you translate this phrase. For some languages it is clearer or more natural to put this time phrase earlier in this sentence and say, “… lived there for many years in the land …” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 22
Genesis 22:1
Then it happened after those things
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י אַחַר֙ הַדְּבָרִ֣ים הָאֵ֔לֶּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
This is the beginning of a new episode that takes place around twelve years after Abraham and King Abimelech made their treaty (chapter 21). See how you translated “after those events” in Gen 15:1; it may be necessary to translate this phrase in a slightly different way here because of the different context. Alternate translation: [Sometime after those things happened] or [Several years later]
that God tested Abraham
Quote: וְהָ֣אֱלֹהִ֔ים נִסָּ֖ה אֶת־אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)Make sure your translation of this clause does not sound like the test was over. Rather it introduces what the following episode is about. Alternate translation: [God wanted to test Abraham]
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Make sure it is clear in your translation who is speaking here. Alternate translation: [Abraham replied to him]
Behold me
Quote: הִנֵּֽנִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Abraham’s reply is respectful and means that he is listening and ready to do what God wants him to do. Consider what is the best way to say this phrase in your language. Alternate translation: [Yes, Master?] or [What is it, Lord]
Genesis 22:2
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֡אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Translate this quote margin in a way that fits this context well. Alternate translation: [Then God said to him] or [Then God told him]
Please take your son
Quote: קַח־נָ֠א אֶת־בִּנְךָ֨ (1)See how you translated “please” when God is talking to a person in Gen 13:14; 15:5. Your translation of take here should not imply the use of force. See how you translated “took” in Gen 11:31 and 12:5.
your only {son} whom you love, Isaac
Quote: אֶת־יְחִֽידְךָ֤ אֲשֶׁר־אָהַ֨בְתָּ֙ אֶת־יִצְחָ֔ק (1)This phrase repeats part of the previous phrase in order to emphasize it. Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [yes your only son Isaac whom you love]
and go yourself
Quote: וְלֶךְ־לְךָ֔ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
It is understood that he was to take Isaac with him. If this is not clear in your language, you could make that information explicit. Alternate translation: [and go with him]
to the land of Moriah
Quote: אֶל־אֶ֖רֶץ הַמֹּרִיָּ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Alternate translation: [to the region called Moriah] or [to the Moriah Region]
and sacrifice him there as a burnt offering
Quote: וְהַעֲלֵ֤הוּ שָׁם֙ לְעֹלָ֔ה (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 8:20. Alternate translation: [and offer him there to me as a burnt offering] or [There you are to burn him up on an altar as a offering to me]
on one of the mountains
Quote: עַ֚ל אַחַ֣ד הֶֽהָרִ֔ים (1)Alternate translation: [on top of one of the mountains] or [on top of a mountain]
that I will tell to you
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֖ר אֹמַ֥ר אֵלֶֽיךָ (1)Alternate translation: [that I will point out to you]
Genesis 22:3
So Abraham got up early in the morning
Quote: וַיַּשְׁכֵּ֨ם אַבְרָהָ֜ם בַּבֹּ֗קֶר (1)See how you translated got up early in the morning in Gen 20:8. Alternate translation: [So the next morning, Abraham got up early] or [Early the next morning Abraham got up]
and saddled his donkey
Quote: וַֽיַּחֲבֹשׁ֙ אֶת־חֲמֹר֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
A donkey is like a small horse that people used to carry loads (as here). Alternate translation: [and got his donkey ready for the trip]
Then he took two of his young men with him and Isaac his son
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֞ח אֶת־שְׁנֵ֤י נְעָרָיו֙ אִתּ֔וֹ וְאֵ֖ת יִצְחָ֣ק בְּנ֑וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [He took two of his servants with him and his son Isaac] or [Then he took his son Isaac and two of his servants]
and he cut wood
Quote: וַיְבַקַּע֙ עֲצֵ֣י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The reason Abraham is the only one mentioned in this clause and in the next sentence is that he is in focus. He did not travel alone and he probably did not chop the wood alone. Decide whether or not you need to make that explicit in your translation. Alternate translation: [and he split some firewood with them] or [and they chopped some firewood together]
for the burnt offering
Quote: עֹלָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
Some languages must translate this noun phrase using a verb. Do what is natural in your language. See what you did in verse 2. Alternate translation: [to use for the burnt offering and loaded it on the donkey] or [that they would use to burn the offering and loaded it on the donkey]
Then he got up and left for the place
Quote: וַיָּ֣קָם וַיֵּ֔לֶךְ אֶל־הַמָּק֖וֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
In this context, got up is used as an idiom that means Abraham started an activity. It does not mean that he was sitting down and literally stood up. Alternate translation: [Then he set out with them for the place] or [Then they started traveling to the mountain]
that God had told to him
Quote: אֲשֶׁר־אָֽמַר־ל֥וֹ הָאֱלֹהִֽים (1)Alternate translation: [that God had told him to go to]
Genesis 22:4
On the third day
Quote: בַּיּ֣וֹם הַשְּׁלִישִׁ֗י (1)Alternate translation: [After walking for three days]
Abraham lifted his eyes
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֨א אַבְרָהָ֧ם אֶת־עֵינָ֛יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom lifted his eyes in Gen 18:2. It may be necessary to translate it differently here, because of the different context. Alternate translation: [he looked up]
and he saw the place from a distance
Quote: וַיַּ֥רְא אֶת־הַמָּק֖וֹם מֵרָחֹֽק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Consider where it is best in your language to put the location phrase from a distance or “in the distance.” Alternate translation: [and he could see the place where they were headed in the distance] or [and in the distance he could see the place where they were going]
Genesis 22:5
Then Abraham said to his young men
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר אַבְרָהָ֜ם אֶל־נְעָרָ֗יו (1)Be consistent here with how you translated young men in verse 3. Alternate translation: [Then Abraham told his servants]
Stay here by yourselves with the donkey
Quote: שְׁבוּ־לָכֶ֥ם פֹּה֙ עִֽם־הַחֲמ֔וֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual
Some languages have special dual pronouns (that refer to only two people) that can be used in verse 5 to refer to Abraham’s two servants.
and I and the boy will go
Quote: וַאֲנִ֣י וְהַנַּ֔עַר נֵלְכָ֖ה (1)See how you translated the boy in Gen 21:12, 17-20. We do not know for sure how old Isaac was at this time, but estimates range between 18 and 37 years old. Make sure your translation of boy allows for that fact. Alternate translation: [while the young man and I go]
over there
Quote: עַד־כֹּ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [over there to that mountain]
and bow down
Quote: וְנִֽשְׁתַּחֲוֶ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
In that culture, people had the custom of bowing down to worship God. Make sure it is clear in your translation why Abraham and Isaac would bow down. Alternate translation: [and bow down to worship God]
Then we will come back to you
Quote: וְנָשׁ֥וּבָה אֲלֵיכֶֽם (1)Alternate translation: [Then we will return to you here] or [After that, we will come back here to you]
Genesis 22:6
Then Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֨ח אַבְרָהָ֜ם אֶת־עֲצֵ֣י הָעֹלָ֗ה (1)See how you translated “firewood” and burnt offering in verse 3. Alternate translation: [Then he took the firewood for the burnt offering off the donkey] or [Then he took the firewood that they would use to burn the sacrifice]
and put {it} on Isaac his son
Quote: וַיָּ֨שֶׂם֙ עַל־יִצְחָ֣ק בְּנ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The Hebrew text does not specify exactly where Abraham put the wood on Isaac. Only specify that in a translation if it is necessary in your language. Alternate translation: [and gave it to his son Isaac to carry]
and he took in his hand{s
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֣ח בְּיָד֔וֹ (1)Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language. Alternate translation: [and he himself carried]
the fire {pot
Quote: אֶת־הָאֵ֖שׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The fire can either refer to hot coals (in a pot) or to a flint stone and wood chips that they would use to start the fire on the altar. Make sure that your translation of this phrase does not mean that Abraham was holding fire or hot coals in his bare hands. Alternate translation: [a fire pot with hot embers in it] or [the other things to make a fire]
and the knife
Quote: וְאֶת־הַֽמַּאֲכֶ֑לֶת (1)Alternate translation: [and a sacrifice knife]
Then the two of them went on together
Quote: וַיֵּלְכ֥וּ שְׁנֵיהֶ֖ם יַחְדָּֽו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual
Some languages have a dual pronoun that could be used here. Alternate translation: [Then Abraham and Isaac walked on together] or [Then they continued walking toward the mountain]
Genesis 22:7
and Isaac spoke to Abraham his father and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יִצְחָ֜ק אֶל־אַבְרָהָ֤ם אָבִיו֙ וַיֹּ֣אמֶר (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: [and as they went Isaac said to his father Abraham]
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Consider what is the best way to refer to Abraham at this point in the paragraph in your language. Alternate translation: [Abraham said to him]
Behold me, my son
Quote: הִנֶּ֣נִּֽי בְנִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom Behold me in verse 1. Alternate translation: [What is it, my son?]
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Make sure that the way you translate this quote margin fits well with what Isaac says next.
Behold
Quote: הִנֵּ֤ה (1)Alternate translation: [Here is]
the fire and the wood
Quote: הָאֵשׁ֙ וְהָ֣עֵצִ֔ים (1)Alternate translation: [the fire pot and the firewood] or [what we need to make a fire to burn the sacrifice]
but where {is} the lamb
Quote: וְאַיֵּ֥ה הַשֶּׂ֖ה (1)Alternate translation: [but where is the sheep] or [but why is there no lamb]
for the burnt offering
Quote: לְעֹלָֽה (1)Alternate translation: [for us to use as the burnt offering?] or [for us to burn as our sacrifice to God?] or [that we will burn as our offering to God?]
Genesis 22:8
And Abraham said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then Abraham said to him]
God will see for himself
Quote: אֱלֹהִ֞ים יִרְאֶה־לּ֥וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom that means God will provide the lamb. Make sure this meaning is clear in your translation. Alternate translation: [God himself will see to it that there is]
the lamb for the burnt offering
Quote: הַשֶּׂ֛ה לְעֹלָ֖ה (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 7. Alternate translation: [a lamb for the burnt offering] or [a lamb for us to burn as a offering to him]
my son
Quote: בְּנִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Consider whether it is more natural in your language to put this address first in this quote and say, “My son, God himself will …”
Then the two of them went on
Quote: וַיֵּלְכ֥וּ שְׁנֵיהֶ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual
See how you translated the two of them in verse 6. Alternate translation: [So the two of them walked on together] or [So they continued walking together toward the mountain]
Genesis 22:9
Then they came to
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֗אוּ אֶֽל (1)Alternate translation: [After they got to] or [After they arrived at] or [After they reached]
the place that God had told to him
Quote: הַמָּקוֹם֮ אֲשֶׁ֣ר אָֽמַר־ל֣וֹ הָאֱלֹהִים֒ (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 3. Alternate translation: [the mountain that God had told him to go to]
and there Abraham built the altar
Quote: וַיִּ֨בֶן שָׁ֤ם אַבְרָהָם֙ אֶת־הַמִּזְבֵּ֔חַ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated altar in Gen 13:4, 18. Alternate translation: [Abraham made a stone altar there]
and arranged the wood
Quote: וַֽיַּעֲרֹ֖ךְ אֶת־הָעֵצִ֑ים (1)Abraham arranged the wood on top of the altar so that it would burn well. Make sure your translation of this phrase does not sound like he lit the fire yet; he did not do that until verse 13 when he sacrificed the ram. Alternate translation: [and laid the wood on top of it]
and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood
Quote: וַיָּ֤שֶׂם אֹתוֹ֙ עַל־הַמִּזְבֵּ֔חַ מִמַּ֖עַל לָעֵצִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Consider which order of these phrases is the clearest and most natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and put him on top of the wood that was on the altar]
Genesis 22:10
Then Abraham reached out his hand and took the knife
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלַ֤ח אַבְרָהָם֙ אֶת־יָד֔וֹ וַיִּקַּ֖ח אֶת־הַֽמַּאֲכֶ֑לֶת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Consider whether it is better in your language to use a noun or a pronoun to refer to Abraham here. See how you translated knife in verse 6. Alternate translation: [Then he took the knife in his hand]
to kill his son
Quote: לִשְׁחֹ֖ט אֶת־בְּנֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
In the process of sacrificing, the first step was to kill the sacrifice and then burn up the body on the altar. If necessary, you could make that information explicit in your translation or in a footnote. Alternate translation: [in order to kill his son before sacrificing his body on the altar]
Genesis 22:11
But an angel of Yahweh called
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֨א & מַלְאַ֤ךְ יְהוָה֙ (1)Make sure in your translation that it does not sound like Abraham killed Isaac. See how you translated this phrase in Gen 21:17. Alternate translation: [But before Abraham could use the knife, an angel from Yahweh called]
to him from heaven and said, “Abraham! Abraham
Quote: אֵלָ֜יו & מִן־הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם וַיֹּ֖אמֶר אַבְרָהָ֣ם ׀ אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)The angel repeats Abraham’s name to communicate urgency and that he wants him to stop and listen. Make sure your translation does not sound like the angel was angry or criticizing Abraham.
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (2)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Abraham replied to the angel]
Behold me
Quote: הִנֵּֽנִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated Behold me in verse 1. Alternate translation: [What is it, Master?] or [Yes, Master?]
Genesis 22:12
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Make sure it is clear in your translation that the angel is speaking here, not Abraham. Alternate translation: [Then the angel said]
Do not reach out your hand against
Quote: אַל־תִּשְׁלַ֤ח יָֽדְךָ֙ אֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Consider whether your language has an idiom that has the same meaning as the Hebrew idiom here. Alternate translation: [Do not lay your hands on] or [Do not kill]
the boy
Quote: הַנַּ֔עַר (1)See how you translated this in verse 5. Alternate translation: [the young man]
And {do} not do anything to him
Quote: וְאַל־תַּ֥עַשׂ ל֖וֹ מְא֑וּמָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
The angel repeats the previous command (using different words) in order to emphasize that Abraham should not hurt Isaac. Most languages can do something similar. Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [Do not do anything to harm him] or [You must not do anything to harm him] or [You must not harm him in any way]
because now I know
Quote: כִּ֣י ׀ עַתָּ֣ה יָדַ֗עְתִּי (1)Yahweh is the one talking here, represented by the angel who speaks on his behalf, or perhaps God is appearing to Abraham as an angel. Alternate translation: [Now I see] or [You have shown me]
that you fear God
Quote: כִּֽי־יְרֵ֤א אֱלֹהִים֙ אַ֔תָּה (1)See how you translated fear in Gen 20:11. Alternate translation: [that you fear me] or [that you deeply respect me]
since you have not withheld your son, your only {son}, from me
Quote: וְלֹ֥א חָשַׂ֛כְתָּ אֶת־בִּנְךָ֥ אֶת־יְחִידְךָ֖ מִמֶּֽנִּי (1)Alternate translation: [because you obeyed me and did not hold back your son from me, yes your only son] or [because you obeyed me and did not refuse to sacrifice your son to me, even though he is your only son]
Genesis 22:13
Then Abraham lifted his eyes and looked
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֨א אַבְרָהָ֜ם אֶת־עֵינָ֗יו וַיַּרְא֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated lifted his eyes and looked in Gen 18:2.
and behold, a ram {was} behind {him
Quote: וְהִנֵּה־אַ֔יִל אַחַ֕ר (1)A ram is an adult male sheep or goat. See how you translated this term in Gen 15:9. Alternate translation: [and suddenly he saw a ram behind him]
caught in the thicket by its horns
Quote: נֶאֱחַ֥ז בַּסְּבַ֖ךְ בְּקַרְנָ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
Alternate translation: [that had caught its horns in the thicket] or [that had its horns caught in a bush]
So Abraham went and took the ram
Quote: וַיֵּ֤לֶךְ אַבְרָהָם֙ וַיִּקַּ֣ח אֶת־הָאַ֔יִל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
For some languages it may be necessary to explicitly state that Abraham untied Isaac and took him off the altar before he sacrificed the ram. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [So after releasing Isaac, he took the ram from the thicket] or [So he untied Isaac, went over to the ram and untangled it]
and sacrificed it as a burnt offering
Quote: וַיַּעֲלֵ֥הוּ לְעֹלָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Animals that were sacrificed to God as burnt offerings were killed first before they were burned on an altar. Make sure your translation does not sound like the ram was burned alive. If that is not clear, you could make some of the above implied information explicit in your translation. Alternate translation: [Then he killed the ram and burned it on the altar as a offering to God]
instead of his son
Quote: תַּ֥חַת בְּנֽוֹ (1)Alternate translation: [as a substitute for his son]
Genesis 22:14
So Abraham called the name of that place
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֧א אַבְרָהָ֛ם שֵֽׁם־הַמָּק֥וֹם הַה֖וּא (1)Make sure it is clear that what Yahweh did in verse 13 is the reason that Abraham gave that place the name Yahweh-Yireh in verse 14. Alternate translation: [That is why Abraham called that place] or [Because God provided the ram, Abraham called that place]
Yahweh-Yireh
Quote: יְהוָ֣ה ׀ יִרְאֶ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
If you include the meaning of this name in your translation text or in a footnote, be consistent with how you translate the verb “see/provide” in verse 8 (and later in verse 14), which the name is based on.
as it is said {to} this day
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֙ יֵאָמֵ֣ר הַיּ֔וֹם (1)This refers to the time period when Moses was writing this book. If that is not clear, you could put that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: [Even now people still say]
it will be seen
Quote: יֵרָאֶֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated this idiom in verse 8. Alternate translation: [it will be provided by him] or [he will see to it that we have what we need] or [he will provide what we need]
Genesis 22:15
Then the angel of Yahweh called to Abraham a second {time} from heaven
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֛א מַלְאַ֥ךְ יְהוָ֖ה אֶל־אַבְרָהָ֑ם שֵׁנִ֖ית מִן־הַשָּׁמָֽיִם (1)See how you translated “called … from heaven” in verse 11, and how you translated angel in verses 11-12.
Genesis 22:16
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
I swear by myself, a declaration of Yahweh
Quote: בִּ֥י נִשְׁבַּ֖עְתִּי נְאֻם־יְהוָ֑ה (1)See how you translated swear in Gen 21:23-24.
that it is because you have done this thing
Quote: כִּ֗י יַ֚עַן אֲשֶׁ֤ר עָשִׂ֨יתָ֙ אֶת־הַדָּבָ֣ר הַזֶּ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [that since you have done what I said] or [that since you obeyed me]
and have not withheld your son
Quote: וְלֹ֥א חָשַׂ֖כְתָּ אֶת־בִּנְךָ֥ (1)See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 12. Alternate translation: [and did not refuse to sacrifice your son to me] or [were willing to give your son to me]
your only {son
Quote: אֶת־יְחִידֶֽךָ (1)See how you translated this in verse 12. Alternate translation: [even though he is your only son]
Genesis 22:17
that I will greatly bless you
Quote: כִּֽי־בָרֵ֣ךְ אֲבָרֶכְךָ֗ (1)Alternate translation: [I will surely bless you] or [I will surely cause you to prosper greatly]
and I will greatly multiply your offspring
Quote: וְהַרְבָּ֨ה אַרְבֶּ֤ה אֶֽת־זַרְעֲךָ֙ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [I will greatly increase the number of your descendants so that they will be] or [In fact, I will give you so many offspring that they will be]
as the stars of the heavens
Quote: כְּכוֹכְבֵ֣י הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
Make sure it is clear in your translation that God is comparing the number of stars and grains of sand to the number of descendants Abraham will have. There will be so many that no one can count them all (as in Gen 13:16 and 15:6). Alternate translation: [as many as the stars in the sky]
and as the sand that {is} on the shore of the sea
Quote: וְכַח֕וֹל אֲשֶׁ֖ר עַל־שְׂפַ֣ת הַיָּ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [and as many as the grains of sand on the seashore]
and your offspring will possess the gate{s} of their enemies
Quote: וְיִרַ֣שׁ זַרְעֲךָ֔ אֵ֖ת שַׁ֥עַר אֹיְבָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Cities often had high stone walls surrounding them to protect the people inside. The gates in the walls were the only way to go in or out of a city. The idiom “possess the gates of … enemies” refers to taking control of the cities and conquering the people living there. Consider what is the best way to translate this idiom in your language. Alternate translation: [and they will conquer the cities of all their enemies] or [They will conquer all their enemies and rule over them] or [Your offspring will …]
Genesis 22:18
in your offspring
Quote: בְזַרְעֲךָ֔ (1)See how you translated offspring in verse 17. Alternate translation: [In your offspring] or [Because of your offspring] or [By means of your offspring]
And … all the nations of the earth will be blessed
Quote: וְהִתְבָּרֲכ֣וּ & כֹּ֖ל גּוֹיֵ֣י הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
See how you translated a similar sentence (“in/through … all the … of/on the earth will be blessed”) in Gen 12:3 and 18:18. Alternate translation: [all the peoples of the earth will be blessed by me] or [I will bless all the ethnic groups that live on the earth]
because you listened to my voice
Quote: עֵ֕קֶב אֲשֶׁ֥ר שָׁמַ֖עְתָּ בְּקֹלִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Make sure your translation of my voice refers to what God commanded Abraham. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [because you heeded my command]
Genesis 22:19
Then Abraham returned
Quote: וַיָּ֤שָׁב אַבְרָהָם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Make sure your translation does not sound like Abraham returned alone (without Isaac). Alternate translation: [Afterwards Abraham and Isaac went back]
to his young men
Quote: אֶל־נְעָרָ֔יו (1)Be consistent here with how you translated young men in verses 3 and 5. Alternate translation: [to the two servants]
and they got up and went together to Beersheba
Quote: וַיָּקֻ֛מוּ וַיֵּלְכ֥וּ יַחְדָּ֖ו אֶל־בְּאֵ֣ר שָׁ֑בַע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
At that time, Abraham and his family were living in Beersheba (Gen 21:31-34). So in your translation, it should not sound like Beersheba was a new destination; they were returning home. Alternate translation: [Then they returned home together to the city of Beersheba]
And Abraham stayed at Beersheba
Quote: וַיֵּ֥שֶׁב אַבְרָהָ֖ם בִּבְאֵ֥ר שָֽׁבַע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Make sure your translation does not sound like Abraham was living alone in Beersheba apart from his family. Alternate translation: [and Abraham continued to live there with his family] or [where Abraham and his family continued to live]
Genesis 22:20
Then it happened after those things
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י אַחֲרֵי֙ הַדְּבָרִ֣ים הָאֵ֔לֶּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
This phrase introduces a new topic. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language. Alternate translation: [Sometime after that]
that it was told to Abraham, saying
Quote: וַיֻּגַּ֥ד לְאַבְרָהָ֖ם לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language.
Behold
Quote: הִ֠נֵּה (1)Alternate translation: [Listen] or [I have some news for you:]
Milcah, she too, has born sons for Nahor your brother
Quote: יָלְדָ֨ה מִלְכָּ֥ה גַם־הִ֛וא בָּנִ֖ים לְנָח֥וֹר אָחִֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
For some languages it may be better to use an indirect quote in this verse and say, “Sometime later Abraham found out that his brother Nahor and Nahor’s wife Milcah had some sons,” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Milcah the wife of your brother Nahor has born some sons for him] or [your brother Nahor and his wife Milcah also have some sons]
Genesis 22:21
Uz his firstborn and Buz his brother and Kemuel
Quote: אֶת־ע֥וּץ בְּכֹר֖וֹ וְאֶת־בּ֣וּז אָחִ֑יו וְאֶת־קְמוּאֵ֖ל (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [including their oldest son Uz, then Buz and Kemuel] or [The first one is Uz, the second is Buz, and the third is Kemuel]
the father of Aram
Quote: אֲבִ֥י אֲרָֽם (1)Alternate translation: [who fathered Aram] or [whose son is Aram]
Genesis 22:22
and
Quote: וְאֶת (1)Make sure it is clear in your translation that the people listed in verse 22 were sons of Nahor and Milcah, not sons of Kemuel (verse 21). Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Kesed and Hazo and Pildash and Jidlaph and Bethuel
Quote: כֶּ֣שֶׂד וְאֶת־חֲז֔וֹ וְאֶת־פִּלְדָּ֖שׁ וְאֶת־יִדְלָ֑ף וְאֵ֖ת בְּתוּאֵֽל (1)Consider whether it is best in your language to use a conjunction between each name in this list (like Hebrew does), or only before the last name in the list. See what you did for a similar list of names in Gen 10:26-29.
Genesis 22:23
And Bethuel fathered Rebekah
Quote: וּבְתוּאֵ֖ל יָלַ֣ד אֶת־רִבְקָ֑ה (1)Some translations put this sentence in parentheses to show that it is a separate comment by the author and not part of the previous quote. Do what is best in your language. Also, see how you translated fathered in Gen 11:27. Alternate translation: [Bethuel was the father of Rebekah]
Genesis 22:24
And his concubine, and her name {was} Reumah, and she also bore
Quote: וּפִֽילַגְשׁ֖וֹ וּשְׁמָ֣הּ רְאוּמָ֑ה וַתֵּ֤לֶד גַּם־הִוא֙ (1)Alternate translation: [In addition to that, Nahor and his concubine Reumah also had some sons, including]
Tebah and Gaham and Tahash and Maacah
Quote: אֶת־טֶ֣בַח וְאֶת־גַּ֔חַם וְאֶת־תַּ֖חַשׁ וְאֶֽת־מַעֲכָֽה (1)See how you connected the list of names in verse 22.
Genesis 23
Genesis 23:1
Now the life of Sarah was 127 years
Quote: וַיִּהְיוּ֙ חַיֵּ֣י שָׂרָ֔ה מֵאָ֥ה שָׁנָ֛ה וְעֶשְׂרִ֥ים שָׁנָ֖ה וְשֶׁ֣בַע שָׁנִ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [Sarah lived 127 years]
the years of the life of Sarah
Quote: שְׁנֵ֖י חַיֵּ֥י שָׂרָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Consider whether it is better in your language to combine the last part of verse 1 with the beginning of verse 2 and say, “That is how old she was when she died in Kiriath Arba …” Alternate translation: [Yes, that is how long she lived] or [That is how old she lived to be]
Genesis 23:2
Then Sarah died
Quote: וַתָּ֣מָת שָׂרָ֗ה (1)Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the previous sentence. Alternate translation: [Then she died] or [before she died]
in Kiriath Arba
Quote: בְּקִרְיַ֥ת אַרְבַּ֛ע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
You can spell this name as two words, as in the Hebrew text, or combine them into one word with or without a hyphen. Be consistent with how you spell this name throughout the Bible. Alternate translation: [in the city of Kiriath-arba]
which {is} Hebron
Quote: הִ֥וא חֶבְר֖וֹן (1)The city of Kiriath Arba was later named Hebron (Joshua 14:15). Alternate translation: [which is also named Hebron] or [also known as Hebron] or [that is, Hebron]
in the land of Canaan
Quote: בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנָ֑עַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to put a general location before a specific location and say, “in the land of Canaan, in the city of Kiriath Arba, which is Hebron.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [in the land called Canaan]
And Abraham went
Quote: וַיָּבֹא֙ אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [Then Abraham came to her] or [Abraham came to her side]
to mourn for Sarah and to weep for her
Quote: לִסְפֹּ֥ד לְשָׂרָ֖ה וְלִבְכֹּתָֽהּ (1)For some languages it is necessary to translate this sentence using a verb form that expresses completion or past tense so that it is clear that Abraham actually did this. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [to mourn and cry for her]
Genesis 23:3
Then Abraham got up from beside
Quote: וַיָּ֨קָם֙ אַבְרָהָ֔ם מֵעַ֖ל פְּנֵ֣י (1)Alternate translation: [Later he got up from mourning beside] or [After a while, Abraham left]
his dead one
Quote: מֵת֑וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [her body]
and he spoke to the sons of Heth, saying
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר אֶל־בְּנֵי־חֵ֖ת לֵאמֹֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The phrase sons of Heth refers to the descendants of Canaan’s son Heth (Genesis 10:15; 15:20) who are also known as the Hittites. Consider what is the best way to refer to them here in your language. Also, for some languages it is necessary to make it explicit here in verse 3 that Abraham went to the city gates to meet with the Hittites, rather than wait until verse 10 for that information. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [and he went to the elders of the Hittites at the city gates and said to them]
Genesis 23:4
I {am
Quote: אָנֹכִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The leaders of the city already knew that Abraham was a foreigner, so make sure your translation of this sentence does not sound like he is telling them something that they did not know. Alternate translation: [I am coming to you as] or [Since I am]
a foreigner and a sojourner
Quote: גֵּר־וְתוֹשָׁ֥ב (1)See how you translated foreigner in Gen 15:13. Alternate translation: [a outsider who has settled] or [a outsider who is living]
among you
Quote: עִמָּכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
It is implied by Abraham and understood by the Hittites that Abraham’s status as a foreigner means he owns no property. Consider whether or not to make this implied information explicit in your translation. Alternate translation: [among you and I have no land of my own] or [in your land and I do not own any property here]
Give to me
Quote: תְּנ֨וּ לִ֤י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
Make sure that the way you translate this phrase sounds polite, not rude or demanding. Alternate translation: [Please give me] or [Please let me buy]
property for a burial place among you
Quote: אֲחֻזַּת־קֶ֨בֶר֙ עִמָּכֶ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [some land among you] or [some of your property]
so that I can bury my dead from before me
Quote: וְאֶקְבְּרָ֥ה מֵתִ֖י מִלְּפָנָֽי (1)Translate this clause in a way that shows respect for the person who has died. Alternate translation: [so I have a place to take my dead wife and bury her] or [where I can bury the body of my wife who has died] or [so that I can give my deceased wife a proper burial]
Genesis 23:5
Then the sons of Heth replied to Abraham, saying to him
Quote: וַיַּעֲנ֧וּ בְנֵי־חֵ֛ת אֶת־אַבְרָהָ֖ם לֵאמֹ֥ר לֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
See how you translated the sons of Heth in verse 3. Alternate translation: [The elders of the Hittites replied to him] or [When the leaders of the Hittites heard that, they responded]
Genesis 23:6
Listen to us, my lord
Quote: שְׁמָעֵ֣נוּ ׀ אֲדֹנִ֗י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics
Abraham was not their actual lord or master. Rather, the Hittites are addressing him in a respectful manner. Also, for some languages it is more natural or respectful to put the form of address “My lord” or “Sir” first in this quote. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Please listen to our proposal, my lord]
You {are} a mighty prince
Quote: נְשִׂ֨יא אֱלֹהִ֤ים אַתָּה֙ (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “You are a powerful/important leader/man” or (2) “You are a leader/man of/from God.” The interpretation that you do not follow in your translation could be put in a footnote.
among us
Quote: בְּתוֹכֵ֔נוּ (1)Alternate translation: [who lives among our people]
Bury
Quote: קְבֹ֖ר (1)Make sure that the reply of the Hittites sounds polite here in your translation. Alternate translation: [So you may put]
your dead
Quote: אֶת־מֵתֶ֑ךָ (1)Alternate translation: [your dead wife]
our burial places
Quote: קְבָרֵ֔ינוּ (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, “So please choose any one of our best burial sites and bury/put your dead/deceased wife there.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [places to bury people who have died] or [tombs]
Each of us will not withhold from you his burial place to bury
Quote: אִ֣ישׁ מִמֶּ֔נּוּ אֶת־קִבְר֛וֹ לֹֽא־יִכְלֶ֥ה מִמְּךָ֖ מִקְּבֹ֥ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes
Alternate translation: [Each of us is happy to give you some of his land where you can bury] or [All of us are happy for you to use any of our burial sites to bury]
your dead
Quote: אֶת־מֵתֶ֑ךָ (1)Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Sarah’s dead body here since it was just mentioned in the previous sentence. Alternate translation: [your dead wife]
Genesis 23:7
Then Abraham got up
Quote: וַיָּ֧קָם אַבְרָהָ֛ם (1)The verb got up reflects the fact that Abraham and the leaders/elders of the Hittites were all sitting as they talked to each other. Alternate translation: [So Abraham got up]
and bowed
Quote: וַיִּשְׁתַּ֥חוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
We do not know how far Abraham bowed down. He may have bowed his upper body from a standing position, or he may have knelt down and touched his forehead to the ground with his arms outstretched. Alternate translation: [and bowed low to the ground in respect] or [and kneeled and touched his forehead to the ground in respect]
to the people of the land, to the sons of Heth
Quote: לְעַם־הָאָ֖רֶץ לִבְנֵי־חֵֽת (1)The phrase people of the land is a term that refers to the leaders of that region who owned land in the area and were the ones to decide whether a foreigner could acquire land. Alternate translation: [in front of the elders of the Hittites, who owned the land in the area] or [before the elders over the Hittites]
Genesis 23:8
and he said to them, saying
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר אִתָּ֖ם לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Consider whether it is more natural in your language to have two verbs or just one verb in this quote margin. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [and said to them]
to bury my dead from before me
Quote: לִקְבֹּ֤ר אֶת־מֵתִי֙ מִלְּפָנַ֔י (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 4. Alternate translation: [for me to bury my dead wife here] or [to allow me to bury the body of my wife who has died] or [to let me give my deceased wife a proper burial here]
listen to me and intercede for me with Ephron, the son of Zohar
Quote: שְׁמָע֕וּנִי וּפִגְעוּ־לִ֖י בְּעֶפְר֥וֹן בֶּן־צֹֽחַר (1)Alternate translation: [please appeal to Ephron the son of Zohar on my behalf]
Genesis 23:9
so that he will give to me
Quote: וְיִתֶּן־לִ֗י (1)Alternate translation: [to give to me]
the cave of Machpelah, which {belongs} to him, which {is} at the end of his field
Quote: אֶת־מְעָרַ֤ת הַמַּכְפֵּלָה֙ אֲשֶׁר־ל֔וֹ אֲשֶׁ֖ר בִּקְצֵ֣ה שָׂדֵ֑הוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Machpelah is the name of the area or neighborhood where Ephron’s cave and field were located (verse 17). Alternate translation: [his cave that is at the end of his field in the Machpelah area]
For full price let him give it to me
Quote: בְּכֶ֨סֶף מָלֵ֜א יִתְּנֶ֥נָּה לִ֛י (1)Alternate translation: [Ask him to give it to me for its full value] or [Ask him to sell it to me and I will pay him the full amount that it is worth]
among you
Quote: בְּתוֹכְכֶ֖ם (1)Alternate translation: [in front of you all] or [with all of you present to witness the sale]
as property for a burial place
Quote: לַאֲחֻזַּת־קָֽבֶר (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [so that I will have land to bury the body of my deceased wife] or [That way I will have a place here where I can bury the body of my wife who has died]
Genesis 23:10
Now Ephron was sitting among the sons of Heth
Quote: וְעֶפְר֥וֹן יֹשֵׁ֖ב בְּת֣וֹךְ בְּנֵי־חֵ֑ת (1)Alternate translation: [Now Ephron the Hittite was sitting there at the meeting among the other Hittite elders] or [Ephron was one of the Hittite elders who had gathered there at the meeting]
so Ephron the Hittite responded to Abraham
Quote: וַיַּעַן֩ עֶפְר֨וֹן הַחִתִּ֤י אֶת־אַבְרָהָם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [and he replied to Abraham]
in the ears of the sons of Heth
Quote: בְּאָזְנֵ֣י בְנֵי־חֵ֔ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Alternate translation: [in the hearing of the elders of the Hittites] or [as the other elders listened]
for everyone who had come {to} the gate of his city
Quote: לְכֹ֛ל בָּאֵ֥י שַֽׁעַר־עִיר֖וֹ (1)The pronoun his refers back to everyone who had gathered at the city gate, not just one person. Also, in that culture, the leaders of a city would hold their meetings at the city gates, where they would make decisions on important matters such as the one Abraham brought before them. You could include that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: [including everyone who had gathered there at their city gate]
saying
Quote: לֵאמֹֽר (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: [This is what he said:]
Genesis 23:11
No, my lord
Quote: לֹֽא־אֲדֹנִ֣י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
Make sure your translation of this phase sounds polite. In some cultures it is rude to say No too directly. Alternate translation: [That is not necessary, sir] or [Sir, there is no need for that]
Listen to me
Quote: שְׁמָעֵ֔נִי (1)Alternate translation: [Please listen to my proposal:] or [Please accept this proposal:] or [Please listen to what I am proposing:]
I give to you the field
Quote: הַשָּׂדֶה֙ נָתַ֣תִּי לָ֔ךְ (1)Ephron is making a formal proposal or offer. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: [I hereby offer you the entire field]
and I give to you the cave that {is} in it
Quote: וְהַמְּעָרָ֥ה אֲשֶׁר־בּ֖וֹ לְךָ֣ נְתַתִּ֑יהָ (1)Alternate translation: [as well as the cave that is in it]
before the eyes of the sons of my people
Quote: לְעֵינֵ֧י בְנֵי־עַמִּ֛י (1)Alternate translation: [in the sight of the elders of my people] or [as the elders of my people listen as witnesses] or [and all the elders of my people here are witnesses of this]
Bury your dead
Quote: קְבֹ֥ר מֵתֶֽךָ (1)Alternate translation: [You can bury your dead wife there] or [Please go ahead and bury your dead wife on that land]
Genesis 23:12
Then Abraham bowed
Quote: וַיִּשְׁתַּ֨חוּ֙ אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
See how you translated bowed in verse 7. Alternate translation: [Once again, Abraham bowed]
the people of the land
Quote: עַ֥ם הָאָֽרֶץ (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 7. You could translate this in a slightly different way here since these people have been referred to repeatedly before this. Alternate translation: [in front of the people who owned the land in the area] or [to the elders of the Hittites]
Genesis 23:13
and he spoke to Ephron in the ears of the people of the land, saying
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֨ר אֶל־עֶפְר֜וֹן בְּאָזְנֵ֤י עַם־הָאָ֨רֶץ֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (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. See how you translated in the ears of in verse 10. Alternate translation: [and he said to Ephron while the rest of the elders listened] or [As they all listened, he said to Ephron]
But
Quote: אַ֛ךְ (1)Alternate translation: [Instead of doing that]
if you would, please
Quote: אִם־אַתָּ֥ה ל֖וּ (1)In verses 9-15, Abraham and Ephron are bargaining indirectly with each other according to the customs of that culture and time. Keep that in mind as you translate their conversation. Alternate translation: [if you are willing]
listen to me
Quote: שְׁמָעֵ֑נִי (1)Alternate translation: [please accept my proposal] or [please listen to what I am offering]
I will give the price of the field
Quote: נָתַ֜תִּי כֶּ֤סֶף הַשָּׂדֶה֙ (1)Alternate translation: [I will give you the full price of what the field is worth] or [I want to give you the full price of the field]
Take it from me
Quote: קַ֣ח מִמֶּ֔נִּי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
Alternate translation: [Please take my money]
and I will bury my dead there
Quote: וְאֶקְבְּרָ֥ה אֶת־מֵתִ֖י שָֽׁמָּה (1)Alternate translation: [so that I can bury the body of my dead wife there] or [so that the field will be mine and I can bury my wife there who has died] or [then I will have a place to bury the body of my deceased wife]
Genesis 23:14
Then Ephron answered Abraham, saying to him
Quote: וַיַּ֧עַן עֶפְר֛וֹן אֶת־אַבְרָהָ֖ם לֵאמֹ֥ר לֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then Ephron said to Abraham]
Genesis 23:15
My lord
Quote: אֲדֹנִ֣י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics
See how you translated this respectful form of address in verses 6 and 11.
listen to me
Quote: שְׁמָעֵ֔נִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
See how you translated this clause in verse 13. Make sure Ephron sounds polite here in your translation.
Land {worth} 400 shekels of silver
Quote: אֶרֶץ֩ אַרְבַּ֨ע מֵאֹ֧ת שֶֽׁקֶל־כֶּ֛סֶף (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, which was a weight measurement. Four hundred shekels of silver was about 10 pounds (4.5 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. See how you translated shekels of silver in Gen 20:16. Alternate translation: [The field is worth 400 shekels of silver] or [If I were selling that land, it would cost 400 shekels of silver]
between me and you
Quote: בֵּינִ֥י וּבֵֽינְךָ֖ (1)Alternate translation: [However, since you and I are friends] or [But as far as you and I are concerned]
what {is} that
Quote: מַה־הִ֑וא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Decide whether or not a rhetorical question fits here well in your language. Alternate translation: [what significance is that?] or [that is not important] or [I would not ask you to pay that]
So bury your dead
Quote: וְאֶת־מֵתְךָ֖ קְבֹֽר (1)Consider again how you translated “bury … dead” in verses 4, 6, 8, 11, 13, and 15. Alternate translation: [So go ahead and bury your dead wife there]
Genesis 23:16
So Abraham listened to Ephron
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמַ֣ע אַבְרָהָם֮ אֶל־עֶפְרוֹן֒ (1)Make sure it is clear in your translation that Abraham did not just hear what Ephron said, but also acted on it.
and Abraham weighed out to Ephron
Quote: וַיִּשְׁקֹ֤ל אַבְרָהָם֙ לְעֶפְרֹ֔ן (1)Alternate translation: [so he paid him]
the price that he had mentioned
Quote: אֶת־הַכֶּ֕סֶף אֲשֶׁ֥ר דִּבֶּ֖ר (1)Alternate translation: [the amount of silver that he had stated]
in the ears of the sons of Heth
Quote: בְּאָזְנֵ֣י בְנֵי־חֵ֑ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated this phrase in verse 10. You might need to translate it differently here because of the different context. Alternate translation: [in the hearing of the other Hittite elders] or [as the rest of the elders of the Hittites watched and listened]
400 shekels of silver
Quote: אַרְבַּ֤ע מֵאוֹת֙ שֶׁ֣קֶל כֶּ֔סֶף (1)Alternate translation: [which was 400 shekels of silver]
the currency among the merchants
Quote: עֹבֵ֖ר לַסֹּחֵֽר (1)Alternate translation: [using the same kind of weights that merchants used to accurately weigh silver] or [using the standard shekel that traders used at that time]
Genesis 23:17
So the field of Ephron … was deeded
Quote: וַיָּ֣קָם ׀ שְׂדֵ֣ה עֶפְר֗וֹן (1)Verses 17-18 are a summary of the transaction between Ephron and Abraham. Make sure your translation of these verses does not sound like this was a second time that the field was sold. Alternate translation: [That is how the field that belonged to Ephron]
that {was} in Machpelah
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֙ בַּמַּכְפֵּלָ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [that was in the Machpelah area]
which {was} before Mamre
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֖ר לִפְנֵ֣י מַמְרֵ֑א (1)Mamre was another name for the city of Hebron (verse 19). The name probably came from Abraham’s friend and ally who lived there (Gen 13:18; 14:13). Alternate translation: [east of the city of Mamre]
the field and the cave that {was} in it
Quote: הַשָּׂדֶה֙ וְהַמְּעָרָ֣ה אֲשֶׁר־בּ֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [including both the field and the cave that was in it]
in the field, that {was} within all of its surrounding borders
Quote: בַּשָּׂדֶ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר בְּכָל־גְּבֻל֖וֹ סָבִֽיב (1)Alternate translation: [in the field, whatever was inside its borders] or [anywhere inside the borders of the field]
So … was deeded
Quote: וַיָּ֣קָם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it may be better to break up this long sentence, change the order of the phrases in this verse, and say, “So Ephron sold his field to Abraham, including the cave that was in the field, as well as all the trees that were inside its boundaries. The field was in the Machpelah area near the city of Mamre. Ephron sold the/that field …” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [was legally sold by Ephron] or [Ephron sold all of that]
Genesis 23:18
to Abraham as his possession
Quote: לְאַבְרָהָ֥ם לְמִקְנָ֖ה (1)Alternate translation: [to Abraham as his property] or [to Abraham, and it became his possession]
before the eyes of the sons of Heth
Quote: לְעֵינֵ֣י בְנֵי־חֵ֑ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom before the eyes of in verse 11. Alternate translation: [in the sight of the elders of the Hittites] or [while the leaders of the Hittites watched as witnesses]
before everyone who had come to the gate of his city
Quote: בְּכֹ֖ל בָּאֵ֥י שַֽׁעַר־עִירֽוֹ (1)For some languages it may be more natural to change the order of some of the clauses in this verse and say, “… to Abraham in front of the leaders of the Hittites who had gathered at the city gates, so that they all witnessed that the land was now Abraham’s property.” Do what is best in your language. Also, see how you translated a similar clause in verse 10. Alternate translation: [including everyone who had gathered at their city gate] or [That included everyone who had met together at their city gates]
Genesis 23:19
Then after that
Quote: וְאַחֲרֵי־כֵן֩ (1)Alternate translation: [After he bought the field]
Abraham buried Sarah his wife
Quote: קָבַ֨ר אַבְרָהָ֜ם אֶת־שָׂרָ֣ה אִשְׁתּ֗וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [he placed the body of his wife Sarah]
in the cave of the field of Machpelah
Quote: אֶל־מְעָרַ֞ת שְׂדֵ֧ה הַמַּכְפֵּלָ֛ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Be consistent here with how you spelled Machpelah in verses 9 and 17. Alternate translation: [in the cave in the field in the Machpelah area]
before Mamre
Quote: עַל־פְּנֵ֥י מַמְרֵ֖א (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 17. Also, be consistent here with how you spelled this name in verse 17 and in Gen 14:13, 24; 18:1. Alternate translation: [near the city of Mamre]
which {is} Hebron
Quote: הִ֣וא חֶבְר֑וֹן (1)Alternate translation: [which is also called Hebron] or [also known as Hebron]
in the land of Canaan
Quote: בְּאֶ֖רֶץ כְּנָֽעַן (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 2. Alternate translation: [in the land called Canaan]
Genesis 23:20
So the field and the cave that {was} in it were deeded to Abraham
Quote: וַיָּ֨קָם הַשָּׂדֶ֜ה וְהַמְּעָרָ֧ה אֲשֶׁר־בּ֛וֹ לְאַבְרָהָ֖ם (1)Verse 20 is a concluding summary of chapter 23 and repeats parts of verses 17-18. Make sure that the way you translate this does not sound like Abraham bought another property from the Hittites. Alternate translation: [So that is how that field, including the cave that was in the field, were legally sold to Abraham] or [So in that way, the field of Ephron, including …]
as property for a burial place from the sons of Heth
Quote: לַאֲחֻזַּת־קָ֑בֶר מֵאֵ֖ת בְּנֵי־חֵֽת (1)Consider again how you translated a burial place in verses 4, 9, and 20, and how you translated the sons of Heth in verses 3, 5, 7, 10, 16, 18, and 20. Alternate translation: [by the Hittites as a burial site]
Genesis 24
Genesis 24:1
Now Abraham was old, advanced in days
Quote: וְאַבְרָהָ֣ם זָקֵ֔ן בָּ֖א בַּיָּמִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
Verse 1 gives the setting for the new episode and begins with a doublet that emphasizes how old Abraham was. Try to preserve this emphasis in a way that is natural in your translation. Alternate translation: [Abraham was very old now. He had lived many years] or [Now Abraham had become very old]
and Yahweh had blessed Abraham
Quote: וַֽיהוָ֛ה בֵּרַ֥ךְ אֶת־אַבְרָהָ֖ם (1)See how you translated “bless” in Gen 12:2-3. Alternate translation: [and Yahweh had caused him to prosper]
in all {things
Quote: בַּכֹּֽל (1)Alternate translation: [in everything he had done]
Genesis 24:2
Then Abraham said to
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אַבְרָהָ֗ם אֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
Consider what is the best way to introduce the first event in this episode in your language. Alternate translation: [One day he told]
his oldest servant of his house
Quote: עַבְדּוֹ֙ זְקַ֣ן בֵּית֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [the oldest servant in his household] or [his senior household servant]
who was in charge of everything
Quote: הַמֹּשֵׁ֖ל בְּכָל (1)Alternate translation: [who managed everything that he owned] or [who took care of his entire estate for him]
Please put your hand under my thigh
Quote: שִֽׂים־נָ֥א יָדְךָ֖ תַּ֥חַת יְרֵכִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
You can make the meaning of this custom explicit in your translation, or you can put that information in a footnote. What Abraham asks his servant to do here is part of the vow-making process in verse 3. Alternate translation: [Please put your hand under my leg to show that you will do what I ask]
Genesis 24:3
and I will have you swear
Quote: וְאַשְׁבִּ֣יעֲךָ֔ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative
Decide the best way to translate this command in your language. Also, see how you translated swear in Gen 21:23, and see the note about that there. Alternate translation: [and vow to me] or [and make an unbreakable promise to me]
by Yahweh, the God of the heavens and the God of the earth
Quote: בַּֽיהוָה֙ אֱלֹהֵ֣י הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם וֵֽאלֹהֵ֖י הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)See how you translated “the heavens and the earth” in Gen 1:1. Alternate translation: [with Yahweh as your witness, the God who rules the heavens and the earth]
that you will not take a wife for my son
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר לֹֽא־תִקַּ֤ח אִשָּׁה֙ לִבְנִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
For some languages it is clearer and more natural to make “Isaac” explicit here in verse 3 rather than wait until the end of verse 4. Do what is best in your language. Also, see how you translated the idiom “took a wife for” in Gen 21:21. Alternate translation: [that you will not get a woman for my son Isaac to marry from among]
from the daughters of the Canaanites whom I am living among
Quote: מִבְּנוֹת֙ הַֽכְּנַעֲנִ֔י אֲשֶׁ֥ר אָנֹכִ֖י יוֹשֵׁ֥ב בְּקִרְבּֽוֹ (1)Make sure your translation does not sound like Abraham was living by himself among the Canaanites; his family and servants also lived among them with him. Alternate translation: [the Canaanite women whom we live among]
Genesis 24:4
but you will go
Quote: כִּ֧י & תֵּלֵ֑ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative
Alternate translation: [Instead, you must go] or [Instead, I want you to go]
to my country
Quote: אֶל־אַרְצִ֛י (1)Alternate translation: [to my home country] or [to the region where I grew up] or [to the country that I came from]
and to my relatives
Quote: וְאֶל־מוֹלַדְתִּ֖י (1)Alternate translation: [to my kinfolk who live there]
and take a wife for my son, for Isaac
Quote: וְלָקַחְתָּ֥ אִשָּׁ֖ה לִבְנִ֥י לְיִצְחָֽק (1)The way you refer to Isaac here will depend on how you referred to him in verse 3. Alternate translation: [and find a wife from there for my son Isaac to marry] or [and get a wife from among them for him to marry] or [and arrange for him to marry one of their daughters]
Genesis 24:5
Then the servant said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֵלָיו֙ הָעֶ֔בֶד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Consider what is the best way to translate this quote margin in your language so that it fits the context well. Alternate translation: [Then the servant asked Abraham]
Suppose
Quote: אוּלַי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
See how you translated this phrase in Gen 18:24, 28, 29. Alternate translation: [Suppose that]
the woman
Quote: הָֽאִשָּׁ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [the young woman I choose] or [when I find that young woman, she]
is not willing
Quote: לֹא־תֹאבֶ֣ה (1)Alternate translation: [does not want]
to come with me
Quote: לָלֶ֥כֶת אַחֲרַ֖י (1)Alternate translation: [to go back with me] or [to follow me back]
to this land
Quote: אֶל־הָאָ֣רֶץ הַזֹּ֑את (1)Alternate translation: [to live in this land?]
Should I take your son back
Quote: הֶֽהָשֵׁ֤ב אָשִׁיב֙ אֶת־בִּנְךָ֔ (1)Alternate translation: [In that case, should I take your son] or [Do you want me to then take your son back there]
to the country that you came from
Quote: אֶל־הָאָ֖רֶץ אֲשֶׁר־יָצָ֥אתָ מִשָּֽׁם (1)Alternate translation: [to live in your home country?]
Genesis 24:6
Then Abraham said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר אֵלָ֖יו אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Consider what is the best way to translate this quote margin at this point in the conversation. Alternate translation: [Then Abraham replied to his servant] or [Abraham replied]
Be sure that you do not take my son back
Quote: הִשָּׁ֣מֶר לְךָ֔ פֶּן־תָּשִׁ֥יב אֶת־בְּנִ֖י (1)Alternate translation: [No, make sure that you never take my son back] or [No, you must definitely not take my son back]
there
Quote: שָֽׁמָּה (1)Alternate translation: [to my home land to live]
Genesis 24:7
Yahweh, the God of the heavens
Quote: יְהוָ֣ה ׀ אֱלֹהֵ֣י הַשָּׁמַ֗יִם (1)Make sure it is clear in your translation that verse 7 gives the reason for verse 6. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here, and see how you translated the God of the heavens in verse 3. Alternate translation: [because Yahweh, the God who created the heavens]
and from the land of my relatives
Quote: וּמֵאֶ֣רֶץ מֽוֹלַדְתִּי֒ (1)Alternate translation: [and from the land where the rest of my family live]
and who spoke to me and who swore to me, saying
Quote: וַאֲשֶׁ֨ר דִּבֶּר־לִ֜י וַאֲשֶׁ֤ר נִֽשְׁבַּֽע־לִי֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)Alternate translation: [and he made an vow to me and said] or [and he made an unbreakable promise to me and said]
To your offspring I will give this land
Quote: לְזַ֨רְעֲךָ֔ אֶתֵּ֖ן אֶת־הָאָ֣רֶץ הַזֹּ֑את (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
The phrase this land refers to the land of Canaan here, not the land where Abraham’s relatives lived. Make sure that is clear in your translation. Also, consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote with a direct quote or an indirect quote. Alternate translation: [I will give this land to your offspring] or [that he will give this land where we live to my descendants]
he will send his angel before you
Quote: ה֗וּא יִשְׁלַ֤ח מַלְאָכוֹ֙ לְפָנֶ֔יךָ (1)If you begin a new sentence here, make sure that the previous sentence is well-formed and complete in your language. Also, see how you translated angel in Gen 22:11, 15. Alternate translation: [He will send one of his angels ahead of you to guide you]
and you will take
Quote: וְלָקַחְתָּ֥ (1)Alternate translation: [so that you will be able to find] or [so that you can get]
a wife for my son from there
Quote: אִשָּׁ֛ה לִבְנִ֖י מִשָּֽׁם (1)See how you translated “take/find a wife for” in verses 3-4. Alternate translation: [a wife from there for my son to marry] or [a wife from my home land for my son to marry]
Genesis 24:8
But if the woman
Quote: וְאִם & הָֽאִשָּׁה֙ (1)Alternate translation: [However, if the woman you find]
is not willing
Quote: לֹ֨א תֹאבֶ֤ה (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 5. Alternate translation: [does not want]
to come with you
Quote: לָלֶ֣כֶת אַחֲרֶ֔יךָ (1)See how you translated a similar phrase (“to come with me”) in verse 5. Alternate translation: [to follow you back here]
from this oath of mine
Quote: מִשְּׁבֻעָתִ֖י זֹ֑את (1)An oath is a serious, unbreakable promise or vow that is made before God to guarantee that it will be fulfilled. See how you translated the verb form of this word (“swear” or “vow”) in verse 3. Alternate translation: [then you will be released from keeping this oath that I am requesting you to swear now] or [then you will not have to fulfill this binding promise that you are swearing to me now]
Only
Quote: רַ֣ק (1)Alternate translation: [Just]
do not take my son back there
Quote: אֶת־בְּנִ֔י לֹ֥א תָשֵׁ֖ב שָֽׁמָּה (1)See how you translated a similar clause in verse 6. Alternate translation: [you must not take my son back to my home land!]
Genesis 24:9
Then the servant put his hand under the thigh of Abraham his master
Quote: וַיָּ֤שֶׂם הָעֶ֨בֶד֙ אֶת־יָד֔וֹ תַּ֛חַת יֶ֥רֶךְ אַבְרָהָ֖ם אֲדֹנָ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
See how you translated a similar clause in verse 2. Also, in that culture, people owned servants and had complete authority over them. Make sure your translation of master and servant does not imply that the servant was mistreated. Servants were treated well, could hold important positions and were often considered as members of the master’s family. See how you translated a related term “mistress/owner” in Gen 16:4, 8-9.
and swore to him
Quote: וַיִּשָּׁ֣בַֽע ל֔וֹ (1)See how you translated swore in verse 7 and “swear” in verse 3. Alternate translation: [and made an vow to him] or [and made an unbreakable promise to him]
concerning this matter
Quote: עַל־הַדָּבָ֖ר הַזֶּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Some languages need to make explicit what this matter refers to. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [that he would do what he had told him to do] or [that he would go find a wife for Isaac]
Genesis 24:10
Then the servant took ten camels from the camels of his master
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֣ח הָ֠עֶבֶד עֲשָׂרָ֨ה גְמַלִּ֜ים מִגְּמַלֵּ֤י אֲדֹנָיו֙ (1)Make sure that your translation of took does not imply that the servant stole the camels or valuable things from Abraham. Rather, the good things that he loaded on the camels included things that he would give as gifts to Isaac’s relatives (verse 53). Also, see how you translated camels in Gen 12:16.
and left, and all {kinds of} good {things} from his master {were} in his hand, and he got up
Quote: וַיֵּ֔לֶךְ וְכָל־ט֥וּב אֲדֹנָ֖יו בְּיָד֑וֹ וַיָּ֗קָם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
For some languages, it is best to make it explicit here in verse 10 that other servants went with Abraham’s chief servant, rather than have them appear suddenly in verse 32. Do what is best in your language.
and went to
Quote: וַיֵּ֛לֶךְ אֶל (1)This was about a 800 kilometer (500 mile) trip and would take camels about seventeen days to complete. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [and made the long journey to] or [Then he traveled to]
to the city of Nahor
Quote: אֶל־עִ֥יר נָחֽוֹר (1)Nahor lived in the city of Haran (Gen 11:31-32). That information could be put in a footnote. Make sure your translation of this phrase does not sound like Nahor owned the city.
Genesis 24:11
by the well of water
Quote: אֶל־בְּאֵ֣ר הַמָּ֑יִם (1)Each town or city had a well where people from the city came to get their water. See how you translated well of water in Gen 21:19. You might need to translate this in a slightly different way here because of the different context. Alternate translation: [near its well] or [by the public well that was there]
at evening time
Quote: לְעֵ֣ת עֶ֔רֶב (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
at the time the women who draw water come out
Quote: לְעֵ֖ת צֵ֥את הַשֹּׁאֲבֹֽת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
In that time and culture, there was no running water in homes so people had to come out to the city well to get water for their families. Alternate translation: [the time when the young women of the city came out to draw water from the well for their families] or [when the young women of the city were starting to come out to the well to get water for their families]
Genesis 24:12
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֓ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Consider what is the best way to begin this paragraph in your language.
Yahweh
Quote: יְהוָ֗ה (1)Consider what is the best way to begin this prayer in your language. Alternate translation: [Oh Yahweh]
God of my master Abraham
Quote: אֱלֹהֵי֙ אֲדֹנִ֣י אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [who is the God whom my master Abraham serves]
please cause it to happen before me today that you show kindness toward my master Abraham
Quote: הַקְרֵה־נָ֥א לְפָנַ֖י הַיּ֑וֹם וַעֲשֵׂה־חֶ֕סֶד עִ֖ם אֲדֹנִ֥י אַבְרָהָֽם (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, “Please be kind/gracious to my master by helping me succeed today.” or “Please show your kindness to my master today by helping me find a wife/woman for his son to marry.” Do what is best in your language.
please cause it to happen before me today
Quote: הַקְרֵה־נָ֥א לְפָנַ֖י הַיּ֑וֹם (1)Alternate translation: [please help me do what I have come here to do today]
that you show kindness toward
Quote: וַעֲשֵׂה־חֶ֕סֶד עִ֖ם (1)Alternate translation: [and in that way show kindness to] or [and be kind to]
my master Abraham
Quote: אֲדֹנִ֣י אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Alternate translation: [him]
Genesis 24:13
Behold, I am standing by
Quote: הִנֵּ֛ה אָנֹכִ֥י נִצָּ֖ב עַל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
Make sure in your translation that what Abraham’s servant says here to Yahweh sounds polite and respectful, not rude, demanding, or complaining. Also, he is not telling God something that God did not already know. Alternate translation: [Look here I am, standing near] or [As you know, I am standing here beside]
this spring of water
Quote: עֵ֣ין הַמָּ֑יִם (1)The phrase spring of water (here and in verse 16) refers to the same well that is referred to in verses 11 and 20, which means that this was probably a spring-fed well. Some translation teams use only one term to refer to this spring or well throughout this chapter in order to prevent confusion. Decide what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [this spring-fed well]
and the daughters of the people of the city
Quote: וּבְנוֹת֙ אַנְשֵׁ֣י הָעִ֔יר (1)Alternate translation: [and the daughters of the townspeople] or [and the young women of the city]
are coming out to draw water
Quote: יֹצְאֹ֖ת לִשְׁאֹ֥ב מָֽיִם (1)See how you translated “draw/get water” in verse 11. Alternate translation: [are coming out here to get water]
Genesis 24:14
And let it be {that
Quote: וְהָיָ֣ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
Make sure that your translation of the servant’s request to God sounds polite.
the young woman whom I say to her
Quote: הַֽנַּעֲרָ֗ אֲשֶׁ֨ר אֹמַ֤ר אֵלֶ֨יהָ֙ (1)The phrase young woman is actually a single word in Hebrew (like the old English words “damsel” and “maiden”) and refers to a young woman who is old enough to get married, but has never been married before. Some languages have a single word for this; other languages prefer a phrase.
Please let down your jar
Quote: הַטִּי־נָ֤א כַדֵּךְ֙ (1)The water containers that people used were usually made out of clay. Alternate translation: [Please lower your water jug]
so that I may drink
Quote: וְאֶשְׁתֶּ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [so that I can drink some water] or [so that I can take a drink of water]
and she says
Quote: וְאָמְרָ֣ה (1)Alternate translation: [if she says to me]
Drink and I will also water your camels
Quote: שְׁתֵ֔ה וְגַם־גְּמַלֶּ֖יךָ אַשְׁקֶ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
For some languages it is clearer and more natural to make one or both of the two embedded direct quotes in this verse into indirect quotes. For example you could say, “Please make it happen that when I ask one of the young women to lower her jug so that I can have a drink of water, she will offer me a drink and will also offer to draw water for my camels.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Have a drink, and I will also get water for your camels]
let} her {be the one} you have appointed
Quote: אֹתָ֤הּ הֹכַ֨חְתָּ֙ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
for your servant, for Isaac
Quote: לְעַבְדְּךָ֣ לְיִצְחָ֔ק (1)Alternate translation: [as a wife for your servant Isaac]
And by her I will know that you have shown kindness toward my master
Quote: וּבָ֣הּ אֵדַ֔ע כִּי־עָשִׂ֥יתָ חֶ֖סֶד עִם־אֲדֹנִֽי (1)See how you translated “show kindness toward” in verse 12. Alternate translation: [and that you have been kind to my master Abraham]
Genesis 24:15
Then it happened before he had finished speaking
Quote: וַֽיְהִי־ה֗וּא טֶרֶם֮ כִּלָּ֣ה לְדַבֵּר֒ (1)Many translations omit the phrase Then it happened, but this phrase emphasizes the events that follow it and adds suspense, so that the audience wonders what the outcome will be. Do what is natural in your language.
then behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֧ה (1)This phrase spotlights Rebekah and shows that she is the center of attention. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: [just then he saw] or [suddenly he saw]
Rebekah was coming out
Quote: רִבְקָ֣ה יֹצֵ֗את (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants
Consider what is the best way in your language to introduce Rebekah here for the first time in this episode. Some translations use an exclamation point to help show the excitement.
who was born to Bethuel
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֤ר יֻלְּדָה֙ לִבְתוּאֵ֣ל (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [Her father was Bethuel]
And her water jar {was} on her shoulder
Quote: וְכַדָּ֖הּ עַל־שִׁכְמָֽהּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it may be more natural to put this clause earlier in this verse and say, “Rebekah was coming out of the city with/carrying her/a water jar/jug on her shoulder.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [She was carrying a water jug on her shoulder] or [She had a water jug on her shoulder]
Genesis 24:16
And the young woman {was} a very beautiful-looking virgin
Quote: וְהַֽנַּעֲרָ֗ טֹבַ֤ת מַרְאֶה֙ מְאֹ֔ד בְּתוּלָ֕ה (1)See how you translated young woman in verses 14 and 15. Alternate translation: [Rebekah was a very beautiful unmarried young woman]
and a man had not known her
Quote: וְאִ֖ישׁ לֹ֣א יְדָעָ֑הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom “not known a man” in Gen 19:8. Alternate translation: [whom no man had ever slept with] or [who had never slept with a man] or [who had never had sexual relations with a man]
And she went down
Quote: וַתֵּ֣רֶד (1)Notice that the spring or well was at a place that was lower than the place where Abraham’s servant was standing. Alternate translation: [She went down]
to the spring
Quote: הָעַ֔יְנָה (1)See how you translated spring in verse 13. Alternate translation: [to the spring-fed well]
and filled her jar
Quote: וַתְּמַלֵּ֥א כַדָּ֖הּ (1)Alternate translation: [filled her jar with water]
and came up
Quote: וַתָּֽעַל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
If it is not clear, you may need to make it explicit in your translation that Rebekah still had the jar with her when she came up from the well or spring, especially since she lowers it from her shoulder in verse 18. Alternate translation: [and came back up with it on her shoulder]
Genesis 24:17
Then the servant ran to meet her
Quote: וַיָּ֥רָץ הָעֶ֖בֶד לִקְרָאתָ֑הּ (1)Alternate translation: [Then the servant ran up to her]
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [and requested]
Please let me drink a little water from your jar
Quote: הַגְמִיאִ֥ינִי נָ֛א מְעַט־מַ֖יִם מִכַּדֵּֽךְ (1)Alternate translation: [Please let me have a little water to drink from your jar] or [Please give me a little drink from your jar]
Genesis 24:18
Drink, my lord
Quote: שְׁתֵ֣ה אֲדֹנִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics
Make sure that Rebekah’s reply is polite and respectful in your language, though the way she addresses Abraham’s servant should not make it sound like she is his slave. Also see how you translated my lord in Gen 23:6, 11, 15. Alternate translation: [Certainly, sir, you may have a drink]
Then she hurried and lowered her jar to her hand{s
Quote: וַתְּמַהֵ֗ר וַתֹּ֧רֶד כַּדָּ֛הּ עַל־יָדָ֖הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Alternate translation: [Then she quickly lowered her jar from her shoulder to her hands]
and gave him a drink
Quote: וַתַּשְׁקֵֽהוּ (1)Alternate translation: [and let him have a drink]
Genesis 24:19
And {after} she finished giving him a drink
Quote: וַתְּכַ֖ל לְהַשְׁקֹת֑וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [After he finished drinking]
then she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [she offered to him]
I will also draw water for your camels
Quote: גַּ֤ם לִגְמַלֶּ֨יךָ֙ אֶשְׁאָ֔ב (1)Alternate translation: [Let me also get water for all your camels]
until they have finished drinking
Quote: עַ֥ד אִם־כִּלּ֖וּ לִשְׁתֹּֽת (1)Alternate translation: [until they are done]
Genesis 24:20
Then she hurried and emptied her jar
Quote: וַתְּמַהֵ֗ר וַתְּעַ֤ר כַּדָּהּ֙ (1)See how you translated Then she hurried and in verse 18. Alternate translation: [So she quickly poured the rest of the water from her jug]
into the trough
Quote: אֶל־הַשֹּׁ֔קֶת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
The drinking trough was a long, open stone container that several animals could drink from at the same time. Alternate translation: [into the animal drinking place that was there] or [into the stone thing that was there for animals to drink out of]
and ran back to the well to draw water
Quote: וַתָּ֥רָץ ע֛וֹד אֶֽל־הַבְּאֵ֖ר לִשְׁאֹ֑ב (1)Alternate translation: [and ran back and forth to the well to get more water]
and she drew water for all his camels
Quote: וַתִּשְׁאַ֖ב לְכָל־גְּמַלָּֽיו (1)Alternate translation: [until she had brought enough for all of the camels]
Genesis 24:21
And the man watched her silently
Quote: וְהָאִ֥ישׁ מִשְׁתָּאֵ֖ה לָ֑הּ מַחֲרִ֕ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants
Starting in verse 21 the Hebrew text takes Rebekah and Laban’s perspective and refers to Abraham’s servant as the man. This continues until verse 34, when the servant tells everyone that he is Abraham’s servant. For some languages this is confusing (because it sounds like two different people), so for those languages it is necessary to refer to him as “Abraham’s servant” or “the servant” throughout this chapter.
to know whether Yahweh had made his journey succeed or not
Quote: לָדַ֗עַת הַֽהִצְלִ֧יחַ יְהוָ֛ה דַּרְכּ֖וֹ אִם־לֹֽא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Alternate translation: [to find out whether or not Yahweh had made him successful on his trip to find a wife for Isaac] or [to see for sure if Yahweh had given him success on his trip]
Genesis 24:22
Then it happened, when the camels had finished drinking
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י כַּאֲשֶׁ֨ר כִּלּ֤וּ הַגְּמַלִּים֙ לִשְׁתּ֔וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Alternate translation: [After all the camels had drunk as much water as they wanted and Rebekah had stopped drawing water]
then the man took out a gold nose ring, its weight a beka
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֤ח הָאִישׁ֙ נֶ֣זֶם זָהָ֔ב בֶּ֖קַע מִשְׁקָל֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight
Many translation teams keep the numbers and the names of weights that are used in the Bible text in their translation, and they may or may not put the modern equivalents in pounds or grams in a footnote. Other teams do the opposite. One beka was about 1/5 of an ounce (5.5 grams), and ten shekels (See below) was about 4 ounces (110 grams). Alternate translation: [the servant brought out a gold nose ring weighing one beka and gave it to her] or [the servant gave her a gold nose ring that weighed one beka]
and two gold bracelets
Quote: וּשְׁנֵ֤י צְמִידִים֙ & זָהָ֖ב (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [He also gave her two gold bracelets]
for her arms
Quote: עַל־יָדֶ֔יהָ (1)The Hebrew term is ambiguous here; it can refer to hands, arms, or wrists. However in this context, the bracelets would have been put on the arms or the wrists.
their weight ten shekels
Quote: עֲשָׂרָ֥ה & מִשְׁקָלָֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight
Alternate translation: [Each bracelet weighed ten shekels]
Genesis 24:23
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then he said to her] or [Then he asked Rebekah]
Whose daughter {are} you? Please tell me
Quote: בַּת־מִ֣י אַ֔תְּ הַגִּ֥ידִי נָ֖א לִ֑י (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. The phrase Please tell me can go: (1) with the previous question (“Whose daughter are you?”); or (2) with the following question (“Is there a place...to lodge?”). Since Abraham’s servant’s goal was to find a wife for Isaac who was one of Abraham’s relatives, the first interpretation seems most likely.
Is there a place at the house of your father
Quote: הֲיֵ֧שׁ בֵּית־אָבִ֛יךְ מָק֥וֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
If you made your father explicit in the previous sentence, it may be more natural to refer to him with the pronoun “his” in this sentence. Alternate translation: [Also, is there enough room in his house] or [Also, does your father have any room in his house]
for us
Quote: לָ֖נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
The pronoun us includes other servants who came with Abraham’s chief servant (as verse 32 shows). If your language has inclusive and exclusive forms of this pronoun, you should use the exclusive form here.
to lodge
Quote: לָלִֽין (1)Alternate translation: [to stay there tonight?]
Genesis 24:24
Then she said to him
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [She answered him] or [She replied]
I {am} the daughter of Bethuel
Quote: בַּת־בְּתוּאֵ֖ל אָנֹ֑כִי (1)Alternate translation: [Bethuel is my father]
the son of Milcah, whom she bore for Nahor
Quote: בֶּן־מִלְכָּ֕ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר יָלְדָ֖ה לְנָחֽוֹר (1)Make sure the way you translate this does not sound like Bethuel was the only son of Milcah and Nahor; they had eight sons (Gen 22: 21-22). Also, in some cultures the father’s name is normally given first; in other cultures the mother’s name is normally first. Alternate translation: [who is a son of Milcah and Nahor] or [and his parents are Nahor and Milcah]
Genesis 24:25
Then she said to him
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Some languages leave this quote margin implied here, because the same person is still talking to the same person. Other languages can keep the quote margin (like the Hebrew text does), to emphasize what Rebekah says next. The quote margin may also indicate that Rebekah paused before she said what she says in verse 25. Alternate translation: [Then she continued]
Plenty of both straw and fodder {are} with us
Quote: גַּם־תֶּ֥בֶן גַּם־מִסְפּ֖וֹא רַ֣ב עִמָּ֑נוּ (1)The term fodder refers to dry feed that is prepared for animals to eat; it can include chopped hay and grains such as oats and barley. Alternate translation: [We have plenty of both straw and other feed at our house for your camels to eat]
There is} also a place
Quote: גַּם־מָק֖וֹם (1)Alternate translation: [and there is also enough room in his house for all of you]
to lodge
Quote: לָלֽוּן (1)See how you translated this in verse 23. Alternate translation: [to spend the night there]
Genesis 24:26
Then the man bowed down and prostrated himself before Yahweh
Quote: וַיִּקֹּ֣ד הָאִ֔ישׁ וַיִּשְׁתַּ֖חוּ לַֽיהוָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
See how you translated bowed in Gen 18:2; 19:1. The word prostrated means he bowed low to the ground and touched his face or forehead to the ground with outstretched arms, in an act of worship. When combined with bowed down as in this verse, it is usually translated as “worshiped.”
Genesis 24:27
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)The servant is worshiping God by bowing down and by what he says in verse 27. Alternate translation: [He said]
Praised be Yahweh
Quote: בָּר֤וּךְ יְהוָה֙ (1)See how you translated this in Gen 9:26. Alternate translation: [I praise Yahweh]
the God of my master Abraham
Quote: אֱלֹהֵי֙ אֲדֹנִ֣י אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)See how you translated God of my master Abraham in verse 12. Alternate translation: [who is the God whom my master Abraham worships]
who has not abandoned his kindness and his faithfulness toward my master
Quote: אֲ֠שֶׁר לֹֽא־עָזַ֥ב חַסְדּ֛וֹ וַאֲמִתּ֖וֹ מֵעִ֣ם אֲדֹנִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes
Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated kindness in verses 12 and 14. The phrase not abandoned is a way of emphasizing that Yahweh had always been kind and faithful to Abraham. Alternate translation: [He has always been kind and faithful to my master]
As for} me, Yahweh has led me on the road
Quote: אָנֹכִ֗י בַּדֶּ֨רֶךְ֙ נָחַ֣נִי יְהוָ֔ה (1)The last part of verse 27 is what Abraham’s servant is praising God for; it is an example of how God has been kind and faithful to Abraham. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [and he has guided me on the road here] or [Yes, he guided me on my trip here]
Genesis 24:28
Then the young woman ran
Quote: וַתָּ֨רָץ֙ הַֽנַּעֲרָ֔ (1)See how you translated young woman previously in this chapter, and consider what is the best way to refer to Rebekah here. Alternate translation: [Then Rebekah ran home]
and announced
Quote: וַתַּגֵּ֖ד (1)Alternate translation: [and reported to] or [and shared the news with]
about those things
Quote: כַּדְּבָרִ֖ים הָאֵֽלֶּה (1)Alternate translation: [about what the man had said to her]
Genesis 24:29
Now Rebekah had a brother
Quote: וּלְרִבְקָ֥ה אָ֖ח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
Laban was Rebekah’s older brother. Some languages have a specific term for “older brother” that fits well here. Also, consider what is the best way to introduce this background information in your language. Alternate translation: [Now it so happened that Rebekah had a brother]
and his name {was} Laban
Quote: וּשְׁמ֣וֹ לָבָ֑ן (1)Alternate translation: [named Laban]
and Laban ran
Quote: וַיָּ֨רָץ לָבָ֧ן (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 Laban here in your language. Alternate translation: [and he ran] or [He ran]
to the man outside at the spring
Quote: אֶל־הָאִ֛ישׁ הַח֖וּצָה אֶל־הָעָֽיִן (1)Alternate translation: [out to the spring where the man was] or [to where the man was standing beside the well]
Genesis 24:30
And it was when he had seen
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י ׀ כִּרְאֹ֣ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-versebridge
Verse 30 is a flashback of what had happened before Laban ran to the well (verse 29). Consider what is the best way to express this in your language. For some languages it may be necessary to combine verses 29-30 and put the sentences in the order that things actually happened. For example, “Now Rebekah had a brother named Laban. When he saw the nose ring and the bracelets she was wearing and heard her tell what the man had said to her, he hurried out to meet the man. He found/saw him standing with his camels beside the well.” If you do this, you would mark these combined verses as 29-30. Alternate translation: [This is how it was When he had seen] or [As soon as he had seen]
the nose ring and the bracelets on the arms of his sister
Quote: אֶת־הַנֶּ֗זֶם וְֽאֶת־הַצְּמִדִים֮ עַל־יְדֵ֣י אֲחֹתוֹ֒ (1)Some languages have a specific term for “younger sister” that fits well here. Also see how you translated nose ring and bracelets in verse 22. Alternate translation: [the nose ring and the bracelets that his sister was wearing]
and when he had heard the words of Rebekah his sister, saying, “This {is} what the man said to me
Quote: וּכְשָׁמְע֗וֹ אֶת־דִּבְרֵ֞י רִבְקָ֤ה אֲחֹתוֹ֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר כֹּֽה־דִבֶּ֥ר אֵלַ֖י הָאִ֑ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Consider whether it is more natural in your language to use a direct quote or indirect quote here. If you want to make it clear who the man refers to, you should still translate it generally, for example, “the man I met at the well” because when Rebekah said this, she did not yet know who he was. Alternate translation: [and had heard her tell what the man at the well had said to her]
then he went to the man
Quote: וַיָּבֹא֙ אֶל־הָאִ֔ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Alternate translation: [he went out to where the man was]
and behold, he was standing
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֛ה עֹמֵ֥ד (1)The word behold emphasizes what follows it. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [and there he was, standing] or [He saw him standing]
by the camels at the spring
Quote: עַל־הַגְּמַלִּ֖ים עַל־הָעָֽיִן (1)Alternate translation: [with his camels at the spring] or [near the well with his camels]
Genesis 24:31
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Make sure it is clear in your translation that Laban is the one talking here. Consider whether or not to include whom he is speaking to in this quote margin. Alternate translation: [Then Laban said to the man]
Come
Quote: בּ֖וֹא (1)Alternate translation: [Please come stay with us]
blessed of Yahweh
Quote: בְּר֣וּךְ יְהוָ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [you who are blessed by Yahweh]
Why are you standing out here
Quote: לָ֤מָּה תַעֲמֹד֙ בַּח֔וּץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Laban is being polite here, not accusing or critical. For some languages a rhetorical question does not fit here. Do what is best in your language.
For I have prepared the house
Quote: וְאָנֹכִי֙ פִּנִּ֣יתִי הַבַּ֔יִת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Consider whether or not it is necessary in your translation to make any implied information explicit in this sentence. Alternate translation: [because the house is ready for you and your men to lodge there]
and a place
Quote: וּמָק֖וֹם (1)Alternate translation: [and we also have room there]
for the camels
Quote: לַגְּמַלִּֽים (1)Alternate translation: [where your camels can stay]
Genesis 24:32
So the man went to the house
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֤א הָאִישׁ֙ הַבַּ֔יְתָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
The Hebrew verb can be translated went or “came,” depending on the perspective that is taken. Do what is most natural in your language. Alternate translation: [Then the man went home with Laban]
Then he unloaded the camels
Quote: וַיְפַתַּ֖ח הַגְּמַלִּ֑ים (1)The Hebrew text (he) is ambiguous here, but since Laban was the host it is most likely that he (or some of his servants) took care of the camels for his guests. Alternate translation: [There Laban took the loads off the camels]
and gave straw and fodder to the camels
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֨ן תֶּ֤בֶן וּמִסְפּוֹא֙ לַגְּמַלִּ֔ים (1)See how you translated straw and fodder in verse 25. Alternate translation: [and fed them straw and other fodder]
and water to wash his feet and the feet of the men who {were} with him
Quote: וּמַ֨יִם֙ לִרְחֹ֣ץ רַגְלָ֔יו וְרַגְלֵ֥י הָאֲנָשִׁ֖ים אֲשֶׁ֥ר אִתּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Make sure your translation does not sound like Abraham’s chief servant washed the feet of the other servants who were with him; each person washed off his own feet. See how you translated “wash the dust off your feet” in Gen 19:2.
Genesis 24:33
Then food was set before him to eat
Quote: ויישם לְפָנָיו֙ לֶאֱכֹ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
Consider whether it is best in your language to use a passive or active construction here. Alternate translation: [Then they brought the servant and his men some food]
but he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [but the man said to them]
I will not eat until I have spoken my words
Quote: לֹ֣א אֹכַ֔ל עַ֥ד אִם־דִּבַּ֖רְתִּי דְּבָרָ֑י (1)Alternate translation: [I will not eat anything until I have told you my message] or [Before I can eat anything, I need to tell you why I am here]
So he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [So Laban replied]
Speak
Quote: דַּבֵּֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
Make sure the way you translate this sounds polite. Alternate translation: [Please tell us what you want to say] or [Go ahead and tell us your message]
Genesis 24:34
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Consider again how you referred to “the man” in verses 21, 22, 26, 29-34, and see the note about that at verse 21. Alternate translation: [Then the man told them]
Genesis 24:35
And Yahweh has greatly blessed my master
Quote: וַיהוָ֞ה בֵּרַ֧ךְ אֶת־אֲדֹנִ֛י מְאֹ֖ד (1)Alternate translation: [Yahweh has abundantly prospered my master]
so that he has become great
Quote: וַיִּגְדָּ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
Alternate translation: [so that he is wealthy] or [and as a result, he is very wealthy]
And he has given him flock{s} and herd{s
Quote: וַיִּתֶּן־ל֞וֹ צֹ֤אן וּבָקָר֙ (1)This is the beginning of a list of what Yahweh had given Abraham. Consider the most natural way to list items in your language. Also, see how you translated flocks and herds in Gen 13:5.
and silver and gold
Quote: וְכֶ֣סֶף וְזָהָ֔ב (1)See how you translated silver and gold in Gen 13:2.
and men slaves and women slaves
Quote: וַעֲבָדִם֙ וּשְׁפָחֹ֔ת (1)See how you translated this phrase in Gen 20:14. Alternate translation: [many men and women slaves] or [many male and female slaves]
and camels and donkeys
Quote: וּגְמַלִּ֖ים וַחֲמֹרִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
See how you translated donkeys in Gen 22:3.
Genesis 24:36
after her old age
Quote: אַחֲרֵ֖י זִקְנָתָ֑הּ (1)Alternate translation: [in her old age] or [when she was very old]
and he has given to him
Quote: וַיִּתֶּן־לּ֖וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [and my master has given his son]
everything that {belongs} to him
Quote: אֶת־כָּל־אֲשֶׁר־לֽוֹ (1)Alternate translation: [all of his property]
Genesis 24:37
And my master made me swear
Quote: וַיַּשְׁבִּעֵ֥נִי אֲדֹנִ֖י (1)See how you translated swear in verse 3, and “swore” in verses 7 and 9. Alternate translation: [Before I came here, my master had me vow to do something for him] or [Before I came here, my master asked me to make an unbreakable promise to him]
saying
Quote: לֵאמֹ֑ר (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: [and he said to me] or [This is what he said to me:]
You must not take a wife for my son
Quote: לֹא־תִקַּ֤ח אִשָּׁה֙ לִבְנִ֔י (1)See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 3. Alternate translation: [You must not get a woman for my son to marry]
from the daughters of the Canaanites
Quote: מִבְּנוֹת֙ הַֽכְּנַעֲנִ֔י (1)Alternate translation: [from among the Canaanite women]
whose land I am living in
Quote: אָנֹכִ֖י יֹשֵׁ֥ב בְּאַרְצֽוֹ (1)As in verse 3, make sure your translation does not sound like Abraham lived by himself among the Canaanites; his family and servants also lived among them with him. Alternate translation: [whom we live among in this land]
Genesis 24:38
but rather
Quote: אִם־לֹ֧א (1)Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here. After you translate a section, it is a good habit to read through it at normal speed as you pay attention to where it is best to begin new sentences so that sentences and paragraphs flow well and it is easy for people to read. Alternate translation: [Instead]
you must go to the house of my father
Quote: אֶל־בֵּית־אָבִ֛י תֵּלֵ֖ךְ (1)See how you translated house of my father in verse 7.
and take a wife for my son
Quote: וְלָקַחְתָּ֥ אִשָּׁ֖ה לִבְנִֽי (1)Alternate translation: [and find a wife from among them for my son to marry]
Genesis 24:39
Suppose
Quote: אֻלַ֛י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
See how you translated this phrase in verse 5. Alternate translation: [Suppose that]
the woman
Quote: הָאִשָּׁ֖ה (1)Alternate translation: [the young woman I choose] or [when I find that young woman, she]
will not come with me
Quote: לֹא־תֵלֵ֥ךְ & אַחֲרָֽי (1)See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 5. Alternate translation: [does not want to go back with me?]
Genesis 24:40
And he said to me
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר אֵלָ֑י (1)Alternate translation: [He told me] or [He replied to me]
Yahweh, whom I walk before
Quote: יְהוָ֞ה אֲשֶׁר־הִתְהַלַּ֣כְתִּי לְפָנָ֗יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated “walk/live before” in Gen 17:1. This idiom implies that Abraham lived according to God’s will. Alternate translation: [Yahweh, whose presence I walk in] or [Yahweh whom I obey]
will send his angel
Quote: יִשְׁלַ֨ח מַלְאָכ֤וֹ (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 7.
with you
Quote: אִתָּךְ֙ (1)Alternate translation: [to go with you] or [to accompany you]
and make … succeed
Quote: וְהִצְלִ֣יחַ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [to make your journey successful]
so that you will take a wife for my son from my clan
Quote: וְלָקַחְתָּ֤ אִשָּׁה֙ לִבְנִ֔י מִמִּשְׁפַּחְתִּ֖י (1)See how you translated clan in verse 38, and consider again how you translated take a wife for my son in verses 3, 4, 7, 37-38. Alternate translation: [so that you can get a wife for my son from among my relatives] or [so that you can arrange for my son to marry a woman who is one of my relatives]
and from the house of my father
Quote: וּמִבֵּ֥ית אָבִֽי (1)See how you translated house of my father in verse 38.
Genesis 24:41
Then
Quote: אָ֤ז (1)The word Then is a special Hebrew word that can mean “at that time” and implies here that the servant’s question (in verse 39) is now being addressed specifically. Alternate translation: [At this time] or [But if this happens] or [There is a situation when]
you will be clear from my oath
Quote: תִּנָּקֶה֙ מֵאָ֣לָתִ֔י (1)Alternate translation: [you will be released from keeping your vow you are making to me:] or [you will not have to fulfill the vow to me:]
When you go to my clan, and if they will not give her to you
Quote: כִּ֥י תָב֖וֹא אֶל־מִשְׁפַּחְתִּ֑י וְאִם־לֹ֤א יִתְּנוּ֙ לָ֔ךְ (1)Alternate translation: [After you go to my clan and find a woman for Isaac, if they are not willing to let her go with you] or [If you find a wife for Isaac but my family refuses to let the woman you have chosen leave with you]
then you will be clear from my oath
Quote: וְהָיִ֥יתָ נָקִ֖י מֵאָלָתִֽי (1)See how you translated clear from earlier in this verse and in verse 8. Alternate translation: [you will be released from keeping the vow that you are making to me] or [you will not have to keep the unbreakable promise you are making to me]
Genesis 24:42
Then today I came to the spring
Quote: וָאָבֹ֥א הַיּ֖וֹם אֶל־הָעָ֑יִן (1)Make sure it is clear in your translation that the servant is now talking about himself. He is no longer quoting Abraham (whose words ended in verse 41).
and I said, ‘Yahweh
Quote: וָאֹמַ֗ר יְהוָה֙ (1)See how you began the prayer in verse 12.
God of my master Abraham
Quote: אֱלֹהֵי֙ אֲדֹנִ֣י אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 12. Alternate translation: [who is the God whom my master Abraham serves]
if it is your will
Quote: אִם־יֶשְׁךָ (1)Alternate translation: [if you agree]
please make my journey succeed
Quote: נָּא֙ מַצְלִ֣יחַ דַּרְכִּ֔י (1)See how you translated this clause in verses 21 and 40. Alternate translation: [please give me success during this trip] or [please make me successful on this trip]
that I have come on
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר אָנֹכִ֖י הֹלֵ֥ךְ עָלֶֽיהָ (1)Alternate translation: [that I have undertaken]
Genesis 24:43
Behold, I am standing by
Quote: הִנֵּ֛ה אָנֹכִ֥י נִצָּ֖ב עַל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
See how you translated this in verse 13. Alternate translation: [Look here I am, standing beside] or [As you know, I am standing here near]
this} spring of water
Quote: עֵ֣ין הַמָּ֑יִם (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 13. Alternate translation: [this spring-fed well]
And let it be {that
Quote: וְהָיָ֤ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
See how you translated this phrase in verse 14.
and I say to her, “Please give me a little water to drink from your jar
Quote: וְאָמַרְתִּ֣י אֵלֶ֔יהָ הַשְׁקִֽינִי־נָ֥א מְעַט־מַ֖יִם מִכַּדֵּֽךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
This direct quote is within a direct quote that is within another direct quote. For some languages, it may be clearer or more natural to use an indirect quote here. Decide what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [and I ask her to let me drink some water from her water jar]
Genesis 24:44
and she says to me, “Both you drink and I will also draw water for your camels
Quote: וְאָמְרָ֤ה אֵלַי֙ גַּם־אַתָּ֣ה שְׁתֵ֔ה וְגַ֥ם לִגְמַלֶּ֖יךָ אֶשְׁאָ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
See how you translated the embedded direct quote in verse 43. Alternate translation: [if she gives me a drink and also offers to draw water for my camels]
let} her {be} the wife whom Yahweh has chosen for the son of my master
Quote: הִ֣וא הָֽאִשָּׁ֔ה אֲשֶׁר־הֹכִ֥יחַ יְהוָ֖ה לְבֶן־אֲדֹנִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Make sure it is clear in your translation that Abraham’s servant is still talking directly to Yahweh in this clause. For example, you could make you explicit in this clause.
Genesis 24:45
Before I had finished
Quote: אֲנִי֩ טֶ֨רֶם אֲכַלֶּ֜ה (1)Alternate translation: [Before I could even finish]
speaking in my heart
Quote: לְדַבֵּ֣ר אֶל־לִבִּ֗י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Alternate translation: [praying to God in my heart] or [praying to God quietly]
then behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֨ה (1)Alternate translation: [just then I saw] or [there was]
Rebekah was coming out
Quote: רִבְקָ֤ה יֹצֵאת֙ (1)See how you translated the first half of verse 15, which is very similar to the first half of verse 45.
and her jar {was} on her shoulder
Quote: וְכַדָּ֣הּ עַל־שִׁכְמָ֔הּ (1)Alternate translation: [with her empty water jar on her shoulder]
And she went down to the spring and drew water
Quote: וַתֵּ֥רֶד הָעַ֖יְנָה וַתִּשְׁאָ֑ב (1)Consider again how you translated spring (verses 13, 16, 29-30, 42-43 and 45) and “well” (verses 11 and 20) in this chapter. Both terms refer to the same source of water. See the note about this at verse 13. Alternate translation: [She walked down to the spring and filled up her jar with water]
and I said to her, ‘Please give me a drink
Quote: וָאֹמַ֥ר אֵלֶ֖יהָ הַשְׁקִ֥ינִי נָֽא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Consider what is the best way to translate this embedded quote in your language. Alternate translation: [so I asked her to please give me a drink]
Genesis 24:46
And she hurried and lowered her jar
Quote: וַתְּמַהֵ֗ר וַתּ֤וֹרֶד כַּדָּהּ֙ (1)Consider again how you translated jar in verses 14-18, 20, 43, 45-46. Alternate translation: [She quickly lowered her jar] or [She quickly brought her jar down]
from her
Quote: מֵֽעָלֶ֔יהָ (1)Alternate translation: [off her shoulder]
and said, ‘Drink
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר שְׁתֵ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
Make sure Rebekah sounds polite here in your translation.
and I will also water your camels
Quote: וְגַם־גְּמַלֶּ֖יךָ אַשְׁקֶ֑ה (1)See how you translated this clause in verse 14. Also see verse 18, which is similar. Alternate translation: [and I will also give water to your camels] or [and I will also get water for your camels]
So I drank
Quote: וָאֵ֕שְׁתְּ (1)Alternate translation: [So I drank some water from her jar] or [So I took a drink from her jar]
and she also watered the camels
Quote: וְגַ֥ם הַגְּמַלִּ֖ים הִשְׁקָֽתָה (1)Alternate translation: [and she also drew water to my camels]
Genesis 24:47
Whose daughter {are} you
Quote: בַּת־מִ֣י אַתְּ֒ (1)See how you translated this question in verse 23.
And she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [She answered me] or [She replied]
The daughter of Bethuel
Quote: בַּת־בְּתוּאֵל֙ (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 24. Alternate translation: [I am the daughter of Bethuel]
a son of Nahor whom Milcah bore for him
Quote: בֶּן־נָח֔וֹר אֲשֶׁ֥ר יָֽלְדָה־לּ֖וֹ מִלְכָּ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [who is a son of Nahor and his wife Milcah] or [and his parents are Nahor and Milcah]
Then I put the ring on her nose and the bracelets on her arms
Quote: וָאָשִׂ֤ם הַנֶּ֨זֶם֙ עַל־אַפָּ֔הּ וְהַצְּמִידִ֖ים עַל־יָדֶֽיהָ (1)See how you translated “nose ring,” bracelets, and arms in verse 22. Alternate translation: [So I put the nose ring on her nose and the bracelets on her wrists] or [After that I gave her the nose ring and bracelets to wear]
Genesis 24:48
And I bowed down and prostrated myself before Yahweh, and I praised Yahweh
Quote: וָאֶקֹּ֥ד וָֽאֶשְׁתַּחֲוֶ֖ה לַיהוָ֑ה וָאֲבָרֵ֗ךְ אֶת־יְהוָה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
See how you translated “bowed down and prostrated himself” in verse 26, and see the note about that there. Alternate translation: [Next I bowed to the ground and worshiped and praised Yahweh]
the God of my master Abraham
Quote: אֱלֹהֵי֙ אֲדֹנִ֣י אַבְרָהָ֔ם (1)See how you translated this phrase in verses 12 and 42. Alternate translation: [the God whom my master Abraham serves]
who led me
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֤ר הִנְחַ֨נִי֙ (1)Alternate translation: [because he led me]
on the right way
Quote: בְּדֶ֣רֶךְ אֱמֶ֔ת (1)Alternate translation: [the right direction] or [exactly where I should go]
to take
Quote: לָקַ֛חַת (1)Alternate translation: [to get]
the daughter of my master’s brother
Quote: אֶת־בַּת־אֲחִ֥י אֲדֹנִ֖י (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “the granddaughter of my master’s brother,” which refers to Nahor’s granddaughter; or (2) “the daughter of my master’s relative,” which refers to Bethuel’s daughter. Abraham’s brother Nahor was the father of Bethuel and the grandfather of Rebekah (Genesis 11:26; 22:20-23).
for his son
Quote: לִבְנֽוֹ (1)Make sure it is clear in your translation that this refers to Abraham’s son, not Nahor’s or Bethuel’s son.
Genesis 24:49
And now if it is your will
Quote: וְ֠עַתָּה אִם־יֶשְׁכֶ֨ם (1)Throughout this verse “you” is plural. Alternate translation: [So now if you are willing]
to show kindness and faithfulness to my master
Quote: עֹשִׂ֜ים חֶ֧סֶד וֶֽאֱמֶ֛ת אֶת־אֲדֹנִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See how you translated kindness and faithfulness in verse 27. If necessary in your translation, you can make it explicit how they would show kindness and faithfulness to Abraham. Alternate translation: [to let her come with me, and in that way show your kindness and faithfulness to my master] or [to be kind and faithful to my master by sending her with me]
tell me. But if not, tell me
Quote: הַגִּ֣ידוּ לִ֑י וְאִם־לֹ֕א הַגִּ֣ידוּ לִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
It may be clearer or more natural to put this information near the beginning of the sentence and say, “So now, please tell me whether or not you are willing to let her come with me, and in that way show your kindness and faithfulness to my master,” or “So now, please tell me whether or not you are willing to be kind and faithful to my master by letting her come with me,” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [please tell me, or if you are not willing, tell me]
so that I will turn to the right or to the left
Quote: וְאֶפְנֶ֥ה עַל־יָמִ֖ין א֥וֹ עַל־שְׂמֹֽאל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Consider whether your language has the same idiom that Hebrew has here, or a similar idiom, with the same meaning, or whether you need to say this without an idiom. Alternate translation: [so that I can know which way to turn] or [so that I can know what to do next]
Genesis 24:50
The thing has come from Yahweh
Quote: מֵיְהוָ֖ה יָצָ֣א הַדָּבָ֑ר (1)Alternate translation: [We can clearly see that Yahweh has made all this happen] or [It is obvious that all this is the will of Yahweh]
we are not able
Quote: לֹ֥א נוּכַ֛ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual
Some languages have a dual pronoun that is used here. Alternate translation: [so it is not our right] or [so we have no right]
to tell you bad or good
Quote: דַּבֵּ֥ר אֵלֶ֖יךָ רַ֥ע אוֹ־טֽוֹב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Alternate translation: [to tell you anything different from what he has done] or [to decide anything against what he has decided]
Genesis 24:51
Behold, Rebekah {is} before you
Quote: הִנֵּֽה־רִבְקָ֥ה לְפָנֶ֖יךָ (1)Alternate translation: [See Rebekah is in front of you]
Take her and go
Quote: קַ֣ח וָלֵ֑ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
Alternate translation: [You may take her with you and go home]
as Yahweh has spoken
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֖ר דִּבֶּ֥ר יְהוָֽה (1)Alternate translation: [just as Yahweh has decided it should be]
Genesis 24:52
Then it happened, when the servant of Abraham heard their words
Quote: וַיְהִ֕י כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר שָׁמַ֛ע עֶ֥בֶד אַבְרָהָ֖ם אֶת־דִּבְרֵיהֶ֑ם (1)The phrase Then it happened introduces the climax of the chapter, when the servant responds to hearing that Yahweh has fulfilled his prayer to find a wife for Isaac. Do what is natural in your language.
then he bowed down to the ground before Yahweh
Quote: וַיִּשְׁתַּ֥חוּ אַ֖רְצָה לַֽיהוָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
See how you translated bowed down in verse 48. Notice that here in verse 52, the phrase to the ground is explicit and emphasized. Alternate translation: [he bowed low to the ground and praised Yahweh]
Genesis 24:53
Then the servant brought out
Quote: וַיּוֹצֵ֨א הָעֶ֜בֶד (1)Alternate translation: [Then he brought out]
jewelry of silver and jewelry of gold, and clothing, and gave them to Rebekah
Quote: כְּלֵי־כֶ֨סֶף וּכְלֵ֤י זָהָב֙ וּבְגָדִ֔ים וַיִּתֵּ֖ן לְרִבְקָ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [silver and gold jewelry and other expensive gifts, including beautiful clothing, and gave them to Rebekah] or [valuable gifts, including silver and gold jewelry, and also beautiful clothing, and gave them to Rebekah]
And he gave valuable things
Quote: וּמִ֨גְדָּנֹ֔ת נָתַ֥ן (1)Alternate translation: [He also gave expensive gifts]
to her brother and to her mother
Quote: לְאָחִ֖יהָ וּלְאִמָּֽהּ (1)Alternate translation: [to her mother and brother]
Genesis 24:54
Then he and the men who {were} with him ate and drank and lodged
Quote: וַיֹּאכְל֣וּ וַיִּשְׁתּ֗וּ ה֛וּא וְהָאֲנָשִׁ֥ים אֲשֶׁר־עִמּ֖וֹ וַיָּלִ֑ינוּ (1)See how you translated lodged in verses 23, 25, and 31.
Send me to my master
Quote: שַׁלְּחֻ֥נִי לַֽאדֹנִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
Make sure that what Abraham’s servant says here sounds polite in your translation, not rude or demanding. Alternate translation: [Please let us return home now to my master]
Genesis 24:55
Let the young woman stay with us
Quote: תֵּשֵׁ֨ב הַנַּעֲרָ֥ אִתָּ֛נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
Alternate translation: [Please let the young woman remain here with us] or [Please let Rebekah remain here with us]
a few days, at least ten
Quote: יָמִ֖ים א֣וֹ עָשׂ֑וֹר (1)Alternate translation: [around ten more days]
After that she will go
Quote: אַחַ֖ר תֵּלֵֽךְ (1)Alternate translation: [Then she can go with you] or [Then you can leave and take her with you]
Genesis 24:56
But he said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֲלֵהֶם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual
Some languages have a dual pronoun that could be used here. However the servant is probably still addressing the whole family.
Do not detain me, since Yahweh has made my journey succeed. Send me off
Quote: אַל־תְּאַחֲר֣וּ אֹתִ֔י וַֽיהוָ֖ה הִצְלִ֣יחַ דַּרְכִּ֑י שַׁלְּח֕וּנִי (1)There are two different places where you could begin a new sentence here. Consider what is the most clear and natural way to do this in your language. Also, see how you translated “make my journey succeed” in verse 42. Alternate translation: [Please do not detain me. Since Yahweh has made me successful on my journey, send us off] or [Please do not detain me, now that Yahweh has given me success on my journey. Let us leave]
so that I will go to my master
Quote: וְאֵלְכָ֖ה לַֽאדֹנִֽי (1)Alternate translation: [so that I can go home to my master]
Genesis 24:57
Then they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֖וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [They replied to him]
Let’s call for the young woman
Quote: נִקְרָ֣א לַֽנַּעֲרָ֑ (1)Consider again how you translated young woman in verses 14-16, 28, 43, 55, and 57, and see the note about this at verse 14. You may need to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
and ask her mouth
Quote: וְנִשְׁאֲלָ֖ה אֶת־פִּֽיהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Alternate translation: [and ask her to tell us what she wants to do] or [and ask her if she is willing to go now]
Genesis 24:58
So they called for Rebekah
Quote: וַיִּקְרְא֤וּ לְרִבְקָה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Consider whether it is better to use a name or a pronoun to refer to Rebekah here in your language, especially considering how you referred to her in verses 53, 55, and 57. Alternate translation: [Then they summoned her]
Will you go with this man
Quote: הֲתֵלְכִ֖י עִם־הָאִ֣ישׁ הַזֶּ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [Are you willing to go now with this man?]
I will go
Quote: אֵלֵֽךְ (1)Alternate translation: [Yes, I am willing to go now]
Genesis 24:59
Then they sent off Rebekah their sister
Quote: וַֽיְשַׁלְּח֛וּ אֶת־רִבְקָ֥ה אֲחֹתָ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Notice that Rebekah does not actually leave until verse 61. If this is not clear in your translation, you could include the implied information that they agreed or decided to send her with Abraham’s servant. Alternate translation: [So they decided to send their sister Rebekah]
and her nurse
Quote: וְאֶת־מֵנִקְתָּ֑הּ (1)The term nurse refers here to a servant woman who probably nursed Rebekah as a baby, took care of her as she was growing up, and still served her now.
and the servant of Abraham and his men
Quote: וְאֶת־עֶ֥בֶד אַבְרָהָ֖ם וְאֶת־אֲנָשָֽׁיו (1)Alternate translation: [with Abraham’s servant and his men]
Genesis 24:60
And they blessed Rebekah and said to her
Quote: וַיְבָרֲכ֤וּ אֶת־רִבְקָה֙ וַיֹּ֣אמְרוּ לָ֔הּ (1)Make sure your translation of “blessed … and said” refers to the same event, not two separate events.
Our sister
Quote: אֲחֹתֵ֕נוּ (1)This is a term of endearment that family members used to refer to Rebekah even though she was not the actual sister of all of them. This practice is common in many cultures. Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [Dear little sister]
may you become
Quote: אַ֥תְּ הֲיִ֖י (1)Alternate translation: [may you become the mother of] or [we pray that you will have]
thousands of myriads
Quote: לְאַלְפֵ֣י רְבָבָ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [thousands and thousands of descendants] or [many thousands of descendants]
and may your offspring possess
Quote: וְיִירַ֣שׁ זַרְעֵ֔ךְ (1)Alternate translation: [and we pray that your descendants will defeat] or [and we pray that God will help them defeat]
the gates of {those} hating them
Quote: אֵ֖ת שַׁ֥עַר שֹׂנְאָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the phrase possess the gates in Gen 22:17. Alternate translation: [the cities of all their enemies!]
Genesis 24:61
Then Rebekah got up and her maids
Quote: וַתָּ֨קָם רִבְקָ֜ה וְנַעֲרֹתֶ֗יהָ (1)Alternate translation: [Then Rebekah and her maids who were going with her got ready to go, and] or [After Rebekah and her maids who were going with her packed their things]
and went with the man
Quote: וַתֵּלַ֖כְנָה אַחֲרֵ֣י הָאִ֑ישׁ (1)Consider again how you translated the man in verses 21, 22, 26, 29, 30, 32, 61. See the note about this at verse 21.
So the servant took Rebekah
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֥ח הָעֶ֛בֶד אֶת־רִבְקָ֖ה (1)Alternate translation: [So he took her with him]
and left
Quote: וַיֵּלַֽךְ (1)Alternate translation: [and left to return home]
Genesis 24:62
Meanwhile Isaac came from going to
Quote: וְיִצְחָק֙ בָּ֣א מִבּ֔וֹא (1)Alternate translation: [While they were traveling, Isaac returned home from a trip he had made to]
Beer Lahai Roi
Quote: בְּאֵ֥ר לַחַ֖י רֹאִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
See how you translated the name of this place in Gen 16:14. Alternate translation: [the well called Beer Lahai Roi]
and he was living
Quote: וְה֥וּא יוֹשֵׁ֖ב (1)Alternate translation: [so he was back home where he lived]
in the land of the Negev
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ הַנֶּֽגֶב (1)See how you translated the land of the Negev in Gen 20:1, and the Negev in Gen 12:9; 13:1, 3. Alternate translation: [in the Negev Desert region] or [in the Negev Desert]
Genesis 24:63
And Isaac went to meditate in the field
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֥א יִצְחָ֛ק לָשׂ֥וּחַ בַּשָּׂדֶ֖ה (1)What Isaac does in verse 63 happened sometime after he returned from Beer Lahai Roi, but the Hebrew text does not say exactly when. So introduce this new event in a general way that is not too specific. Alternate translation: [One day he went out in the field to pray] or [After he had returned home, one day he was meditating out in the fields]
as it was turning toward evening
Quote: לִפְנ֣וֹת עָ֑רֶב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to put this time phrase earlier in this sentence and say, “One day as it was becoming evening, Isaac/he went …” or “One evening, Isaac/he went …” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [as it was becoming dusk] or [late in the afternoon]
and he lifted his eyes
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֤א עֵינָיו֙ (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.
and saw that, behold
Quote: וַיַּ֔רְא וְהִנֵּ֥ה (1)Alternate translation: [and saw in the distance that there were]
camels were coming
Quote: גְמַלִּ֖ים בָּאִֽים (1)Alternate translation: [some camels heading toward him] or [some camels approaching him]
Genesis 24:64
And Rebekah lifted her eyes and saw Isaac
Quote: וַתִּשָּׂ֤א רִבְקָה֙ אֶת־עֵינֶ֔יהָ וַתֵּ֖רֶא אֶת־יִצְחָ֑ק (1)Alternate translation: [Then Rebekah, as she looked ahead of her, saw Isaac]
Then she dismounted
Quote: וַתִּפֹּ֖ל (1)Alternate translation: [Then she quickly jumped down]
from the camel
Quote: מֵעַ֥ל הַגָּמָֽל (1)Consider again how you translated camel throughout chapter 24. Alternate translation: [off the camel that she was riding]
Genesis 24:65
Who {is} that man in the field who is coming to meet us
Quote: מִֽי־הָאִ֤ישׁ הַלָּזֶה֙ הַהֹלֵ֤ךְ בַּשָּׂדֶה֙ לִקְרָאתֵ֔נוּ (1)Alternate translation: [Who is that man walking towards us in the field?]
And the servant said, “He {is} my master
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר הָעֶ֖בֶד ה֣וּא אֲדֹנִ֑י (1)Abraham and Isaac were both the servant’s masters, especially since Abraham had already given Isaac all of his possessions (verse 36), which included his servants. Consider again how you translated “master/owner” throughout chapter 24.
So she took the veil and covered herself
Quote: וַתִּקַּ֥ח הַצָּעִ֖יף וַתִּתְכָּֽס (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
In that culture a bride-to-be wore a large veil to cover her entire body, especially her face, to show modesty and submission to her husband. Alternate translation: [So she took her veil and covered her face with it to show modesty] or [So she covered herself with her veil to show modesty]
Genesis 24:66
Then the servant reported to Isaac
Quote: וַיְסַפֵּ֥ר הָעֶ֖בֶד לְיִצְחָ֑ק (1)Alternate translation: [When they reached Isaac, the servant told him]
all the things that he had done
Quote: אֵ֥ת כָּל־הַדְּבָרִ֖ים אֲשֶׁ֥ר עָשָֽׂה (1)Alternate translation: [all that he had done during the trip] or [all that had happened on his journey]
Genesis 24:67
Then Isaac brought her
Quote: וַיְבִאֶ֣הָ יִצְחָ֗ק (1)Alternate translation: [So Isaac took Rebekah]
into the tent of Sarah his mother
Quote: הָאֹ֨הֱלָה֙ שָׂרָ֣ה אִמּ֔וֹ (1)Make sure your translation of this phrase does not sound like Sarah still lived there; she had died three years previously (Gen 23:1-2). Alternate translation: [into the tent where his mother Sarah had lived before she died]
And Isaac loved her
Quote: וַיֶּאֱהָבֶ֑הָ & יִצְחָ֖ק (1)Alternate translation: [Isaac loved Rebekah] or [Isaac fell in love with her]
and he was comforted
Quote: וַיִּנָּחֵ֥ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
Alternate translation: [and he was consoled by her] or [and she made him happy again]
after his mother
Quote: אַחֲרֵ֥י אִמּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Make sure it is clear in your translation here why Isaac needed comforting.
Genesis 25
Genesis 25:1
Then Abraham added and took a wife, and her name {was} Keturah
Quote: וַיֹּ֧סֶף אַבְרָהָ֛ם וַיִּקַּ֥ח אִשָּׁ֖ה וּשְׁמָ֥הּ קְטוּרָֽה (1)Abraham probably married Keturah after Sarah died (Gen 23:1-2) and after Isaac married Rebekah (Gen 24:67). Make sure your translation of this verse does not sound like Abraham had two wives named Keturah. Alternate translation: [Then Abraham married another woman, who was named Keturah]
Genesis 25:2
And she bore for him
Quote: וַתֵּ֣לֶד ל֗וֹ (1)See how you translated bore for him in Gen 21:3; 24:47. Alternate translation: [Keturah gave birth to sons for him whose names were] or [She bore sons for him whom they named] or [They had sons together whom they named]
Zimran and Jokshan and Medan and Midian and Ishbak and Shuah
Quote: אֶת־זִמְרָן֙ וְאֶת־יָקְשָׁ֔ן וְאֶת־מְדָ֖ן וְאֶת־מִדְיָ֑ן וְאֶת־יִשְׁבָּ֖ק וְאֶת־שֽׁוּחַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
See how you used commas and conjunctions in similar lists of names in Gen 22:22, 24.
Genesis 25:3
And Jokshan fathered
Quote: וְיָקְשָׁ֣ן יָלַ֔ד (1)See how you translated fathered in Gen 11:27. Alternate translation: [Jokshan was the father of]
Sheba and Dedan
Quote: אֶת־שְׁבָ֖א וְאֶת־דְּדָ֑ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Alternate translation: [sons whom they named Sheba and Dedan]
And the descendants of Dedan were the Asshurim and the Letushim and the Leummim
Quote: וּבְנֵ֣י דְדָ֔ן הָי֛וּ אַשּׁוּרִ֥ם וּלְטוּשִׁ֖ים וּלְאֻמִּֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See how you translated the names of people groups in Gen 10:4, 13-14, 16-18, and see the note about that at 10:4.
Genesis 25:4
Ephah and Epher and Hanoch and Abida and Eldaah
Quote: עֵיפָ֤ה וָעֵ֨פֶר֙ וַחֲנֹ֔ךְ וַאֲבִידָ֖ע וְאֶלְדָּעָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
Consider what is the best way to connect the names in this list in your language.
All of those {were} the descendants of Keturah
Quote: כָּל־אֵ֖לֶּה בְּנֵ֥י קְטוּרָֽה (1)This phrase refers back to all the people listed in verses 2-4, which includes Keturah’s six sons, seven grandsons and three great grandsons. Make sure you spelled Keturah consistently in verses 1-4. Alternate translation: [All those were the descendants of Keturah and Abraham]
Genesis 25:5
And Abraham gave everything that {belonged} to him to Isaac
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֧ן אַבְרָהָ֛ם אֶת־כָּל־אֲשֶׁר־ל֖וֹ לְיִצְחָֽק (1)Some languages have a specific word such as “left” or “willed” that means to give something as an inheritance. In that time and culture, a father would give his children their inheritance before he died. Alternate translation: [Abraham willed everything that he owned to Isaac] or [And Isaac inherited all that Abraham owned]
Genesis 25:6
And to the sons of the concubines who {belonged} to Abraham, Abraham gave gifts
Quote: וְלִבְנֵ֤י הַפִּֽילַגְשִׁים֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר לְאַבְרָהָ֔ם נָתַ֥ן אַבְרָהָ֖ם מַתָּנֹ֑ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
See how you translated “concubine” in Gen 22:24. The word gifts in this clause is very general and can include domestic animals, servants, gold, silver, and other things. Alternate translation: [Abraham also gave valuable gifts to the sons he had with his concubines] or [Abraham also gave (valuable gifts) to the sons that his servant wives had for him]
and while he was still alive he sent them eastward to the land of Kedem
Quote: וַֽיְשַׁלְּחֵ֞ם & בְּעוֹדֶ֣נּוּ חַ֔י קֵ֖דְמָה אֶל־אֶ֥רֶץ קֶֽדֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The Hebrew word Kedem means “east” and refers to the region east of Canaan and the Dead Sea. Consider whether it is best in your language to transliterate (copy) the Hebrew name or to translate the meaning. Alternate translation: [then while he was still alive he sent them eastward to the region in the East] or [but after that he sent them to the east country] or [and after that he made them move away to the east country]
away from Isaac his son
Quote: מֵעַ֨ל יִצְחָ֤ק בְּנוֹ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Alternate translation: [to be far away from his son Isaac] or [so that they would be far away from his son Isaac]
Genesis 25:7
And these {are} the days of the years of the life of Abraham that he lived: 175 years
Quote: וְאֵ֗לֶּה יְמֵ֛י שְׁנֵֽי־חַיֵּ֥י אַבְרָהָ֖ם אֲשֶׁר־חָ֑י מְאַ֥ת שָׁנָ֛ה וְשִׁבְעִ֥ים שָׁנָ֖ה וְחָמֵ֥שׁ שָׁנִֽים (1)Alternate translation: [Abraham lived a total of 175 years]
Genesis 25:8
Then Abraham exhaled
Quote: וַיִּגְוַ֨ע & אַבְרָהָ֛ם (1)Alternate translation: [Then he breathed out for the last time] or [Then he took his final breath]
and died at a good old age
Quote: וַיָּ֧מָת & בְּשֵׂיבָ֥ה טוֹבָ֖ה (1)Alternate translation: [and died at a ripe old age] or [and died when he was very old]
elderly and full
Quote: זָקֵ֣ן וְשָׂבֵ֑עַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The idiom full refers to a long life that was blessed by God. 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: [an old man who had lived a full life, and] or [After he had lived a long and blessed life]
and he was gathered to
Quote: וַיֵּאָ֖סֶף אֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
The phrase gathered to his people is a euphemism that refers to dying but also implies that God took his spirit to be with his ancestors who had already died. It is best to translate this phrase fairly literally since it teaches about life after death. Alternate translation: [he was taken by God to be with] or [God took his spirit to be with]
his people
Quote: עַמָּֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Make sure your translation of this phrase does not sound like these ancestors were still alive. They had already died before Abraham died. Alternate translation: [his relatives who had already died] or [his ancestors who had gone before him] or [his deceased relatives]
Genesis 25:9
Then Isaac and Ishmael his sons buried him
Quote: וַיִּקְבְּר֨וּ אֹת֜וֹ יִצְחָ֤ק וְיִשְׁמָעֵאל֙ בָּנָ֔יו (1)Alternate translation: [His sons Isaac and Ishmael buried his body]
in the cave of Machpelah
Quote: אֶל־מְעָרַ֖ת הַמַּכְפֵּלָ֑ה (1)See how you translated this phrase in Gen 23:9, and see the note about that there. Also see how you translated similar phrases in Gen 23:17, 19. Alternate translation: [in the cave of the Machpelah area]
in the field of Ephron the son of Zohar the Hittite
Quote: אֶל־שְׂדֵ֞ה עֶפְרֹ֤ן בֶּן־צֹ֨חַר֙ הַֽחִתִּ֔י (1)Ephron no longer owned the field (See: verse 10).
which {was} before Mamre
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֖ר עַל־פְּנֵ֥י מַמְרֵֽא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is clearer or more natural to put this phrase earlier in this verse. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated before Mamre in Gen 23:17, 19. Alternate translation: [near the city of Mamre]
Genesis 25:10
from the sons of Heth
Quote: מֵאֵ֣ת בְּנֵי־חֵ֑ת (1)The Hebrew text has two different ways to refer to the Hittites; compare the phrase here with verse 9 where a single Hebrew word is used to refer to this people group. See how you translated the sons of Heth in Gen 23:20.
There Abraham was buried, and Sarah his wife
Quote: שָׁ֛מָּה קֻבַּ֥ר אַבְרָהָ֖ם וְשָׂרָ֥ה אִשְׁתּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Abraham had already buried Sarah’s body in the cave (Gen 23:19). Make sure your translation of this sentence does not sound like Sarah was buried there a second time. Alternate translation: [Abraham was buried in that cave, where his wife Sarah had also been buried] or [That is where Sarah had been buried, and they buried Abraham next to her]
Genesis 25:11
then God blessed Isaac his son
Quote: וַיְבָ֥רֶךְ אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶת־יִצְחָ֣ק בְּנ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
Use the phrase order in your language that is most natural in this context.
And Isaac lived near
Quote: וַיֵּ֣שֶׁב יִצְחָ֔ק עִם (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [who settled near] or [Isaac lived in the region near]
Beer Lahai Roi
Quote: בְּאֵ֥ר לַחַ֖י רֹאִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Be consistent here with how you spelled Beer Lahai Roi in Gen 24:62. Alternate translation: [the well called Beer Lahai Roi]
Genesis 25:12
Now these {are} the generations of
Quote: וְאֵ֛לֶּה תֹּלְדֹ֥ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
Consider what is the best way in your language to introduce the new topic that begins here. See how you translated this clause in Gen 11:10. Alternate translation: [Here is the genealogy of] or [Here is the list of the descendants of] or [What follows is the record of the descendants of]
Genesis 25:13
by their names according to their births
Quote: בִּשְׁמֹתָ֖ם לְתוֹלְדֹתָ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [listed in the order that they were born:]
the firstborn of Ishmael {was} Nebaioth
Quote: בְּכֹ֤ר יִשְׁמָעֵאל֙ נְבָיֹ֔ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [His oldest child was Nebaioth]
then Kedar and Adbeel and Mibsam
Quote: וְקֵדָ֥ר וְאַדְבְּאֵ֖ל וּמִבְשָֽׂם (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [After him came Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam]
Genesis 25:15
Hadad and Tema, Jetur, Naphish, and Kedermah
Quote: חֲדַ֣ד וְתֵימָ֔א יְט֥וּר נָפִ֖ישׁ וָקֵֽדְמָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
See how you translated a similar list of names in verses 2-4.
Genesis 25:16
and those {are} their names by their settlements and by their camps, twelve rulers according to their tribes
Quote: וְאֵ֣לֶּה שְׁמֹתָ֔ם בְּחַצְרֵיהֶ֖ם וּבְטִֽירֹתָ֑ם שְׁנֵים־עָשָׂ֥ר נְשִׂיאִ֖ם לְאֻמֹּתָֽם (1)The Hebrew words for settlements and camps overlap in meaning. Both refer to temporary or permanent places where people settled, surrounded by some sort of wall or fence. Also, many translations have “princes” here instead of “rulers,” but these Ishmaelite rulers were not actually sons of a king. See how you translated rulers in Gen 17:20. Alternate translation: [who became the rulers of twelve tribes that were named after them, and each tribe lived in its own settlements and camps] or [Each of them became the ruler of a tribe that was named after him, and each tribe had its own villages and tent settlements]
Genesis 25:17
And these {are} the years of the life of Ishmael: 137 years
Quote: וְאֵ֗לֶּה שְׁנֵי֙ חַיֵּ֣י יִשְׁמָעֵ֔אל מְאַ֥ת שָׁנָ֛ה וּשְׁלֹשִׁ֥ים שָׁנָ֖ה וְשֶׁ֣בַע שָׁנִ֑ים (1)See how you translated a similar sentence in verse 7.
Then he exhaled and died
Quote: וַיִּגְוַ֣ע וַיָּ֔מָת (1)See how you translated exhaled in verse 8. Alternate translation: [Then Ishmael breathed out for the last time and died] or [Then Ishmael took his final breath and died]
and he was gathered to
Quote: וַיֵּאָ֖סֶף אֶל (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 8. Alternate translation: [and he was taken by God to be with] or [and God took his spirit to be with the spirits of]
his people
Quote: עַמָּֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Alternate translation: [his relatives who had already died] or [his relatives who had gone before him] or [his deceased relatives]
Genesis 25:18
from Havilah to Shur
Quote: מֵֽחֲוִילָ֜ה עַד־שׁ֗וּר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Be consistent here with how you spelled Havilah in Gen 2:11; 10:7, 29 and Shur in Gen 16:7; 20:1. The name Shur means “wall.” The Wilderness of Shur may have been named after a city or fortification named Shur that was located near the eastern border of Egypt (Gen 16:7). Alternate translation: [throughout the area that extended from the region of Havilah to the desert of Shur]
that {is} near Egypt
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֙ עַל־פְּנֵ֣י מִצְרַ֔יִם (1)Alternate translation: [that is east of the land of Egypt]
as you go
Quote: בֹּאֲכָ֖ה (1)Alternate translation: [as you go from there] or [as one goes]
toward Asshur
Quote: אַשּׁ֑וּרָה (1)Assyria and its capital city Asshur were far east of Shur. Consider again how you spelled Asshur in Gen 2:14; 10:11, 22, and 25:3, 18. Alternate translation: [to the city of Asshur in Assyria] or [in the direction of the land of Assyria]
He fell in the face of all his brothers
Quote: עַל־פְּנֵ֥י כָל־אֶחָ֖יו נָפָֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The Hebrew text has an idiom here that is ambiguous in this context. It could mean: (1) “He/They lived in hostility toward/against all his/their brothers/relatives.” or “They lived as enemies against all their brothers/relatives.” See how you translated a different idiom in 16:12 that probably has this meaning. Or it could mean: (2) “They settled/lived in the presence of all their brothers/relatives.” or “They settled/lived among/near all their brothers/relatives.” or (3) “He/Ishmael died in the presence of all his brothers/relatives.” or “He/Ishmael died when/while all his brothers were still alive.”
Genesis 25:19
And these {are} the generations of Isaac the son of Abraham
Quote: וְאֵ֛לֶּה תּוֹלְדֹ֥ת יִצְחָ֖ק בֶּן־אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)We have already heard about much of Isaac’s history in previous chapters; now we are told even more. See how you translated these are the generations of in verse 12 and Gen 6:9.
Abraham fathered Isaac
Quote: אַבְרָהָ֖ם הוֹלִ֥יד אֶת־יִצְחָֽק (1)See how you translated fathered in verse 3. Alternate translation: [After Abraham had his son Isaac]
Genesis 25:20
then Isaac was a son of forty years when he took Rebekah for himself as a wife
Quote: וַיְהִ֤י יִצְחָק֙ בֶּן־אַרְבָּעִ֣ים שָׁנָ֔ה בְּקַחְתּ֣וֹ אֶת־רִבְקָ֗ה & ל֥וֹ לְאִשָּֽׁה (1)See how you translated “was a son of … years” in Gen 21:5. Alternate translation: [Isaac grew up and married Rebekah when he was 40 years old]
the daughter of Bethuel the Aramean from Paddan Aram
Quote: בַּת־בְּתוּאֵל֙ הָֽאֲרַמִּ֔י מִפַּדַּ֖ן אֲרָ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [She was a daughter of Bethuel, who was an Aramean from the land of Paddan Aram]
the sister of Laban
Quote: אֲח֛וֹת לָבָ֥ן (1)Alternate translation: [and she was a sister of Laban]
Genesis 25:21
And Isaac entreated Yahweh on behalf of his wife because she {was} barren
Quote: וַיֶּעְתַּ֨ר יִצְחָ֤ק לַֽיהוָה֙ לְנֹ֣כַח אִשְׁתּ֔וֹ כִּ֥י עֲקָרָ֖ה הִ֑וא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Isaac and Rebekah had been married for almost 20 years and they still had no children. See how you translated barren in Gen 11:30. Also, it may be clearer to change the order of the clauses in this sentence to put them in the order in which they happened. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Isaac prayed earnestly to Yahweh for his wife to have children because she was barren] or [But for many years Rebekah was not able to get pregnant, so Isaac prayed that Yahweh would give her children]
So Yahweh was entreated by him
Quote: וַיֵּעָ֤תֶר לוֹ֙ יְהוָ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [Yahweh did what he prayed for]
and Rebekah his wife conceived
Quote: וַתַּ֖הַר רִבְקָ֥ה אִשְׁתּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
For some languages it is clearer to include here the fact that Rebekah was pregnant with two babies, rather than wait until verse 22. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [so that Rebekah became pregnant with twins]
Genesis 25:22
And the children struggled against each other inside her
Quote: וַיִּתְרֹֽצֲצ֤וּ הַבָּנִים֙ בְּקִרְבָּ֔הּ (1)Alternate translation: [And the two babies inside her kept pushing against each other] or [After a while the twins wrestled with each other inside her]
so she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [so Rebekah asked]
Why {is this} so? Why {am} I {like} this
Quote: אִם־כֵּ֔ן לָ֥מָּה זֶּ֖ה אָנֹ֑כִי (1)Alternate translation: [What is happening inside me?]
And she went to inquire of Yahweh
Quote: וַתֵּ֖לֶךְ לִדְרֹ֥שׁ אֶת־יְהוָֽה (1)Alternate translation: [Then she went to Yahweh to ask him what was happening] or [Then she prayed to Yahweh about it]
Genesis 25:23
And Yahweh said to her
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יְהוָ֜ה לָ֗הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [He answered her]
Two nations {are} inside your womb
Quote: שְׁנֵ֤י גוֹיִם֙ בְּבִטְנֵ֔ךְ (1)Many translations put Yahweh’s words in poetry format in this verse. If your translation team decides to do this, look at a Bible version that does this to know where to divide the clauses. Alternate translation: [Inside you are the ancestors of two people groups] or [The two babies inside your womb will become the fathers of two nations]
and two peoples
Quote: וּשְׁנֵ֣י לְאֻמִּ֔ים (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [Those two people groups] or [Those two ancestors]
will be divided
Quote: יִפָּרֵ֑דוּ (1)Alternate translation: [will be hostile against each other] or [will be rivals]
from inside your womb
Quote: מִמֵּעַ֖יִךְ (1)Alternate translation: [starting now even while they are still inside you]
Genesis 25:24
Then her days were fulfilled to deliver
Quote: וַיִּמְלְא֥וּ יָמֶ֖יהָ לָלֶ֑דֶת (1)Alternate translation: [Later when it was time for her to give birth]
and behold, twins {were} inside her womb
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֥ה תוֹמִ֖ם בְּבִטְנָֽהּ (1)Alternate translation: [sure enough, there were twin sons inside her!]
Genesis 25:25
And the first came out red; all of him {was} like a garment of hair
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֤א הָרִאשׁוֹן֙ אַדְמוֹנִ֔י כֻּלּ֖וֹ כְּאַדֶּ֣רֶת שֵׂעָ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
Alternate translation: [When the first baby came out, he was covered with thick red hair so that he was as hairy as a fur robe] or [The first baby who was born was completely covered with thick red hair]
so they called his name
Quote: וַיִּקְרְא֥וּ שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)The Hebrew text has they here, which probably refers to Esau’s parents and may include people in general after his parents named him. Alternate translation: [So he was named]
Esau
Quote: עֵשָֽׂו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Consider whether or not to include the meaning of Esau’s name in the text or in a footnote.
Genesis 25:26
his brother came out
Quote: יָצָ֣א אָחִ֗יו (1)Some languages have a specific term for a younger brother that fits here. See what you did in Gen 4:2.
so he called his name
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)See how you translated a similar clause in verse 25 that probably has the same meaning. Alternate translation: [So they called him] or [So he was named]
Jacob
Quote: יַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
If you decide to include the meaning of Jacob’s name in the text or in a footnote, make sure it matches the way you translate grabbing earlier in this sentence.
And Isaac {was} a son of sixty years
Quote: וְיִצְחָ֛ק בֶּן־שִׁשִּׁ֥ים שָׁנָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom “was a son of … years” in verse 20.
when she bore them
Quote: בְּלֶ֥דֶת אֹתָֽם (1)Alternate translation: [when Rebekah gave birth to them]
Genesis 25:27
Then the boys grew up
Quote: וַֽיִּגְדְּלוּ֙ הַנְּעָרִ֔ים (1)Alternate translation: [As the boys grew up]
and Esau became a man who knew hunting
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י עֵשָׂ֗ו אִ֛ישׁ יֹדֵ֥עַ צַ֖יִד (1)See how you translated a similar phrase (“mighty hunter”) in Gen 10:9. Alternate translation: [Esau became a expert hunter] or [Esau became good at hunting animals for food]
a man of the field
Quote: אִ֣ישׁ שָׂדֶ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [and he preferred being in the open country] or [and he was an outdoorsman]
and Jacob {was} a quiet man
Quote: וְיַעֲקֹב֙ אִ֣ישׁ תָּ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, make sure that it is clear in your translation that Esau and Jacob are being contrasted. Alternate translation: [but Jacob was a quiet man] or [Jacob, on the other hand, had a mild-mannered personality]
who stayed among the tents
Quote: יֹשֵׁ֖ב אֹהָלִֽים (1)Alternate translation: [and worked close to home] or [and liked to be at home]
Genesis 25:28
And Isaac loved Esau
Quote: וַיֶּאֱהַ֥ב יִצְחָ֛ק אֶת־עֵשָׂ֖ו (1)Your translation should not sound like Isaac and Rebekah did not love both of their sons. Rather, they each had their favorite son. Alternate translation: [Isaac loved Esau most]
because {he liked} game meat in his mouth
Quote: כִּי־צַ֣יִד בְּפִ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Make sure your translation of he liked refers here to Isaac, not Esau. For some languages it is clearer or more natural to put this clause first in this sentence and say, “Isaac liked to eat wild animal/deer meat, so his favorite son was Esau.” Do what is best your language. Alternate translation: [because he liked to eat the meat of wild deer that he hunted]
but Rebekah loved Jacob
Quote: וְרִבְקָ֖ה אֹהֶ֥בֶת אֶֽת־יַעֲקֹֽב (1)See how you translated a similar clause earlier in this verse. Alternate translation: [but Rebekah loved Jacob most]
Genesis 25:29
Now Jacob was cooking stew
Quote: וַיָּ֥זֶד יַעֲקֹ֖ב נָזִ֑יד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
According to verse 34, this stew (or thick soup) was made out of lentils, which are a type of bean; it may also have had pieces of meat in it. Consider what is the best way in your language to introduce the first event in this episode (following the background information in verses 27-28). Alternate translation: [Once Jacob was making some stew] or [One day when Jacob was making some stew]
and Esau came in from the field
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֥א עֵשָׂ֛ו מִן־הַשָּׂדֶ֖ה (1)See how you translated field in verse 27. Alternate translation: [Esau came home from working out in the fields]
and he {was} exhausted
Quote: וְה֥וּא עָיֵֽף (1)The Hebrew word for exhausted means Esau was very tired (perhaps even feeling faint) from his hunting or work, as well as hungry and thirsty from lack of food. Some languages have an idiom for this that fits well here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [and he felt weak from hunger] or [and he was weak and hungry] or [very tired and hungry]
Genesis 25:30
Then Esau said to Jacob
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר עֵשָׂ֜ו אֶֽל־יַעֲקֹ֗ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Consider what is the best way in your language to translate this quote margin. Alternate translation: [So Esau asked Jacob]
Please let me devour
Quote: הַלְעִיטֵ֤נִי נָא֙ (1)Alternate translation: [Please let me eat]
some of that very red stuff
Quote: מִן־הָאָדֹ֤ם הָאָדֹם֙ הַזֶּ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [some of that dark red stew you are making]
because I {am} exhausted
Quote: כִּ֥י עָיֵ֖ף אָנֹ֑כִי (1)See how you translated exhausted in verse 29. Alternate translation: [because I am weak from hunger!] or [because I am hungry and weak!]
For that {reason
Quote: עַל־כֵּ֥ן (1)Alternate translation: [Because he said that]
they called his name
Quote: קָרָֽא־שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)Frequently in the Hebrew text, this phrase has a general meaning and does not refer to someone specific. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [he is also called] or [they called him]
Edom
Quote: אֱדֽוֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
You could include the meaning of Edom in your translation or in a footnote so that it is clear why Esau was given that name.
Genesis 25:31
But Jacob said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר יַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [But Jacob said to him]
On this day
Quote: כַיּ֛וֹם (1)Alternate translation: [Today right now] or [Right now]
sell your birthright to me
Quote: מִכְרָ֥ה & אֶת־בְּכֹֽרָתְךָ֖ לִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Make sure it is clear in your translation that Jacob was offering the stew as payment for Esau’s birthright as the firstborn son. In Hebrew culture the firstborn son inherited twice as much as the rest of the children in the family (Deuteronomy 21:15-17). That information could be put in a footnote so that people understand what Esau was selling for a bowl of stew. Alternate translation: [give your birthright to me in exchange for some stew] or [trade your rights as the firstborn son to me for some stew then I will give you some]
Genesis 25:32
And Esau said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר עֵשָׂ֔ו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Esau said to him]
Behold, I am about to die
Quote: הִנֵּ֛ה אָנֹכִ֥י הוֹלֵ֖ךְ לָמ֑וּת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
Esau is using hyperbole or exaggeration here to emphasize how hungry he is. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: [Listen, I am so hungry that I feel like I am going to die!]
So for what use {is} that to me, a birthright
Quote: וְלָמָּה־זֶּ֥ה לִ֖י בְּכֹרָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Esau uses a rhetorical question to emphasize his point about how hungry he is. Consider whether or not a rhetorical question works well here in your language. Alternate translation: [So how will my birthright benefit me if I die?] or [So my birthright is of no benefit to me right now!]
Genesis 25:33
Swear to me on this day
Quote: הִשָּׁ֤בְעָה לִּי֙ כַּיּ֔וֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See how you translated “swear to me by God” in Gen 21:23. Alternate translation: [First make an oath to me today before God that your rights are now mine!] or [You must first promise to me right now that you give your rights to me]
So he swore to him
Quote: וַיִּשָּׁבַ֖ע ל֑וֹ (1)Make sure the way you translate this clause fits well with what Jacob just said. Alternate translation: [So he vowed to him] or [So Esau made an unbreakable vow to him]
and sold his birthright to Jacob
Quote: וַיִּמְכֹּ֥ר אֶת־בְּכֹרָת֖וֹ לְיַעֲקֹֽב (1)See how you translated “sell your birthright” in verse 31. Also see how Hebrews 12:16 is translated, which refers to the same event. Alternate translation: [that he had sold his rights as the firstborn son to Jacob for the stew] or [that he was selling his firstborn-son-rights to him in exchange for the stew]
Genesis 25:34
Then Jacob gave to Esau bread and lentil stew
Quote: וְיַעֲקֹ֞ב נָתַ֣ן לְעֵשָׂ֗ו לֶ֚חֶם וּנְזִ֣יד עֲדָשִׁ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
Consider again how you translated “stew/soup” in verses 29 and 34. Lentils are small, round, flat, reddish-brown legume seeds that grow inside a pod (similar to peas or beans). If lentils are not known in your area, you could describe them as “a type of legume/bean called lentils.” Alternate translation: [Then Jacob gave Esau some bread and some of the lentil stew] or [Then Jacob gave Esau some of the lentil stew with some bread]
and he ate and drank, and got up and left
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אכַל וַיֵּ֔שְׁתְּ וַיָּ֖קָם וַיֵּלַ֑ךְ (1)Consider what is the most natural way to translate this series of actions that happened quickly one after the other and shows how carelessly Esau treated his birthright. Alternate translation: [and Esau ate, drank, stood up, and left] or [and Esau hurriedly ate the meal and left]
So Esau despised his birthright
Quote: וַיִּ֥בֶז עֵשָׂ֖ו אֶת־הַבְּכֹרָֽה (1)See how you translated birthright in verses 31-33. Alternate translation: [So Esau showed that he did not value his rights as the firstborn son] or [In that way, Esau treated his birthright flippantly as if it had little value]
Genesis 26
Genesis 26:1
Then there was
Quote: וַיְהִ֤י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
Consider what is the best way in your language to begin this new episode.
a famine
Quote: רָעָב֙ (1)See how you translated famine in Gen 12:10. Alternate translation: [another famine] or [another extreme lack of food] or [another time of severe food shortage]
besides the earlier famine that was
Quote: מִלְּבַד֙ הָרָעָ֣ב הָרִאשׁ֔וֹן אֲשֶׁ֥ר הָיָ֖ה (1)Alternate translation: [in addition to the previous one that occurred] or [This was a different famine from the one that had happened years before]
So Isaac went
Quote: וַיֵּ֧לֶךְ יִצְחָ֛ק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
In your translation it should not sound like Isaac went alone to the city of Gerar; the rest of his family lived with him.
to Abimelech, the king of the Philistines, to Gerar
Quote: אֶל־אֲבִימֶּ֥לֶךְ מֶֽלֶךְ־פְּלִשְׁתִּ֖ים גְּרָֽרָה (1)Be consistent here with how you translated “the city of Gerar” in Gen 10:19; 20:1-2 and Philistines in Gen 10:14; 21:32, 34. Alternate translation: [went for help to the Philistine king Abimelech, who lived in the city of Gerar]
Genesis 26:2
Then Yahweh appeared to him
Quote: וַיֵּרָ֤א אֵלָיו֙ יְהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
See how you translated appeared in Gen 12:7. Also consider whether it is more natural in your language to refer to Isaac here with his name or a pronoun. Alternate translation: [Then Yahweh came to Isaac]
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Consider what is the best way in your language to translate this quote margin. Alternate translation: [and said to him] or [and told him]
Do not go down
Quote: אַל־תֵּרֵ֣ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Egypt was lower in elevation and also south of the land of the Philistines. Many translations leave that information implied. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Do not go south] or [Do not travel]
to Egypt
Quote: מִצְרָ֑יְמָה (1)Alternate translation: [to the land of Egypt]
live in the land that I tell you
Quote: שְׁכֹ֣ן בָּאָ֔רֶץ אֲשֶׁ֖ר אֹמַ֥ר אֵלֶֽיךָ (1)Alternate translation: [but rather live in the land wherever I tell you to live] or [but rather live wherever I tell you to live]
Genesis 26:3
Sojourn
Quote: גּ֚וּר (1)See how you translated this term in Gen 12:10 and 19:9. You may need to translate it in slightly different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [You must live for a while] or [Stay temporarily as a foreigner]
and I will be with you
Quote: וְאֶֽהְיֶ֥ה עִמְּךָ֖ (1)This clause means that God will guide, help, and protect Isaac and provide for his needs. Alternate translation: [and I will be right beside you]
and bless you
Quote: וַאֲבָרְכֶ֑ךָּ (1)Alternate translation: [cause you and your family to prosper]
For to you and to your offspring I will give all these lands
Quote: כִּֽי־לְךָ֣ וּֽלְזַרְעֲךָ֗ אֶתֵּן֙ אֶת־כָּל־הָֽאֲרָצֹ֣ת הָאֵ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
Starting here (and continuing through verse 4) Yahweh explains how he will bless Isaac. Begin this sentence in a way that makes that clear in your translation. Alternate translation: [In fact, I will give all the surrounding lands to you and your offspring]
and I will confirm
Quote: וַהֲקִֽמֹתִי֙ (1)Alternate translation: [and I will continue to fulfill]
the oath that I swore to Abraham your father
Quote: אֶת־הַשְּׁבֻעָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר נִשְׁבַּ֖עְתִּי לְאַבְרָהָ֥ם אָבִֽיךָ (1)Consider again how you translated oath in Gen 24:8. It may be necessary to translate this word differently in different contexts. Alternate translation: [the promise that I made to your father Abraham]
Genesis 26:4
And I will multiply
Quote: וְהִרְבֵּיתִ֤י (1)Verse 4 gives the details of the oath that is referred to in verse 3. Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the sentence from verse 3. Alternate translation: [Yes, I will multiply] or [that I will multiply]
your offspring as the stars of
Quote: אֶֽת־זַרְעֲךָ֙ כְּכוֹכְבֵ֣י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 22:17. Alternate translation: [increase the number of your offspring so that they are as numerous as] or [make your offspring as many as] or [give you so many offspring that they will be as numerous as]
as the stars of the heavens
Quote: כְּכוֹכְבֵ֣י הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם (1)Alternate translation: [as the number of stars in the sky]
and I will give
Quote: וְנָתַתִּ֣י (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
to your offspring
Quote: לְזַרְעֲךָ֔ (1)Alternate translation: [to your descendants] or [to them]
all these lands
Quote: אֵ֥ת כָּל־הָאֲרָצֹ֖ת הָאֵ֑ל (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 3.
in your offspring
Quote: בְזַרְעֲךָ֔ (1)See how you translated this phrase and the following clause in Gen 22:18. Alternate translation: [In fact, through your offspring] or [And because of your offspring] or [In fact, by means of your offspring]
And … all the nations of the earth will be blessed
Quote: וְהִתְבָּרֲכ֣וּ & כֹּ֖ל גּוֹיֵ֥י הָאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
Consider what is the best way in your language to translate this passive clause. Alternate translation: [all the people groups on earth will be blessed by me] or [I will bless all the ethnic groups on the earth]
Genesis 26:5
because
Quote: עֵ֕קֶב אֲשֶׁר (1)Verse 5 gives the reason that Yahweh will do everything that he says in verses 3 and 4. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [all because]
Abraham obeyed my voice
Quote: שָׁמַ֥ע אַבְרָהָ֖ם בְּקֹלִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The phrase my voice stands for what Yahweh said to Abraham and also represents Yahweh himself. Alternate translation: [Abraham always did what I told him]
and kept my requirements, my commands, my decrees, and my laws
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמֹר֙ מִשְׁמַרְתִּ֔י מִצְוֺתַ֖י חֻקּוֹתַ֥י וְתוֹרֹתָֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
This clause is another way of saying obeyed my voice (found in the previous clause), and emphasizes that Abraham always obeyed God in everything. Notice that the terms in this clause have much overlap in meaning. Alternate translation: [Yes, he kept all my requirements, including all my commands, decrees, and laws]
Genesis 26:6
So Isaac stayed in Gerar
Quote: וַיֵּ֥שֶׁב יִצְחָ֖ק בִּגְרָֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
In your translation it should not sound like Isaac lived alone; the rest of his family lived with him. Alternate translation: [So Isaac obeyed what God commanded and stayed with his family in the city of Gerar]
Genesis 26:7
Then the men of the place asked about his wife
Quote: וַֽיִּשְׁאֲל֞וּ אַנְשֵׁ֤י הַמָּקוֹם֙ לְאִשְׁתּ֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [After a while the men from that place started asking him about Rebekah] or [When the men from there started asking him about Rebekah]
and he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [he said to them] or [he deceived them by saying]
She {is} my sister
Quote: אֲחֹ֣תִי הִ֑וא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Consider whether it is more natural in your language to use a direct quote or an indirect quote here. Alternate translation: [that she was his sister]
because he was afraid to say, “{She is} my wife
Quote: כִּ֤י יָרֵא֙ לֵאמֹ֣ר אִשְׁתִּ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also see how you handled the previous quote in this sentence. Alternate translation: [He was afraid to say that she was his wife]
He thought,} “Lest the men of the place kill me
Quote: פֶּן־יַֽהַרְגֻ֜נִי אַנְשֵׁ֤י הַמָּקוֹם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
See how you translated the men of the place earlier in this verse. Also consider whether it is better in your language to use a direct or indirect quote here, and see what you did earlier in this verse. Alternate translation: [He thought that the men of that city might kill him] or [He was afraid that the men in that place would kill him]
on account of Rebekah
Quote: עַל־רִבְקָ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [because of Rebekah] or [so that they could take Rebekah]
because she {is} beautiful of appearance
Quote: כִּֽי־טוֹבַ֥ת מַרְאֶ֖ה הִֽיא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it may be better to put this clause first in this verse and say, “Now Rebekah was very beautiful, so the men in that city started asking Isaac about her. Isaac was afraid they might kill him in order to take/have her, so he lied and told them she was his sister.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [because she is very beautiful]
Genesis 26:8
Then it happened, when the days had been long for him there
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י כִּ֣י אָֽרְכוּ־ל֥וֹ שָׁם֙ הַיָּמִ֔ים (1)Alternate translation: [One day when he and his family had been there a long time]
then Abimelech the king of the Philistines looked down
Quote: וַיַּשְׁקֵ֗ף אֲבִימֶ֨לֶךְ֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔ים (1)Alternate translation: [Abimelech who was king over the Philistines looked out] or [King Abimelech looked out]
from a window
Quote: בְּעַ֖ד הַֽחַלּ֑וֹן (1)Alternate translation: [from a window of his house]
and saw that, behold
Quote: וַיַּ֗רְא וְהִנֵּ֤ה (1)In this context, behold means that King Abimelech was surprised at what he saw. Alternate translation: [and was surprised to see]
Isaac was laughing with Rebekah his wife
Quote: יִצְחָק֙ מְצַחֵ֔ק אֵ֖ת רִבְקָ֥ה אִשְׁתּֽוֹ (1)There is a word play here in Hebrew (since Isaac and laughing come from the same root word). Isaac may have been laughing or flirting with Rebekah or physically touching her in an affectionate or intimate way, as a husband would do with his wife. Alternate translation: [that Isaac was flirting with his wife Rebekah]
Genesis 26:9
So Abimelech called for Isaac
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֨א אֲבִימֶ֜לֶךְ לְיִצְחָ֗ק (1)King Abimelech probably sent a servant to tell Isaac to come talk to him. Alternate translation: [So King Abimelech summoned Isaac] or [Then King Abimelech sent someone to bring Isaac to him]
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (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: [and said to him] or [and scolded him by saying]
Behold, she {is} really your wife
Quote: אַ֣ךְ הִנֵּ֤ה אִשְׁתְּךָ֙ הִ֔וא (1)The word “behold” emphasizes what follows it. Consider what is the best way in your language to translate this term in this context. Alternate translation: [It is clear that she is actually your wife!]
So how could you say, ‘She {is} my sister
Quote: וְאֵ֥יךְ אָמַ֖רְתָּ אֲחֹ֣תִי הִ֑וא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded direct quote (She is my sister) as a direct or indirect quote.
And Isaac said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֵלָיו֙ יִצְחָ֔ק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Consider what is the best way in your language to translate this quote margin.
Because I said, ‘I might die because of her
Quote: כִּ֣י אָמַ֔רְתִּי פֶּן־אָמ֖וּת עָלֶֽיהָ (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: [Because I thought that I might die because of her] or [I said that because I was afraid that someone might kill me in order to take her as a wife]
Genesis 26:10
Then Abimelech said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֲבִימֶ֔לֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Consider what is the best way to translate this quote margin in your language to fit this context.
What {is} this you have done to us
Quote: מַה־זֹּ֖את עָשִׂ֣יתָ לָּ֑נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
King Abimelech uses a rhetorical question here to show strong emotion and to emphasize that what Isaac did was wrong and should not have been done. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Why did you treat us this way?] or [You should not have done this to us!]
One of the people might easily have lain with your wife
Quote: כִּ֠מְעַט שָׁכַ֞ב אַחַ֤ד הָעָם֙ אֶת־אִשְׁתֶּ֔ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
See how you translated the idiom “lay with” in Gen 19:32-35. It may be necessary to translate this in slightly different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [Sooner or later, one of the men whom I rule could have slept with your wife] or [... had physical relations with your wife] or [... committed adultery with your wife]
and you would have brought guilt on us
Quote: וְהֵבֵאתָ֥ עָלֵ֖ינוּ אָשָֽׁם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
The pronoun us in this verse refers to King Abimelech and the Philistines whom he ruled; it does not include Isaac. Alternate translation: [with the result that you would have brought punishment on us!]
Genesis 26:11
Then Abimelech ordered all the people by saying
Quote: וַיְצַ֣ו אֲבִימֶ֔לֶךְ אֶת־כָּל־הָעָ֖ם לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Alternate translation: [Then King Abimelech told all his people]
Whoever touches this man or his wife will surely be killed
Quote: הַנֹּגֵ֜עַ בָּאִ֥ישׁ הַזֶּ֛ה וּבְאִשְׁתּ֖וֹ מ֥וֹת יוּמָֽת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
In this context touches is used as an idiom that means “harms in any way.” Many languages have a similar idiom that fits well here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [If anyone harms this man Isaac or his wife in any way, I will surely have that person executed!] or [I will surely execute anyone who harms Isaac or his wife in any way!]
Genesis 26:12
Then Isaac sowed seeds in that land
Quote: וַיִּזְרַ֤ע יִצְחָק֙ בָּאָ֣רֶץ הַהִ֔וא (1)The phrase “sow seeds” means to plant seeds by scattering them by hand on the ground in order to grow crops. If this method of planting is not known in your language area, you could translate this more generally and say, “planted seeds/crops” or “planted large fields with seeds/crops.” Alternate translation: [Isaac planted crops in that land]
and in that year he obtained a hundredfold
Quote: וַיִּמְצָ֛א בַּשָּׁנָ֥ה הַהִ֖וא מֵאָ֣ה שְׁעָרִ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [and during that year he reaped a huge harvest that was a hundred times more than what he had planted] or [and that year he harvested a very large crop]
and Yahweh blessed him
Quote: וַֽיְבָרֲכֵ֖הוּ יְהוָֽה (1)Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here that continues into verse 13. Alternate translation: [because Yahweh blessed him]
Genesis 26:13
And the man became great, and he continued to become even greater
Quote: וַיִּגְדַּ֖ל הָאִ֑ישׁ וַיֵּ֤לֶךְ הָלוֹךְ֙ וְגָדֵ֔ל (1)Alternate translation: [In that way Isaac kept getting more and more wealthy] or [so that he grew richer and richer]
until he was exceedingly great
Quote: עַ֥ד כִּֽי־גָדַ֖ל מְאֹֽד (1)Alternate translation: [until eventually he was very rich]
Genesis 26:14
And he had possession of flocks and possession of herds
Quote: וַֽיְהִי־ל֤וֹ מִקְנֵה־צֹאן֙ וּמִקְנֵ֣ה בָקָ֔ר (1)See how you translated flocks and herds in Gen 24:35. Alternate translation: [He had many flocks of sheep and herds of cattle] or [He had many sheep and cattle]
and many servants
Quote: וַעֲבֻדָּ֖ה רַבָּ֑ה (1)The same Hebrew word is used for both “servant” or “slave.” Slaves and servants were owned by their masters but often they were treated as respected members of the family. An example of this was Abraham’s head servant who was sent to find a wife for Isaac (Gen 24). Keep this information in mind as you translate servants into your language. Alternate translation: [and he also had many slaves] or [He also had many slaves]
So the Philistines envied him
Quote: וַיְקַנְא֥וּ אֹת֖וֹ פְּלִשְׁתִּֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
Alternate translation: [Because of that, the Philistines envied him] or [As a result, the Philistines were envious of him]
Genesis 26:15
and the Philistines stopped up all the wells that the servants of his father had dug in the days of Abraham his father and filled them with dirt
Quote: וְכָל־הַבְּאֵרֹ֗ת אֲשֶׁ֤ר חָֽפְרוּ֙ עַבְדֵ֣י אָבִ֔יו בִּימֵ֖י אַבְרָהָ֣ם אָבִ֑יו סִתְּמ֣וּם פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔ים וַיְמַלְא֖וּם עָפָֽר (1)See how you translated “well” in Gen 21:30-31.
Genesis 26:16
Then Abimelech said to Isaac
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר אֲבִימֶ֖לֶךְ אֶל־יִצְחָ֑ק (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: [Finally King Abimelech said to him]
Go away from us
Quote: לֵ֚ךְ מֵֽעִמָּ֔נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-politeness
Although King Abimelech is asking Isaac to leave, he is still trying to be polite. Alternate translation: [We want you to move somewhere else away from us]
because you are more powerful than we {are
Quote: כִּֽי־עָצַֽמְתָּ־מִמֶּ֖נּוּ מְאֹֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to put this clause first in this quote and say, “You are so powerful that we are afraid of you and want you to move away from us.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [because you are too powerful for us]
Genesis 26:17
So Isaac went from there
Quote: וַיֵּ֥לֶךְ מִשָּׁ֖ם יִצְחָ֑ק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
In your translation it should not sound like Isaac moved by himself from the city of Gerar; his family moved with him. See what you did for similar cases in verses 1 and 6. Alternate translation: [So Isaac moved away from the city of Gerar with his family]
and camped
Quote: וַיִּ֥חַן (1)Alternate translation: [and set up his tents]
in the Valley of Gerar
Quote: בְּנַֽחַל־גְּרָ֖ר (1)Alternate translation: [in the valley near Gerar]
and settled there
Quote: וַיֵּ֥שֶׁב שָֽׁם (1)Alternate translation: [and lived there for a while]
Genesis 26:18
Then Isaac returned and dug out the water wells that they had dug in the days of Abraham his father
Quote: וַיָּ֨שָׁב יִצְחָ֜ק וַיַּחְפֹּ֣ר ׀ אֶת־בְּאֵרֹ֣ת הַמַּ֗יִם אֲשֶׁ֤ר חָֽפְרוּ֙ בִּימֵי֙ אַבְרָהָ֣ם אָבִ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Isaac had his servants re-dig the wells; he did not do that work by himself.
and {that} the Philistines had stopped up after the death of Abraham
Quote: וַיְסַתְּמ֣וּם פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔ים אַחֲרֵ֖י מ֣וֹת אַבְרָהָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Be consistent with how you spelled or translated Philistines in the book of Genesis. See Gen 10:14; 21:32, 34; 26:1, 8, 14-15, 18. Alternate translation: [that the Philistines had plugged up with dirt after Abraham had died]
and he called them names like the names
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֤א לָהֶן֙ שֵׁמ֔וֹת כַּשֵּׁמֹ֕ת (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [He gave those wells the same names] or [He named the wells with the same names]
that his father had called them
Quote: אֲשֶׁר־קָרָ֥א לָהֶ֖ן אָבִֽיו (1)Alternate translation: [that his father had named them]
Genesis 26:19
and found a well of living water there
Quote: וַיִּ֨מְצְאוּ־שָׁ֔ם בְּאֵ֖ר מַ֥יִם חַיִּֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The phrase living water is an idiom that means the well was spring fed and was a source of continually flowing, fresh water to drink. Alternate translation: [and struck a spring of flowing water there]
Genesis 26:20
The water {belongs} to us
Quote: לָ֣נוּ הַמָּ֑יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Consider whether it is best in your language to use a direct quote or an indirect quote here. Alternate translation: [That water is ours!] or [that the well belonged to them] or [that they owned that water]
So he called the name of the well
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֤א שֵֽׁם־הַבְּאֵר֙ (1)Alternate translation: [So Isaac named that well]
Esek
Quote: עֵ֔שֶׂק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
If you include the meaning of this well’s name in your translation text or in a footnote, make sure it fits with how you translate disputed in the next clause. This word is different from the word for quarreled used earlier in verse 20, but it has the same meaning.
because they disputed with him
Quote: כִּ֥י הִֽתְעַשְּׂק֖וּ עִמּֽוֹ (1)The herdsmen from Gerar disputed with Isaac indirectly (verse 20b) when they quarreled with his herdsmen (verse 20a). Make sure in your translation that the two halves of this verse do not contradict each other. Alternate translation: [because they disputed with his herdsmen about it]
Genesis 26:21
but they quarreled over it too
Quote: וַיָּרִ֖יבוּ גַּם־עָלֶ֑יהָ (1)Be consistent here with how you translated quarreled in the first part of verse 20. Alternate translation: [but once again the herdsmen from Gerar disputed with them about that well too]
so he called its name
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמָ֖הּ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [so he named it] or [So he named the well]
Genesis 26:22
Then he moved from there
Quote: וַיַּעְתֵּ֣ק מִשָּׁ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
In your translation it should not sound like Isaac moved by himself.
and he dug
Quote: וַיַּחְפֹּר֙ (1)See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 18. Alternate translation: [and he had his men dig] or [and his servants dug]
another well
Quote: בְּאֵ֣ר אַחֶ֔רֶת (1)Alternate translation: [a new well]
and they did not quarrel over it
Quote: וְלֹ֥א רָב֖וּ עָלֶ֑יהָ (1)Alternate translation: [but this time the herdsmen of Gerar did not quarrel about it] or [This time Gerar’s herdsmen did not quarrel about it]
so he called its name
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֤א שְׁמָהּ֙ (1)See how you translated this clause in verses 20 and 21. Alternate translation: [so he named the well] or [so he gave it the name]
Rehoboth
Quote: רְחֹב֔וֹת (1)Be consistent here with how you spelled Rehoboth in Gen 10:11.
has made space for us
Quote: הִרְחִ֧יב & לָ֖נוּ (1)Alternate translation: [has provided room for us] or [given my family enough room to live]
and we will be fruitful in the land
Quote: וּפָרִ֥ינוּ בָאָֽרֶץ (1)Alternate translation: [so that we will flourish here in this land]
Genesis 26:23
Then from there he went up to Beersheba
Quote: וַיַּ֥עַל מִשָּׁ֖ם בְּאֵ֥ר שָֽׁבַע (1)The word up refers to the fact that Beersheba is higher in elevation from where they were; it is also south in direction. Some translations leave that information implied. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [From there he and his family moved south to the city of Beersheba] or [One day he and his family moved from there to the city of Beersheba]
Genesis 26:24
And Yahweh appeared to him during that night and said
Quote: וַיֵּרָ֨א אֵלָ֤יו יְהוָה֙ בַּלַּ֣יְלָה הַה֔וּא וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)See how you translated Yahweh appeared to him in verse 2. Alternate translation: [That night Yahweh came to him and said to him]
I {am} the God of Abraham your father
Quote: אָנֹכִ֕י אֱלֹהֵ֖י אַבְרָהָ֣ם אָבִ֑יךָ (1)Alternate translation: [I am the God whom your father Abraham worships] or [I am the God who takes care of your father Abraham]
Do not be afraid, because I {am} with you
Quote: אַל־תִּירָא֙ כִּֽי־אִתְּךָ֣ אָנֹ֔כִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Some languages can do as the Hebrew text does and put the result clause (“do not be afraid”) before the reason (I am with you). Other languages prefer to put the reason before the result. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [I will always be with you, so do not be afraid]
And I will bless you
Quote: וּבֵֽרַכְתִּ֨יךָ֙ (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 3. Alternate translation: [I will prosper you]
and multiply your offspring
Quote: וְהִרְבֵּיתִ֣י אֶֽת־זַרְעֲךָ֔ (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 4. Alternate translation: [and multiply the number of your offspring] or [and make your offspring numerous] or [and give you many offspring]
for the sake of
Quote: בַּעֲב֖וּר (1)Alternate translation: [because of my promise to] or [in order to keep my promise to]
Abraham my servant
Quote: אַבְרָהָ֥ם עַבְדִּֽי (1)Alternate translation: [my servant Abraham]
Genesis 26:25
Then he built an altar there
Quote: וַיִּ֧בֶן שָׁ֣ם מִזְבֵּ֗חַ (1)See how you translated altar in Gen 22:9. Alternate translation: [Then Isaac built an altar there at Beersheba]
and called on the name of Yahweh
Quote: וַיִּקְרָא֙ בְּשֵׁ֣ם יְהוָ֔ה (1)Consider again how you translated the idiom called on the name of Yahweh in the book of Genesis. See Gen 4:26, 12:8, 13:4, 21:33, 26:25, and see the note about this at 4:26. Alternate translation: [and offered sacrifices on it to Yahweh as he worshiped him by name]
And he pitched his tents there
Quote: וַיֶּט־שָׁ֖ם אָהֳל֑וֹ (1)See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 17. Alternate translation: [He also set up his camp there]
and the servants of Isaac dug a well there
Quote: וַיִּכְרוּ־שָׁ֥ם עַבְדֵי־יִצְחָ֖ק בְּאֵֽר (1)Notice that they did not finish digging this well until verse 32. Keep that in mind as you translate this clause.
Genesis 26:26
Then Abimelech came to him from Gerar
Quote: וַאֲבִימֶ֕לֶךְ הָלַ֥ךְ אֵלָ֖יו מִגְּרָ֑ר (1)Alternate translation: [Then King Abimelech came to him from the city of Gerar]
and Ahuzzath his friend
Quote: וַאֲחֻזַּת֙ מֵֽרֵעֵ֔הוּ (1)King Abimelech’s friend Ahuzzath was probably his adviser.
and Phicol the commander of his army
Quote: וּפִיכֹ֖ל שַׂר־צְבָאֽוֹ (1)See how you translated this phrase in Gen 21:22, 32. Alternate translation: [and his army captain Phicol]
Genesis 26:27
Why have you come to me
Quote: מַדּ֖וּעַ בָּאתֶ֣ם אֵלָ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Isaac probably wants to know why King Abimelech and his men are there, but this may also be a rhetorical question that shows his strong emotion. Alternate translation: [Why did you come here]
since you hate me
Quote: וְאַתֶּם֙ שְׂנֵאתֶ֣ם אֹתִ֔י (1)Alternate translation: [especially since you have treated me hatefully] or [especially since you have been hateful toward me]
and you sent me away from you
Quote: וַתְּשַׁלְּח֖וּנִי מֵאִתְּכֶֽם (1)Alternate translation: [and forced me to go away from you!]
Genesis 26:28
And they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֗וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [They replied]
We have clearly seen
Quote: רָא֣וֹ רָאִינוּ֮ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
Make sure your translation of the pronoun we does not include Isaac here. Alternate translation: [It is very clear to us]
that Yahweh has been with you
Quote: כִּֽי־הָיָ֣ה יְהוָ֣ה ׀ עִמָּךְ֒ (1)See how you translated a similar phrase in verses 3 and 24. Alternate translation: [that Yahweh is with you and prospering you]
so we said
Quote: וַנֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Alternate translation: [so we said to each other] or [so we decided]
There should be an oath between us’—between us and you
Quote: תְּהִ֨י נָ֥א אָלָ֛ה בֵּינוֹתֵ֖ינוּ בֵּינֵ֣ינוּ וּבֵינֶ֑ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
In the Hebrew text, the first us in this sentence includes Isaac, but the second us excludes him. Notice that in the first two alternate translations, the pronouns us and we exclude him, but in the third alternate, the pronoun we includes him. Alternate translation: [that there should be an vow between us and you] or [that we should make a vow to each other]
So let us cut a covenant
Quote: וְנִכְרְתָ֥ה בְרִ֖ית (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
See how you translated cut a covenant in Gen 21:27, 32. Notice that the pronoun us in this phrase either excludes Isaac or includes him, depending on whether you use with you or “with each other” for the following phrase. Alternate translation: [So please let us make a peace agreement]
with you
Quote: עִמָּךְ֒ (1)Alternate translation: [with each other]
Genesis 26:29
that you will not do evil against us
Quote: אִם־תַּעֲשֵׂ֨ה עִמָּ֜נוּ רָעָ֗ה (1)Verse 29 specifies the details of the covenant or treaty that they want Isaac to vow or promise.
just as we did not touch you
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁר֙ לֹ֣א נְגַֽעֲנ֔וּךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated touch or “harm” in verse 11. Alternate translation: [just as we never harmed you in any way]
and just as we did only good to you
Quote: וְכַאֲשֶׁ֨ר עָשִׂ֤ינוּ עִמְּךָ֙ רַק־ט֔וֹב (1)Alternate translation: [but only treated you kindly]
and sent you away in peace
Quote: וַנְּשַׁלֵּֽחֲךָ֖ בְּשָׁל֑וֹם (1)Alternate translation: [and sent you away peacefully] or [and in a peaceful manner asked you to leave]
Now you are blessed by Yahweh
Quote: אַתָּ֥ה עַתָּ֖ה בְּר֥וּךְ יְהוָֽה (1)Alternate translation: [Now because of that, Yahweh has greatly prospered you] or [As a result, Yahweh has now greatly prospered you]
Genesis 26:30
and they ate and drank
Quote: וַיֹּאכְל֖וּ וַיִּשְׁתּֽוּ (1)In your translation it should not sound like the feast was only for King Abimelech and his men; Isaac ate with them.
Genesis 26:31
Then they got up early in the morning
Quote: וַיַּשְׁכִּ֣ימוּ בַבֹּ֔קֶר (1)See how you translated got up early in the morning in Gen 20:8; 21:14, 22:3.
and swore to each other
Quote: וַיִּשָּׁבְע֖וּ אִ֣ישׁ לְאָחִ֑יו (1)See how you translated swore in Gen 25:33. Also, if you make the implied information explicit, it should match the way you translate “covenant” or “treaty” in verse 28. Alternate translation: [and made unbreakable oaths to each other to keep their covenant] or [and made oaths to one another that they would keep their treaty]
Then Isaac sent them on their way
Quote: וַיְשַׁלְּחֵ֣ם יִצְחָ֔ק (1)Alternate translation: [Then Isaac told them goodbye]
and they left from him in peace
Quote: וַיֵּלְכ֥וּ מֵאִתּ֖וֹ בְּשָׁלֽוֹם (1)Alternate translation: [and they left him on peaceful terms and returned home]
Genesis 26:32
Then it happened on that day
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י ׀ בַּיּ֣וֹם הַה֗וּא (1)Alternate translation: [On that same day] or [Later that same day]
about the matter of the well that they had dug
Quote: עַל־אֹד֥וֹת הַבְּאֵ֖ר אֲשֶׁ֣ר חָפָ֑רוּ (1)This is the same well that Isaac’s servants started digging in verse 25.
and said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמְרוּ ל֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Consider what is the best way to translate this quote margin in your language.
We have found water
Quote: מָצָ֥אנוּ מָֽיִם (1)See how you translated found in verse 19. Alternate translation: [We have reached water!]
Genesis 26:33
So he called it Shibah
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א אֹתָ֖הּ שִׁבְעָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The name of this well can be spelled Shibah or “Shebah.”
the name of the city {is} Beersheba to this day
Quote: שֵׁם־הָעִיר֙ בְּאֵ֣ר שֶׁ֔בַע עַ֖ד הַיּ֥וֹם הַזֶּֽה (1)See how you translated Beersheba and its meaning in Gen 21:31.
Genesis 26:34
And Esau was a son of forty years
Quote: וַיְהִ֤י עֵשָׂו֙ בֶּן־אַרְבָּעִ֣ים שָׁנָ֔ה (1)Consider again how you translated “a son of … years” in the book of Genesis. See 5:32; 11:10; 12:4; 16:16; 17:1, 17, 24-25; 25:20-21 and 26:34. Alternate translation: [Now Esau was 40 years old, and] or [When Esau was 40 years old]
and he took {as} a wife Judith the daughter of Beeri the Hittite, and Basemath the daughter of Elon the Hittite
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֤ח אִשָּׁה֙ אֶת־יְהוּדִ֔ית בַּת־בְּאֵרִ֖י הַֽחִתִּ֑י וְאֶת־בָּ֣שְׂמַ֔ת בַּת־אֵילֹ֖ן הַֽחִתִּֽי (1)Make sure it is clear in your translation that Basemath was Esau’s second wife, not Beeri’s wife. Alternate translation: [he married a woman named Judith, who was the daughter of a Hittite man named Beeri, and he also married a woman named Basemath, who was the daughter of a Hittite man named Elon]
Genesis 26:35
And they were a grief of mind to Isaac and Rebekah
Quote: וַתִּהְיֶ֖יןָ מֹ֣רַת ר֑וּחַ לְיִצְחָ֖ק וּלְרִבְקָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Alternate translation: [Those foreign women caused Isaac and Rebekah to be very distressed] or [Isaac and Rebekah were very upset that their son had married foreign women rather than a woman from their own religion and people group]
Genesis 27
Genesis 27:1
Then it happened, when
Quote: וַיְהִי֙ כִּֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
The events in chapter 27 happened about 23 years after the end of chapter 26. Make sure your translation begins this verse in a way that fits with that fact. Alternate translation: [Now when]
Isaac was old
Quote: זָקֵ֣ן יִצְחָ֔ק (1)Alternate translation: [Isaac was very old]
and his eyes were too dim to see
Quote: וַתִּכְהֶ֥יןָ עֵינָ֖יו מֵרְאֹ֑ת (1)Isaac was either totally blind or so blind that he could not recognize people anymore (See: verses 18-27, 32-33). Alternate translation: [and his eyes were so weak that he could not see] or [and he was almost blind]
then he called
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֞א (1)Isaac probably told a servant to go and tell Esau to come to him. Alternate translation: [he called for] or [he summoned]
And he said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר אֵלָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Consider what is the best way in your language to translate this quote margin. Alternate translation: [Esau replied]
Behold me
Quote: הִנֵּֽנִי (1)See how you translated this phrase in Gen 22:1,7,11. Alternate translation: [Here I am] or [Yes, sir what is it?]
Genesis 27:2
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Consider what is the best way in your language to translate this quote margin.
Behold, please
Quote: הִנֵּה־נָ֖א (1)Alternate translation: [Listen carefully, please:] or [Please listen carefully:]
I am old
Quote: זָקַ֑נְתִּי (1)See how you translated old or “an old man” in verse 1. Alternate translation: [I am very old]
I do not know the day of my death
Quote: לֹ֥א יָדַ֖עְתִּי י֥וֹם מוֹתִֽי (1)Alternate translation: [and I might die soon] or [and I might not live much longer]
Genesis 27:3
please take your weapons, your quiver, and your bow
Quote: שָׂא־נָ֣א כֵלֶ֔יךָ תֶּלְיְךָ֖ וְקַשְׁתֶּ֑ךָ (1)Consider what is the most natural way to refer to a bow and arrows in your language. Alternate translation: [take your hunting gear, your quiver of arrows, and your bow] or [take your bow and arrows]
and go out
Quote: וְצֵא֙ (1)Alternate translation: [then go out]
in} the field
Quote: הַשָּׂדֶ֔ה (1)See how you translated the field in Gen 25:27. Alternate translation: [to the fields] or [to the open country]
and hunt game for me
Quote: וְצ֥וּדָה לִּ֖י צידה (1)See how you translated game in Gen 25:28. Alternate translation: [and hunt some wild animal meat for me] or [and go hunting for me]
Genesis 27:4
Then prepare
Quote: וַעֲשֵׂה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
For some languages it may be necessary to make explicit more of the steps that Esau needs to take to prepare the meal, so that it does not sound like the animal would be eaten alive or uncooked. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Then use the meat to cook] or [Next butcher the deer and cook]
tasty food for me
Quote: לִ֨י מַטְעַמִּ֜ים (1)Alternate translation: [some tasty food for me] or [a tasty meal for me]
such as I love
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר אָהַ֛בְתִּי (1)Alternate translation: [the kind I like best] or [just the way that I like it]
my soul can bless you before I die
Quote: תְּבָרֶכְךָ֥ נַפְשִׁ֖י בְּטֶ֥רֶם אָמֽוּת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Isaac uses the phrase my soul to refer to himself. Alternate translation: [before I die I can ask God to prosper you]
Genesis 27:5
And Rebekah was listening while Isaac spoke to Esau his son
Quote: וְרִבְקָ֣ה שֹׁמַ֔עַת בְּדַבֵּ֣ר יִצְחָ֔ק אֶל־עֵשָׂ֖ו בְּנ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
The phrase his son probably recalls the fact that Esau was Isaac’s favorite son (Gen 25:28). However make sure that your translation of this phrase does not sound like Esau was not also Rebekah’s son. Alternate translation: [Rebekah overheard what Isaac said to their son Esau] or [Now while Isaac was speaking to his son Esau, Rebekah was listening]
Then Esau went {to} the field to hunt game to bring it back
Quote: וַיֵּ֤לֶךְ עֵשָׂו֙ הַשָּׂדֶ֔ה לָצ֥וּד צַ֖יִד לְהָבִֽיא (1)Consider whether it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here that continues into verse 6. Also see how you translated the field and hunt game in verse 3. Alternate translation: [So after Esau went out to the country to get wild animal meat] or [So after Esau had left to go hunting in the open country]
Genesis 27:6
Then Rebekah said to Jacob her son, saying
Quote: וְרִבְקָה֙ אָֽמְרָ֔ה אֶל־יַעֲקֹ֥ב בְּנָ֖הּ לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)The phrase her son probably recalls the fact that Jacob was Rebekah’s favorite son (Gen 25:28). See how you translated “his son” in verse 5. Alternate translation: [Rebekah said to their son Jacob]
Behold
Quote: הִנֵּ֤ה (1)Alternate translation: [Listen to this:]
I heard your father
Quote: שָׁמַ֨עְתִּי֙ אֶת־אָבִ֔יךָ (1)Alternate translation: [I just heard your father]
speaking to Esau your brother, saying
Quote: מְדַבֵּ֛ר אֶל־עֵשָׂ֥ו אָחִ֖יךָ לֵאמֹֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
Some languages have a special term for “older brother” that is used here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [say to your brother Esau]
Genesis 27:7
Bring game for me
Quote: הָבִ֨יאָה לִּ֥י צַ֛יִד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Consider whether it is best in your language to translate Rebekah’s quote of Isaac in verse 7 as a direct quote or an indirect quote. Alternate translation: [to bring him some wild deer meat]
and prepare tasty food for me so that I can eat it
Quote: וַעֲשֵׂה־לִ֥י מַטְעַמִּ֖ים וְאֹכֵ֑לָה (1)See how you translated this clause in verse 4. Alternate translation: [and use it to cook a tasty meal for him to eat]
and I can bless you in the presence of Yahweh, before my death
Quote: וַאֲבָרֶכְכָ֛ה לִפְנֵ֥י יְהוָ֖ה לִפְנֵ֥י מוֹתִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Be consistent in translating the parts of verse 7 as either a direct quote (using first person pronouns) or an indirect quote (using third person pronouns). Alternate translation: [Then before he dies, he will ask Yahweh to bless Esau]
Genesis 27:8
So now, my son
Quote: וְעַתָּ֥ה בְנִ֖י (1)See how you translated So now in verse 3. Also, make sure it is clear that Rebekah is no longer quoting Isaac’s words (whether directly or indirectly). If necessary, you could begin this verse with: “Rebekah continued,” or “Then Rebekah said to Jacob,” Alternate translation: [Now son]
listen to my voice
Quote: שְׁמַ֣ע בְּקֹלִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated my voice in Gen 26:5.
to what I command you
Quote: לַאֲשֶׁ֥ר אֲנִ֖י מְצַוָּ֥ה אֹתָֽךְ (1)Alternate translation: [and obey me]
Genesis 27:9
Please go to the flock
Quote: לֶךְ־נָא֙ אֶל־הַצֹּ֔אן (1)Alternate translation: [Go to our flock of goats]
and bring to me from there
Quote: וְקַֽח־לִ֣י מִשָּׁ֗ם (1)Alternate translation: [and bring me]
two good kids of the goats
Quote: שְׁנֵ֛י גְּדָיֵ֥י עִזִּ֖ים טֹבִ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [two fine kid goats] or [two of our best kid goats]
so that I will prepare from them
Quote: וְאֶֽעֱשֶׂ֨ה אֹתָ֧ם (1)Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [so that I can use the meat from them to cook] or [I will use their meat to cook]
tasty food for your father
Quote: מַטְעַמִּ֛ים לְאָבִ֖יךָ (1)See how you translated “prepare some tasty food for” in verses 4 and 7. Alternate translation: [some savory food for your father] or [a tasty meal for your father]
such as he loves
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר אָהֵֽב (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 4. Alternate translation: [the kind he likes best]
Genesis 27:10
Then you take it to your father
Quote: וְהֵבֵאתָ֥ לְאָבִ֖יךָ (1)Alternate translation: [Then you can take the food to your father]
and he will eat {it}, so that he will bless you before his death
Quote: וְאָכָ֑ל בַּעֲבֻ֛ר אֲשֶׁ֥ר יְבָרֶכְךָ֖ לִפְנֵ֥י מוֹתֽוֹ (1)See how you translated will bless in verses 4 and 7. Alternate translation: [so that he will eat it, and then before he dies, he will ask Yahweh to prosper you]
Genesis 27:11
Then Jacob said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then Jacob replied]
to Rebekah his mother
Quote: אֶל־רִבְקָ֖ה אִמּ֑וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [to her]
Behold
Quote: הֵ֣ן (1)Alternate translation: [Look] or [Remember that]
Esau my brother
Quote: עֵשָׂ֤ו אָחִי֙ (1)See how you translated brother in verse 11.
is} a hairy man
Quote: אִ֣ישׁ שָׂעִ֔ר (1)See how you talked about Esau’s hairy body in Gen 25:25. Alternate translation: [has a lot of hair on his body]
but I {am} a smooth man
Quote: וְאָנֹכִ֖י אִ֥ישׁ חָלָֽק (1)Alternate translation: [but I have non-hairy skin] or [but I am not hairy]
Genesis 27:12
Suppose
Quote: אוּלַ֤י (1)Alternate translation: [What would happen if] or [I am afraid of what will happen if]
my father touches me
Quote: יְמֻשֵּׁ֨נִי֙ אָבִ֔י (1)If this sentence is translated as a statement, you could end it with a period or an exclamation point to show that Jacob is worried. Alternate translation: [my father feels my arms]
Then I will be in his eyes as a deceiver
Quote: וְהָיִ֥יתִי בְעֵינָ֖יו כִּמְתַעְתֵּ֑עַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
Make sure that your translation of verse 12 describes a hypothetical situation, not something that had happened yet. Some languages have a special verb form (such as “would”) to communicate this. Alternate translation: [Certainly he would recognize me and know that I am trying to trick him]
and I will bring a curse on me and not a blessing
Quote: וְהֵבֵאתִ֥י עָלַ֛י קְלָלָ֖ה וְלֹ֥א בְרָכָֽה (1)Alternate translation: [Then I would cause myself to be cursed instead of blessed]
Genesis 27:13
But his mother said to him
Quote: וַתֹּ֤אמֶר לוֹ֙ אִמּ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [But his mother responded]
Let your curse be on me, my son
Quote: עָלַ֥י קִלְלָתְךָ֖ בְּנִ֑י (1)Make sure that your translation of your curse refers to the curse Jacob fears his father might say against him and does not sound like Jacob cursed someone. Also, for some languages it is more natural to put an address like my son first in this quote. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [My son, if your father curses you, may that curse fall on me and not on you]
Just listen to my voice
Quote: אַ֛ךְ שְׁמַ֥ע בְּקֹלִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Alternate translation: [Please just do what I say]
and go get {them} for me
Quote: וְלֵ֥ךְ קַֽח־לִֽי (1)Alternate translation: [and go and bring two goats to me]
Genesis 27:14
So he went
Quote: וַיֵּ֨לֶךְ֙ (1)Alternate translation: [So Jacob went to their flock]
and got {them
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֔ח (1)Alternate translation: [and got the goats] or [chose two goats]
and brought {them} to his mother
Quote: וַיָּבֵ֖א לְאִמּ֑וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [and brought them to her]
Then his mother prepared
Quote: וַתַּ֤עַשׂ אִמּוֹ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
In some languages it is necessary to specify that the animal was killed and cut up before being cooked. Do what is best in your language. See what you did for a similar case in verse 4. Alternate translation: [Then she had them butchered and she made] or [Then she used the butchered meat from the goats to cook]
tasty food
Quote: מַטְעַמִּ֔ים (1)See how you translated this phrase in verses 4, 7 and 9. Alternate translation: [some savory food] or [a tasty meal]
such as his father loved
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֖ר אָהֵ֥ב אָבִֽיו (1)See how you translated a similar phrase in verses 4 and 9. Alternate translation: [just the way that his father liked it]
Genesis 27:15
Then Rebekah took
Quote: וַתִּקַּ֣ח רִ֠בְקָה (1)Alternate translation: [She also took out]
and put them on Jacob her younger son
Quote: וַתַּלְבֵּ֥שׁ אֶֽת־יַעֲקֹ֖ב בְּנָ֥הּ הַקָּטָֽן (1)Your translation should not sound like Rebekah dressed Jacob herself as if he were a little child. She probably gave him the clothes and asked him to put them on himself. Alternate translation: [and gave them to her younger son Jacob to put on]
Genesis 27:16
And she put the skins of the kid goats over his hands and over
Quote: וְאֵ֗ת עֹרֹת֙ גְּדָיֵ֣י הָֽעִזִּ֔ים הִלְבִּ֖ישָׁה עַל־יָדָ֑יו וְעַ֖ל (1)See how you translated skins in Gen 3:21. The skins still had the goat hair or fur on them.
the smooth part of his neck
Quote: חֶלְקַ֥ת צַוָּארָֽיו (1)See how you translated smooth in verse 11. Alternate translation: [the non-hairy part of his neck]
Genesis 27:17
Then she gave the tasty food and the bread that she had made into the hand{s} of Jacob her son
Quote: וַתִּתֵּ֧ן אֶת־הַמַּטְעַמִּ֛ים וְאֶת־הַלֶּ֖חֶם אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָשָׂ֑תָה בְּיַ֖ד יַעֲקֹ֥ב בְּנָֽהּ (1)Alternate translation: [Then Rebekah gave to him the savory goat meat dish and some bread she had made] or [Then she gave the tasty food to him, including some bread that she had made]
Genesis 27:18
and he went to his father
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֥א אֶל־אָבִ֖יו (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [Jacob took the meal to his father]
and said, “My father.” And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אָבִ֑י וַיֹּ֣אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
His father answered/replied, “
Behold me. Who {are} you, my son
Quote: הִנֶּ֔נִּי מִ֥י אַתָּ֖ה בְּנִֽי (1)See how you translated Behold me in verse 1. It may be necessary to translate this in a different way here because the context is different. Alternate translation: [Here I am, my son. Who are you?] or [Yes? Which one of my sons are you?]
Genesis 27:19
Then Jacob said to his father
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יַעֲקֹ֜ב אֶל־אָבִ֗יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Jacob lied to his father]
I {am} Esau, your firstborn
Quote: אָנֹכִי֙ עֵשָׂ֣ו בְּכֹרֶ֔ךָ (1)The term firstborn is a key term in the Bible because the firstborn son had special rights, including the fact that he inherited his father’s authority and the largest portion of his father’s estate. Jacob is claiming those rights by using this term. See how you translated this term in Gen 25:13. Alternate translation: [I am Esau, your firstborn son]
I have done as you told me
Quote: עָשִׂ֕יתִי כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר דִּבַּ֖רְתָּ אֵלָ֑י (1)Alternate translation: [I have done what you told me to do]
Please get up, sit and eat some of my game
Quote: קֽוּם־נָ֣א שְׁבָ֗ה וְאָכְלָה֙ מִצֵּידִ֔י (1)See how you translated “game meat” in verses 3, 5 and 7. Alternate translation: [So now, please sit up and eat some of the game meat that I have prepared for you]
so that your soul will bless me
Quote: בַּעֲב֖וּר תְּבָרֲכַ֥נִּי נַפְשֶֽׁךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
See how you translated a similar clause in verse 4.
Genesis 27:20
How {is} this you were quick to find {it}, my son
Quote: מַה־זֶּ֛ה מִהַ֥רְתָּ לִמְצֹ֖א בְּנִ֑י (1)Consider whether it is more natural in your language to put the address my son first in this quote. Alternate translation: [How were you able to get the animal so quickly, my son?]
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Alternate translation: [Jacob answered him]
Because Yahweh your God
Quote: כִּ֥י & יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֶ֖יךָ (1)Alternate translation: [I was successful because Yahweh, the God you worship]
caused {it} to happen before me
Quote: הִקְרָ֛ה & לְפָנָֽי (1)See how you translated this clause in Gen 24:12. Alternate translation: [helped me to hunt it] or [brought it to me]
Genesis 27:21
Then Isaac said to Jacob
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יִצְחָק֙ אֶֽל־יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Alternate translation: [But Isaac said to him]
Please come close, so that I can touch you, my son
Quote: גְּשָׁה־נָּ֥א וַאֲמֻֽשְׁךָ֖ בְּנִ֑י (1)Consider whether it is more natural in your language to put the address my son first or earlier in this quote. Also see what you did in verses 13 and 20. Alternate translation: [Please come close to me, my son, so that I can touch you] or [My son, please come here so that I can touch you]
and know} whether you are really my son Esau or not
Quote: הַֽאַתָּ֥ה זֶ֛ה בְּנִ֥י עֵשָׂ֖ו אִם־לֹֽא (1)Consider whether it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [and be sure that you are really my son Esau] or [I want to know for sure whether or not you really are my son Esau]
Genesis 27:22
So Jacob went close to Isaac his father
Quote: וַיִּגַּ֧שׁ יַעֲקֹ֛ב אֶל־יִצְחָ֥ק אָבִ֖יו (1)Alternate translation: [Then Jacob came close to his father Isaac]
and he touched him
Quote: וַיְמֻשֵּׁ֑הוּ (1)See how you translated “touch” or “feel” in verses 12 and 21. Alternate translation: [and his father touched him] or [and his father felt his arms]
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Alternate translation: [and said to himself]
The voice {is} the voice of Jacob
Quote: הַקֹּל֙ ק֣וֹל יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Alternate translation: [Hmm, he talks like Jacob]
but the hands {are} the hands of Esau
Quote: וְהַיָּדַ֖יִם יְדֵ֥י עֵשָֽׂו (1)In Hebrew, the word for “hand” is the same word as for “arm.” Isaac probably felt Esau’s hands and arms. Alternate translation: [but he feels like Esau]
Genesis 27:23
So he did not recognize him, because his hands were hairy like the hands of Esau his brother
Quote: וְלֹ֣א הִכִּיר֔וֹ כִּֽי־הָי֣וּ יָדָ֗יו כִּידֵ֛י עֵשָׂ֥ו אָחִ֖יו שְׂעִרֹ֑ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Be consistent here with how you translated hands or “arms” in verses 16 and 22. Also consider whether it is more natural in your language to change the original order of clauses in this sentence, as in the second alternate translation above.
and he was about to bless him
Quote: וַֽיְבָרְכֵֽהוּ (1)Consider whether it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here that continues into verse 24. Alternate translation: [Then Isaac was prepared to bless him] or [Isaac was getting ready to bless him]
Genesis 27:24
But he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Alternate translation: [But he still was not certain, so he asked him] or [but first he wanted to be completely certain, so he asked him]
Are} you really my son Esau
Quote: אַתָּ֥ה זֶ֖ה בְּנִ֣י עֵשָׂ֑ו (1)Alternate translation: [Are you truly my son Esau?]
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Jacob answered him]
I {am
Quote: אָֽנִי (1)Alternate translation: [Yes, I am Esau] or [Yes, Father I am]
Genesis 27:25
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [So his father said to him]
Bring {the food} to me
Quote: הַגִּ֤שָׁה לִּי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-politeness
Your translation of Isaac’s request should sound polite, not rude or demanding. It should also not sound like he was begging or pleading. Alternate translation: [Please bring me the food]
and I will eat some of my son’s game, so that my soul will bless you
Quote: וְאֹֽכְלָה֙ מִצֵּ֣יד בְּנִ֔י לְמַ֥עַן תְּבָֽרֶכְךָ֖ נַפְשִׁ֑י (1)See how you translated a similar clause in verse 19. Alternate translation: [so that I can eat some of your wild animal meat and bless you]
Then he brought {it} to him, and he ate
Quote: וַיַּגֶּשׁ־לוֹ֙ וַיֹּאכַ֔ל (1)Alternate translation: [So Jacob brought the meal to his father, and he ate it]
and he brought wine to him, and he drank
Quote: וַיָּ֧בֵא ל֦וֹ יַ֖יִן וַיֵּֽשְׁתְּ (1)Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language. Also, see how you translated wine in Gen 19:32-35. Alternate translation: [Jacob also brought him wine, and he drank it]
Genesis 27:26
Then Isaac his father said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר אֵלָ֖יו יִצְחָ֣ק אָבִ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then Isaac said to him]
Please come close
Quote: גְּשָׁה־נָּ֥א (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 21. Alternate translation: [Come near to me]
and kiss me, my son
Quote: וּשְׁקָה־לִּ֖י בְּנִֽי (1)It was a Hebrew custom for relatives and close friends to greet each other with a kiss on each cheek. Also consider whether it is more natural in your language to put the address my son first in this quote.
Genesis 27:27
So he went close
Quote: וַיִּגַּשׁ֙ (1)See how you translated went close in verse 22. Alternate translation: [Then Jacob came close to his father]
and kissed him
Quote: וַיִּשַּׁק־ל֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [and kissed him on his cheek]
so he blessed him
Quote: וַֽיְבָרֲכֵ֑הוּ (1)Alternate translation: [Then he blessed him]
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Alternate translation: [by saying to him] or [He said to him]
See, the smell of my son is
Quote: רְאֵה֙ רֵ֣יחַ בְּנִ֔י (1)Some translations put the words of Isaac’s blessing in poetry format (beginning here and through verse 29). Be consistent here with how your translation team decides to format passages like this. Alternate translation: [Ahh, my son smells]
like the smell of a field
Quote: כְּרֵ֣יחַ שָׂדֶ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [wonderful like the fragrance of a green field] or [wonderful the way a green field smells]
that Yahweh has blessed
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר בֵּרֲכ֖וֹ יְהוָֽה (1)Alternate translation: [that Yahweh has caused to be very productive!]
Genesis 27:28
And may God give to you
Quote: וְיִֽתֶּן־לְךָ֙ הָאֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
In the Hebrew text, you is singular in verses 28-29 and refers to both Jacob and his descendants. If necessary, you could make that explicit in your translation. Alternate translation: [May God give you and your descendants] or [I pray that God will give you and your descendants]
from the dew of the heavens and from the fatness of the earth
Quote: מִטַּל֙ הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם וּמִשְׁמַנֵּ֖י הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)Alternate translation: [plenty of dew from the heavens for your crops and animals and riches from the soil] or [plenty of rain and rich soil]
and an abundance of grain and wine
Quote: וְרֹ֥ב דָּגָ֖ן וְתִירֹֽשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Alternate translation: [including an abundance of food and drink] or [so that you have abundant food and much wine]
Genesis 27:29
May peoples serve you, and may nations bow down to you
Quote: יַֽעַבְד֣וּךָ עַמִּ֗ים וְיִֽשְׁתַּחֲו֤וּ לְךָ֙ לְאֻמִּ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
If possible in your language, it is best to keep both halves of this parallelism, which is used to emphasize what Isaac is saying to Jacob. Alternate translation: [May people groups serve you and your descendants, and may they bow down to you in respect]
Be master
Quote: הֱוֵ֤ה גְבִיר֙ (1)Alternate translation: [May you rule] or [You will even rule]
over your brothers
Quote: לְאַחֶ֔יךָ (1)Jacob only had one brother, so this phrase refers here to Esau and his descendants. Alternate translation: [over your brother and his descendants]
and may the sons of your mother bow down to you
Quote: וְיִשְׁתַּחֲוּ֥וּ לְךָ֖ בְּנֵ֣י אִמֶּ֑ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
This clause is another way of referring to Jacob’s authority over Esau and his descendants. Consider again how you translated the singular you in verses 28-29. You could use a plural you here or you could say “you and your descendants.” Alternate translation: [and they will bow down to you in submission] or [Yes, they too will submit to you and bow down to you]
May} those {who} curse you be cursed, and {may} those {who} bless you be blessed
Quote: אֹרְרֶ֣יךָ אָר֔וּר וּֽמְבָרֲכֶ֖יךָ בָּרֽוּךְ (1)See how you translated curse in Gen 12:3. Alternate translation: [Whoever curses you will be cursed by God, but whoever blesses you will be blessed by him] or [I ask God to curse those who curse you, and I ask him to bless those who bless you]
Genesis 27:30
Then it happened, just as Isaac finished blessing Jacob
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י כַּאֲשֶׁ֨ר כִּלָּ֣ה יִצְחָק֮ לְבָרֵ֣ךְ אֶֽת־יַעֲקֹב֒ (1)Alternate translation: [Just as Isaac finished blessing Jacob]
came in from his hunt
Quote: בָּ֖א מִצֵּידֽוֹ (1)Alternate translation: [came back from hunting]
Genesis 27:31
Then he too prepared tasty food
Quote: וַיַּ֤עַשׂ גַּם־הוּא֙ מַטְעַמִּ֔ים (1)Consider again how you translated prepared tasty food in verses 4, 7, 9, 14, 31 and tasty in verse 17. Alternate translation: [Then Esau also cooked a tasty meal with the meat he had hunted]
and he brought {it} to his father
Quote: וַיָּבֵ֖א לְאָבִ֑יו (1)Alternate translation: [and he carried it to his father Isaac]
and said to his father
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לְאָבִ֗יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [and requested]
Let my father get up
Quote: יָקֻ֤ם אָבִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
Esau’s request to his father should sound polite in your translation, not rude or demanding.
and eat from his son’s game
Quote: וְיֹאכַל֙ מִצֵּ֣יד בְּנ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Make sure it is clear in your translation that Esau is referring to himself in this phrase. Alternate translation: [and eat some of my wild animal meat]
so that your soul can bless me
Quote: בַּעֲב֖וּר תְּבָרֲכַ֥נִּי נַפְשֶֽׁךָ (1)See how you translated a similar phrase in verses 4, 19, 25 and 31. Alternate translation: [and then you can bless me]
Genesis 27:32
But Isaac his father said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר ל֛וֹ יִצְחָ֥ק אָבִ֖יו (1)For some languages it is more natural to make Isaac explicit in verse 31 and leave it implied here in verse 32. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Then his father asked him] or [But his father exclaimed]
Who {are} you
Quote: מִי־אָ֑תָּה (1)Isaac knew from what Esau just said in verse 31 that one of his sons was talking to him. Also, Isaac is very upset, so some translations add an exclamation point after the question mark to help communicate that. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Which of my sons are you?!]
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Esau answered him] or [Esau replied]
I {am} your son, your firstborn Esau
Quote: אֲנִ֛י בִּנְךָ֥ בְכֹֽרְךָ֖ עֵשָֽׂו (1)See how you translated firstborn in verse 19. Alternate translation: [I am your firstborn son Esau] or [I am Esau, your oldest son]
Genesis 27:33
Then Isaac trembled a very great tremble
Quote: וַיֶּחֱרַ֨ד יִצְחָ֣ק חֲרָדָה֮ גְּדֹלָ֣ה עַד־מְאֹד֒ (1)Alternate translation: [Then Isaac became so upset that he shook very violently] or [Then Isaac was very upset, so that he began to shake all over]
Then who {was} it
Quote: מִֽי־אֵפ֡וֹא ה֣וּא (1)Alternate translation: [Then where is the one]
that hunted game and brought {it} to me
Quote: הַצָּֽד־צַיִד֩ וַיָּ֨בֵא לִ֜י (1)Consider again how you translated game in Gen 27:3, 5, 7, 19, 25, 31 and 33. It may be necessary to translate it in slightly different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [who hunted game meat and brought a meal to me?] or [who brought to me a meal made from wild animal meat?]
And I ate from {it} all just before you came
Quote: וָאֹכַ֥ל מִכֹּ֛ל בְּטֶ֥רֶם תָּב֖וֹא (1)Alternate translation: [Just before you came to me, I finished eating the meal] or [I finished eating it just before you came here]
and I blessed him. Indeed, he will be blessed
Quote: וָאֲבָרֲכֵ֑הוּ גַּם־בָּר֖וּךְ יִהְיֶֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
Consider where it is most natural in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [and then I blessed him. And God will surely bless him] or [Then I asked God to bless him, so God will definitely bless him]
Genesis 27:34
When Esau heard the words of his father
Quote: כִּשְׁמֹ֤עַ עֵשָׂו֙ אֶת־דִּבְרֵ֣י אָבִ֔יו (1)Alternate translation: [When Esau heard what his father said to him]
then he cried out a great and exceedingly bitter cry
Quote: וַיִּצְעַ֣ק צְעָקָ֔ה גְּדֹלָ֥ה וּמָרָ֖ה עַד־מְאֹ֑ד (1)Alternate translation: [he burst out with an extremely loud and bitter cry] or [he was so upset that he yelled out loudly]
and said to his father
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לְאָבִ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [and begged him]
Bless me, me too, my father
Quote: בָּרֲכֵ֥נִי גַם־אָ֖נִי אָבִֽי (1)For some languages it is more natural to put the address “My father” or “Father” first in this sentence. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Father, please bless me too!]
Genesis 27:35
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [But his father replied to him]
Your brother came in deceit and took your blessing
Quote: בָּ֥א אָחִ֖יךָ בְּמִרְמָ֑ה וַיִּקַּ֖ח בִּרְכָתֶֽךָ (1)Alternate translation: [Your brother came to me and deceived me and stole the blessing that I was planning to give you] or [Your brother deceived me so that I blessed him instead of you!]
Genesis 27:36
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֡אמֶר (1)Alternate translation: [Then Esau exclaimed angrily] or [When Esau heard that, he said angrily]
Is it because his name is called Jacob that he has defrauded me these two times
Quote: הֲכִי֩ קָרָ֨א שְׁמ֜וֹ יַעֲקֹ֗ב וַֽיַּעְקְבֵ֨נִי֙ זֶ֣ה פַעֲמַ֔יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Esau uses a rhetorical question here to show his strong emotion. Do what is most natural in your language. Also, in order to help readers understand why Esau said this about Jacob, some translations include a footnote like the following: The name Jacob means “heel-grabber” and can imply deception. He was given that name because when he was born, he was grabbing hold of Esau’s heel (Genesis 25:26). Alternate translation: [It is no wonder that he is called Jacob, since he has cheated me two times!]
He took my birthright, and behold, now
Quote: אֶת־בְּכֹרָתִ֣י לָקָ֔ח וְהִנֵּ֥ה עַתָּ֖ה (1)Alternate translation: [First he stole my rights as the oldest son, and now see what he has done:] or [Not only did he take my birthright, but now see what he has done:]
he has taken my blessing
Quote: לָקַ֣ח בִּרְכָתִ֑י (1)Alternate translation: [he has also stolen my blessing!] or [he has tricked you into blessing him instead of me!]
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֡אמֶר (1)Alternate translation: [Then he begged his father] or [Then he pleaded with his father]
Have you not reserved a blessing for me
Quote: הֲלֹא־אָצַ֥לְתָּ לִּ֖י בְּרָכָֽה (1)Alternate translation: [Is there still some way you can ask God to bless me?]
Genesis 27:37
But Isaac responded and said to Esau
Quote: וַיַּ֨עַן יִצְחָ֜ק וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לְעֵשָׂ֗ו (1)Alternate translation: [Isaac replied to Esau] or [Isaac answered him]
Behold, I have made him master over you
Quote: הֵ֣ן גְּבִ֞יר שַׂמְתִּ֥יו לָךְ֙ (1)See how you translated master in verse 29. Alternate translation: [Look I have already appointed Jacob to be your master]
and I have given all his brothers to him as servants
Quote: וְאֶת־כָּל־אֶחָ֗יו נָתַ֤תִּי לוֹ֙ לַעֲבָדִ֔ים (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, see how you translated brothers in verse 29. Alternate translation: [In fact, I said that you and all your descendants will serve him] or [In fact, I have asked God to make it so that you and your descendants will serve him and his descendants]
And I have sustained him with grain and wine
Quote: וְדָגָ֥ן וְתִירֹ֖שׁ סְמַכְתִּ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated grain and wine in verse 28. Alternate translation: [Besides that, I have also supplied him with abundant food and wine] or [I have also asked God to supply him with plenty of food and wine]
So then, what can I do for you, my son
Quote: וּלְכָ֣ה אֵפ֔וֹא מָ֥ה אֶֽעֱשֶׂ֖ה בְּנִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Isaac uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that there is no blessing left for Esau. Alternate translation: [So my son, there is no blessing left for you!]
Genesis 27:38
But Esau said to his father
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר עֵשָׂ֜ו אֶל־אָבִ֗יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [But Esau continued to beg his father and said] or [But again Esau begged]
Is there one blessing that you have, my father
Quote: הַֽבְרָכָ֨ה אַחַ֤ת הִֽוא־לְךָ֙ אָבִ֔י (1)It may be more natural to put my father or “Father” first in this quote. See what you did in verse 34.
Bless me, me too, my father
Quote: בָּרֲכֵ֥נִי גַם־אָ֖נִי אָבִ֑י (1)See how you translated this sentence in verse 34. Alternate translation: [Father, please bless me too!]
Then Esau lifted his voice and sobbed
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֥א עֵשָׂ֛ו קֹל֖וֹ וַיֵּֽבְךְּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated “lifted … voice and sobbed” in Gen 21:16. Alternate translation: [Then Esau started sobbing loudly]
Genesis 27:39
Then Isaac his father responded and said to him
Quote: וַיַּ֛עַן יִצְחָ֥ק אָבִ֖יו וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלָ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [So his father Isaac said to him] or [His father replied]
Behold, your dwelling will be
Quote: הִנֵּ֞ה & יִהְיֶ֣ה מֽוֹשָׁבֶ֔ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
What Isaac says in verses 39-40 applies to Esau and his descendants. See what you did for a similar case in verses 28-29.
away from the fatness of the earth and away from the dew of the heavens from above
Quote: מִשְׁמַנֵּ֤י הָאָ֨רֶץ֙ & וּמִטַּ֥ל הַשָּׁמַ֖יִם מֵעָֽל (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “away from the fatness of the earth and away from the dew of the heavens from above.” or “in a place/region where the earth/land/ground is not rich/fertile and where there is very little dew/rain.” or “in a place/region where the land/soil is not good for farming and where there is not much rain.” or (2) “of the fatness of the earth and of the dew of the heavens from above.” or “in a place where the land is good/fertile for farming and where there is plenty of dew/rain.” See how you translated fatness of the earth and dew of the heavens in verse 28.
Genesis 27:40
And you will live by your sword
Quote: וְעַל־חַרְבְּךָ֣ תִֽחְיֶ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The phrase live by your sword is an idiom that means Esau and his descendants will have violent conflict with others, often in order to survive. Alternate translation: [You and your descendants will survive by using your swords to protect yourselves] or [You and your descendants will continually be fighting battles with other peoples]
and you will serve your brother
Quote: וְאֶת־אָחִ֖יךָ תַּעֲבֹ֑ד (1)Alternate translation: [and you and your descendants will serve your brother and his descendants] or [and you and your descendants will be servants for your brother and his descendants]
But it will happen when you become restless
Quote: וְהָיָה֙ כַּאֲשֶׁ֣ר תָּרִ֔יד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Consider again how you translated the singular you in verses 39-40. You could use a plural you here or you could say “you and your descendants.” See what you did for a similar case in verses 28-29. Alternate translation: [But when you revolt against him]
then you will break his yoke off of your neck
Quote: וּפָרַקְתָּ֥ עֻלּ֖וֹ מֵעַ֥ל צַוָּארֶֽךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The metaphor break his yoke off of your neck means Esau and his descendants will be free from the control of Jacob and his descendants. A yoke is a wooden collar that is placed around the necks of work animals to control them as they pull a plow or cart. Alternate translation: [you will get free from his rule over you] or [you will no longer be under his rule]
Genesis 27:41
Then Esau hated Jacob
Quote: וַיִּשְׂטֹ֤ם עֵשָׂו֙ אֶֽת־יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Alternate translation: [After that, Esau held a grudge against Jacob] or [Esau continued to be very angry at Jacob]
because of the blessing that his father had blessed him with
Quote: עַל־הַ֨בְּרָכָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר בֵּרֲכ֖וֹ אָבִ֑יו (1)Consider again how you translated the terms “bless” and blessing in chapter 27. See verses 4, 7, 10, 19, 23, 25, 27, 29-31, 33-36, 38 and 41. Alternate translation: [because his father had given his blessing to Jacob] or [because their father had blessed Jacob instead of him]
and Esau said in his heart
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר עֵשָׂ֜ו בְּלִבּ֗וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [So Esau said to himself]
The days of the mourning of my father are near
Quote: יִקְרְבוּ֙ יְמֵי֙ אֵ֣בֶל אָבִ֔י (1)In that culture, they had the custom of mourning the death of a loved one for a certain period of time, anywhere from a week to a month or more. See how you translated “mourn” in Gen 23:2. Alternate translation: [Soon my father will die, and we will have a time of mourning for him, then]
then I will kill
Quote: וְאַֽהַרְגָ֖ה (1)Alternate translation: [I am going to kill] or [I plan to kill]
Genesis 27:42
But the words of Esau her older son were told to Rebekah
Quote: וַיֻּגַּ֣ד לְרִבְקָ֔ה אֶת־דִּבְרֵ֥י עֵשָׂ֖ו בְּנָ֣הּ הַגָּדֹ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
It was probably a servant who told Rebekah about Esau’s plan to kill Jacob. Alternate translation: [Then someone told Rebekah what Esau was saying so] or [Then Rebekah heard about what her older son Esau was planning, so] or [When Rebekah heard what Esau was planning to do]
so she sent and called for Jacob her younger son
Quote: וַתִּשְׁלַ֞ח וַתִּקְרָ֤א לְיַעֲקֹב֙ בְּנָ֣הּ הַקָּטָ֔ן (1)Alternate translation: [she sent for her younger son Jacob to come to her] or [she sent a messenger to tell Jacob to come to her] or [she summoned her son Jacob]
and said to him
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [and warned him]
Behold, Esau your brother is consoling himself about you, planning to kill you
Quote: הִנֵּה֙ עֵשָׂ֣ו אָחִ֔יךָ מִתְנַחֵ֥ם לְךָ֖ לְהָרְגֶֽךָ (1)Alternate translation: [Look your brother Esau is making himself feel better by planning to kill you]
Genesis 27:43
So now, my son
Quote: וְעַתָּ֥ה בְנִ֖י (1)See how you translated So now in verses 3 and 8. Alternate translation: [Now son]
listen to my voice
Quote: שְׁמַ֣ע בְּקֹלִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated this phrase in verses 8 and 13. It may be necessary to translate it differently here because of the context. Alternate translation: [do what I tell you:]
and get up, flee for yourself
Quote: וְק֧וּם בְּרַח־לְךָ֛ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [get ready immediately and flee] or [Hurry and flee] or [Flee immediately]
to Laban my brother in Haran
Quote: אֶל־לָבָ֥ן אָחִ֖י חָרָֽנָה (1)For some languages, it is more natural to put the location (Haran) before the person who lives there (Laban). Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [to my brother Laban who lives in the city of Haran!] or [to the city of Haran, to the house of my brother Laban!]
Genesis 27:44
And stay with him for a few days
Quote: וְיָשַׁבְתָּ֥ עִמּ֖וֹ יָמִ֣ים אֲחָדִ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [Stay with him for a short time]
until the fury of your brother turns away
Quote: עַ֥ד אֲשֶׁר־תָּשׁ֖וּב חֲמַ֥ת אָחִֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Consider whether it is more natural in your language to end this sentence here or to continue the sentence into verse 45. Also, the phrase turns away is used here as an idiom that means “becomes less” or “goes away.” Alternate translation: [until your brother is no longer furious with you]
Genesis 27:45
until the anger of your brother turns away from you
Quote: עַד־שׁ֨וּב אַף־אָחִ֜יךָ מִמְּךָ֗ (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. Also, notice that the Hebrew word for anger here is different from the stronger word (“fury”) in verse 44. Alternate translation: [until his anger against you is gone] or [After a while, when your brother is no longer angry with you]
and he forgets what you have done to him
Quote: וְשָׁכַח֙ אֵ֣ת אֲשֶׁר־עָשִׂ֣יתָ לּ֔וֹ (1)Rebekah is not saying that Esau would totally forget what Jacob did, but that at some point he would not hold it against him anymore. Alternate translation: [and he no longer thinks about what you did]
Then I will send and get you from there
Quote: וְשָׁלַחְתִּ֖י וּלְקַחְתִּ֣יךָ מִשָּׁ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [I will send someone to tell you when it is safe to come back home]
Why should I also lose both of you {in} one day
Quote: לָמָ֥ה אֶשְׁכַּ֛ל גַּם־שְׁנֵיכֶ֖ם י֥וֹם אֶחָֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Rebekah knew that if Esau were to kill Jacob, he himself would have been killed for that crime. Consider whether it is best in your language to use a rhetorical question or an exclamation to emphasize Rebekah’s concern. Alternate translation: [I do not want both my sons to be killed!]
Genesis 27:46
Then Rebekah said to Isaac
Quote: וַתֹּ֤אמֶר רִבְקָה֙ אֶל־יִצְחָ֔ק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Soon after that, Rebekah said to Isaac]
I am disgusted with my life
Quote: קַ֣צְתִּי בְחַיַּ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
Rebekah is exaggerating how she feels to influence Isaac to do what she wants. Alternate translation: [I do not enjoy living] or [I am very upset]
because of the daughters of Heth
Quote: מִפְּנֵ֖י בְּנ֣וֹת חֵ֑ת (1)To show that Rebekah is speaking with strong emotion, you could use an exclamation point at the end of this sentence and the following one. Alternate translation: [because of the Hittite women whom Esau married!]
If Jacob takes a wife from the daughters of Heth like these, from daughters of the land
Quote: אִם־לֹקֵ֣חַ יַ֠עֲקֹב אִשָּׁ֨ה מִבְּנֽוֹת־חֵ֤ת כָּאֵ֨לֶּה֙ מִבְּנ֣וֹת הָאָ֔רֶץ (1)Alternate translation: [If Jacob also marries a Hittite woman from around here]
what {would} life {be} to me
Quote: לָ֥מָּה לִּ֖י חַיִּֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Rebekah uses a rhetorical question and hyperbole to emphasize how upset she would be if Jacob married a Hittite woman. Alternate translation: [my life will not be worth living!]
Genesis 28
Genesis 28:1
Then Isaac called for Jacob
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א יִצְחָ֛ק אֶֽל־יַעֲקֹ֖ב (1)Alternate translation: [So Isaac sent for Jacob to come to him] or [Because of what Rebekah said, Isaac summoned Jacob]
and blessed him
Quote: וַיְבָ֣רֶךְ אֹת֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, for some languages it may be necessary to make it explicit that Jacob arrived. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Then he blessed him] or [After he came, Isaac blessed him]
and commanded him and said to him
Quote: וַיְצַוֵּ֨הוּ֙ וַיֹּ֣אמֶר ל֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [and instructed him]
Do not take a wife from the daughters of Canaan
Quote: לֹֽא־תִקַּ֥ח אִשָּׁ֖ה מִבְּנ֥וֹת כְּנָֽעַן (1)If the word “woman” is used here in your translation, make sure it refers to a virgin woman who has never been married, or is general enough to include that. Alternate translation: [Do not marry a woman who is a descendant of Canaan] or [You must not take a wife from among the Canaanite women] or [Do not marry a Canaanite woman]
Genesis 28:2
Get up, go
Quote: ק֥וּם לֵךְ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
See how you translated “get up” in Gen 27:43. Alternate translation: [Rather get up and go]
to Paddan Aram
Quote: פַּדֶּ֣נָֽה אֲרָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Be consistent here with how you translated Paddan Aram in Gen 25:20. Alternate translation: [to the land of Paddan Aram]
and take a wife for yourself from there
Quote: וְקַח־לְךָ֤ מִשָּׁם֙ אִשָּׁ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [and find a woman from there to marry]
from the daughters of Laban the brother of your mother
Quote: מִבְּנ֥וֹת לָבָ֖ן אֲחִ֥י אִמֶּֽךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
Laban was Rebekah’s older brother. Some languages have a special term for this that is used here.
Genesis 28:3
And may God Almighty bless you
Quote: וְאֵ֤ל שַׁדַּי֙ יְבָרֵ֣ךְ אֹֽתְךָ֔ (1)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 (which it is not). See how you handled God Almighty in Gen 17:1. Alternate translation: [I pray that Almighty God will bless you] or [I ask God, who is all-powerful, to bless you] or [I pray that God, who is all-powerful, will prosper you]
and make you fruitful
Quote: וְיַפְרְךָ֖ (1)Alternate translation: [and enable you to have many children]
and multiply you
Quote: וְיַרְבֶּ֑ךָ (1)See how you translated fruitful and multiply in Gen 17:20. It may need to be translated in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [so that you have many descendants and]
so that you become a community of peoples
Quote: וְהָיִ֖יתָ לִקְהַ֥ל עַמִּֽים (1)Alternate translation: [so that you become the ancestor of many ethnic groups] or [so that many people groups will descend from you] or [so that they become many ethnic groups]
Genesis 28:4
And may he give the blessing of Abraham to you, to you and to your offspring with you
Quote: וְיִֽתֶּן־לְךָ֙ אֶת־בִּרְכַּ֣ת אַבְרָהָ֔ם לְךָ֖ וּלְזַרְעֲךָ֣ אִתָּ֑ךְ (1)Alternate translation: [I also ask God to bless you and your descendants the same way that he blessed Abraham]
so that you possess the land of
Quote: לְרִשְׁתְּךָ֙ אֶת־אֶ֣רֶץ (1)Alternate translation: [so that you will own the land] or [so that you will take possession of the land]
your sojournings
Quote: מְגֻרֶ֔יךָ (1)See how you translated land of your sojournings in Gen 17:8; it may be necessary to translate this differently here because of the different context. Alternate translation: [where you have been residing as a outsider] or [where you and your ancestors have been living as outsiders]
which God gave to Abraham
Quote: אֲשֶׁר־נָתַ֥ן אֱלֹהִ֖ים לְאַבְרָהָֽם (1)Alternate translation: [the same land which God promised to him]
Genesis 28:5
Then Isaac sent Jacob
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלַ֤ח יִצְחָק֙ אֶֽת־יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Alternate translation: [Then Isaac said good-bye to Jacob]
and he went
Quote: וַיֵּ֖לֶךְ (1)Make sure your translation of this phrase does not sound like Jacob had already arrived at Paddan Aram. Alternate translation: [and he left to go] or [and Jacob started traveling]
to Paddan Aram, to Laban
Quote: פַּדֶּ֣נָֽה אֲרָ֑ם אֶל־לָבָ֤ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Consider whether is more natural in your language to refer to Paddan Aram first or to Laban first in this sentence. Also see how you translated to Paddan Aram in verses 2 and 5. Alternate translation: [to the land of Paddan Aram, to Laban]
the son of Bethuel the Aramean
Quote: בֶּן־בְּתוּאֵל֙ הָֽאֲרַמִּ֔י (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, be consistent with how you spelled the name Bethuel in the book of Genesis. See Gen 22:22-23; 24:15, 24, 47, 50; 25:20; 28:2, 5. Alternate translation: [who was the son of Bethuel the Aramean]
Genesis 28:6
Now Esau saw that Isaac had blessed Jacob and had sent him to Paddan Aram
Quote: וַיַּ֣רְא עֵשָׂ֗ו כִּֽי־בֵרַ֣ךְ יִצְחָק֮ אֶֽת־יַעֲקֹב֒ וְשִׁלַּ֤ח אֹתוֹ֙ פַּדֶּ֣נָֽה אֲרָ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [Now Esau had observed Isaac bless Jacob and send him to the land of Paddan Aram]
to take a wife for himself from there
Quote: לָקַֽחַת־ל֥וֹ מִשָּׁ֖ם אִשָּׁ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [to marry a wife from among his relatives there]
and that} when he blessed him, then he commanded him, saying
Quote: בְּבָרֲכ֣וֹ אֹת֔וֹ וַיְצַ֤ו עָלָיו֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, see how you translated commanded in verse 1. Alternate translation: [and that as Isaac was blessing Jacob, he told him] or [As Isaac was blessing Jacob, Esau heard him tell him]
Do not take a wife from the daughters of Canaan
Quote: לֹֽא־תִקַּ֥ח אִשָּׁ֖ה מִבְּנ֥וֹת כְּנָֽעַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Consider whether or not it is better in your language to translate this direct quote as an indirect quote. Alternate translation: [You must not take a woman who is a descendant of Canaan] or [that he must not choose a wife from among the Canaanite women]
Genesis 28:7
and {that} Jacob listened to his father and to his mother
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמַ֣ע יַעֲקֹ֔ב אֶל־אָבִ֖יו וְאֶל־אִמּ֑וֹ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [and he also observed that Jacob obeyed his father and mother] or [Esau also noticed that Jacob obeyed his parents]
and went to Paddan Aram
Quote: וַיֵּ֖לֶךְ פַּדֶּ֥נָֽה אֲרָֽם (1)Alternate translation: [and immediately left to go to Paddan Aram]
Genesis 28:8
Then Esau saw that
Quote: וַיַּ֣רְא עֵשָׂ֔ו כִּ֥י (1)Alternate translation: [That is how Esau understood that]
the daughters of Canaan were displeasing in the eyes of Isaac his father
Quote: רָע֖וֹת בְּנ֣וֹת כְּנָ֑עַן בְּעֵינֵ֖י יִצְחָ֥ק אָבִֽיו (1)Alternate translation: [his father Isaac did not want his sons to marry Canaanite women]
Genesis 28:9
So Esau went to Ishmael
Quote: וַיֵּ֥לֶךְ עֵשָׂ֖ו אֶל־יִשְׁמָעֵ֑אל (1)Most likely Ishmael was already dead by this time, so that Esau went to the region where Ishmael’s children and other descendants were living. Alternate translation: [Then Esau traveled to the clan of Ishmael]
the sister of Nebaioth
Quote: אֲח֧וֹת נְבָי֛וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
Be consistent here with how you spelled Nebaioth in Gen 25:13. Since Nebaioth was Ishmael’s oldest child, Mahalath was his younger sister, probably from the same mother. Use a kinship term here in your language for sister or “brother” that fits with those facts. Alternate translation: [and who was the younger sister of Nebaioth] or [and whose older brother was Nebaioth]
in addition to his wives {who belonged} to him
Quote: עַל־נָשָׁ֖יו ל֥וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it may be better to change the order of some of the clauses in this sentence and say, “So, in addition to the two wives he already had, Esau went to the family of Abraham’s son Ishmael and married Ishmael’s daughter Mahalath, whose brother was Nebaioth.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [besides the two wives he already had]
Genesis 28:10
And Jacob left from Beersheba and set out
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֥א יַעֲקֹ֖ב מִבְּאֵ֣ר שָׁ֑בַע וַיֵּ֖לֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Verse 10 refers back to verse 5, where Jacob had left his parents’ home in Beersheba to go to Paddan Aram. Make sure your translation does not sound like he left a second time here in verse 10. Alternate translation: [Meanwhile Jacob had left the city of Beersheba and was traveling]
for Haran
Quote: חָרָֽנָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Make sure it is clear in your translation that Jacob was heading toward the same place that his father had told him to go to in verse 2. The author assumed here that his audience knew that Haran was a city located in the Paddan Aram region. It may be helpful to include a map in your translation that shows the locations of the city of Haran and the region of Paddan Aram. Alternate translation: [toward the city of Haran in the region of Paddan Aram]
Genesis 28:11
Then he reached a {certain} place, and he stopped there
Quote: וַיִּפְגַּ֨ע בַּמָּק֜וֹם וַיָּ֤לֶן שָׁם֙ (1)Alternate translation: [That evening he reached a good place to camp so he stayed the night there] or [Late that evening he came to a place where he stayed for the night]
because the sun had gone
Quote: כִּי־בָ֣א הַשֶּׁ֔מֶשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to put the information in this clause first in this sentence and say, “After the sun went down, he reached a good place to camp/sleep, so he stopped/stayed there for the night.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [because the sun had gone down]
And he took {one} of the stones of the place
Quote: וַיִּקַּח֙ מֵאַבְנֵ֣י הַמָּק֔וֹם (1)The way you translate “stone” should refer to something that would be large enough to support Jacob’s head, but not so large that it would be too heavy for him to lift. For example in English, a pebble is too small and a boulder is too big. Alternate translation: [He picked out a large flat stone that he found there]
and put it under his head
Quote: וַיָּ֖שֶׂם מְרַֽאֲשֹׁתָ֑יו (1)Alternate translation: [and rested his head on it as a pillow] or [and used it as a headrest] or [to use as a pillow]
and he lay down in that place
Quote: וַיִּשְׁכַּ֖ב בַּמָּק֥וֹם הַהֽוּא (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [then he lay down there and went to sleep] or [Then he lay down there on the ground and went to sleep] or [then he went to sleep there]
Genesis 28:12
And he dreamed
Quote: וַֽיַּחֲלֹ֗ם (1)Alternate translation: [And as he dreamed] or [As he slept, he had a dream and]
and behold, a stairway was set up on the earth
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֤ה סֻלָּם֙ מֻצָּ֣ב אַ֔רְצָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
This stairway was wide enough for there to be angels moving up and down on it at the same time. Alternate translation: [he saw a staircase whose base was resting on the ground] or [he saw a staircase. The base of the stairway was on the ground]
and its top reached to the heavens
Quote: וְרֹאשׁ֖וֹ מַגִּ֣יעַ הַשָּׁמָ֑יְמָה (1)Alternate translation: [and the top of it went all the way up into the sky]
and behold, angels of God were ascending and descending on it
Quote: וְהִנֵּה֙ מַלְאֲכֵ֣י אֱלֹהִ֔ים עֹלִ֥ים וְיֹרְדִ֖ים בּֽוֹ (1)See how you translated “angel” in Gen 24:7, 40. Alternate translation: [and there were angels of God who were going up and down on the stairway]
Genesis 28:13
And behold, Yahweh was standing above it
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֨ה יְהוָ֜ה נִצָּ֣ב עָלָיו֮ (1)The phrase for above it in the Hebrew text is ambiguous. It could mean: (1) above it or “at the top of the stairway” or (2) “above/beside him/Jacob.” The interpretation that is not followed in your translation could be put in a footnote. Alternate translation: [Then suddenly Yahweh was standing at the top of the stairway] or [And Yahweh was also there, standing at the top of the stairway]
the God of Abraham your grandfather and the God of Isaac
Quote: אֱלֹהֵי֙ אַבְרָהָ֣ם אָבִ֔יךָ וֵאלֹהֵ֖י יִצְחָ֑ק (1)Abraham was Jacob’s grandfather and ancestor. Alternate translation: [the God whom your forefathers Abraham and Isaac serve] or [the God who takes care of your forefathers Abraham and Isaac]
The land that you are lying on I will give to you and to your offspring
Quote: הָאָ֗רֶץ אֲשֶׁ֤ר אַתָּה֙ שֹׁכֵ֣ב עָלֶ֔יהָ לְךָ֥ אֶתְּנֶ֖נָּה וּלְזַרְעֶֽךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
In the Hebrew text, “the land that you are lying on” comes first in this sentence in order to emphasize it and show its importance. Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [The land where you are lying I am giving to you and your descendants] or [I will give you and your descendants this land that you are sleeping on]
Genesis 28:14
And your offspring will be
Quote: וְהָיָ֤ה זַרְעֲךָ֙ (1)Alternate translation: [And your descendants will be] or [You will have so many descendants that they will be]
like the dust of the earth
Quote: כַּעֲפַ֣ר הָאָ֔רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
See how you translated dust in Gen 13:16. Alternate translation: [as many as the dust specks on the ground]
and you will spread out
Quote: וּפָרַצְתָּ֛ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
In this clause you refers to Jacob’s descendants. Make sure that is clear in your translation. Alternate translation: [and your people will spread out] or [so that they expand their territory]
to the west and to the east and to the north and to the south
Quote: יָ֥מָּה וָקֵ֖דְמָה וְצָפֹ֣נָה וָנֶ֑גְבָּה (1)See how you translated the names of the directions “west,” “east,” “north,” and south in Gen 13:14. Notice that they are in a different order there. Alternate translation: [to the west, east, north, and south] or [to the north, south, east, and west]
in you and in your offspring
Quote: בְךָ֛ & וּבְזַרְעֶֽךָ (1)Be consistent here with how you translated your offspring in Gen 22:18 and 26:4. Alternate translation: [In 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: וְנִבְרֲכ֥וּ & כָּל־מִשְׁפְּחֹ֥ת הָאֲדָמָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
For some languages it may be better to change the order of phrases in this sentence and say, “And I will bless all the families in the world through you and your offspring/descendants.” or “I will use you and your offspring/descendants to bless all the families on earth.” See how you translated similar Messianic blessings in Gen 12:3, 18:18, 22:18, and 26:4. Alternate translation: [all the families on the earth will be blessed by me] or [I will bless all the clans in the world]
Genesis 28:15
And behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֨ה (1)Alternate translation: [Listen to this:]
I {am} with you
Quote: אָנֹכִ֜י עִמָּ֗ךְ (1)See how you translated I am with you in Gen 26:24 and “I will be with you” in Gen 26:3. Alternate translation: [I will always stay with you] or [I promise to always be with you and help you]
and I will watch over you
Quote: וּשְׁמַרְתִּ֨יךָ֙ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [I will guard you] or [I will take care of you]
in every {place} that you go
Quote: בְּכֹ֣ל אֲשֶׁר־תֵּלֵ֔ךְ (1)Alternate translation: [everywhere that you go] or [wherever you live]
and I will bring you back to this land
Quote: וַהֲשִׁ֣בֹתִ֔יךָ אֶל־הָאֲדָמָ֖ה הַזֹּ֑את (1)Alternate translation: [and I will guide you back to this land]
For I will not leave you
Quote: כִּ֚י לֹ֣א אֶֽעֱזָבְךָ֔ (1)Alternate translation: [In fact, I will never abandon you]
until I have done what I have spoken to you
Quote: עַ֚ד אֲשֶׁ֣ר אִם־עָשִׂ֔יתִי אֵ֥ת אֲשֶׁר־דִּבַּ֖רְתִּי לָֽךְ (1)Make sure your translation of until does not sound like God will only be with Jacob up to the time that he fulfills his promises. Rather the focus is on the period of time between now when God is speaking to Jacob and the time later on when Jacob would see the fulfillment of God’s promises to him.
Genesis 28:16
Then Jacob woke up from his sleep and said
Quote: וַיִּיקַ֣ץ יַעֲקֹב֮ מִשְּׁנָתוֹ֒ וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Alternate translation: [Suddenly Jacob woke up from his dream and said to himself] or [When Jacob woke up from his dream, he said to himself]
Surely Yahweh is in this place
Quote: אָכֵן֙ יֵ֣שׁ יְהוָ֔ה בַּמָּק֖וֹם הַזֶּ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [Certainly Yahweh is here in this place] or [Yahweh definitely lives here]
but I did not know {it
Quote: וְאָנֹכִ֖י לֹ֥א יָדָֽעְתִּי (1)Alternate translation: [but I did not realize it before now!] or [but I was not aware of that before!]
Genesis 28:17
So he was afraid and said
Quote: וַיִּירָא֙ וַיֹּאמַ֔ר (1)Alternate translation: [He was afraid, so he also said]
How awesome this place is
Quote: מַה־נּוֹרָ֖א הַמָּק֣וֹם הַזֶּ֑ה (1)The word awesome refers here to the terror that Jacob was feeling from being in the holy presence of Almighty God. Alternate translation: [This is an awesome place!] or [This place is terrifying!]
This is nothing other than the house of God
Quote: אֵ֣ין זֶ֗ה כִּ֚י אִם־בֵּ֣ית אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)Alternate translation: [It must be the house where God himself lives!]
and this {is} the gateway of heaven
Quote: וְזֶ֖ה שַׁ֥עַר הַשָּׁמָֽיִם (1)Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [It can only be the gateway to heaven!] or [It must be the gateway to heaven!]
Genesis 28:18
Then in the morning Jacob got up early
Quote: וַיַּשְׁכֵּ֨ם יַעֲקֹ֜ב בַּבֹּ֗קֶר (1)Alternate translation: [Jacob got up early the next morning]
and he took the stone that he had put under his head
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֤ח אֶת־הָאֶ֨בֶן֙ אֲשֶׁר־שָׂ֣ם מְרַֽאֲשֹׁתָ֔יו (1)See how you translated stone and under his head in verse 11. Alternate translation: [took the stone that he had used as a headrest]
and stood it up
Quote: וַיָּ֥שֶׂם אֹתָ֖הּ (1)Alternate translation: [and stood it up on its end]
as} a pillar
Quote: מַצֵּבָ֑ה (1)The word pillar refers here to a stone that is used to commemorate something. In this case, Jacob used a stone to mark and help him remember the place where God had appeared to him. Alternate translation: [as a marker] or [as a memorial stone] or [to mark that place where God had appeared to him]
and he poured oil on its top
Quote: וַיִּצֹ֥ק שֶׁ֖מֶן עַל־רֹאשָֽׁהּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
In Bible times people poured olive oil on a person’s head or on objects (as here) to dedicate that person or object to God. Make sure that the way you translate oil does not refer to motor oil. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [Then he poured some olive oil on top of the pillar to dedicate the place to God]
Genesis 28:19
And he called the name of that place Bethel
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֛א אֶת־שֵֽׁם־הַמָּק֥וֹם הַה֖וּא בֵּֽית־אֵ֑ל (1)Be consistent here with how you spelled Bethel in Gen 12:8 and 13:3.
even though Luz {had been} the name of the town at first
Quote: וְאוּלָ֛ם ל֥וּז שֵׁם־הָעִ֖יר לָרִאשֹׁנָֽה (1)Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [even though originally that town was called Luz] or [Originally the name of that town had been Luz]
Genesis 28:20
Then Jacob vowed a vow, saying
Quote: וַיִּדַּ֥ר יַעֲקֹ֖ב נֶ֣דֶר לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)See how you translated a clause that has a similar meaning (“swear to …”) in Gen 21:23, 31. Alternate translation: [Then he made a pledge to God and said]
If God will be with me
Quote: אִם־יִהְיֶ֨ה אֱלֹהִ֜ים עִמָּדִ֗י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Since Jacob is making this vow to God, for some languages it is more natural to address God directly (as “you”) throughout verses 20-22, rather than only in the last half of verse 22 (as the Hebrew text does). Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [God, if you will be with me]
and watch over me
Quote: וּשְׁמָרַ֨נִי֙ (1)See how you translated watch over in verse 15. Alternate translation: [and guard me] or [and take care of me]
on this road that I am walking on
Quote: בַּדֶּ֤רֶךְ הַזֶּה֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר אָנֹכִ֣י הוֹלֵ֔ךְ (1)The way you translate this phrase should reflect that fact that Jacob’s journey from his home to the city of Haran was about 725 kilometers (450 miles) long. Alternate translation: [on this long journey I am taking] or [as I travel on this long journey]
and give to me bread to eat and clothes to wear
Quote: וְנָֽתַן־לִ֥י לֶ֛חֶם לֶאֱכֹ֖ל וּבֶ֥גֶד לִלְבֹּֽשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
In this context bread refers to food in general, not just bread. Alternate translation: [and if you give me food to eat and clothes to wear] or [and if you provide me with food and clothes]
Genesis 28:21
and {if} I return in peace
Quote: וְשַׁבְתִּ֥י בְשָׁל֖וֹם (1)Alternate translation: [and if I come back safely]
to the home of my father
Quote: אֶל־בֵּ֣ית אָבִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This phrase especially refers to Jacob’s father’s family members, not just the physical home. Alternate translation: [to my family]
then Yahweh will be God to me
Quote: וְהָיָ֧ה יְהוָ֛ה לִ֖י לֵאלֹהִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Alternate translation: [then Yahweh, you will be the God whom I worship] or [then I will serve you Yahweh as my God]
Genesis 28:22
and this stone that I have stood up {as} a pillar will be the house of God
Quote: וְהָאֶ֣בֶן הַזֹּ֗את אֲשֶׁר־שַׂ֨מְתִּי֙ מַצֵּבָ֔ה יִהְיֶ֖ה בֵּ֣ית אֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)See how you translated as a pillar in verse 18. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [This stone that I have set up will be your house and will mark this place where you appeared to me] or [and this memorial stone that I set up will remind people that you live here]
and all that you give to me I will tithe a tenth to you
Quote: וְכֹל֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר תִּתֶּן־לִ֔י עַשֵּׂ֖ר אֲעַשְּׂרֶ֥נּוּ לָֽךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Consider again how you translated the way Jacob refers to Yahweh in verses 20-22; see the note about this at verse 20. Also see how you translated tithe in Gen 14:20. Alternate translation: [and everything that you give to me, I will give a tenth of it back to you] or [and I will give back to you ten percent of everything that you give to me]
Genesis 29
Genesis 29:1
Then Jacob lifted his feet and went
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֥א יַעֲקֹ֖ב רַגְלָ֑יו וַיֵּ֖לֶךְ (1)Alternate translation: [Then Jacob continued traveling until he came]
to the land of the sons of the east
Quote: אַ֥רְצָה בְנֵי־קֶֽדֶם (1)This land was located east of the land of Canaan and included the region of Paddan Aram where Jacob’s uncle Laban lived in the city of Haran (Gen 27:43; 28:5). See how you translated east in Gen 28:14. Alternate translation: [to the land in the east where various ethnic groups lived] or [to the region that was east of the land of Canaan where the eastern ethnic groups lived]
Genesis 29:2
And he looked
Quote: וַיַּ֞רְא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Jacob was now near the city of Haran (verse 4), which was in the land east of Canaan (verse 1). Alternate translation: [Then he looked around] or [When he got there, he looked around] or [When he arrived at a place near the city of Haran, he looked around]
and behold, a well {was} in the field
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֧ה בְאֵ֣ר בַּשָּׂדֶ֗ה (1)The word field refers to an open area of land, not a fenced-in area. See how you translated this term in Gen 25:27, 29. Alternate translation: [and he saw a well in an open area] or [and there in an open field was a well]
and behold, three flocks of sheep were lying there
Quote: וְהִנֵּה־שָׁ֞ם שְׁלֹשָׁ֤ה עֶדְרֵי־צֹאן֙ רֹבְצִ֣ים (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [He saw three flocks of sheep that were lying down] or [There were three flocks of sheep lying down]
near it
Quote: עָלֶ֔יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Alternate translation: [beside it] or [beside the well waiting for water]
because from that well the flocks were watered
Quote: כִּ֚י מִן־הַבְּאֵ֣ר הַהִ֔וא יַשְׁק֖וּ הָעֲדָרִ֑ים (1)Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [because that was the well where the shepherds got water for the flocks] or [That was the well that sheep drank water from]
and the stone over the mouth of the well {was} large
Quote: וְהָאֶ֥בֶן גְּדֹלָ֖ה עַל־פִּ֥י הַבְּאֵֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
This stone would have been very large and heavy and probably had been cut into a circular shape to cover the round opening of the well. You could include here in your translation a picture of a well with a round, flat stone covering it. Alternate translation: [but the stone covering the top of the well was large and heavy] or [but there was a heavy large stone over the opening of the well]
Genesis 29:3
And all the flocks would be gathered there, then they would roll the stone
Quote: וְנֶאֶסְפוּ־שָׁ֣מָּה כָל־הָעֲדָרִ֗ים וְגָלֲל֤וּ אֶת־הָאֶ֨בֶן֙ (1)Verse 3 tells what happened regularly every day. Consider what is the best way to communicate this in your language. Also, be consistent here with how you translated stone in verse 2. Alternate translation: [Every day shepherds would bring all their flocks of sheep there. They would work together to roll the stone] or [After all the shepherds brought their flocks there, together they would remove the stone]
from over the mouth of the well
Quote: מֵעַל֙ פִּ֣י הַבְּאֵ֔ר (1)Alternate translation: [off the top of the well]
and water the sheep
Quote: וְהִשְׁק֖וּ אֶת־הַצֹּ֑אן (1)See how you translated “watered” in verse 2, and how you translated a different word that has a similar meaning (“draw water”) in Gen 24:19-20. Alternate translation: [and get water from it for the sheep to drink]
Then they would return the stone to its place
Quote: וְהֵשִׁ֧יבוּ אֶת־הָאֶ֛בֶן & לִמְקֹמָֽהּ (1)Alternate translation: [Then they would roll the stone back]
from over the mouth of the well
Quote: מֵעַל֙ פִּ֣י הַבְּאֵ֔ר (1)Alternate translation: [over the opening of the well]
Genesis 29:4
Then Jacob said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר לָהֶם֙ יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Jacob greeted the shepherds]
My brothers
Quote: אַחַ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is a polite, friendly idiom used as a greeting; it does not mean that the shepherds were actually Jacob’s relatives. Many languages have a similar greeting. Alternate translation: [Friends]
And they said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמְר֔וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [They replied to him] or [They answered him]
We {are} from Haran
Quote: מֵחָרָ֖ן אֲנָֽחְנוּ (1)Your translation should not sound like the city of Haran was far away from there; it was nearby. Alternate translation: [We live in the city of Haran]
Genesis 29:5
Then he said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לָהֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Consider what is the most natural way in your language to translate quote margins in a conversation that goes back and forth quickly like the one in verses 4-8. After the conversation gets started, it often sounds more life-like and natural to shorten the quote margins and leave implied some of the references to the people who are being talked to (as long as it is still clear who is talking to whom).
Do you know Laban, the grandson of Nahor
Quote: הַיְדַעְתֶּ֖ם אֶת־לָבָ֣ן בֶּן־נָח֑וֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Consider what is the best way to order this question in your language.
And they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֖וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [They replied]
We know him
Quote: יָדָֽעְנוּ (1)Hebrew does not have a single word for “Yes,” but rather repeats words from what was asked. Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [Yes, we know him]
Genesis 29:6
Then he said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר לָהֶ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then Jacob asked]
Are {things} well for him
Quote: הֲשָׁל֣וֹם ל֑וֹ (1)Jacob is asking about Laban’s general well-being, not just his health. Alternate translation: [Are things going well for him?]
Things are} well
Quote: שָׁל֔וֹם (1)Alternate translation: [Yes, things are good for him]
Genesis 29:7
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then Jacob said to them]
Behold, the day {is} still large
Quote: הֵ֥ן עוֹד֙ הַיּ֣וֹם גָּד֔וֹל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom that means there are still many more hours of daytime left. Consider whether your language has an idiom for this. Alternate translation: [Look, it is still the middle of the day] or [Look, the sun is still high in the sky] or [There is still a lot of daylight left]
It is} not time for the livestock to be gathered
Quote: לֹא־עֵ֖ת הֵאָסֵ֣ף הַמִּקְנֶ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [so it is too soon to gather the flocks for the night]
Water the sheep
Quote: הַשְׁק֥וּ הַצֹּ֖אן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
For some languages it sounds too rude for Jacob to make a direct command here, so it is better to make this a suggestion or even a rhetorical question. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [You ought to get water for them] or [It seems like you should water your sheep] or [So why not water your sheep]
and go pasture {them
Quote: וּלְכ֥וּ רְעֽוּ (1)Alternate translation: [then take them back out to the fields to graze some more] or [then you can take them out to eat more grass]
Genesis 29:8
But they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְרוּ֮ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [But they said to him]
We cannot
Quote: לֹ֣א נוּכַל֒ (1)Alternate translation: [We have to wait]
until all the flocks are gathered
Quote: עַ֣ד אֲשֶׁ֤ר יֵאָֽסְפוּ֙ כָּל־הָ֣עֲדָרִ֔ים (1)Alternate translation: [until all the shepherds have brought their flocks here]
and they roll the stone
Quote: וְגָֽלֲלוּ֙ אֶת־הָאֶ֔בֶן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Make sure it is clear in your translation that the ones who are talking here are also shepherds. See how you translated this phrase in verse 3. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [and we all remove the stone]
from over the mouth of the well
Quote: מֵעַ֖ל פִּ֣י הַבְּאֵ֑ר (1)See how you translated this phrase in verses 2 and 3. Alternate translation: [off the top of the well]
Then we will water the sheep
Quote: וְהִשְׁקִ֖ינוּ הַצֹּֽאן (1)Alternate translation: [and draw water for the flocks]
Genesis 29:9
He was still talking with them
Quote: עוֹדֶ֖נּוּ מְדַבֵּ֣ר עִמָּ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [While Jacob was still talking to the shepherds]
because she was tending them
Quote: כִּ֥י רֹעָ֖ה הִֽוא (1)Alternate translation: [because she was the one who tended them]
Genesis 29:10
Then it happened, when
Quote: וַיְהִ֡י כַּאֲשֶׁר֩ (1)Alternate translation: [When]
then Jacob went over
Quote: וַיִּגַּ֣שׁ יַעֲקֹ֗ב (1)Alternate translation: [he went over to the well]
and rolled the stone from over the mouth of the well
Quote: וַיָּ֤גֶל אֶת־הָאֶ֨בֶן֙ מֵעַל֙ פִּ֣י הַבְּאֵ֔ר (1)Alternate translation: [and took the stone off the top of the well] or [removed the stone that was covering it]
and watered
Quote: וַיַּ֕שְׁקְ (1)See how you translated watered in verses 2-3, 7-8, and in 24:14, 20. Alternate translation: [and got water for]
Genesis 29:11
Then Jacob kissed Rachel
Quote: וַיִּשַּׁ֥ק יַעֲקֹ֖ב לְרָחֵ֑ל (1)In that culture it was common to greet a relative with a kiss on the cheek (or both cheeks). However, if it would be offensive in your culture for Jacob to kiss Rachel here, you could translate this more generally (See: the second alternate translation above). Also see how you translated “kiss” in Gen 27:26-27. Alternate translation: [Then he kissed Rachel on the cheek] or [Then he greeted Rachel enthusiastically as one of his relatives]
and lifted his voice and cried
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֥א אֶת־קֹל֖וֹ וַיֵּֽבְךְּ (1)See how you translated the idiom lifted his voice in Gen 27:38. However, here Jacob is crying because he is happy, not upset. Make sure that is clear in your translation. Alternate translation: [and he started crying loudly because he was so happy]
Genesis 29:12
Then Jacob told Rachel
Quote: וַיַּגֵּ֨ד יַעֲקֹ֜ב לְרָחֵ֗ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Consider what is the most natural way in your language to refer to Jacob and Rachel in this context.
that he {was} a relative of her father and that he {was} a son of Rebekah
Quote: כִּ֣י אֲחִ֤י אָבִ֨יהָ֙ ה֔וּא וְכִ֥י בֶן־רִבְקָ֖ה ה֑וּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Consider whether it is best in your language to use an indirect quote here or a direct quote. Alternate translation: [that her father Laban was his uncle and that her aunt Rebekah was his mother]
Then she ran and told her father
Quote: וַתָּ֖רָץ וַתַּגֵּ֥ד לְאָבִֽיהָ (1)Alternate translation: [Then she ran home and told her father the news] or [So she ran home to her father and informed him about Jacob]
Genesis 29:13
And it happened, when Laban heard
Quote: וַיְהִי֩ כִשְׁמֹ֨עַ לָבָ֜ן (1)Alternate translation: [When Laban found out] or [As soon as Laban heard]
the news about Jacob the son of his sister
Quote: אֶת־שֵׁ֣מַע ׀ יַעֲקֹ֣ב בֶּן־אֲחֹת֗וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [that his nephew Jacob was there]
then he ran to meet him
Quote: וַיָּ֤רָץ לִקְרָאתוֹ֙ (1)Alternate translation: [he ran out to meet him]
Then he embraced him
Quote: וַיְחַבֶּק־לוֹ֙ (1)Alternate translation: [Then he hugged Jacob] or [He gave him a hug]
and kissed him
Quote: וַיְנַשֶּׁק־ל֔וֹ (1)See how you translated kissed in verse 11. Alternate translation: [and kissed him on his cheeks] or [and greeted him warmly as one of his relatives]
and brought him to his house
Quote: וַיְבִיאֵ֖הוּ אֶל־בֵּית֑וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [and took him back to his house] or [and took him home]
Then he told Laban all these things
Quote: וַיְסַפֵּ֣ר לְלָבָ֔ן אֵ֥ת כָּל־הַדְּבָרִ֖ים הָאֵֽלֶּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Laban’s response in verse 14 implies that Jacob told him about himself here in verse 13. Alternate translation: [Then he told Laban about himself and everything that had happened]
Genesis 29:14
and Laban said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר לוֹ֙ לָבָ֔ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [and Laban responded]
You {are} indeed my bone and my flesh
Quote: אַ֛ךְ עַצְמִ֥י וּבְשָׂרִ֖י אָ֑תָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom that means Jacob is a close, biological relative of Laban. Consider whether your language has a similar idiom. Alternate translation: [You are definitely my own flesh and blood!] or [You are definitely my close relative!]
Then he stayed with him
Quote: וַיֵּ֥שֶׁב עִמּ֖וֹ (1)Your choice here in verse 14 will determine whether or not this sentence continues into verse 15. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Then Jacob stayed and served for Laban]
a month of days
Quote: חֹ֥דֶשׁ יָמִֽים (1)Alternate translation: [for thirty days]
Genesis 29:15
Then Laban said to Jacob
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר לָבָן֙ לְיַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Laban asked him]
Because you {are} my relative, should you then serve me for nothing
Quote: הֲכִי־אָחִ֣י אַ֔תָּה וַעֲבַדְתַּ֖נִי חִנָּ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
See how you translated relative in verse 12. This rhetorical question expects the implied answer “No, of course not!” Consider whether it is more natural in your language to use a statement here instead. Alternate translation: [Just because you are my nephew, does that mean that you should work for me without pay?] or [Even though you are my relative that does not mean that you should have to work for me for free!] or [You should not have to work for me for nothing just because you are my nephew!]
Tell me, what {are} your wages
Quote: הַגִּ֥ידָה לִּ֖י מַה־מַּשְׂכֻּרְתֶּֽךָ (1)Alternate translation: [So tell me what your wages should be] or [So tell me what you want me to pay you for your work]
Genesis 29:16
Now Laban had two daughters
Quote: וּלְלָבָ֖ן שְׁתֵּ֣י בָנ֑וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
Verses 16-17 introduce background information for what happens in the verses that follow that. Translate this in a way that is natural and clear in your language. Alternate translation: [Now it so happened that Laban had two daughters:]
The name of the older {was} Leah, and the name of the younger {was} Rachel
Quote: שֵׁ֤ם הַגְּדֹלָה֙ לֵאָ֔ה וְשֵׁ֥ם הַקְּטַנָּ֖ה רָחֵֽל (1)Alternate translation: [The name of the older daughter was Leah, and the younger daughter was Rachel] or [The older one was named Leah and the younger daughter was named Rachel]
Genesis 29:17
And the eyes of Leah {were} delicate
Quote: וְעֵינֵ֥י לֵאָ֖ה רַכּ֑וֹת (1)The Hebrew word for delicate is ambiguous in this context. It can have: (1) a positive meaning of “pretty” or lovely or (2) a negative meaning of “weak,” which implies that Leah’s eyes were plain, dull, or unattractive.
but Rachel was lovely of form and beautiful of appearance
Quote: וְרָחֵל֙ הָֽיְתָ֔ה יְפַת־תֹּ֖אַר וִיפַ֥ת מַרְאֶֽה (1)Alternate translation: [whereas Rachel was extremely beautiful in every way]
Genesis 29:18
And Jacob loved Rachel
Quote: וַיֶּאֱהַ֥ב יַעֲקֹ֖ב אֶת־רָחֵ֑ל (1)Alternate translation: [Jacob had fallen in love with Rachel]
so he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [so he responded to Laban]
I will serve you seven years
Quote: אֶֽעֱבָדְךָ֙ שֶׁ֣בַע שָׁנִ֔ים (1)Jacob is offering seven years of work as the dowry or bride-price for Rachel. Translate this sentence in a way that reflects that.
for Rachel your younger daughter
Quote: בְּרָחֵ֥ל בִּתְּךָ֖ הַקְּטַנָּֽה (1)Alternate translation: [in exchange for your younger daughter Rachel as my wife] or [if you will give me your younger daughter Rachel to be my wife]
Genesis 29:19
It is} better for me to give her to you than for me to give her to … man
Quote: ט֚וֹב תִּתִּ֣י אֹתָ֣הּ לָ֔ךְ מִתִּתִּ֥י אֹתָ֖הּ לְאִ֣ישׁ (1)Alternate translation: [I agree to your terms. I would much rather give her to you to marry than give her to some other man]
Stay with me
Quote: שְׁבָ֖ה עִמָּדִֽי (1)Alternate translation: [So stay and work with me]
Genesis 29:20
So Jacob served seven years for Rachel
Quote: וַיַּעֲבֹ֧ד יַעֲקֹ֛ב בְּרָחֵ֖ל שֶׁ֣בַע שָׁנִ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [Then Jacob worked seven years for Laban so that he could have Rachel]
but in his eyes they were like a few days because of his love for her
Quote: וַיִּהְי֤וּ בְעֵינָיו֙ כְּיָמִ֣ים אֲחָדִ֔ים בְּאַהֲבָת֖וֹ אֹתָֽהּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to switch the order of the clauses in this sentence so that the cause is mentioned before the effect (See: the second alternate translation above). Do what is most clear and natural in your language. Alternate translation: [but to him it seemed like only a few days had passed because he loved her so much] or [but he loved her so much that to him the years seemed to pass quickly like only a few days]
Genesis 29:21
Then Jacob said to Laban
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יַעֲקֹ֤ב אֶל־לָבָן֙ (1)Alternate translation: [After that, Jacob requested of Laban]
Give {me} my wife, because my days are completed, so that I may go to her
Quote: הָבָ֣ה אֶת־אִשְׁתִּ֔י כִּ֥י מָלְא֖וּ יָמָ֑י וְאָב֖וֹאָה אֵלֶֽיהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Consider what is the best order for the clauses in this sentence in your language. Also make sure that Jacob’s request here sounds polite in your translation, not rude or demanding. It should also not sound like he was begging or pleading. Alternate translation: [Please let me marry your daughter Rachel now so that I can live with her as my wife, because I have finished my seven years of service for you] or [I have fulfilled the seven years of service that we agreed on, so please let me have your daughter Rachel so that I can marry her and live with her]
Genesis 29:22
Then Laban gathered all the people of the place and made a feast
Quote: וַיֶּאֱסֹ֥ף לָבָ֛ן אֶת־כָּל־אַנְשֵׁ֥י הַמָּק֖וֹם וַיַּ֥עַשׂ מִשְׁתֶּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Consider what is the best way to order these events in your language. Alternate translation: [Then Laban gathered all the local people and held a wedding feast] or [Then Laban prepared a marriage feast and invited everyone who lived in town to attend]
Genesis 29:23
But it happened in the evening
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י בָעֶ֔רֶב (1)Alternate translation: [However this is what happened that evening:]
that he took Leah his daughter and brought her to him
Quote: וַיִּקַּח֙ אֶת־לֵאָ֣ה בִתּ֔וֹ וַיָּבֵ֥א אֹתָ֖הּ אֵלָ֑יו (1)Alternate translation: [Laban took Leah to Jacob instead of Rachel]
and he went
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֖א (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Make sure it is clear in your translation that he refers here to Jacob, not Laban. Alternate translation: [so he] or [so that Jacob]
and he went to her
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֖א אֵלֶֽיהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
Make sure that your translation of he refers here to Jacob, not Laban. See how you translated the euphemism went to in Gen 16:4 (and “go to” in Gen 16:2 and 29:21). Translate this in a way that is natural, clear, and acceptable for reading in public. Alternate translation: [so that he had sexual relations with Leah] or [so he slept with Leah] or [spent the night with her]
Genesis 29:24
And Laban gave
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֤ן לָבָן֙ (1)It is not clear in the Hebrew text when Laban gave Zilpah to Leah, so it is probably best to keep it that way in your translation. Some translations say that Laban “had already given” Zilpah to Leah before the wedding night. However according to Jewish history (outside the Bible), it was on the wedding night that Laban did this as part of his plan to deceive Jacob: Zilpah was younger than Bilhah, so everyone would expect her to be given to Rachel as the younger sister; seeing Zilpah (instead of Bilhah) would help Jacob think that his veiled bride was Rachel. Since we do not know for sure which interpretation is right, it is probably best to be like the Hebrew text and not specify when Laban gave Zilpah to Leah. Some translations put this verse in parentheses because it seems to interrupt the telling of the main events. Alternate translation: [In addition, Laban gave]
to her Zilpah his maidservant, to Leah his daughter
Quote: לָ֔הּ אֶת־זִלְפָּ֖ה שִׁפְחָת֑וֹ לְלֵאָ֥ה בִתּ֖וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [to Leah a female servant named Zilpah]
to be} a maidservant
Quote: שִׁפְחָֽה (1)Alternate translation: [to be her personal attendant] or [to serve her] or [to attend to her]
Genesis 29:25
Then it happened in the morning
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י בַבֹּ֔קֶר (1)Alternate translation: [The next morning]
that behold, she {was} Leah
Quote: וְהִנֵּה־הִ֖וא לֵאָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Translate behold in a way that shows Jacob’s surprise at finding out that he had married Leah instead of Rachel. Also, make sure that your translation of she refers here to Leah, not Zilpah (who was mentioned in verse 24). Alternate translation: [Jacob saw that his new wife was Leah!] or [Jacob was shocked to discover that it was Leah he had married!]
So he said to Laban
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֶל־לָבָ֗ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
Some languages use an honorific title such as “his father-in-law” here now that Jacob is married. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [So he complained to his father-in-law Laban] or [So he rebuked Laban and said]
What {is} this you have done to me
Quote: מַה־זֹּאת֙ עָשִׂ֣יתָ לִּ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
In this verse, Jacob uses rhetorical questions to communicate how angry and upset he is. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language. Also see how you translated this question in Gen 12:18, 20:9, 26:10. Alternate translation: [Why have you treated me like this?]
Was {it} not for Rachel that I served with you
Quote: הֲלֹ֤א בְרָחֵל֙ עָבַ֣דְתִּי עִמָּ֔ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Alternate translation: [You know very well that I worked for you in order to marry Rachel!]
So why have you deceived me
Quote: וְלָ֖מָּה רִמִּיתָֽנִי (1)See how you translated a different word (“deceit”) that has a similar meaning in Gen 27:35. Alternate translation: [So why did you deceive me?] or [Tell me why you tricked me!]
Genesis 29:26
But Laban said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לָבָ֔ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [But Laban said to him] or [Laban responded]
It is not done so in our place
Quote: לֹא־יֵעָשֶׂ֥ה כֵ֖ן בִּמְקוֹמֵ֑נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is necessary to say what the custom is, rather than what it is not. For example, you could say, “Our custom/practice here is to wait until the firstborn/oldest daughter is married before we let the younger daughters/ones get married.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [It is not customary In our land] or [It is not the custom here]
to give the younger
Quote: לָתֵ֥ת הַצְּעִירָ֖ה (1)Alternate translation: [to give the younger daughter in marriage] or [to marry off the younger daughter]
before the firstborn
Quote: לִפְנֵ֥י הַבְּכִירָֽה (1)Alternate translation: [before the oldest one marries]
Genesis 29:27
Fulfill the week of this {one
Quote: מַלֵּ֖א שְׁבֻ֣עַ זֹ֑את (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
For some languages it may be necessary to make explicit the fact that it is assumed that Leah would still remain his wife. Only make this information explicit if it is necessary to avoid wrong meaning. Alternate translation: [So then, complete this week of celebrating your wedding to my daughter Leah]
then we will also give you this {one
Quote: וְנִתְּנָ֨ה לְךָ֜ גַּם־אֶת־זֹ֗את (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [Then our family will also give you my other daughter to marry] or [Then you may also marry my other daughter]
for service that you will serve with me
Quote: בַּעֲבֹדָה֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר תַּעֲבֹ֣ד עִמָּדִ֔י (1)See how you translated serve in verses 15, 18, 20, 21 and 25. Alternate translation: [in exchange for working for me]
for another seven years
Quote: ע֖וֹד שֶֽׁבַע־שָׁנִ֥ים אֲחֵרֽוֹת (1)Alternate translation: [for seven more years]
Genesis 29:28
So Jacob did so
Quote: וַיַּ֤עַשׂ יַעֲקֹב֙ כֵּ֔ן (1)Alternate translation: [So that is what Jacob did:]
and he fulfilled the week {for} that {one
Quote: וַיְמַלֵּ֖א שְׁבֻ֣עַ זֹ֑את (1)See how you translated “fulfill” in verse 27. Alternate translation: [he completed his wedding week with Leah]
Then he gave to him Rachel his daughter as a wife for him
Quote: וַיִּתֶּן־ל֛וֹ אֶת־רָחֵ֥ל בִּתּ֖וֹ ל֥וֹ לְאִשָּֽׁה (1)Alternate translation: [Then Laban gave Jacob his daughter Rachel to marry] or [Then Laban gave his daughter Rachel to Jacob to be his wife]
Genesis 29:29
And Laban gave
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֤ן לָבָן֙ (1)See how you translated verse 24, which is similar to verse 29. Alternate translation: [he also gave] or [In addition, Laban gave]
Bilhah his maidservant to Rachel his daughter
Quote: לְרָחֵ֣ל בִּתּ֔וֹ אֶת־בִּלְהָ֖ה שִׁפְחָת֑וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [his female servant Bilhah to his daughter Rachel] or [Rachel a female servant named Bilhah]
as a maidservant for her
Quote: לָ֖הּ לְשִׁפְחָֽה (1)Alternate translation: [to be her personal servant] or [to serve her]
Genesis 29:30
Then he also went to Rachel
Quote: וַיָּבֹא֙ גַּ֣ם אֶל־רָחֵ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
See how you translated went to in verse 23. Alternate translation: [Then Jacob slept with Rachel]
And he served him
Quote: וַיַּעֲבֹ֣ד עִמּ֔וֹ (1)At this point Jacob begins another seven years of work, but he does not finish the work until Gen 30:25-26. Alternate translation: [Then he worked for Laban]
for another seven years
Quote: ע֖וֹד שֶֽׁבַע־שָׁנִ֥ים אֲחֵרֽוֹת (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 27.
Genesis 29:31
Now Yahweh saw
Quote: וַיַּ֤רְא יְהוָה֙ (1)Alternate translation: [Meanwhile Yahweh knew] or [During that time, Yahweh saw]
that Leah was hated
Quote: כִּֽי־שְׂנוּאָ֣ה לֵאָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
Jacob did not actually hate Leah. Rather, this is hyperbole that emphasizes how much he loved Rachel compared to Leah (verse 30). Alternate translation: [that Leah was loved less than Rachel] or [that Jacob did not love Leah very much]
so he opened her womb
Quote: וַיִּפְתַּ֖ח אֶת־רַחְמָ֑הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Alternate translation: [so he made it so that she could conceive]
but Rachel {was} barren
Quote: וְרָחֵ֖ל עֲקָרָֽה (1)See how you translated barren in Gen 11:30 and 25:21. Alternate translation: [but he did not enable Rachel to have children]
Genesis 29:32
and bore a son
Quote: וַתֵּ֣לֶד בֵּ֔ן (1)Alternate translation: [and had a son]
and she called his name Reuben
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖וֹ רְאוּבֵ֑ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
You could include the meaning of Reuben’s name in your translation (or in a footnote), so that people understand why Leah gave him that name. If you do that, make sure the meaning of Reuben’s name matches the way you translate “looked/seen” later in this verse.
because she said
Quote: כִּ֣י אָֽמְרָ֗ה (1)Alternate translation: [because when he was born she had said]
Because Yahweh has looked on my misery, surely now my husband will love me
Quote: כִּֽי־רָאָ֤ה יְהוָה֙ בְּעָנְיִ֔י כִּ֥י עַתָּ֖ה יֶאֱהָבַ֥נִי אִישִֽׁי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Consider what is the best way to order these clauses in your language. Also see how you translated misery in Gen 16:11. Alternate translation: [Now that Yahweh has seen that I am suffering and has helped me, surely my husband will love me!] or [Surely my husband will love me now, since Yahweh has seen that I am suffering and has helped me]
Genesis 29:33
and bore a son
Quote: וַתֵּ֣לֶד בֵּן֒ (1)Alternate translation: [and had another son]
and she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [so she exclaimed]
Because Yahweh heard that I am hated
Quote: כִּֽי־שָׁמַ֤ע יְהוָה֙ כִּֽי־שְׂנוּאָ֣ה אָנֹ֔כִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
See how you translated hated in verse 31. Also consider whether it is better in your language to use an active or passive verb here. Alternate translation: [Yahweh heard that I am not loved, so]
then he gave to me this {son} also
Quote: וַיִּתֶּן־לִ֖י גַּם־אֶת־זֶ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [he has given me this son too!] or [he has given me another son]
So she called his name
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [So she named that son] or [So she gave him the name]
Simeon
Quote: שִׁמְעֽוֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
If you include the meaning of Simeon’s name in your translation (or in a footnote), make sure it matches the way you translated heard earlier in this verse.
Genesis 29:34
Then she conceived again
Quote: וַתַּ֣הַר עוֹד֮ (1)Alternate translation: [Once again Leah became pregnant]
and bore a son
Quote: וַתֵּ֣לֶד בֵּן֒ (1)Alternate translation: [and had another son]
and she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [She exclaimed]
will be joined to me
Quote: יִלָּוֶ֤ה & אֵלַ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Many languages have an idiom that is similar to the Hebrew idiom and fits well here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [will become attached to me]
because I have born three sons for him
Quote: כִּֽי־יָלַ֥דְתִּי ל֖וֹ שְׁלֹשָׁ֣ה בָנִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to put this clause first in this quote and say, “I have born/had three sons for my husband, so now finally he will become attached to me.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [because I have had three sons for him]
For that {reason
Quote: עַל־כֵּ֥ן (1)Alternate translation: [Because she had said that]
he called his name
Quote: קָרָֽא־שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)Although this phrase could mean that Jacob named Levi, most translations translate this in a general or indefinite way that does not specify who named him. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [he was named]
Levi
Quote: לֵוִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
If you include the meaning of Levi’s name in your translation (or in a footnote), make sure it matches the way you translated be joined earlier in this verse.
Genesis 29:35
Then she conceived again
Quote: וַתַּ֨הַר ע֜וֹד (1)Alternate translation: [Then Leah became pregnant again]
and bore a son
Quote: וַתֵּ֣לֶד בֵּ֗ן (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 34. Alternate translation: [and had a son]
and she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Alternate translation: [She said]
This time I will praise Yahweh
Quote: הַפַּ֨עַם֙ אוֹדֶ֣ה אֶת־יְהוָ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [Now I will praise Yahweh for giving me this son!]
For that {reason
Quote: עַל־כֵּ֛ן (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 34. You may need to translate it in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [Because she praised Yahweh]
she called his name
Quote: קָרְאָ֥ה שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 33. Alternate translation: [she named that son] or [she gave him the name]
Judah
Quote: יְהוּדָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
See how you translated praise earlier in this verse.
Then she stopped bearing
Quote: וַֽתַּעֲמֹ֖ד מִלֶּֽדֶת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Leah had more children at a later time. So it was only temporarily that she stopped having children. Alternate translation: [Then Leah stopped bearing babies for a while] or [After that, Leah did not give birth to any more babies for a while]
Genesis 30
Genesis 30:1
Now Rachel saw that she was not bearing {children} for Jacob
Quote: וַתֵּ֣רֶא רָחֵ֗ל כִּ֣י לֹ֤א יָֽלְדָה֙ לְיַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Alternate translation: [Now when Rachel saw that she was not able to have any children for Jacob]
so Rachel envied her sister
Quote: וַתְּקַנֵּ֥א רָחֵ֖ל בַּאֲחֹתָ֑הּ (1)Alternate translation: [she was envious of her sister Leah]
and she said to Jacob
Quote: וַתֹּ֤אמֶר אֶֽל־יַעֲקֹב֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Use a quote margin here in your language that fits the context well. Alternate translation: [and she pleaded with Jacob]
Give me children, and if not
Quote: הָֽבָה־לִּ֣י בָנִ֔ים וְאִם־אַ֖יִן (1)Alternate translation: [Help me get pregnant! Otherwise]
I will die
Quote: מֵתָ֥ה אָנֹֽכִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
Rachel is using hyperbole (exaggeration) to show how desperate and deeply ashamed she feels about not having children. You could include a footnote here in your translation that explains how in that culture it was considered very shameful for a woman to be barren (See: Gen 30:23). Alternate translation: [I have no reason to live!]
Genesis 30:2
And Jacob’s anger burned against Rachel, and he said
Quote: וַיִּֽחַר־אַ֥ף יַעֲקֹ֖ב בְּרָחֵ֑ל וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Some languages have an idiom that is similar to the Hebrew idiom here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Jacob became very angry with Rachel and said]
Am I in the place of God, who has kept the fruit of the womb from you
Quote: הֲתַ֤חַת אֱלֹהִים֙ אָנֹ֔כִי אֲשֶׁר־מָנַ֥ע מִמֵּ֖ךְ פְּרִי־בָֽטֶן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Jacob uses a rhetorical question here to show that he is upset with Rachel and to strongly emphasize his point. Do what is best in your language to communicate this. Alternate translation: [I am not in the place of God, who has kept you from having children!] or [I am not God! He is the one who has kept you from having children!]
Genesis 30:3
Then she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Rachel replied to him]
Behold my slave woman Bilhah
Quote: הִנֵּ֛ה אֲמָתִ֥י בִלְהָ֖ה (1)Alternate translation: [Here is my servant woman Bilhah] or [You can take my servant woman Bilhah as a wife]
Go to her
Quote: בֹּ֣א אֵלֶ֑יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
See how you translated this euphemism in Gen 16:2. Alternate translation: [Sleep with her]
so that she will bear {children
Quote: וְתֵלֵד֙ (1)Alternate translation: [so that she can give birth to children] or [so that she can have children]
on my knees
Quote: עַל־בִּרְכַּ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The idiom bear children on my knees means that Bilhah’s children would be considered Rachel’s children. It may come from the custom of immediately putting a newborn child on the lap of the father and mother to symbolize that the child belonged to them. Alternate translation: [for me who will sit on my lap] or [as my surrogate]
and I also will be built up from her
Quote: וְאִבָּנֶ֥ה גַם־אָנֹכִ֖י מִמֶּֽנָּה (1)See how you translated built up from her in Gen 16:2. Alternate translation: [so that from her children I too can build a family] or [so that I too can build a family]
Genesis 30:4
And she gave to him Bilhah her maidservant
Quote: וַתִּתֶּן־ל֛וֹ אֶת־בִּלְהָ֥ה שִׁפְחָתָ֖הּ (1)See how you translated maidservant in Gen 29:24, 29. Also see how you translated a different word (“servant woman”) in verse 3 that has the same meaning. Some translations use the same term in both verses to prevent confusion. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [So Rachel gave Jacob her maid Bilhah]
as a wife
Quote: לְאִשָּׁ֑ה (1)Make sure your translation does not sound like Bilhah replaced Rachel as Jacob’s wife; Bilhah was an additional wife. Alternate translation: [as his wife] or [to be a wife for him]
and Jacob went to her
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֥א אֵלֶ֖יהָ יַעֲקֹֽב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
See how you translated “go to” in verse 3 and went to in Gen 16:3. Alternate translation: [and Jacob slept with her]
Genesis 30:5
and bore a son for Jacob
Quote: וַתֵּ֥לֶד לְיַעֲקֹ֖ב בֵּֽן (1)Alternate translation: [and gave birth to a son for Jacob]
Genesis 30:6
and Rachel said
Quote: וַתֹּ֤אמֶר רָחֵל֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Consider whether it is more natural here in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the sentence from verse 5. Alternate translation: [Then Rachel said]
God has vindicated me
Quote: דָּנַ֣נִּי אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)Some translations have “judged me” here. However, make sure your translation of this phrase has a positive meaning (making a decision in Rachel’s favor) and not a negative meaning (condemning her).
and indeed, he has listened to my voice and given to me a son
Quote: וְגַם֙ שָׁמַ֣ע בְּקֹלִ֔י וַיִּתֶּן־לִ֖י בֵּ֑ן (1)Alternate translation: [Yes indeed, he has heard my request and given me a son!]
For that {reason
Quote: עַל־כֵּ֛ן (1)Alternate translation: [Because of that]
she called his name
Quote: קָרְאָ֥ה שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)Make sure it is clear here in your translation that Bilhah’s son is the one being named, not God (who was the subject of the previous sentence). See how you translated called his name in Gen 29:32. Alternate translation: [she called him] or [she gave him the name] or [she named her baby]
Dan
Quote: דָּֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
If you include the meaning of Dan’s name in your translation (or in a footnote), make sure it matches the way you translated “he has vindicated” earlier in this verse.
Genesis 30:7
Then Bilhah the maidservant of Rachel conceived again
Quote: וַתַּ֣הַר ע֔וֹד & בִּלְהָ֖ה שִׁפְחַ֣ת רָחֵ֑ל (1)See how you translated verse 5 which is very similar to verse 7.
and bore a second son for Jacob
Quote: וַתֵּ֕לֶד & בֵּ֥ן שֵׁנִ֖י לְיַעֲקֹֽב (1)Alternate translation: [and gave birth to a second son for Jacob]
Genesis 30:8
So Rachel said
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר רָחֵ֗ל (1)Alternate translation: [So Rachel exclaimed]
With} mighty wrestlings I have wrestled with my sister
Quote: נַפְתּוּלֵ֨י אֱלֹהִ֧ים ׀ נִפְתַּ֛לְתִּי עִם־אֲחֹתִ֖י (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “I have had a mighty/difficult struggle/contest with my sister” or “I have struggled intensely/hard with/against my sister.” That would be the meaning if the Hebrew word “elohim” in this phrase is used as an adjective that means “mighty/powerful.” (2) “I have wrestled/struggled with God because of my sister,” which could refer to a struggle against her sister praying to God for children. That would be the meaning if the word “elohim” in this phrase means “God.”
Indeed I have prevailed
Quote: גַּם־יָכֹ֑לְתִּי (1)Alternate translation: [and I have won!] or [but now I have defeated her!] or [but now I am winning!]
And she called his name
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)See how you translated called his name in verse 6. Alternate translation: [So she called him] or [So she called that son] or [So she gave him the name]
Naphtali
Quote: נַפְתָּלִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
As always, if you include the meaning of a name in your translation or in a footnote, make sure that it matches the text that the name is based on.
Genesis 30:9
Now Leah saw that she had ceased from bearing {children
Quote: וַתֵּ֣רֶא לֵאָ֔ה כִּ֥י עָמְדָ֖ה מִלֶּ֑דֶת (1)See how you translated a similar clause in verse 1. Alternate translation: [When Leah saw that she had stopped bearing children]
so she took Zilpah her maidservant
Quote: וַתִּקַּח֙ אֶת־זִלְפָּ֣ה שִׁפְחָתָ֔הּ (1)Alternate translation: [she took her servant Zilpah to Jacob]
and gave her to Jacob as a wife
Quote: וַתִּתֵּ֥ן אֹתָ֛הּ לְיַעֲקֹ֖ב לְאִשָּֽׁה (1)See how you translated “gave … as a wife” in verse 4. Alternate translation: [and gave her to him as his wife] or [and gave her to Jacob to be another wife for him]
Genesis 30:10
Then Zilpah the maidservant of Leah bore a son for Jacob
Quote: וַתֵּ֗לֶד זִלְפָּ֛ה שִׁפְחַ֥ת לֵאָ֖ה לְיַעֲקֹ֥ב בֵּֽן (1)See how you translated verses 5-8, which are very similar in structure to verses 10-13.
Genesis 30:11
What good fortune
Quote: בגד (1)Alternate translation: [What good luck!] or [I am very lucky!]
So she called his name
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א אֶת־שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [So she called him] or [So she called him] or [So she gave him the name]
Gad
Quote: גָּֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
If you include the meaning of Gad’s name in your translation or in a footnote, make sure it matches the way you translated good fortune earlier in this verse.
Genesis 30:13
How blessed I am
Quote: בְּאָשְׁרִ֕י (1)Although many translations have “happy” in this verse instead of “blessed,” the Hebrew noun (and the verb it is based on) is more general and has to do with a person’s blessed state (which results in joy and happiness). The same Hebrew word is used in Psalm 1:1, and the equivalent Greek word is used in Luke 1:48 and Matthew 5:3-11. Alternate translation: [I am truly blessed!] or [God has greatly blessed me!]
For women will call me blessed
Quote: כִּ֥י אִשְּׁר֖וּנִי בָּנ֑וֹת (1)Alternate translation: [Now other women will say that I am blessed by God] or [Now other women will say that God has blessed me]
So she called his name
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א אֶת־שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [So she named him] or [So she gave him the name]
Asher
Quote: אָשֵֽׁר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
If you include the meaning of Asher’s name in your translation or in a footnote, make sure it matches the way you translated blessed earlier in this verse.
Genesis 30:14
Then in the days of the wheat harvest, Reuben went out
Quote: וַיֵּ֨לֶךְ רְאוּבֵ֜ן בִּימֵ֣י קְצִיר־חִטִּ֗ים (1)Wheat is a type of grain that is ground into flour to make bread, which was one of the people’s main foods. The harvest time for wheat in that part of the world is in March and April. Alternate translation: [One day during …]
and found mandrakes in the field
Quote: וַיִּמְצָ֤א דֽוּדָאִים֙ בַּשָּׂדֶ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
The roots of mandrake plants were used to help people be more fertile. If mandrakes are not known in your language area, you could describe them as a kind of fertility plant. You could also put information about mandrakes in a footnote or glossary. Alternate translation: [and found some love plants called mandrakes in a field] or [in a field and found some love plants there]
and he brought them to Leah his mother
Quote: וַיָּבֵ֣א אֹתָ֔ם אֶל־לֵאָ֖ה אִמּ֑וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [and he took them to his mother] or [and he took the plants to his mother]
Then Rachel said to Leah
Quote: וַתֹּ֤אמֶר רָחֵל֙ אֶל־לֵאָ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [When Rachel found out about the plants, she asked Leah]
Please give to me some of your son’s mandrakes
Quote: תְּנִי־נָ֣א לִ֔י מִדּוּדָאֵ֖י בְּנֵֽךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
See how you translated mandrakes earlier in this verse. Alternate translation: [Please give me some of the love plants that your son found]
Genesis 30:15
Is it a small matter you have taken my husband
Quote: הַמְעַט֙ קַחְתֵּ֣ךְ אֶת־אִישִׁ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Leah uses two rhetorical questions in verse 15 to scold Rachel and show how upset she is with her. Consider whether or not rhetorical questions are the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: [No! It was bad enough that you took my husband from me!] or [You already took my husband from me!]
Then Rachel said
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר רָחֵ֗ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Rachel said to her]
Therefore
Quote: לָכֵן֙ (1)Rachel’s response shows that she realizes that even though Leah was scolding her, she was also bargaining with her. Alternate translation: [Very well]
he may lie with you tonight
Quote: יִשְׁכַּ֤ב עִמָּךְ֙ הַלַּ֔יְלָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
Alternate translation: [I will let him stay with you tonight] or [Jacob can stay with you tonight] or [Jacob can spend tonight with you]
for your son’s mandrakes
Quote: תַּ֖חַת דּוּדָאֵ֥י בְנֵֽךְ (1)See how you translated “in exchange for” in Gen 29:18.
Genesis 30:16
Then Jacob came from the field in the evening
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֨א יַעֲקֹ֣ב מִן־הַשָּׂדֶה֮ בָּעֶרֶב֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Consider where it is best in your language to put the time phrase in this clause. Also see how you translated field in verse 14. Alternate translation: [So as Jacob came back that evening from working in the fields] or [That evening as Jacob was coming home from working in the fields]
and Leah went out to meet him
Quote: וַתֵּצֵ֨א לֵאָ֜ה לִקְרָאת֗וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [Leah came out to greet him]
and said
Quote: וַתֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [and she said to him]
You must come to me
Quote: אֵלַ֣י תָּב֔וֹא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
Alternate translation: [You must lie with me tonight] or [You must spend tonight with me]
because I have surely hired you with my son’s mandrakes
Quote: כִּ֚י שָׂכֹ֣ר שְׂכַרְתִּ֔יךָ בְּדוּדָאֵ֖י בְּנִ֑י (1)See how you translated mandrakes in verses 14 and 15.
So he lay with her during that night
Quote: וַיִּשְׁכַּ֥ב עִמָּ֖הּ בַּלַּ֥יְלָה הֽוּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
Alternate translation: [So that night Jacob slept with her] or [So Jacob spent that night with her]
Genesis 30:17
and God listened to Leah
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמַ֥ע אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶל־לֵאָ֑ה (1)See how you translated listened to in verse 6. Alternate translation: [God heard Leah and answered her prayers] or [God did what Leah had been asking him to do]
and bore a fifth son for Jacob
Quote: וַתֵּ֥לֶד לְיַעֲקֹ֖ב בֵּ֥ן חֲמִישִֽׁי (1)Alternate translation: [and gave birth to a fifth son for Jacob]
Genesis 30:18
Then Leah said
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר לֵאָ֗ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then she exclaimed]
God has given {me} my reward
Quote: נָתַ֤ן אֱלֹהִים֙ שְׂכָרִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
Some languages must translate the noun reward as a verb. Do what is best in your language.
because I gave my maidservant to my husband
Quote: אֲשֶׁר־נָתַ֥תִּי שִׁפְחָתִ֖י לְאִישִׁ֑י (1)Alternate translation: [for giving my servant to my husband as another wife]
So she called his name
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)Make sure the way you translate his name refers here to Leah’s baby son, not to her husband or God (who were both mentioned earlier in this verse). Alternate translation: [So she called him] or [So she gave him the name]
Issachar
Quote: יִשָּׂשכָֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
See how you translated reward earlier in this verse.
Genesis 30:19
and bore a sixth son for Jacob
Quote: וַתֵּ֥לֶד בֵּן־שִׁשִּׁ֖י לְּיַעֲקֹֽב (1)Alternate translation: [and gave birth to a sixth son for Jacob]
Genesis 30:20
And Leah said
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר לֵאָ֗ה (1)Alternate translation: [Then she exclaimed]
God has presented me a good present
Quote: זְבָדַ֨נִי אֱלֹהִ֥ים ׀ אֹתִי֮ זֵ֣בֶד טוֹב֒ (1)Alternate translation: [God has given me a precious gift]
This time my husband will honor me
Quote: הַפַּ֨עַם֙ יִזְבְּלֵ֣נִי אִישִׁ֔י (1)Alternate translation: [so now my husband will honor me]
because I have born six sons for him
Quote: כִּֽי־יָלַ֥דְתִּי ל֖וֹ שִׁשָּׁ֣ה בָנִ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [because I have given him six sons]
So she called his name
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א אֶת־שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)Make sure the way you translate his name refers here to Leah’s baby son, not to her husband (who was mentioned in the previous sentence). Alternate translation: [So she called him] or [So she named that son] or [So she gave him the name]
Zebulun
Quote: זְבֻלֽוּן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
See how you translated honor earlier in this verse.
Genesis 30:21
Then later
Quote: וְאַחַ֖ר (1)Alternate translation: [Sometime later]
she bore a daughter
Quote: יָ֣לְדָה בַּ֑ת (1)Alternate translation: [Leah gave birth to a daughter] or [she had a daughter]
and called her name Dinah
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א אֶת־שְׁמָ֖הּ דִּינָֽה (1)Alternate translation: [and called her Dinah] or [whom she named Dinah]
Genesis 30:22
Then God remembered Rachel
Quote: וַיִּזְכֹּ֥ר אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶת־רָחֵ֑ל (1)Make sure that your translation of this phrase does not imply that God forgot about Rachel. See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 8:1. Alternate translation: [God had kept Rachel in mind]
and God listened to her
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמַ֤ע אֵלֶ֨יהָ֙ אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)See how you translated listened to in verses 6 and 17. Alternate translation: [so he heard her requests] or [so he did what she had been asking him to do]
and opened her womb
Quote: וַיִּפְתַּ֖ח אֶת־רַחְמָֽהּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated this idiom in Gen 29:31. Alternate translation: [and made it so that she could conceive]
Genesis 30:23
Then she conceived
Quote: וַתַּ֖הַר (1)Consider whether it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the sentence from verse 22. Alternate translation: [so that finally she conceived] or [So Rachel became pregnant]
and bore a son
Quote: וַתֵּ֣לֶד בֵּ֑ן (1)Alternate translation: [and gave birth to a son]
and she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [Then she said]
God has taken away my disgrace
Quote: אָסַ֥ף אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶת־חֶרְפָּתִֽי (1)Alternate translation: [God has removed my shame] or [God has made it so that I am no longer barren and humiliated!]
Genesis 30:24
And she called his name
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֧א אֶת־שְׁמ֛וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [She called her son] or [She gave him the name]
Joseph
Quote: יוֹסֵ֖ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
If you include the meaning of Joseph’s name here in your translation or in a footnote, make sure it matches the way you translate what Rachel says next.
saying
Quote: לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to put the last half of verse 24 first in the verse and say, “She also said, “May Yahweh add/give another son to me.” So she named that/her son Joseph, which means “may he add/give another.”” Do what is best in your language.
May Yahweh add another son to me
Quote: יֹסֵ֧ף יְהוָ֛ה לִ֖י בֵּ֥ן אַחֵֽר (1)Alternate translation: [I ask that Yahweh will give me another son] or [I ask Yahweh to give me another son]
Genesis 30:25
Then it happened, after Rachel bore Joseph
Quote: וַיְהִ֕י כַּאֲשֶׁ֛ר יָלְדָ֥ה רָחֵ֖ל אֶת־יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)Alternate translation: [Soon after Rachel gave birth to Joseph]
then Jacob said to Laban
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יַעֲקֹב֙ אֶל־לָבָ֔ן (1)Alternate translation: [Jacob went to Laban and said to him]
Send me off
Quote: שַׁלְּחֵ֨נִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
Make sure that your translation of Jacob’s request here sounds polite, not rude or disrespectful. It should also not sound like he is begging or pleading. See how you translated the same request in Gen 24:54. Alternate translation: [Please send me on my way]
so that I may go to my place and to my land
Quote: וְאֵ֣לְכָ֔ה אֶל־מְקוֹמִ֖י וּלְאַרְצִֽי (1)Alternate translation: [so that I may return to my own home in my own country] or [so that I can go to my homeland]
Genesis 30:26
Give me my wives and my children
Quote: תְּנָ֞ה אֶת־נָשַׁ֣י וְאֶת־יְלָדַ֗י (1)Alternate translation: [Let me have my wives and my children]
for whom I have served you
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר עָבַ֧דְתִּי אֹֽתְךָ֛ בָּהֵ֖ן (1)Alternate translation: [whom I have finished serving you for]
so that I may go
Quote: וְאֵלֵ֑כָה (1)Alternate translation: [so that I may leave with them] or [and let me go with them] or [so that I can take them with me]
For you yourself know
Quote: כִּ֚י אַתָּ֣ה יָדַ֔עְתָּ (1)Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the previous sentence. Alternate translation: [because you yourself know]
my service that I have served you
Quote: אֶת־עֲבֹדָתִ֖י אֲשֶׁ֥ר עֲבַדְתִּֽיךָ (1)Alternate translation: [that I have served you well] or [how well I have served you] or [how faithfully I have worked for you]
Genesis 30:27
Then Laban said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֵלָיו֙ לָבָ֔ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [But Laban responded to Jacob]
Please {stay}, if I have found favor in your eyes
Quote: אִם־נָ֛א מָצָ֥אתִי חֵ֖ן בְּעֵינֶ֑יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Alternate translation: [If you are pleased with me, please stay] or [Please be gracious to me and stay] or [Please do me a favor and do not go]
I have learned by divination
Quote: נִחַ֕שְׁתִּי (1)The word divination refers to trying to find out information by looking at signs (omens) and interpreting them either by God’s power (Gen 44:5, 15) or by witchcraft and false gods (Ezekiel 21:21). Laban may have consulted his household gods (mentioned in Gen 31:19, 30). It could also be that Laban meant that he had figured this out simply by observing how God had blessed him through Jacob’s expert tending of his flocks. Alternate translation: [because I have learned from experience]
that Yahweh has blessed me
Quote: וַיְבָרֲכֵ֥נִי יְהוָ֖ה (1)Alternate translation: [that Yahweh has caused me to prosper]
because of you
Quote: בִּגְלָלֶֽךָ (1)Alternate translation: [because you have been working for me]
Genesis 30:28
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Some translations delete this quote margin, since the same person is still speaking to the same person as in the previous verse. However it could be that there was a pause in the conversation, or the author may want to show that there is a change in topic or emphasize what is said next. So if possible, it is best to keep the quote margin here in your translation. Alternate translation: [Then he said to him] or [Then Laban added]
Name your wages to me, and I will give {them
Quote: נָקְבָ֧ה שְׂכָרְךָ֛ עָלַ֖י וְאֶתֵּֽנָה (1)See how you translated wages in Gen 29:15. Alternate translation: [Tell me what you want your wages to be, and that is what I will give you] or [Tell me what you want me to pay you, and I will give that to you] or [Set your wages, and that is what they will be]
Genesis 30:29
And he said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Jacob said to him]
You yourself know how I have served you
Quote: אַתָּ֣ה יָדַ֔עְתָּ אֵ֖ת אֲשֶׁ֣ר עֲבַדְתִּ֑יךָ (1)See how you translated “you yourself know” in verse 26. Alternate translation: [You yourself know how well I have worked for you]
and how your livestock have been
Quote: וְאֵ֛ת אֲשֶׁר־הָיָ֥ה מִקְנְךָ֖ (1)Alternate translation: [and how well your flocks have fared]
with me
Quote: אִתִּֽי (1)Alternate translation: [ever since I have been taking care of them] or [while I have been tending them]
Genesis 30:30
For {there was} little that was yours before me, and it has prospered to abundance
Quote: כִּ֡י מְעַט֩ אֲשֶׁר־הָיָ֨ה לְךָ֤ לְפָנַי֙ וַיִּפְרֹ֣ץ לָרֹ֔ב (1)Alternate translation: [Before I came, you had very little wealth, but now you are prospering abundantly] or [The few animals that you owned before I came have increased greatly] or [Before I worked for you, you owned very few animals, but now you have a huge number of animals]
and Yahweh has blessed you
Quote: וַיְבָ֧רֶךְ יְהוָ֛ה אֹתְךָ֖ (1)See how you translated blessed in verse 27. Alternate translation: [That is how Yahweh has prospered you] or [Yes, Yahweh has prospered you]
at my feet
Quote: לְרַגְלִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Alternate translation: [because I am here] or [because I have been working for you]
But now, when will I also do something for my household
Quote: וְעַתָּ֗ה מָתַ֛י אֶֽעֱשֶׂ֥ה גַם־אָנֹכִ֖י לְבֵיתִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Jacob uses a rhetorical question here to express his strong feelings. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [But now I need to also provide for my own household]
Genesis 30:31
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [So Laban asked Jacob] or [Laban responded]
What should I give to you
Quote: מָ֣ה אֶתֶּן־לָ֑ךְ (1)Alternate translation: [What do you want me to give you so that you will stay and work for me?] or [What can I give you to persuade you to stay here?]
And Jacob said
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יַעֲקֹב֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Jacob replied]
Do not give anything to me
Quote: לֹא־תִתֶּן־לִ֣י מְא֔וּמָה (1)Alternate translation: [Do not give me anything] or [You do not need to give me anything]
If you will do this thing for me
Quote: אִם־תַּֽעֲשֶׂה־לִּי֙ הַדָּבָ֣ר הַזֶּ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [But if you will do this one thing for me]
I will continue tending your flock{s} watching over {them
Quote: אָשׁ֛וּבָה אֶרְעֶ֥ה צֹֽאנְךָ֖ אֶשְׁמֹֽר (1)See how you translated “watches over” in Gen 28:20. Alternate translation: [I will continue to tend and watch over your flocks:] or [I will keep taking care of your flocks:]
Genesis 30:32
I will pass through all your flock{s} today
Quote: אֶֽעֱבֹ֨ר בְּכָל־צֹֽאנְךָ֜ הַיּ֗וֹם (1)Alternate translation: [Let me go through all your flocks today] or [Today I will go through all your sheep and goats]
to remove from there
Quote: הָסֵ֨ר מִשָּׁ֜ם (1)Alternate translation: [and take away from them]
every speckled and spotted lamb and every dark-colored lamb among the sheep
Quote: כָּל־שֶׂ֣ה ׀ נָקֹ֣ד וְטָל֗וּא וְכָל־שֶׂה־חוּם֙ בַּכְּשָׂבִ֔ים (1)The Hebrew word for speckled refers to small spots, whereas spotted refers to medium-sized and bigger spots. In that part of the world, most sheep were white and most goats were solid brown or black. So Jacob was asking for the irregular animals for himself, including white sheep with dark marks, dark-colored goats with light marks and dark-colored lambs. You could put some of this information in a footnote. Alternate translation: [all the lambs that have speckles or spots, or that are dark-colored]
and the spotted and speckled {young} among the goats
Quote: וְטָל֥וּא וְנָקֹ֖ד בָּעִזִּ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [and all the kid goats that are spotted or speckled]
And that will be my wages
Quote: וְהָיָ֖ה שְׂכָרִֽי (1)Alternate translation: [They will be my wages] or [Those animals will be my wages]
Genesis 30:33
So my righteousness will testify for me in future days
Quote: וְעָֽנְתָה־בִּ֤י צִדְקָתִי֙ בְּי֣וֹם מָחָ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
The phrase my righteousness is referred to here as if it can testify like a person can. Some languages cannot personify righteousness like that. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Also, in the future you will know whether or not I am being honest] or [That way too, in the future it will be easy for everyone to know whether or not I am being honest]
when you go over my wages in front of you
Quote: כִּֽי־תָב֥וֹא עַל־שְׂכָרִ֖י לְפָנֶ֑יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to move this clause earlier in this sentence and say, “Also, in the future, whenever you check the animals you have paid/given me, you will know whether or not I am being honest.” Do what is best in your own language. Alternate translation: [whenever you check the animals you have given me]
any that is not speckled and spotted among the goats and dark-colored among the sheep
Quote: כֹּ֣ל אֲשֶׁר־אֵינֶנּוּ֩ נָקֹ֨ד וְטָל֜וּא בָּֽעִזִּ֗ים וְחוּם֙ בַּכְּשָׂבִ֔ים (1)Alternate translation: [If you see that I have any sheep or goats that are not speckled or spotted or any sheep that are not dark-colored] or [If you see any sheep or goats among my flocks that do not have speckles or spots or any sheep that are not dark-colored]
it was stolen {if it is} with me
Quote: גָּנ֥וּב ה֖וּא אִתִּֽי (1)Alternate translation: [it will be obvious that I stole them from you]
Genesis 30:34
And Laban said
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר לָבָ֖ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Laban said to him]
Behold
Quote: הֵ֑ן (1)Alternate translation: [Yes] or [I agree with that;]
let it be according to your word
Quote: ל֖וּ יְהִ֥י כִדְבָרֶֽךָ (1)Alternate translation: [we will do exactly what you have said]
Genesis 30:35
Then on that day he removed
Quote: וַיָּ֣סַר בַּיּוֹם֩ הַה֨וּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
Make sure your translation of he in this clause refers to Laban, not Jacob (as verse 36 confirms). Also, what Laban does in verse 35 does not follow the agreement he just made with Jacob in verses 32-34. Alternate translation: [But that very day, he removed from his flocks]
the male goats that were streaked and spotted, and all the female goats that were speckled and spotted
Quote: אֶת־הַתְּיָשִׁ֜ים הָֽעֲקֻדִּ֣ים וְהַטְּלֻאִ֗ים וְאֵ֤ת כָּל־הָֽעִזִּים֙ הַנְּקֻדּ֣וֹת וְהַטְּלֻאֹ֔ת (1)Alternate translation: [all the he-goats that had streaks or spots, and all the she-goats that had speckles or spots]
any that {had} white on it
Quote: כֹּ֤ל אֲשֶׁר־לָבָן֙ בּ֔וֹ (1)The goats were normally dark brown or black, so if they had streaks or spots on them those marks would be white. In the Hebrew text, there is a pun (play-on-words) in verses 35 and 37: the name “Laban” means white, so verse 35 literally says that any goats with “Laban” (white) on them became Jacob’s. You could include that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: [any that had any white marks on them]
and all the dark-colored {ones} among the lambs
Quote: וְכָל־ח֖וּם בַּכְּשָׂבִ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [as well as all the lambs that were dark-colored]
Then he gave {them} into the hand of his sons
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֖ן בְּיַד־בָּנָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Alternate translation: [Then he had his sons tend them] or [Then he put his sons in charge of them]
Genesis 30:36
and he put a three-day journey between himself and Jacob
Quote: וַיָּ֗שֶׂם דֶּ֚רֶךְ שְׁלֹ֣שֶׁת יָמִ֔ים בֵּינ֖וֹ וּבֵ֣ין יַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)Alternate translation: [and he and his sons took those animals a three-day walking distance away from Jacob]
And Jacob was tending the rest of Laban’s flock{s
Quote: וְיַעֲקֹ֗ב רֹעֶ֛ה אֶת־צֹ֥אן לָבָ֖ן הַנּוֹתָרֹֽת (1)See how you translated tending in verse 31 and Gen 13:7.
Genesis 30:37
of poplar and almond and plane trees
Quote: לִבְנֶ֛ה & וְל֣וּז וְעֶרְמ֑וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
If the three kinds of trees are not known in your language area, you could transliterate the names of the trees or be more general and leave out the names (if they are too distracting). Alternate translation: [from poplar trees, hazel trees, and plane trees] or [from three different kinds of trees]
and peeled white stripes in them
Quote: וַיְפַצֵּ֤ל בָּהֵן֙ פְּצָל֣וֹת לְבָנ֔וֹת (1)Alternate translation: [and peeled off long pieces of bark] or [and made white stripes on them by stripping off long pieces of bark]
exposing the white that {was} inside the branches
Quote: מַחְשֹׂף֙ הַלָּבָ֔ן אֲשֶׁ֖ר עַל־הַמַּקְלֽוֹת (1)Alternate translation: [which showed the white wood under the bark] or [so that the white wood that was inside the branches was exposed]
Genesis 30:38
Then he put the branches that he had peeled in the troughs, in the water troughs
Quote: וַיַּצֵּ֗ג אֶת־הַמַּקְלוֹת֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר פִּצֵּ֔ל בָּרֳהָטִ֖ים בְּשִֽׁקֲת֣וֹת הַמָּ֑יִם (1)See how you translated “trough” in Gen 24:20. Alternate translation: [Then he set those striped branches in all the stone drinking tubs]
where the flock{s} came to drink
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֩ תָּבֹ֨אןָ הַצֹּ֤אן לִשְׁתּוֹת֙ (1)The way you translate this should allow for the fact that the animals came to the watering troughs repeatedly or regularly throughout the day, not just one time.
in front of the flock{s
Quote: לְנֹ֣כַח הַצֹּ֔אן (1)Alternate translation: [in front of them] or [so that the flocks would see the branches there]
And they were in heat when they came to drink
Quote: וַיֵּחַ֖מְנָה בְּבֹאָ֥ן לִשְׁתּֽוֹת (1)The way you translate this clause will determine whether you begin the next verse with a conjunction (“and” or “so”) or without a conjunction. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [The flocks often mated when they came to the tubs to drink] or [That way, whenever the animals that were ready to breed came to the tubs to drink]
Genesis 30:39
and the flock{s} would mate by the branches
Quote: וַיֶּחֱמ֥וּ הַצֹּ֖אן אֶל־הַמַּקְל֑וֹת (1)Make sure your translation of the verbs in this verse refers to a repeated or habitual activity, not a one-time event. Alternate translation: [so they would mate in front of the branches] or [they would mate where they could see the branches] or [they would see the branches as they were breeding]
and the flock{s} would bear streaked, speckled, and spotted {young
Quote: וַתֵּלַ֣דְןָ הַצֹּ֔אן עֲקֻדִּ֥ים נְקֻדִּ֖ים וּטְלֻאִֽים (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. See how you translated speckled and spotted in verses 32-33 and 35. Also consider what is the most natural way in your language to refer to the flocks in verses 38 and 39. Alternate translation: [As a result, they would bear offspring that were streaked or speckled or spotted]
Genesis 30:40
and he made the faces of the flock{s} look at
Quote: וַ֠יִּתֵּן פְּנֵ֨י הַצֹּ֧אן אֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The Hebrew text uses an idiom here that means Jacob put the marked and unmarked animals together (so that they would mate).
the streaked and all the dark-colored {animals
Quote: עָקֹ֛ד וְכָל־ח֖וּם (1)See how you translated streaked in verses 35 and 39, and how you translated dark-colored in verses 32-33 and 35. Alternate translation: [all the striped animals and dark-colored animals]
in the flock{s} of Laban
Quote: בְּצֹ֣אן לָבָ֑ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
You may need to make it explicit in your translation why Jacob put the unmarked sheep and goats with Laban’s streaked and spotted animals, so that people understand what Jacob was doing.
And he put flocks for himself by themselves
Quote: וַיָּֽשֶׁת־ל֤וֹ עֲדָרִים֙ לְבַדּ֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [In that way, over time he made separate flocks of sheep and goats for himself]
Genesis 30:41
So it happened whenever
Quote: וְהָיָ֗ה בְּכָל (1)This verse includes more details about what Jacob was doing on a regular basis. Alternate translation: [So whenever]
the strong animals
Quote: הַצֹּ֣אן הַמְקֻשָּׁרוֹת֒ (1)Alternate translation: [the best female animals] or [the hardy female sheep and goats]
were in heat
Quote: יַחֵם֮ (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 38. Alternate translation: [were ready to breed]
then Jacob put the branches in the troughs
Quote: וְשָׂ֨ם יַעֲקֹ֧ב אֶת־הַמַּקְל֛וֹת & בָּרֳהָטִ֑ים (1)See how you translated a similar clause in verse 38. Alternate translation: [Jacob set the striped branches in the watering tubs]
before the eyes of the flocks so that they would mate by the branches
Quote: לְעֵינֵ֥י הַצֹּ֖אן & לְיַחְמֵ֖נָּה בַּמַּקְלֽוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal
See how you translated mate and the branches in verse 39. Alternate translation: [in front of those animals so that they would see the branches as they were breeding] or [so that as they were mating, they would see the branches]
Genesis 30:42
But when the animals were weak
Quote: וּבְהַעֲטִ֥יף הַצֹּ֖אן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
Alternate translation: [But whenever the feeble female animals were ready to mate]
he did not put {them} {in
Quote: לֹ֣א יָשִׂ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Alternate translation: [Jacob did not set the branches in the tubs]
the weak {ones
Quote: הָעֲטֻפִים֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Alternate translation: [the young from the feeble animals]
and the strong {ones
Quote: וְהַקְּשֻׁרִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See how you translated strong in verse 41. Alternate translation: [and the young from the hardy animals]
to Jacob
Quote: לְיַעֲקֹֽב (1)Alternate translation: [went to Jacob]
Genesis 30:43
so that the man prospered
Quote: וַיִּפְרֹ֥ץ הָאִ֖ישׁ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, see how you translated prospered in verse 30. Alternate translation: [So Jacob became very wealthy] or [As a result, Jacob became very rich]
and he owned large flock{s
Quote: וַֽיְהִי־לוֹ֙ צֹ֣אן רַבּ֔וֹת (1)For some languages it is more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [and owned large flocks of sheep and goats] or [He owned many sheep and goats]
and maidservants and menservants and camels and donkeys
Quote: וּשְׁפָחוֹת֙ וַעֲבָדִ֔ים וּגְמַלִּ֖ים וַחֲמֹרִֽים (1)See how you translated “maidservants,” “menservants,” “camels,” and donkeys in Gen 12:16 and 24:35.
Genesis 31
Genesis 31:1
Then he heard
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמַ֗ע (1)Alternate translation: [Then one day someone told Jacob]
Jacob has taken everything that {belonged} to our father
Quote: לָקַ֣ח יַעֲקֹ֔ב אֵ֖ת כָּל־אֲשֶׁ֣ר לְאָבִ֑ינוּ (1)Alternate translation: [Jacob has taken for himself all that our father owned]
and from what {belonged} to our father he has gained all this wealth
Quote: וּמֵאֲשֶׁ֣ר לְאָבִ֔ינוּ עָשָׂ֕ה אֵ֥ת כָּל־הַכָּבֹ֖ד הַזֶּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
This clause forms a parallelism with the previous clause and emphasizes Laban’s sons’ complaint against Jacob. The phrase all this wealth especially refers to all the livestock that Jacob had gained during the years he worked for Laban.
Genesis 31:2
And Jacob saw
Quote: וַיַּ֥רְא יַעֲקֹ֖ב (1)Alternate translation: [Jacob also saw]
the face of Laban, and behold, he was not with him as yesterday {and} three days ago
Quote: אֶת־פְּנֵ֣י לָבָ֑ן וְהִנֵּ֥ה אֵינֶ֛נּוּ עִמּ֖וֹ כִּתְמ֥וֹל שִׁלְשֽׁוֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The clause he was not with him is used here as an idiom that means Laban was no longer happy with Jacob or that he no longer liked him. Consider whether your language has a similar idiom that fits well here. Alternate translation: [that Laban no longer looked at him in a friendly way like he did previously] or [that Laban was no longer happy with him like he was previously] or [that Laban no longer acted kind toward him the way he did in the past]
Genesis 31:3
Then Yahweh said to Jacob
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יְהוָה֙ אֶֽל־יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then Yahweh commanded Jacob]
Go back to the land of your fathers and to your relatives
Quote: שׁ֛וּב אֶל־אֶ֥רֶץ אֲבוֹתֶ֖יךָ וּלְמוֹלַדְתֶּ֑ךָ (1)Alternate translation: [Return to the land where your ancestors lived and where your other relatives also live]
and I will be with you
Quote: וְאֶֽהְיֶ֖ה עִמָּֽךְ (1)See how you translated this clause in Gen 26:3 and how you translated similar clauses in Gen 26:8, 24; 28:15. Alternate translation: [and I will stay with you and bless you]
Genesis 31:4
Then Jacob sent and called for Rachel and Leah to the field
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלַ֣ח יַעֲקֹ֔ב וַיִּקְרָ֖א לְרָחֵ֣ל וּלְלֵאָ֑ה הַשָּׂדֶ֖ה (1)See how you translated sent and called for in Gen 27:42. Alternate translation: [So Jacob sent for Rachel and Leah to come to the pasture] or [Then Jacob sent a message to Rachel and Leah that they should meet him in the pasture]
to his flock{s
Quote: אֶל־צֹאנֽוֹ (1)Alternate translation: [where he was tending his flocks of sheep and goats]
Genesis 31:5
Then he said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לָהֶ֗ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Consider whether in your language it is necessary to make explicit that Rachel and Leah had come to Jacob before he spoke to them. Alternate translation: [There he told them]
the face of your father, that he is not toward me as yesterday {and} three days ago
Quote: אֶת־פְּנֵ֣י אֲבִיכֶ֔ן כִּֽי־אֵינֶ֥נּוּ אֵלַ֖י כִּתְמֹ֣ל שִׁלְשֹׁ֑ם (1)See how you translated a similar clause in verse 2. Alternate translation: [that your father no longer looks at me in a kind way like he did in the past] or [that your father is no longer happy with me as he was previously] or [that your father no longer acts friendly toward me the way he did before]
but the God of my father
Quote: וֵֽאלֹהֵ֣י אָבִ֔י (1)See how you translated “the God of …” in Gen 28:13. Alternate translation: [but the God whom my father worships] or [but the God who takes care of my father]
has been with me
Quote: הָיָ֖ה עִמָּדִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom “be with you” in verse 3. Alternate translation: [has stayed with me and has blessed me]
Genesis 31:6
And you know
Quote: וְאַתֵּ֖נָה יְדַעְתֶּ֑ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual
In the Hebrew text, you is an emphatic pronoun. Also, some languages have a special dual pronoun that fits here well. Do what is best in your language.
that with all my might I have served your father
Quote: כִּ֚י בְּכָל־כֹּחִ֔י עָבַ֖דְתִּי אֶת־אֲבִיכֶֽן (1)Alternate translation: [that I have served your father with all my might] or [that I have tried as hard as I could to serve your father well] or [how I have worked for your father as faithfully as I could]
Genesis 31:7
but your father has deceived me
Quote: וַאֲבִיכֶן֙ הֵ֣תֶל בִּ֔י (1)Alternate translation: [but in spite of that, he has deceived me] or [but yet he has treated me unfairly]
and changed my wages ten times
Quote: וְהֶחֱלִ֥ף אֶת־מַשְׂכֻּרְתִּ֖י עֲשֶׂ֣רֶת מֹנִ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [and ten times he has changed what he said that he would pay me]
However, God has not allowed him to harm me
Quote: וְלֹֽא־נְתָנ֣וֹ אֱלֹהִ֔ים לְהָרַ֖ע עִמָּדִֽי (1)In this context, harm especially refers to financial harm, but it can also include physical harm. Alternate translation: [However, God has not permitted him to harm me] or [But God has kept him from hurting me] or [But God has protected me so that he could not hurt me]
Genesis 31:8
If he said like this
Quote: אִם־כֹּ֣ה יֹאמַ֗ר (1)The examples Jacob is describing in verse 8 took place repeatedly (as verse 7 indicates). Alternate translation: [For example, if he told me]
The speckled {animals} will be your wages
Quote: נְקֻדִּים֙ יִהְיֶ֣ה שְׂכָרֶ֔ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Consider whether it is best in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote. Also, see how you translated speckled in Gen 30:32, 33, 35, 39. Alternate translation: [that only the speckled animals would be my pay] or [that he would pay me by giving me only the animals with speckles on them]
then all the flock{s} bore
Quote: וְיָלְד֥וּ כָל־הַצֹּ֖אן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Alternate translation: [then all the female animals in the flocks gave birth to] or [then all the female sheep and goats gave birth to]
speckled {young
Quote: נְקֻדִּ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [speckled babies] or [young that were speckled]
But if he said like this
Quote: וְאִם־כֹּ֣ה יֹאמַ֗ר (1)Alternate translation: [But if he said to me] or [Then if he changed his mind and told me]
The streaked {ones} will be your wages
Quote: עֲקֻדִּים֙ יִהְיֶ֣ה שְׂכָרֶ֔ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
See how you translated streaked in Gen 30:35, 39, 40. Alternate translation: [that only the striped animals would be my pay] or [that he would pay me by giving me only the animals with stripes on them]
then all the flock{s} bore
Quote: וְיָלְד֥וּ כָל־הַצֹּ֖אן (1)Alternate translation: [then all the females in the flocks gave birth to] or [then all the female sheep and goats had]
streaked {young
Quote: עֲקֻדִּֽים (1)Alternate translation: [striped young] or [young that had stripes on them]
Genesis 31:9
the livestock of your father
Quote: אֶת־מִקְנֵ֥ה אֲבִיכֶ֖ם (1)The term livestock usually includes all kinds of domestic animals, but in this context it refers to the sheep and goats that Jacob was taking care of for Laban. Alternate translation: [many of the animals that belonged to your father]
and gave {them} to me
Quote: וַיִּתֶּן־לִֽי (1)Alternate translation: [and gave them to me instead]
Genesis 31:10
And it happened
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י (1)Alternate translation: [One night]
in the season
Quote: בְּעֵת֙ (1)Alternate translation: [during the time] or [during the time of year]
the flock{s} were in heat
Quote: יַחֵ֣ם הַצֹּ֔אן (1)Alternate translation: [that the female sheep and goats were in heat] or [that the flocks of sheep and goats were mating]
and I lifted my eyes and saw in a dream that, behold
Quote: וָאֶשָּׂ֥א עֵינַ֛י וָאֵ֖רֶא בַּחֲל֑וֹם וְהִנֵּ֤ה (1)The word behold emphasizes what Jacob saw and might also express that he was surprised at what he saw. Alternate translation: [I had a dream and in the dream I looked around and saw that]
the he-goats that were mounting the flock{s
Quote: הָֽעַתֻּדִים֙ הָעֹלִ֣ים עַל־הַצֹּ֔אן (1)Some languages have special terms for male and female goats or sheep. For example, billy goats and nanny goats (for male and female goats) and rams and ewes (for male and female sheep). Choose terms in your language that are natural and well-known.
were} streaked, speckled, and spotted
Quote: עֲקֻדִּ֥ים נְקֻדִּ֖ים וּבְרֻדִּֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
It may be more natural to put this phrase earlier and say, “… saw that the male goats and sheep that were streaked, speckled, and spotted were the only ones that were mating with the female goats and sheep.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [were streaked speckled, or spotted] or [had a striped, speckled, or blotched pattern in their fur]
Genesis 31:11
Then an angel of God said to me in the dream, ‘Jacob
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר אֵלַ֜י מַלְאַ֧ךְ הָאֱלֹהִ֛ים בַּחֲל֖וֹם יַֽעֲקֹ֑ב (1)In some languages it is more natural to put in the dream earlier in this clause. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated an angel of God in Gen 21:17.
and I said
Quote: וָאֹמַ֖ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [and I responded]
Behold me
Quote: הִנֵּֽנִי (1)See how you translated this phrase in Gen 22:1 and 27:11. Alternate translation: [Here I am!] or [Yes, sir?] or [Yes, I am listening]
Genesis 31:12
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [The angel said]
Please lift up your eyes
Quote: שָׂא־נָ֨א עֵינֶ֤יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated this idiom in Gen 22:13. Also see how you translated Gen 22:2, another passage where Yahweh uses Please. Alternate translation: [Look around you] or [Look carefully]
and see
Quote: וּרְאֵה֙ (1)Alternate translation: [and observe that]
all the he-goats that are mounting the flock{s
Quote: כָּל־הָֽעַתֻּדִים֙ הָעֹלִ֣ים עַל־הַצֹּ֔אן (1)See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 10.
are} streaked, speckled, and spotted
Quote: עֲקֻדִּ֥ים נְקֻדִּ֖ים וּבְרֻדִּ֑ים (1)See how you translated this phrase in verses 8 and 10. Alternate translation: [are streaked speckled, or spotted] or [have a streaked speckled, or spotted pattern in their fur]
because I have seen
Quote: כִּ֣י רָאִ֔יתִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Sometimes an angel says I as God’s representative, but in this context, it seems to be Yahweh himself (in the form of an angel) who is speaking to Jacob (See verse 13). That information could be put in a footnote, and you could make “Yahweh” explicit in the text to make that clear. Alternate translation: [I, Yahweh, have caused that to happen, because I have observed]
all that Laban is doing to you
Quote: אֵ֛ת כָּל־אֲשֶׁ֥ר לָבָ֖ן עֹ֥שֶׂה לָּֽךְ (1)Alternate translation: [all the wrong things that Laban has done to you] or [all the ways that Laban has been treating you badly]
Genesis 31:13
where you anointed a pillar
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר מָשַׁ֤חְתָּ & מַצֵּבָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
See how you translated “poured oil on top of” in Gen 28:38 and pillar in Gen 28:18, 22. Alternate translation: [where you poured olive oil on top of a memorial pillar to dedicate the place to me]
where you vowed a vow to me
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר נָדַ֥רְתָּ לִּ֛י & נֶ֑דֶר (1)See how you translated vowed a vow in Gen 28:20. Alternate translation: [and where you made a vow to me]
Now get up, go out from this land
Quote: עַתָּ֗ה ק֥וּם צֵא֙ מִן־הָאָ֣רֶץ הַזֹּ֔את (1)The phrase get up means that Jacob should immediately get ready to go and then leave; see how you translated this phrase in Gen 27:43. Alternate translation: [So now get up and leave this region immediately] or [Now go at once from this land]
and return to
Quote: וְשׁ֖וּב אֶל (1)Alternate translation: [and travel back to]
the land of your birth
Quote: אֶ֥רֶץ מוֹלַדְתֶּֽךָ (1)The Hebrew word for birth in this phrase can also be translated as “relatives” here (as in verse 3). See how you translated this phrase in Gen 24:7. Alternate translation: [the land where you were born] or [the land where your relatives live] or [your native land]
Genesis 31:14
Then Rachel replied, and Leah, and they said to him
Quote: וַתַּ֤עַן רָחֵל֙ וְלֵאָ֔ה וַתֹּאמַ֖רְנָה ל֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then Rachel and Leah responded to him] or [Rachel and Leah replied to him]
Is there still for us a portion or inheritance
Quote: הַע֥וֹד לָ֛נוּ חֵ֥לֶק וְנַחֲלָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This rhetorical question expects the answer “no.” It also expresses Rachel’s and Leah’s strong emotion and emphasizes that there is nothing for them to inherit from their father. Consider whether or not a rhetorical question fits well here in your language. Alternate translation: [We no longer have any part in the inheritance] or [We will never inherit anything]
Genesis 31:15
Are we not regarded by him
Quote: הֲל֧וֹא & נֶחְשַׁ֥בְנוּ ל֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This rhetorical question expects the answer “yes” and expresses Rachel’s and Leah’s anger at how their father treats them. Consider whether or not it is natural in your language to use a rhetorical question here. Alternate translation: [It is obvious that he regards us] or [He obviously is treating us]
as} foreigners
Quote: נָכְרִיּ֛וֹת (1)Make sure that the punctuation you use here fits with how you translate this rhetorical question. Alternate translation: [like outsiders and not family] or [as if we were foreigners instead of family]
For he sold us
Quote: כִּ֣י מְכָרָ֑נוּ (1)This sentence is an example of how Laban treated his daughters like foreigners. Alternate translation: [After all, he sold us to you]
and he has indeed completely eaten up
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אכַל גַּם־אָכ֖וֹל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The phrase eaten up is used here as an idiom that means Laban had spent or kept for himself all the wealth he had gained from Jacob’s 14 years of working for him. Many languages have a similar idiom that could be used here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [and then he used up all]
our silver
Quote: אֶת־כַּסְפֵּֽנוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
In that culture at that time, silver was a currency used to buy and sell things. Alternate translation: [the wealth that should have been ours] or [the money that belonged to us]
Genesis 31:16
For all the wealth that God took from our father
Quote: כִּ֣י כָל־הָעֹ֗שֶׁר אֲשֶׁ֨ר הִצִּ֤יל אֱלֹהִים֙ מֵֽאָבִ֔ינוּ (1)Alternate translation: [In fact, all the abundance of flocks that God has taken from our father] or [In reality, all the flocks that made our father wealthy and that God has taken from him]
belongs} to us and to our children
Quote: לָ֥נוּ & וּלְבָנֵ֑ינוּ (1)Alternate translation: [actually belongs to us and our children] or [should have been given to us and our children anyway]
So now, do
Quote: וְעַתָּ֗ה & עֲשֵֽׂה (1)The words So now introduce Rachel and Leah’s conclusion that is based on what they just said. Do what is best in your language to communicate that. Alternate translation: [So go ahead and do] or [So we totally agree that you should do]
all that God has said to you
Quote: כֹּל֩ אֲשֶׁ֨ר אָמַ֧ר אֱלֹהִ֛ים אֵלֶ֖יךָ (1)Alternate translation: [everything God has commanded you to do] or [exactly what God told you to do]
Genesis 31:17
So Jacob got up
Quote: וַיָּ֖קָם יַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)See how you translated “get up” in verse 13. Alternate translation: [Then Jacob immediately got packed for the journey]
and put his sons and his wives on the camels
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֛א אֶת־בָּנָ֥יו וְאֶת־נָשָׁ֖יו עַל־הַגְּמַלִּֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Jacob took all his children with him, not just his sons. Alternate translation: [and helped his wives and his sons mount up onto the camels]
Genesis 31:18
Then he drove
Quote: וַיִּנְהַ֣ג (1)Alternate translation: [Then he led] or [Then he started driving]
all his livestock and all his property that he had acquired, the livestock in his possession that he had acquired
Quote: אֶת־כָּל־מִקְנֵ֗הוּ וְאֶת־כָּל־רְכֻשׁוֹ֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר רָכָ֔שׁ מִקְנֵה֙ קִנְיָנ֔וֹ אֲשֶׁ֥ר רָכַ֖שׁ (1)The word livestock is general here and includes all of Jacob’s animals. Alternate translation: [the camels and all his other livestock and along with them, he also took all the other possessions that he had acquired]
in Paddan Aram
Quote: בְּפַדַּ֣ן אֲרָ֑ם (1)Be consistent here with how you translated “the land/region of Paddan Aram” in Gen 25:20. Alternate translation: [while living in the land of Paddan Aram]
to go to Isaac his father, to the land of Canaan
Quote: לָב֛וֹא אֶל־יִצְחָ֥ק אָבִ֖יו אַ֥רְצָה כְּנָֽעַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to put this clause earlier in this verse and say, “Then he started driving/herding the camels and all his other animals to/toward the land/region of Canaan where his father Isaac lived. He took with him all his possessions that he had accumulated, including all the livestock that he had acquired/accumulated while living in the land/region of Paddan Aram.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [to go to Canaan, to the home of his father Isaac] or [to the land of Canaan, where his father Isaac lived]
Genesis 31:19
Now Laban
Quote: וְלָבָ֣ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
Make sure it is clear in your translation that the events in verse 19 happened before Jacob and his family had left. Also, for some languages it is more natural to first make “the Aramean” explicit here in verse 19 rather than wait until verse 20. Do what is best in your language.
had gone to shear his sheep
Quote: הָלַ֔ךְ לִגְזֹ֖ז אֶת־צֹאנ֑וֹ (1)In that culture, sheep wool was very important since it was used to make clothing and blankets. The process of shearing many sheep would have taken several days. You could include some of this information in a footnote. Alternate translation: [had gone away for several days to cut the wool off his sheep]
so Rachel stole
Quote: וַתִּגְנֹ֣ב רָחֵ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Consider whether it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [While he was gone, Rachel entered his tent and took]
the idols that {belonged} to her father
Quote: אֶת־הַתְּרָפִ֖ים אֲשֶׁ֥ר לְאָבִֽיהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
These idols were statues made of wood or precious metals. They were small enough to be used in a private home. In this chapter these statues are referred to as idols (in verses 19, 34, 35 when the author refers to them) and “gods” (in quotes in verses 30 and 32 when Laban or Jacob talk about them). If it is confusing in your language to switch back and forth between these two terms, you could use “gods” throughout this chapter, since Laban would not have called them idols, and Jacob would not have used that term in his presence. However, if possible, it is best to translate the two terms the way the Hebrew text has them. Alternate translation: [his family gods] or [the gods that he had]
Genesis 31:20
and Jacob stole the heart of
Quote: וַיִּגְנֹ֣ב יַעֲקֹ֔ב אֶת־לֵ֥ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [and Jacob tricked] or [At the same time, Jacob tricked]
Laban the Aramean
Quote: לָבָ֖ן הָאֲרַמִּ֑י (1)If you used Aramean earlier (verse 19), it may not be natural here. Do what is best in your language. Also, see how you translated this phrase in Gen 25:20.
by not informing him that he was fleeing
Quote: עַל־בְּלִי֙ הִגִּ֣יד ל֔וֹ כִּ֥י בֹרֵ֖חַ הֽוּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Alternate translation: [by not telling him that he was fleeing] or [by leaving secretly without informing him that he was leaving]
Genesis 31:21
And he fled
Quote: וַיִּבְרַ֥ח הוּא֙ (1)This statement summarizes an event that already happened (See verses 18 and 20). Make sure your translation of this verse does not sound like Jacob left a second time. To make this clear you could say, “After Jacob and his family ran away with everything that they owned, they quickly crossed the Euphrates River and headed toward the hill country of Gilead.” Alternate translation: [So Jacob and his family ran away]
and all
Quote: וְכָל (1)Alternate translation: [with all] or [and took all]
that {belonged} to him
Quote: אֲשֶׁר־ל֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Make sure that your choice of pronouns throughout this verse fits with how you translate the beginning of this sentence. Alternate translation: [that belonged to them] or [that he had]
And he got up and crossed the River
Quote: וַיָּ֖קָם וַיַּעֲבֹ֣ר אֶת־הַנָּהָ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The Euphrates River was also called the River because it was large and well-known. It was about 50 miles (80 kilometers) from Haran, where Laban lived. This information could be put in a footnote. Alternate translation: [He quickly crossed the Euphrates River]
and set his face {toward
Quote: וַיָּ֥שֶׂם אֶת־פָּנָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Alternate translation: [and went in the direction of]
the mountain{s} of Gilead
Quote: הַ֥ר הַגִּלְעָֽד (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could refer to: (1) mountains or hill country; or (2) a specific mountain (“Mount Gilead”). Alternate translation: [the mountain region called Gilead] or [the hill country called Gilead]
Genesis 31:22
And on the third day it was told to Laban
Quote: וַיֻּגַּ֥ד לְלָבָ֖ן בַּיּ֣וֹם הַשְּׁלִישִׁ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
Alternate translation: [Three days after they had left, someone informed Laban] or [Three days later Laban found out]
that Jacob had fled
Quote: כִּ֥י בָרַ֖ח יַעֲקֹֽב (1)See how you translated “fleeing” and fled in verses 20-21. Alternate translation: [that Jacob and his family had run away]
Genesis 31:23
So he took his relatives with him
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֤ח אֶת־אֶחָיו֙ עִמּ֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [So Laban gathered some of his relatives]
and pursued after him a seven-day journey
Quote: וַיִּרְדֹּ֣ף אַחֲרָ֔יו דֶּ֖רֶךְ שִׁבְעַ֣ת יָמִ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [and followed after Jacob and his household for seven days]
and overtook him
Quote: וַיַּדְבֵּ֥ק אֹת֖וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [until they overtook them] or [until they caught up with him]
in the mountain{s} of Gilead
Quote: בְּהַ֥ר הַגִּלְעָֽד (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 21. Alternate translation: [in the mountain region called Gilead] or [in the hill country called Gilead]
Genesis 31:24
But God came to Laban the Aramean in a dream that night
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֧א אֱלֹהִ֛ים אֶל־לָבָ֥ן הָאֲרַמִּ֖י בַּחֲלֹ֣ם הַלָּ֑יְלָה (1)See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 20:3. Also see how you translated Laban the Aramean in verse 20. Alternate translation: [Then that same night God appeared to Laban in a dream] or [That night Laban had a dream and in it God appeared to him]
Watch yourself that you do not speak with Jacob either good or bad
Quote: הִשָּׁ֧מֶר לְךָ֛ פֶּן־תְּדַבֵּ֥ר עִֽם־יַעֲקֹ֖ב מִטּ֥וֹב עַד־רָֽע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
God is warning Laban not to say or do anything that would harm Jacob (See verse 29). Alternate translation: [Be careful that you do not say or do anything to Jacob to try to stop him from leaving] or [Be sure that you do not harm Jacob in any way]
Genesis 31:25
And Laban overtook Jacob
Quote: וַיַּשֵּׂ֥ג לָבָ֖ן אֶֽת־יַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
Make sure that the way you translate this clause does not sound like Laban overtook Jacob a second time. This is referring to what already happened in verse 23. See how you translated overtook there. Alternate translation: [So when Laban overtook Jacob]
and Jacob had pitched his tent{s
Quote: וְיַעֲקֹ֗ב תָּקַ֤ע אֶֽת־אָהֳלוֹ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
Make sure it is clear in your translation that Jacob had already pitched his tents before Laban arrived. Also see how you translated “pitched his tent” in Gen 12:8 and 26:25. Alternate translation: [Jacob and his family had already put up his tents] or [Jacob and his family had already set up camp]
in the mountain{s
Quote: בָּהָ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
For some languages it is clearer and more natural to make Gilead explicit here (rather than later in this verse). Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated mountains of Gilead in verses 21 and 23. Alternate translation: [in the mountain region of Gilead]
so Laban with his relatives
Quote: וְלָבָ֛ן & אֶת־אֶחָ֖יו (1)Alternate translation: [so Laban and all his relatives that were with him]
pitched {theirs
Quote: תָּקַ֥ע (1)Alternate translation: [also put up their tents] or [also camped]
in the mountain{s} of Gilead
Quote: בְּהַ֥ר הַגִּלְעָֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
If you made Gilead explicit earlier in this verse in your translation, it may not be necessary to repeat it here. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 31:26
Then Laban said to Jacob
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר לָבָן֙ לְיַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
See how you translated a similar quote margin in 29:25, when the roles were reversed and Jacob confronted Laban. Alternate translation: [Then the next day Laban came to Jacob and complained to Jacob] or [The next day Laban met with Jacob and rebuked Jacob and said to him]
What have you done
Quote: מֶ֣ה עָשִׂ֔יתָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Laban uses a rhetorical question here to express his anger at Jacob. Do what is best in your language to communicate that. Alternate translation: [Why have you done this?] or [What you have done is wrong!]
And you have stolen my heart
Quote: וַתִּגְנֹ֖ב אֶת־לְבָבִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom “stole the heart of” in verse 20. Alternate translation: [You have tricked me] or [You have acted deceitfully toward me]
and carried away my daughters
Quote: וַתְּנַהֵג֙ אֶת־בְּנֹתַ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
Laban uses exaggeration to show he is angry and to try to make Jacob feel guilty for what he did. Alternate translation: [and dragged away my daughters with you] or [and forced my daughters to leave with you]
like captives of the sword
Quote: כִּשְׁבֻי֖וֹת חָֽרֶב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
Alternate translation: [as if you had captured them in battle!]
Genesis 31:27
Why did you secretly flee and deceive me
Quote: לָ֤מָּה נַחְבֵּ֨אתָ֙ לִבְרֹ֔חַ וַתִּגְנֹ֖ב אֹתִ֑י (1)Alternate translation: [Why did you trick me and secretly run away] or [Why did you deceive me by secretly running away]
and not tell me
Quote: וְלֹא־הִגַּ֣דְתָּ לִּ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Verse 27 is one long rhetorical question in the Hebrew text that expresses Laban’s anger at Jacob. For some languages it is better to break it up into two or more sentences. Do what is best in your language, and make sure that the punctuation fits well. Alternate translation: [without telling me you were leaving!]
For I would have sent you with joy and with songs
Quote: וָֽאֲשַׁלֵּחֲךָ֛ בְּשִׂמְחָ֥ה וּבְשִׁרִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
Make sure it is clear in your translation that the events in this clause are contrary-to-fact (hypothetical). Alternate translation: [If I had known, I would have held a feast and sent you on your way, singing joyful songs together] or [If I had known, I could have sent you on your way by having a feast and singing joyful songs together]
with tambourine{s} and with lyre{s
Quote: בְּתֹ֥ף וּבְכִנּֽוֹר (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, “If I had known, we could have held a feast and sung joyful songs and danced together, with tambourines and lyres playing, before sending you on your way.” Do what is best in your language. Also, see how you translated “lyres/harps” in Gen 4:21. Alternate translation: [with tambourines and harps playing!] or [with the music of musical instruments!]
Genesis 31:28
And you did not let me kiss my grandchildren and my daughters
Quote: וְלֹ֣א נְטַשְׁתַּ֔נִי לְנַשֵּׁ֥ק לְבָנַ֖י וְלִבְנֹתָ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages, it may be more natural to mention the daughters before the children. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated kiss in Gen 27:26-27. Alternate translation: [You did not even let me kiss my daughters and my grandchildren goodbye before they left!]
Now you have acted foolishly by doing {that
Quote: עַתָּ֖ה הִסְכַּ֥לְתָּֽ עֲשֽׂוֹ (1)Alternate translation: [What you have done is very stupid!] or [You acted foolishly when you left secretly like that!]
Genesis 31:29
It is in the power of my hand to do harm to you
Quote: יֶשׁ־לְאֵ֣ל יָדִ֔י לַעֲשׂ֥וֹת עִמָּכֶ֖ם רָ֑ע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
The pronoun you is plural here, so it probably refers to Jacob and everyone in his household. Alternate translation: [I and my men have the ability to harm all of you]
but last night the God of your father
Quote: וֵֽאלֹהֵ֨י אֲבִיכֶ֜ם אֶ֣מֶשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it may be more natural to put this time phrase later and say “ … said to me in a dream last night.” Do what is best in your language. See how you translated a similar phrase (“the God of my father”) in verse 5.
said to me, saying, ‘Keep yourself from speaking with Jacob either good or bad
Quote: אָמַ֧ר אֵלַ֣י לֵאמֹ֗ר הִשָּׁ֧מֶר לְךָ֛ מִדַּבֵּ֥ר עִֽם־יַעֲקֹ֖ב מִטּ֥וֹב עַד־רָֽע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
For some languages it is necessary to make this embedded quote an indirect quote. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated a similar quote in verse 24. Alternate translation: [warned me to not harm you in any way]
Genesis 31:30
So now, you have surely gone
Quote: וְעַתָּה֙ הָלֹ֣ךְ הָלַ֔כְתָּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
Begin this verse in a way which shows that Laban is introducing a new topic. Also notice that you shifts to singular here in verse 30. Alternate translation: [Now then, I know that you left] or [Now, I know that you ran away]
because you greatly long
Quote: כִּֽי־נִכְסֹ֥ף נִכְסַ֖פְתָּה (1)Alternate translation: [because you longed so much] or [because you were very homesick]
for the house of your father
Quote: לְבֵ֣ית אָבִ֑יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This phrase refers to the people in Jacob’s father’s household and other relatives living nearby. Alternate translation: [to return home to your father and other relatives]
Why did you steal my gods
Quote: לָ֥מָּה גָנַ֖בְתָּ אֶת־אֱלֹהָֽי (1)Alternate translation: [but what is the reason that you stole my gods?]
Genesis 31:31
Then Jacob answered and said to Laban
Quote: וַיַּ֥עַן יַעֲקֹ֖ב וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לְלָבָ֑ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Jacob answered him] or [Then Jacob told Laban]
Because I was afraid
Quote: כִּ֣י יָרֵ֔אתִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Make sure it is clear here in your translation that Jacob is answering Laban’s question in verse 27, not his question in verse 30.
because I said
Quote: כִּ֣י אָמַ֔רְתִּי (1)Consider whether it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [I told myself that if you knew]
that perhaps you would seize your daughters from me
Quote: פֶּן־תִּגְזֹ֥ל אֶת־בְּנוֹתֶ֖יךָ מֵעִמִּֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
Make sure you translate this sentence in a way that shows it is hypothetical. Also see how you translated “seized” in Gen 21:25.
Genesis 31:32
Whomever you find your gods with
Quote: עִ֠ם אֲשֶׁ֨ר תִּמְצָ֣א אֶת־אֱלֹהֶיךָ֮ (1)See how you translated gods in verse 30. Alternate translation: [However we did not steal your gods. In fact, if you find your gods with anyone here]
will not live
Quote: לֹ֣א יִֽחְיֶה֒ (1)Alternate translation: [that person will be put to death as punishment for stealing them!]
In front of our relatives
Quote: נֶ֣גֶד אַחֵ֧ינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
Make sure your translation of this phrase refers to both Jacob’s and Laban’s relatives. Alternate translation: [So with our relatives as witnesses]
observe for yourself what {is} with me
Quote: הַֽכֶּר־לְךָ֛ מָ֥ה עִמָּדִ֖י (1)Alternate translation: [search for yourself what I have with me here]
and take {what belongs} to you
Quote: וְקַֽח־לָ֑ךְ (1)Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [and take whatever you find that is yours]
Now Jacob did not know that Rachel had stolen them
Quote: וְלֹֽא־יָדַ֣ע יַעֲקֹ֔ב כִּ֥י רָחֵ֖ל גְּנָבָֽתַם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
Translate this background information in a way that is clear and natural in your language. Also see how you translated “stole” in verses 19 and 30.
Genesis 31:33
Then Laban went into the tent of Jacob
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֨א לָבָ֜ן בְּאֹ֥הֶל יַעֲקֹ֣ב (1)See how you translated tent in verse 25.
and into the tent of Leah
Quote: וּבְאֹ֣הֶל לֵאָ֗ה (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
and into the tent of the two slave women
Quote: וּבְאֹ֛הֶל שְׁתֵּ֥י הָאֲמָהֹ֖ת (1)Consider again how you translated “slave/servant woman” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 20:17; 21:10, 12-13; 30:3; 31:33. Alternate translation: [and in the tent where the two maidservants lived]
but he did not find {anything
Quote: וְלֹ֣א מָצָ֑א (1)Alternate translation: [but he did not find his gods]
Genesis 31:34
Now Rachel had taken the idols and put them inside the camel’s saddle
Quote: וְרָחֵ֞ל לָקְחָ֣ה אֶת־הַתְּרָפִ֗ים וַתְּשִׂמֵ֛ם בְּכַ֥ר הַגָּמָ֖ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
This kind of saddle was used as a seat and also had compartments or bags for carrying things. Make sure it is clear in your translation that Rachel had hidden the idols before Laban entered her tent. Also see how you translated idols in verse 19. Alternate translation: [But Rachel had put the idols inside her camel saddlebag to hide them] or [But Rachel had hidden the idols inside her camel saddlebag]
and was sitting on them
Quote: וַתֵּ֣שֶׁב עֲלֵיהֶ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [and she was sitting on the gods]
And Laban felt throughout the entire tent
Quote: וַיְמַשֵּׁ֥שׁ לָבָ֛ן אֶת־כָּל־הָאֹ֖הֶל (1)Alternate translation: [Laban rummaged through everything else in the tent, but] or [So when Laban searched everywhere else in her tent]
but he did not find {them
Quote: וְלֹ֥א מָצָֽא (1)For some languages, it may be better to change the order of the clauses in this sentence and say, “So Laban was not able to find them, even though he searched her tent thoroughly.” Alternate translation: [he could not find anything] or [he did not find his idols]
Genesis 31:35
And she said to her father
Quote: וַתֹּ֣אמֶר אֶל־אָבִ֗יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Rather Rachel had said to him]
Do not let it burn in the eyes of my lord
Quote: אַל־יִ֨חַר֙ בְּעֵינֵ֣י אֲדֹנִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
Make sure you translate my lord in a way that is appropriate for a daughter to show respect to her father; it should not sound like she was Laban’s slave or servant. The word burn is used here as an idiom that means to be angry. Consider whether your language has a similar idiom that would work well here. Also see how you translated this idiom in Gen 30:2. Alternate translation: [Please do not be angry at me, sir] or [Sir please do not be angry at me]
that I am not able to stand up in your presence
Quote: כִּ֣י ל֤וֹא אוּכַל֙ לָק֣וּם מִפָּנֶ֔יךָ (1)Alternate translation: [that I am not able to stand up to greet you]
because the way of women {is} on me
Quote: כִּי־דֶ֥רֶךְ נָשִׁ֖ים לִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
Translate this in a way that will not offend or embarrass people when this is read aloud in public. Alternate translation: [because it is that time of the month when I feel weak] or [because I am having my monthly cycle]
Genesis 31:36
Then it burned within Jacob
Quote: וַיִּ֥חַר לְיַעֲקֹ֖ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom “burn” in verse 35.
and he disputed with Laban, and Jacob responded and said to Laban
Quote: וַיָּ֣רֶב בְּלָבָ֑ן וַיַּ֤עַן יַעֲקֹב֙ וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לְלָבָ֔ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [and contended with him and said] or [and rebuked him by saying to him]
What {is} my crime
Quote: מַה־פִּשְׁעִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Jacob’s rhetorical questions in this verse show that he was angry at Laban. Do what is best in your language to communicate his anger. Alternate translation: [Tell me what crime I have done]
What {is} my sin, that you have hotly pursued after me
Quote: מַ֣ה חַטָּאתִ֔י כִּ֥י דָלַ֖קְתָּ אַחֲרָֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Alternate translation: [How have I sinned against you so that you have a reason to pursue me so intensely] or [Tell me what sin I have committed against you that gives you the right to pursue after me!]
Genesis 31:37
Since you have felt through all my things
Quote: כִּֽי־מִשַּׁ֣שְׁתָּ אֶת־כָּל־כֵּלַ֗י (1)See how you translated felt through in verse 34. Alternate translation: [Now that you have felt through all my things]
what have you found from any of the things of your house? Put {it} here
Quote: מַה־מָּצָ֨אתָ֙ מִכֹּ֣ל כְּלֵי־בֵיתֶ֔ךָ שִׂ֣ים כֹּ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Alternate translation: [did you find anything that anyone took from your household? If so, bring it here] or [show us what you have found that belongs to you! If you found anything, put it here]
in front of my relatives and your relatives
Quote: נֶ֥גֶד אַחַ֖י וְאַחֶ֑יךָ (1)Alternate translation: [where all our relatives can see it]
and let them judge
Quote: וְיוֹכִ֖יחוּ (1)Alternate translation: [so that they can judge whether you or I am right!] or [and they will judge which one of us is right!]
Genesis 31:38
These twenty years I {have been} with you
Quote: זֶה֩ עֶשְׂרִ֨ים שָׁנָ֤ה אָנֹכִי֙ עִמָּ֔ךְ (1)Alternate translation: [For the past twenty years I have worked for you!]
Your ewes and your she-goats
Quote: רְחֵלֶ֥יךָ וְעִזֶּ֖יךָ (1)Alternate translation: [During those years your female sheep and goats]
did not miscarry
Quote: לֹ֣א שִׁכֵּ֑לוּ (1)Alternate translation: [bore their young without any problems]
and I have not eaten rams from your flocks
Quote: וְאֵילֵ֥י צֹאנְךָ֖ לֹ֥א אָכָֽלְתִּי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Make sure your translation does not sound here like Jacob is talking about eating animals while they are still alive; the animals would be killed and cooked first. Alternate translation: [and I have never killed and eaten any rams from your flocks] or [and I never took any animals from your flocks to eat]
Genesis 31:39
I did not bring torn {animals} to you
Quote: טְרֵפָה֙ לֹא־הֵבֵ֣אתִי אֵלֶ֔יךָ (1)Alternate translation: [And whenever wild animals killed any of your animals, I never brought the dead animal to you to show I was innocent]
I bore the loss of it myself
Quote: אָנֹכִ֣י אֲחַטֶּ֔נָּה (1)Normally it was the owner of the flocks (not the shepherds) who took care of the expense when an animal was killed or stolen. You could put that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: [Rather I paid for that loss myself] or [Rather I replaced them at my own expense]
You required it from my hand
Quote: מִיָּדִ֖י תְּבַקְשֶׁ֑נָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Consider what is the best way to translate this idiom in your language. Alternate translation: [You also made me pay for]
those} stolen by day and {those} stolen by night
Quote: גְּנֻֽבְתִ֣י י֔וֹם וּגְנֻֽבְתִ֖י לָֽיְלָה (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: [any animals that got stolen by thieves, whether it happened in the day or at night]
Genesis 31:40
There I was
Quote: הָיִ֧יתִי (1)Alternate translation: [That is how it was for me!] or [That was my life]
In the day, heat devoured me
Quote: בַיּ֛וֹם אֲכָלַ֥נִי חֹ֖רֶב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
Consider whether or not you can talk about heat and frost in your language as if they could harm Jacob the way a person could harm him. Alternate translation: [During the day the heat of the sun pounded me]
and in the night the frost, so that … fled
Quote: וְקֶ֣רַח בַּלָּ֑יְלָה וַתִּדַּ֥ד (1)Alternate translation: [and at night I suffered from the cold, so that I could hardly sleep] or [and during the nights it was so cold that I could hardly sleep]
Genesis 31:41
That {is how it was} for me
Quote: זֶה־לִּ֞י (1)Alternate translation: [That is what it was like for me]
twenty years in your house
Quote: עֶשְׂרִ֣ים שָׁנָה֮ בְּבֵיתֶךָ֒ (1)Alternate translation: [for the twenty years that I worked for you]
I served you fourteen years for your two daughters
Quote: עֲבַדְתִּ֜יךָ אַרְבַּֽע־עֶשְׂרֵ֤ה שָׁנָה֙ בִּשְׁתֵּ֣י בְנֹתֶ֔יךָ (1)Alternate translation: [For fourteen years I worked for you in exchange for marrying your two daughters]
and six years for your flock{s
Quote: וְשֵׁ֥שׁ שָׁנִ֖ים בְּצֹאנֶ֑ךָ (1)Alternate translation: [and for six more years I worked for you to earn flocks of sheep and goats from you]
and you changed my wages ten times
Quote: וַתַּחֲלֵ֥ף אֶת־מַשְׂכֻּרְתִּ֖י עֲשֶׂ֥רֶת מֹנִֽים (1)See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 7. Alternate translation: [even though you changed my wages ten times] or [even though ten times you changed what you said you would pay me]
Genesis 31:42
If the God of my father, the God of Abraham and the Fear of Isaac, … not
Quote: לוּלֵ֡י אֱלֹהֵ֣י אָבִי֩ אֱלֹהֵ֨י אַבְרָהָ֜ם וּפַ֤חַד יִצְחָק֙ (1)The phrase the Fear of Isaac is a title for God that is ambiguous in Hebrew (and English). It could mean: (1) “the One/God whom Isaac fears/reveres” or (2) “Isaac’s God whom people/others are afraid/terrified of.” The interpretation that is not used in your translation could be put in a footnote. Make sure it is clear in your translation that Jacob is only talking about one God in this verse, not two or three. Also notice that my father and Isaac both refer to Jacob’s father Isaac, not two different people. Alternate translation: [If God, the Awesome One, whom my father Isaac and grandfather Abraham serve] or [If God, whom my ancestors Abraham and Isaac serve and fear]
If … had not been with me
Quote: לוּלֵ֡י & הָ֣יָה לִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
Make sure it is clear in your translation that the events in this sentence are contrary-to-fact (hypothetical) and imply that God actually had been with Jacob, so that Laban did not send him away empty-handed. Alternate translation: [had not been with me protecting me and guiding me]
surely now you would have sent me away
Quote: כִּ֥י עַתָּ֖ה & שִׁלַּחְתָּ֑נִי (1)Alternate translation: [you would certainly be sending me away now] or [there is no question that I would now be leaving here]
empty-handed
Quote: רֵיקָ֣ם (1)Alternate translation: [without anything at all]
God has seen my affliction
Quote: אֶת־עָנְיִ֞י & רָאָ֥ה אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)Alternate translation: [But God knows how much I have suffered under you] or [But God knows how much you have oppressed me]
and the toil of my palms
Quote: וְאֶת־יְגִ֧יעַ כַּפַּ֛י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Alternate translation: [and the hard work I did with my hands for you]
and he judged {you} last night
Quote: וַיּ֥וֹכַח אָֽמֶשׁ (1)See how you translated “judge” in verse 37. It may be necessary to translate this word in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [so last night he judged against you in my favor]
Genesis 31:43
And Laban responded and said to Jacob
Quote: וַיַּ֨עַן לָבָ֜ן וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֶֽל־יַעֲקֹ֗ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Laban replied to Jacob]
The daughters {are} my daughters, and the children {are} my grandchildren
Quote: הַבָּנ֨וֹת בְּנֹתַ֜י וְהַבָּנִ֤ים בָּנַי֙ (1)Alternate translation: [These are my daughters and my grandchildren]
and the flock{s} {are} my flock{s
Quote: וְהַצֹּ֣אן צֹאנִ֔י (1)Alternate translation: [and these flocks also belong to me]
And everything that you see {belongs} to me
Quote: וְכֹ֛ל אֲשֶׁר־אַתָּ֥ה רֹאֶ֖ה לִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
Laban is lying or exaggerating here to make it sound like he was wronged, when actually he is the one who was dishonest in his dealings with Jacob. Alternate translation: [In fact, everything that you see here is mine!] or [Yes, everything that is here with you is actually mine!]
But what can I do today about these daughters of mine or about their children whom they have born
Quote: וְלִבְנֹתַ֞י מָֽה־אֶֽעֱשֶׂ֤ה לָאֵ֨לֶּה֙ הַיּ֔וֹם א֥וֹ לִבְנֵיהֶ֖ן אֲשֶׁ֥ר יָלָֽדוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Laban uses this rhetorical question to express his emotions and emphasize that there is nothing that he can do. Consider whether or not a rhetorical question fits well here in your language. Alternate translation: [But there is nothing I can do now to keep my daughters and grandchildren from leaving!]
Genesis 31:44
So now, come, let us cut a covenant, I and you
Quote: וְעַתָּ֗ה לְכָ֛ה נִכְרְתָ֥ה בְרִ֖ית אֲנִ֣י וָאָ֑תָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it may be more natural to put I and you earlier in the sentence. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated So now in verse 16 and cut a covenant in Gen 26:28. Alternate translation: [So then, you and I should make a peace covenant with each other] or [So I invite you to make a covenant with me]
and let it be
Quote: וְהָיָ֥ה (1)The subject of the Hebrew verb in this phrase is masculine singular, so it cannot refer to “covenant,” which is feminine singular. It is probably best to translate this phrase in a general way. Alternate translation: [and let there be]
a witness between me and you
Quote: לְעֵ֖ד בֵּינִ֥י וּבֵינֶֽךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
If your language has a dual pronoun for us, you could use it in this verse. Also, if your language distinguishes exclusive and inclusive pronouns, you could use the inclusive form of us here. Alternate translation: [a memorial to remind us of our covenant] or [something to remind us to keep that covenant]
Genesis 31:45
So Jacob took a stone
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֥ח יַעֲקֹ֖ב אָ֑בֶן (1)See how you translated stone in Gen 28:18.
and set it up {as} a pillar
Quote: וַיְרִימֶ֖הָ מַצֵּבָֽה (1)See how you translated pillar in verse 13 and set it up as a pillar in Gen 28:18, 22. Alternate translation: [and stood it up on its end as a monument to mark the place where they made their covenant] or [and set it up as a reminder stone to mark the place as special]
Genesis 31:46
Then Jacob said to his relatives
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יַעֲקֹ֤ב לְאֶחָיו֙ (1)These relatives would have included Jacob’s sons, as well as Laban and his men who had come with him. See how you translated relatives in verses 23, 25, 32, 37. Alternate translation: [Then Jacob told his relatives]
Gather stones
Quote: לִקְט֣וּ אֲבָנִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-politeness
Make sure that your translation of Jacob’s request sounds polite here, not rude or demanding, but also not begging. Alternate translation: [Please gather some stones]
So they took stones and made a heap
Quote: וַיִּקְח֥וּ אֲבָנִ֖ים וַיַּֽעֲשׂוּ־גָ֑ל (1)Alternate translation: [So they all brought stones and put them in a large pile]
Then they ate there
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אכְלוּ שָׁ֖ם (1)Make sure your translation does not sound like Jacob ate without Laban and his men. Alternate translation: [Then they ate a meal together there]
by the heap
Quote: עַל־הַגָּֽל (1)Alternate translation: [near the heap of stones] or [next to the mound of stones]
Genesis 31:47
And Laban called it
Quote: וַיִּקְרָא־ל֣וֹ לָבָ֔ן (1)Alternate translation: [Laban gave the heap the Aramaic name]
Jegar Sahadutha
Quote: יְגַ֖ר שָׂהֲדוּתָ֑א (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
If the meaning of Jegar Sahadutha and Galeed is included in your translation or in a footnote, be sure that it fits with how you translate “heap/pile/mound” in verses 46 and 48, and “witness” in verse 48.
but Jacob called it Galeed
Quote: וְיַֽעֲקֹ֔ב קָ֥רָא ל֖וֹ גַּלְעֵֽד (1)Alternate translation: [whereas Jacob gave it the Hebrew name Galeed, which has the same meaning]
Genesis 31:48
And Laban said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לָבָ֔ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then Laban said to Jacob] or [Laban said to Jacob]
This heap {is} a witness between me and you today
Quote: הַגַּ֨ל הַזֶּ֥ה עֵ֛ד בֵּינִ֥י וּבֵינְךָ֖ הַיּ֑וֹם (1)Alternate translation: [This pile of stones is to remind us to keep our peace covenant] or [Starting today, when we see this mound of stones, we will remember our peace covenant]
For that {reason
Quote: עַל־כֵּ֥ן (1)Alternate translation: [That is the reason]
he called its name Galeed
Quote: קָרָֽא־שְׁמ֖וֹ גַּלְעֵֽד (1)The phrase he called its name is used here in a general way that means “they/people call it”; the pronoun he does not refer here to Laban. Make sure that is clear in your language. Alternate translation: [they call it Galeed] or [that place is called Galeed]
Genesis 31:49
It is} also Mizpah
Quote: וְהַמִּצְפָּה֙ (1)Alternate translation: [It was also named Mizpah] or [People also call the place, Mizpah]
because he said
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר אָמַ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Make sure that your translation of he refers here to Laban.
May Yahweh watch between me and you
Quote: יִ֥צֶף יְהוָ֖ה בֵּינִ֣י וּבֵינֶ֑ךָ (1)Alternate translation: [May Yahweh watch each of us] or [May Yahweh keep watch on us]
when we are hidden one from the other
Quote: כִּ֥י נִסָּתֵ֖ר אִ֥ישׁ מֵרֵעֵֽהוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
The pronoun we is inclusive here and includes both Laban and Jacob. Some languages have a dual pronoun that fits here well. Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [to make sure we keep our covenant while we are away from each other]
Genesis 31:50
If you afflict my daughters
Quote: אִם־תְּעַנֶּ֣ה אֶת־בְּנֹתַ֗י (1)See how you translated afflict in Gen 15:13 and 16:6, and how you translated a related word (“affliction”) in verse 42. Alternate translation: [If you oppress my daughters]
or if you take wives besides my daughters
Quote: וְאִם־תִּקַּ֤ח נָשִׁים֙ עַל־בְּנֹתַ֔י (1)Alternate translation: [or if you marry other women besides them]
even though} there is not someone with us, behold
Quote: אֵ֥ין אִ֖ישׁ עִמָּ֑נוּ רְאֵ֕ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual
See how you translated the pronoun “we” in verse 49.
God {is} a witness between me and you
Quote: אֱלֹהִ֥ים עֵ֖ד בֵּינִ֥י וּבֵינֶֽךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
In his role as witness, God would also punish anyone who broke the covenant. You could make this information explicit in your translation or put it in a footnote. Alternate translation: [God always sees us and will punish us if we break our covenant]
Genesis 31:51
Behold
Quote: הִנֵּ֣ה (1)Alternate translation: [See] or [Look at]
this heap
Quote: הַגַּ֣ל הַזֶּ֗ה (1)See how you translated heap in verses 46 and 48. Alternate translation: [this mound of stones]
and behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּה֙ (1)Alternate translation: [and see] or [and look at]
the pillar
Quote: הַמַצֵּבָ֔ה (1)See how you translated pillar in verse 45. Alternate translation: [this memorial stone]
which I set up between me and you
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר יָרִ֖יתִי בֵּינִ֥י וּבֵינֶֽךָ (1)Jacob set up the stone as a pillar, but Laban and Jacob, along with their relatives, worked together to make the pile of stones. Alternate translation: [which I helped set up between us to remind us to keep our peace treaty] or [which we set up between us to remind us about our peace covenant]
Genesis 31:52
This heap {is} a witness and the pillar {is} a witness
Quote: עֵ֚ד הַגַּ֣ל הַזֶּ֔ה וְעֵדָ֖ה הַמַּצֵּבָ֑ה (1)See how you translated witness in verses 44 and 48. Alternate translation: [This heap of stones is a reminder and this pillar is also a witness] or [This mound of stones and this memorial both remind us]
that I will not pass by this heap to you
Quote: אִם־אָ֗נִי לֹֽא־אֶֽעֱבֹ֤ר אֵלֶ֨יךָ֙ אֶת־הַגַּ֣ל הַזֶּ֔ה (1)Laban and Jacob could go to each other’s homes in peace but not to harm each other. Alternate translation: [that I will never go past this heap to harm you]
and that you will not pass by this heap and this pillar to me, to do harm
Quote: וְאִם־אַ֠תָּה לֹא־תַעֲבֹ֨ר אֵלַ֜י אֶת־הַגַּ֥ל הַזֶּ֛ה וְאֶת־הַמַּצֵּבָ֥ה הַזֹּ֖את לְרָעָֽה (1)Alternate translation: [and that you will never go past this pile and this memorial to harm me]
Genesis 31:53
the God of Abraham
Quote: אֱלֹהֵ֨י אַבְרָהָ֜ם (1)See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 28:13. Alternate translation: [May the God whom your grandfather Abraham served]
and the gods of Nahor, the gods of their father
Quote: וֵֽאלֹהֵ֤י נָחוֹר֙ & אֱלֹהֵ֖י אֲבִיהֶ֑ם (1)Abraham trusted in Yahweh, the one and only true God (Gen 15:6). Terah worshiped other gods (Joshua 24:2), and so did Laban (verses 19, 30), which suggests that Nahor served the same gods that his father Terah served, and then taught his son Laban to do the same thing. In spite of that, many translations still capitalize God all three times here in verse 53. Be consistent with how you spelled Nahor in the book of Genesis. See Gen 11:22-25, 29; 12:26-27; 22:20, 24, 28; 24:9, 15, 24, 47; 29:5; 31:53. Alternate translation: [and the gods that my grandfather Nahor and his father Terah worshiped]
May … judge between us
Quote: יִשְׁפְּט֣וּ בֵינֵ֔ינוּ (1)Alternate translation: [judge between us and punish us if we break our covenant]
Then Jacob swore
Quote: וַיִּשָּׁבַ֣ע יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Jacob refused to swear by the gods of Nahor and Terah. See how you translated swore in Gen 26:31, and compare that to how you translated a related phrase (“vowed a vow”) in 31:13. Alternate translation: [But Jacob swore] or [But Jacob vowed a vow]
by the Fear of his father Isaac
Quote: בְּפַ֖חַד אָבִ֥יו יִצְחָֽק (1)See how you translated “the Fear of Isaac” in verse 42. Alternate translation: [by the God whom his father Isaac feared that he would keep their treaty] or [with the Fear of his father Isaac as his witness]
Genesis 31:54
and Jacob sacrificed a sacrifice on the mountain
Quote: וַיִּזְבַּ֨ח יַעֲקֹ֥ב זֶ֨בַח֙ בָּהָ֔ר (1)Make sure your translation does not sound like Jacob burned the animal while it was still alive. Also see how you translated sacrificed in Gen 22:13. Alternate translation: [and he offered an animal sacrifice to God on an altar on a hill] or [and Jacob burned the body of an animal on an altar as a sacrifice to God on a hill]
Then he called his relatives to eat bread
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א לְאֶחָ֖יו לֶאֱכָל־לָ֑חֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
In the Bible, bread is often used as an idiom that refers to food in general. In this context, it was a meal that they shared together. Make sure that is clear in your translation.
Then they ate bread and spent the night on the mountain
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אכְלוּ לֶ֔חֶם וַיָּלִ֖ינוּ בָּהָֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
As in Genesis 26:30, eating together was an important part of the covenant or treaty process, since it shows unity and close relationship, as if they were part of the same family. Some of that information could be included in a footnote. Alternate translation: [Then after they had eaten the meal, they spent the night there on the hill]
Genesis 31:55
Then in the morning Laban got up early
Quote: וַיַּשְׁכֵּ֨ם לָבָ֜ן בַּבֹּ֗קֶר (1)See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 28:18. Alternate translation: [The next morning Laban got up early]
and kissed his grandchildren and his daughters
Quote: וַיְנַשֵּׁ֧ק לְבָנָ֛יו וְלִבְנוֹתָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
It was a Hebrew custom for relatives and close friends to greet each other with a kiss on each cheek. Only make this information explicit here if it is necessary to prevent wrong meaning. Alternate translation: [said goodbye to his daughters and grandchildren and kissed them on the cheeks]
Then Laban left and returned to his place
Quote: וַיֵּ֛לֶךְ וַיָּ֥שָׁב לָבָ֖ן לִמְקֹמֽוֹ (1)Alternate translation: [Then Laban and his men left from there and returned home] or [Then he left from there with his men and went back home]
Genesis 32
Genesis 32:1
Then Jacob went on his way
Quote: וְיַעֲקֹ֖ב הָלַ֣ךְ לְדַרְכּ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
You can make implied information explicit in your translation if it is necessary to make the meaning accurate and clear. Alternate translation: [Meanwhile Jacob also left from there and continued on his journey home with his family]
and angels of God met him
Quote: וַיִּפְגְּעוּ־ב֖וֹ מַלְאֲכֵ֥י אֱלֹהִֽים (1)Translate met in a way that allows for the fact that no conversation is recorded between the angels and Jacob and that the angels were probably not hostile; for example, they may have been sent by God to escort and protect him. Alternate translation: [and some angels from God encountered him]
Genesis 32:2
And when he saw them, Jacob said
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יַעֲקֹב֙ כַּאֲשֶׁ֣ר רָאָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Make sure that you refer to Jacob and the angels here in a way that is accurate and natural in your language. Alternate translation: [When Jacob saw the angels, he said in surprise]
So he called the name of that place Mahanaim
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֛א שֵֽׁם־הַמָּק֥וֹם הַה֖וּא מַֽחֲנָֽיִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
If you include the meaning of the name Mahanaim in your translation or in a footnote, be sure it matches the way you translated God’s camp earlier in the verse so that it is clear why Jacob gave the place that name. Also see how you translated he called the name of that place in Gen 28:19.
Genesis 32:3
Then Jacob sent messengers before him
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלַ֨ח יַעֲקֹ֤ב מַלְאָכִים֙ לְפָנָ֔יו (1)Alternate translation: [Then Jacob sent some of his servants ahead of him to deliver a message to his brother Esau]
to the land of Seir
Quote: אַ֥רְצָה שֵׂעִ֖יר (1)Alternate translation: [who was living in the land of Seir]
the country of Edom
Quote: שְׂדֵ֥ה אֱדֽוֹם (1)Alternate translation: [that is, the land of Edom] or [which was also called the land of Edom]
Genesis 32:4
And he commanded them, saying
Quote: וַיְצַ֤ו אֹתָם֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [As they left, he instructed them]
This {is what} you will say to my lord, to Esau
Quote: כֹּ֣ה תֹאמְר֔וּן לַֽאדֹנִ֖י לְעֵשָׂ֑ו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
Jacob uses my lord and your servant in verse 4 and 5 to show his brother Esau great respect. Do this in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [I want you to tell Esau whom I highly respect:]
This {is what} your servant Jacob says
Quote: כֹּ֤ה אָמַר֙ עַבְדְּךָ֣ יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Verses 4 and 5 have two levels of embedded quotes. Some languages need to use indirect quotes for one or both of those levels; for example, “Your servant Jacob wants you to know that he has been sojourning/staying with your uncle Laban all this time.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [This is a message from Jacob who wants to serve you:]
I have been sojourning with Laban and have remained there until now
Quote: עִם־לָבָ֣ן גַּ֔רְתִּי וָאֵחַ֖ר עַד־עָֽתָּה (1)Alternate translation: [Since we last saw each other, I have been living with Uncle Laban]
Genesis 32:5
And I have
Quote: וַֽיְהִי־לִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Consider whether it is more natural to use a direct or indirect quote here in your language. Alternate translation: [I now have] or [Also tell him that I own]
cattle and donkey{s}, flock{s
Quote: שׁ֣וֹר וַחֲמ֔וֹר צֹ֖אן (1)See how you translated donkeys and flocks in Gen 12:16. Alternate translation: [many cattle, donkeys, and flocks of sheep and goats]
and menservant{s} and maidservant{s
Quote: וְעֶ֣בֶד וְשִׁפְחָ֑ה (1)See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 12:16. Alternate translation: [as well as many men and women slaves]
And I have sent {messengers} to speak with my lord
Quote: וָֽאֶשְׁלְחָה֙ לְהַגִּ֣יד לַֽאדֹנִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
If you use indirect quotes in this section, make sure each part fits with the other parts, especially in your choice of pronouns. It is helpful if you read your translation aloud to check for accuracy and naturalness. Alternate translation: [Sir, I sent these messengers to you]
so that I will find favor in your eyes
Quote: לִמְצֹא־חֵ֖ן בְּעֵינֶֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom “found favor in your eyes” in Gen 30:27. Alternate translation: [hoping that you will be gracious to me when I arrive] or [so that when we see each other you will be pleased with me and welcome me]
Genesis 32:6
saying
Quote: לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [and said to him] or [and informed him]
We went to your brother, to Esau
Quote: בָּ֤אנוּ אֶל־אָחִ֨יךָ֙ אֶל־עֵשָׂ֔ו (1)Alternate translation: [We went to your brother Esau and told him your message] or [We delivered the message to your brother Esau]
And also, he is coming to meet you
Quote: וְגַם֙ הֹלֵ֣ךְ לִקְרָֽאתְךָ֔ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, notice that the word meet is neutral in this context and does not imply whether or not Esau had hostile intent against Jacob. Alternate translation: [and he is already headed here to meet you]
and 400 men with him
Quote: וְאַרְבַּע־מֵא֥וֹת אִ֖ישׁ עִמּֽוֹ (1)Alternate translation: [and there are also 400 men coming with him!] or [and he has 400 men with him!]
Genesis 32:7
And Jacob was exceedingly afraid
Quote: וַיִּירָ֧א יַעֲקֹ֛ב מְאֹ֖ד (1)Alternate translation: [When Jacob heard the report, he was terrified]
and it was distressing for him
Quote: וַיֵּ֣צֶר ל֑וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [and very worried]
so he divided the people who {were} with him and the flock{s} and the herd{s} and the camels into two camps
Quote: וַיַּ֜חַץ אֶת־הָעָ֣ם אֲשֶׁר־אִתּ֗וֹ וְאֶת־הַצֹּ֧אן וְאֶת־הַבָּקָ֛ר וְהַגְּמַלִּ֖ים לִשְׁנֵ֥י מַחֲנֽוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Consider what phrase order for this sentence is best in your language. Alternate translation: [So he divided all the people and animals that were with him into two large camps including his family, his servants and all his flocks of sheep and goats, herds of cattle and camels]
Genesis 32:8
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Alternate translation: [He was thinking]
If Esau comes to one camp and strikes them
Quote: אִם־יָב֥וֹא עֵשָׂ֛ו אֶל־הַמַּחֲנֶ֥ה הָאַחַ֖ת וְהִכָּ֑הוּ (1)Alternate translation: [If Esau and his men come and attack the people in one camp]
then the camp that is left will escape
Quote: וְהָיָ֛ה הַמַּחֲנֶ֥ה הַנִּשְׁאָ֖ר לִפְלֵיטָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
Alternate translation: [then the people in the other camp can escape] or [then the other camp might be able to escape]
Genesis 32:9
Then Jacob said
Quote: וַיֹּאמֶר֮ יַעֲקֹב֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then Jacob prayed]
God of my grandfather Abraham, and God of my father Isaac, Yahweh
Quote: אֱלֹהֵי֙ אָבִ֣י אַבְרָהָ֔ם וֵאלֹהֵ֖י אָבִ֣י יִצְחָ֑ק יְהוָ֞ה (1)Make sure that your translation of this address refers to only one God, not two or three different Gods. Also make sure it is clear that Jacob is talking directly to Yahweh, not talking about him. Alternate translation: [Dear Yahweh, the God whom my grandfather Abraham and my father Isaac worshiped]
who said to me, ‘Return to your land and to your relatives
Quote: הָאֹמֵ֣ר אֵלַ֗י שׁ֧וּב לְאַרְצְךָ֛ וּלְמוֹלַדְתְּךָ֖ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Consider whether it is more natural in your language to use a direct or indirect quote here. Also see how you translated land and relatives in Gen 31:3. Alternate translation: [you told me to go back to my homeland where my relatives live]
and I will cause things to prosper with you
Quote: וְאֵיטִ֥יבָה עִמָּֽךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Make sure your choice of I or you (for God) and you or me (for Jacob) in this clause fits with the way you translated the previous part of this quote. Alternate translation: [and that you would make things go well for me]
Genesis 32:10
I am unworthy
Quote: קָטֹ֜נְתִּי (1)Alternate translation: [I do not deserve]
of all the kindnesses and of all the faithfulness that you have shown your servant
Quote: מִכֹּ֤ל הַחֲסָדִים֙ וּמִכָּל־הָ֣אֱמֶ֔ת אֲשֶׁ֥ר עָשִׂ֖יתָ אֶת־עַבְדֶּ֑ךָ (1)Alternate translation: [the way you have always treated me so kindly and faithfully as your servant] or [how kind and loyal you have always been to me as I have served you]
For I crossed this Jordan with my staff
Quote: כִּ֣י בְמַקְלִ֗י עָבַ֨רְתִּי֙ אֶת־הַיַּרְדֵּ֣ן הַזֶּ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [I crossed the Jordan River with only my staff] or [When I first left home and crossed the Jordan River, all that I had was my walking stick]
but now I have become two camps
Quote: וְעַתָּ֥ה הָיִ֖יתִי לִשְׁנֵ֥י מַחֲנֽוֹת (1)Alternate translation: [but now I have so many people in my household and so many possessions that there are two large camps] or [but now my family and belongings are enough to make two large groups]
Genesis 32:11
from the hand of my brother, from the hand of Esau
Quote: מִיַּ֥ד אָחִ֖י מִיַּ֣ד עֵשָׂ֑ו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Alternate translation: [from the power of my brother Esau]
because I am afraid of him, that
Quote: כִּֽי־יָרֵ֤א אָנֹכִי֙ אֹת֔וֹ פֶּן (1)Alternate translation: [I am very worried that]
he will come and strike me {and} the mothers with the children
Quote: יָב֣וֹא וְהִכַּ֔נִי אֵ֖ם עַל־בָּנִֽים (1)Alternate translation: [he and his men will come and attack me as well as these mothers with their children!] or [he and his men will attack and kill us all, including these mothers with their children!]
Genesis 32:12
But you said
Quote: וְאַתָּ֣ה אָמַ֔רְתָּ (1)Alternate translation: [For you told me] or [But remember that you promised me]
I will surely cause things to prosper with you, and I will make your descendants as the sand of the sea
Quote: הֵיטֵ֥ב אֵיטִ֖יב עִמָּ֑ךְ וְשַׂמְתִּ֤י אֶֽת־זַרְעֲךָ֙ כְּח֣וֹל הַיָּ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
For some languages it is more natural to use an indirect quote here, especially since Jacob is quoting the one he is talking to. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated “I will cause things to prosper with you” in verse 9 and how you translated as the sand in Gen 22:17. Alternate translation: [that you would surely prosper me, and that you would make my descendants as numerous as the grains of sand on the seashore]
which cannot be counted from {their} abundance
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר לֹא־יִסָּפֵ֖ר מֵרֹֽב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
Alternate translation: [which cannot be counted because there are so many] or [which are so many that no one can count them all]
Genesis 32:13
and he took gifts from what was in his hand
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֞ח מִן־הַבָּ֧א בְיָד֛וֹ מִנְחָ֖ה (1)Alternate translation: [and during that time he selected many of his animals as gifts] or [and while he was there he picked out many of the animals he had with him]
Genesis 32:14
two hundred she-goats and twenty he-goats, two hundred ewes and twenty rams
Quote: עִזִּ֣ים מָאתַ֔יִם וּתְיָשִׁ֖ים עֶשְׂרִ֑ים רְחֵלִ֥ים מָאתַ֖יִם וְאֵילִ֥ים עֶשְׂרִֽים (1)Consider what is the most natural way in your language to list these animals, here and in verse 15. See how you translated she-goats, he-goats, ewes and rams in Gen 31:10. Alternate translation: [including 200 nanny goats and twenty billy goats, 200 female sheep and twenty male sheep] or [including 200 nanny goats, twenty billy goats, 200 female sheep, twenty male sheep]
Genesis 32:15
thirty nursing camels and their young
Quote: גְּמַלִּ֧ים מֵינִיק֛וֹת וּבְנֵיהֶ֖ם שְׁלֹשִׁ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [thirty mother camels with their young]
forty cows and ten bulls, twenty female donkeys and ten male donkeys
Quote: פָּר֤וֹת אַרְבָּעִים֙ וּפָרִ֣ים עֲשָׂרָ֔ה אֲתֹנֹ֣ת עֶשְׂרִ֔ים וַעְיָרִ֖ם עֲשָׂרָֽה (1)See how you translated female donkeys and male donkeys in Gen 12:16. Alternate translation: [forty cows, ten bulls, twenty female donkeys and ten male donkeys]
Genesis 32:16
And he gave them into the hand{s} of his servants
Quote: וַיִּתֵּן֙ בְּיַד־עֲבָדָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Alternate translation: [He put his servants in charge of the animals]
each herd by itself
Quote: עֵ֥דֶר עֵ֖דֶר לְבַדּ֑וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [with each kind of animal in a separate herd] or [and had them put the different kinds of animals in different groups]
And he said to his servants
Quote: וַ֤יֹּאמֶר אֶל־עֲבָדָיו֙ (1)Alternate translation: [Then he told his servants]
Go before me, and put space between each herd
Quote: עִבְר֣וּ לְפָנַ֔י וְרֶ֣וַח תָּשִׂ֔ימוּ בֵּ֥ין עֵ֖דֶר וּבֵ֥ין עֵֽדֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Consider whether it is better in your language to use a direct or indirect quote here. Alternate translation: [Go ahead of me, one herd at a time, and keep some space between each herd of animals] or [to go ahead of him, one herd at time, keeping some distance between each herd]
Genesis 32:17
And he commanded the first {one}, saying
Quote: וַיְצַ֥ו אֶת־הָרִאשׁ֖וֹן לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Alternate translation: [He also instructed the servant in charge of the first herd of animals]
Whom do you {belong} to, and where are you going
Quote: לְמִי־אַ֨תָּה֙ וְאָ֣נָה תֵלֵ֔ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Consider whether it is more natural in your language to use a direct or indirect quote in verses 17-20a. Alternate translation: [who your master is and where you are going]
And whom do these {animals} {belong} to {that are} before you
Quote: וּלְמִ֖י אֵ֥לֶּה לְפָנֶֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Alternate translation: [and asks who owns the animals that you are herding]
Genesis 32:18
then you say
Quote: וְאָֽמַרְתָּ֙ (1)Alternate translation: [then you must tell him] or [then you are to answer him]
They belong} to your servant, to Jacob. They {are} a gift sent to my lord, to Esau
Quote: לְעַבְדְּךָ֣ לְיַעֲקֹ֔ב מִנְחָ֥ה הִוא֙ שְׁלוּחָ֔ה לַֽאדֹנִ֖י לְעֵשָׂ֑ו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
Also see how you translated your servant and my lord in verse 4.
And behold, he {is} also behind us
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֥ה גַם־ה֖וּא אַחֲרֵֽינוּ (1)Notice that the pronoun us is exclusive here.
Genesis 32:19
Then he also commanded
Quote: וַיְצַ֞ו גַּ֣ם (1)See how you translated commanded in verse 17. Alternate translation: [In the same way, Jacob instructed] or [Jacob gave the same orders to]
the second {servant}, also the third
Quote: אֶת־הַשֵּׁנִ֗י גַּ֚ם אֶת־הַשְּׁלִישִׁ֔י (1)Alternate translation: [the servant in charge of the second herd and the servant in charge of the third group] or [the servants who were in charge of the second and third herds of animals]
also all who followed behind the herds, saying
Quote: גַּ֚ם אֶת־כָּל־הַהֹ֣לְכִ֔ים אַחֲרֵ֥י הָעֲדָרִ֖ים לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Alternate translation: [as well as all the other servants who were in charge of the other herds]
Say the same thing to Esau when you find him
Quote: כַּדָּבָ֤ר הַזֶּה֙ תְּדַבְּר֣וּן אֶל־עֵשָׂ֔ו בְּמֹצַאֲכֶ֖ם אֹתֽוֹ (1)Alternate translation: [When you meet Esau, you are to tell him the same thing that I told the first servant]
Genesis 32:20
And also say, ‘Behold, your servant Jacob {is} behind us
Quote: וַאֲמַרְתֶּ֕ם גַּ֗ם הִנֵּ֛ה עַבְדְּךָ֥ יַעֲקֹ֖ב אַחֲרֵ֑ינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
See how you translated is behind us in verse 18.
For he said
Quote: כִּֽי־אָמַ֞ר (1)Alternate translation: [Jacob did all that, because he said]
I will cover his face with the gift
Quote: אֲכַפְּרָ֣ה פָנָ֗יו בַּמִּנְחָה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The idiom cover his face means to try to calm someone’s anger by doing something to please him. Consider whether your language has a similar idiom you could use here. Alternate translation: [I can pacify Esau by sending] or [Perhaps Esau will stop being angry at me if I send]
with the gift that is going before me
Quote: בַּמִּנְחָה֙ הַהֹלֶ֣כֶת לְפָנָ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to use an indirect quote here and say, “because he thought that if he sent the gifts of animals ahead of himself to Esau, then Esau would stop being angry at him.” Notice that this alternate translation also changes the clause order. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [him this gift of animals ahead of me] or [this gift of animals to him ahead of me]
and after that, when I see his face, perhaps he will receive my face
Quote: וְאַחֲרֵי־כֵן֙ אֶרְאֶ֣ה פָנָ֔יו אוּלַ֖י יִשָּׂ֥א פָנָֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Make sure that the way you translate this clause fits with how you translated the previous clauses as either a direct or indirect quote. Alternate translation: [After that, perhaps he will forgive me and welcome me when we see each other face to face]
Genesis 32:21
Then the gift went before him
Quote: וַתַּעֲבֹ֥ר הַמִּנְחָ֖ה עַל־פָּנָ֑יו (1)See how you translated gift in verses 13, 18, 20. Alternate translation: [So the animal gifts for Esau were taken ahead of Jacob by his servants]
and he himself stayed for that night in the camp
Quote: וְה֛וּא לָ֥ן בַּלַּֽיְלָה־הַה֖וּא בַּֽמַּחֲנֶֽה (1)Alternate translation: [but Jacob and his family stayed behind at the camp that night] or [but Jacob himself slept for part of the night in the camp]
Genesis 32:22
Then during that night he got up
Quote: וַיָּ֣קָם ׀ בַּלַּ֣יְלָה ה֗וּא (1)Make sure it is clear in your translation that this is the same night that was referred to in verse 21. Also, the phrase got up often refers to initiating an action, but here it may also imply that Jacob got up out of bed after sleeping for a while. Alternate translation: [Later that same night Jacob woke up and took] or [Sometime during that night]
his two wives and his two maidservants and his eleven sons
Quote: אֶת־שְׁתֵּ֤י נָשָׁיו֙ וְאֶת־שְׁתֵּ֣י שִׁפְחֹתָ֔יו וְאֶת־אַחַ֥ד עָשָׂ֖ר יְלָדָ֑יו (1)Consider what is the best way in your language to list these people. See what you did for a similar list of people in Gen 7:13. Alternate translation: [his two wives, two concubines and eleven sons]
and crossed over
Quote: וַֽיַּעֲבֹ֔ר (1)Alternate translation: [and walked across]
the ford of the Jabbok
Quote: אֵ֖ת מַעֲבַ֥ר יַבֹּֽק (1)A ford is a very shallow place in a stream that is fairly easy and safe for people and animals to walk across. The Jabbok Stream was a small river that flowed from east to west into the Jordan River about halfway between the Dead Sea and the Sea of Galilee. Jacob took his wives and children from the north side of the stream to the south side; his brother was coming towards them from further south. It might be helpful to include a map here in your translation that includes the places named in this chapter and shows where Jacob and Esau were coming from. Alternate translation: [a shallow place on the Jabbok River] or [a place in the Jabbok Stream that was shallow]
Genesis 32:23
So he took them and had them cross over the stream
Quote: וַיִּקָּחֵ֔ם וַיַּֽעֲבִרֵ֖ם אֶת־הַנָּ֑חַל (1)Verse 23 refers back to what already happened in verse 22. Make sure your translation does not sound like Jacob’s wives and children crossed the Jabbok Stream twice in verses 22-23. Alternate translation: [After he had taken them across the river] or [After he did that]
and he sent what {belonged} to him across
Quote: וַֽיַּעֲבֵ֖ר אֶת־אֲשֶׁר־לוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
At some point, Jacob went back to the north side of the Jabbok Stream, while his family waited for him on the south side. His belongings included the animals that he had not sent ahead to Esau as well as all his other possessions. Alternate translation: [he went back and had his servants take everything that he owned across the river too] or [he went back and had his servants take all his livestock and other possessions across the river too]
Genesis 32:24
Then Jacob was left alone
Quote: וַיִּוָּתֵ֥ר יַעֲקֹ֖ב לְבַדּ֑וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [After that, Jacob was alone there for a while]
and a man wrestled with him
Quote: וַיֵּאָבֵ֥ק אִישׁ֙ עִמּ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics
At some point, Jacob realized that this man was Yahweh in the form of a man (verse 30), so translation teams that capitalize references to God will capitalize all the pronouns that refer to him in verses 24-29 and may or may not capitalize “Man” in these verses. See what you did for a similar case when Yahweh appeared as a man to Abraham in Gen 18. Alternate translation: [and then a man came and wrestled with him]
until the dawn came up
Quote: עַ֖ד עֲל֥וֹת הַשָּֽׁחַר (1)The word dawn refers to the time before sunrise when the sky begins to get light. Alternate translation: [until dawn] or [until daylight started to appear]
Genesis 32:25
And he saw that he was not prevailing over him
Quote: וַיַּ֗רְא כִּ֣י לֹ֤א יָכֹל֙ ל֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Make sure it is clear in your translation who is being referred to in verses 25-29. Alternate translation: [Then the man realized that he could not defeat him so] or [When the man saw that he was not able to defeat him]
so he touched {him} on the socket of his hip
Quote: וַיִּגַּ֖ע בְּכַף־יְרֵכ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Alternate translation: [he hit him on his hip]
so that the socket of Jacob’s hip was dislocated
Quote: וַתֵּ֨קַע֙ כַּף־יֶ֣רֶךְ יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Consider whether it is better in your language to use an active or passive clause here. Also consider whether it is more natural in your language to use a noun phrase or a pronoun here to refer to Jacob’s hip joint. Alternate translation: [so that it was put out of place] or [and his hip joint went out of place]
as he wrestled with him
Quote: בְּהֵֽאָבְק֖וֹ עִמּֽוֹ (1)Alternate translation: [as he fought with the man] or [as they fought against each other]
Genesis 32:26
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then the man said to Jacob] or [Then the man demanded]
Release me
Quote: שַׁלְּחֵ֔נִי (1)Alternate translation: [You must let me go now]
because the dawn has come up
Quote: כִּ֥י עָלָ֖ה הַשָּׁ֑חַר (1)See how you translated “the dawn came up” in verse 24. Alternate translation: [because it is dawn] or [because daylight is beginning to come!]
But he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [But Jacob said to him]
I will not release you unless you bless me
Quote: לֹ֣א אֲשַֽׁלֵּחֲךָ֔ כִּ֖י אִם־בֵּרַכְתָּֽנִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions
Alternate translation: [No! First you must bless me, and then I will let you go!] or [I will let you go only if you bless me!]
Genesis 32:27
So he said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר אֵלָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then the man asked him]
What {is} your name
Quote: מַה־שְּׁמֶ֑ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Consider whether it is better to use a direct or indirect quote here in your language. Alternate translation: [Tell me your name] or [what his name was]
And he said, “Jacob
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר יַעֲקֹֽב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Make sure in your translation that Jacob’s reply sounds respectful. Also consider whether it is better to use a direct or indirect quote here in your language.
Genesis 32:28
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Alternate translation: [Then the man said to Jacob]
Your name will not be called Jacob anymore
Quote: לֹ֤א יַעֲקֹב֙ יֵאָמֵ֥ר עוֹד֙ שִׁמְךָ֔ (1)The wording here is similar to what God said when he changed Abram’s name to Abraham (Gen 17:5) and Sarai’s name to Sarah (17:15). After that, Abraham and Sarah were no longer called by their previous names. In the case of Jacob, he continues to be referred to by both of his names in this chapter (Jacob in verses 29-30, 32; Israel in verse 32) and throughout the rest of the Bible, including by God (Gen 46:2). It could be that although God was changing Jacob’s primary name to “Israel,” he was still known by his previous name too. You could put some of that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: [You will no longer be named Jacob]
but Israel
Quote: כִּ֖י אִם־יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
If you include the meaning of the name Israel in your translation or in a footnote, make sure it fits with how you translate struggled in the following clause.
because you have struggled with God and with men
Quote: כִּֽי־שָׂרִ֧יתָ עִם־אֱלֹהִ֛ים וְעִם־אֲנָשִׁ֖ים (1)The Hebrew word for struggled here is more general than the word for “wrestled” in verses 24 and 25. Alternate translation: [because you have struggled against both God and men]
and you have prevailed
Quote: וַתּוּכָֽל (1)See how you translated prevailed in verse 25 and Gen 30:8. It may be necessary to translate this term in slightly different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [and you have overcome]
Genesis 32:29
Then Jacob asked and said
Quote: וַיִּשְׁאַ֣ל יַעֲקֹ֗ב וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics
Consider again whether or not you have capitalized references to the man in verses 24-29. See the note about this at verse 24. Alternate translation: [Then Jacob asked him]
Please tell {me} your name
Quote: הַגִּֽידָה־נָּ֣א שְׁמֶ֔ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Consider whether it is better to use a direct or indirect quote here in your language. Alternate translation: [What is your name?] or [what his name was]
But he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [But the man replied]
Why {is} this you are asking
Quote: לָ֥מָּה זֶּ֖ה תִּשְׁאַ֣ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This rhetorical question probably means that there was no need for Jacob to ask the man what his name was; he should have known without asking. Consider whether or not it is best to use a rhetorical question here in your language. Alternate translation: [You do not need to ask me]
for my name
Quote: לִשְׁמִ֑י (1)Alternate translation: [to tell you my name!]
Genesis 32:30
I saw God face to face
Quote: רָאִ֤יתִי אֱלֹהִים֙ פָּנִ֣ים אֶל־פָּנִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Alternate translation: [I saw God in person here]
but my life was preserved
Quote: וַתִּנָּצֵ֖ל נַפְשִֽׁי (1)Jacob was amazed that he was still alive because, although there were exceptions (Exodus 33:11; Judges 13:22), normally people could not see God face to face and live (Exodus 33:20). You could put that information in a footnote so that readers understand why Jacob was surprised. Alternate translation: [but yet my life was spared by him!] or [but yet he has allowed me to live!]
Genesis 32:31
And the sun rose on him
Quote: וַיִּֽזְרַֽח־ל֣וֹ הַשֶּׁ֔מֶשׁ (1)Alternate translation: [The sun shined on Jacob] or [The sun was rising]
as he passed Penuel
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר עָבַ֖ר אֶת־פְּנוּאֵ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Penuel is another name for the place that is called Peniel in verse 30. That information could be put in a footnote. Or you could use the same spelling in both verses to avoid confusion; Penuel is the spelling in the rest of the Old Testament. Alternate translation: [as he left Penuel and returned to his family]
and he was limping
Quote: וְה֥וּא צֹלֵ֖עַ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [As he walked, he was limping]
because of his hip
Quote: עַל־יְרֵכֽוֹ (1)Alternate translation: [because his hip joint was injured]
Genesis 32:32
to this day
Quote: עַ֖ד הַיּ֣וֹם הַזֶּ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [even now] or [even in the present]
the sons of Israel
Quote: בְנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֜ל (1)Alternate translation: [the descendants of Israel] or [the Israelites]
do not eat the muscle of the tendon
Quote: לֹֽא־יֹאכְל֨וּ & אֶת־גִּ֣יד הַנָּשֶׁ֗ה (1)Alternate translation: [do not eat the tendon]
that {is} on the socket of the hip
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֙ עַל־כַּ֣ף הַיָּרֵ֔ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Make sure it is clear in your translation that this is talking about eating meat from an animal, not about cannibalism.
because he touched the socket of Jacob’s hip on the muscle of the tendon
Quote: כִּ֤י נָגַע֙ בְּכַף־יֶ֣רֶךְ יַעֲקֹ֔ב בְּגִ֖יד הַנָּשֶֽׁה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom touched in verse 25.
Genesis 33
Genesis 33:1
Then Jacob lifted his eyes and looked
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֨א יַעֲקֹ֜ב עֵינָ֗יו וַיַּרְא֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Make sure your translation of this idiom does not mean that Jacob looked straight up. Rather, he probably looked carefully to the south (the direction that his brother was coming from). Alternate translation: [Then Jacob looked up and saw] or [Then Jacob looked ahead of him and saw]
and behold, Esau was coming
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֣ה עֵשָׂ֣ו בָּ֔א (1)Esau was still a fair distance away, which gave Jacob time to do everything that he does in verses 1-3. Alternate translation: [that Esau was in the distance coming his way]
and with him 400 men
Quote: וְעִמּ֕וֹ אַרְבַּ֥ע מֵא֖וֹת אִ֑ישׁ (1)Alternate translation: [with 400 men!] or [and that he had 400 men with him!]
Then he divided the children among Leah and Rachel and the two maidservants
Quote: וַיַּ֣חַץ אֶת־הַיְלָדִ֗ים עַל־לֵאָה֙ וְעַל־רָחֵ֔ל וְעַ֖ל שְׁתֵּ֥י הַשְּׁפָחֽוֹת (1)Each of the women had her own children with her (verse 2). See how you translated divided in Gen 32:7 and “his two maidservants” in Gen 32:22. Alternate translation: [So he quickly put his children into groups with their own mothers, Leah, Rachel and his two servant wives] or [So he had his children quickly gather with their own mothers, so that Leah, Rachel and his two concubines were each with her own children]
Genesis 33:2
And he put the maidservants and their children
Quote: וַיָּ֧שֶׂם אֶת־הַשְּׁפָח֛וֹת וְאֶת־יַלְדֵיהֶ֖ן (1)See how you translated “his two maidservants” in Gen 32:22. Alternate translation: [He put his two servant wives with their children] or [He put the group that had his two servant wives and their children]
first
Quote: רִֽאשֹׁנָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to put phrases like first and after them at the beginning of their clauses and say, “First in line he put his two servant wives and/with their children. Behind them he put Leah and/with her children, and last of all he put Rachel and/with her son Joseph.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [in front of all the others]
and Leah and her children
Quote: וְאֶת־לֵאָ֤ה וִֽילָדֶ֨יהָ֙ (1)Alternate translation: [then he put Leah and her children]
after them
Quote: אַחֲרֹנִ֔ים (1)Alternate translation: [next]
and Rachel and Joseph
Quote: וְאֶת־רָחֵ֥ל וְאֶת־יוֹסֵ֖ף (1)Alternate translation: [and he put Rachel and her son Joseph]
after them
Quote: אַחֲרֹנִ֔ים (1)Alternate translation: [behind them all] or [in the rear]
Genesis 33:3
Then he himself went before them
Quote: וְה֖וּא עָבַ֣ר לִפְנֵיהֶ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [Then Jacob himself walked ahead of them all toward his brother] or [Then he started going toward his brother ahead of them all]
and he bowed to the ground seven times as he came near to his brother
Quote: וַיִּשְׁתַּ֤חוּ אַ֨רְצָה֙ שֶׁ֣בַע פְּעָמִ֔ים עַד־גִּשְׁתּ֖וֹ עַד־אָחִֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
See how you translated “bow down” in Gen 27:29. Alternate translation: [and he bowed with his face to the ground seven times to show respect as he went closer to him] or [As he approached Esau, he prostrated himself with his face to the ground seven times to show respect]
Genesis 33:4
But Esau ran to meet him and embraced him
Quote: וַיָּ֨רָץ עֵשָׂ֤ו לִקְרָאתוֹ֙ וַֽיְחַבְּקֵ֔הוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
This sentence shows a contrast between what Jacob was expecting and what actually happened.
and he fell on his neck and kissed him
Quote: וַיִּפֹּ֥ל עַל־צַוָּארָ֖ו וַׄיִּׄשָּׁׄקֵ֑ׄהׄוּׄ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated “hugged him … and kissed him on the cheek/cheeks” in Gen 29:13. Make sure that the way you translate fell on his neck does not imply that Esau accidentally fell. Rather, this is an idiom that means he embraced Jacob warmly, with much emotion. Alternate translation: [and he threw his arms around his shoulders and kissed him] or [He held Jacob tightly and kissed him on the cheek]
and they cried
Quote: וַיִּבְכּֽוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual
Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, some languages have a dual pronoun for they that could be used here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [and they both cried for joy] or [Both of them cried because they were so happy to see each other again]
Genesis 33:5
Then he lifted his eyes
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֣א אֶת־עֵינָ֗יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom “lifted … eyes” in verse 1 and Gen 31:10. It may be necessary to translate this idiom in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [Then Esau looked up]
and saw the women and the children
Quote: וַיַּ֤רְא אֶת־הַנָּשִׁים֙ וְאֶת־הַיְלָדִ֔ים (1)Alternate translation: [and saw the women and children who were there with Jacob]
and he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [so he asked him]
Who {are} these with you
Quote: מִי־אֵ֣לֶּה לָּ֑ךְ (1)Esau wants to know if these people are Jacob’s family members or his servants or someone else; he is not asking what their names are. Alternate translation: [How are these people related to you?]
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֕ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Make sure it is clear in your translation who is speaking to whom here. Alternate translation: [He answered him]
The children
Quote: הַיְלָדִ֕ים (1)Alternate translation: [They are the children and the wives] or [They are my wives and my children]
whom God has graciously given to your servant
Quote: אֲשֶׁר־חָנַ֥ן אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶת־עַבְדֶּֽךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Jacob uses the phrase your servant to be polite and show respect to Esau; he was not actually Esau’s servant. For some languages it is more natural to put the honorific title first in this sentence and say, “Sir, they are the wives and children whom God has graciously given to me.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [whom God has kindly given to me, your servant] or [whom God has graciously given to me, sir]
Genesis 33:6
Then the maidservants came near, they and their children
Quote: וַתִּגַּ֧שְׁןָ הַשְּׁפָח֛וֹת הֵ֥נָּה וְיַלְדֵיהֶ֖ן (1)See how you translated maidservants in verses 1-2. Alternate translation: [Then the two maidservants came closer to Esau along with their children]
and they bowed down
Quote: וַתִּֽשְׁתַּחֲוֶֽיןָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
See how you translated bowed down in verse 3. Alternate translation: [and they all bowed to the ground in front of him to show respect]
Genesis 33:7
Then Leah also came near and her children
Quote: וַתִּגַּ֧שׁ גַּם־לֵאָ֛ה וִילָדֶ֖יהָ (1)Alternate translation: [Then Leah also came closer to Esau along with her children] or [Next Leah and her children also came closer]
Then after {that}, Joseph came near and Rachel
Quote: וְאַחַ֗ר נִגַּ֥שׁ יוֹסֵ֛ף וְרָחֵ֖ל (1)Alternate translation: [Then last of all, Joseph and his mother Rachel came closer]
and they bowed down
Quote: וַיִּֽשְׁתַּחֲו֑וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual
Some languages have a dual pronoun for they that fits here well. See what you did in verse 4.
Genesis 33:8
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then Esau said to Jacob]
What to you {are
Quote: מִ֥י לְךָ֛ (1)Alternate translation: [What do you mean by] or [What is the purpose of]
all these groups
Quote: כָּל־הַמַּחֲנֶ֥ה הַזֶּ֖ה (1)Alternate translation: [all those groups of livestock]
that I met
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר פָּגָ֑שְׁתִּי (1)Alternate translation: [that I saw on my way here?] or [that came to me on my way here?]
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (2)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Jacob said to him]
To find favor in the eyes of my lord
Quote: לִמְצֹא־חֵ֖ן בְּעֵינֵ֥י אֲדֹנִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated my lord and the idiom “find favor in … eyes” in Gen 32:5. Alternate translation: [I sent them so that you would be gracious to me, sir] or [They are gifts for you so that you would be pleased with me, sir]
Genesis 33:9
Then Esau said
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר עֵשָׂ֖ו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
What Esau says is in contrast to what Jacob said, but it may not be necessary to use a conjunction here at all. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Esau said to him]
I have plenty, my brother
Quote: יֶשׁ־לִ֣י רָ֑ב אָחִ֕י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to put the address my brother first in this quote. Some languages also have a special term for “younger brother” that fits well here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [My brother, I already own enough livestock]
Let what {belongs} to you be yours
Quote: יְהִ֥י לְךָ֖ אֲשֶׁר־לָֽךְ (1)Alternate translation: [Keep what you own for yourself] or [so keep your livestock for yourself]
Genesis 33:10
But Jacob said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר יַעֲקֹ֗ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [But Jacob responded to him]
No, please
Quote: אַל־נָא֙ (1)In verses 10 and 11, Jacob speaks urgently to Esau, because in that culture if Esau accepts Jacob’s gift, he is committing himself to treat Jacob as a friend. Alternate translation: [No, I beg you]
If, please, I have found favor in your eyes
Quote: אִם־נָ֨א מָצָ֤אתִי חֵן֙ בְּעֵינֶ֔יךָ (1)See how you translated the idiom “find/gain favor in your eyes” in verse 8. Alternate translation: [Rather, if you are pleased with me] or [Rather, if you want to be gracious to me, then]
then take my gift from my hand
Quote: וְלָקַחְתָּ֥ מִנְחָתִ֖י מִיָּדִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Alternate translation: [please accept from me what I have given you]
For indeed
Quote: כִּ֣י עַל־כֵּ֞ן (1)Alternate translation: [The fact is]
I have seen your face, {which is} like seeing the face of God, and you have received me
Quote: רָאִ֣יתִי פָנֶ֗יךָ כִּרְאֹ֛ת פְּנֵ֥י אֱלֹהִ֖ים וַתִּרְצֵֽנִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
In Old Testament times it was terrifying for someone to see God in person, because normally people could not see God’s face and live (Exodus 33:20). However, God had been gracious to Jacob and allowed him to live (Genesis 32:30). In the same way, it was a terrifying thing for Jacob to see Esau who had 400 men with him, but Esau was gracious to him (33:4). See how you translated a different Hebrew word that means “receive” or “welcome” in Gen 32:20. Alternate translation: [I thought you were still angry at me, so I was afraid of seeing you again in person, just as I would be afraid of meeting God in person, but you forgave me and welcomed me!]
Genesis 33:11
Please take my blessing that was brought to you
Quote: קַח־נָ֤א אֶת־בִּרְכָתִי֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר הֻבָ֣את לָ֔ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
Alternate translation: [So please accept my gift of livestock that my servants brought to you] or [So please accept the livestock from me that I sent to you]
because God has been gracious to me
Quote: כִּֽי־חַנַּ֥נִי אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)Alternate translation: [because God has been generous to me] or [because God has blessed me]
and because I have everything
Quote: וְכִ֣י יֶשׁ־לִי־כֹ֑ל (1)Alternate translation: [and he has given me everything that I need] or [so that I own all that I need]
And he urged him
Quote: וַיִּפְצַר־בּ֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Make sure it is clear in your translation who and what is being referred to at every point in this sentence. Alternate translation: [He kept urging him to accept his gift] or [He kept insisting that he accept the livestock from him]
so he took {it
Quote: וַיִּקָּֽח (1)Alternate translation: [until finally Esau accepted it]
Genesis 33:12
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Alternate translation: [Then Esau said to Jacob]
and I will go in front of you
Quote: וְאֵלְכָ֖ה לְנֶגְדֶּֽךָ (1)Esau is suggesting that he would accompany or escort Jacob and his family, not that he would go far ahead of them. Alternate translation: [and I will lead you]
Genesis 33:13
But he said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלָ֗יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Alternate translation: [But he replied to him]
My lord knows that
Quote: אֲדֹנִ֤י יֹדֵ֨עַ֙ כִּֽי (1)See how you translated “my lord” in verse 8. Alternate translation: [Sir, you know that]
the children {are} tender
Quote: הַיְלָדִ֣ים רַכִּ֔ים (1)Alternate translation: [my children are weak]
and the flock{s} and the herd{s} {that} are nursing {are} with me
Quote: וְהַצֹּ֥אן וְהַבָּקָ֖ר עָל֣וֹת עָלָ֑י (1)See how you translated “flocks and herds” in Gen 12:16. Alternate translation: [and some of my sheep and cattle are nursing their young]
And if they drive them one day
Quote: וּדְפָקוּם֙ י֣וֹם אֶחָ֔ד (1)Alternate translation: [If my men drive the livestock too hard in one day] or [If I force the livestock to go too fast for even one day]
then all the flock{s} will die
Quote: וָמֵ֖תוּ כָּל־הַצֹּֽאן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This phrase especially refers to the sheep and cattle that were nursing, but Jacob is probably using hyperbole here (all) to emphasize that he does not want to travel too fast. Alternate translation: [then all the flocks and herds will die] or [then all of them will die]
Genesis 33:14
Please let my lord go on before his servant
Quote: יַעֲבָר־נָ֥א אֲדֹנִ֖י לִפְנֵ֣י עַבְדּ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
See how you translated Jacob’s use of my lord (in verse 8) and servant (in verse 5) to show respect and deference to Esau. Here he uses both terms for emphasis.
and I will lead them on at my gentle pace, at the pace of the livestock that {are} ahead of me and at the pace of the children
Quote: וַאֲנִ֞י אֶֽתְנָהֲלָ֣ה לְאִטִּ֗י לְרֶ֨גֶל הַמְּלָאכָ֤ה אֲשֶׁר־לְפָנַי֙ וּלְרֶ֣גֶל הַיְלָדִ֔ים (1)Alternate translation: [Then I will travel along slowly at a speed that is good for the livestock and children that are with me]
until I come to my lord
Quote: עַ֛ד אֲשֶׁר־אָבֹ֥א אֶל־אֲדֹנִ֖י (1)Alternate translation: [until we reach you, sir] or [We will catch up to you later, sir]
in Seir
Quote: שֵׂעִֽירָה (1)See how you translated “the land of Seir” in Gen 32:3. The land of Seir was a mountainous region southeast of the land of Canaan (and the Dead Sea) and was where Esau had settled. It was also called “Edom” (Gen 32:3), which was Esau’s nickname (Gen 25:30). You could put some of that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: [in the land of Seir]
Genesis 33:15
And Esau said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר עֵשָׂ֔ו (1)Alternate translation: [Then Esau said to Jacob]
Please let me leave with you some of the people who {are} with me
Quote: אַצִּֽיגָה־נָּ֣א עִמְּךָ֔ מִן־הָעָ֖ם אֲשֶׁ֣ר אִתִּ֑י (1)Alternate translation: [Okay, then please let me leave you some of my men to escort you] or [Okay, then may I leave some of my men with you to escort you?]
But he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Make sure the way you translate this quote margin fits with how you translate the previous and following sentences. Alternate translation: [Jacob said to him] or [Jacob answered him]
Why {do} that
Quote: לָ֣מָּה זֶּ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Jacob uses a rhetorical question here to emphasize that there is no need for Esau to leave any of his men with him. For some languages it is clearer and more natural to use a statement here instead. Do what is best in your language.
Let me find favor in the eyes of my lord
Quote: אֶמְצָא־חֵ֖ן בְּעֵינֵ֥י אֲדֹנִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
Consider again how you translated my lord in verses 8,13-15. For some languages it is more natural to put this address earlier in this quote. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated the idiom find favor in the eyes of in verse 8. Alternate translation: [Just please continue to be gracious to me, sir] or [Sir, please just continue to treat me kindly]
Genesis 33:16
So on that day Esau went on his way back
Quote: וַיָּשָׁב֩ בַּיּ֨וֹם הַה֥וּא עֵשָׂ֛ו לְדַרְכּ֖וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [So that very day Esau and his men started on their way back] or [So that very day Esau and his men left and headed back]
to Seir
Quote: שֵׂעִֽירָה (1)See how you translated Seir in verse 14. Alternate translation: [home to the region of Seir]
Genesis 33:17
And Jacob traveled to Succoth
Quote: וְיַעֲקֹב֙ נָסַ֣ע סֻכֹּ֔תָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
Jacob went northwest to Succoth, instead of going south to the region of Seir as he had said he would do (verse 14). Also see how you translated “travel” in verse 12. Alternate translation: [But Jacob went to the town of Succoth instead] or [Meanwhile, instead of going to Seir, Jacob and his family went to the town of Succoth]
and he built a house for himself
Quote: וַיִּ֥בֶן ל֖וֹ בָּ֑יִת (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [There he and his servants built a house for himself and his family] or [where he and his men built a house for his family]
and for his livestock he made shelters
Quote: וּלְמִקְנֵ֨הוּ֙ עָשָׂ֣ה סֻכֹּ֔ת (1)The term livestock is general here and includes all of Jacob’s animals. Alternate translation: [and they also built some shelters for his livestock] or [and shelters for his animals]
For that {reason
Quote: עַל־כֵּ֛ן (1)See how you translated this phrase in Gen 32:32. Alternate translation: [Because of that]
he called the name of the place Succoth
Quote: קָרָ֥א שֵׁם־הַמָּק֖וֹם סֻכּֽוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The phrase “he/they called” could refer to Jacob, or it could refer to people in general (as it often does in Genesis). If you include the meaning of the name Succoth in your translation or in a footnote, make sure it matches the way you translate shelters earlier in this verse.
Genesis 33:18
Then Jacob came {in} peace {to} the city of Shechem, which {was} in the land of Canaan, when he came from Paddan Aram
Quote: וַיָּבֹא֩ יַעֲקֹ֨ב שָׁלֵ֜ם עִ֣יר שְׁכֶ֗ם אֲשֶׁר֙ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנַ֔עַן בְּבֹא֖וֹ מִפַּדַּ֣ן אֲרָ֑ם (1)Jacob and his family had left Paddan Aram and had been traveling back to the land of his ancestors in Canaan (Gen 31:3, 13, 18). See how you translated in peace in Gen 28:21. Alternate translation: [Later Jacob and his family arrived safely at the city of Shechem in the land of Canaan, as he continued traveling home from the region of Paddan Aram] or [After that, Jacob and his family continued their journey home from the region of Paddan Aram, until eventually they arrived safely at the city of Shechem in the land of Canaan]
and he camped
Quote: וַיִּ֖חַן (1)Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated camped in Gen 26:17. Alternate translation: [and he set up camp in a field] or [Then he set up his tents in a field]
before the city
Quote: אֶת־פְּנֵ֥י הָעִֽיר (1)Alternate translation: [near the city] or [on the edge of the city]
Genesis 33:19
And he bought the portion of the field
Quote: וַיִּ֜קֶן אֶת־חֶלְקַ֣ת הַשָּׂדֶ֗ה (1)Alternate translation: [Then he bought the plot of land]
where he pitched his tent{s
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֤ר נָֽטָה & אָהֳל֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [where they had set up their camp] or [where he were camping]
from the hand{s} of the sons of Hamor, the father of Shechem, for a hundred kesitahs
Quote: מִיַּ֥ד בְּנֵֽי־חֲמ֖וֹר אֲבִ֣י שְׁכֶ֑ם בְּמֵאָ֖ה קְשִׂיטָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
The weight and value of a hundred kesitahs of silver is not known. Some ancient translations (including the LXX and Latin Vulgate) have “a hundred lambs” here, but most modern translations have “a hundred pieces of silver/money.” Alternate translation: [for one hundred pieces of money from the sons of Hamor who was the father of Shechem]
Genesis 33:20
And there he set up an altar
Quote: וַיַּצֶּב־שָׁ֖ם מִזְבֵּ֑חַ (1)See how you translated altar in Gen 26:25. Alternate translation: [On that land Jacob also built a stone altar] or [Jacob also made an altar out of stones on that land]
and he called it El Elohe Israel
Quote: וַיִּ֨קְרָא־ל֔וֹ אֵ֖ל אֱלֹהֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The name El Elohe Israel could also mean “Powerful/Mighty is the God of Israel,” because the Hebrew word “el” can mean “God” or “powerful.” You could put that information in a footnote.
Genesis 34
Genesis 34:1
Then Dinah, the daughter of Leah, whom she had born for Jacob, went out
Quote: וַתֵּצֵ֤א דִינָה֙ בַּת־לֵאָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר יָלְדָ֖ה לְיַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
These events took place at an unspecified time after Jacob and his family set up their camp beside the city of Shechem (Gen 33:18). Consider what is the best way to introduce a new event in your language. Also be consistent here with how you spelled Dinah in Gen 30:21. Alternate translation: [Now one day Dinah, who was the daughter whom Leah had for Jacob, went out] or [One day, Dinah, who was the daughter of Jacob and Leah, went to the city]
to see
Quote: לִרְא֖וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. The verb to see could mean: (1) “to visit with”; many languages have a similar idiom. (2) “to see/observe” the local women, for example, how they dressed and what jewelry they wore.
the daughters of the land
Quote: בִּבְנ֥וֹת הָאָֽרֶץ (1)See how you translated daughters of the land in Gen 27:46, and how you translated a similar phrase (“people of the land”) in Gen 23:7, 12. Alternate translation: [some of the women who were native to that area] or [some of the native women]
Genesis 34:2
And Shechem, the son of Hamor the Hivite, the ruler of the land, saw
Quote: וַיַּ֨רְא & שְׁכֶ֧ם בֶּן־חֲמ֛וֹר הַֽחִוִּ֖י נְשִׂ֣יא הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Consider which order of phrases is best here in your language. Also see how you translated “Hivites” in Gen 10:17 and ruler in Gen 25:16. Alternate translation: [Then Shechem, who was the son of the Hivite named Hamor who ruled that region, saw] or [Now the ruler of that region was a Hivite named Hamor. His son Shechem saw]
her, and he took her
Quote: אֹתָ֜הּ & וַיִּקַּ֥ח אֹתָ֛הּ (1)Alternate translation: [Dinah, and he grabbed hold of her] or [how beautiful Dinah was, so he took hold of her]
and lay with her and violated her
Quote: וַיִּשְׁכַּ֥ב אֹתָ֖הּ וַיְעַנֶּֽהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
This is a euphemistic way of saying that Shechem forced Dinah to have sex with him. Translate this in a way that will not offend or embarrass people, especially when hearing your translation read aloud. Alternate translation: [and forced her to go to bed with him]
Genesis 34:3
And his soul was attached to Dinah the daughter of Jacob, and he loved
Quote: וַתִּדְבַּ֣ק נַפְשׁ֔וֹ בְּדִינָ֖ה בַּֽת־יַעֲקֹ֑ב וַיֶּֽאֱהַב֙ (1)Alternate translation: [He admired her so much that he fell in love with her]
and spoke to the heart of the young woman
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֖ר עַל־לֵ֥ב הַֽנַּעֲרָֽ (1)See how you translated young woman in Gen 24:14, and see the note about that there. Alternate translation: [and spoke tenderly to her to try to persuade her] or [and tried to win her heart by speaking kindly to her]
Genesis 34:4
Then Shechem said to Hamor his father, saying
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר שְׁכֶ֔ם אֶל־חֲמ֥וֹר אָבִ֖יו לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Alternate translation: [Then Shechem went to his father Hamor and requested]
Get this girl for me as a wife
Quote: קַֽח־לִ֛י אֶת־הַיַּלְדָּ֥ה הַזֹּ֖את לְאִשָּֽׁה (1)At that time it was normal for parents to negotiate with another family to get a spouse for their child. The negotiations would include a bride-price and other details. You could put some of that information in a footnote. The term girl that Shechem uses here is less respectful than the term “young woman” that is used in verses 3 and 12.
Genesis 34:5
Then Jacob heard that
Quote: וְיַעֲקֹ֣ב שָׁמַ֗ע כִּ֤י (1)Alternate translation: [When Jacob was told by someone that]
he had defiled Dinah his daughter
Quote: טִמֵּא֙ אֶת־דִּינָ֣ה בִתּ֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [Shechem had disgraced his daughter Dinah] or [his daughter Dinah had been disgraced by Shechem]
and his sons were with his livestock in the fields
Quote: וּבָנָ֛יו הָי֥וּ אֶת־מִקְנֵ֖הוּ בַּשָּׂדֶ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [his sons were still tending his livestock out in the fields] or [his sons were still out in the fields taking care of his livestock]
so Jacob kept quiet
Quote: וְהֶחֱרִ֥שׁ יַעֲקֹ֖ב (1)Make sure your translation of this phrase does not mean that Jacob was totally silent. Rather, it means he did not speak about what Shechem had done to Dinah.
until they came
Quote: עַד־בֹּאָֽם (1)Alternate translation: [until they came back home]
Genesis 34:6
And Hamor the father of Shechem came out
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֛א חֲמ֥וֹר אֲבִֽי־שְׁכֶ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
For some languages it is more natural to introduce Shechem here, rather than wait and have him appear too suddenly in verse 11. Do what is best in your language.
to Jacob to talk with him
Quote: אֶֽל־יַעֲקֹ֑ב לְדַבֵּ֖ר אִתּֽוֹ (1)Alternate translation: [to talk with Jacob]
Genesis 34:7
When they heard
Quote: כְּשָׁמְעָ֔ם (1)Many translations put “when they heard” with the previous sentence. However, unless someone else told Jacob’s sons the news of what happened, that interpretation contradicts verse 5, which says that Jacob kept quiet about it until his sons got home. Alternate translation: [When they heard that Shechem had raped their sister]
then the men were grieved
Quote: וַיִּֽתְעַצְּבוּ֙ הָֽאֲנָשִׁ֔ים (1)See how you translated grieved in Gen 6:6. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [they were very shocked]
and it burned within them greatly
Quote: וַיִּ֥חַר לָהֶ֖ם מְאֹ֑ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom “it/anger burned within …” in Gen 32:36. Alternate translation: [and filled with anger]
because he had done something disgraceful to Israel
Quote: כִּֽי־נְבָלָ֞ה עָשָׂ֣ה בְיִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל (1)Notice in this verse that the Hebrew text has both of Jacob’s names, Jacob and “Israel,” to emphasize that Shechem had sinned against Jacob and all of his descendants (the people of Israel). You could put that information in a footnote. Make sure that your translation of Israel does not refer here to a place, since Israel was not yet a country or a territory. Alternate translation: [that Shechem had disgraced the family of Israel]
and such a thing should not have been done
Quote: וְכֵ֖ן לֹ֥א יֵעָשֶֽׂה (1)Alternate translation: [Such a wicked thing should never be done by anyone!] or [No one should ever do such a wicked crime!]
Genesis 34:8
But Hamor spoke with them, saying
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר חֲמ֖וֹר אִתָּ֣ם לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Alternate translation: [But Hamor pleaded with Jacob and his sons and said] or [But Hamor begged Jacob and his sons]
to your daughter
Quote: בְּבִתְּכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
The pronoun your is plural here, which shows that Hamor is addressing not only Jacob but also his sons. Alternate translation: [My son Shechem has fallen completely in love with your daughter and sister]
Please give her to him as a wife
Quote: תְּנ֨וּ נָ֥א אֹתָ֛הּ ל֖וֹ לְאִשָּֽׁה (1)The way give and “take” are used in verses 8, 9, 12, 16 and 21 reflects the culture at that time, when parents or families arranged marriages for their daughters. Also see the note about this at verse 4. Alternate translation: [So please permit him to marry her]
Genesis 34:9
Give your daughters to us, and take our daughters for yourselves
Quote: בְּנֹֽתֵיכֶם֙ תִּתְּנוּ־לָ֔נוּ וְאֶת־בְּנֹתֵ֖ינוּ תִּקְח֥וּ לָכֶֽם (1)Alternate translation: [so that your daughters will marry our young men and your young men will marry our daughters] or [so that you allow our young men to marry your daughters and we allow your young men to marry our daughters]
Genesis 34:10
and settle with us
Quote: וְאִתָּ֖נוּ תֵּשֵׁ֑בוּ (1)Alternate translation: [You can also live among us] or [We also invite you to live among us]
And the land is before you. Settle and trade in it
Quote: וְהָאָ֨רֶץ֙ תִּהְיֶ֣ה לִפְנֵיכֶ֔ם שְׁבוּ֙ וּסְחָר֔וּהָ (1)Normally foreigners were not allowed to own land or to move around in the land to trade freely. So that is why Hamor is offering this in exchange for Jacob allowing his family to intermarry with the Hivites. Alternate translation: [The land is available for you to choose what you want; settle in it wherever you want. You can also trade freely here] or [You can settle wherever you want in the land. You can also do business buying and selling things wherever you want]
and acquire {property} in it
Quote: וְהֵֽאָחֲז֖וּ בָּֽהּ (1)Alternate translation: [and you can buy your own property]
Genesis 34:11
Let me find favor in your eyes
Quote: אֶמְצָא־חֵ֖ן בְּעֵינֵיכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom “Let me find favor in the eyes of …” in Gen 33:15. Alternate translation: [Please be gracious to me and let me marry Dinah]
and what you say to me I will give
Quote: וַאֲשֶׁ֥ר תֹּאמְר֛וּ אֵלַ֖י אֶתֵּֽן (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [Then I will give you whatever you ask from me for her]
Genesis 34:12
Increase greatly the dowry and gift for me
Quote: הַרְבּ֨וּ עָלַ֤י מְאֹד֙ מֹ֣הַר וּמַתָּ֔ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
The dowry was the payment that a groom (and his family) had to give to the bride’s family. It could include things like money, land, and livestock. The term gift probably refers to additional gifts given to the bride and her family members (as in Gen 24:53). If the custom of paying a dowry is not known in your culture, you could include an explanation in a footnote. Alternate translation: [Set the dowry and wedding gifts that I must pay to marry her as high as you want]
and I will give according to what you say to me
Quote: וְאֶ֨תְּנָ֔ה כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר תֹּאמְר֖וּ אֵלָ֑י (1)See how you translated a similar clause in verse 11. Alternate translation: [and I will give you whatever you ask from me]
Then give the young woman to me as a wife
Quote: וּתְנוּ־לִ֥י אֶת־הַֽנַּעֲרָ֖ לְאִשָּֽׁה (1)See how you translated young woman in verse 3. Alternate translation: [Only please let me marry the young woman]
Genesis 34:13
because he had defiled Dinah their sister
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר טִמֵּ֔א אֵ֖ת דִּינָ֥ה אֲחֹתָֽם (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, “But because/since Shechem had defiled/dishonored their sister Dinah, the sons of Jacob deceived/tricked Shechem and his father Hamor 14 by saying to them,” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [because he had disgraced their sister Dinah] or [because he had done a shameful thing to their sister Dinah]
Genesis 34:14
And they said to them
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֣וּ אֲלֵיהֶ֗ם (1)Consider whether it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the sentence that started in verse 13. Alternate translation: [and said to them]
We are not able to do this thing
Quote: לֹ֤א נוּכַל֙ לַעֲשׂוֹת֙ הַדָּבָ֣ר הַזֶּ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [We are not able to do such a thing as] or [It would be not be right for us]
to give our sister to a man who has a foreskin
Quote: לָתֵת֙ אֶת־אֲחֹתֵ֔נוּ לְאִ֖ישׁ אֲשֶׁר־ל֣וֹ עָרְלָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
Translate who has a foreskin in a way that will not offend or embarrass people, especially when hearing your translation read aloud. Alternate translation: [to let our sister marry a man like you who has not had his foreskin removed] or [to allow a man like you who is not circumcised to marry our sister]
because that {is} a disgrace to us
Quote: כִּֽי־חֶרְפָּ֥ה הִ֖וא לָֽנוּ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [because that would humiliate our family!] or [That would cause great shame to our family!]
Genesis 34:15
Only on this {condition} will we consent with you
Quote: אַךְ־בְּזֹ֖את נֵא֣וֹת לָכֶ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [The only way that we will agree with your proposal is] or [We will do what you ask only if you do this one thing:]
if you become like us
Quote: אִ֚ם תִּהְי֣וּ כָמֹ֔נוּ (1)Alternate translation: [You and your people must first become like us]
by every male among you being circumcised
Quote: לְהִמֹּ֥ל לָכֶ֖ם כָּל־זָכָֽר (1)See how you translated circumcised in Gen 17:10. Alternate translation: [by circumcising all your males]
Genesis 34:16
Then we will give our daughters to you, and we will take your daughters for us
Quote: וְנָתַ֤נּוּ אֶת־בְּנֹתֵ֨ינוּ֙ לָכֶ֔ם וְאֶת־בְּנֹתֵיכֶ֖ם נִֽקַּֽח־לָ֑נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
The pronouns “we,” “our,” and us are exclusive in verses 14-17 except for the last we in verse 16. Also see how you translated “give … daughters … take … daughters …” in verse 9. Alternate translation: [Then we will let our daughters marry your young men, and our young men will marry your daughters] or [After you do that, then we will allow your young men to marry our daughters, and we will allow your daughters to marry our young men]
And we will settle with you
Quote: וְיָשַׁ֣בְנוּ אִתְּכֶ֔ם (1)See how you translated settle with in verse 10. Alternate translation: [We will also settle among you in this land]
and we will become one people
Quote: וְהָיִ֖ינוּ לְעַ֥ם אֶחָֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
Here the we is inclusive because Jacob’s sons are including Shechem and Hamor’s people. If you have an inclusive form of this pronoun in your language, you could use it here. Alternate translation: [and as a result we will all be one ethnic group]
Genesis 34:17
But if you will not listen to us to be circumcised
Quote: וְאִם־לֹ֧א תִשְׁמְע֛וּ אֵלֵ֖ינוּ לְהִמּ֑וֹל (1)Alternate translation: [But if you refuse to agree with our requirement that you circumcise your males] or [But if you do not circumcise your males as we say]
then we will take our daughter and go
Quote: וְלָקַ֥חְנוּ אֶת־בִּתֵּ֖נוּ וְהָלָֽכְנוּ (1)The phrase our daughter reflects the fact that Jacob’s sons are using their father’s perspective and authority here. If that is confusing, you could say “our sister” instead. See how you translated “our family’s daughter” in verse 8. Alternate translation: [then we will leave and take our sister with us]
Genesis 34:18
And their words were good in the eyes of Hamor and in the eyes of Shechem, Hamor’s son
Quote: וַיִּֽיטְב֥וּ דִבְרֵיהֶ֖ם בְּעֵינֵ֣י חֲמ֑וֹר וּבְעֵינֵ֖י שְׁכֶ֥ם בֶּן־חֲמֽוֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom “good in … eyes” in Gen 19:8. It may need to be translated in different ways, depending on the context.
Genesis 34:19
So the young man did not delay
Quote: וְלֹֽא־אֵחַ֤ר הַנַּ֨עַר֙ (1)Alternate translation: [So Shechem immediately started] or [So right away Shechem took action]
to do the thing
Quote: לַעֲשׂ֣וֹת הַדָּבָ֔ר (1)Alternate translation: [to do what they proposed] or [to do their requirement]
and he was honored more than all of the house of his father
Quote: וְה֣וּא נִכְבָּ֔ד מִכֹּ֖ל בֵּ֥ית אָבִֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to put this clause earlier in this sentence and say, “So right away Shechem, who was the most respected member in his father’s household/family, started to do what they required, because he was thrilled with Jacob’s daughter.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 34:20
and they spoke to the men of their city, saying
Quote: וַֽיְדַבְּר֛וּ אֶל־אַנְשֵׁ֥י עִירָ֖ם לֵאמֹֽר (1)In that culture the leaders of a city held their meetings at the main city gates (as in Gen 23:3). Cities were surrounded by walls (that had gates) for protection. You could put some of that information in a footnote so that people understand what was happening. Alternate translation: [and they spoke to the city elders who had gathered there. They said] or [and they told the leaders of their city about Jacob and his sons]
Genesis 34:21
These men {are} peaceful with us
Quote: הָאֲנָשִׁ֨ים הָאֵ֜לֶּה שְֽׁלֵמִ֧ים & אִתָּ֗נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
Here us includes Hamor, Shechem and the men they are talking to. Alternate translation: [Jacob and his family are at peace with us]
so let them settle in the land
Quote: וְיֵשְׁב֤וּ בָאָ֨רֶץ֙ (1)See how you translated settle in verse 10. Alternate translation: [so we should let them live in our land]
and let them trade in it
Quote: וְיִסְחֲר֣וּ אֹתָ֔הּ (1)See how you translated trade in it in verse 10. Alternate translation: [and let them buy and sell things wherever they want]
And behold, the land {is} broad of hands before them
Quote: וְהָאָ֛רֶץ הִנֵּ֥ה רַֽחֲבַת־יָדַ֖יִם לִפְנֵיהֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Alternate translation: [Look, there is enough land to support them and us] or [After all, there is more than enough room in this land for them too]
We can take their daughters for ourselves as wives, and we can give our daughters to them
Quote: אֶת־בְּנֹתָם֙ נִקַּֽח־לָ֣נוּ לְנָשִׁ֔ים וְאֶת־בְּנֹתֵ֖ינוּ נִתֵּ֥ן לָהֶֽם (1)See how you translated similar clauses in verses 9 and 16. It may be necessary to translate these in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [That way too, we can choose their daughters to be our wives, and we can let their young men marry our daughters]
Genesis 34:22
Only on this {condition} will the men consent with us to settle with us
Quote: אַךְ־בְּ֠זֹאת יֵאֹ֨תוּ לָ֤נוּ הָאֲנָשִׁים֙ לָשֶׁ֣בֶת אִתָּ֔נוּ (1)See how you began verse 15, which is very similar to verse 22. Alternate translation: [There is just one requirement: They will only agree to settle among us] or [But they will only consent to live among us]
to become one people
Quote: לִהְי֖וֹת לְעַ֣ם אֶחָ֑ד (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 16.
when every male among us is circumcised
Quote: בְּהִמּ֥וֹל לָ֨נוּ֙ כָּל־זָכָ֔ר (1)See how you translated “every male among … circumcised” in verse 15. Alternate translation: [if all our males are circumcised]
just as they are circumcised
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֖ר הֵ֥ם נִמֹּלִֽים (1)Alternate translation: [as their males are]
Genesis 34:23
Their livestock and their property and all their animals
Quote: מִקְנֵהֶ֤ם וְקִנְיָנָם֙ וְכָל־בְּהֶמְתָּ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [Then all their livestock and animals, and all their other property] or [But if we do that, all their possessions, including their livestock and all their other animals]
will they not {belong} to us
Quote: הֲל֥וֹא לָ֖נוּ הֵ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This rhetorical question emphasizes that all of Jacob’s livestock and property will belong to the people of Shechem. If a rhetorical question does not fit here in your language, you could make this a statement. Alternate translation: [will be ours!]
Only let us consent with them
Quote: אַ֚ךְ נֵא֣וֹתָה לָהֶ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [So we should just do what they propose]
and they will settle with us
Quote: וְיֵשְׁב֖וּ אִתָּֽנוּ (1)See how you translated settle with us in verses 10 and 22. Alternate translation: [so that they will settle among us!]
Genesis 34:24
And all who went out of the gate of his city listened
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמְע֤וּ & כָּל־יֹצְאֵ֖י שַׁ֣עַר עִיר֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Make sure that your translation of this idiom refers here to the same men who had gathered at the city gates in verse 20. Alternate translation: [All the men who were elders of the city] or [All the men who were there at the city gate]
And … listened to Hamor and to Shechem his son
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמְע֤וּ אֶל־חֲמוֹר֙ וְאֶל־שְׁכֶ֣ם בְּנ֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [agreed to do what Hamor and his son Shechem said]
and every male was circumcised, all who went out of the gate of his city
Quote: וַיִּמֹּ֨לוּ֙ כָּל־זָכָ֔ר כָּל־יֹצְאֵ֖י שַׁ֥עַר עִירֽוֹ (1)Alternate translation: [so all of them and all the other males in the city were circumcised]
Genesis 34:25
Then it happened on the third day
Quote: וַיְהִי֩ בַיּ֨וֹם הַשְּׁלִישִׁ֜י (1)Alternate translation: [On the third day after that]
when they were in pain
Quote: בִּֽהְיוֹתָ֣ם כֹּֽאֲבִ֗ים (1)Alternate translation: [when it was still painful for the men of the city to move]
then two of Jacob’s sons, Simeon and Levi, brothers of Dinah, each took
Quote: וַיִּקְח֣וּ שְׁנֵֽי־בְנֵי־יַ֠עֲקֹב שִׁמְע֨וֹן וְלֵוִ֜י אֲחֵ֤י דִינָה֙ אִ֣ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
These brothers had the same father and mother as Dinah. Some languages have a special term for this. Do what is best in your language.
his sword and went upon the city boldly
Quote: חַרְבּ֔וֹ וַיָּבֹ֥אוּ עַל־הָעִ֖יר בֶּ֑טַח (1)See how you translated sword in Gen 27:40. Alternate translation: [their swords and attacked the city, with no one resisting them]
and killed every male
Quote: וַיַּֽהַרְג֖וּ כָּל־זָכָֽר (1)The children who were males were probably not killed, since later (verse 29) it says that all the children were captured. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here that continues into verse 26. Alternate translation: [They killed all the males there]
Genesis 34:26
And they killed Hamor and Shechem his son with the mouth of the sword
Quote: וְאֶת־חֲמוֹר֙ וְאֶת־שְׁכֶ֣ם בְּנ֔וֹ הָרְג֖וּ לְפִי־חָ֑רֶב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual
Some languages have dual pronouns for they and “you” that can be used in verses 25-26 and 30-31 to refer to Simeon and Levi. Do what is best in your language.
and left
Quote: וַיֵּצֵֽאוּ (1)Alternate translation: [and returned home]
Genesis 34:27
The sons of Jacob came upon the slain and plundered the city
Quote: בְּנֵ֣י יַעֲקֹ֗ב בָּ֚אוּ עַל־הַ֣חֲלָלִ֔ים וַיָּבֹ֖זּוּ הָעִ֑יר (1)All of Jacob’s sons probably joined Simeon and Levi in plundering the city, after those two had killed all the men there (verse 25).
because they had defiled their sister
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר טִמְּא֖וּ אֲחוֹתָֽם (1)See how you translated defiled in verses 5 and 13. Even though Shechem was the one who actually defiled Dinah (verses 2, 5, 7, 13), Jacob’s sons held everyone in the city responsible for the crime that their ruler’s son had committed (verses 25-29). If that is not clear, you could put that information in a footnote. Make sure that your translation of they does not refer to Jacob’s sons. Alternate translation: [They did that because that was where Shechem had disgraced their sister] or [to get revenge for the shameful thing that had been done to their sister there]
Genesis 34:28
They took their flock{s} and their herd{s} and their donkeys, and what {was} in the city and what {was} in the field{s
Quote: אֶת־צֹאנָ֥ם וְאֶת־בְּקָרָ֖ם וְאֶת־חֲמֹרֵיהֶּ֑ם וְאֵ֧ת אֲשֶׁר־בָּעִ֛יר וְאֶת־אֲשֶׁ֥ר בַּשָּׂדֶ֖ה לָקָֽחוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
See how you translated donkeys in Gen 32:15.
Genesis 34:29
And all their wealth and all their little ones and their women they took captive, and they also plundered everything that {was} in the houses
Quote: וְאֶת־כָּל־חֵילָ֤ם וְאֶת־כָּל־טַפָּם֙ וְאֶת־נְשֵׁיהֶ֔ם שָׁב֖וּ וַיָּבֹ֑זּוּ וְאֵ֖ת כָּל־אֲשֶׁ֥ר בַּבָּֽיִת (1)See how you translated plundered in verse 27. Alternate translation: [They carried away all the valuable things the people of Shechem had owned, including everything that was in their houses. They also captured all their women and children] or [They took away everything that was valuable and also captured all the children and women. They seized and took away everything that was in the houses]
Genesis 34:30
Then Jacob said to Simeon and to Levi
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יַעֲקֹ֜ב אֶל־שִׁמְע֣וֹן וְאֶל־לֵוִי֮ (1)Alternate translation: [Later when they came home, Jacob scolded Simeon and Levi by saying]
You have brought trouble on me
Quote: עֲכַרְתֶּ֣ם אֹתִי֒ (1)Alternate translation: [You have caused me serious problems] or [You have put me in great danger]
by making me stink among {those} who live in the land, among the Canaanites and among the Perizzites
Quote: לְהַבְאִישֵׁ֨נִי֙ בְּיֹשֵׁ֣ב הָאָ֔רֶץ בַּֽכְּנַעֲנִ֖י וּבַפְּרִזִּ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The idiom making me stink means Jacob’s sons had caused him to have a very bad reputation, so that people would hate him and his family. Some languages have a similar idiom that fits well here. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated the Canaanites and the Perizzites in Gen 13:7; 15:20-21. There were other people groups also living in the land, but these two groups are the ones being emphasized here. Alternate translation: [by causing the people who live in this land to despise us, including the Canaanites and Perizzites!] or [by causing the Canaanites and Perizzites who live in this land to hate me]
And I am few of number
Quote: וַאֲנִי֙ מְתֵ֣י מִסְפָּ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The words “I,” “me,” and my refer in this verse to all of Jacob’s family; he uses these pronouns because he is the leader of his family. Alternate translation: [We only have a few men to defend us]
and if they gather together against me and attack me
Quote: וְנֶאֶסְפ֤וּ עָלַי֙ וְהִכּ֔וּנִי (1)Make sure your use of the pronouns me or “us” fits with the way you translate the rest of this sentence. Alternate translation: [so if they all join forces against me and attack me]
then I will be destroyed, I and my house
Quote: וְנִשְׁמַדְתִּ֖י אֲנִ֥י וּבֵיתִֽי (1)Alternate translation: [then I and my family will be killed!] or [they will kill us and the rest of my household!]
Genesis 34:31
But they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֑וּ (1)Alternate translation: [But Simeon and Levi replied angrily]
Should he have treated our sister like a prostitute
Quote: הַכְזוֹנָ֕ה יַעֲשֶׂ֖ה אֶת־אֲחוֹתֵֽנוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This rhetorical question shows Simeon and Levi’s anger and emphasizes that Shechem was wrong to do what he did and implies that he (and his city) deserved justice. Some languages have an idiom for this. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [He should not have treated our sister as a prostitute]
Genesis 35
Genesis 35:1
Then God said to Jacob
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֱלֹהִים֙ אֶֽל־יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Translate this quote margin in a way that is natural in your language and that fits with what God says. Alternate translation: [Then God told Jacob]
Get up
Quote: ק֛וּם (1)Alternate translation: [Get packed]
go up to Bethel and settle there
Quote: עֲלֵ֥ה בֵֽית־אֵ֖ל וְשֶׁב־שָׁ֑ם (1)The verb go up reflects the fact that the town of Bethel is higher in elevation than the city of Shechem; it does not refer to the direction they were going, which was south. Many translations leave up implied (to prevent confusion). Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [and travel to the town of Bethel and live there]
and make an altar there
Quote: וַעֲשֵׂה־שָׁ֣ם מִזְבֵּ֔חַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See how you translated altar in Gen 33:20.
to the God
Quote: לָאֵל֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Make sure it is clear in your translation that God is referring to himself as he speaks here to Jacob. Alternate translation: [to me as the God] or [to me, the God]
who appeared to you
Quote: הַנִּרְאֶ֣ה אֵלֶ֔יךָ (1)See how you translated appeared in Gen 26:2, 24. Alternate translation: [who came to you there] or [who introduced myself to you there]
when you were fleeing
Quote: בְּבָרְחֲךָ֔ (1)See how you translated “flee” in Gen 31:20-21, 27.
from the presence of Esau your brother
Quote: מִפְּנֵ֖י עֵשָׂ֥ו אָחִֽיךָ (1)Alternate translation: [from the anger of your brother Esau]
Genesis 35:2
So Jacob said to his household
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יַעֲקֹב֙ אֶל־בֵּית֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [So Jacob told the members of his family]
and to all who {were} with him
Quote: וְאֶ֖ל כָּל־אֲשֶׁ֣ר עִמּ֑וֹ (1)This included Jacob’s servants and the people (women and children) whom his sons had just captured from the city of Shechem (Gen 34:29). You could put some of that information in a footnote.
Remove the foreign gods that {are} among you
Quote: הָסִ֜רוּ אֶת־אֱלֹהֵ֤י הַנֵּכָר֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר בְּתֹכְכֶ֔ם (1)See how you translated “idols” and gods in Gen 31:19, 30, 32. Alternate translation: [Get rid of the idols you have that pagan ethnic groups worship] or [Give up the idols that you have from foreigners]
and purify yourselves
Quote: וְהִֽטַּהֲר֔וּ (1)They were to make themselves physically clean as a sign that they were preparing themselves mentally and spiritually to worship God (as their only God) at Bethel, which was a holy place where God had met with Jacob before. Some languages may have a special word for purify that communicates this. Do what is best in your language. Also consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [and cleanse yourselves]
and change your clothes
Quote: וְהַחֲלִ֖יפוּ שִׂמְלֹתֵיכֶֽם (1)Alternate translation: [and get on clean clothes]
Genesis 35:3
Then let us get up
Quote: וְנָק֥וּמָה (1)See how you translated get up in verse 1. Alternate translation: [Then we must pack up our things] or [Then we must leave here]
and go up to Bethel
Quote: וְנַעֲלֶ֖ה בֵּֽית־אֵ֑ל (1)See how you translated go up in verse 1. Alternate translation: [and go to the town of Bethel]
and there I will make an altar to God
Quote: וְאֶֽעֱשֶׂה־שָּׁ֣ם מִזְבֵּ֗חַ לָאֵ֞ל (1)The Hebrew text has I here, but probably also implies that others in Jacob’s household would help him build the altar. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also see how you translated make an altar in verse 1. Alternate translation: [where I will build an altar to worship God] or [There I will build an altar and worship God]
who answered me
Quote: הָעֹנֶ֤ה אֹתִי֙ (1)Alternate translation: [because he answered me] or [who granted my prayers for help]
in the day of my distress
Quote: בְּי֣וֹם צָֽרָתִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The phrase “In the day of” is used here as an idiom that could refer to the time when Jacob was fleeing from Esau, or it could be more general and also include other times when Jacob was suffering, such as the years he worked for Laban. Alternate translation: [during the days when I was in trouble]
And he has been with me
Quote: וַיְהִי֙ עִמָּדִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom with me in Gen 31:5, where it also means that God is not only present with him but also helps him and takes care of him. Alternate translation: [He has always stayed with me and taken care of me]
in the way that I have gone
Quote: בַּדֶּ֖רֶךְ אֲשֶׁ֥ר הָלָֽכְתִּי (1)Alternate translation: [everywhere that I have gone]
Genesis 35:4
So they gave to Jacob
Quote: וַיִּתְּנ֣וּ אֶֽל־יַעֲקֹ֗ב (1)Alternate translation: [Then they gave Jacob] or [Then they turned over to Jacob]
all the foreign gods that {were} in their hand{s
Quote: אֵ֣ת כָּל־אֱלֹהֵ֤י הַנֵּכָר֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר בְּיָדָ֔ם (1)See how you translated foreign gods in verse 2. You could translate this differently here since this is the second time they are mentioned in this paragraph. Alternate translation: [all the pagan gods that they had with them]
and the rings that {were} in their ears
Quote: וְאֶת־הַנְּזָמִ֖ים אֲשֶׁ֣ר בְּאָזְנֵיהֶ֑ם (1)These earrings seem to have been part of their idol worship and may have had images of their idols on them. You could include that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: [and the earrings they wore on their ears]
and Jacob hid them
Quote: וַיִּטְמֹ֤ן אֹתָם֙ יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Alternate translation: [Then Jacob hid everything in the ground] or [Then Jacob hid all those things in the ground]
under
Quote: תַּ֥חַת (1)Make sure it is clear in your translation that Jacob buried these things in the ground beside the tree, not directly under the trunk of the tree. Alternate translation: [beside] or [at the foot of]
the terebinth tree
Quote: הָאֵלָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
Although this phrase refers to a terebinth tree, many translations have “oak tree” instead, or some other type of large, strong tree that is well known. See how you translated a different Hebrew word that is also translated terebinth tree or “oak tree” in Gen 12:6; 13:18; 14:13; 18:1. Another Hebrew word in Gen 35:8 is also translated as “oak.” Alternate translation: [a oak tree]
Genesis 35:5
Then they set out
Quote: וַיִּסָּ֑עוּ (1)Alternate translation: [Then they all left there and started traveling]
and the dread of God was on the cities that {were} around them, so that … not
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י ׀ חִתַּ֣ת אֱלֹהִ֗ים עַל־הֶֽעָרִים֙ אֲשֶׁר֙ סְבִיבֹ֣תֵיהֶ֔ם וְלֹ֣א (1)The Hebrew word “Elohim” probably means God in this phrase (as it usually does in the Bible); most English versions translate it that way here. Or it could be an adjective that modifies “dread/terror” and means “great/deep dread/terror” (similar to Gen 23:6, 30:8). See how you translated dread in Gen 9:2. Alternate translation: [and God caused the people in the nearby cities to be afraid, so that] or [and God made the people in the nearby cities so afraid that]
so that they did not pursue after
Quote: וְלֹ֣א רָֽדְפ֔וּ אַחֲרֵ֖י (1)Make sure your translation of they refers here to the people in the surrounding towns, not Jacob’s sons. Alternate translation: [no one attacked] or [none of them came after]
the sons of Jacob
Quote: בְּנֵ֥י יַעֲקֹֽב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Jacob’s sons are mentioned here since they are in focus as the ones who just plundered the city of Shechem; Jacob and the rest of his family were there with his sons and were also in danger. Alternate translation: [them] or [Jacob and his family]
Genesis 35:6
Then Jacob came to Luz
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֨א יַעֲקֹ֜ב ל֗וּזָה (1)Be consistent in this verse with how you spelled Luz and Bethel in Gen 28:19. Alternate translation: [Soon Jacob arrived at the town of Luz]
which {is} Bethel
Quote: הִ֖וא בֵּֽית־אֵ֑ל (1)See how you translated which is in Gen 23:2, 19. Alternate translation: [which is also called Bethel] or [that is, Bethel] or [which now has the name Bethel]
which {is} in the land of Canaan
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֙ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנַ֔עַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Since Shechem (verse 4) and Bethel were both in the land or region of Canaan, for some languages it is clearer or more natural to put this location phrase earlier in the verse and say, “Jacob/He and his family continued traveling in the land/region of Canaan and arrived at the town of Luz, which also/now has the name Bethel,” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [which is also in Canaan]
he and all the people who {were} with him
Quote: ה֖וּא וְכָל־הָעָ֥ם אֲשֶׁר־עִמּֽוֹ (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. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [he and his whole family]
Genesis 35:7
And there he built an altar
Quote: וַיִּ֤בֶן שָׁם֙ מִזְבֵּ֔חַ (1)Consider again how you translated altar throughout the book of Genesis. See Gen 8:20; 12:7-8; 13:4, 18; 22:9; 26:25; 33:20; 35:1, 3, 7. Alternate translation: [There he built an altar] or [Then he built an altar there]
and he called the place
Quote: וַיִּקְרָא֙ לַמָּק֔וֹם (1)Alternate translation: [and he named that place] or [and he named it]
because there
Quote: כִּ֣י שָׁ֗ם (1)Alternate translation: [because it was at Bethel that]
God had revealed himself to him
Quote: נִגְל֤וּ אֵלָיו֙ הָֽאֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)Compare how you translated a different Hebrew word that has a similar meaning (“appeared”) in verses 1 and 9. Alternate translation: [God had first introduced himself to him] or [God had first appeared to Jacob]
when he was fleeing
Quote: בְּבָרְח֖וֹ (1)See how you translated fleeing in verse 1. Alternate translation: [while he was running away]
from the presence of his brother
Quote: מִפְּנֵ֥י אָחִֽיו (1)See how you translated from the presence of in verse 1. Alternate translation: [from the anger of his brother]
Genesis 35:8
Then Deborah, the nurse of Rebekah, died
Quote: וַתָּ֤מָת דְּבֹרָה֙ מֵינֶ֣קֶת רִבְקָ֔ה (1)See how you translated nurse in Gen 24:59.
and was buried
Quote: וַתִּקָּבֵ֛ר (1)Alternate translation: [and her body was buried by Jacob in the ground] or [They buried her body in the ground]
below Bethel
Quote: מִתַּ֥חַת לְבֵֽית־אֵ֖ל (1)The town of Bethel was built on a hill, so the phrase below Bethel means that Deborah was buried near Bethel, in a valley or place that was lower in elevation than the town, and possibly to the south of it. Alternate translation: [in the valley below the town of Bethel] or [at a place south of the town of Bethel]
under the oak tree
Quote: תַּ֣חַת הָֽאַלּ֑וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
See how you translated a similar phrase (“under the terebinth/oak tree”) in verse 4. Many translations translate this phrase the same way in both places (“under an oak tree”), even though different Hebrew words are used for the type of tree. Also, for some languages it is more natural to put this phrase before the previous phrase and say, “at the base of an oak tree, below/near the town of Bethel.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [beside an oak tree] or [at the foot of an oak tree]
So he called its name
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) that people in general called the tree or place Allon Bacuth; or (2) that Jacob was the one who named the place. See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 31:38. Alternate translation: [So he named the tree] or [That is why the place is known as]
Allon Bacuth
Quote: אַלּ֥וֹן בָּכֽוּת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
If you include the meaning of this name in your translation text or in a footnote, make sure it fits with how you translated oak tree in the previous sentence.
Genesis 35:9
Then God appeared to Jacob again when he had come from Paddan Aram
Quote: וַיֵּרָ֨א אֱלֹהִ֤ים אֶֽל־יַעֲקֹב֙ ע֔וֹד בְּבֹא֖וֹ מִפַּדַּ֣ן אֲרָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Alternate translation: [Now that Jacob had come from the land of Paddan Aram, God appeared to him at Bethel again] or [Now that Jacob had returned to Bethel from the land of Paddan Aram, God appeared to him there again]
and he blessed him
Quote: וַיְבָ֖רֶךְ אֹתֽוֹ (1)Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [and blessed him] or [and showed his goodness toward him]
Genesis 35:10
and God said to him
Quote: וַיֹּֽאמֶר־ל֥וֹ אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
What God says to Jacob in verses 10-12 is the blessing. So make sure your translation of “blessed” (verse 9) and said (verse 10) refers to the same event, not two separate events. See how you translated “blessed … and said” in Gen 1:28. Alternate translation: [by saying to him]
Your name {is} Jacob
Quote: שִׁמְךָ֣ יַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)Make sure your translation of this clause does not sound like God was telling Jacob something he did not know.
Your name will not be called Jacob anymore
Quote: לֹֽא־יִקָּרֵא֩ שִׁמְךָ֨ ע֜וֹד יַעֲקֹ֗ב (1)Notice that Jacob is referred to by both of his names in this chapter (Jacob in verses 11-20, 22-29; Israel in verses 10 and 21). You could put that information in a footnote. Also see how you translated this clause in Gen 32:28, and see the note about Jacob’s names there. Alternate translation: [that will no longer be your only name] or [it will no longer be that]
but Israel will be your name
Quote: כִּ֤י אִם־יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ יִהְיֶ֣ה שְׁמֶ֔ךָ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [Rather, your name will also be Israel!] or [Rather, you will also have the name Israel!]
So he called his name Israel
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א אֶת־שְׁמ֖וֹ יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This was not the first time God had given Jacob the name Israel (See: Gen 32:28). To make that clear, you could make “once again” explicit here.
Genesis 35:11
Then God said to him
Quote: וַיֹּאמֶר֩ ל֨וֹ אֱלֹהִ֜ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
In verse 11, God continues the blessing that he started in verse 10, perhaps after a pause. Alternate translation: [Then God also said to him] or [Then God also blessed him by saying] or [God continued blessing him by saying to him]
I {am} God Almighty
Quote: אֲנִ֨י אֵ֤ל שַׁדַּי֙ (1)See how you translated the title God Almighty in Gen 17:1 and 28:3. Alternate translation: [I am God who is all-powerful]
Be fruitful
Quote: פְּרֵ֣ה (1)Consider again how you translated Be fruitful and multiply in the book of Genesis. See Gen 1:22, 28; 8:17; 9:1, 7; 35:11. It may be necessary to translate this phrase in different ways, depending on the context.
and multiply
Quote: וּרְבֵ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [and increase in number] or [so that you and your descendants become very many]
A nation and a community of nations will be from you
Quote: גּ֛וֹי וּקְהַ֥ל גּוֹיִ֖ם יִהְיֶ֣ה מִמֶּ֑ךָּ (1)Compare how you translated a similar phrase (“a multitude of nations”) in Gen 17:4-5 and another similar phrase (“a community of peoples”) in Gen 28:3. Alternate translation: [Your descendants will become a large people group. In fact, many ethnic groups will descend from you] or [Your descendants will become many ethnic groups]
and kings will come from your loins
Quote: וּמְלָכִ֖ים מֵחֲלָצֶ֥יךָ יֵצֵֽאוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
The phrase come from your loins is an idiom that refers to having children, grandchildren and other descendants. Consider whether you have a similar idiom in your language. Alternate translation: [and kings will descend from you]
Genesis 35:12
And the land that I gave to Abraham and to Isaac I will give to you, and I will give the land to your descendants after you
Quote: וְאֶת־הָאָ֗רֶץ אֲשֶׁ֥ר נָתַ֛תִּי לְאַבְרָהָ֥ם וּלְיִצְחָ֖ק לְךָ֣ אֶתְּנֶ֑נָּה וּֽלְזַרְעֲךָ֥ אַחֲרֶ֖יךָ אֶתֵּ֥ן אֶת־הָאָֽרֶץ (1)Alternate translation: [Also, I am giving to you the land that I gave to Abraham and Isaac, and I will also give it to your descendants who live after you]
Genesis 35:13
Then God went up from him at the place where he spoke with him
Quote: וַיַּ֥עַל מֵעָלָ֖יו אֱלֹהִ֑ים בַּמָּק֖וֹם אֲשֶׁר־דִּבֶּ֥ר אִתּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
See how you translated went up from in Gen 17:22. Alternate translation: [Then God left Jacob there where he had been speaking to him]
Genesis 35:14
Then Jacob set up a pillar
Quote: וַיַּצֵּ֨ב יַעֲקֹ֜ב מַצֵּבָ֗ה (1)See how you translated a similar passage in Gen 28:18 about Jacob setting up a memorial stone pillar. Alternate translation: [Then Jacob set a large stone up on its end] or [Then Jacob chose a large stone that was there and set it up on its end]
at the place where he had spoken with him, a pillar of stone
Quote: בַּמָּק֛וֹם אֲשֶׁר־דִּבֶּ֥ר אִתּ֖וֹ מַצֶּ֣בֶת אָ֑בֶן (1)Alternate translation: [at the place where God had spoken to him, to mark the place as special] or [as a memorial stone to remember the place where God had talked to him]
and he poured a drink offering on it, and he poured oil on it
Quote: וַיַּסֵּ֤ךְ עָלֶ֨יהָ֙ נֶ֔סֶךְ וַיִּצֹ֥ק עָלֶ֖יהָ שָֽׁמֶן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
A drink offering was probably wine that Jacob poured on the stone as a sacrifice to God, to worship and thank him. See how you translated “poured oil on …” in Gen 28:18. Alternate translation: [Then he poured some wine and some olive oil on the stone pillar to thank God and dedicate the place to him]
Genesis 35:15
And Jacob called the name of the place where God spoke with him Bethel
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֨א יַעֲקֹ֜ב אֶת־שֵׁ֣ם הַמָּק֗וֹם אֲשֶׁר֩ דִּבֶּ֨ר אִתּ֥וֹ & אֱלֹהִ֖ים בֵּֽית־אֵֽל (1)See how you translated “called the name of that place Bethel” in Gen 28:19.
Genesis 35:16
Then they set out from Bethel
Quote: וַיִּסְעוּ֙ מִבֵּ֣ית אֵ֔ל (1)Be consistent here with how you spelled Bethel throughout the book of Genesis and whether you refer to it as a town or a city. See Gen 12:8; 13:3; 28:19; 31:13; 35:1, 3, 7, 15, 16. Alternate translation: [Then they left the town of Bethel] or [Later Jacob and his family moved on from the town of Bethel]
and there was still a distance of land to come to Ephrath
Quote: וַֽיְהִי־ע֥וֹד כִּבְרַת־הָאָ֖רֶץ לָב֣וֹא אֶפְרָ֑תָה (1)The phrase a distance of land is very general, but your translation should not make it sound like the distance was too far, because Rachel’s grave is about two kilometers (one mile) from Ephrath (Bethlehem). Alternate translation: [and started heading toward the town of Ephrath. But while they were still a distance away from there]
but was having great difficulty while she was giving birth
Quote: וַתְּקַ֥שׁ בְּלִדְתָּֽהּ (1)Alternate translation: [but she was having a very difficult time delivering the baby]
Genesis 35:17
And it happened when she was in hard labor
Quote: וַיְהִ֥י בְהַקְשֹׁתָ֖הּ בְּלִדְתָּ֑הּ (1)The phrase hard labor refers to when childbirth contractions are close together and very painful, often right before a baby is born. Alternate translation: [Then when she was at the most difficult time in her labor] or [Then when her childbirth pains were the most severe]
then the midwife said to her
Quote: וַתֹּ֨אמֶר לָ֤הּ הַמְיַלֶּ֨דֶת֙ (1)Alternate translation: [the midwife told her] or [the baby was born and the midwife who was helping her deliver exclaimed to her]
Do not be afraid
Quote: אַל־תִּ֣ירְאִ֔י (1)Alternate translation: [Do not worry]
because this {is} also a son for you
Quote: כִּֽי־גַם־זֶ֥ה לָ֖ךְ בֵּֽן (1)Alternate translation: [You now have another boy!] or [You just gave birth to another son]
Genesis 35:18
Then it happened as her soul was leaving {her}—for she was dying
Quote: וַיְהִ֞י בְּצֵ֤את נַפְשָׁהּ֙ כִּ֣י מֵ֔תָה (1)Some translations use an idiom here, for example, “as she was taking her last breath” or “as her life was slipping/fading away,” but it is best to translate this in a way that preserves the biblical teaching that at death the soul or spirit leaves the body. Alternate translation: [But Rachel was dying, and as her soul was leaving her body] or [But in fact Rachel was about to die, and just before her soul left her]
then she called his name Ben-oni
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖וֹ בֶּן־אוֹנִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The meaning of this name could imply that the child caused Rachel’s death. In the Hebrew text this name is two words connected with a dash (Ben-oni). Many translations write it that way or as one word (“Benoni”), and a few translations write it as “Ben Oni.” Any of these spellings is fine.
but his father
Quote: וְאָבִ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Make sure it is clear in your translation that this phrase refers to Jacob. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
called him Benjamin
Quote: קָֽרָא־ל֥וֹ בִנְיָמִֽין (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The phrase “son of my right hand” is an idiom that means “favored son” or “son of strength.” Alternate translation: [named him Benjamin instead]
Genesis 35:19
So Rachel died and was buried
Quote: וַתָּ֖מָת רָחֵ֑ל וַתִּקָּבֵר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
See how you translated was buried in verse 8. Alternate translation: [After Rachel died, her body was buried by Jacob] or [After Rachel died, Jacob buried her body]
on the way to Ephrath
Quote: בְּדֶ֣רֶךְ אֶפְרָ֔תָה (1)Alternate translation: [beside the road that goes to the town of Ephrath]
which {is} Bethlehem
Quote: הִ֖וא בֵּ֥ית לָֽחֶם (1)See how you translated a similar phrase (“which is Bethel”) in verse 6. Alternate translation: [which is also called Bethlehem] or [that is, Bethlehem]
Genesis 35:20
And Jacob set up a pillar
Quote: וַיַּצֵּ֧ב יַעֲקֹ֛ב מַצֵּבָ֖ה (1)See how you translated this clause in verse 14. Also consider again how you translated set up and pillar in the book of Genesis. See Gen 28:18, 22; 31:13, 45, 51, 52; 35:14, 20. Alternate translation: [Jacob set a large stone up on its end]
over her grave
Quote: עַל־קְבֻרָתָ֑הּ (1)Alternate translation: [over her burial place to show where it was] or [to show where her tomb was] or [to mark the place where he had buried her body]
to this day
Quote: עַד־הַיּֽוֹם (1)The phrase to this day refers to the time when the author (Moses) was living. Even in modern times, Rachel’s grave is still marked beside the road about eight kilometers (five miles) south of Jerusalem and two kilometers (one mile) north of Bethlehem. Alternate translation: [in the present day] or [now]
Genesis 35:21
Then Israel set out
Quote: וַיִּסַּ֖ע יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)Make sure it is clear in your translation or in a footnote that Israel (verses 21-22) and “Jacob” (verses 20, 22) refer to the same person, not two different people. Alternate translation: [Then Israel that is, Jacob, and his family moved on from there] or [Then Israel and his family started traveling again]
and pitched his tents
Quote: וַיֵּ֣ט אָֽהֳלֹ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [and put up his tents]
beyond
Quote: מֵהָ֖לְאָה (1)This phrase reflects the perspective of Jacob, who was traveling south. Alternate translation: [on the other side of]
Migdal Eder
Quote: לְמִגְדַּל־עֵֽדֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Many translations transliterate Migdal Eder (like most other names). Many others translate the meaning of Migdal as “the tower” and transliterate “Eder.” A few translate the meaning of the entire name as “the Tower of the Flock.” This was apparently a place near Bethlehem where sheep were raised (Micah 4:8); shepherds may have watched over their flocks from the tower. Alternate translation: [Eder Tower]
Genesis 35:22
And it happened while Israel was living
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י בִּשְׁכֹּ֤ן יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ (1)Alternate translation: [While Israel and his family were still living] or [During the time that they were living]
in that land
Quote: בָּאָ֣רֶץ הַהִ֔וא (1)Alternate translation: [in that region] or [there]
then Reuben went and lay with
Quote: וַיֵּ֣לֶךְ רְאוּבֵ֔ן וַיִּשְׁכַּב֙ אֶת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
Translate this idiom in a way that will not offend or embarrass people, especially when read aloud in public. See how you translated “lain with” in Gen 26:10.
and Israel heard
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמַ֖ע יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)See how you translated heard in Gen 34:5, 7. Alternate translation: [but Israel found out about it] or [and Israel was told by someone about it]
Now the sons of Jacob were twelve
Quote: וַיִּֽהְי֥וּ בְנֵֽי־יַעֲקֹ֖ב שְׁנֵ֥ים עָשָֽׂר (1)Alternate translation: [After the birth of Benjamin, Jacob now had a total of twelve sons]
Genesis 35:23
The sons of Leah {were
Quote: בְּנֵ֣י לֵאָ֔ה (1)Throughout verses 23-26, many translations have a colon (:) instead of were. Do what is best in your language. See what you did in chapter 10. Alternate translation: [The sons he had with his wife Leah were] or [These are the names of the sons he had with his wife Leah:]
Genesis 35:24
The sons of Rachel {were} Joseph and Benjamin
Quote: בְּנֵ֣י רָחֵ֔ל יוֹסֵ֖ף וּבִנְיָמִֽן (1)Alternate translation: [The sons Jacob had with Rachel were Joseph and Benjamin] or [These are the names of the sons that Jacob had with his wife Rachel: Joseph and Benjamin]
Genesis 35:26
And the sons of Zilpah, the maidservant of Leah, {were} Gad and Asher
Quote: וּבְנֵ֥י זִלְפָּ֛ה שִׁפְחַ֥ת לֵאָ֖ה גָּ֣ד וְאָשֵׁ֑ר (1)Consider again how you translated maidservant throughout the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:16, 16:1-3, 5-6, 8; 20:14; 24:35; 25:12; 29:24, 29; 30:4, 7, 9-10, 12, 18, 43; 32:5, 22; 33:1-2, 6; 35:25-26. It may be necessary to translate this word in slightly different ways, depending on the context. Compare that to how you translated a different Hebrew word that has a similar meaning (“slave/servant woman”); see Gen 31:33 for a list of where this word occurs in Genesis.
Those {are} the sons of Jacob who were born to him
Quote: אֵ֚לֶּה בְּנֵ֣י יַעֲקֹ֔ב אֲשֶׁ֥ר יֻלַּד־ל֖וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [All those were the sons Jacob had]
in Paddan Aram
Quote: בְּפַדַּ֥ן אֲרָֽם (1)Jacob started having children during the time he was living with Laban in Paddan Aram, but his last son Benjamin was not born until after they had left there (verse 18). Translate this in a way that allows for that.
Genesis 35:27
Then Jacob came to Isaac his father
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֤א יַעֲקֹב֙ אֶל־יִצְחָ֣ק אָבִ֔יו (1)Alternate translation: [Then Jacob came home to his father Isaac who was living] or [Then Jacob continued traveling and came to where his father Isaac was living]
in Mamre
Quote: מַמְרֵ֖א (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Be consistent here with how you spelled Mamre in Gen 23:17, 19.
Kiriath Arba, which {is} Hebron
Quote: קִרְיַ֣ת הָֽאַרְבַּ֑ע הִ֣וא חֶבְר֔וֹן (1)See how you translated Gen 23:2, which says that Kiriath Arba (where Sarah died) was also known as Hebron. Alternate translation: [which is now called Kiriath Arba, that is, Hebron] or [which is also known as Kiriath Arba or Hebron]
where Abraham and Isaac had sojourned
Quote: אֲשֶׁר־גָּֽר & אַבְרָהָ֖ם וְיִצְחָֽק (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [where Abraham and Isaac and their families had stayed for a while as outsiders] or [That is where Isaac and his family had been staying for a while as foreigners and where his father Abraham had also stayed for a while]
Genesis 35:28
And the days of Isaac were 180 years
Quote: וַיִּֽהְי֖וּ יְמֵ֣י יִצְחָ֑ק מְאַ֥ת שָׁנָ֖ה וּשְׁמֹנִ֥ים שָׁנָֽה (1)See how you translated the days of in Gen 5:4-31 and 11:32.
Genesis 35:29
Then Isaac exhaled and died
Quote: וַיִּגְוַ֨ע יִצְחָ֤ק וַיָּ֨מָת֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
See how you translated exhaled in Gen 25:8 and 17. Alternate translation: [Then he breathed out for the last time and died] or [Then he took his final breath and died]
and he was gathered to
Quote: וַיֵּאָ֣סֶף אֶל (1)See how you translated this phrase in Gen 25:8 and 17. Alternate translation: [and he was taken by God to be with] or [and God took his spirit to be with]
his people
Quote: עַמָּ֔יו (1)Alternate translation: [his relatives who had already died] or [his relatives who had gone before him] or [his deceased relatives]
old and full of days
Quote: זָקֵ֖ן וּשְׂבַ֣ע יָמִ֑ים (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, “Then, after living a long, full life, he breathed/took his last breath, died and joined his ancestors/relatives who had died before him.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [He was very old and had lived a long, full life]
And Esau and Jacob, his sons, buried him
Quote: וַיִּקְבְּר֣וּ אֹת֔וֹ עֵשָׂ֥ו וְיַעֲקֹ֖ב בָּנָֽיו (1)See how you translated “his sons … buried him” in Gen 25:9.
Genesis 36
Genesis 36:1
And these {are} the generations of Esau
Quote: וְאֵ֛לֶּה תֹּלְד֥וֹת עֵשָׂ֖ו (1)See how you translated the generations of in 25:12, 19. Alternate translation: [Now this is the family-line of Esau] or [These are the descendants of Esau] or [Here is the history about the family of Esau]
who {is} Edom
Quote: ה֥וּא אֱדֽוֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The name Edom means “red” and is the nickname that Esau got for trading his birthright to Jacob for some reddish-colored stew (Genesis 25:29-34). The region of Edom and the Edomites were named after Esau, which is probably why this chapter repeatedly mentions that Esau is Edom. Alternate translation: [who was also called Edom] or [that is, Edom]
Genesis 36:2
Esau had taken his wives from the daughters of Canaan
Quote: עֵשָׂ֛ו לָקַ֥ח אֶת־נָשָׁ֖יו מִבְּנ֣וֹת כְּנָ֑עַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Only the first two wives mentioned in this chapter were Canaanites; see the comment about Basemath at verse 3. The Canaanites were the descendants of Noah’s grandson Canaan (Ham’s son) and included the Hittites and Hivites (verse 2; Genesis 10:15-18) and several other people groups. You could put some of that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: [Esau had chosen two of his wives from among the Canaanite women:] or [Esau had married two women who were descendants of Canaan]
Adah
Quote: אֶת־עָדָ֗ה (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [whose names were Adah]
the daughter of Elon the Hittite
Quote: בַּת־אֵילוֹן֙ הַֽחִתִּ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Make sure your translation does not sound like Elon was the only Hittite. See how you translated “Hittites” in Gen 27:46. Alternate translation: [whose father was Elon, who was a descendant of Heth] or [the daughter of a man named Elon, who was a member of the Heth people group]
and Oholibamah
Quote: וְאֶת־אָהֳלִֽיבָמָה֙ (1)Notice that the names of Esau’s two Canaanite wives here are different from the names of his wives mentioned in Gen 26:34. It could be that they each had two names, or these may be different wives that he married later. Alternate translation: [and also Oholibamah] or [as well as Oholibamah]
the daughter of Anah {and} the {grand}daughter of
Quote: בַּת־עֲנָ֔ה בַּת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Notice that Elon, Anah, and Zibeon are the names of men here, not women.
Zibeon the Hivite
Quote: צִבְע֖וֹן הַֽחִוִּֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Make sure that your translation of this phrase does not sound like Zibeon was the only Hivite. Consider again how you translated “Hivites” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 10:17; 34:2; 36:2. Alternate translation: [Zibeon who was a descendant of Hivi] or [Zibeon who was a member of the Hivi people group]
Genesis 36:3
and Basemath
Quote: וְאֶת־בָּשְׂמַ֥ת (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Since this Basemath was a daughter of Ishmael (who was a descendant of Noah’s son Shem), she was not a Canaanite, in contrast to Esau’s first two wives (verse 2). She was also known as Mahalath (Gen 28:9); you could include some of that information in a footnote. Be consistent here with how you spelled Basemath (a different woman with the same name) in Gen 26:34.
the daughter of Ishmael {and} the sister of Nebaioth
Quote: בַּת־יִשְׁמָעֵ֖אל אֲח֥וֹת נְבָיֽוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
Since Nebaioth was Ishmael’s oldest child (Gen 25:13), Basemath (Mahalath) was his younger sister, probably from the same mother. Use a kinship term here in your language that fits with those facts. See how you translated the sister of Nebaioth in Gen 28:9. Alternate translation: [whose father was Ishmael and whose older brother was Nebaioth]
Genesis 36:4
And Adah bore Eliphaz for Esau
Quote: וַתֵּ֧לֶד עָדָ֛ה לְעֵשָׂ֖ו אֶת־אֱלִיפָ֑ז (1)Alternate translation: [Adah had a son for Esau whom they named Eliphaz]
and Basemath bore Reuel
Quote: וּבָ֣שְׂמַ֔ת יָלְדָ֖ה אֶת־רְעוּאֵֽל (1)Consider whether or not it is best in your language to break this long sentence into two or more shorter sentences. Alternate translation: [while his wife Basemath bore a son named Reuel]
Genesis 36:5
Jeush and Jalam and Korah
Quote: אֶת־יעיש וְאֶת־יַעְלָ֖ם וְאֶת־קֹ֑רַח (1)Alternate translation: [sons whom they named Jeush, Jalam, and Korah]
Genesis 36:6
Then Esau took his wives and his sons and his daughters
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֣ח עֵשָׂ֡ו אֶת־נָ֠שָׁיו וְאֶת־בָּנָ֣יו וְאֶת־בְּנֹתָיו֮ (1)Alternate translation: [Later Esau took his wives, his sons, his daughters]
and all the people of his house
Quote: וְאֶת־כָּל־נַפְשׁ֣וֹת בֵּיתוֹ֒ (1)This phrase refers to other relatives (besides Esau’s wife and children), as well as servants or slaves who lived with him.
and his livestock and all his animal{s} and all his possession{s
Quote: וְאֶת־מִקְנֵ֣הוּ וְאֶת־כָּל־בְּהֶמְתּ֗וֹ וְאֵת֙ כָּל־קִנְיָנ֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [as well as his livestock and all the rest of his animals and all the other possessions]
that he had acquired in the land of Canaan
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר רָכַ֖שׁ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנָ֑עַן (1)See how you translated acquired and land of Canaan in Gen 12:5 and 31:18. Alternate translation: [that he had gotten while they lived in the land of Canaan]
and he went to a land from the presence of Jacob his brother
Quote: וַיֵּ֣לֶךְ אֶל־אֶ֔רֶץ מִפְּנֵ֖י יַעֲקֹ֥ב אָחִֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to put this clause at the beginning of this verse and say, “Then/Later Esau moved to a land that was away from his brother Jacob. He took with him his wives …” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [and he moved to an area that was away from his brother Jacob] or [and he traveled to a different region and settled there, away from where his brother Jacob was living]
Genesis 36:7
because
Quote: כִּֽי (1)Alternate translation: [He did that because] or [The reason Esau moved away is that]
their possession{s} were {too} great for them to remain together
Quote: הָיָ֧ה רְכוּשָׁ֛ם רָ֖ב מִשֶּׁ֣בֶת יַחְדָּ֑ו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The phrase their possessions is general, but here it refers primarily to livestock. Make sure your translation of this phrase refers to both Esau and Jacob’s livestock, not just Esau’s. Alternate translation: [he and Jacob both owned so many livestock that they could no longer live near each other] or [they both owned so many livestock that they could not live together in the same area]
the land of their sojournings
Quote: אֶ֤רֶץ מְגֽוּרֵיהֶם֙ (1)See how you translated Gen 13:6, which is similar in content to this verse. Alternate translation: [The land where they were living]
and … was not able to support them because of their livestock
Quote: וְלֹ֨א יָֽכְלָ֜ה & לָשֵׂ֣את אֹתָ֔ם מִפְּנֵ֖י מִקְנֵיהֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-versebridge
For some languages it is necessary to switch the order of verses 6 and 7, and say, “After a while, Esau and Jacob had so many animals and other possessions that the land was not able to support both their families. So Esau took his wives …” If you do this in your translation, you should label these verses as “6-7.” Alternate translation: [was just not big enough to feed them all because they owned so many animals] or [did not have enough grazing areas or water to support all the livestock that both families owned]
Genesis 36:8
So Esau settled
Quote: וַיֵּ֤שֶׁב עֵשָׂו֙ (1)Alternate translation: [That is why Esau and his family] or [That is the reason Esau took his family and]
in the mountains of Seir
Quote: בְּהַ֣ר שֵׂעִ֔יר (1)Esau had already been living in the region of Seir (Genesis 32:3, 33:16). Here he moves to the part of that region that had mountains. To make that clear, you could put that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: [moved to the hill-country in the land of Seir] or [went to live in the Seir Mountains]
Esau
Quote: עֵשָׂ֖ו (1)Alternate translation: [That is the history about Esau]
who {is} Edom
Quote: ה֥וּא אֱדֽוֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Some translations put this phrase earlier in this verse and say, “So Esau, that is, Edom, moved with his family to the mountains of Seir and settled there.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [who was also known as Edom] or [who was also called Edom]
Genesis 36:9
Now these {are} the generations of Esau
Quote: וְאֵ֛לֶּה תֹּלְד֥וֹת עֵשָׂ֖ו (1)Consider again how you translated generations in the book of Genesis when it is followed by a genealogy (list of names). See Gen 5:1, 10:1, 11:10, 25:12, 36:9. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [What follows is more of the history of Esau] or [This is a more detailed genealogy about the descendants of Esau]
the father of the Edomites
Quote: אֲבִ֣י אֱד֑וֹם (1)Alternate translation: [who was the ancestor of the Edom people group]
in the mountains of Seir
Quote: בְּהַ֖ר שֵׂעִֽיר (1)Consider again how you translated mountains or “hill country” throughout the book of Genesis. See Gen 10:30; 12:8; 14:6, 10; 19:17, 19, 30; 22:2, 14; 31:21, 23, 25, 54; 36:8-9, and see the note about this at 10:30. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [who live in the Seir Hills] or [who live in the hill-country of Seir]
Genesis 36:10
These {are} the names of the sons of Esau
Quote: אֵ֖לֶּה שְׁמ֣וֹת בְּנֵֽי־עֵשָׂ֑ו (1)Only two of Esau’s many sons are listed in verse 10.
Eliphaz, the son of Esau’s wife Adah
Quote: אֱלִיפַ֗ז בֶּן־עָדָה֙ אֵ֣שֶׁת עֵשָׂ֔ו (1)Be consistent here with how you spelled Eliphaz and Adah in verse 4. Alternate translation: [Eliphaz, who was the son of his wife Adah] or [Eliphaz, whom Esau had with his wife Adah]
and Reuel, the son of Esau’s wife Basemath
Quote: רְעוּאֵ֕ל בֶּן־בָּשְׂמַ֖ת אֵ֥שֶׁת עֵשָֽׂו (1)See how you spelled Basemath and Reuel in verse 4. Alternate translation: [and Reuel, who was the son of his wife Basemath] or [and Reuel, whom Esau had with his wife Basemath]
Genesis 36:11
And the sons of Eliphaz were
Quote: וַיִּהְי֖וּ בְּנֵ֣י אֱלִיפָ֑ז (1)Alternate translation: [The sons of Eliphaz and his wife were]
Genesis 36:12
And Timna was a concubine for Esau’s son Eliphaz, and she bore Amalek for Eliphaz
Quote: וְתִמְנַ֣ע ׀ הָיְתָ֣ה פִילֶ֗גֶשׁ לֶֽאֱלִיפַז֙ בֶּן־עֵשָׂ֔ו וַתֵּ֥לֶד לֶאֱלִיפַ֖ז אֶת־עֲמָלֵ֑ק (1)See how you translated concubine in Gen 22:24, 25:6; 35:22. Alternate translation: [Eliphaz also had a servant-wife named Timna, and she had a son with him named Amalek] or [Eliphaz and his concubine Timna had a son they named Amalek]
Those {were} the grandsons of
Quote: אֵ֕לֶּה בְּנֵ֥י (1)Alternate translation: [All those sons of Eliphaz were grandsons of]
Adah, the wife of Esau
Quote: עָדָ֖ה אֵ֥שֶׁת עֵשָֽׂו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Make sure it is clear in your translation that Adah’s grandsons were also Esau’s grandsons.
Genesis 36:13
And these {were} the sons of Reuel
Quote: וְאֵ֨לֶּה֙ בְּנֵ֣י רְעוּאֵ֔ל (1)Alternate translation: [The sons of Reuel were named] or [Reuel and his wife had these sons:]
Those were the grandsons of
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּ֣ה הָי֔וּ בְּנֵ֥י (1)Alternate translation: [Those sons of Reuel were grandsons of]
Basemath, the wife of Esau
Quote: בָשְׂמַ֖ת אֵ֥שֶׁת עֵשָֽׂו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Make sure it is clear in your translation that Basemath’s grandsons were also Esau’s grandsons. See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 12.
Genesis 36:14
And these were the sons of Esau’s wife Oholibamah
Quote: וְאֵ֣לֶּה הָי֗וּ בְּנֵ֨י אָהֳלִיבָמָ֧ה & אֵ֣שֶׁת עֵשָׂ֑ו (1)Alternate translation: [Here are the sons that Esau had with his wife Oholibamah]
the daughter of Anah {and} the {grand}daughter of Zibeon
Quote: בַת־עֲנָ֛ה בַּת־צִבְע֖וֹן (1)See how you translated these phrases in verse 2. Alternate translation: [whose father was Anah and whose grandfather was Zibeon:]
and she bore Jeush and Jalam and Korah for Esau
Quote: וַתֵּ֣לֶד לְעֵשָׂ֔ו אֶת־יעיש וְאֶת־יַעְלָ֖ם וְאֶת־קֹֽרַח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is clearer or more natural to change the order of clauses in this sentence and say, “Esau and his wife Oholibamah had sons whom they named Jeush, Jalam, and Korah. Oholibamah was the daughter of Anah and the granddaughter of Zibeon.” or “The sons that Oholibamah had with Esau were Jesush, Jalam, and Korah. She was the daughter of …” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [She had sons whom they named Jeush, Jalam, and Korah]
Genesis 36:15
These {were
Quote: אֵ֖לֶּה (1)Alternate translation: [Here is a list of] or [The following are]
were} Chief Teman, Chief Omar, Chief Zepho, Chief Kenaz
Quote: אַלּ֤וּף תֵּימָן֙ אַלּ֣וּף אוֹמָ֔ר אַלּ֥וּף צְפ֖וֹ אַלּ֥וּף קְנַֽז (1)Alternate translation: [who became chiefs were Teman, Omar, Zepho, Kenaz] or [who became tribal leaders were Teman, Omar, Zepho, Kenaz]
Genesis 36:16
Chief Korah, Chief Gatam, Chief Amalek
Quote: אַלּֽוּף־קֹ֛רַח אַלּ֥וּף גַּעְתָּ֖ם אַלּ֣וּף עֲמָלֵ֑ק (1)Make sure you are consistent in whether or not you use the title Chief in verses 15-16.
Those {were} the chiefs of Eliphaz in the land of Edom
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה אַלּוּפֵ֤י אֱלִיפַז֙ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ אֱד֔וֹם (1)Be consistent with how you spelled Eliphaz throughout this chapter; see verses 4, 10-12, 15-16. Alternate translation: [Those are the chiefs who descended from Eliphaz and lived in the region called Edom] or [All those sons of Eliphaz were tribal leaders who lived in the region of Edom]
Those {were} the grandsons of
Quote: אֵ֖לֶּה בְּנֵ֥י (1)Alternate translation: [They were the grandsons of]
Adah
Quote: עָדָֽה (1)Make sure it is clear in your translation that Adah’s grandsons were also Esau’s grandsons. Also, be consistent with how you spelled Adah in the book of Genesis. See Gen 4:19-20, 23; 36:2, 4, 10, 12, 16.
Genesis 36:17
Those {were} the chiefs of Reuel in the land of Edom
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה אַלּוּפֵ֤י רְעוּאֵל֙ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ אֱד֔וֹם (1)See how you translated a similar clause in verse 16. Also be consistent with how you spelled Reuel throughout this chapter; see verses 4, 10, 13, 17. Alternate translation: [They were the chiefs who descended from Reuel and lived in the region called Edom] or [All those sons of Reuel were clan leaders who lived in the region of Edom]
Those {were} the grandsons of
Quote: אֵ֕לֶּה בְּנֵ֥י (1)See how you translated this phrase in verses 12, 13 and 16. Alternate translation: [All those sons of Reuel were grandsons of]
Basemath, the wife of Esau
Quote: בָשְׂמַ֖ת אֵ֥שֶׁת עֵשָֽׂו (1)See how translated this phrase in verse 13 and a similar phrase in verse 12. Also be consistent with how you spelled Basemath in the book of Genesis. See Gen 26:34-35; 36:3-4, 10, 13, 17.
Genesis 36:18
Those {were} the chiefs of Esau’s wife Oholibamah
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה אַלּוּפֵ֞י אָֽהֳלִיבָמָ֛ה & אֵ֥שֶׁת עֵשָֽׂו (1)Alternate translation: [They were the chiefs who descended from Esau and his wife Oholibamah] or [They were the tribal leaders …]
Genesis 36:19
He {is} Edom
Quote: ה֥וּא אֱדֽוֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Some translations put this phrase earlier in this verse and say, “All those chiefs were the descendants of Esau, that is, Edom, and each one led his own family group.” Do what is best in your language. See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 8. Alternate translation: [Esau was also known as Edom] or [Esau was also called Edom] or [That is the record about Edom]
Genesis 36:20
These {were} the sons of Seir the Horite who were inhabiting the land
Quote: אֵ֤לֶּה בְנֵֽי־שֵׂעִיר֙ הַחֹרִ֔י יֹשְׁבֵ֖י הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)The name “Horites” is an alternate name for the Hivites (verse 2). Also, this genealogy is mentioned here because Seir was the ancestor of Esau’s Canaanite wife Oholibamah (verse 25) and the Seir mountains where Esau was living (verse 8) were probably named after Seir. You could put some of that information in a footnote. See how you translated “Horites” in Gen 14:6. Alternate translation: [Here is a list of the descendants of Seir the Horite who were also living in that land:] or [The sons of Seir the Horite who were also living in that land were]
Genesis 36:21
Those {were} the chiefs of the Horites, the sons of Seir
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה אַלּוּפֵ֧י הַחֹרִ֛י בְּנֵ֥י שֵׂעִ֖יר (1)See how you translated the names of people groups in verses 2. Alternate translation: [Those descendants of Seir became the chiefs of the Horites] or [They were the descendants of Seir who became tribal leaders for the Horites]
in the land of Edom
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ אֱדֽוֹם (1)Alternate translation: [who were living in the region of Edom]
Genesis 36:22
And the sons of Lotan were Hori and Hemam
Quote: וַיִּהְי֥וּ בְנֵי־לוֹטָ֖ן חֹרִ֣י וְהֵימָ֑ם (1)Some translations spell the name Hemam as “Heman” or “Homam.” You could use any of these spellings in your translation.
and the sister of Lotan {was} Timna
Quote: וַאֲח֥וֹת לוֹטָ֖ן תִּמְנָֽע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
Timna became a concubine of Esau’s son Eliphaz (verse 12). This genealogy (verses 20-22) also shows that she was the daughter of Chief Seir (since her brother Lotan was the son of Chief Seir). You could put some of that information in a footnote. Also, according to Jewish history outside the Bible, Timna was Lotan’s younger sister. If your language has a special term for “younger sister” or “older brother,” you could use one of those here. Alternate translation: [and the name of his sister was Timna]
Genesis 36:23
Alvan and Manahath and Ebal, Shepho, and Onam
Quote: עַלְוָ֥ן וּמָנַ֖חַת וְעֵיבָ֑ל שְׁפ֖וֹ וְאוֹנָֽם (1)Alternate translation: [Alvan, Manahath, Ebal, Shepho, and Onam]
Genesis 36:24
He {is} Anah who found
Quote: ה֣וּא עֲנָ֗ה אֲשֶׁ֨ר מָצָ֤א (1)Alternate translation: [He is the same Anah who found] or [Anah is the one who found]
the hot springs
Quote: אֶת־הַיֵּמִם֙ (1)The term used here in the Hebrew text occurs only once in the Bible and its meaning is not certain. Most translations have either hot springs or “water.” Alternate translation: [water]
in the wilderness when he was pasturing the donkeys for Zibeon his father
Quote: בַּמִּדְבָּ֔ר בִּרְעֹת֥וֹ אֶת־הַחֲמֹרִ֖ים לְצִבְע֥וֹן אָבִֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
See how you translated “pasture” in Gen 29:7.
Genesis 36:26
Hemdan and Eshban and Ithran and Keran
Quote: חֶמְדָּ֥ן וְאֶשְׁבָּ֖ן וְיִתְרָ֥ן וּכְרָֽן (1)The Hebrew name Keran can also be spelled “Cheran.” Each of these spellings is found in many translations. Be consistent here with how you spelled Dishon in verse 21.
Genesis 36:27
These {were} the sons of Ezer: Bilhan and Zaavan and Akan
Quote: אֵ֖לֶּה בְּנֵי־אֵ֑צֶר בִּלְהָ֥ן וְזַעֲוָ֖ן וַעֲקָֽן (1)Be consistent here with how you spelled Ezer in verses 20-21.
Genesis 36:29
These {were} the chiefs of the Horites
Quote: אֵ֖לֶּה אַלּוּפֵ֣י הַחֹרִ֑י (1)Alternate translation: [The leaders over the Horite clans were] or [The Horites who became chiefs were]
Chief Lotan, Chief Shobal, Chief Zibeon, Chief Anah
Quote: אַלּ֤וּף לוֹטָן֙ אַלּ֣וּף שׁוֹבָ֔ל אַלּ֥וּף צִבְע֖וֹן אַלּ֥וּף עֲנָֽה (1)Be consistent here with how you spelled Lotan and Shobal in verse 20, how you spelled Zibeon in verses 2, 14, 20, 24, 29, and how you spelled Anah in verses 2, 14, 18, 20, 24-25, 29.
Genesis 36:30
Chief Dishon, Chief Ezer, Chief Dishan
Quote: אַלּ֥וּף דִּשֹׁ֛ן אַלּ֥וּף אֵ֖צֶר אַלּ֣וּף דִּישָׁ֑ן (1)Be consistent here with how you spelled Dishon in verses 21, 25-26, how you spelled Ezer in verses 21, 27, 30, and how you spelled Dishan in verses 21, 28, 30.
Those {were} the chiefs of the Horites, according to their clans
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה אַלּוּפֵ֧י הַחֹרִ֛י לְאַלֻּפֵיהֶ֖ם (1)Be consistent with how you translated Horites in the book of Genesis. See Gen 14:6; 36:20-21, 29-30. Alternate translation: [Those were the Horite chiefs. They had their own family groups] or [Those were the tribal leaders for the Horites. They had their own tribes]
in the land of Seir
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ שֵׂעִֽיר (1)Be consistent with how you spelled Seir in the book of Genesis. See Gen 14:6; 32:3; 33:14, 16; 36:8-9, 20-21, 30. Alternate translation: [and lived in the region of Seir] or [who were living in the region of Seir]
Genesis 36:31
And these {were} the kings
Quote: וְאֵ֨לֶּה֙ הַמְּלָכִ֔ים (1)See how you translated kings in Gen 17:6 and 35:11. Be sure to distinguish kings (verses 31-39) from “chiefs” (verses 15-19, 21, 28, 40-43) in your translation of this chapter. Alternate translation: [These are the names of the kings] or [This is a history about the kings]
who reigned in the land of Edom
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר מָלְכ֖וּ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ אֱד֑וֹם (1)Alternate translation: [who ruled over the people of the region of Edom]
before a king reigned for the sons of Israel
Quote: לִפְנֵ֥י מְלָךְ־מֶ֖לֶךְ לִבְנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)See how you translated the sons of Israel in Gen 32:3. Alternate translation: [before there were any kings ruling over the descendants of Israel] or [during the time period when the Israelites did not yet have their own king]
Genesis 36:32
And Bela the son of Beor reigned in Edom
Quote: וַיִּמְלֹ֣ךְ בֶּאֱד֔וֹם בֶּ֖לַע בֶּן־בְּע֑וֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Alternate translation: [Bela, who was the son of Beor, was the first king to rule over the people of the region of Edom] or [The first king to reign over the people of the region of Edom was Bela, the son of Beor]
and the name of his city {was} Dinhabah
Quote: וְשֵׁ֥ם עִיר֖וֹ דִּנְהָֽבָה (1)Dinhabah was probably King Bela’s hometown and his capital city that he ruled the land of Edom from. Alternate translation: [His capital city that he ruled from was Dinhabah]
Genesis 36:33
and Jobab the son of Zerah from Bozrah reigned in his place
Quote: וַיִּמְלֹ֣ךְ תַּחְתָּ֔יו יוֹבָ֥ב בֶּן־זֶ֖רַח מִבָּצְרָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
The phrase from Bozrah probably means this was Jobab’s hometown, which he ruled from, much like the meaning of “his city” in verses 32, 35, and 39. Alternate translation: [Jobab, who was the son of Zerah, succeeded Bela as king and ruled from his hometown of Bozrah]
Genesis 36:34
and Husham from the land of the Temanites reigned in his place
Quote: וַיִּמְלֹ֣ךְ תַּחְתָּ֔יו חֻשָׁ֖ם מֵאֶ֥רֶץ הַתֵּימָנִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
King Husham may have been a descendant of Esau’s grandson Teman (verse 11). You could put that information in a footnote. Also compare how you translated verse 33. Alternate translation: [Husham succeeded Jobab as king and reigned from his hometown, which was in the region where the Temanites lived]
Genesis 36:35
and … reigned in his place
Quote: וַיִּמְלֹ֨ךְ תַּחְתָּ֜יו (1)Alternate translation: [succeeded him as king]
who struck the Midianites
Quote: הַמַּכֶּ֤ה אֶת־מִדְיָן֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom struck in Gen 14:5, 7. Alternate translation: [King Hadad is the one who defeated the Midianites in war]
in the field of Moab
Quote: בִּשְׂדֵ֣ה מוֹאָ֔ב (1)Moab was a large region located to the east of the Dead Sea. This battle probably took place in the countryside or an unpopulated area (a field) within this region. Alternate translation: [in a field in the region of Moab] or [in the country of Moab]
And the name of his city {was} Avith
Quote: וְשֵׁ֥ם עִיר֖וֹ עֲוִֽית (1)See how you translated a similar sentence in verse 32. Alternate translation: [His capital city that he ruled from was Avith]
Genesis 36:36
and Samlah from Masrekah reigned in his place
Quote: וַיִּמְלֹ֣ךְ תַּחְתָּ֔יו שַׂמְלָ֖ה מִמַּשְׂרֵקָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Alternate translation: [Samlah succeeded Hadad as king and ruled from his hometown of Masrekah]
Genesis 36:37
and Shaul from Rehoboth {on} the river reigned in his place
Quote: וַיִּמְלֹ֣ךְ תַּחְתָּ֔יו שָׁא֖וּל מֵרְחֹב֥וֹת הַנָּהָֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
See how you translated similar sentences in verses 33, 34 and 36. Alternate translation: [Shaul succeeded him as king and ruled from his hometown of Rehoboth, which was beside the Euphrates River]
Genesis 36:38
Then Shaul died, and Baal-Hanan the son of Acbor reigned in his place
Quote: וַיָּ֖מָת שָׁא֑וּל וַיִּמְלֹ֣ךְ תַּחְתָּ֔יו בַּ֥עַל חָנָ֖ן בֶּן־עַכְבּֽוֹר (1)Alternate translation: [When King Shaul died, Baal-Hanan, who was the son of Acbor, took his place as king] or [… succeeded him as king]
Genesis 36:39
Then Baal-Hanan the son of Acbor died, and Hadar reigned
Quote: וַיָּמָת֮ בַּ֣עַל חָנָ֣ן בֶּן־עַכְבּוֹר֒ וַיִּמְלֹ֤ךְ & הֲדַ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Most translations follow the Hebrew text and have Hadar here. Some translations (and ancient versions such as SP, LXX, Syriac, and Vulgate) have “Hadad” here instead, in order to spell this name the same way it is spelled in 1 Chronicles 1:50-51. However, that could cause confusion, because “Hadad” is also the name of a different king in verses 35-36 above.
and … reigned in his place
Quote: וַיִּמְלֹ֤ךְ תַּחְתָּיו֙ (1)Consider again how you translated this phrase in verses 33-39. Alternate translation: [took his place as king] or [succeeded him as king]
and the name of his city {was} Pau
Quote: וְשֵׁ֥ם עִיר֖וֹ פָּ֑עוּ (1)Consider whether it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also see how you translated a similar clause in verses 32 and 35. Alternate translation: [His capital city that he ruled from was Pau]
the daughter of Matred {and} the granddaughter of Me-Zahab
Quote: בַּת־מַטְרֵ֔ד בַּ֖ת מֵ֥י זָהָֽב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Notice that Matred and Me-Zahab are the names of men. See how you translated similar phrases in verses 2 and 14. Alternate translation: [whose father was Matred and whose grandfather was Me-Zahab]
Genesis 36:40
And these {are} the names of
Quote: וְ֠אֵלֶּה שְׁמ֞וֹת (1)Alternate translation: [The following list of names includes]
the chiefs of Esau, according to their clans, according to their places, by their names
Quote: אַלּוּפֵ֤י עֵשָׂו֙ לְמִשְׁפְּחֹתָ֔ם לִמְקֹמֹתָ֖ם בִּשְׁמֹתָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Notice that the chiefs listed below are different from those listed in the verses above, except for Kenaz and Teman (verse 15). Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to break up this long sentence into two shorter sentences. Alternate translation: [more of the chiefs who descended from Esau. These chiefs led their own family groups in their own territories, which were named after them:] or [more of the descendants of Esau who were tribal leaders; the tribes and the regions where they lived were named after them:]
Chief Timna, Chief Alvah, Chief Jetheth
Quote: אַלּ֥וּף תִּמְנָ֛ע אַלּ֥וּף עַֽלְוָ֖ה אַלּ֥וּף יְתֵֽת (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. (1) Most translations treat all the names in verses 40-43 as the names of chiefs (as in the ULT and UST of these verses). (2) However, some scholars think that all the names in verses 40-43 are the names of regions or clans and say, “These are/were the names of the clans/tribes that descended from Esau. Each clan/tribe lived in the land of Edom in its own region that was named after that clan/tribe. The names of the clans/tribes were TImna, Alvan … Iram. Those were the names of the clans/tribes of the Edomites. Each of the clans/tribes lived in their own part of the land of Edom that they owned …”
Genesis 36:41
Chief Oholibamah, Chief Elah, Chief Pinon
Quote: אַלּ֧וּף אָהֳלִיבָמָ֛ה אַלּ֥וּף אֵלָ֖ה אַלּ֥וּף פִּינֹֽן (1)Make sure that the way you translate verses 41-43 fits with the interpretation you followed in verse 40.
Genesis 36:43
Chief Magdiel, Chief Iram
Quote: אַלּ֥וּף מַגְדִּיאֵ֖ל אַלּ֣וּף עִירָ֑ם (1)Make sure you are consistent in whether or not you use the title Chief in verses 40-43.
Those {were} the chiefs of
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה ׀ אַלּוּפֵ֣י (1)Consider again how you translated “chief” throughout this chapter; see verses 15-19, 21, 29-30, 40-43. Alternate translation: [Those were the names of more of the chiefs over] or [All of those were chiefs over] or [Those were more of the clan leaders of]
Edom
Quote: אֱד֗וֹם (1)Alternate translation: [the Edom people group;]
according to their dwellings
Quote: לְמֹֽשְׁבֹתָם֙ (1)Alternate translation: [each of them led their own tribes in the places where they lived]
in the land of their possession
Quote: בְּאֶ֣רֶץ אֲחֻזָּתָ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [in the land that they owned]
That {was} Esau
Quote: ה֥וּא עֵשָׂ֖ו (1)Alternate translation: [That was the record about Esau] or [This concludes the history about Esau]
the father of the Edomites
Quote: אֲבִ֥י אֱדֽוֹם (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 9. Also compare how you translated the names of other people groups in this chapter, including “Hittite” and “Hivite” in verse 2; Edomites in verse 9; “Horite/Horites” in verses 20, 21, 29, 30; “Temanites” in verse 34; and “Midianites” in verse 35. Alternate translation: [who was the ancestor of the Edom people group]
Genesis 37
Genesis 37:1
And Jacob lived
Quote: וַיֵּ֣שֶׁב יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Chapter 37 continues the history about Jacob that left off at the end of chapter 35. Begin this chapter in a way that is natural in your language. Make sure the way you translate lived allows for the fact that Jacob was already living in Canaan and had settled near the city of Hebron, where his father and grandfather had lived previously (Gen 35:27). Alternate translation: [Now Jacob was still living]
in the land of his father’s sojournings, in the land of Canaan
Quote: בְּאֶ֖רֶץ מְגוּרֵ֣י אָבִ֑יו בְּאֶ֖רֶץ כְּנָֽעַן (1)See how you translated “sojourned” in Gen 35:27 and the land of Canaan in Gen 35:6. Alternate translation: [in the land of Canaan where his father Isaac had lived for a while as a outsider]
Genesis 37:2
These {are} the generations of Jacob
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה ׀ תֹּלְד֣וֹת יַעֲקֹ֗ב (1)Consider again how you translated These are the generations of in the book of Genesis. See Gen 2:4; 6:9; 11:27; 25:19; 36:1; 37:2, where what follows is a narrative or history of events. Compare that to Gen 5:1; 10:1; 11:10; 25:12; 36:9, where what follows is more of a genealogy (list of names). It may be necessary to translate this phrase in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [This is more of the history about Jacob and his family:] or [What follows tells more about Jacob and his family:]
Joseph, a son of seventeen years
Quote: יוֹסֵ֞ף בֶּן־שְׁבַֽע־עֶשְׂרֵ֤ה שָׁנָה֙ (1)This verse may be referring to a single incident or it may be referring to what happened regularly.
was shepherding the flock{s
Quote: הָיָ֨ה רֹעֶ֤ה & בַּצֹּ֔אן (1)See how you translated flocks in Gen 4:2.
with his brothers, and he {was} a young man with
Quote: אֶת־אֶחָיו֙ & וְה֣וּא נַ֗עַר אֶת (1)As the youngest of these brothers, Joseph was their helper as they took care of their father’s flocks. Alternate translation: [as an helper for his brothers who were]
the sons of Bilhah and the sons of Zilpah, his father’s wives
Quote: בְּנֵ֥י בִלְהָ֛ה וְאֶת־בְּנֵ֥י זִלְפָּ֖ה נְשֵׁ֣י אָבִ֑יו (1)Be consistent here with how you spelled Bilhah in Gen 29:29 and Zilpah in 29:24.
and Joseph brought a bad report about them to their father
Quote: וַיָּבֵ֥א יוֹסֵ֛ף אֶת־דִּבָּתָ֥ם רָעָ֖ה אֶל־אֲבִיהֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The Hebrew text does not specify what Joseph’s brothers had done wrong, so neither should your translation. Also, make sure your translation of their father does not sound like the sons of Bilhah and Zilpah had a different father than Joseph had. Alternate translation: [and he told his father about the bad things they were doing] or [and he gave bad reports to his father about them]
Genesis 37:3
Now Israel
Quote: וְיִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This verse introduces background information for the events that happen next. Consider what is the best way to begin this sentence in your language. Make sure it is clear in your translation or in a footnote that Jacob (verse 1) and Israel (verse 3) refer to the same person, not two separate people. For a note about this, see Gen 35:10. Alternate translation: [Now Jacob, whose other name was Israel]
because he {was} a son of his old age
Quote: כִּֽי־בֶן־זְקֻנִ֥ים ה֖וּא ל֑וֹ (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, “Now Joseph was born to Israel when he was old, so he/Israel loved him more than all the rest of his sons.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [because Joseph was born to him when he was old]
So he made a multicolored tunic for him
Quote: וְעָ֥שָׂה ל֖וֹ כְּתֹ֥נֶת פַּסִּֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
The meaning of the Hebrew text is not certain here. Many translations (including the Greek Septuagint and Latin Vulgate) say that the tunic or robe was multicolored or “colorful.” This tunic was probably full-length to the ankles and had long sleeves that reached to the hands. Alternate translation: [So he made a beautiful tunic for him that had many colors] or [So he made a special colorful robe for him]
Genesis 37:4
so they hated him and were not able to speak to him peaceably
Quote: וַֽיִּשְׂנְא֖וּ אֹת֑וֹ וְלֹ֥א יָכְל֖וּ דַּבְּר֥וֹ לְשָׁלֹֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Make sure it is clear here in your translation that the brothers hated Joseph, not their father. Alternate translation: [they despised Joseph so much that they could not speak to him kindly] or [… they refused to speak to him in a kind way] or [… they always spoke unkindly to him]
Genesis 37:5
Then Joseph dreamed a dream
Quote: וַיַּחֲלֹ֤ם יוֹסֵף֙ חֲל֔וֹם (1)Alternate translation: [Then one night Joseph had a dream]
and told it to his brothers
Quote: וַיַּגֵּ֖ד לְאֶחָ֑יו (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [The next day he told his brothers what he dreamed]
and they continued to hate him even more
Quote: וַיּוֹסִ֥פוּ ע֖וֹד שְׂנֹ֥א אֹתֽוֹ (1)Alternate translation: [and they became even more hateful toward him] or [That made them despise him even more than before]
Genesis 37:6
And he said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר אֲלֵיהֶ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [He told them]
Please hear this dream that I dreamed
Quote: שִׁמְעוּ־נָ֕א הַחֲל֥וֹם הַזֶּ֖ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר חָלָֽמְתִּי (1)Alternate translation: [Please listen to me tell about this dream that I had:] or [I had a dream that I want to tell you about. Please listen to me tell it]
Genesis 37:7
And behold
Quote: וְ֠הִנֵּה (1)Alternate translation: [In my dream I saw]
we were binding sheaves in the middle of a field
Quote: אֲנַ֜חְנוּ מְאַלְּמִ֤ים אֲלֻמִּים֙ בְּת֣וֹךְ הַשָּׂדֶ֔ה (1)A sheaf of grain is a bunch of grain stalks that have been cut and tied together in a bundle, with the heads of grain at the top. Wheat and barley were the grains that were common in this region at that time, not corn or oats. Alternate translation: [that we all were out in the middle of a field cutting stalks of grain and tying the stalks into sheaves] or [us working together out in a field cutting and tying sheaves of wheat stalks]
and behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֛ה (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
my sheaf
Quote: אֲלֻמָּתִ֖י (1)Alternate translation: [my sheaf of grain] or [the sheaf that I had made]
got up and also stood upright
Quote: קָ֥מָה & וְגַם־נִצָּ֑בָה (1)Alternate translation: [stood up on its end]
and behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֛ה (1)Alternate translation: [Then behold]
your sheaves
Quote: אֲלֻמֹּ֣תֵיכֶ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [your sheaves of grain] or [the bundles that you had made]
gathered around
Quote: תְסֻבֶּ֨ינָה֙ (1)Alternate translation: [stood around my sheaf] or [stood in a circle around my bundle]
and bowed down to my sheaf
Quote: וַתִּֽשְׁתַּחֲוֶ֖יןָ לַאֲלֻמָּתִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
Alternate translation: [and bowed down to the ground to my sheaf to show submission] or [and bowed respectfully to my sheaf] or [and bowed down in front of it in respect]
Genesis 37:8
Then his brothers said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמְרוּ לוֹ֙ אֶחָ֔יו (1)Alternate translation: [His brothers retorted angrily]
Will … really
Quote: הֲמָלֹ֤ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The brothers use two rhetorical questions in this verse to express their disagreement with Joseph and to emphasize that they are not happy with him. Do what is best in your language.
you … reign over us
Quote: תִּמְלֹךְ֙ עָלֵ֔ינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
For languages that mark inclusive and exclusive pronouns, us excludes Joseph in this sentence. Alternate translation: [reign over us!]
And they continued to hate him even more
Quote: וַיּוֹסִ֤פוּ עוֹד֙ שְׂנֹ֣א אֹת֔וֹ (1)Consider again how you translated hate in the book of Genesis. See Gen 24:60; 26:27; 29:31, 33; 37:4-5, 8. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [So they despised him even more strongly than they did before]
because of his dreams and because of his words
Quote: עַל־חֲלֹמֹתָ֖יו וְעַל־דְּבָרָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages, it is more natural to switch the order of clauses in this sentence and say, “So because of what he/Joseph had told them about his dreams, his brothers hated him even more strongly/intensely than they did before.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [for his dreams and for what he told them about the dreams]
Genesis 37:9
Then he dreamed yet another dream, and he related it to his brothers
Quote: וַיַּחֲלֹ֥ם עוֹד֙ חֲל֣וֹם אַחֵ֔ר וַיְסַפֵּ֥ר אֹת֖וֹ לְאֶחָ֑יו (1)Alternate translation: [Sometime after that, Joseph told his brothers about another dream that he had]
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Alternate translation: [Here is what he said:]
and behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֧ה (1)Alternate translation: [and amazingly in this dream]
were bowing down
Quote: מִֽשְׁתַּחֲוִ֖ים (1)See how you translated “bowed down” in verse 7. Alternate translation: [were bowing down to the ground]
to me
Quote: לִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
Bowing down to someone was a way of showing respect and honor to that person. If that is not clear in your culture, you could make that information explicit in your translation or in a footnote. If it is understood, you can leave it implied (as the Hebrew text does). Alternate translation: [to me to show respect] or [in front of me to honor me]
Genesis 37:10
And he related it to his father and to his brothers
Quote: וַיְסַפֵּ֣ר אֶל־אָבִיו֮ וְאֶל־אֶחָיו֒ (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. Verse 10 could refer to: (1) a second time that Joseph told his dream; for example, “Then/Later Joseph told the same dream to both his father and his brothers, but his father …” or (2) the same time that he told this dream to his brothers in verse 9; for example, “When Joseph related/told the dream to his father and his brothers, his father …”
but his father rebuked him and said to him
Quote: וַיִּגְעַר־בּ֣וֹ אָבִ֔יו וַיֹּ֣אמֶר ל֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Your translation of this quote margin should not sound like two separate events; the verbs rebuked and said refer to the same event. Alternate translation: [but his father rebuked him by saying]
What {is} this dream that you dreamed
Quote: מָ֛ה הַחֲל֥וֹם הַזֶּ֖ה אֲשֶׁ֣ר חָלָ֑מְתָּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Jacob uses a rhetorical question here to show that he is not happy about Joseph’s dream. Decide the best way to translate this in your language. Alternate translation: [Your dream is ridiculous]
Will your mother and I and your brothers really
Quote: הֲב֣וֹא & אֲנִי֙ וְאִמְּךָ֣ וְאַחֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
See how you translated a similar rhetorical question in verse 8. Alternate translation: [Your mother and I and your brothers will never]
come to bow down to the ground
Quote: נָב֗וֹא & לְהִשְׁתַּחֲוֺ֥ת & אָֽרְצָה (1)See how you translated bow down in verse 7. Alternate translation: [come to you and bow down to the ground]
to you
Quote: לְךָ֖ (1)Alternate translation: [in front of you]
Genesis 37:11
And his brothers envied him
Quote: וַיְקַנְאוּ־ב֖וֹ אֶחָ֑יו (1)See how you translated envied in Gen 26:14; 30:1.
but his father kept the matter {in mind
Quote: וְאָבִ֖יו שָׁמַ֥ר אֶת־הַדָּבָֽר (1)Alternate translation: [but his father continued to wonder about what it all could mean] or [but his father kept thinking about the dreams and wondered what they meant]
Genesis 37:12
near Shechem
Quote: בִּשְׁכֶֽם (1)Be consistent here with how you spelled Shechem in Gen 35:4.
Genesis 37:13
And Israel said to Joseph
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יִשְׂרָאֵ֜ל אֶל־יוֹסֵ֗ף (1)Alternate translation: [So one day Israel said to Joseph]
Aren’t your brothers shepherding
Quote: הֲל֤וֹא אַחֶ֨יךָ֙ רֹעִ֣ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Israel uses a rhetorical question to remind Joseph of something he already knows and to introduce what he wants Joseph to do. Decide the best way to communicate this in your language. Alternate translation: [As you know, your brothers are pasturing our flocks]
near Shechem
Quote: בִּשְׁכֶ֔ם (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 12.
And he said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר ל֖וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [He responded] or [He answered him]
Behold me
Quote: הִנֵּֽנִי (1)Alternate translation: [Yes, sir]
Genesis 37:14
Then he said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר ל֗וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [Then Israel told Joseph]
Please go and see
Quote: לֶךְ־נָ֨א רְאֵ֜ה (1)Alternate translation: [Please go find out]
the well-being of your brothers and the well-being of the flock{s
Quote: אֶת־שְׁל֤וֹם אַחֶ֨יךָ֙ וְאֶת־שְׁל֣וֹם הַצֹּ֔אן (1)Alternate translation: [whether or not things are going well for your brothers and the flocks]
and bring me word
Quote: וַהֲשִׁבֵ֖נִי דָּבָ֑ר (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [Then come tell me how they are doing]
So he sent him
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלָחֵ֨הוּ֙ (1)Alternate translation: [So Israel sent Joseph on his way]
from the valley of Hebron
Quote: מֵעֵ֣מֶק חֶבְר֔וֹן (1)Be consistent in how you spell Hebron throughout the book of Genesis. See Gen 13:18; 23:2, 19; 35:27; 37:14.
and he went to Shechem
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֖א שְׁכֶֽמָה (1)The trip from the city of Hebron to the city of Shechem was about 100 kilometers (60 miles). Alternate translation: [and he went to the city of Shechem]
Genesis 37:15
And a man found him, and behold
Quote: וַיִּמְצָאֵ֣הוּ אִ֔ישׁ וְהִנֵּ֥ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
In this context found means the man happened to meet Joseph as Joseph was walking around looking for his brothers; the man was not intentionally looking for him. Also, for some languages it is clearer or more natural to change the order of the clauses in this sentence and say, “He started wandering around searching in the fields near there, where/and he met a man who asked …” or “As he was wandering around searching in the fields near there, he met a man who asked …” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [There he met a man who had seen him]
he was wandering around in the fields. So the man asked him, saying
Quote: תֹעֶ֖ה בַּשָּׂדֶ֑ה וַיִּשְׁאָלֵ֧הוּ הָאִ֛ישׁ לֵאמֹ֖ר (1)The word fields refers here to large, open places with no fences and few trees, where sheep and goats could easily graze. Alternate translation: [searching around in the nearby countryside and asked him]
What are you looking for
Quote: מַה־תְּבַקֵּֽשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Consider whether it is better to use a direct or an indirect quote here in your language. Alternate translation: [Who are you looking for?] or [what he was looking for]
Genesis 37:16
Please tell me
Quote: הַגִּֽידָה־נָּ֣א לִ֔י (1)Alternate translation: [Do you know]
where they are shepherding
Quote: אֵיפֹ֖ה הֵ֥ם רֹעִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to put this clause earlier in the verse and say, “I am looking for my brothers who were somewhere around here shepherding/pasturing/tending their flocks. Do you know where they are now?” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [where they are pasturing their flocks?]
Genesis 37:17
Then the man said
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר הָאִישׁ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [The man answered him] or [The man replied]
They set out from here
Quote: נָסְע֣וּ מִזֶּ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [I saw them, but then they left from here]
For I heard them say
Quote: כִּ֤י שָׁמַ֨עְתִּי֙ אֹֽמְרִ֔ים (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [In fact, I heard them say to each other] or [but I overheard them say to each other]
Let us go to Dothan
Quote: נֵלְכָ֖ה דֹּתָ֑יְנָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Consider whether it is better to use a direct or indirect quote here in your translation.
Then Joseph went after his brothers and found them at Dothan
Quote: וַיֵּ֤לֶךְ יוֹסֵף֙ אַחַ֣ר אֶחָ֔יו וַיִּמְצָאֵ֖ם בְּדֹתָֽן (1)Alternate translation: [So Joseph went to the town of Dothan and found his brothers near there]
Genesis 37:18
But they saw him from a distance
Quote: וַיִּרְא֥וּ אֹת֖וֹ מֵרָחֹ֑ק (1)Alternate translation: [While he was still some distance away from them, they saw him]
and before he came near to them
Quote: וּבְטֶ֨רֶם֙ יִקְרַ֣ב אֲלֵיהֶ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [and before he got close to where they were]
then they conspired against him to kill him
Quote: וַיִּֽתְנַכְּל֥וּ אֹת֖וֹ לַהֲמִיתֽוֹ (1)Alternate translation: [they plotted to kill him]
Genesis 37:19
Behold, that master of dreams is coming
Quote: הִנֵּ֗ה בַּ֛עַל הַחֲלֹמ֥וֹת הַלָּזֶ֖ה בָּֽא (1)Make sure it is clear in your translation that Joseph’s brothers are being sarcastic and disrespectful here as they make fun of Joseph. Alternate translation: [Look here comes that master dreamer!]
Genesis 37:20
into one of the cisterns
Quote: בְּאַחַ֣ד הַבֹּר֔וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
A cistern was a large hole or pit that had been dug in the ground to catch rain water and store it there. It was wide at the bottom and had a small opening at the top. The sides of the hole were covered with plaster so that it would hold water. Alternate translation: [into one of the empty pits here]
Then we will say an evil animal
Quote: וְאָמַ֕רְנוּ חַיָּ֥ה רָעָ֖ה (1)Alternate translation: [Then we will tell people that a ferocious wild animal]
devoured him
Quote: אֲכָלָ֑תְהוּ (1)Alternate translation: [has eaten him] or [ate him down]
and we will see
Quote: וְנִרְאֶ֕ה (1)Alternate translation: [and everyone will see]
what his dreams become
Quote: מַה־יִּהְי֖וּ חֲלֹמֹתָֽיו (1)Joseph’s brothers are speaking here in a disdainful way, continuing to mock him. Alternate translation: [what will become of his dreams!] or [what happens to his great dreams!] or [if his great dreams come true!]
Genesis 37:21
But Reuben heard
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמַ֣ע רְאוּבֵ֔ן (1)Alternate translation: [When Reuben heard what they were planning]
and he rescued him from their hand{s
Quote: וַיַּצִּלֵ֖הוּ מִיָּדָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The phrase their hands refers to Joseph’s brothers and their power to harm him. Consider whether you have a similar figure of speech in your language. Alternate translation: [he tried to save Joseph from them]
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [and said to them]
Let us not strike his life
Quote: לֹ֥א נַכֶּ֖נּוּ נָֽפֶשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Consider again how you translated the idiom strike in Gen 4:15; 34:30; 37:21. Alternate translation: [We must not take his life] or [We must not kill him]
Genesis 37:22
And Reuben said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר אֲלֵהֶ֣ם ׀ רְאוּבֵן֮ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Some translations do not include this phrase, possibly because Reuben is still speaking to the same people. However, he may have paused between verses 21 and 22 to see the effect of what he said in verse 21. Also, the repeated quote margin helps emphasize what he says in verse 22. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Then he added]
Do not shed blood
Quote: אַל־תִּשְׁפְּכוּ־דָם֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom shed blood in Gen 9:6. Alternate translation: [Do not kill him]
Throw him into this cistern
Quote: הַשְׁלִ֣יכוּ אֹת֗וֹ אֶל־הַבּ֤וֹר הַזֶּה֙ (1)See how you translated cistern in verse 20. Alternate translation: [Instead put him into this dry well]
which {is} in the wilderness
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר בַּמִּדְבָּ֔ר (1)Consider again how you translated wilderness or “desert” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 14:6 (and note); 16:7; 21:14, 20-21; 36:24; 37:22. Also see when it occurs as implied information in Gen 12:9-10; 13:1, 3; 20:1; 24:62. Alternate translation: [here in the wilderness]
but do not lay a hand on him
Quote: וְיָ֖ד אַל־תִּשְׁלְחוּ־ב֑וֹ (1)The phrase lay a hand on is an idiom that emphasizes that they are not to harm him at all, not even in the smallest way. Alternate translation: [but you must not harm him in any way]
in order to rescue him from their hand{s
Quote: לְמַ֗עַן הַצִּ֤יל אֹתוֹ֙ מִיָּדָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
See how you translated “rescued him from their hands” in verse 21. Alternate translation: [Reuben was planning to save him from them] or [He said that in order to save him from being killed by them]
to return him to his father
Quote: לַהֲשִׁיב֖וֹ אֶל־אָבִֽיו (1)Make sure your translation of his father does not sound like Joseph had a different father than his brothers had. Alternate translation: [so that he could return him safely to his father] or [and take him back home to his father]
Genesis 37:23
Then it happened when Joseph came to his brothers
Quote: וַֽיְהִ֕י כַּֽאֲשֶׁר־בָּ֥א יוֹסֵ֖ף אֶל־אֶחָ֑יו (1)As usual, the phrase Then it happened introduces and emphasizes an important set of events. Many translations leave it implied. Do what is natural in your language.
then they stripped Joseph of his tunic, the multicolored tunic
Quote: וַיַּפְשִׁ֤יטוּ אֶת־יוֹסֵף֙ אֶת־כֻּתָּנְתּ֔וֹ אֶת־כְּתֹ֥נֶת הַפַּסִּ֖ים (1)See how you translated multicolored tunic in verse 3. Alternate translation: [they grabbed hold of him and tore off his colorful robe]
that {was} on him
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר עָלָֽיו (1)Alternate translation: [he had on]
Genesis 37:24
Then they took him
Quote: וַיִּ֨קָּחֻ֔הוּ (1)If the phrase “grabbed/took hold of him” is made explicit in your translation in verse 23, it can be left implied here in verse 24.
and threw him into the cistern
Quote: וַיַּשְׁלִ֥כוּ אֹת֖וֹ הַבֹּ֑רָה (1)See how you translated “throw him” and cistern in verse 20. Alternate translation: [and put him into the well]
And the cistern {was} empty; there was not water in it
Quote: וְהַבּ֣וֹר רֵ֔ק אֵ֥ין בּ֖וֹ מָֽיִם (1)Alternate translation: [Now the well was empty; it had no water in it] or [The well was empty and completely dry inside]
Genesis 37:25
Then they sat down to eat bread
Quote: וַיֵּשְׁבוּ֮ לֶֽאֱכָל־לֶחֶם֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
It is clear from verse 29 that Reuben was not there when his brothers made the plan to sell Joseph to the traders.
and they lifted their eyes and looked
Quote: וַיִּשְׂא֤וּ עֵֽינֵיהֶם֙ וַיִּרְא֔וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom “lifted … eyes” in Gen 22:13. Alternate translation: [and while they were eating, they looked around]
and behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּה֙ (1)Alternate translation: [and saw that] or [and they saw that]
a caravan of
Quote: אֹרְחַ֣ת (1)A caravan is a large group of people who are traveling together. Alternate translation: [a large company of]
Ishmaelites
Quote: יִשְׁמְעֵאלִ֔ים (1)See how you translated the names of other people groups in Gen 15:19-21. Alternate translation: [Ishmaelite merchants] or [traders from the Ishmael people group] or [traders who were descendants of Ishmael]
was coming from Gilead
Quote: בָּאָ֖ה מִגִּלְעָ֑ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it may be clearer to change the order of some of the implied information in this sentence and say, “… and saw/noticed that headed their way/direction was a large group of Ishmaelite traders/merchants that was coming/traveling from the region of Gilead.” Do what is best in your language. Also, be consistent here with how you spelled Gilead in Gen 31:21, 23, 25. Alternate translation: [was coming toward them from the region of Gilead] or [was traveling from the region of Gilead and was headed their way]
And their camels were carrying
Quote: וּגְמַלֵּיהֶ֣ם נֹֽשְׂאִ֗ים (1)Consider again how you translated “camel” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:16 (and note); 24:10-11, 14, 19-20, 22, 25, 30-32, 35, 44, 46, 61, 63-64; 30:43; 31:17, 18, 34; 32:7, 15; 37:25.
spices and balm and myrrh
Quote: נְכֹאת֙ וּצְרִ֣י וָלֹ֔ט (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
Gilead was a mountainous region east of the Jordan River that was famous as a source of balm (or balsam), which was a rare tree resin that was used for perfume and for medicine. Myrrh was another type of tree resin that was used as incense and as medicine. You could put some of that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: [expensive spices, healing resin and incense]
that} they were going to take down to Egypt
Quote: הוֹלְכִ֖ים לְהוֹרִ֥יד מִצְרָֽיְמָה (1)Alternate translation: [that they were transporting down to the country of Egypt to sell there] or [that they were taking to sell in the country of Egypt]
Genesis 37:26
Then Judah said to his brothers
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר יְהוּדָ֖ה אֶל־אֶחָ֑יו (1)Alternate translation: [Then Judah asked his brothers]
What gain {is there
Quote: מַה־בֶּ֗צַע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Judah uses a rhetorical question here to emphasize his point. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [What will we gain]
if we kill our brother and cover up his blood
Quote: כִּ֤י נַהֲרֹג֙ אֶת־אָחִ֔ינוּ וְכִסִּ֖ינוּ אֶת־דָּמֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The phrase cover up is an idiom that means to prevent people from knowing about something evil that was done. Also, the phrase his blood is an idiom that refers to Joseph’s death. Alternate translation: [if we kill our brother and try to keep people from finding out about it]
Genesis 37:27
Come and let us sell him
Quote: לְכ֞וּ וְנִמְכְּרֶ֣נּוּ (1)See how you translated “come and” in verse 20. Alternate translation: [Instead, we should sell him]
to the Ishmaelites
Quote: לַיִּשְׁמְעֵאלִ֗ים (1)See how you translated Ishmaelites in verse 25. Alternate translation: [to those Ishmaelites over there] or [to those Ishmaelite merchants over there]
so that our hand{s} will not be on him
Quote: וְיָדֵ֨נוּ֙ אַל־תְּהִי־ב֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Translate this idiom in a way that is natural and clear in your language. Alternate translation: [so that we do not harm him]
For he {is} our brother, our flesh
Quote: כִּֽי־אָחִ֥ינוּ בְשָׂרֵ֖נוּ ה֑וּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The phrase our flesh refers to the fact that they are closely related biologically. See how you translated a similar idiom (“my bone and my flesh”) in Gen 29:14. Alternate translation: [After all, as our brother, he is member of our family]
And his brothers listened
Quote: וַֽיִּשְׁמְע֖וּ אֶחָֽיו (1)See how you translated listened in Gen 34:24.
Genesis 37:28
Then the Midianite men, traders, passed by
Quote: וַיַּֽעַבְרוּ֩ אֲנָשִׁ֨ים מִדְיָנִ֜ים סֹֽחֲרִ֗ים (1)The Ishmaelites (verses 25, 27-28; 39:1) and Midianites (verses 28 and 36) were the descendants of Abraham’s sons Ishmael and Midian (16:15; 25:1-2). However, sometimes (as here) the names of those people groups are used interchangeably for the same people (also see Judges 8:22, 24, 26). Perhaps that was because the two people groups had intermarried. Or there may have been merchants from the two people groups in this caravan who bought and sold Joseph together. You could put some of that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: [So as the Midianite (that is, Ishmaelite) merchants came by them] or [So when the Ishmaelite traders who were also called Midianites were going by them]
and they drew Joseph up and lifted him out of the cistern
Quote: וַֽיִּמְשְׁכוּ֙ וַיַּֽעֲל֤וּ אֶת־יוֹסֵף֙ מִן־הַבּ֔וֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Not all of Joseph’s brothers were there, because we know from the next verse that at least Reuben was somewhere else when they sold Joseph.
and sold Joseph to the Ishmaelites for twenty {shekels of} silver
Quote: וַיִּמְכְּר֧וּ אֶת־יוֹסֵ֛ף לַיִּשְׁמְעֵאלִ֖ים בְּעֶשְׂרִ֣ים כָּ֑סֶף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney
See the note about shekels at Gen 20:16. Twenty shekels of silver was equal to about one-fourth of a kilo (half a pound) and was the average price for a slave. You could put some of that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: [and sold him to the Ishmaelite traders for twenty pieces of silver]
Genesis 37:29
Then Reuben returned to the cistern
Quote: וַיָּ֤שָׁב רְאוּבֵן֙ אֶל־הַבּ֔וֹר (1)Consider again how you translated cistern in verses 20, 22, 24, 28-29. Alternate translation: [Later Reuben who had been gone for a while returned to the well] or [Then Reuben went back to the well to get Joseph]
but behold, Joseph was not in the cistern
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֥ה אֵין־יוֹסֵ֖ף בַּבּ֑וֹר (1)Alternate translation: [but to his surprise Joseph was gone!]
so he tore his clothes
Quote: וַיִּקְרַ֖ע אֶת־בְּגָדָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
Alternate translation: [So he tore his clothes to show grief] or [Then he was so grieved that he tore his clothes]
Genesis 37:30
Then he returned to his brothers
Quote: וַיָּ֥שָׁב אֶל־אֶחָ֖יו (1)Alternate translation: [Then he went back to where his brothers were]
and said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [and said to them]
The boy
Quote: הַיֶּ֣לֶד (1)Joseph was seventeen years old (verse 2), so this phrase should be translated in a way that is appropriate for his older brother to refer to him here. See how you translated a different word that has a similar meaning in Gen 21:12. Alternate translation: [The lad] or [Our younger brother]
is not {there
Quote: אֵינֶ֔נּוּ (1)Alternate translation: [is missing!]
And I, where am I going
Quote: וַאֲנִ֖י אָ֥נָה אֲנִי־בָֽא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Reuben uses a rhetorical question here to express how distressed he is and to emphasize that he does not know what to do. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: [Now what can I do?]
Genesis 37:31
Then they took
Quote: וַיִּקְח֖וּ (1)Alternate translation: [So they]
Then they took Joseph’s tunic
Quote: וַיִּקְח֖וּ אֶת־כְּתֹ֣נֶת יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)Alternate translation: [took his robe] or [picked up his tunic]
and slaughtered a kid of the goats
Quote: וַֽיִּשְׁחֲטוּ֙ שְׂעִ֣יר עִזִּ֔ים (1)Alternate translation: [killed a male goat]
and dipped the tunic in the blood
Quote: וַיִּטְבְּל֥וּ אֶת־הַכֻּתֹּ֖נֶת בַּדָּֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to switch the order of clauses in this verse and say, “Then/So Joseph’s brothers killed a young goat, took Joseph’s/his tunic/robe, and dipped it in the goat’s blood.” or “Then/So Joseph’s brothers killed a young goat and dipped Joseph’s/his tunic/robe in the goat’s blood.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [and dipped the robe in its blood]
Genesis 37:32
Then they sent the multicolored tunic and had it brought to their father and said
Quote: וַֽיְשַׁלְּח֞וּ אֶת־כְּתֹ֣נֶת הַפַּסִּ֗ים וַיָּבִ֨יאוּ֙ אֶל־אֲבִיהֶ֔ם וַיֹּאמְר֖וּ (1)Consider again how you translated “multicolored/colorful tunic/robe” in verses 3, 23, 32. Alternate translation: [Then they had someone bring the colorful tunic back to their father and say to him for them]
We found this. Please examine
Quote: זֹ֣את מָצָ֑אנוּ הַכֶּר־נָ֗א (1)See how you translated examine in Gen 31:32. Alternate translation: [We found this tunic Please look at it to see]
Genesis 37:33
And he examined it and said
Quote: וַיַּכִּירָ֤הּ וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Alternate translation: [Jacob examined the robe and exclaimed]
It is} my son’s tunic
Quote: כְּתֹ֣נֶת בְּנִ֔י (1)Alternate translation: [This robe belongs to my son Joseph!]
An evil animal has devoured him! Surely Joseph was torn to pieces
Quote: חַיָּ֥ה רָעָ֖ה אֲכָלָ֑תְהוּ טָרֹ֥ף טֹרַ֖ף יוֹסֵֽף (1)See how you translated “an evil animal devoured him” in verse 20. Alternate translation: [Surely a fierce wild animal has torn Joseph to pieces and eaten him up!]
Genesis 37:34
Then Jacob tore his clothes
Quote: וַיִּקְרַ֤ע יַעֲקֹב֙ שִׂמְלֹתָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
See how you translated tore his clothes in verse 29. Alternate translation: [Then Jacob tore his clothes in sorrow] or [Jacob was so grieved that he tore his clothes]
and put sackcloth on his loins
Quote: וַיָּ֥שֶׂם שַׂ֖ק בְּמָתְנָ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
It was a Hebrew custom to wear sackcloth, which was a rough/coarse garment made/woven from black goats’ hair, to show that the person was mourning for someone’s death. If this custom is not familiar in your culture, you could put that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: [put on sackcloth]
and he mourned for his son many days
Quote: וַיִּתְאַבֵּ֥ל עַל־בְּנ֖וֹ יָמִ֥ים רַבִּֽים (1)See how you translated “mourn” in Gen 27:41. Alternate translation: [and for many days he grieved that his son had died] or [and for a very long time he grieved because his son was gone]
Genesis 37:35
but he refused to be comforted
Quote: וַיְמָאֵן֙ לְהִתְנַחֵ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [but he did not want to be consoled] or [but he did not let them console him]
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
For I will go down to my son in Sheol mourning
Quote: כִּֽי־אֵרֵ֧ד אֶל־בְּנִ֛י אָבֵ֖ל שְׁאֹ֑לָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
Sheol is the Hebrew name for the world of the dead, that is, the place where the spirits of dead people lived. You could put that information in a footnote. Your translation of Sheol should not refer to hell or a place of punishment. Some translations have “the grave” here, but that leaves out the idea of an afterlife that this sentence implies. Alternate translation: [No, I will continue to mourn until I die and join my son down in Sheol]
Genesis 37:36
And the Midianites sold him in Egypt
Quote: וְהַ֨מְּדָנִ֔ים מָכְר֥וּ אֹת֖וֹ אֶל־מִצְרָ֑יִם (1)The event in verse 36 occurred during the time that the events in verses 29-35 happened. Alternate translation: [Meanwhile, when the Midianite traders got to the country of Egypt, they sold Joseph]
to Potiphar, an official of Pharaoh
Quote: לְפֽוֹטִיפַר֙ סְרִ֣יס פַּרְעֹ֔ה (1)See how you translated Pharaoh in Gen 12:15-20. Alternate translation: [to Potiphar, who was an official under Pharaoh the king over Egypt;]
the chief of the guards
Quote: שַׂ֖ר הַטַּבָּחִֽים (1)Alternate translation: [he was the captain over the royal guards] or [he was the leader of the soldiers who guarded the king]
Genesis 38
Genesis 38:1
And it happened at that time
Quote: וַֽיְהִי֙ בָּעֵ֣ת הַהִ֔וא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
The phrase And it happened introduces a new episode here. Some translations leave it implied. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Meanwhile] or [At this time]
that Judah went down from his brothers
Quote: וַיֵּ֥רֶד יְהוּדָ֖ה מֵאֵ֣ת אֶחָ֑יו (1)Alternate translation: [Judah left his brothers and traveled down]
and settled near an Adullamite man
Quote: וַיֵּ֛ט עַד־אִ֥ישׁ עֲדֻלָּמִ֖י (1)The word Adullamite refers to the fact that Hirah was from the town of Adullam; it is not the name of a people group. The town of Adullam was about 19 kilometers (12 miles) northwest of the city of Hebron (37:14), and was lower in elevation, which is why the text says that Judah went down to get there. Alternate translation: [and lived in the town of Adullam near the home of a man from there] or [to the town of Adullam and lived near the home of a man from there]
Genesis 38:2
And there Judah saw the daughter of a Canaanite man, and his name {was} Shua
Quote: וַיַּרְא־שָׁ֧ם יְהוּדָ֛ה בַּת־אִ֥ישׁ כְּנַעֲנִ֖י וּשְׁמ֣וֹ שׁ֑וּעַ (1)Alternate translation: [While he was living there, Judah met the daughter of a Canaanite man named Shua] or [While he was living there, Judah met a Canaanite woman whose father was Shua]
and he took her
Quote: וַיִּקָּחֶ֖הָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated a similar idiom (“took a wife”) in Gen 25:1. Alternate translation: [and he took her as his wife]
Then he went to her
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֥א אֵלֶֽיהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
See how you translated the idiom went to in Gen 6:4. Alternate translation: [Then he lay with her] or [Then he had sexual relations with her]
Genesis 38:3
and bore a son
Quote: וַתֵּ֣לֶד בֵּ֑ן (1)Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language. Alternate translation: [and gave birth to a son]
and he called his name Er
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א אֶת־שְׁמ֖וֹ עֵֽר (1)Throughout Genesis, sometimes the father, sometimes the mother, and sometimes both are said to give their child his name. Alternate translation: [whom he named Er]
Genesis 38:4
Then she conceived again
Quote: וַתַּ֥הַר ע֖וֹד (1)See how you translated verse 3, which is similar to verse 4.
Genesis 38:5
Then she continued further
Quote: וַתֹּ֤סֶף עוֹד֙ (1)Alternate translation: [Then she conceived again]
And he was in Kezib when she bore him
Quote: וְהָיָ֥ה בִכְזִ֖יב בְּלִדְתָּ֥הּ אֹתֽוֹ (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “He/Judah was in/at the town of Kezib when she gave birth to Shelah.” or “When she gave birth to Shelah, Judah was in the town of Kezib.” or (2) “It was in the town of Kezib that she gave birth to him/Shelah.” or “She was in Kezib when she gave birth to him/Shelah.”
Genesis 38:6
Then Judah took a wife for Er his firstborn, and her name {was} Tamar
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֧ח יְהוּדָ֛ה אִשָּׁ֖ה לְעֵ֣ר בְּכוֹר֑וֹ וּשְׁמָ֖הּ תָּמָֽר (1)See how you translated the phrase took a wife for in Gen 21:21. Alternate translation: [Years later, Judah chose a wife named Tamar for his firstborn son Er]
Genesis 38:7
But Er, the firstborn of Judah, was
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י עֵ֚ר בְּכ֣וֹר יְהוּדָ֔ה (1)Some languages leave the firstborn of Judah implied here since Er was already called the firstborn in verse 6. The Hebrew text repeats that information here to emphasize Er’s relationship to Judah in the following events. Do what is best in your language.
But … was evil in the eyes of Yahweh
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י & רַ֖ע בְּעֵינֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The Hebrew text does not specify what Er had done wrong, so neither should your translation. See how you translated the idiom in the eyes of Yahweh in Gen 6:8. Alternate translation: [did something that Yahweh judged to be evil]
so Yahweh killed him
Quote: וַיְמִתֵ֖הוּ יְהוָֽה (1)Alternate translation: [so Yahweh took his life]
Genesis 38:8
Go to the wife of your brother
Quote: בֹּ֛א אֶל־אֵ֥שֶׁת אָחִ֖יךָ (1)The Israelites practiced the custom of Levirate marriage, which meant that if a man died without any children, it was his oldest brother’s duty to marry his widow so that together they could have a son who would carry on the deceased man’s family line and inherit his estate (See: Deuteronomy 25:5-6). You could put some of that information in a footnote.
and perform your duty to her
Quote: וְיַבֵּ֣ם אֹתָ֑הּ (1)Alternate translation: [so that you fulfill your duty to her as her brother-in-law]
and produce offspring
Quote: וְהָקֵ֥ם זֶ֖רַע (1)Alternate translation: [and produce children with her]
for your brother
Quote: לְאָחִֽיךָ (1)Alternate translation: [to carry on the name of your brother Er]
Genesis 38:9
However, Onan knew that the offspring would not be his
Quote: וַיֵּ֣דַע אוֹנָ֔ן כִּ֛י לֹּ֥א ל֖וֹ יִהְיֶ֣ה הַזָּ֑רַע (1)Alternate translation: [But Onan knew that the children they would have together would not belong to him]
so it happened when
Quote: וְהָיָ֞ה אִם (1)Alternate translation: [So every time]
he went to
Quote: בָּ֨א אֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
Alternate translation: [he lay with] or [he had physical relations with]
then he spilled {it} on the ground
Quote: וְשִׁחֵ֣ת אַ֔רְצָה (1)Translate this clause in a way that is polite and will not shame or embarrass people when this verse is read aloud in public. Make sure it is clear that Onan did something to keep Tamar from getting pregnant. Alternate translation: [he let his semen to go on the ground]
so that he would not give offspring to his brother
Quote: לְבִלְתִּ֥י נְתָן־זֶ֖רַע לְאָחִֽיו (1)Alternate translation: [so that he would not have offspring for his brother] or [to keep her from getting pregnant and having any offspring for his brother]
Genesis 38:10
And what he did was evil in the eyes of Yahweh
Quote: וַיֵּ֛רַע בְּעֵינֵ֥י יְהוָ֖ה אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָשָׂ֑ה (1)See how you translated evil in the eyes of Yahweh in verse 7. Alternate translation: [Yahweh judged what he did to be evil]
so he killed him also
Quote: וַיָּ֖מֶת גַּם־אֹתֽוֹ (1)Alternate translation: [so he took his life too] or [so Yahweh caused him to die too]
Genesis 38:12
Then the days were many
Quote: וַיִּרְבּוּ֙ הַיָּמִ֔ים (1)Alternate translation: [Many years later] or [Years went by and then]
and Shua’s daughter, the wife of Judah, died
Quote: וַתָּ֖מָת בַּת־שׁ֣וּעַ אֵֽשֶׁת־יְהוּדָ֑ה (1)Notice that Shua was the father of Judah’s wife. Be consistent here with how you spelled his name in verse 2.
Then Judah was comforted
Quote: וַיִּנָּ֣חֶם יְהוּדָ֗ה (1)See how you translated comforted in Gen 37:35. Alternate translation: [After Judah finished grieving for her, one day] or [After Judah had completed the customary time of mourning for her]
and he went up to Timnah
Quote: וַיַּ֜עַל & תִּמְנָֽתָה (1)Make sure your translation of this clause does not sound like Judah had already arrived at Timnah, because he does not actually reach there until verse 19. His trip from the town of Adullam (verse 1) to the town of Timnah was about 13 kilometers (8 miles).
to {the men} who were shearing his sheep
Quote: עַל־גֹּֽזֲזֵ֤י צֹאנוֹ֙ (1)See how you translated “shear his sheep” in Gen 31:19 and see the note about that there. Alternate translation: [where his men were shearing his sheep for him]
he and his friend Hirah the Adullamite
Quote: ה֗וּא וְחִירָ֛ה רֵעֵ֥הוּ הָעֲדֻלָּמִ֖י (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 verse and say, “… and he and his friend Hirah the Adullamite went up to the town of Timnah where men were shearing Judah’s sheep for him.” Do what is best in your language. Also, be consistent here with how you spelled Hirah and how you translated Adullamite in verse 1. Alternate translation: [His friend Hirah the Adullamite went with him]
Genesis 38:13
And it was told to Tamar, saying
Quote: וַיֻּגַּ֥ד לְתָמָ֖ר לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
Alternate translation: [Then someone told Tamar]
is going up to Timnah to shear his sheep
Quote: עֹלֶ֥ה תִמְנָ֖תָה לָגֹ֥ז צֹאנֽוֹ (1)See how you translated “shearing his sheep” in verse 12. Alternate translation: [is on his way to shear his sheep in the town of Timnah]
Genesis 38:14
So she took off her widow’s clothes from her
Quote: וַתָּסַר֩ בִּגְדֵ֨י אַלְמְנוּתָ֜הּ מֵֽעָלֶ֗יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Make sure it is clear in your translation that Tamar did not just take off her widow’s clothes, but that she also put different clothes on. Alternate translation: [So she changed into different clothes from the kind of clothes that widows wear]
and covered herself with a veil
Quote: וַתְּכַ֤ס בַּצָּעִיף֙ (1)A veil was a large piece of thin cloth that was used to cover the face and/or the body. See how you translated veil in Gen 24:65. Alternate translation: [and covered herself with a large veil] or [and covered her face with a thin veil]
and wrapped herself
Quote: וַתִּתְעַלָּ֔ף (1)Alternate translation: [and disguised herself as a prostitute] or [to disguise herself]
Then she sat at the entrance of Enaim, which {is} on the road to Timnah
Quote: וַתֵּ֨שֶׁב֙ בְּפֶ֣תַח עֵינַ֔יִם אֲשֶׁ֖ר עַל־דֶּ֣רֶךְ תִּמְנָ֑תָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Some languages need to specify that Tamar traveled to Enaim before she sat down there. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Then she sat by the gateway to the town of Enaim, which was on the way to the town of Timnah] or [Then she went toward the town of Timnah and sat down at the entrance of the town of Enaim, which was along the way]
because she saw that Shelah had grown up
Quote: כִּ֤י רָאֲתָה֙ כִּֽי־גָדַ֣ל שֵׁלָ֔ה (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
but she had not been given to him as a wife
Quote: וְהִ֕וא לֹֽא־נִתְּנָ֥ה ל֖וֹ לְאִשָּֽׁה (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, “Tamar had seen/noticed that Shelah was now grown up, but Judah had not given her to him to marry as he was supposed/required to do. So she changed from her widow’s clothes …” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [but Judah had not given her to Shelah to marry as he was required to do]
Genesis 38:15
and he thought she was a prostitute because she had covered her face
Quote: וַֽיַּחְשְׁבֶ֖הָ לְזוֹנָ֑ה כִּ֥י כִסְּתָ֖ה פָּנֶֽיהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See how you translated prostitute in Gen 34:31 and covered her face in verse 14. Alternate translation: [but since she had covered her face with a veil he could not see who she was and he thought that she was a prostitute]
Genesis 38:16
So he turned to her beside the road
Quote: וַיֵּ֨ט אֵלֶ֜יהָ אֶל־הַדֶּ֗רֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Alternate translation: [So he went over to where she was sitting by the road]
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Alternate translation: [and propositioned her by saying] or [and requested]
Please come, let me come to you
Quote: הָֽבָה־נָּא֙ אָב֣וֹא אֵלַ֔יִךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
Alternate translation: [Let me lie with you] or [Let me have relations with you]
because he did not know that she {was} his daughter-in-law
Quote: כִּ֚י לֹ֣א יָדַ֔ע כִּ֥י כַלָּת֖וֹ הִ֑וא (1)For some languages it is more natural to put this clause first in this sentence and say, “He did not realize that she was his daughter-in-law Tamar, so he went over to her beside the road and said …” Alternate translation: [He said that because he did not realize that she was his daughter-in-law Tamar]
What will you give to me
Quote: מַה־תִּתֶּן־לִּ֔י (1)Alternate translation: [What will you give me in exchange]
if you will come
Quote: כִּ֥י תָב֖וֹא (1)Alternate translation: [if I allow you to]
you will come to me
Quote: תָב֖וֹא אֵלָֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom come to earlier in this verse. Alternate translation: [lie with me?] or [have relations with me?] or [do that?]
Genesis 38:17
I will send a kid goat from the flock
Quote: אָנֹכִ֛י אֲשַׁלַּ֥ח גְּדִֽי־עִזִּ֖ים מִן־הַצֹּ֑אן (1)See how you translated kid goat in Gen 27:9, 16.
If you will give a pledge
Quote: אִם־תִּתֵּ֥ן עֵרָב֖וֹן (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “Ok, if you will give me a pledge/deposit …” or “I will agree, if you give me something valuable of yours to keep …” or (2) “Will you give me a pledge/deposit …?”
until you send {it
Quote: עַ֥ד שָׁלְחֶֽךָ (1)Alternate translation: [until you send the goat to me]
Genesis 38:18
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [So Judah asked her]
What {is} the pledge that I should give to you
Quote: מָ֣ה הָֽעֵרָבוֹן֮ אֲשֶׁ֣ר אֶתֶּן־לָּךְ֒ (1)Alternate translation: [What should I give to you as a pledge]
Your signet and your cord
Quote: חֹתָֽמְךָ֙ וּפְתִילֶ֔ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
A signet or “identification seal” was a ring or small cylinder-shaped object that had the owner’s name engraved on it and was worn around his neck on a cord. It was used to prove his identity and to sign documents that were written on clay tablets, by rolling the cylinder over the soft clay. If people in your culture are not familiar with these things, you could put some of this information in a footnote. Alternate translation: [Give me your signature thing with its string that you wear around your neck]
and your staff
Quote: וּמַטְּךָ֖ (1)Alternate translation: [and your cane]
and went to her
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֥א אֵלֶ֖יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
Consider again how you translated the idiom went to in the book of Genesis. See Gen 6:4 (See: note); 16:2, 4; 19:31; 30:3-4; 38:2, 8-9, 16, 18. It may be necessary to translate this phrase in different ways, depending on the context; for example, the relationship in Gen 38:16, 18 was outside of marriage. Alternate translation: [Then he lay with her]
and she conceived by him
Quote: וַתַּ֥הַר לֽוֹ (1)Consider again how you translated “conceive” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 4:1, 17; 16:4-5; 19:36; 21:2; 25:21; 29:32-35; 30:5, 7, 17, 19, 23; 38:3-4, 18. Alternate translation: [and she became pregnant by him] or [and he caused her to become pregnant]
Genesis 38:19
Then she got up and left
Quote: וַתָּ֣קָם וַתֵּ֔לֶךְ (1)Alternate translation: [After that, Tamar left Judah and went home] or [After Tamar left Judah, she went home]
and she took off her veil from her
Quote: וַתָּ֥סַר צְעִיפָ֖הּ מֵעָלֶ֑יהָ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated veil in verse 14. Alternate translation: [took off her shawl] or [Then she took her veil off]
and put on her widow’s clothes
Quote: וַתִּלְבַּ֖שׁ בִּגְדֵ֥י אַלְמְנוּתָֽהּ (1)See how you translated widow’s clothes in verse 14. Alternate translation: [and put back on her clothes that showed she was a widow] or [and put back on the kind of clothes that widows wear]
Genesis 38:20
Then Judah sent the kid goat by the hand of his friend the Adullamite
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלַ֨ח יְהוּדָ֜ה אֶת־גְּדִ֣י הָֽעִזִּ֗ים בְּיַד֙ רֵעֵ֣הוּ הָֽעֲדֻלָּמִ֔י (1)See how you translated “his friend … the Adullamite” in verse 12 and kid goat in verse 17. Alternate translation: [After that, Judah sent his friend Hirah the Adullamite with a young goat]
to get back the pledge from the hand of the woman
Quote: לָקַ֥חַת הָעֵרָב֖וֹן מִיַּ֣ד הָאִשָּׁ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [to retrieve his things from the woman whom he had given them to] or [to exchange it for the things he had left with the woman] or [to get back from the woman the things he had left with her]
but he did not find her
Quote: וְלֹ֖א מְצָאָֽהּ (1)Alternate translation: [but Hirah could not find her]
Genesis 38:21
So he asked the men of her place, saying
Quote: וַיִּשְׁאַ֞ל אֶת־אַנְשֵׁ֤י מְקֹמָהּ֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)Alternate translation: [So Hirah asked some men who lived near the place where she had been]
Where {is} the temple prostitute who {was} at Enaim beside the road
Quote: אַיֵּ֧ה הַקְּדֵשָׁ֛ה הִ֥וא בָעֵינַ֖יִם עַל־הַדָּ֑רֶךְ (1)Pagan religions had fertility rites at their temples or shrines that included professional prostitutes. Make sure your translation of temple prostitute does not refer to any temple built by the Israelites. Also be consistent here with how you translated Enaim in verse 14. Alternate translation: [Where is the shrine prostitute who was sitting beside the road near the town of Enaim?]
There has not been a temple prostitute
Quote: לֹא־הָיְתָ֥ה & קְדֵשָֽׁה (1)Alternate translation: [There has never been a shrine prostitute] or [No shrine prostitute has ever been]
in this place
Quote: בָזֶ֖ה (1)Alternate translation: [in this town]
Genesis 38:22
So he returned to Judah
Quote: וַיָּ֨שָׁב֙ אֶל־יְהוּדָ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [So Hirah came back to Judah]
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [and said to him] or [and informed him]
I did not find her
Quote: לֹ֣א מְצָאתִ֑יהָ (1)Alternate translation: [I was not able to find the woman]
And also
Quote: וְגַ֨ם (1)Alternate translation: [And besides that]
the men of the place
Quote: אַנְשֵׁ֤י הַמָּקוֹם֙ (1)Alternate translation: [the men who live around there] or [the men who live in that town]
said, ‘There has not been a temple prostitute in this {place
Quote: אָֽמְר֔וּ לֹא־הָיְתָ֥ה בָזֶ֖ה קְדֵשָֽׁה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
See how you translated this same quote in verse 21. Consider whether or not it is better in your language to translate this as an indirect quote here in verse 22. Alternate translation: [say that there has never been a shrine prostitute near there]
Genesis 38:23
And Judah said
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יְהוּדָה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then Judah said to him] or [Judah replied]
so that we do not become a laughingstock
Quote: פֶּ֖ן נִהְיֶ֣ה לָב֑וּז (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
The pronouns we and “us” are inclusive here because Judah is including Hirah; some languages might use a dual pronoun. Use the pronouns that are best in your language in this context. Alternate translation: [so that people do not laugh at us] or [so that we are not publicly shamed]
Behold
Quote: הִנֵּ֤ה (1)Alternate translation: [After all]
I sent this kid
Quote: שָׁלַ֨חְתִּי֙ הַגְּדִ֣י הַזֶּ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [I did try to deliver this goat to her] or [I sent you to deliver this goat to her]
but you did not find her
Quote: וְאַתָּ֖ה לֹ֥א מְצָאתָֽהּ (1)Alternate translation: [but you could not find her]
Genesis 38:24
Then it happened about three months later
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י ׀ כְּמִשְׁלֹ֣שׁ חֳדָשִׁ֗ים (1)The phrase Then it happened introduces an important part of the story and helps create suspense or anticipation, so that it leaves the audience wondering what will happen next. Some translations leave it implied. Do what is best in your language.
that it was told to Judah, saying
Quote: וַיֻּגַּ֨ד לִֽיהוּדָ֤ה לֵֽאמֹר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [someone said to Judah] or [someone informed Judah]
Tamar your daughter-in-law
Quote: תָּמָ֣ר כַּלָּתֶ֔ךָ (1)Consider again how you translated daughter-in-law in the book of Genesis. See Gen 11:31; 38:11, 16, 24.
has prostituted herself
Quote: זָֽנְתָה֙ (1)Some languages have an idiom for this phrase. Do what is best in your language. See how you translated “prostitute” in Gen 34:31, 38:15 and “temple prostitute” in verses 21-22. Alternate translation: [has acted as a prostitute]
and also, behold, {she is} pregnant by her prostitutions
Quote: וְגַ֛ם הִנֵּ֥ה הָרָ֖ה לִזְנוּנִ֑ים (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [In fact, as a result of her immoral behavior she has become pregnant!] or [and even worse, she is now pregnant because of that!]
So Judah said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוּדָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Judah said angrily]
Bring her out
Quote: הוֹצִיא֖וּהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Executions were normally done outside of the city walls.
and let her be burned
Quote: וְתִשָּׂרֵֽף (1)Alternate translation: [and punish her by burning her to death!]
Genesis 38:25
She was being brought out
Quote: הִ֣וא מוּצֵ֗את (1)Alternate translation: [So they went to get Tamar, but as they were taking her out of the town]
and she sent {a message} to her father-in-law, saying
Quote: וְהִ֨יא שָׁלְחָ֤ה אֶל־חָמִ֨יהָ֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)See how you translated father-in-law in verse 13.
Then she said, “Please identify whose signet and cords and staff these {are
Quote: וַתֹּ֨אמֶר֙ הַכֶּר־נָ֔א לְמִ֞י הַחֹתֶ֧מֶת וְהַפְּתִילִ֛ים וְהַמַּטֶּ֖ה הָאֵֽלֶּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
For some languages it is more natural to omit the quote margin here, since what follows is a continuation of the message Tamar is sending to Judah. Do what is best in your language. See how you translated signet and “cord” and staff in verse 18. Alternate translation: [Please identify the man who owns this name thing with its string and this walking stick] or [Please look at this name seal with its cord and this walking stick. Do you know who they belong to?]
Genesis 38:26
And Judah identified {the things
Quote: וַיַּכֵּ֣ר יְהוּדָ֗ה (1)Alternate translation: [Judah saw that the things she had were his]
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Alternate translation: [and admitted]
She is more righteous than I {am
Quote: צָֽדְקָ֣ה מִמֶּ֔נִּי (1)Alternate translation: [She is right, and I am wrong]
because I did not give her to Shelah my son
Quote: כִּֽי־עַל־כֵּ֥ן לֹא־נְתַתִּ֖יהָ לְשֵׁלָ֣ה בְנִ֑י (1)Be consistent here with how you spelled Shelah in verses 5, 11, 14. Alternate translation: [because I refused to have my son Shelah marry her as I was required to!] or [because I did not let her marry my son Shelah as I was required to!]
And he did not continue to know her more
Quote: וְלֹֽא־יָסַ֥ף ע֖וֹד לְדַעְתָּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
Consider again how you translated the idiom “knew” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 4:1 (and note), 17, 25; 19:8; 24:16; 38:26. It may be necessary to translate 38:26 differently, since the relationship in this verse was outside of marriage. Compare how you translated a related idiom (“went to”) in verse 18. Alternate translation: [So they released her and after that he never again slept with her] or [… never had sexual relations with Tamar again]
Genesis 38:27
Then it happened when {it was} time for her to give birth
Quote: וַיְהִ֖י בְּעֵ֣ת לִדְתָּ֑הּ (1)See how you translated Then it happened in verse 24. The same phrase occurs three times in verses 27-29 to draw attention to the peak of this chapter, the birth of Perez, who was the ancestor of King David and the Messiah.
then behold, twins {were} inside her womb
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֥ה תְאוֹמִ֖ים בְּבִטְנָֽהּ (1)Alternate translation: [amazingly there were twins inside her!] or [they saw that there were twins inside her!] or [it turned out that she was going to have twins!]
Genesis 38:28
And it happened, as she was giving birth
Quote: וַיְהִ֥י בְלִדְתָּ֖הּ (1)See how you translated giving birth in Gen 35:16. This may need to be translated differently here because of the different context. Alternate translation: [As she was starting to deliver her babies]
then {one} put out a hand
Quote: וַיִּתֶּן־יָ֑ד (1)Alternate translation: [one of the twins put out his hand]
and the midwife took a scarlet thread and tied {it} on his hand, saying
Quote: וַתִּקַּ֣ח הַמְיַלֶּ֗דֶת וַתִּקְשֹׁ֨ר עַל־יָד֤וֹ שָׁנִי֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)The midwife did this because it was her responsibility to identify which baby was the firstborn. See how you translated midwife in Gen 35:17. Alternate translation: [Then the midwife who was there tied a bright red thread on his wrist and said] or [So the midwife who was helping her …]
This {one} came out first
Quote: זֶ֖ה יָצָ֥א רִאשֹׁנָֽה (1)Alternate translation: [This one was born first]
Genesis 38:29
But it happened, when he drew his hand back in, then behold
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י ׀ כְּמֵשִׁ֣יב יָד֗וֹ וְהִנֵּה֙ (1)Alternate translation: [But then that baby pulled his hand back inside, and suddenly]
his brother came out
Quote: יָצָ֣א אָחִ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Alternate translation: [his brother came out first instead]
Then she said
Quote: וַתֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [So the midwife said to the baby]
How have you breached for yourself a breach
Quote: מַה־פָּרַ֖צְתָּ עָלֶ֣יךָ פָּ֑רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The midwife uses a rhetorical question here to emphasize how surprised she is that Perez was born first. Decide the best way to communicate this in your language. Alternate translation: [How did you burst yourself out like that?] or [What a powerful way for you to burst out!] or [Just look at how you have forced your way out!]
So he called his name
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)Although this phrase could mean that Judah (Perez’s father) named Perez, most translations translate this in a general or indefinite way that does not specify who named him. See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 29:34. Alternate translation: [So they named him]
Perez
Quote: פָּֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
If you include the meaning of Perez’ name in your translation or in a footnote, make sure it fits with how you translated the previous sentence.
Genesis 38:30
And afterwards, his brother
Quote: וְאַחַר֙ & אָחִ֔יו (1)Alternate translation: [After that, his twin brother]
came out
Quote: יָצָ֣א (1)Alternate translation: [was born]
who {had} the scarlet thread on his hand
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר עַל־יָד֖וֹ הַשָּׁנִ֑י (1)See how you translated scarlet thread in verse 28. Alternate translation: [who had the bright red thread on his wrist] or [with the bright red string on his wrist]
and he called his name
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א שְׁמ֖וֹ (1)See how you translated he called his name in verse 29. Alternate translation: [So they named him]
Genesis 39
Genesis 39:1
Now Joseph had been taken down to Egypt
Quote: וְיוֹסֵ֖ף הוּרַ֣ד מִצְרָ֑יְמָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
Chapter 39 picks up where 37:36 left off and repeats some events (that happened in chapter 37) to remind readers of what happened before chapter 38 interrupted the narrative. Make sure your translation does not sound like Joseph was taken to Egypt twice or sold to Potiphar twice. Alternate translation: [Now as you know, Ishmaelite merchants had brought Joseph down to the country of Egypt] or [Returning now to Joseph: Remember that he had been taken down to the country of Egypt by Ishmaelite traders]
Potiphar, an Egyptian man, an official of Pharaoh, the chief of the guards
Quote: פּוֹטִיפַר֩ סְרִ֨יס פַּרְעֹ֜ה שַׂ֤ר הַטַּבָּחִים֙ אִ֣ישׁ מִצְרִ֔י (1)See how you translated an official of Pharaoh, the chief of the guards in Gen 37:36.
and … had bought him from the hand of the Ishmaelites who had taken him down there
Quote: וַיִּקְנֵ֡הוּ & מִיַּד֙ הַיִּשְׁמְעֵאלִ֔ים אֲשֶׁ֥ר הוֹרִדֻ֖הוּ שָֽׁמָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is clearer and more natural to change the order of clauses in this verse and say, “Now as you know, some Ishmaelite traders had taken/brought Joseph down to the country of Egypt, and an Egyptian named Potiphar had bought him as a slave/servant from them. Potiphar was one of Pharaoh’s officials/officers, the captain over the king’s personal guards.” Do what is best in your language. See how you translated Ishmaelites in Gen 37:25, 27-28. Alternate translation: [had bought him as a slave from the Ishmaelites who had brought him there]
Genesis 39:2
And Yahweh was with Joseph
Quote: וַיְהִ֤י יְהוָה֙ אֶת־יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)See how you translated was with in Gen 21:20; 26:28. Alternate translation: [But Yahweh was with Joseph and helped him]
and he was a successful man
Quote: וַיְהִ֖י אִ֣ישׁ מַצְלִ֑יחַ (1)Alternate translation: [so that he succeeded in what he did] or [so that he did everything very well]
and he was in the house of his Egyptian master
Quote: וַיְהִ֕י בְּבֵ֥ית אֲדֹנָ֖יו הַמִּצְרִֽי (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, “As Joseph worked in his Egyptian master/owner’s house, Yahweh was with him/Joseph and helped/blessed him, so that he succeeded in everything he did.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 39:3
And his master saw that Yahweh {was} with him
Quote: וַיַּ֣רְא אֲדֹנָ֔יו כִּ֥י יְהוָ֖ה אִתּ֑וֹ (1)In verses 2 through 20, Potiphar is referred to as Joseph’s master (verses 2-3, 7-8, 16, 19-20) and “the Egyptian” (verse 5); he is no longer mentioned by his name in the Hebrew text. Some translations continue to use Potiphar’s name occasionally in verses 2 through 20 to prevent confusion and make it clear that all of these references refer to the same person, not two or three different people. Do what is best in your language. See how you translated master or “owner” in Gen 24:9-10.
and {that} Yahweh made all that he was doing successful in his hand
Quote: וְכֹל֙ אֲשֶׁר־ה֣וּא עֹשֶׂ֔ה יְהוָ֖ה מַצְלִ֥יחַ בְּיָדֽוֹ (1)See how you translated successful in verse 2. Alternate translation: [and was helping Joseph to prosper in everything that he did] or [and was helping Joseph to do everything very well]
Genesis 39:4
So Joseph found favor in his eyes, and he served him
Quote: וַיִּמְצָ֨א יוֹסֵ֥ף חֵ֛ן בְּעֵינָ֖יו וַיְשָׁ֣רֶת אֹת֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Make sure that your translation of in his eyes refers here to Joseph’s master, not Yahweh. Also, see how you translated the idiom “found favor in … eyes” in Gen 6:8. Alternate translation: [So he was pleased with him and made him his personal servant]
And he put him in charge over his house and gave into his hand all {that} was his
Quote: וַיַּפְקִדֵ֨הוּ֙ עַל־בֵּית֔וֹ וְכָל־יֶשׁ־ל֖וֹ נָתַ֥ן בְּיָדֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Make sure your translation of the pronouns (“he,” “him,” and his) in verses 2 through 6 refers to the correct person at each point in the text. Also see how you translated the idiom “gave … into the hand of” in Gen 32:16. Alternate translation: [He also put Joseph in charge of managing his household and taking care of everything else that he owned] or [He also appointed him as the overseer of his entire household and entrusted into his care everything that belonged to him]
Genesis 39:5
And it happened from the time
Quote: וַיְהִ֡י מֵאָז֩ (1)Alternate translation: [Beginning from the time that]
he put him in charge in his house and over all that was his
Quote: הִפְקִ֨יד אֹת֜וֹ בְּבֵית֗וֹ וְעַל֙ כָּל־אֲשֶׁ֣ר יֶשׁ־ל֔וֹ (1)See how you translated “put him in charge … his house and … everything that was his” in verse 4. It is repeated in verse 5 in the Hebrew text to emphasize the authority that Joseph was given. Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [he put him in charge of managing everything that belonged to him]
then Yahweh blessed the house of the Egyptian
Quote: וַיְבָ֧רֶךְ יְהוָ֛ה אֶת־בֵּ֥ית הַמִּצְרִ֖י (1)Make sure it is clear in your translation of this chapter that “Egyptian,” “master,” and “Potiphar” all refer to the same person, not two or three different people.
because of Joseph
Quote: בִּגְלַ֣ל יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)Alternate translation: [because Joseph was working for him]
So the blessing of Yahweh was on all that was his
Quote: וַיְהִ֞י בִּרְכַּ֤ת יְהוָה֙ בְּכָל־אֲשֶׁ֣ר יֶשׁ־ל֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [Yahweh blessed everything that belonged to him] or [He caused everything that he owned to prosper]
in the house and in the fields
Quote: בַּבַּ֖יִת וּבַשָּׂדֶֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
In this context, house especially refers to the people in the house and fields refers to what is in the fields. Alternate translation: [including everything in his household and in his fields] or [including his family and servants in his household, as well as the crops and livestock in his fields]
Genesis 39:6
And he left all that {belonged} to him in the hand of Joseph
Quote: וַיַּעֲזֹ֣ב כָּל־אֲשֶׁר־לוֹ֮ בְּיַד־יוֹסֵף֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated a similar idiom (“gave into his hand”) in verse 4. Alternate translation: [In fact, he gave Joseph the responsibility of managing everything that he had, so that]
and he did not think to himself {about} anything except for the bread that he ate
Quote: וְלֹא־יָדַ֤ע אִתּוֹ֙ מְא֔וּמָה כִּ֥י אִם־הַלֶּ֖חֶם אֲשֶׁר־ה֣וּא אוֹכֵ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions
For some languages, it is more natural to put the exception clause first in the sentence. Do what is best in your language. Also, Potiphar did more than decide what to eat; that was just one example of personal decisions which were all he had to concern himself with. Alternate translation: [he did not need to concern himself with anything in his household except for personal things like deciding what kind of food he wanted to eat] or [the only thing he needed to decide about in his household was personal things like what food he wanted to eat]
Now Joseph was handsome in form and handsome in appearance
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י יוֹסֵ֔ף יְפֵה־תֹ֖אַר וִיפֵ֥ה מַרְאֶֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
Some languages have a conjunction such as Now that introduces background information and a change of topic. For other languages a paragraph break is enough (without a conjunction). Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Joseph was muscular and good-looking] or [Now Joseph was a very handsome young man]
Genesis 39:7
And it happened after those things
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י אַחַר֙ הַדְּבָרִ֣ים הָאֵ֔לֶּה (1)The phrase And it happened introduces and emphasizes an important event. Many English translations do not include this phrase. Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [After he had been there for a while]
then the wife of his master lifted her eyes toward Joseph
Quote: וַתִּשָּׂ֧א אֵֽשֶׁת־אֲדֹנָ֛יו אֶת־עֵינֶ֖יהָ אֶל־יוֹסֵ֑ף (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.
and said
Quote: וַתֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Translate this quote introduction in a way that fits well with what Potiphar’s wife says to Joseph. Alternate translation: [and said to him] or [and demanded him]
Lie with me
Quote: שִׁכְבָ֥ה עִמִּֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
See how you translated the idiom “lie with” in Gen 19:32. Alternate translation: [Sleep with me!]
Genesis 39:8
But he refused
Quote: וַיְמָאֵ֓ן (1)Alternate translation: [But he rejected her demand]
and said to the wife of his master
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אֶל־אֵ֣שֶׁת אֲדֹנָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [and told her]
Behold
Quote: הֵ֣ן (1)Alternate translation: [Look] or [Notice that]
with me {here
Quote: אִתִּ֖י (1)Alternate translation: [with me in charge] or [since I am working here]
my master does not think {about
Quote: אֲדֹנִ֔י לֹא־יָדַ֥ע (1)Alternate translation: [my owner does not need to worry about] or [my owner does not need to concern himself with]
what {is} in the house
Quote: מַה־בַּבָּ֑יִת (1)Alternate translation: [managing anything in his household]
and all that is his he has given into my hand
Quote: וְכֹ֥ל אֲשֶׁר־יֶשׁ־ל֖וֹ נָתַ֥ן בְּיָדִֽי (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 the idiom “gave into … hand” in verse 4. Alternate translation: [In fact, everything that he owns he has entrusted to my care] or [In fact, he has put me in charge of everything that he has]
Genesis 39:9
He is not greater than me in this house
Quote: אֵינֶ֨נּוּ גָד֜וֹל בַּבַּ֣יִת הַזֶּה֮ מִמֶּנִּי֒ (1)As Joseph’s master, Potiphar still had more authority than Joseph. But he had given Joseph authority to act in his place over everything in his household. Try to make that clear in your translation. Also, consider whether it is more natural in your language to begin verse 9 with a new sentence or to continue the sentence from verse 8. Alternate translation: [As a result, even he does not exercise more authority in his household than I do]
and he has not withheld anything from me except for you, because you {are} his wife
Quote: וְלֹֽא־חָשַׂ֤ךְ מִמֶּ֨נִּי֙ מְא֔וּמָה כִּ֥י אִם־אוֹתָ֖ךְ בַּאֲשֶׁ֣ר אַתְּ־אִשְׁתּ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes
The phrase has not withheld is a litotes that emphasizes the freedom that Potiphar had given Joseph. Some languages must translate this in a way that does not use a negative word such as not. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [and he has given me freedom with everything in his household, except you, of course, because you are his wife] or [He allows me to do anything in his household, except with you, his wife]
So how can I do this great evil, and sin against God
Quote: וְאֵ֨יךְ אֶֽעֱשֶׂ֜ה הָרָעָ֤ה הַגְּדֹלָה֙ הַזֹּ֔את וְחָטָ֖אתִי לֵֽאלֹהִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Joseph uses this rhetorical question to emphasize why he will not do what Potiphar’s wife wants. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [So I refuse to do such an evil thing, which would be a terrible sin against God!]
Genesis 39:10
Then it happened even though she kept speaking to Joseph day {after} day
Quote: וַיְהִ֕י כְּדַבְּרָ֥הּ אֶל־יוֹסֵ֖ף י֣וֹם ׀ י֑וֹם (1)The phrase “Then/And it happened” is used several times in this chapter (verses 5, 7, 10, 11, 13, 15, 18, 19) to introduce and emphasize important events and to increase suspense so that the audience wonders what the outcome will be. Many English translations have omitted this phrase, possibly for reasons of naturalness. Consider whether you have an expression like this that is natural in your language.
yet he did not listen to her to lie beside her
Quote: וְלֹא־שָׁמַ֥ע אֵלֶ֛יהָ לִשְׁכַּ֥ב אֶצְלָ֖הּ (1)Alternate translation: [he did not do what she wanted, but refused to lie with her] or [he refused her demands]
to be with her
Quote: לִהְי֥וֹת עִמָּֽהּ (1)Alternate translation: [and he stayed away from her] or [and would not even go near her]
Genesis 39:11
Then it happened on such a day
Quote: וַיְהִי֙ כְּהַיּ֣וֹם הַזֶּ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [But then on a day like that] or [But one such day] or [But one day]
and there were no other men of the house there in the house
Quote: וְאֵ֨ין אִ֜ישׁ מֵאַנְשֵׁ֥י הַבַּ֛יִת שָׁ֖ם בַּבָּֽיִת (1)Alternate translation: [none of the other household menservants were there]
Genesis 39:12
So she caught him by his garment
Quote: וַתִּתְפְּשֵׂ֧הוּ בְּבִגְד֛וֹ (1)The word garment is very general and probably refers to an outer article of clothing, such as a robe or tunic.
saying
Quote: לֵאמֹ֖ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
See how you translated this quote introduction in verse 7. Alternate translation: [and said to him] or [and said]
Lie with me
Quote: שִׁכְבָ֣ה עִמִּ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
See how you translated this quote in verse 7. Alternate translation: [Sleep with me!]
But he left his garment in her hand and fled and went outside
Quote: וַיַּעֲזֹ֤ב בִּגְדוֹ֙ בְּיָדָ֔הּ וַיָּ֖נָס וַיֵּצֵ֥א הַחֽוּצָה (1)Make sure your translation does not sound here like Joseph put his garment in her hands. Rather, it came off in her hands as he was fleeing. Alternate translation: [But immediately he fled and left his tunic behind in her hands as he ran outside] or [But he immediately got away from her and fled outdoors, leaving his tunic behind in her hands]
Genesis 39:13
Then it happened when she saw
Quote: וַיְהִי֙ כִּרְאוֹתָ֔הּ (1)Alternate translation: [After she saw]
that he had left his garment in her hands and had fled outside
Quote: כִּֽי־עָזַ֥ב בִּגְד֖וֹ בְּיָדָ֑הּ וַיָּ֖נָס הַחֽוּצָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
See how you translated a similar clause in verse 12. Alternate translation: [that Joseph had left his tunic behind in her hands as he ran outside] or [that Joseph had fled outside and left his tunic behind in her hands]
Genesis 39:14
then she called for the men of her house
Quote: וַתִּקְרָ֞א לְאַנְשֵׁ֣י בֵיתָ֗הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See how you translated “men of the house” in verse 11. Alternate translation: [she called out for the other household menservants to come to her] or [she summoned the other menservants of her household to come]
and said to them, saying
Quote: וַתֹּ֤אמֶר לָהֶם֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then when they came, she exclaimed to them]
Look
Quote: רְא֗וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
As Potiphar’s wife speaks, she is probably showing the servants Joseph’s garment in her hands. Alternate translation: [Look at this!] or [See what happened!]
He brought to us a Hebrew man
Quote: הֵ֥בִיא לָ֛נוּ אִ֥ישׁ עִבְרִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Make sure that your translation of He brought refers here to Potiphar (as verse 17 confirms), not Joseph. Alternate translation: [My husband brought this Hebrew slave here to us]
to laugh at us
Quote: לְצַ֣חֶק בָּ֑נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
In this context, us is general and includes Potiphar’s wife and the people she is talking to. Alternate translation: [to mock us!]
He came to me
Quote: בָּ֤א אֵלַי֙ (1)Make sure your translation of He came refers here to Joseph, not Potiphar (who was the subject of the previous sentence in the Hebrew text). Alternate translation: [That man came here to me]
to lie with me
Quote: לִשְׁכַּ֣ב עִמִּ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Consider again how you translated the idiom lie with in the book of Genesis. See Gen 19:32-35; 26:10; 30:15-16; 34:2, 7; 35:22; 39:7, 10, 12, 14. It may be necessary to translate this in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [to force me to lie with him]
but I called out with a loud voice
Quote: וָאֶקְרָ֖א בְּק֥וֹל גָּדֽוֹל (1)Alternate translation: [but I cried out for help!] or [but I shouted loudly for help!]
Genesis 39:15
Then it happened when he heard
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י כְשָׁמְע֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [Then when]
Then it happened when he heard that I raised my voice and called out
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י כְשָׁמְע֔וֹ כִּֽי־הֲרִימֹ֥תִי קוֹלִ֖י וָאֶקְרָ֑א (1)Alternate translation: [Then when he heard me cry out loudly] or [Then as soon as he heard me shout like that]
then he left his garment beside me and fled and went outside
Quote: וַיַּעֲזֹ֤ב בִּגְדוֹ֙ אֶצְלִ֔י וַיָּ֖נָס וַיֵּצֵ֥א הַחֽוּצָה (1)See how you translated a similar clause in verses 12 and 13. Alternate translation: [he left his tunic with me and fled outside] or [he immediately fled outdoors and he left his tunic behind!]
Genesis 39:16
Then she kept
Quote: וַתַּנַּ֥ח (1)Alternate translation: [So she kept]
until his master
Quote: עַד & אֲדֹנָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Make sure that your translation of this phrase does not sound like her husband and Joseph’s master were two different people. Do what is best in your language.
came to his house
Quote: בּ֥וֹא & אֶל־בֵּיתֽוֹ (1)Alternate translation: [came back to his home] or [came home]
Genesis 39:17
Then she spoke to him
Quote: וַתְּדַבֵּ֣ר אֵלָ֔יו (1)Alternate translation: [Then when he arrived, she told him]
according to those words
Quote: כַּדְּבָרִ֥ים הָאֵ֖לֶּה (1)Alternate translation: [the same thing she had told the others]
saying
Quote: לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [This is what she said:]
The Hebrew slave whom you brought
Quote: הָעֶ֧בֶד הָֽעִבְרִ֛י אֲשֶׁר־הֵבֵ֥אתָ (1)Alternate translation: [That Hebrew slave whom you brought]
to us
Quote: לָּ֖נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
Here the pronoun us includes Potiphar, his wife and their household. Alternate translation: [to work for us]
came to me to laugh at me
Quote: בָּֽא־אֵלַ֞י & לְצַ֥חֶק בִּֽי (1)See how you translated laugh at in verse 14. Alternate translation: [just now came to me to mock me!]
Genesis 39:18
Then it happened when I raised my voice and called out
Quote: וַיְהִ֕י כַּהֲרִימִ֥י קוֹלִ֖י וָאֶקְרָ֑א (1)See how you translated verse 15, which is similar to verse 18. Alternate translation: [But as soon as I shouted loudly] or [But when I shouted for help]
then he left his garment beside me and fled outside
Quote: וַיַּעֲזֹ֥ב בִּגְד֛וֹ אֶצְלִ֖י וַיָּ֥נָס הַחֽוּצָה (1)Consider again how you translated garment in verses 12-13, 15-16, 18. Alternate translation: [he left his tunic beside me and ran outside]
Genesis 39:19
the words of his wife that she spoke to him, saying, “Such {are} the things your slave did to me
Quote: אֶת־דִּבְרֵ֣י אִשְׁתּ֗וֹ אֲשֶׁ֨ר דִּבְּרָ֤ה אֵלָיו֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר כַּדְּבָרִ֣ים הָאֵ֔לֶּה עָ֥שָׂהּ לִ֖י עַבְדֶּ֑ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Make sure that your translation of his refers to Joseph’s master here, not Joseph. Also, consider whether it is better in your language to use a direct or indirect quote here.
then his anger burned
Quote: וַיִּ֖חַר אַפּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom that would fit well here. Alternate translation: [he burned with anger]
Genesis 39:20
Then Joseph’s master took him and put him in the round-house
Quote: וַיִּקַּח֩ אֲדֹנֵ֨י יוֹסֵ֜ף אֹת֗וֹ וַֽיִּתְּנֵ֨הוּ֙ אֶל־בֵּ֣ית הַסֹּ֔הַר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Potiphar probably had soldiers arrest Joseph for him, since he had the authority to do that as the captain of the guards. Consider again how you referred to Joseph and Joseph’s master, Potiphar, in verses 1-20. As usual, after you finish translating a section like this, it is a good practice to read the section aloud at a normal pace and listen carefully to make sure you refer to everyone accurately and naturally at each point in the text. Alternate translation: [Then he had Joseph arrested and put in the jail] or [And he had soldiers arrest Joseph and put him in the jail]
the place where the prisoners of the king were bound
Quote: מְק֕וֹם אֲשֶׁר־אסורי הַמֶּ֖לֶךְ אֲסוּרִ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [where they imprisoned people who had committed crimes against the king]
So he was there in the round-house
Quote: וַֽיְהִי־שָׁ֖ם בְּבֵ֥ית הַסֹּֽהַר (1)Alternate translation: [So Joseph was there in the prison]
Genesis 39:21
and showed kindness to him
Quote: וַיֵּ֥ט אֵלָ֖יו חָ֑סֶד (1)See how you translated “show kindness” in Gen 24:12. Alternate translation: [and was gracious to him]
and gave him favor in the eyes of the chief of the round-house
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֣ן חִנּ֔וֹ בְּעֵינֵ֖י שַׂ֥ר בֵּית־הַסֹּֽהַר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated a similar phrase (“favor in … eyes”) in verse 4. Alternate translation: [and caused the prison warden to be pleased with him, so that he treated him favorably]
Genesis 39:22
And the chief of the round-house gave into the hand of Joseph
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֞ן שַׂ֤ר בֵּית־הַסֹּ֨הַר֙ בְּיַד־יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Alternate translation: [Soon the warden of the prison gave Joseph the responsibility for taking care of]
all the prisoners who {were} in the round-house
Quote: אֵ֚ת כָּל־הָ֣אֲסִירִ֔ם אֲשֶׁ֖ר בְּבֵ֣ית הַסֹּ֑הַר (1)Alternate translation: [all the other prisoners who were in the prison]
and all that they were doing there, he was {the one} doing {it
Quote: וְאֵ֨ת כָּל־אֲשֶׁ֤ר עֹשִׂים֙ שָׁ֔ם ה֖וּא הָיָ֥ה עֹשֶֽׂה (1)Alternate translation: [so that he was in charge of everything that was done there]
Genesis 39:23
The chief of the round-house
Quote: שַׂ֣ר בֵּית־הַסֹּ֗הַר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [So the warden] or [As a result the jail warden]
did not look {at} anything
Quote: אֵ֣ין & רֹאֶ֤ה אֶֽת־כָּל־מְא֨וּמָה֙ (1)Alternate translation: [did not need to supervise anything]
in his hand
Quote: בְּיָד֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [that Joseph was managing]
because Yahweh was with him
Quote: בַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר יְהוָ֖ה אִתּ֑וֹ (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, “Because/Since Yahweh was with Joseph and helped him to succeed in whatever he did, the warden did not need to supervise/oversee anything that Joseph was in charge of.” Do what is best in your language.
and Yahweh made what he was doing successful
Quote: וַֽאֲשֶׁר־ה֥וּא עֹשֶׂ֖ה יְהוָ֥ה מַצְלִֽיחַ (1)See how you translated a similar clause (“Yahweh made all that he was doing successful”) in verse 3. Alternate translation: [and gave him success in whatever he did] or [and helped him to succeed at everything he did]
Genesis 40
Genesis 40:1
Then it happened after those things {that
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י אַחַר֙ הַדְּבָרִ֣ים הָאֵ֔לֶּה (1)Alternate translation: [After some time, one day]
the cupbearer of the king of Egypt and the baker
Quote: מַשְׁקֵ֥ה מֶֽלֶךְ־מִצְרַ֖יִם וְהָאֹפֶ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The chief cupbearer was one of Pharaoh’s most trusted servants. He was in charge of serving Pharaoh anything that he wanted to drink, especially wine. It was his job to test the drink before Pharaoh had some, to make sure it was high quality and not poisoned. Some of that information could be put in a footnote. Also, it may be more natural to include here in verse 1 the fact that these were the head officials in these jobs, rather than wait until verse 2 to introduce that. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [the chief wine-server and the chief baker for the king over Egypt] or [the man who was in charge of those who served wine to the king over Egypt and the man who was in charge of those who baked bread for the king]
sinned
Quote: חָֽטְא֛וּ (1)The text does not say what the officials did wrong that angered Pharaoh. They may have done their jobs poorly in some way. Translate this phrase in a way that fits this context well in your language. Alternate translation: [displeased] or [offended]
against their lord, against the king of Egypt
Quote: לַאֲדֹנֵיהֶ֖ם לְמֶ֥לֶךְ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)For some languages it is more natural to include here in verse 1 the fact that the king of Egypt was Pharaoh, rather than wait until verse 2 to introduce that. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [their master, who was Pharaoh the king over Egypt]
Genesis 40:2
And Pharaoh broke out in anger
Quote: וַיִּקְצֹ֣ף פַּרְעֹ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Make sure it is clear in your translation that Pharaoh (verse 2) is the same person as the king of Egypt (verse 1). See how you translated Pharaoh in Gen 12:15, and see the important note about this there. Alternate translation: [So he] or [So the king]
And Pharaoh broke out in anger against
Quote: וַיִּקְצֹ֣ף פַּרְעֹ֔ה עַ֖ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Consider whether or not your language has an idiom similar to broke out in anger that fits well here. Alternate translation: [was very angry at]
his two officials, against the chief of the cupbearers and against the chief of the bakers
Quote: שְׁנֵ֣י סָרִיסָ֑יו עַ֚ל שַׂ֣ר הַמַּשְׁקִ֔ים וְעַ֖ל שַׂ֥ר הָאוֹפִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-versebridge
It may be more natural to combine verses 1 and 2 and say, “Sometime after that, Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, became very angry at two of his officials, his chief wine-server and chief baker, because they had displeased him.” In this case, you would also combine the verse numbers (1-2) to show it is a verse bridge combining two verses. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [the official in charge of serving wine to him and the official in charge of baking bread for him] or [his head wine-server and head baker] or [those two officials]
Genesis 40:3
and he put them
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֨ן אֹתָ֜ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Often in the Bible (as here), when it says that a king (or someone else with authority) did something, it is implied that he had people who were under his authority actually do it. See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 39:20. Alternate translation: [So he had them arrested and put]
in custody
Quote: בְּמִשְׁמַ֗ר (1)Alternate translation: [under guard]
in the house of the chief of the guards
Quote: בֵּ֛ית שַׂ֥ר הַטַבָּחִ֖ים (1)Apparently the round-house prison was part of the house where the chief of the guards lived and worked, perhaps a lower part (See: Joseph’s use of the word “pit” in verse 15 to refer to this prison). See how you translated “chief/captain of the guards” in Gen 37:36 and 39:1. Alternate translation: [in the house of the captain of the guards]
in the round-house, the place where Joseph was bound
Quote: אֶל־בֵּ֣ית הַסֹּ֑הַר מְק֕וֹם אֲשֶׁ֥ר יוֹסֵ֖ף אָס֥וּר (1)See how you translated bound in Gen 39:20. Alternate translation: [that is, in the round-house jail, the same prison where Joseph was imprisoned]
Genesis 40:4
And the chief of the guards assigned Joseph to them
Quote: וַ֠יִּפְקֹד שַׂ֣ר הַטַּבָּחִ֧ים אֶת־יוֹסֵ֛ף אִתָּ֖ם (1)Alternate translation: [There the captain of the guards assigned Joseph to take care of them]
so he attended them
Quote: וַיְשָׁ֣רֶת אֹתָ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [and so he waited on them]
and they were in custody
Quote: וַיִּהְי֥וּ & בְּמִשְׁמָֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Some translations begin a new paragraph and sentence here that continues into verse 5 and say, “After they had been in prison for a while, 5 one night the king’s head wine-server and head baker dreamed …” Alternate translation: [and they were kept in custody] or [and they remained in custody]
for} days
Quote: יָמִ֖ים (1)The phrase for days is a general expression that refers to an unspecified length of time. Alternate translation: [for some days] or [for a while]
Genesis 40:5
Then the two of them dreamed a dream. Each {had} his {own} dream in the same night
Quote: וַיַּֽחַלְמוּ֩ חֲל֨וֹם שְׁנֵיהֶ֜ם אִ֤ישׁ חֲלֹמוֹ֙ בְּלַ֣יְלָה אֶחָ֔ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Alternate translation: [Then one night the two of them each had a dream] or [One night they both had a dream]
and} each {man’s} dream had its own interpretation
Quote: אִ֖ישׁ כְּפִתְר֣וֹן חֲלֹמ֑וֹ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [and each of the dreams had its own meaning] or [each with its own meaning]
They were} the cupbearer and the baker who {belonged} to the king of Egypt, who were bound in the round-house
Quote: הַמַּשְׁקֶ֣ה וְהָאֹפֶ֗ה אֲשֶׁר֙ לְמֶ֣לֶךְ מִצְרַ֔יִם אֲשֶׁ֥ר אֲסוּרִ֖ים בְּבֵ֥ית הַסֹּֽהַר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Many translations leave this sentence implied because it repeats information from the previous verses and may sound too repetitive. Or you could put this sentence earlier in this verse and say, “One night, the king of Egypt’s wine server and baker each had a dream while they were in prison, and each man’s/one’s dream had its own interpretation/meaning.” Make sure it is clear in your translation that the cupbearer and baker in verse 5 are the same officials as those in verses 2-4. Alternate translation: [This is talking about the wine-server and the baker, who had served the king of Egypt but were in prison]
Genesis 40:6
And Joseph came to them in the morning and saw them, and behold
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֧א אֲלֵיהֶ֛ם יוֹסֵ֖ף בַּבֹּ֑קֶר וַיַּ֣רְא אֹתָ֔ם וְהִנָּ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to have the time phrase in the morning first this verse. Alternate translation: [In the morning, Joseph came to serve them and was surprised to see that] or [The next morning, when Joseph came to serve them, he saw that]
they were upset
Quote: זֹעֲפִֽים (1)Alternate translation: [they were troubled] or [they looked distressed]
Genesis 40:7
So he asked Pharaoh’s officials who {were} with him in custody {in} the house of his master, saying
Quote: וַיִּשְׁאַ֞ל אֶת־סְרִיסֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֗ה אֲשֶׁ֨ר אִתּ֧וֹ בְמִשְׁמַ֛ר בֵּ֥ית אֲדֹנָ֖יו לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Alternate translation: [And he asked them]
Why {are} your faces sad today
Quote: מַדּ֛וּעַ פְּנֵיכֶ֥ם רָעִ֖ים הַיּֽוֹם (1)Some languages have an idiom that fits well here. Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [Why do your faces look so downcast today?] or [Why do you look so sad today?]
Genesis 40:8
And they said to him
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֣וּ אֵלָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [They replied]
We dreamed a dream
Quote: חֲל֣וֹם חָלַ֔מְנוּ (1)Alternate translation: [Last night we each had a dream]
but {there is} no one to interpret it
Quote: וּפֹתֵ֖ר אֵ֣ין אֹת֑וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [but we do not have anyone here to explain them for us]
Then Joseph said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר אֲלֵהֶ֜ם יוֹסֵ֗ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [So Joseph replied]
Don’t interpretations {belong} to God
Quote: הֲל֤וֹא לֵֽאלֹהִים֙ פִּתְרֹנִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Joseph uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that God is the only one who interprets dreams. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: [God is the only one who can explain the meaning of dreams] or [God is the only one who gives people the ability to interpret the meaning of dreams]
Please tell {them} to me
Quote: סַפְּרוּ־נָ֖א לִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Make sure that your translation of the last two sentences in this verse does not sound like Joseph is claiming to be God. Rather, he is saying that if the two officials tell their dreams to him, God will enable him to interpret the dreams. Alternate translation: [Please tell your dreams to me and God will reveal to me what they mean]
Genesis 40:9
Then the chief of the cupbearers told his dream to Joseph
Quote: וַיְסַפֵּ֧ר שַֽׂר־הַמַּשְׁקִ֛ים אֶת־חֲלֹמ֖וֹ לְיוֹסֵ֑ף (1)See how you translated chief of the cupbearers in verse 2. Alternate translation: [So the head wine-server told Joseph what was in his dream] or [So the officer who was in charge over the wine-servers described to Joseph what he had seen in his dream]
and said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר ל֔וֹ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [by saying] or [This is what he said:]
And behold, in my dream a grapevine
Quote: בַּחֲלוֹמִ֕י וְהִנֵּה־גֶ֖פֶן (1)If grapevines and grapes are not known in your area, you could be more general in verses 9-11 and say “vine” and “fruit.” See how you translated “vineyard” in Gen 9:20. Alternate translation: [In my dream there was a vine] or [While I was dreaming, I saw a grapevine]
Genesis 40:10
and on the grapevine {were} three branches
Quote: וּבַגֶּ֖פֶן שְׁלֹשָׁ֣ה שָׂרִיגִ֑ם (1)Consider whether or not it is more natural to begin a new sentence here in your language. Alternate translation: [The vine had three branches]
Then while it was budding
Quote: וְהִ֤יא כְפֹרַ֨חַת֙ (1)Alternate translation: [As soon as it started budding] or [Soon buds started forming on the vine Then]
its blossoms came out
Quote: עָלְתָ֣ה נִצָּ֔הּ (1)Alternate translation: [suddenly there were flowers] or [the buds became blossoms]
and} its clusters ripened {into} grapes
Quote: הִבְשִׁ֥ילוּ אַשְׁכְּלֹתֶ֖יהָ עֲנָבִֽים (1)Alternate translation: [and its clusters of flowers became clusters of ripe fruit] or [and the flowers became clusters of ripe fruit]
Genesis 40:11
and I took the grapes
Quote: וָאֶקַּ֣ח אֶת־הָֽעֲנָבִ֗ים (1)Alternate translation: [so I picked some fruit from the vine]
and squeezed them
Quote: וָֽאֶשְׂחַ֤ט אֹתָם֙ (1)Alternate translation: [and squeezed them so that the juice went]
Then I put the cup into the hand of Pharaoh
Quote: וָאֶתֵּ֥ן אֶת־הַכּ֖וֹס עַל־כַּ֥ף פַּרְעֹֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Alternate translation: [Then I gave the cup to Pharaoh and he drank from it]
Genesis 40:12
Then Joseph said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר לוֹ֙ יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Alternate translation: [Then Joseph told him]
This {is} its interpretation
Quote: זֶ֖ה פִּתְרֹנ֑וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [This is the meaning of your dream:] or [Here is what your dream means:]
The three branches {are} three days
Quote: שְׁלֹ֨שֶׁת֙ הַשָּׂ֣רִגִ֔ים שְׁלֹ֥שֶׁת יָמִ֖ים (1)Alternate translation: [The three branches symbolize three days]
Genesis 40:13
Within three days
Quote: בְּע֣וֹד ׀ שְׁלֹ֣שֶׁת יָמִ֗ים (1)Alternate translation: [In three more days] or [Three days from now]
Pharaoh
Quote: פַרְעֹה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics
Consider what is the best way to refer to Pharaoh here in your language. Some languages need to include an honorific title with his name more often than other languages. Alternate translation: [the king]
will lift up your head
Quote: יִשָּׂ֤א & אֶת־רֹאשֶׁ֔ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The idiom lift up your head means that the wine-server will be summoned or brought out from the lowly or shameful place where he had been staying. Alternate translation: [will have you brought up out of prison]
and restore you to your position
Quote: וַהֲשִֽׁיבְךָ֖ עַל־כַּנֶּ֑ךָ (1)Alternate translation: [and reappoint you to your previous work] or [and give you back your status]
and you will put Pharaoh’s cup into his hand
Quote: וְנָתַתָּ֤ כוֹס־פַּרְעֹה֙ בְּיָד֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [so that you will again serve wine to Pharaoh] or [so that you will again have the duty of serving him his cup of wine]
according to the former custom when you were his cupbearer
Quote: כַּמִּשְׁפָּט֙ הָֽרִאשׁ֔וֹן אֲשֶׁ֥ר הָיִ֖יתָ מַשְׁקֵֽהוּ (1)Alternate translation: [as you used to do when you were his cupbearer] or [the way you did before as his cupbearer]
Genesis 40:14
But if you remember me with you, when it goes well for you
Quote: כִּ֧י אִם־זְכַרְתַּ֣נִי אִתְּךָ֗ כַּאֲשֶׁר֙ יִ֣יטַב לָ֔ךְ (1)Alternate translation: [When you are out of prison and everything is going well for you, remember that I was here with you] or [Also, when you get out of prison and your life is good, remember how well I served you]
then please show kindness to me
Quote: וְעָשִֽׂיתָ־נָּ֥א עִמָּדִ֖י חָ֑סֶד (1)See how you translated “showed kindness to” in Gen 39:21. It may be necessary to translate this phrase in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [and please be gracious to me] or [and please do me a favor]
and mention me to Pharaoh
Quote: וְהִזְכַּרְתַּ֨נִי֙ אֶל־פַּרְעֹ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics
Make sure that the way Joseph refers to King Pharaoh sounds respectful in your translation. Alternate translation: [and tell King Pharaoh about me and how I was falsely accused]
and get me out from this house
Quote: וְהוֹצֵאתַ֖נִי מִן־הַבַּ֥יִת הַזֶּֽה (1)Alternate translation: [so that I can get out of this prison] or [so that he frees me from this prison]
Genesis 40:15
For indeed, I was stolen
Quote: כִּֽי־גֻנֹּ֣ב גֻּנַּ֔בְתִּי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language to emphasize Joseph. Alternate translation: [Surely I was taken by force]
from the land of the Hebrews
Quote: מֵאֶ֖רֶץ הָעִבְרִ֑ים (1)The Hebrew people were the descendants of Abraham (See: note at Gen 14:13), and Joseph’s people were known as Hebrews in Egypt (Gen 39:14, 17). Their land, which God gave them, was the land of Canaan (Gen 13:12, 14-15; 17:8, 23:19; 37:1). Some of that information could be put in a footnote. Alternate translation: [from the land where the Hebrew people live]
And also here
Quote: וְגַם־פֹּה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Alternate translation: [And while I have been here in Egypt]
I did not do anything
Quote: לֹא־עָשִׂ֣יתִֽי מְא֔וּמָה (1)Alternate translation: [I have not done anything wrong]
that they should put me in the pit
Quote: כִּֽי־שָׂמ֥וּ אֹתִ֖י בַּבּֽוֹר (1)Alternate translation: [to be put into this prison] or [to deserve being in a prison]
Genesis 40:16
And the chief of the bakers saw that he interpreted favorably
Quote: וַיַּ֥רְא שַׂר־הָאֹפִ֖ים כִּ֣י ט֣וֹב פָּתָ֑ר (1)See how you translated a related word (“interpreter”) in verse 8. Alternate translation: [When the head baker heard Joseph explain that dream in a positive way] or [When the head baker heard the positive interpretation that Joseph gave for the first dream]
so he said to Joseph
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אֶל־יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [he said to him]
I also {was} in my dream, and behold
Quote: אַף־אֲנִי֙ בַּחֲלוֹמִ֔י וְהִנֵּ֗ה (1)Alternate translation: [I also had a dream, and in it there were]
there were} three baskets of white bread
Quote: שְׁלֹשָׁ֛ה סַלֵּ֥י חֹרִ֖י (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “three baskets full of white/fine bread/cakes” or “three bread baskets” or (2) “three white/wicker baskets.” These baskets were open on top and were probably woven out of flexible strips of cane or willow branches.
on my head
Quote: עַל־רֹאשִֽׁי (1)These baskets would have been carried on the head, each one above the other. Alternate translation: [stacked on top of each other on my head]
Genesis 40:17
And in the top basket {were} all {kinds} of
Quote: וּבַסַּ֣ל הָֽעֶלְי֔וֹן מִכֹּ֛ל (1)Alternate translation: [The top basket was full of]
all {kinds} of food for Pharaoh, baker’s goods
Quote: מִכֹּ֛ל מַאֲכַ֥ל פַּרְעֹ֖ה מַעֲשֵׂ֣ה אֹפֶ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-honorifics
Make sure that the way the chief baker refers to King Pharaoh sounds respectful in your translation. Alternate translation: [all kinds of baked goods for King Pharaoh to eat] or [many kinds of special bread and cakes that had been made for King Pharaoh to eat]
but the birds were eating them out of the basket on my head
Quote: וְהָע֗וֹף אֹכֵ֥ל אֹתָ֛ם מִן־הַסַּ֖ל מֵעַ֥ל רֹאשִֽׁי (1)Alternate translation: [but some birds were eating everything up from the basket] or [but instead, some birds came and devoured all the food in the basket on my head]
Genesis 40:18
Then Joseph responded and said
Quote: וַיַּ֤עַן יוֹסֵף֙ וַיֹּ֔אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Joseph told the baker]
This {is} its interpretation
Quote: זֶ֖ה פִּתְרֹנ֑וֹ (1)See how you translated this in verse 12. Alternate translation: [This is the meaning of your dream:] or [Here is what your dream means:]
The three baskets {are} three days
Quote: שְׁלֹ֨שֶׁת֙ הַסַּלִּ֔ים שְׁלֹ֥שֶׁת יָמִ֖ים (1)See how you translated a similar sentence in verse 12. Alternate translation: [The three baskets symbolize three days]
Genesis 40:19
Within three days
Quote: בְּע֣וֹד ׀ שְׁלֹ֣שֶׁת יָמִ֗ים (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 13. Alternate translation: [Three days from now]
Pharaoh
Quote: פַרְעֹ֤ה (1)Alternate translation: [the king]
will lift up your head from you
Quote: יִשָּׂ֨א & אֶת־רֹֽאשְׁךָ֙ מֵֽעָלֶ֔יךָ (1)This phrase seems to have a literal meaning here (of having the baker beheaded) in contrast to the meaning of lift up your head in verse 13 (where it means to summon from a lowly or shameful place). Make sure your translation of this phrase is accurate and clear in both contexts. Alternate translation: [will have his soldiers cut off your head] or [will have you beheaded]
and hang you on a tree
Quote: וְתָלָ֥ה אוֹתְךָ֖ עַל־עֵ֑ץ (1)Alternate translation: [and hang your body on a stake]
and the birds will eat your flesh from you
Quote: וְאָכַ֥ל הָע֛וֹף אֶת־בְּשָׂרְךָ֖ מֵעָלֶֽיךָ (1)These were birds such as vultures, buzzards, or condors, which eat carrion (dead animals); these were not birds that eat seeds or hunt live prey. You could use the name of a type of bird that is well-known in your language area. See how you translated “eating” in verse 17. Alternate translation: [and birds will eat all your flesh off your bones]
Genesis 40:20
Then it happened on the third day, the day Pharaoh was born
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י ׀ בַּיּ֣וֹם הַשְּׁלִישִׁ֗י י֚וֹם הֻלֶּ֣דֶת אֶת־פַּרְעֹ֔ה (1)The phrase Then it happened introduces and emphasizes a set of important events. Do what is natural in your language.
that he made a feast for all his servants
Quote: וַיַּ֥עַשׂ מִשְׁתֶּ֖ה לְכָל־עֲבָדָ֑יו (1)See how you translated feast or “banquet” in Gen 21:8. Alternate translation: [he held a banquet for all of his officials to attend] or [he invited all his officials to attend a birthday feast]
And he lifted up the head of the chief of the cupbearers and the head of the chief of the bakers
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֞א אֶת־רֹ֣אשׁ ׀ שַׂ֣ר הַמַּשְׁקִ֗ים וְאֶת־רֹ֛אשׁ שַׂ֥ר הָאֹפִ֖ים (1)See how you translated similar clauses in verses 3 (See: note), 13, and 19, where Pharaoh had his soldiers do something. Also see how you translated “lifted up your head” in verse 13, where it has a similar meaning. Alternate translation: [During the feast he had soldiers bring his chief wine-server and chief baker out of prison to the banquet]
in the presence of his servants
Quote: בְּת֥וֹךְ עֲבָדָֽיו (1)Alternate translation: [in front of all his other officials] or [where all his other officers were]
Genesis 40:21
Then he restored
Quote: וַיָּ֛שֶׁב (1)See how you translated “restore … to … position” in verse 13. Alternate translation: [Then he reappointed]
the chief of the cupbearers to his position
Quote: אֶת־שַׂ֥ר הַמַּשְׁקִ֖ים עַל־מַשְׁקֵ֑הוּ (1)Alternate translation: [the chief wine-server to his previous work]
and he put the cup into the hand of Pharaoh
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֥ן הַכּ֖וֹס עַל־כַּ֥ף פַּרְעֹֽה (1)See how you translated a similar clause in verse 13. Alternate translation: [so that once again he served wine to him] or [so that once again he had the duty of serving him his cup of wine]
Genesis 40:22
but the chief of the bakers he hanged
Quote: וְאֵ֛ת שַׂ֥ר הָאֹפִ֖ים תָּלָ֑ה (1)It is implied here that the baker was beheaded before his body was impaled on a stake (verse 19). Also, notice that the chief of the bakers is at the beginning of this clause in the Hebrew text to emphasize him and contrast him with what happened to the chief cupbearer. Do what is natural in your language. See how you translated “hang … on a tree” in verse 19. Alternate translation: [But as for the chief baker, Pharaoh had him executed and hanged on a tree] or [But Pharaoh had his soldiers behead the head baker and impale his body on a pole]
just as Joseph had interpreted for them
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר פָּתַ֛ר לָהֶ֖ם יוֹסֵֽף (1)Alternate translation: [Everything happened exactly the way Joseph had interpreted their dreams to them] or [which was exactly what Joseph had said would happen]
Genesis 40:23
However, the chief of the cupbearers did not remember Joseph but forgot him
Quote: וְלֹֽא־זָכַ֧ר שַֽׂר־הַמַּשְׁקִ֛ים אֶת־יוֹסֵ֖ף וַיִּשְׁכָּחֵֽהוּ (1)Alternate translation: [But the chief cupbearer did not remember to tell Pharaoh about Joseph, but instead, he forgot about him] or [… completely forgot about Joseph and did not remember to tell Pharaoh about him]
Genesis 41
Genesis 41:1
Then it happened {at} the end of two years of days
Quote: וַיְהִ֕י מִקֵּ֖ץ שְׁנָתַ֣יִם יָמִ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [After two full years had passed] or [Two complete years later]
that Pharaoh was dreaming and behold, he was standing
Quote: וּפַרְעֹ֣ה חֹלֵ֔ם וְהִנֵּ֖ה עֹמֵ֥ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
See how you translated Pharaoh in Gen 40:2. Alternate translation: [King Pharaoh dreamed that he was standing]
beside the river
Quote: עַל־הַיְאֹֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This phrase usually refers to the Nile River, which was the most important river in Egypt and was so well known by everyone there that it was referred to as the river. See how you translated a different Hebrew word for river in Gen 36:37.
Genesis 41:2
Then behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֣ה (1)Alternate translation: [Then suddenly] or [Then he saw that]
from the river came up seven cows, fine-looking and fat-fleshed
Quote: מִן־הַיְאֹ֗ר עֹלֹת֙ שֶׁ֣בַע פָּר֔וֹת יְפ֥וֹת מַרְאֶ֖ה וּבְרִיאֹ֣ת בָּשָׂ֑ר (1)Make sure your translation does not sound like the cows rose up out of the water into the air. Also see how you translated cows in Gen 32:15. Alternate translation: [seven cows that were healthy-looking and well-fed came up out of the river onto the bank] or [seven healthy-looking, well-fed cows came up out of the river onto the bank]
and they grazed among the reeds
Quote: וַתִּרְעֶ֖ינָה בָּאָֽחוּ (1)Alternate translation: [and started grazing on the grass that was there] or [and started eating the marsh grass beside the river]
Genesis 41:3
Then behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֞ה (1)Alternate translation: [Then suddenly] or [Then he saw that]
seven other cows came up after them from the river, ugly-looking and thin-fleshed
Quote: שֶׁ֧בַע פָּר֣וֹת אֲחֵר֗וֹת עֹל֤וֹת אַחֲרֵיהֶן֙ מִן־הַיְאֹ֔ר רָע֥וֹת מַרְאֶ֖ה וְדַקּ֣וֹת בָּשָׂ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Alternate translation: [seven cows that were sickly-looking and skinny walked up out of the river] or [seven sickly-looking, skinny cows came up out of the river]
and they stood beside the {other} cows
Quote: וַֽתַּעֲמֹ֛דְנָה אֵ֥צֶל הַפָּר֖וֹת (1)Alternate translation: [and stood next to the healthy cows]
on the bank of the river
Quote: עַל־שְׂפַ֥ת הַיְאֹֽר (1)Consider again how you refer to the river in verses 1-3. If you refer to it as “the Nile River” in verse 1, it may be more natural to refer to it as the river after that. Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 41:4
Then the ugly-looking and thin-fleshed cows ate
Quote: וַתֹּאכַ֣לְנָה הַפָּר֗וֹת רָע֤וֹת הַמַּרְאֶה֙ וְדַקֹּ֣ת הַבָּשָׂ֔ר (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 3. Alternate translation: [Then the sickly-looking, skinny cows devoured] or [Then the cows that were sickly-looking and scrawny ate down]
the seven fine-looking and fat cows
Quote: אֵ֚ת שֶׁ֣בַע הַפָּר֔וֹת יְפֹ֥ת הַמַּרְאֶ֖ה וְהַבְּרִיאֹ֑ת (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 2. Alternate translation: [the seven healthy-looking, well-fed cows] or [the seven cows that were healthy-looking and fat]
and Pharaoh woke up
Quote: וַיִּיקַ֖ץ פַּרְעֹֽה (1)Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Pharaoh at each point/occurrence in this chapter. Alternate translation: [Just then King Pharaoh woke up] or [After that, the king woke up]
Genesis 41:5
Then he fell asleep
Quote: וַיִּישָׁ֕ן (1)Alternate translation: [Then Pharaoh] or [Then the king]
Then he fell asleep
Quote: וַיִּישָׁ֕ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Alternate translation: [Then Pharaoh went to sleep again] or [The the king went back to sleep]
and dreamed a second {time
Quote: וַֽיַּחֲלֹ֖ם שֵׁנִ֑ית (1)Alternate translation: [and started dreaming again]
And behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֣ה (1)Alternate translation: [In this dream there were]
seven heads of grain came up on one stalk, fat and good
Quote: שֶׁ֣בַע שִׁבֳּלִ֗ים עֹל֛וֹת בְּקָנֶ֥ה אֶחָ֖ד בְּרִיא֥וֹת וְטֹבֽוֹת (1)The phrase heads of grain is one word in the Hebrew text. Consider whether it is better in your language to use a word or phrase to translate this. Alternate translation: [seven big beautiful heads of grain growing on the same stem]
Genesis 41:6
Then behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּה֙ (1)Alternate translation: [Then suddenly] or [Next he saw that]
seven heads of grain, thin and scorched {by} the east wind
Quote: שֶׁ֣בַע שִׁבֳּלִ֔ים דַּקּ֖וֹת וּשְׁדוּפֹ֣ת קָדִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This wind was from the desert in the east, so it was hot and dry. Alternate translation: [seven shriveled heads of grain that were dried out by the hot east wind] or [seven shriveled heads of grain that the hot east wind had dried out]
sprouted
Quote: צֹמְח֖וֹת (1)Alternate translation: [grew up] or [were growing]
after them
Quote: אַחֲרֵיהֶֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Consider whether it is better in your language to refer to the first heads here with a pronoun (them) or a noun phrase. Alternate translation: [next to them on the same stalk] or [on the same stalk beside the well-formed heads]
Genesis 41:7
Then the thin heads of grain swallowed up
Quote: וַתִּבְלַ֨עְנָה֙ הַשִּׁבֳּלִ֣ים הַדַּקּ֔וֹת (1)See how you translated thin in verse 6 and heads of grain in verses 5-6. Alternate translation: [Next, the shriveled heads of grain devoured] or [... ate up]
the seven fat and full heads
Quote: אֵ֚ת שֶׁ֣בַע הַֽשִּׁבֳּלִ֔ים הַבְּרִיא֖וֹת וְהַמְּלֵא֑וֹת (1)The word full here describes heads of grain that have many seeds in them. See how you translated fat in verse 5. Alternate translation: [the seven plump, well-formed heads]
Then Pharaoh woke up
Quote: וַיִּיקַ֥ץ פַּרְעֹ֖ה (1)See how you translated this clause in verse 4. Alternate translation: [Just then Pharaoh woke up] or [After that, Pharaoh woke up]
and behold, {it was} a dream
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֥ה חֲלֽוֹם (1)Alternate translation: [and suddenly knew that he had been dreaming]
Genesis 41:8
Then it happened in the morning
Quote: וַיְהִ֤י בַבֹּ֨קֶר֙ (1)The phrase Then it happened introduces and emphasizes an important event. It also increases suspense so that the audience wonders what the outcome will be. Many English translations do not include this phrase, possibly for reasons of naturalness. Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [In the morning]
that his spirit was agitated
Quote: וַתִּפָּ֣עֶם רוּח֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [Pharaoh felt upset about the dreams]
so he sent and called for
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלַ֗ח וַיִּקְרָ֛א (1)Alternate translation: [so he sent servants to summon] or [so he had messengers summon]
all the magicians of Egypt and all its wise men
Quote: אֶת־כָּל־חַרְטֻמֵּ֥י מִצְרַ֖יִם וְאֶת־כָּל־חֲכָמֶ֑יהָ (1)Magicians were some of the wise men whom Pharaoh regularly consulted for advice. They had power from demons to do miracles (Exodus 7:11, 22; 8:7) and to communicate with the spirits of people who had died. They may have also been astrologers or Egyptian priests who were skilled in sacred writings. Some of that information could be put in a footnote. Alternate translation: [all the magicians and other wise men in the country of Egypt to come to him]
Then Pharaoh told his dreams to them
Quote: וַיְסַפֵּ֨ר פַּרְעֹ֤ה לָהֶם֙ אֶת־חֲלֹמ֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [When they arrived, Pharaoh told them what he had dreamed] or [Then he related to them what he had seen in his dreams]
but no one
Quote: וְאֵין (1)Alternate translation: [but none of those men]
could interpret them for Pharaoh
Quote: פּוֹתֵ֥ר אוֹתָ֖ם לְפַרְעֹֽה (1)Alternate translation: [could tell him what the dreams meant]
Genesis 41:9
the chief of the cupbearers
Quote: שַׂ֣ר הַמַּשְׁקִ֔ים (1)Consider again how you translated chief of the cupbearers and “cupbearer” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 40:1-2, 5, 9, 13, 20-21, 23; 41:9. Alternate translation: [But the head wine-server]
Then the chief of the cupbearers spoke with Pharaoh, saying
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּר֙ שַׂ֣ר הַמַּשְׁקִ֔ים אֶת־פַּרְעֹ֖ה לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Consider again how you translated chief of the cupbearers and “cupbearer” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 40:1-2, 5, 9, 13, 20-21, 23; 41:9. Alternate translation: [But the head wine-server spoke up and said to Pharaoh] or [But the head wine-server said to Pharaoh]
Today I remember
Quote: אֲנִ֖י מַזְכִּ֥יר הַיּֽוֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
For many languages, it is necessary to use a respectful title to address a person of high status like Pharaoh. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Your Majesty I now remember]
my offenses
Quote: אֶת־חֲטָאַ֕י (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “the time when I offended/displeased/wronged you.” or (2) “something important I failed/forgot to do.” The second interpretation refers to the cupbearer forgetting to tell Pharaoh about Joseph. Alternate translation: [my sins]
Genesis 41:10
Pharaoh broke out in anger against
Quote: פַּרְעֹ֖ה קָצַ֣ף עַל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The events in verses 10-13 had happened two years earlier (verse 1); chapter 40 gives the details about those events. See how you translated the idiom broke out in anger against in Gen 40:2. Alternate translation: [Some time ago, King Pharaoh, you were very angry at]
his servants
Quote: עֲבָדָ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
In verses 10 and 13, the cupbearer uses third person (“Pharaoh … his … he…”) to show respect for Pharaoh. For some languages, it is confusing to do that, so second person (“you … your …you …”) must be used instead. Some languages have an honorific such as “your Majesty/Honor” that could be used occasionally in these verses instead of third person. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [his officers]
and he put me in custody {in} the house of the chief of the guards, me and the chief of the bakers
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֨ן אֹתִ֜י בְּמִשְׁמַ֗ר בֵּ֚ית שַׂ֣ר הַטַּבָּחִ֔ים אֹתִ֕י וְאֵ֖ת שַׂ֥ר הָאֹפִֽים (1)See how you translated “put … in custody in the house of the chief of the guards” in Gen 40:3. Also consider again how you translated chief of the bakers and “baker” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 40:1-2, 4-5, 16-17, 20, 22; 41:10, 13. Alternate translation: [and he put the head baker and me in the prison that is in the house of the captain of the guards]
Genesis 41:11
And we dreamed a dream in the same night, he and I
Quote: וַנַּֽחַלְמָ֥ה חֲל֛וֹם בְּלַ֥יְלָה אֶחָ֖ד אֲנִ֣י וָה֑וּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
See how you translated a similar sentence in Gen 40:5. In verses 11-13, the pronouns we and us exclude Pharaoh. Alternate translation: [One time while we were there, we each dreamed a dream during the same night]
each of us dreamed according to the interpretation of his dream
Quote: אִ֛ישׁ כְּפִתְר֥וֹן חֲלֹמ֖וֹ חָלָֽמְנוּ (1)Consider again how you translated interpretation in Gen 40:5, 8, 12, 18; 41:11 and the related verb “interpret” in Gen 40:16, 22. Alternate translation: [and each of our dreams had its own meaning]
Genesis 41:12
Now there with us {was} a young Hebrew man
Quote: וְשָׁ֨ם אִתָּ֜נוּ נַ֣עַר עִבְרִ֗י (1)Translate “young … man” in a way that fits with the fact that Joseph was 30 years old (verse 46) and was not yet married.
a servant for the chief of the guards
Quote: עֶ֚בֶד לְשַׂ֣ר הַטַּבָּחִ֔ים (1)Consider again how you translated chief of the guards in the book of Genesis. See Gen 37:36; 39:1; 40:3-4; 41:10, 12. Alternate translation: [who was a servant for the captain of the guards]
And we told {our dreams} to him
Quote: וַנְּ֨סַפֶּר־ל֔וֹ (1)Consider again how you translated told in the book of Genesis. See Gen 24:66; 29:13; 37:9-10; 40:8-9; 41:8, 12. Alternate translation: [After we described our dreams to him]
and he interpreted our dreams for us
Quote: וַיִּפְתָּר־לָ֖נוּ אֶת־חֲלֹמֹתֵ֑ינוּ (1)Alternate translation: [he told us what they meant]
He interpreted {for} each according to his dream
Quote: אִ֥ישׁ כַּחֲלֹמ֖וֹ פָּתָֽר (1)Alternate translation: [He told each of us the meaning of our dreams]
Genesis 41:13
And it happened, just as he interpreted for us, so it happened
Quote: וַיְהִ֛י כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר פָּֽתַר־לָ֖נוּ כֵּ֣ן הָיָ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [And sure enough, everything happened exactly the way he had interpreted the dreams to us:]
me he restored to my position
Quote: אֹתִ֛י הֵשִׁ֥יב עַל־כַּנִּ֖י (1)See how you translated “restored to … position” in Gen 40:21. Alternate translation: [you reinstated me to my previous work as your cupbearer]
and him he hanged
Quote: וְאֹת֥וֹ תָלָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Consider again whether you referred to Pharaoh in third person (he) or second person (“you”) in verses 10 and 13. Also see how you translated “hanged/impaled on a tree/pole” in Gen 40:22. Alternate translation: [but you had your soldiers execute the baker and hang his body on a pole] or [but you had your soldiers execute the baker]
Genesis 41:14
Then Pharaoh sent and called for Joseph
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלַ֤ח פַּרְעֹה֙ וַיִּקְרָ֣א אֶת־יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)See how you translated sent and called for in verse 8. Alternate translation: [Immediately Pharaoh sent servants to summon Joseph] or [When Pharaoh heard that, immediately he had messengers summon Joseph]
So they quickly brought him from the pit
Quote: וַיְרִיצֻ֖הוּ מִן־הַבּ֑וֹר (1)See how you translated pit in Gen 40:15. Alternate translation: [So they hurriedly got Joseph out of the dungeon] or [So they went right away and got …]
Then he shaved and changed his clothes
Quote: וַיְגַלַּח֙ וַיְחַלֵּ֣ף שִׂמְלֹתָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Since Joseph lived in Egypt and Egyptian men kept their heads and faces clean-shaven, Joseph probably also shaved his head and his face. Consider whether or not it is best in your language to make this implied information explicit in your translation. Alternate translation: [Then he shaved his head and face, changed into suitable clothes and] or [Then after he shaved his head and face and changed into clean clothing, he]
and came to Pharaoh
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֖א אֶל־פַּרְעֹֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
Your choice of came versus “went” in this context depends on whose perspective you take: came reflects things from Pharaoh’s point of view, and “went” reflects things from Joseph’s point of view. Do what is most natural in your language. Alternate translation: [came before Pharaoh]
Genesis 41:15
Then Pharaoh said to Joseph
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר פַּרְעֹה֙ אֶל־יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then Pharaoh told him]
but no one could interpret it
Quote: וּפֹתֵ֖ר אֵ֣ין אֹת֑וֹ (1)See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 40:8.
But I heard about you, saying
Quote: וַאֲנִ֗י שָׁמַ֤עְתִּי עָלֶ֨יךָ֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)Alternate translation: [But I was told]
that} you hear a dream {and are able} to interpret it
Quote: תִּשְׁמַ֥ע חֲל֖וֹם לִפְתֹּ֥ר אֹתֽוֹ (1)Consider again how you translated interpret and “interpreter” throughout the book of Genesis. See Gen 40:8, 16, 22; 41:8, 12, 13, 15, 16. Alternate translation: [that when you hear a dream, you are able to interpret what it means] or [that when someone tells you a dream, you are able to interpret its meaning]
Genesis 41:16
And Joseph responded to Pharaoh, saying
Quote: וַיַּ֨עַן יוֹסֵ֧ף אֶת־פַּרְעֹ֛ה לֵאמֹ֖ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Joseph replied to Pharaoh]
It is} not in me
Quote: בִּלְעָדָ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
Make sure your translation of Joseph’s response sounds polite. See what you did in verse 9. Alternate translation: [Your Majesty, I cannot do that by myself]
God will answer
Quote: אֱלֹהִ֕ים יַעֲנֶ֖ה (1)Alternate translation: [but God will interpret your dream]
with Pharaoh’s peace
Quote: אֶת־שְׁל֥וֹם פַּרְעֹֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to use Pharaoh’s name at the beginning of this quote (instead of here) and say, “King Pharaoh, I do not have that ability…” Alternate translation: [for your well-being King Pharaoh] or [so that you, King Pharaoh, will have peace in your spirit]
Genesis 41:17
Then Pharaoh spoke to Joseph
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר פַּרְעֹ֖ה אֶל־יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [So Pharaoh told him]
In my dream, behold, I was standing
Quote: בַּחֲלֹמִ֕י הִנְנִ֥י עֹמֵ֖ד (1)Alternate translation: [I dreamed that I was standing]
on the bank of the river
Quote: עַל־שְׂפַ֥ת הַיְאֹֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See how you translated “the Nile River” in verse 1. Since this is the first time that Pharaoh mentions the river to Joseph, consider whether this is a good place in your translation to make it explicit again that this is the Nile River. Alternate translation: [on the bank of the Nile River]
Genesis 41:18
Then behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֣ה (1)Compare how you translated verse 2, which is similar but not identical to verse 18. Alternate translation: [Then I saw that]
from the river came up seven cows, fat-fleshed and of fine form
Quote: מִן־הַיְאֹ֗ר עֹלֹת֙ שֶׁ֣בַע פָּר֔וֹת בְּרִיא֥וֹת בָּשָׂ֖ר וִיפֹ֣ת תֹּ֑אַר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Alternate translation: [seven cows that were fat and healthy-looking came up out of the river onto the bank] or [seven well-fed, healthy-looking cows came up out of the river onto the bank]
and they grazed among the reeds
Quote: וַתִּרְעֶ֖ינָה בָּאָֽחוּ (1)Alternate translation: [and started grazing on]
among the reeds
Quote: בָּאָֽחוּ (1)Alternate translation: [the plants that were there] or [the tall grass beside the river]
Genesis 41:19
Then behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֞ה (1)See how you translated verse 3, which is similar to the first half of verse 19. Alternate translation: [Then suddenly] or [Next I saw that]
seven other cows came up after them
Quote: שֶֽׁבַע־פָּר֤וֹת אֲחֵרוֹת֙ עֹל֣וֹת אַחֲרֵיהֶ֔ן (1)Alternate translation: [seven other cows came up out of the river behind the first cows;]
poor and very ugly of form and thin-fleshed
Quote: דַּלּ֨וֹת וְרָע֥וֹת תֹּ֛אַר מְאֹ֖ד וְרַקּ֣וֹת בָּשָׂ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to put this information earlier in this sentence and say, “Then behold, seven poor/weak, very sickly-looking, scrawny cows came up out of the river behind the first cows/ones.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [they were in horrible condition, very sickly-looking and scrawny]
I have not seen
Quote: לֹֽא־רָאִ֧יתִי (1)Alternate translation: [In fact, I have not seen]
cows} as ugly as those
Quote: כָהֵ֛נָּה & לָרֹֽעַ (1)Alternate translation: [cows in such bad condition]
in all the land of Egypt
Quote: בְּכָל־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרַ֖יִם (1)Alternate translation: [in the whole country of Egypt!] or [anywhere in the country of Egypt!]
Genesis 41:20
Then the thin and ugly cows ate
Quote: וַתֹּאכַ֨לְנָה֙ הַפָּר֔וֹת הָרַקּ֖וֹת וְהָרָע֑וֹת (1)See how you translated ate in verse 4. Alternate translation: [Then the skinny, unhealthy cows devoured] or [Then the cows that were scrawny and sickly swallowed up]
the first seven fat cows
Quote: אֵ֣ת שֶׁ֧בַע הַפָּר֛וֹת הָרִאשֹׁנ֖וֹת הַבְּרִיאֹֽת (1)See how you translated fat or “fat-fleshed” in verses 2, 4, 18 and 20. Alternate translation: [the seven well-fed cows]
Genesis 41:21
So they went into their bellies, but it could not be known
Quote: וַתָּבֹ֣אנָה אֶל־קִרְבֶּ֗נָה וְלֹ֤א נוֹדַע֙ (1)Alternate translation: [But even after they had eaten them, no one would ever know] or [But although the scrawny cows had swallowed the fat ones, it could not be seen]
that they had gone into their bellies
Quote: כִּי־בָ֣אוּ אֶל־קִרְבֶּ֔נָה (1)Alternate translation: [that they had eaten them]
and their appearance {was} just as ugly as at the beginning
Quote: וּמַרְאֵיהֶ֣ן רַ֔ע כַּאֲשֶׁ֖ר בַּתְּחִלָּ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [because they still looked just as scrawny as they had before]
Then I woke up
Quote: וָאִיקָֽץ (1)Alternate translation: [At that point, I woke up]
Genesis 41:22
Then I saw in my dream, and behold
Quote: וָאֵ֖רֶא בַּחֲלֹמִ֑י וְהִנֵּ֣ה (1)Alternate translation: [Then I fell asleep again and continued dreaming. This time I saw that there were] or [Then I went back to sleep and had another dream. In this dream there were]
seven heads of grain came up on one stalk, full and good
Quote: שֶׁ֣בַע שִׁבֳּלִ֗ים עֹלֹ֛ת בְּקָנֶ֥ה אֶחָ֖ד מְלֵאֹ֥ת וְטֹבֽוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
See how you translated verse 5, which is similar to verse 22. Alternate translation: [seven heads of grain growing on a single plant. They were full of ripe grain kernels] or [seven full beautiful heads of grain growing on the same stalk]
Genesis 41:23
Then behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּה֙ (1)See how you translated verse 6, which is similar to verse 23. Alternate translation: [Next I saw that]
seven heads of grain, withered, thin {and} scorched {by} the east wind
Quote: שֶׁ֣בַע שִׁבֳּלִ֔ים צְנֻמ֥וֹת דַּקּ֖וֹת שְׁדֻפ֣וֹת קָדִ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [seven heads of grain that were small and withered because they were dried out by the hot east wind] or [seven small, withered heads of grain that the hot east wind had dried out]
sprouted
Quote: צֹמְח֖וֹת (1)Alternate translation: [grew up] or [were growing]
after them
Quote: אַחֲרֵיהֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to change the order of phrases in this verse and say, “Then seven small heads of grain sprouted on the same plant next to the first heads/ones. These had withered/wilted because the hot east/desert wind had dried them out.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [next to them on the same stalk] or [on the same stalk beside the first heads]
Genesis 41:24
Then the thin heads of grain swallowed up
Quote: וַתִּבְלַ֨עְןָ֙ הָשִׁבֳּלִ֣ים הַדַּקֹּ֔ת (1)See how you translated the first half of verse 7, which is similar to the first half of verse 24. Alternate translation: [Then the small heads of grain ate up] or [… swallowed down] or [… devoured]
the seven good heads of grain
Quote: אֵ֛ת שֶׁ֥בַע הַֽשִׁבֳּלִ֖ים הַטֹּב֑וֹת (1)See how you translated good in verses 5 and 22. Alternate translation: [the seven beautiful heads]
And I told {this} to the magicians
Quote: וָֽאֹמַר֙ אֶל־הַֽחַרְטֻמִּ֔ים (1)See how you translated magicians in verse 8. Alternate translation: [I told my dreams to my magicians]
but no one {could} explain {it} to me
Quote: וְאֵ֥ין מַגִּ֖יד לִֽי (1)See how you translated a different Hebrew word that means explain or “interpret” in verse 8. Alternate translation: [but they could not explain them for me]
Genesis 41:25
Then Joseph said to Pharaoh
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יוֹסֵף֙ אֶל־פַּרְעֹ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then Joseph responded to Pharaoh]
Pharaoh’s dreams {are} one
Quote: חֲל֥וֹם פַּרְעֹ֖ה אֶחָ֣ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
In verses 25, 28, 32-35, Joseph uses third person (“Pharaoh … his … he…”) to show respect for Pharaoh. For some languages, it is confusing to do that, so second person (“you … your… you …”) must be used instead. Some languages have an honorific such as “your Majesty/Honor” that could be used occasionally in these verses instead of third person. Do what is best in your language. Also see what you did in verses 10 and 13. Alternate translation: [Your Honor, both of your dreams mean the same thing]
What God is doing he has shown to Pharaoh
Quote: ה֑וּא אֵ֣ת אֲשֶׁ֧ר הָאֱלֹהִ֛ים עֹשֶׂ֖ה הִגִּ֥יד לְפַרְעֹֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
The Hebrew text emphasizes “what God is doing” by putting that phrase first in the sentence. Consider what is the most natural phrase order for this sentence in your language. Alternate translation: [Through them, God is showing to you what he will do] or [God has revealed to you, King Pharaoh, what he is planning to do]
Genesis 41:26
The seven good cows {are} seven years
Quote: שֶׁ֧בַע פָּרֹ֣ת הַטֹּבֹ֗ת שֶׁ֤בַע שָׁנִים֙ (1)Alternate translation: [The seven healthy cows in your dream symbolize seven years]
and the seven good heads of grain {are} seven years
Quote: וְשֶׁ֤בַע הַֽשִּׁבֳּלִים֙ הַטֹּבֹ֔ת שֶׁ֥בַע שָׁנִ֖ים (1)Alternate translation: [and the seven beautiful heads of grain symbolize the same seven years]
The dreams {are} one
Quote: חֲל֖וֹם אֶחָ֥ד (1)See how you translated dreams are one in verse 25. Alternate translation: [Both dreams have the same meaning]
Genesis 41:27
And the seven thin and ugly cows
Quote: וְשֶׁ֣בַע הַ֠פָּרוֹת הָֽרַקּ֨וֹת וְהָרָעֹ֜ת (1)See how you translated thin and ugly cows in verse 20, and how you translated thin in verse 19. Alternate translation: [The seven skinny and sickly cows]
that came up after them
Quote: הָעֹלֹ֣ת אַחֲרֵיהֶ֗ן (1)Alternate translation: [that came up out of the river behind the first cows]
are} seven years, and {so are} the seven thin heads of grain
Quote: שֶׁ֤בַע שָׁנִים֙ & וְשֶׁ֤בַע הַֽשִׁבֳּלִים֙ הָרֵק֔וֹת (1)See how you translated thin in verses 6 and 23, and consider again how you translated heads of grain in verses 5-7, 22-24, 26-27. Alternate translation: [symbolize a different seven years, and so do the seven small heads of grain]
scorched by the east wind
Quote: שְׁדֻפ֖וֹת הַקָּדִ֑ים (1)See how you translated this phrase in verses 6 and 23. Also consider again how you translated east in the book of Genesis; see Gen 2:8; 3:24; 10:30; 11:2; 12:8; 13:11; 14; 25:6; 28:14; 29:1, 41:6, 23, 27. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [that the hot east wind had dried up] or [that the desert wind from the east had dried up]
There will be seven years of famine
Quote: יִהְי֕וּ שֶׁ֖בַע שְׁנֵ֥י רָעָֽב (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. See how you translated this term in Gen 12:10 and 26:1. Alternate translation: [Both dreams mean that there will be seven years when food will be very scarce]
Genesis 41:28
That {is} the word that I have spoken to Pharaoh
Quote: ה֣וּא הַדָּבָ֔ר אֲשֶׁ֥ר דִּבַּ֖רְתִּי אֶל־פַּרְעֹ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Consider what is the best way to refer to Pharaoh here in your language. See what you did in verse 25. Alternate translation: [Your Honor, as I told you before]
What God is doing he has shown to Pharaoh
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֧ר הָאֱלֹהִ֛ים עֹשֶׂ֖ה הֶרְאָ֥ה אֶת־פַּרְעֹֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
See how you translated this clause in verse 25. Alternate translation: [God is showing to you what he will do] or [God has shown to you what he is about to do]
Genesis 41:29
of} great abundance
Quote: שָׂבָ֥ע גָּד֖וֹל (1)Alternate translation: [when crops are abundant] or [when everyone will have plenty of food to eat]
in all the land of Egypt
Quote: בְּכָל־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)Alternate translation: [throughout the whole land of Egypt]
Genesis 41:30
But seven years of famine will rise up after them
Quote: וְ֠קָמוּ שֶׁ֜בַע שְׁנֵ֤י רָעָב֙ אַחֲרֵיהֶ֔ן (1)See how you translated famine in verse 27. Alternate translation: [But after them there will be a famine that lasts seven years] or [But after those prosperous years, there will be seven years when food is very scarce]
so that all the abundance in the land of Egypt will be forgotten
Quote: וְנִשְׁכַּ֥ח כָּל־הַשָּׂבָ֖ע בְּאֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרָ֑יִם (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [So people in the country of Egypt will forget how good it was during the time when they had plenty of food]
and the famine will consume the land
Quote: וְכִלָּ֥ה הָרָעָ֖ב אֶת־הָאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The phrase the land here probably also includes the people who lived in that country. Alternate translation: [because the famine will destroy the land and the people] or [because the severe food shortage will ravage the land so that many people will starve]
Genesis 41:31
And the abundance in the land will not be remembered
Quote: וְלֹֽא־יִוָּדַ֤ע הַשָּׂבָע֙ בָּאָ֔רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
Verse 31 restates much of the content of verse 30, so keep that it mind as you translate the beginning of this verse. Alternate translation: [Indeed, there will be no evidence left that there were years when there was more than enough food]
because of that famine after it, because it {will be} very heavy
Quote: מִפְּנֵ֛י הָרָעָ֥ב הַה֖וּא אַחֲרֵי־כֵ֑ן כִּֽי־כָבֵ֥ד ה֖וּא מְאֹֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages, it clearer and more natural to put this clause near the beginning of this verse and say, “Yes, the famine that is coming will be so severe/terrible that people will completely forget about the time/years when food was abundant/plentiful in the land.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [because the famine that happens after that will be very oppressive] or [because the following years when food is scarce will be so terrible]
Genesis 41:32
And as for the repeating of the dream to Pharaoh twice, {it is} because
Quote: וְעַ֨ל הִשָּׁנ֧וֹת הַחֲל֛וֹם אֶל־פַּרְעֹ֖ה פַּעֲמָ֑יִם כִּֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Alternate translation: [The reason you had the same dream in two different ways is that]
the matter has been established by God
Quote: נָכ֤וֹן הַדָּבָר֙ מֵעִ֣ם הָאֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)Alternate translation: [God has firmly decided what he is going to do] or [God wants you to know that this will definitely happen]
and God will soon do it
Quote: וּמְמַהֵ֥ר הָאֱלֹהִ֖ים לַעֲשֹׂתֽוֹ (1)Alternate translation: [and he will cause it to happen very soon]
Genesis 41:33
And now let Pharaoh seek a man
Quote: וְעַתָּה֙ יֵרֶ֣א פַרְעֹ֔ה אִ֖ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Alternate translation: [So King Pharaoh, you should now look for a man] or [So now, your Highness, I recommend that you choose a man]
who is} discerning and wise
Quote: נָב֣וֹן וְחָכָ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [who is insightful and knows what to do] or [who is wise and can make good decisions]
and set him over
Quote: וִישִׁיתֵ֖הוּ עַל (1)Alternate translation: [and put him in charge of] or [and give him authority over]
the land of Egypt
Quote: אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the land in verse 30. Alternate translation: [the country of Egypt and its people]
Genesis 41:34
Let Pharaoh do {this}: Let him set supervisors
Quote: יַעֲשֶׂ֣ה פַרְעֹ֔ה וְיַפְקֵ֥ד פְּקִדִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Alternate translation: [King Pharaoh, I also recommend that you appoint regional administrators] or [Sir, you should also appoint …]
over the land
Quote: עַל־הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)Alternate translation: [to be in charge of different regions of the country] or [to manage different regions of the country]
and let him take a fifth
Quote: וְחִמֵּשׁ֙ (1)Consider whether or not it is more natural to begin a new sentence here in your language. Alternate translation: [and have them gather from the people one-fifth] or [Then command them to collect …]
of the land of Egypt
Quote: אֶת־אֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֔יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
In this context, “the land/country” refers to the crops that were growing in Egypt. Make sure that is clear in your translation. Alternate translation: [of all the grain that they harvest in the country of Egypt] or [of everything the land of Egypt produces]
in the seven years of abundance
Quote: בְּשֶׁ֖בַע שְׁנֵ֥י הַשָּׂבָֽע (1)See how you translated abundance in verses 29-31. Alternate translation: [during the seven years when crops are abundant] or [during the seven years when there will be more than enough crops]
Genesis 41:35
And they should gather
Quote: וְיִקְבְּצ֗וּ (1)Alternate translation: [Have them gather]
all the food of the good years that are coming
Quote: אֶת־כָּל־אֹ֨כֶל֙ הַשָּׁנִ֣ים הַטֹּבֹ֔ת הַבָּאֹ֖ת הָאֵ֑לֶּה (1)Alternate translation: [all that extra grain from the prosperous years that will come] or [all that extra food during the good years ahead when there will be plenty of food]
And they should store {that} grain
Quote: וְיִצְבְּרוּ־בָ֞ר (1)Alternate translation: [Have them stockpile that grain] or [Command them to store up that grain]
under Pharaoh’s hand
Quote: תַּ֧חַת יַד־פַּרְעֹ֛ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Consider again how you translated the use of the third person to address Pharaoh respectfully in verses 10, 13, 25, 32-35. Also, for some languages it may be better to put this phrase earlier and say, “Using your authority, King Pharaoh, have them stockpile that grain in storehouses...” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [with your authority, King Pharaoh]
for} food in the cities and guard {it
Quote: אֹ֥כֶל בֶּעָרִ֖ים וְשָׁמָֽרוּ (1)Alternate translation: [in the cities for food and have soldiers keep it safe]
Genesis 41:36
And the food should be in reserve
Quote: וְהָיָ֨ה הָאֹ֤כֶל לְפִקָּדוֹן֙ (1)Alternate translation: [That extra food should be kept in storage] or [That grain should stay in storage] or [They must continue to store that surplus grain]
for the land
Quote: לָאָ֔רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The phrase the land refers here to the people who live in the land of Egypt. Make sure that is clear in your translation. Alternate translation: [for the people of the land to eat] or [so that the people of the land have it to eat]
for the seven years of famine that will come
Quote: לְשֶׁ֨בַע֙ שְׁנֵ֣י הָרָעָ֔ב אֲשֶׁ֥ר תִּהְיֶ֖יןָ (1)Alternate translation: [during the seven years when food is very scarce]
on the land of Egypt
Quote: בְּאֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרָ֑יִם (1)Consider whether or not it is natural in your language to repeat “the land/country” in this sentence. Alternate translation: [in Egypt]
so that the land will not be cut off
Quote: וְלֹֽא־תִכָּרֵ֥ת הָאָ֖רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Make sure the way you translated “the people of/in the land/country” at the beginning of this verse fits with how you translate it here. It is helpful to read your translation aloud to make sure it is clear and natural. Alternate translation: [so that the people in the land] or [so that the people]
so that the land will not be cut off
Quote: וְלֹֽא־תִכָּרֵ֥ת הָאָ֖רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom cut off in Gen 9:11. It may be necessary to translate it differently here because of the different context. Alternate translation: [will not be destroyed by]
by the famine
Quote: בָּרָעָֽב (1)Alternate translation: [the severe food scarcity]
Genesis 41:37
And the word was good in the eyes of Pharaoh and in the eyes of all his servants
Quote: וַיִּיטַ֥ב הַדָּבָ֖ר בְּעֵינֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֑ה וּבְעֵינֵ֖י כָּל־עֲבָדָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom in the eyes of in Gen 34:18. Alternate translation: [What Joseph said seemed like a good plan to King Pharaoh and all his servants] or [King Pharaoh and all his servants agreed that what Joseph had proposed was good]
Genesis 41:38
Then Pharaoh said to his servants
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר פַּרְעֹ֖ה אֶל־עֲבָדָ֑יו (1)Alternate translation: [So Pharaoh said to his officials]
Can we find a man like this
Quote: הֲנִמְצָ֣א כָזֶ֔ה אִ֕ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Pharaoh uses a rhetorical question here to emphasize that no one is more qualified than Joseph. Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this quote using a question or a statement. Alternate translation: [It is obvious that we will never find a man as qualified as Joseph]
who {has} the Spirit of God in him
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֛ר ר֥וּחַ אֱלֹהִ֖ים בּֽוֹ (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “who has God’s Spirit in him” or “whom God’s Spirit guides” or (2) “who has a divine spirit in him” or “who has a spirit of the gods in him.” Most translations follow the first interpretation, since Joseph had just talked to Pharaoh about God (verses 16, 28, 32) and Pharaoh acknowledges God in verse 39.
Genesis 41:39
Then Pharaoh said to Joseph
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר פַּרְעֹה֙ אֶל־יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Alternate translation: [Then he turned to Joseph and said]
Since God has shown all this to you
Quote: אַחֲרֵ֨י הוֹדִ֧יעַ אֱלֹהִ֛ים אוֹתְךָ֖ אֶת־כָּל־זֹ֑את (1)Alternate translation: [God has revealed to you what he is going to do, so]
there is} no one {as} discerning and wise as you
Quote: אֵין־נָב֥וֹן וְחָכָ֖ם כָּמֽוֹךָ (1)See how you translated discerning and wise in verse 33. Alternate translation: [no one else is as insightful as you are and knows what to do in this situation] or [… or knows how to manage this situation wisely]
Genesis 41:40
You will be over my house
Quote: אַתָּה֙ תִּהְיֶ֣ה עַל־בֵּיתִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The phrase my house refers here to Pharaoh’s household and all the other people he rules as king. Alternate translation: [So I am putting you in charge of my household and my country] or [So I am giving you authority over the people in my palace and the rest of my country]
and all my people will kiss on your mouth
Quote: וְעַל־פִּ֖יךָ יִשַּׁ֣ק כָּל־עַמִּ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Consider whether you have a similar idiom in your language or if you need to say this without an idiom. Alternate translation: [so that all the people in my kingdom must do whatever you say] or [so that all the people I reign over will respect and obey whatever you tell them to do]
Only I {on} the throne will be greater than you
Quote: רַ֥ק הַכִּסֵּ֖א אֶגְדַּ֥ל מִמֶּֽךָּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
In this context, the throne refers to Pharaoh’s position as the king. Make sure that is clear in your translation. Alternate translation: [Only I who sit on the throne as king will have more authority than you] or [Only I who am king will …]
Genesis 41:41
Then Pharaoh said to Joseph
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר פַּרְעֹ֖ה אֶל־יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Some languages leave Joseph or even this entire quote margin implied here, since Pharaoh is still talking to the same person. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Pharaoh added]
See, I have put you over
Quote: רְאֵה֙ נָתַ֣תִּי אֹֽתְךָ֔ עַ֖ל (1)The word See emphasizes what Pharaoh says next. Alternate translation: [Look I now put you in charge of] or [I am now appointing you to be the supervisor over]
all the land of Egypt
Quote: כָּל־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)Alternate translation: [the whole land of Egypt]
Genesis 41:42
Then Pharaoh removed his signet ring from his hand
Quote: וַיָּ֨סַר פַּרְעֹ֤ה אֶת־טַבַּעְתּוֹ֙ מֵעַ֣ל יָד֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
The signet ring was the identification ring that the king used to seal official documents. See how you translated signet in Gen 38:18. Alternate translation: [Then Pharaoh took off his royal identification ring] or [Then Pharaoh took from his finger the ring that he used to mark letters]
and put it on Joseph’s hand
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֥ן אֹתָ֖הּ עַל־יַ֣ד יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
The signet ring showed that Joseph represented Pharaoh and had his complete authority.
And he dressed him {in} garments of fine linen
Quote: וַיַּלְבֵּ֤שׁ אֹתוֹ֙ בִּגְדֵי־שֵׁ֔שׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
The Hebrew word for fine linen refers to a special kind of white cloth that was woven out of flax and had a fine texture. Clothes made from linen were expensive and were worn by the king and high officials. If linen is not known in your language area, you could be more general and refer to expensive, high-quality clothes. Alternate translation: [He also had Joseph put on fine linen robes] or [He also gave Joseph high-quality robes to wear]
and put a gold chain on his neck
Quote: וַיָּ֛שֶׂם רְבִ֥ד הַזָּהָ֖ב עַל־צַוָּארֽוֹ (1)Alternate translation: [and put a collar made of gold around his neck] or [and put around his neck a necklace made of gold]
Genesis 41:43
in the second chariot that {belonged} to him
Quote: בְּמִרְכֶּ֤בֶת הַמִּשְׁנֶה֙ אֲשֶׁר־ל֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
A chariot is a cart with two or four wheels that was pulled by one or more horses. It was used as transportation and was especially used in battles. Translate this in a way that fits with this description. It may be helpful to include a picture of a chariot in your translation. Alternate translation: [in a royal horse-drawn cart as his second-in-command] or [in the horse-drawn cart that showed he was the second highest ruler in the country]
and they shouted before him
Quote: וַיִּקְרְא֥וּ לְפָנָ֖יו (1)Make sure the way you translate shouted does not sound angry. Rather they were calling out loudly enough for people to hear them. Alternate translation: [As he rode, heralds walked in the streets ahead of him calling out to everyone]
Bow down
Quote: אַבְרֵ֑ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could be: (1) a transliteration of an Egyptian word that means “Bow down in reverence/respect!” or “Make way for the king’s appointed one!” or “Welcome/Honor your new leader!” which is what people would be told to do to honor an important person; or (2) a combination of Hebrew words that means “This is the father of the king!”, which is similar to what Joseph says in Gen 45:8.
So he put him over
Quote: וְנָת֣וֹן אֹת֔וֹ עַ֖ל (1)See how you translated a similar sentence in verse 41. Alternate translation: [So Pharaoh put Joseph in charge of] or [In that way, Pharaoh officially installed Joseph to be the manager over]
all the land of Egypt
Quote: כָּל־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)Alternate translation: [the whole land of Egypt]
Genesis 41:44
I {am} Pharaoh
Quote: אֲנִ֣י פַרְעֹ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [I, Pharaoh, hereby decree that]
and without you a person will not lift his hand or his foot in all the land of Egypt
Quote: וּבִלְעָדֶ֗יךָ לֹֽא־יָרִ֨ים אִ֧ישׁ אֶת־יָד֛וֹ וְאֶת־רַגְל֖וֹ בְּכָל־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
The phrase “will not lift his hand or foot” is hyperbole (exaggeration) that is used to emphasize Joseph’s authority. Consider whether or not it is clear and natural to do that here in your language. Alternate translation: [no one throughout the entire country of Egypt may do anything unless you tell them to do it!] or [throughout the entire country of Egypt, everyone must only do what you tell them to do!]
Genesis 41:45
Then Pharaoh called Joseph’s name
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֨א פַרְעֹ֣ה שֵׁם־יוֹסֵף֮ (1)Alternate translation: [Then Pharaoh called Joseph by the Egyptian name]
and he gave to him Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera the priest of On, as a wife
Quote: וַיִּתֶּן־ל֣וֹ אֶת־אָֽסְנַ֗ת בַּת־פּ֥וֹטִי פֶ֛רַע כֹּהֵ֥ן אֹ֖ן לְאִשָּׁ֑ה (1)Potiphera was a pagan priest, and he led people in worshiping the Egyptians’ gods, not Yahweh. See how you translated priest in Gen 14:18. Alternate translation: [and he gave him a woman named Asenath to be his wife. She was the daughter of Potiphera, who was a priest at the temple at the city of On]
Then Joseph went out over the land of Egypt
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֥א יוֹסֵ֖ף עַל־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)Alternate translation: [Then Joseph started going around all over the land of Egypt] or [Then Joseph started his work and traveled throughout the land of Egypt]
Genesis 41:46
Now Joseph {was} a son of thirty years
Quote: וְיוֹסֵף֙ בֶּן־שְׁלֹשִׁ֣ים שָׁנָ֔ה (1)Consider what is the best way to begin this new paragraph in your language.
when he stood before
Quote: בְּעָמְד֕וֹ לִפְנֵ֖י (1)This phrase refers to when Joseph stood before Pharaoh and was commissioned to serve as the second-highest ruler in Egypt. Alternate translation: [when he had that audience with]
and passed through all the land of Egypt
Quote: וַֽיַּעְבֹ֖ר בְּכָל־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)Alternate translation: [and traveled throughout the entire country of Egypt doing his work] or [and began traveling from place to place throughout …]
Genesis 41:47
in the seven years of abundance
Quote: בְּשֶׁ֖בַע שְׁנֵ֣י הַשָּׂבָ֑ע (1)Compare how you translated seven years of abundance in verse 34. Alternate translation: [During the seven years when food was abundant] or [For seven years the harvests were plentiful and]
And … the land produced {grain} by the handfuls
Quote: וַתַּ֣עַשׂ הָאָ֔רֶץ & לִקְמָצִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The idiom by the handfuls refers here to large amounts of grain. Consider whether your language has a similar idiom you could use here. Alternate translation: [the land produced large amounts of grain] or [the people harvested large amounts of grain from the land]
Genesis 41:48
So he gathered
Quote: וַיִּקְבֹּ֞ץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
When the Bible says that a leader such as Joseph did something, it often means that he had it done by people under his authority. Decide whether you want to include this information in your translation or in a footnote. Alternate translation: [So Joseph told the supervisors under him to collect] or [So Joseph had his helpers gather]
all the food of the seven years that were in the land of Egypt
Quote: אֶת־כָּל־אֹ֣כֶל ׀ שֶׁ֣בַע שָׁנִ֗ים אֲשֶׁ֤ר הָיוּ֙ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֔יִם (1)See how you translated all the food in verse 35. Alternate translation: [all the extra food that was produced in the land of Egypt during those seven years] or [all the extra grain that people produced during those seven years in the land of Egypt]
and he put the food in the cities
Quote: וַיִּתֶּן־אֹ֖כֶל בֶּעָרִ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [and he had them store that grain in the cities]
The food of the fields that surrounded {each} city he put inside it
Quote: אֹ֧כֶל שְׂדֵה־הָעִ֛יר אֲשֶׁ֥ר סְבִיבֹתֶ֖יהָ נָתַ֥ן בְּתוֹכָֽהּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Consider what phrase order is best for this sentence in your language. Alternate translation: [The food that people had harvested from the fields, he had his supervisors stockpile in the nearby cities] or [In each city he had them store the food that people had harvested from the nearby fields]
Genesis 41:49
So Joseph stored up
Quote: וַיִּצְבֹּ֨ר יוֹסֵ֥ף (1)See how you translated “store/stockpile” in verse 35. Alternate translation: [Joseph had his helpers store up]
grain like the sand of the sea
Quote: בָּ֛ר כְּח֥וֹל הַיָּ֖ם (1)See how you translated “as the sand of the sea” in Gen 32:12 and a similar phrase in Gen 22:17. Alternate translation: [so much grain that it looked as plentiful as grains of sand beside the sea] or [… as plentiful as the grains of sand on the beach]
very much, until
Quote: הַרְבֵּ֣ה מְאֹ֑ד עַ֛ד כִּי (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [In fact, there was so much that] or [In fact, it was so plentiful that after a while]
he stopped measuring {it
Quote: חָדַ֥ל לִסְפֹּ֖ר (1)It was probably Joseph’s helpers who measured the grain and kept records of it. See how you handled this at the beginning of this verse. Alternate translation: [he had them stop keeping track of it] or [they had to stop writing down how much there was]
because it was without number
Quote: כִּי־אֵ֥ין מִסְפָּֽר (1)Alternate translation: [because there was so much that they could no longer record it]
Genesis 41:50
before the years of the famine came
Quote: בְּטֶ֥רֶם תָּב֖וֹא שְׁנַ֣ת הָרָעָ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
Consider what is the best way to change topics and begin this new paragraph in your language. Alternate translation: [Now it so happened that before the seven years of famine came]
And … two sons were born to Joseph, whom Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera, the priest of On, bore for him
Quote: וּלְיוֹסֵ֤ף יֻלַּד֙ שְׁנֵ֣י בָנִ֔ים & אֲשֶׁ֤ר יָֽלְדָה־לּוֹ֙ אָֽסְנַ֔ת בַּת־פּ֥וֹטִי פֶ֖רַע כֹּהֵ֥ן אֽוֹן (1)See how you translated Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera, the priest of On in verse 45. Alternate translation: [Joseph had two sons with his wife Asenath, a daughter of Potiphera, who was a priest in the city of On] or [Joseph and his wife Asenath had two sons. Remember that Asenath was a daughter of Potiphera, a priest in the city of On]
Genesis 41:51
And Joseph called the name of
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א יוֹסֵ֛ף אֶת־שֵׁ֥ם (1)See how you translated the idiom called the name of in Gen 21:3.
the firstborn {son
Quote: הַבְּכ֖וֹר (1)Alternate translation: [his first son]
Manasseh
Quote: מְנַשֶּׁ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
If you include the meaning of the name Manasseh in your translation or in a footnote, it should fit with the way you translate forget in the following clause.
because {he said}, “God has made me forget
Quote: כִּֽי־נַשַּׁ֤נִי אֱלֹהִים֙ (1)Your translation should not sound like Joseph had lost his memory of these things, rather God had blessed him so much that it helped him stop thinking about those things. Alternate translation: [… to stop thinking about]
all my toil and
Quote: אֶת־כָּל־עֲמָלִ֔י וְאֵ֖ת (1)Alternate translation: [all my hardships and about]
all of my father’s house
Quote: כָּל־בֵּ֥ית אָבִֽי (1)Alternate translation: [how much I have missed all of my family back home]
Genesis 41:52
And the name of the second {son} he called
Quote: וְאֵ֛ת שֵׁ֥ם הַשֵּׁנִ֖י קָרָ֣א (1)Alternate translation: [And Joseph named his second son]
Ephraim
Quote: אֶפְרָ֑יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
If you include the meaning of Ephraim’s name in your translation or in a footnote, it should fit with the way you translate fruitful in the following clause.
because {he said}, “God has made me fruitful
Quote: כִּֽי־הִפְרַ֥נִי אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Consider again how you translated the idiom fruitful in the book of Genesis. See Gen 17:6; 26:22; 41:52.
Genesis 41:53
Then the seven years of abundance that was … ended
Quote: וַתִּכְלֶ֕ינָה שֶׁ֖בַע שְׁנֵ֣י הַשָּׂבָ֑ע אֲשֶׁ֥ר הָיָ֖ה (1)See how you translated the seven years of abundance in verses 34 and 47, and a similar phrase in verse 29. Alternate translation: [Finally the seven years when food was abundant]
Then … ended
Quote: וַתִּכְלֶ֕ינָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is better to put this phrase earlier in the sentence and say, “Finally the seven years were over when food was plentiful in the country of Egypt. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [came to an end]
Genesis 41:54
and the seven years of famine started to come
Quote: וַתְּחִלֶּ֜ינָה שֶׁ֣בַע שְׁנֵ֤י הָרָעָב֙ לָב֔וֹא (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [Then the seven years of famine began]
just as Joseph had said
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֖ר אָמַ֣ר יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)Alternate translation: [just as Joseph had predicted would happen] or [which is exactly what Joseph had said would happen]
And there was famine in all the lands
Quote: וַיְהִ֤י רָעָב֙ בְּכָל־הָ֣אֲרָצ֔וֹת (1)Alternate translation: [The severe food shortage began to affect all countries]
but in all the land of Egypt
Quote: וּבְכָל־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרַ֖יִם (1)Alternate translation: [but everywhere in the land of Egypt] or [but throughout the entire land of Egypt]
there was bread
Quote: הָ֥יָה לָֽחֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
In this context, bread refers to all food in general. Alternate translation: [there was still plenty of food stored up]
Genesis 41:55
Then all the land of Egypt became famished
Quote: וַתִּרְעַב֙ כָּל־אֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֔יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The phrase all the land refers here to the people living in Egypt. Consider whether or not you need to make that explicit in your language. Alternate translation: [Then all the people in the land of Egypt began to suffer from the famine, so]
and the people cried to Pharaoh for the bread
Quote: וַיִּצְעַ֥ק הָעָ֛ם אֶל־פַּרְעֹ֖ה לַלָּ֑חֶם (1)Alternate translation: [they begged Pharaoh for food] or [they pleaded with Pharaoh to give them food]
So Pharaoh said to all the Egyptians
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר פַּרְעֹ֤ה לְכָל־מִצְרַ֨יִם֙ (1)Alternate translation: [So King Pharaoh told them] or [So he told them]
Go to Joseph
Quote: לְכ֣וּ אֶל־יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Alternate translation: [Go ask Joseph for food] or [You must go to Joseph and ask him for help]
Whatever he says to you, do {it
Quote: אֲשֶׁר־יֹאמַ֥ר לָכֶ֖ם תַּעֲשֽׂוּ (1)Consider whether or not it is best to begin a new sentence here in your language. Alternate translation: [and do whatever he tells you to do]
Genesis 41:56
And the famine was over all the face of the land, so … opened
Quote: וְהָרָעָ֣ב הָיָ֔ה עַ֖ל כָּל־פְּנֵ֣י הָאָ֑רֶץ וַיִּפְתַּ֨ח (1)Alternate translation: [Since the famine had spread throughout the whole country] or [Since the severe food shortage was affecting the entire country]
so Joseph opened
Quote: וַיִּפְתַּ֨ח יוֹסֵ֜ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See how you translated verses 48 and 49, where Joseph is said to do something that he had his helpers do. Alternate translation: [Joseph ordered the supervisors under him to open up]
all {the buildings} that {had grain} in them
Quote: אֶֽת־כָּל־אֲשֶׁ֤ר בָּהֶם֙ (1)Alternate translation: [all the storage barns where grain was being stored]
and sold {grain} to the Egyptians
Quote: וַיִּשְׁבֹּ֣ר לְמִצְרַ֔יִם (1)Alternate translation: [and they started selling the grain to the people of Egypt]
And the famine was severe
Quote: וַיֶּחֱזַ֥ק הָֽרָעָ֖ב (1)Alternate translation: [Then the famine kept getting more and more severe]
in the land of Egypt
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)Alternate translation: [throughout the land of Egypt] or [throughout their country]
Genesis 41:57
Then all the earth
Quote: וְכָל־הָאָ֨רֶץ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This phrase refers to the people living on the earth. Consider whether or not you need to make that explicit in your language. See how you translated a similar metonymy (“all the land”) in verse 55. Alternate translation: [In fact, people from all over the earth]
came to Egypt to Joseph to buy {grain
Quote: בָּ֣אוּ מִצְרַ֔יְמָה לִשְׁבֹּ֖ר אֶל־יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)Alternate translation: [started traveling to Egypt to buy food from Joseph]
because the famine was severe in all the earth
Quote: כִּֽי־חָזַ֥ק הָרָעָ֖ב בְּכָל־הָאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is clearer or more natural to put this clause near the beginning of verse 57 and say, “In fact, the famine was/became so severe/terrible in/throughout the entire/whole world that people started coming/traveling to Egypt from all over the world to buy grain from Joseph.” Do what is best in your language. See how you translated “severe/terrible” in verse 56. Alternate translation: [because the food shortage was so severe throughout the entire world]
Genesis 42
Genesis 42:1
Then Jacob saw that there was grain in Egypt
Quote: וַיַּ֣רְא יַעֲקֹ֔ב כִּ֥י יֶשׁ־שֶׁ֖בֶר בְּמִצְרָ֑יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
This verse begins a new episode which overlaps in time with some of what was happening in chapter 41. Consider what is the best way to begin this episode in your language. Alternate translation: [Meanwhile in the land of Canaan, when Jacob learned that there was grain for sale in the country of Egypt] or [… when Jacob found out that he could buy grain in Egypt]
so Jacob said to his sons
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יַעֲקֹב֙ לְבָנָ֔יו (1)Alternate translation: [he asked his sons]
Why are you looking at each other
Quote: לָ֖מָּה תִּתְרָאֽוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Jacob uses this rhetorical question to get his sons to take action and do what he says next. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: [What are you waiting for?] or [Do not just sit here staring at each other!] or [Do not just stand there doing nothing!]
Genesis 42:2
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
For some languages it is more natural to omit the quote margin here, because the same person (Jacob) is still talking to the same people (his sons). Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Then he added]
Behold
Quote: הִנֵּ֣ה (1)Alternate translation: [Look]
I have heard
Quote: שָׁמַ֔עְתִּי (1)Alternate translation: [I learned] or [Someone told me]
that there is grain in Egypt
Quote: כִּ֥י יֶשׁ־שֶׁ֖בֶר בְּמִצְרָ֑יִם (1)Alternate translation: [that there is much grain for sale in the country of Egypt] or [that the country of Egypt has a lot of grain that people can buy]
Go down there
Quote: רְדוּ־שָׁ֨מָּה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-politeness
Make sure that the way you translate Jacob’s command to his sons does not sound rude or harsh. Alternate translation: [So I want you to go there] or [So please go down there]
and buy {some} for us from there
Quote: וְשִׁבְרוּ־לָ֣נוּ מִשָּׁ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [and buy some grain for us all]
so that we will live
Quote: וְנִחְיֶ֖ה (1)Alternate translation: [so that we will survive] or [so that we will stay alive]
and not die
Quote: וְלֹ֥א נָמֽוּת (1)Alternate translation: [and not die from hunger]
Genesis 42:3
Then ten of Joseph’s brothers went down
Quote: וַיֵּרְד֥וּ אֲחֵֽי־יוֹסֵ֖ף עֲשָׂרָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
These ten brothers were older than Joseph and had different mothers than he did. Also, the verb went down refers to the fact that Egypt was lower in elevation than the land of Canaan. It is also located southwest of Canaan. See how you translated “go down” in verse 2 and went down in Gen 12:10.
Genesis 42:4
But Jacob did not send Benjamin, the brother of Joseph
Quote: וְאֶת־בִּנְיָמִין֙ אֲחִ֣י יוֹסֵ֔ף לֹא־שָׁלַ֥ח יַעֲקֹ֖ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
Benjamin was younger than Joseph and had the same mother (Rachel) and father.
with his brothers
Quote: אֶת־אֶחָ֑יו (1)Alternate translation: [with his other brothers]
because he said, “So that harm does not meet him
Quote: כִּ֣י אָמַ֔ר פֶּן־יִקְרָאֶ֖נּוּ אָסֽוֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
For some languages it is more natural to put this clause first in this verse and say, “But Jacob was concerned that harm might come to Joseph’s younger brother Benjamin, so he did not send him with the rest of his brothers to Egypt.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [because Jacob thought that he might be harmed] or [because he was concerned that something terrible might happen to him]
Genesis 42:5
And the sons of Israel came
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֨אוּ֙ בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
If it is not clear that Israel (verse 5) and “Jacob” (verse 4) refer to the same person, you could include the name Jacob here in your translation or in a footnote. Alternate translation: [The sons of Israel that is, Jacob] or [So the sons of Jacob, who was also called Israel]
And … came
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֨אוּ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
Alternate translation: [came to Egypt]
among {those} who came
Quote: בְּת֣וֹךְ הַבָּאִ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [along with many other people who were going there] or [along with many other travelers]
because the famine
Quote: כִּֽי & הָרָעָ֖ב (1)See how you translated because the famine in Gen 41:57. Alternate translation: [because the extreme food shortage] or [because the extreme lack of food]
was in the land of Canaan
Quote: הָיָ֥ה & בְּאֶ֥רֶץ כְּנָֽעַן (1)Alternate translation: [was also affecting everyone in the land of Canaan] or [was also affecting the entire land of Canaan]
Genesis 42:6
Now Joseph {was} the governor over the land
Quote: וְיוֹסֵ֗ף & הַשַּׁלִּ֣יט עַל־הָאָ֔רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
Alternate translation: [Since Joseph was the administrator over the land of Egypt]
the land
Quote: הָאָ֔רֶץ (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “the country of Egypt,” which is what it means earlier in verse 6; or (2) “the earth/world.”
So the brothers of Joseph came
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֨אוּ֙ אֲחֵ֣י יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)So/Then Joseph’s brothers also came/went
and bowed down to him {with} {their} noses to the ground
Quote: וַיִּשְׁתַּֽחֲווּ־ל֥וֹ אַפַּ֖יִם אָֽרְצָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
See how you translated “bow down” in Gen 37:7, 9-10. Alternate translation: [before him like everyone else and bowed down with their foreheads toward the ground to show him respect] or [to him and prostrated themselves before him to show respect]
Genesis 42:7
And Joseph saw his brothers and recognized them
Quote: וַיַּ֥רְא יוֹסֵ֛ף אֶת־אֶחָ֖יו וַיַּכִּרֵ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [Joseph immediately recognized his brothers]
but he acted like a stranger to them
Quote: וַיִּתְנַכֵּ֨ר אֲלֵיהֶ֜ם (1)For some languages it is better to divide the first sentence in this verse into shorter sentences. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [but he treated them like strangers] or [But he pretended that he did not know them]
and he spoke with them harshly
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֧ר אִתָּ֣ם קָשׁ֗וֹת (1)Consider whether or not it is more natural to begin a new sentence here in your language. Alternate translation: [and spoke to them in a harsh way] or [In fact, he spoke to them roughly]
and said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֲלֵהֶם֙ (1)Alternate translation: [and questioned them] or [and demanded]
Where did you come from
Quote: מֵאַ֣יִן בָּאתֶ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [Where are you from?]
From the land of Canaan to buy food
Quote: מֵאֶ֥רֶץ כְּנַ֖עַן לִשְׁבָּר־אֹֽכֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
For some languages it is necessary to begin with a respectful title or form of address when someone talks to a person of high status like Joseph. See how Joseph’s brothers address him in verse 10. Alternate translation: [Sir, we came from the land of Canaan to buy some grain] or [Sir, we are from the land of Canaan and we came to buy some grain]
Genesis 42:8
And Joseph recognized his brothers, but they did not recognize him
Quote: וַיַּכֵּ֥ר יוֹסֵ֖ף אֶת־אֶחָ֑יו וְהֵ֖ם לֹ֥א הִכִּרֻֽהוּ (1)Alternate translation: [Although Joseph recognized his brothers, they did not know who he was]
Genesis 42:9
about them
Quote: לָהֶ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [about them long ago]
and he said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֲלֵהֶם֙ (1)Alternate translation: [so he told them]
You {are} spies
Quote: מְרַגְּלִ֣ים אַתֶּ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [You are spying on our country!]
You have come
Quote: בָּאתֶֽם (1)Alternate translation: [The reason you came here is]
to see the nakedness of the land
Quote: לִרְא֛וֹת אֶת־עֶרְוַ֥ת הָאָ֖רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Alternate translation: [to find out where our country is vulnerable!]
Genesis 42:10
No, my lord
Quote: לֹ֣א אֲדֹנִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
Make sure your translation of this phrase sounds polite. In some cultures it is rude to say No too directly. See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 23:11. Alternate translation: [No, sir]
but your servants have come
Quote: וַעֲבָדֶ֥יךָ בָּ֖אוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
The brothers referred to themselves as your servants to show respect to Joseph and to acknowledge his high position. Translate this phrase in a polite way that shows respect toward Joseph. Alternate translation: [but rather we come before you humbly] or [Rather, we are just humble men who have come here]
to buy food
Quote: לִשְׁבָּר־אֹֽכֶל (1)Alternate translation: [only to buy some food]
Genesis 42:11
sons of one man
Quote: בְּנֵ֥י אִישׁ־אֶחָ֖ד (1)Alternate translation: [the sons of the same man]
We {are} honest. Your servants are not spies
Quote: נָ֑חְנוּ כֵּנִ֣ים & לֹא־הָי֥וּ עֲבָדֶ֖יךָ מְרַגְּלִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Alternate translation: [We are trustworthy people who highly respect you. We are not spies] or [We are humble, honest people, not spies]
Genesis 42:12
But he said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר אֲלֵהֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then Joseph replied] or [But he accused them]
No, indeed you have come
Quote: לֹ֕א כִּֽי & בָּאתֶ֥ם (1)Different languages use “yes” and “no” in different ways, depending on the context. Do what is accurate and natural in this context in your language. Also see how you translated No in Gen 18:15.
to see the nakedness of the land
Quote: עֶרְוַ֥ת הָאָ֖רֶץ & לִרְאֽוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated this phrase in verse 9. Alternate translation: [to find out where our country is vulnerable!]
Genesis 42:13
But they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֗וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then they responded]
Your servants {are} twelve brothers
Quote: שְׁנֵ֣ים עָשָׂר֩ עֲבָדֶ֨יךָ אַחִ֧ים (1)Alternate translation: [Sir, there are twelve of us brothers]
We {are} sons of one man
Quote: אֲנַ֛חְנוּ בְּנֵ֥י אִישׁ־אֶחָ֖ד (1)Alternate translation: [We are all sons of the same man] or [We all have the same father]
in the land of Canaan
Quote: בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנָ֑עַן (1)Alternate translation: [who lives in the land of Canaan] or [and we live in the land of Canaan]
And behold, the youngest
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֨ה הַקָּטֹ֤ן (1)The word behold calls attention to what the brothers say next. Some translations leave it implied. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [In fact, our youngest brother]
is} with our father today
Quote: אֶת־אָבִ֨ינוּ֙ הַיּ֔וֹם (1)Alternate translation: [is presently back at home with our father] or [is there with our father right now]
and the one
Quote: וְהָאֶחָ֖ד (1)Alternate translation: [but the other one]
is not {alive
Quote: אֵינֶֽנּוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
In this context, is not is an idiom that means “has died.” Consider whether or not your language has a similar idiom that would fit well here. Alternate translation: [is no more] or [is no longer with us]
Genesis 42:14
Then Joseph said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר אֲלֵהֶ֖ם יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then Joseph accused them] or [Then Joseph responded]
It {is} just as I told you, saying, ‘You {are} spies
Quote: ה֗וּא אֲשֶׁ֨ר דִּבַּ֧רְתִּי אֲלֵכֶ֛ם לֵאמֹ֖ר מְרַגְּלִ֥ים אַתֶּֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Consider whether it is more natural in your language to translate the embedded quote You are spies as a direct or indirect quote. Alternate translation: [What I told you is right You are spying on our country!] or [I was right when I said that you are secretly gathering information about our country!]
Genesis 42:15
By this
Quote: בְּזֹ֖את (1)Alternate translation: [In this way]
you will be tested
Quote: תִּבָּחֵ֑נוּ (1)Alternate translation: [I will test whether or not you told me the truth:] or [I am going to test you to find out if your claims are true:]
By} the life of Pharaoh
Quote: חֵ֤י פַרְעֹה֙ (1)Joseph uses King Pharaoh’s name here to make an oath that emphasizes the certainty of what he says next. Make sure that the way he refers to Pharaoh sounds respectful in your translation. See how you translated other vows in Gen 14:22 and 21:23-24. Alternate translation: [As certain as King Pharaoh lives, I vow that]
you will not leave
Quote: אִם־תֵּצְא֣וּ (1)Alternate translation: [you will definitely not leave] or [I will not let you leave]
from this {place
Quote: מִזֶּ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [from here]
unless your youngest brother comes here
Quote: כִּ֧י אִם־בְּב֛וֹא אֲחִיכֶ֥ם הַקָּטֹ֖ן הֵֽנָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions
For some languages it may be better to change the wording of this sentence and say, “By the life of Pharaoh, the only way you will ever leave Egypt is if your youngest brother comes here.” or “By the life of Pharaoh, your youngest brother must come here, or else you will definitely not/never leave Egypt!” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [until your youngest brother comes here] or [until I see that your youngest brother is here]
Genesis 42:16
Send one of you
Quote: שִׁלְח֨וּ מִכֶּ֣ם אֶחָד֮ (1)Alternate translation: [Choose one of you to go home]
and let him bring your brother
Quote: וְיִקַּ֣ח אֶת־אֲחִיכֶם֒ (1)Alternate translation: [to get your youngest brother and bring him here]
and you
Quote: וְאַתֶּם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
In this verse, the pronouns you and your are plural. Alternate translation: [You who are left]
will be bound
Quote: הֵאָ֣סְר֔וּ (1)See how you translated bound in Gen 39:20; 40:3, 5. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [will be put in prison]
Then your words will be tested {as to whether} the truth {is} in you
Quote: וְיִבָּֽחֲנוּ֙ דִּבְרֵיכֶ֔ם הַֽאֱמֶ֖ת אִתְּכֶ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [That way I can verify whether or not you told me the truth] or [If you do that, I will know that what you told me is true]
And if not
Quote: וְאִם־לֹ֕א (1)Alternate translation: [But if you are not telling the truth]
by} the life of Pharaoh
Quote: חֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֔ה (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 15.
surely you {are} spies
Quote: כִּ֥י מְרַגְּלִ֖ים אַתֶּֽם (1)Alternate translation: [that means you are definitely spies!]
Genesis 42:17
Then he put them together in custody {for} three days
Quote: וַיֶּאֱסֹ֥ף אֹתָ֛ם אֶל־מִשְׁמָ֖ר שְׁלֹ֥שֶׁת יָמִֽים (1)See how you translated in custody in Gen 40:3-4, 7. Alternate translation: [Then Joseph had his soldiers put them in custody for three days]
Genesis 42:18
Then Joseph said to them on the third day
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר אֲלֵהֶ֤ם יוֹסֵף֙ בַּיּ֣וֹם הַשְּׁלִישִׁ֔י (1)See how you translated on the third day in Gen 22:4, 31:22, 40:20. It may be necessary to translate this phrase in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [After three days, Joseph said to them]
Do this
Quote: זֹ֥את עֲשׂ֖וּ (1)Alternate translation: [Do what I say and] or [If you do this] or [If you do what I say]
and live
Quote: וִֽחְי֑וּ (1)Alternate translation: [you will live] or [I will spare your lives]
because} I fear God
Quote: אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִ֖ים אֲנִ֥י יָרֵֽא (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, “I am a man who reveres/respects God. So if you do what I say, I will let you live.” Do what is best in your language. See how you translated fear God in Gen 22:12. Alternate translation: [since I respect and obey God:]
Genesis 42:19
If you {are} honest
Quote: אִם־כֵּנִ֣ים אַתֶּ֔ם (1)See how you translated honest in verse 11. Alternate translation: [If you truly are honest men as you say] or [Since you claim to be honest men]
let one of your brothers be bound in your prison house
Quote: אֲחִיכֶ֣ם אֶחָ֔ד יֵאָסֵ֖ר בְּבֵ֣ית מִשְׁמַרְכֶ֑ם (1)See how you translated be bound in verse 16. Alternate translation: [I will make just one of you brothers remain where you have been, in prison] or [just one of you brothers must remain confined where you have been]
and you go take grain back
Quote: וְאַתֶּם֙ לְכ֣וּ הָבִ֔יאוּ שֶׁ֖בֶר (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [while the rest of you go back home now with grain] or [The rest of you may go and take grain back home]
for} the famine of your households
Quote: רַעֲב֥וֹן בָּתֵּיכֶֽם (1)Alternate translation: [for your hungry families to eat] or [to feed your hungry households]
Genesis 42:20
Then you will bring your youngest brother to me
Quote: וְאֶת־אֲחִיכֶ֤ם הַקָּטֹן֙ תָּבִ֣יאוּ אֵלַ֔י (1)Alternate translation: [After that, you must come back here to me with your youngest brother]
so that your words will be verified
Quote: וְיֵאָמְנ֥וּ דִבְרֵיכֶ֖ם (1)See how you translated a similar clause in verse 16. Alternate translation: [so that what you have told me will be proven to be true]
and you will not die
Quote: וְלֹ֣א תָמ֑וּתוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes
In this context, the word die refers to execution, not death by natural causes. Alternate translation: [and I will spare your lives and not execute you for being spies]
And they did so
Quote: וַיַּעֲשׂוּ־כֵֽן (1)Alternate translation: [… agreed to do what he said] or [… accepted his proposal]
Genesis 42:21
We {are} truly guilty concerning our brother
Quote: אֲבָל֮ אֲשֵׁמִ֣ים ׀ אֲנַחְנוּ֮ עַל־אָחִינוּ֒ (1)Alternate translation: [This is happening because we sinned badly against our brother Joseph long ago]
because we saw the distress of his soul
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר רָאִ֜ינוּ צָרַ֥ת נַפְשׁ֛וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The phrase his soul refers here to Joseph. Alternate translation: [We saw how distressed he was] or [We saw how terribly he was suffering]
when he pleaded with us
Quote: בְּהִתְחַֽנְנ֥וֹ אֵלֵ֖ינוּ (1)Alternate translation: [when he urgently asked us to free him]
but we did not listen
Quote: וְלֹ֣א שָׁמָ֑עְנוּ (1)Alternate translation: [but we refused to let him go]
For that {reason
Quote: עַל־כֵּן֙ (1)Alternate translation: [That is the reason that]
this distress has come upon us
Quote: בָּ֣אָה אֵלֵ֔ינוּ הַצָּרָ֖ה הַזֹּֽאת (1)Alternate translation: [we are now experiencing so much trouble] or [we are suffering like this now]
Genesis 42:22
Then Reuben responded to them, saying
Quote: וַיַּעַן֩ רְאוּבֵ֨ן אֹתָ֜ם לֵאמֹ֗ר (1)Alternate translation: [Reuben reproached them by saying]
Did I not tell you, saying
Quote: הֲלוֹא֩ אָמַ֨רְתִּי אֲלֵיכֶ֧ם ׀ לֵאמֹ֛ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Reuben uses this rhetorical question to scold his brothers. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: [Remember that I told you]
Do not sin against the lad
Quote: אַל־תֶּחֶטְא֥וּ בַיֶּ֖לֶד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Consider whether it is more natural in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote. Also, see how you translated lad in Gen 37:30, and keep in mind that Joseph was seventeen years old when his brothers sold him. Alternate translation: [that you must not harm the boy!]
But you did not listen
Quote: וְלֹ֣א שְׁמַעְתֶּ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [But you did not obey me]
so now behold
Quote: וְגַם & הִנֵּ֥ה (1)Alternate translation: [so now, see what is happening:] or [so now look]
his blood is being accounted for
Quote: דָּמ֖וֹ & נִדְרָֽשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The phrase his blood refers to Joseph’s death; if you do not translate that phrase literally, you could put the literal text in a footnote since blood is such an important term throughout the Bible. Alternate translation: [we are being held responsible by God for his death!] or [We are getting what we deserve for causing his death!]
Genesis 42:23
that Joseph understood {them
Quote: כִּ֥י שֹׁמֵ֖עַ יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Alternate translation: [that Joseph could understand what they were saying to each other] or [that he was listening to what they were saying]
because the interpreter {was} between them
Quote: כִּ֥י הַמֵּלִ֖יץ בֵּינֹתָֽם (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, “Now Joseph had been using an interpreter to speak to his brothers, so they did not realize that Joseph could understand them.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 42:24
And he turned away
Quote: וַיִּסֹּ֥ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Throughout this section make sure it is clear at each point who is being referred to, using nouns (including names) and pronouns naturally in your language. Alternate translation: [So he turned]
And he turned away from them
Quote: וַיִּסֹּ֥ב מֵֽעֲלֵיהֶ֖ם (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “turned his back to them” or (2) “went/stepped away from them.” Either way, Joseph was hiding his face from his brothers so they could not see that he was crying.
and cried
Quote: וַיֵּ֑בְךְּ (1)Alternate translation: [to hide his tears]
Then he turned back toward them
Quote: וַיָּ֤שָׁב אֲלֵהֶם֙ (1)Make sure that the way you translate this sentence fits with the way you translated the last sentence in verse 23. Alternate translation: [Then after he recovered, Joseph turned back around] or [When he had composed himself, he came back to them]
and spoke to them
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֣ר אֲלֵהֶ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [and spoke to them again using his translator] or [and continued speaking to them]
Then he took Simeon from them
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֤ח מֵֽאִתָּם֙ אֶת־שִׁמְע֔וֹן (1)Alternate translation: [Next he chose Simeon from among them] or [Then he separated Simeon from the rest of the brothers]
and bound him
Quote: וַיֶּאֱסֹ֥ר אֹת֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Joseph probably had soldiers bind Simeon. See how you translated a similar case in Gen 40:3. Alternate translation: [and had him bound] or [and had his soldiers confine him with ropes]
before their eyes
Quote: לְעֵינֵיהֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Alternate translation: [as they watched] or [in front of them]
Genesis 42:25
Then Joseph ordered {his servants} and they filled
Quote: וַיְצַ֣ו יוֹסֵ֗ף וַיְמַלְא֣וּ (1)Alternate translation: [Then Joseph commanded his servants to fill] or [Then Joseph had his servants fill]
their bags {with} grain
Quote: אֶת־כְּלֵיהֶם֮ בָּר֒ (1)Two different words, “bag” and sack, are used in this verse to refer to the bags of grain that the brothers had. Some languages use just one of these terms in order to prevent confusion. Do what is best in your language.
And {he ordered them} to return {each} man’s silver to his sack
Quote: וּלְהָשִׁ֤יב כַּסְפֵּיהֶם֙ אִ֣ישׁ אֶל־שַׂקּ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Joseph had his servants to do this without his brothers knowing about it.
and to give provisions to them for the road
Quote: וְלָתֵ֥ת לָהֶ֛ם צֵדָ֖ה לַדָּ֑רֶךְ (1)Alternate translation: [and to supply them with food to eat on the journey home] or [and to give them food to eat as they traveled home]
And he did that for them
Quote: וַיַּ֥עַשׂ לָהֶ֖ם כֵּֽן (1)Consider whether it is more natural in your language to end this sentence here (and begin verse 26 with a new sentence) or to continue this sentence into verse 26. Alternate translation: [So, that is what was done for them] or [That is what Joseph did for them]
Genesis 42:26
Then they loaded
Quote: וַיִּשְׂא֥וּ (1)Make sure your choice here fits with the way you translated the end of verse 25. Alternate translation: [Then his brothers put] or [they put] or [his brothers put]
and went from there
Quote: וַיֵּלְכ֖וּ מִשָּֽׁם (1)The way you translate this phrase should reflect the fact that Joseph’s brothers were just starting their journey back home; they did not reach their home until several days later (verse 29). Alternate translation: [and left there to go home]
Genesis 42:27
Then one {of them} opened his sack to give fodder to his donkey at the lodging place
Quote: וַיִּפְתַּ֨ח הָאֶחָ֜ד אֶת־שַׂקּ֗וֹ לָתֵ֥ת מִסְפּ֛וֹא לַחֲמֹר֖וֹ בַּמָּל֑וֹן (1)See how you translated fodder in Gen 24:25, 32. Alternate translation: [Later, when they stopped at a place to lodge for the night, one of them opened his sack to get some feed to feed his donkey]
and he saw his silver, and behold, it {was} in the mouth of his sack
Quote: וַיַּרְא֙ אֶת־כַּסְפּ֔וֹ וְהִנֵּה־ה֖וּא בְּפִ֥י אַמְתַּחְתּֽוֹ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [Suddenly he saw that the silver he had paid for the grain was right there in the opening of his sack!] or [There in the top of his sack he saw the money that he had paid to buy grain!]
Genesis 42:28
So he said to his brothers
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֶל־אֶחָיו֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then he exclaimed to his brothers] or [Then he exclaimed to the others]
My silver has been returned
Quote: הוּשַׁ֣ב כַּסְפִּ֔י (1)Alternate translation: [Somebody has returned my grain money to me!] or [Someone gave my grain money back to me!]
And indeed behold, {it is} in my sack
Quote: וְגַ֖ם הִנֵּ֣ה בְאַמְתַּחְתִּ֑י (1)Alternate translation: [Here it is in my grain sack!] or [It is right here in my grain sack!]
Then their hearts went out
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֣א לִבָּ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Consider what is the best way to translate this idiom in your language. Alternate translation: [They looked, and their hearts sank]
and each {man} trembled to his brother, saying
Quote: וַיֶּֽחֶרְד֞וּ אִ֤ישׁ אֶל־אָחִיו֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)Alternate translation: [and they all started shaking with fear and said to each other] or [and they trembled with fear. They asked each other]
What {is} this God has done to us
Quote: מַה־זֹּ֛את עָשָׂ֥ה אֱלֹהִ֖ים לָֽנוּ (1)Alternate translation: [What is God doing to us?] or [Why is God making this happen to us?]
Genesis 42:29
Then they came to Jacob their father in the land of Canaan
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֛אוּ אֶל־יַעֲקֹ֥ב אֲבִיהֶ֖ם אַ֣רְצָה כְּנָ֑עַן (1)Alternate translation: [When they got back home to their father Jacob in the region of Canaan] or [When they reached their home in the land of Canaan where their father Jacob was]
and they reported to him all
Quote: וַיַּגִּ֣ידוּ ל֔וֹ אֵ֛ת כָּל (1)See how you translated reported to in Gen 38:13. Alternate translation: [they explained to him all]
Genesis 42:30
The man, the lord of the land
Quote: הָאִ֨ישׁ אֲדֹנֵ֥י הָאָ֛רֶץ (1)Alternate translation: [The man who is the ruler over the land of Egypt] or [The man who controls the land of Egypt]
spoke to us harshly
Quote: דִּ֠בֶּר & אִתָּ֖נוּ קָשׁ֑וֹת (1)See how you translated harshly in verse 7. Alternate translation: [spoke to us roughly] or [was very harsh when he spoke to us]
and treated us as {if we were} spying out
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֣ן אֹתָ֔נוּ כִּֽמְרַגְּלִ֖ים (1)Alternate translation: [He even accused us of being spies!]
Genesis 42:31
But we said to him, ‘We {are} honest. We are not spies
Quote: וַנֹּ֥אמֶר אֵלָ֖יו כֵּנִ֣ים אֲנָ֑חְנוּ לֹ֥א הָיִ֖ינוּ מְרַגְּלִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Consider whether it is more natural in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote. Also, see how you translated “… honest … not spies” in verse 11. Alternate translation: [We told him that we are not spies, but rather trustworthy men]
Genesis 42:32
We {are} twelve brothers
Quote: שְׁנֵים־עָשָׂ֥ר אֲנַ֛חְנוּ אַחִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Make sure that the way you translate verse 32 fits with whether you used a direct or indirect quote in verse 31. Alternate translation: [We told him that we are twelve brothers]
the sons of our father
Quote: בְּנֵ֣י אָבִ֑ינוּ (1)Alternate translation: [sons of one father]
is not {alive
Quote: אֵינֶ֔נּוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
See how you translated this idiom in verse 13. Alternate translation: [is no more] or [is no longer with us]
and the youngest
Quote: וְהַקָּטֹ֥ן (1)Alternate translation: [and our youngest one]
is} with our father today
Quote: הַיּ֛וֹם אֶת־אָבִ֖ינוּ (1)Alternate translation: [is right now with our father at home]
Genesis 42:33
Then the man, the lord of the land, said to us
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלֵ֗ינוּ הָאִישׁ֙ אֲדֹנֵ֣י הָאָ֔רֶץ (1)See how you translated the man, the lord of the land in verse 30. Alternate translation: [Then the ruler of the land said to us] or [But the man who rules the land told us]
By this
Quote: בְּזֹ֣את (1)See how you translated By this in verse 15. Alternate translation: [In this way]
I will know that you {are} honest
Quote: אֵדַ֔ע כִּ֥י כֵנִ֖ים אַתֶּ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [I will know that you are trustworthy men]
Leave one of your brothers with me
Quote: אֲחִיכֶ֤ם הָֽאֶחָד֙ הַנִּ֣יחוּ אִתִּ֔י (1)Alternate translation: [One of you brothers will stay here with me]
and take {grain} {for} the famine of your households and go
Quote: וְאֶת־רַעֲב֥וֹן בָּתֵּיכֶ֖ם קְח֥וּ וָלֵֽכוּ (1)Alternate translation: [while the rest of you buy grain to relieve the hunger of your families and go home] or [and the rest of you go home with grain for your hungry households]
Genesis 42:34
Then bring your youngest brother to me
Quote: וְ֠הָבִיאוּ אֶת־אֲחִיכֶ֣ם הַקָּטֹן֮ אֵלַי֒ (1)See how you translated a similar clause at the beginning of verse 20. Alternate translation: [Then bring your youngest brother back here to me] or [After that, you must come back here to me with your youngest brother]
so that I will know that you {are} not spies
Quote: וְאֵֽדְעָ֗ה כִּ֣י לֹ֤א מְרַגְּלִים֙ אַתֶּ֔ם (1)Consider again how you translated spies in Gen 42:9-11, 14, 16, 30, 31, 34. Alternate translation: [Then I will know that you are not spies]
that you {are} honest
Quote: כִּ֥י כֵנִ֖ים אַתֶּ֑ם (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, “Then I will know that you are honest/trustworthy men/people and not spies.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [but are honest men]
Then} I will give your brother to you
Quote: אֶת־אֲחִיכֶם֙ אֶתֵּ֣ן לָכֶ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [Then I will release to you your brother who is in prison]
Genesis 42:35
Then it happened they were emptying their sacks
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י הֵ֚ם מְרִיקִ֣ים שַׂקֵּיהֶ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [Sometime after that, the brothers began to empty the grain from their sacks]
and behold, each {man’s} pouch of his silver {was} inside his sack
Quote: וְהִנֵּה־אִ֥ישׁ צְרוֹר־כַּסְפּ֖וֹ בְּשַׂקּ֑וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [and they were surprised to see their bags of money inside their sacks!]
And they and their father saw the pouches of their silver, and they were afraid
Quote: וַיִּרְא֞וּ אֶת־צְרֹר֧וֹת כַּסְפֵּיהֶ֛ם הֵ֥מָּה וַאֲבִיהֶ֖ם וַיִּירָֽאוּ (1)Alternate translation: [When they and their father Jacob saw the bags of silver they were terrified]
Genesis 42:36
Then Jacob their father said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֲלֵהֶם֙ יַעֲקֹ֣ב אֲבִיהֶ֔ם (1)If you make Jacob explicit in verse 35, you could leave it implied here in verse 36. Alternate translation: [Then their father said to them]
You have bereaved me
Quote: אֹתִ֖י שִׁכַּלְתֶּ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [You have deprived me of my sons!]
Joseph is not {here}! And Simeon is not {here
Quote: יוֹסֵ֤ף אֵינֶ֨נּוּ֙ וְשִׁמְע֣וֹן אֵינֶ֔נּוּ (1)Alternate translation: [Joseph and Simeon are no longer with us!]
All {these} things are against me
Quote: עָלַ֖י הָי֥וּ כֻלָּֽנָה (1)Alternate translation: [Everything is against me!] or [Everything is going badly for me!]
Genesis 42:37
Then Reuben said to his father, saying
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר רְאוּבֵן֙ אֶל־אָבִ֣יו לֵאמֹ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then Reuben responded to his father]
You may kill my two sons if I do not bring him to you
Quote: אֶת־שְׁנֵ֤י בָנַי֙ תָּמִ֔ית אִם־לֹ֥א אֲבִיאֶ֖נּוּ אֵלֶ֑יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages, it is necessary to change the order of clauses in this sentence (so that the condition comes first), as in the second alternate above. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [You may punish me by killing my sons if I do not bring Benjamin back to you] or [If I fail to bring Benjamin back to you safely, you can punish me by killing my two sons]
Put him in my hand
Quote: תְּנָ֤ה אֹתוֹ֙ עַל־יָדִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The phrase in my hand is used here as an idiom that means that Reuben was going to be responsible for Benjamin’s welfare. Alternate translation: [Entrust him to my care as we travel to Egypt] or [Let me be responsible for taking care of Benjamin on our trip to Egypt]
and I will return him to you
Quote: וַאֲנִ֖י אֲשִׁיבֶ֥נּוּ אֵלֶֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to change the order of clauses in this quote and say, “Father, let me be responsible for taking Benjamin down to Egypt. If I fail to bring him back to you safely, you can punish me by killing my two sons.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [and I promise that I will bring him back to you safely]
Genesis 42:38
But he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [But his father insisted]
My son will not go down with you
Quote: לֹֽא־יֵרֵ֥ד בְּנִ֖י עִמָּכֶ֑ם (1)Notice that the pronoun you is plural in this verse. Also, see how you translated go down in verse 2. Alternate translation: [My son Benjamin may not go with you to Egypt]
because his brother is dead
Quote: כִּֽי־אָחִ֨יו מֵ֜ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
Joseph was Benjamin’s older brother from the same father and mother. Consider whether your language has a special kinship term for that. Also consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language.
and he alone is left
Quote: וְה֧וּא לְבַדּ֣וֹ נִשְׁאָ֗ר (1)You could include a footnote here that explains that Joseph and Benjamin were the only two sons of Rachel, Jacob’s favorite wife who died after giving birth to Benjamin (Gen 35:16-20). Alternate translation: [so he is the only one I have left from his mother]
And {if} harm were to meet him on the road that you are going on
Quote: וּקְרָאָ֤הוּ אָסוֹן֙ בַּדֶּ֨רֶךְ֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר תֵּֽלְכוּ־בָ֔הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
Jacob is saying what would happen if he lost Benjamin too. Consider what is the best way to translate this hypothetical statement in your language. Also, see how you translated “harm … meet him” in verse 4. Alternate translation: [So if he were to be killed during your journey] or [So if anything bad happened to him while you are traveling]
then you would bring my gray head down in sorrow
Quote: וְהוֹרַדְתֶּ֧ם אֶת־שֵׂיבָתִ֛י בְּיָג֖וֹן (1)Jacob uses the phrase my gray head to refer to himself as their aged father. Consider whether your language has a similar phrase that is natural and works well here. Alternate translation: [you would cause me, your gray-haired father, to grieve so deeply that I would die and go down] or [you would cause me, your gray-haired father, so much grief that I would die and go down]
to Sheol
Quote: שְׁאֽוֹלָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
The Hebrew term Sheol is the name of the place where the spirits of people went after they died. If you transliterate the name Sheol in your translation, you could put its meaning in a footnote. See how you translated this term in Gen 37:35, and see the note about that there.
Genesis 43
Genesis 43:1
Now the famine
Quote: וְהָרָעָ֖ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
The setting changes here to focus on what is happening in Canaan. Some languages use a special conjunction (like Now) to indicate that, while others do not use a conjunction here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [The food shortage]
was} heavy
Quote: כָּבֵ֥ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The word heavy is used here as an idiom that means the famine caused everyone much suffering. See how you translated the same idiom in Gen 12:10 and Gen 41:31. Alternate translation: [was oppressive]
in the land
Quote: בָּאָֽרֶץ (1)Alternate translation: [in the land of Canaan]
Genesis 43:2
So it happened
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י (1)This phrase introduces an important event and helps create suspense so that readers will wonder what the outcome will be. Many translations omit it happened because it is not natural in their language. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [So it happened that]
when they finished
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֤ר כִּלּוּ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Consider whether it is clearer in your language to use a pronoun or a noun phrase here. Alternate translation: [when Jacob and his family had finished eating] or [… had used up]
the grain that they had brought
Quote: אֶת־הַשֶּׁ֔בֶר אֲשֶׁ֥ר הֵבִ֖יאוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun they refers here to Jacob’s sons, not Jacob’s family (as it did earlier in this sentence). Alternate translation: [all the grain that his sons had bought and brought home]
then their father said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֲלֵיהֶם֙ אֲבִיהֶ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [their father Jacob told them] or [he told them]
buy a little food
Quote: שִׁבְרוּ & מְעַט־אֹֽכֶל (1)Alternate translation: [and buy some more food]
for us
Quote: לָ֥נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
The pronoun us includes Jacob and his sons and their families here. Alternate translation: [for our family]
Genesis 43:3
But Judah said to him, saying
Quote: וַיֹּ֧אמֶר אֵלָ֛יו יְהוּדָ֖ה לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [His son Judah replied]
The man
Quote: הָאִ֤ישׁ (1)The brothers did not realize yet that Joseph was the governor they had spoken to in Egypt, so Judah referred to him generally here as “the man.” See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 42:30. Alternate translation: [The man who governs the country there]
strongly warned us, saying
Quote: הָעֵ֣ד הֵעִד֩ בָּ֨נוּ & לֵאמֹר֙ (1)Alternate translation: [sternly told us] or [was serious when he warned us]
You will not see my face
Quote: לֹֽא־תִרְא֣וּ פָנַ֔י (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: [that we cannot see him again] or [that we cannot come to him again to buy grain]
unless your brother {is} with you
Quote: בִּלְתִּ֖י אֲחִיכֶ֥ם אִתְּכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions
Make sure that the way you translate this clause fits with how you translated the previous part of this sentence. For some languages it is necessary to put this clause before the previous clause and say, “… that our youngest brother must be with us or else we will not be permitted to see him again!” Alternate translation: [unless our youngest brother is with us!]
Genesis 43:4
If you will send our brother with us
Quote: אִם־יֶשְׁךָ֛ מְשַׁלֵּ֥חַ אֶת־אָחִ֖ינוּ אִתָּ֑נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
In verses 3-5, the pronouns us and we are exclusive since they do not include Jacob (whom Judah is talking to). Alternate translation: [So if you will permit our youngest brother to go with us] or [So if you will let our youngest brother go with us]
we will go down
Quote: נֵרְדָ֕ה (1)Alternate translation: [then we can travel to Egypt]
and buy food for you
Quote: וְנִשְׁבְּרָ֥ה לְךָ֖ אֹֽכֶל (1)Alternate translation: [and buy more grain for you and the rest of the family]
Genesis 43:5
send {him
Quote: מְשַׁלֵּ֖חַ (1)See how you translated send in verse 4. Alternate translation: [allow him to go with us]
we will not go down
Quote: לֹ֣א נֵרֵ֑ד (1)See how you translated go down and “went down” in Gen 42:2-3. Alternate translation: [we cannot go down there] or [we must not go there to buy grain]
because the man said to us
Quote: כִּֽי־הָאִ֞ישׁ אָמַ֤ר אֵלֵ֨ינוּ֙ (1)Alternate translation: [because the man told us]
You will not see my face
Quote: לֹֽא־תִרְא֣וּ פָנַ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
See how you translated this quote in verse 3. Alternate translation: [that we cannot see him again] or [that we cannot go to him again to buy grain]
unless your brother {is} with you
Quote: בִּלְתִּ֖י אֲחִיכֶ֥ם אִתְּכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions
See how you translated this clause in verse 3. Alternate translation: [unless our youngest brother is with us!]
Genesis 43:6
Then Israel said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
If it is not clear that Israel (verse 6) and “their father” (verse 2) refer to the same person, you could include “their father” here in your translation or in a footnote. See what you did for a similar case in Gen 42:5.
Why did you treat me badly by telling
Quote: לָמָ֥ה הֲרֵעֹתֶ֖ם לִ֑י לְהַגִּ֣יד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Jacob uses a rhetorical question here to scold his sons and to show how upset he is. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: [Why did you cause distress for me by telling] or [You caused me a lot of distress because you told]
the man
Quote: לָאִ֔ישׁ (1)See how you translated the man in verses 3 and 5. Alternate translation: [that man] or [that governor]
you have yet {another} brother
Quote: הַע֥וֹד לָכֶ֖ם אָֽח (1)If you translate this rhetorical question as a statement, make sure that you end it with a period or exclamation point. Alternate translation: [that you have another brother!]
Genesis 43:7
The man asked persistently
Quote: שָׁא֣וֹל שָֽׁאַל־הָ֠אִישׁ (1)Alternate translation: [The man questioned us intensely] or [The man asked us many questions]
about us and our relatives, saying
Quote: לָ֣נוּ וּלְמֽוֹלַדְתֵּ֜נוּ לֵאמֹ֗ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
In verses 7-8, the pronouns “us,” “our,” and we are exclusive since they do not include Jacob (whom the sons are talking to). Alternate translation: [about ourselves and about the rest of our family]
Is your father still alive? Do you have {another} brother
Quote: הַע֨וֹד אֲבִיכֶ֥ם חַי֙ הֲיֵ֣שׁ לָכֶ֣ם אָ֔ח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Consider whether it is more natural in your language to translate this embedded quote with a direct or indirect quote. Alternate translation: [He specifically asked us whether our father was still alive and if we had another brother]
And we answered him according to those words
Quote: וַנַ֨גֶּד־ל֔וֹ עַל־פִּ֖י הַדְּבָרִ֣ים הָאֵ֑לֶּה (1)Alternate translation: [So we just answered his questions honestly] or [All we did was answer his questions]
How could we possibly know
Quote: הֲיָד֣וֹעַ נֵדַ֔ע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Jacob’s sons use a rhetorical question here to emphasize their innocence and express strong emotion. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: [We could not possibly have known]
that he would say, ‘Bring your brother down
Quote: כִּ֣י יֹאמַ֔ר הוֹרִ֖ידוּ אֶת־אֲחִיכֶֽם (1)If you translate this rhetorical question as a statement, make sure that you end it with a period or exclamation point. Alternate translation: [that he would tell us to bring our brother down there to him!]
Genesis 43:8
Then Judah said to Israel his father
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יְהוּדָ֜ה אֶל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֣ל אָבִ֗יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
For some languages it is necessary to make “Benjamin” explicit here in the quote margin so that it is clear that young man refers to him in the following quote. Do what is best in your language.
Send the young man with me
Quote: שִׁלְחָ֥ה הַנַּ֛עַר אִתִּ֖י (1)See how you translated young man in Gen 37:2; 41:12. Use a term here in your language that fits with the fact that Benjamin was probably in his 30’s. Alternate translation: [Allow the young man to come with me and I will watch over him]
and we will get up and go
Quote: וְנָק֣וּמָה וְנֵלֵ֑כָה (1)Alternate translation: [so we can leave right away to buy grain in Egypt]
so that both we and you and our little ones will live
Quote: וְנִֽחְיֶה֙ & גַּם־אֲנַ֥חְנוּ גַם־אַתָּ֖ה גַּם־טַפֵּֽנוּ (1)Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language. Also, see how you translated will live and not die in Gen 42:2. Alternate translation: [Then all of us, including our children, will survive] or [… can stay alive]
and not die
Quote: וְלֹ֣א נָמ֔וּת (1)Alternate translation: [and not die from hunger]
Genesis 43:9
I myself will guarantee him
Quote: אָֽנֹכִי֙ אֶֽעֶרְבֶ֔נּוּ (1)Alternate translation: [I personally guarantee to keep him safe] or [I personally guarantee his safety]
From my hand you can require him
Quote: מִיָּדִ֖י תְּבַקְשֶׁ֑נּוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated a similar idiom in Gen 31:39. Alternate translation: [You can make me liable for him]
If I do not bring him {back} to you and set him before you
Quote: אִם־לֹ֨א הֲבִיאֹתִ֤יו אֵלֶ֨יךָ֙ וְהִצַּגְתִּ֣יו לְפָנֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
Consider what is the best way to translate this hypothetical sentence in your language. Alternate translation: [so that if I do not bring him back home to you alive]
then I will have sinned against you
Quote: וְחָטָ֥אתִֽי לְךָ֖ (1)Alternate translation: [you can blame me for this sin]
all the days
Quote: כָּל־הַיָּמִֽים (1)Alternate translation: [all the days of my life] or [forever]
Genesis 43:10
Surely if we had not delayed
Quote: כִּ֖י לוּלֵ֣א הִתְמַהְמָ֑הְנוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
This sentence refers to something that could have happened, but did not actually happen. Consider what is the best way to translate this contrary-to-fact statement in your language. Alternate translation: [As it is, if we had not delayed such a long time] or [In any case, if we had not delayed this long]
surely we could have returned here twice by now
Quote: כִּֽי־עַתָּ֥ה שַׁ֖בְנוּ זֶ֥ה פַעֲמָֽיִם (1)Alternate translation: [certainly we could have made two round trips there and back by now] or [we certainly would have had enough time to go down there and back two times already]
Genesis 43:11
Then Israel their father said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר אֲלֵהֶ֜ם יִשְׂרָאֵ֣ל אֲבִיהֶ֗ם (1)See how you translated Israel their father in verse 8.
If {it must be} so
Quote: אִם־כֵּ֣ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Alternate translation: [If that is how it must be] or [Okay, if that is the only way we can get more grain]
then do this
Quote: אֵפוֹא֮ זֹ֣את עֲשׂוּ֒ (1)Alternate translation: [then this is what you must do:]
Take {some} of the choice produce of the land in your bags
Quote: קְח֞וּ מִזִּמְרַ֤ת הָאָ֨רֶץ֙ בִּכְלֵיכֶ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [Put some of the best goods from our land in your sacks] or [Put in your sacks some of the most valuable things that our land produces]
and take {it} down to the man
Quote: וְהוֹרִ֥ידוּ לָאִ֖ישׁ (1)Alternate translation: [and take them to the man in Egypt]
as} a gift
Quote: מִנְחָ֑ה (1)Consider what punctuation is best to use here in your language.
a little balm, and a little honey
Quote: מְעַ֤ט צֳרִי֙ וּמְעַ֣ט דְּבַ֔שׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
Consider what is the best way to make a list of things like this in your language. Also see how you translated balm in Gen 37:25. Alternate translation: [including some sweet-smelling tree sap, some honey] or [Include some healing salve, honey]
spices and myrrh
Quote: נְכֹ֣את וָלֹ֔ט (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
See how you translated spices and myrrh in Gen 37:25. Alternate translation: [some food spices and incense]
pistachio nuts and almonds
Quote: בָּטְנִ֖ים וּשְׁקֵדִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
Alternate translation: [and some sweet-tasting tree nuts]
Genesis 43:12
And take double the silver in your hand{s
Quote: וְכֶ֥סֶף מִשְׁנֶ֖ה קְח֣וּ בְיֶדְכֶ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [Also take with you twice as much silver as you took the first time]
because you must return in your hand{s} the silver
Quote: וְאֶת־הַכֶּ֜סֶף & תָּשִׁ֣יבוּ בְיֶדְכֶ֔ם (1)Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language. Alternate translation: [because you must give back the silver] or [You must give back the silver]
that was returned
Quote: הַמּוּשָׁ֨ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
Consider whether it is better in your language to use a passive or active clause here. Alternate translation: [that was given back to you by someone]
in the mouth of your sacks
Quote: בְּפִ֤י אַמְתְּחֹֽתֵיכֶם֙ (1)See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 42:27. Alternate translation: [in the top of your sacks]
Perhaps it {was} a mistake
Quote: אוּלַ֥י מִשְׁגֶּ֖ה הֽוּא (1)Alternate translation: [That might have happened by mistake] or [Maybe someone did that by mistake]
Genesis 43:13
So take your brother
Quote: וְאֶת־אֲחִיכֶ֖ם קָ֑חוּ (1)Alternate translation: [So then take your youngest brother]
and get up, return to the man
Quote: וְק֖וּמוּ שׁ֥וּבוּ אֶל־הָאִֽישׁ (1)See how you translated “get up and …” in verse 8. Alternate translation: [and return right away to the man] or [and immediately go back to the man]
Genesis 43:14
And may God Almighty give
Quote: וְאֵ֣ל שַׁדַּ֗י יִתֵּ֨ן (1)Alternate translation: [May Almighty God]
And may God Almighty give you mercies before the man
Quote: וְאֵ֣ל שַׁדַּ֗י יִתֵּ֨ן לָכֶ֤ם רַחֲמִים֙ לִפְנֵ֣י הָאִ֔ישׁ (1)Alternate translation: [be kind to you as you go before the man] or [cause the man to be kind to you] or [cause him to treat you mercifully]
and may he send
Quote: וְשִׁלַּ֥ח (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “so that he will” or “and I pray that the man/governor will” or (2) “and may he/God” or “and I pray that God will”
and may he send your other brother and Benjamin
Quote: וְשִׁלַּ֥ח & אֶת־אֲחִיכֶ֥ם אַחֵ֖ר וְאֶת־בִּנְיָמִ֑ין (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
Notice that other brother refers to Simeon, who is older or younger (and has the same or different mother) than his brothers that Israel is talking to here. Also see how you translated send in verses 4-5. Alternate translation: [allow your other brother and Benjamin to go] or [let your brothers Simeon and Benjamin go]
And I, if
Quote: וַאֲנִ֕י כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר (1)The pronoun I is emphatic here in the Hebrew text. If possible, keep that emphasis in your translation. Alternate translation: [As for me, if I]
I am bereaved, I am bereaved
Quote: שָׁכֹ֖לְתִּי שָׁכָֽלְתִּי (1)See how you translated bereaved in Gen 42:36. Alternate translation: [must be deprived of them, then I will be deprived] or [must suffer loss, then I will suffer loss]
Genesis 43:15
Then the men took that gift
Quote: וַיִּקְח֤וּ הָֽאֲנָשִׁים֙ אֶת־הַמִּנְחָ֣ה הַזֹּ֔את (1)See how you translated gift in verse 11 and in Gen 33:10-11. Alternate translation: [So the brothers packed those gifts in their sacks] or [So the brothers got all those gifts and packed them]
and they took double the silver in their hand{s
Quote: וּמִשְׁנֶה־כֶּ֛סֶף לָקְח֥וּ בְיָדָ֖ם (1)See how you translated this phrase in verse 12. Alternate translation: [along with twice as much silver as the grain would cost] or [and they also packed double the amount of silver that they needed to pay for the grain]
and Benjamin. Then they got up and went down {to} Egypt
Quote: וְאֶת־בִּנְיָמִ֑ן וַיָּקֻ֨מוּ֙ וַיֵּרְד֣וּ מִצְרַ֔יִם (1)See how you translated “get up and go” in verse 8. Alternate translation: [They also got Benjamin and together they immediately traveled down to the country of Egypt] or [Then they took Benjamin with them and immediately traveled down to the country of Egypt]
and stood before Joseph
Quote: וַיַּֽעַמְד֖וּ לִפְנֵ֥י יוֹסֵֽף (1)Alternate translation: [and presented themselves to Joseph] or [and came directly to Joseph]
Genesis 43:16
And Joseph saw Benjamin with them. Then he said
Quote: וַיַּ֨רְא יוֹסֵ֣ף אִתָּם֮ אֶת־בִּנְיָמִין֒ וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)Alternate translation: [Joseph saw Benjamin with the rest of his brothers. So he told] or [When Joseph saw Benjamin with his other brothers, he told]
to {the one} who {was} over his house
Quote: לַֽאֲשֶׁ֣ר עַל־בֵּית֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [the servant who managed his household]
Take the men to the house
Quote: הָבֵ֥א אֶת־הָאֲנָשִׁ֖ים הַבָּ֑יְתָה (1)Alternate translation: [Lead the men to my house]
and slaughter an animal
Quote: וּטְבֹ֤חַ טֶ֨בַח֙ (1)The Hebrew word for animal here is general and refers to an animal that was raised to be killed and eaten, such as a calf or goat. Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language. Alternate translation: [then kill one of my livestock] or [Then butcher an calf]
and prepare {a meal
Quote: וְהָכֵ֔ן (1)Alternate translation: [and cook the meat to prepare a meal] or [and prepare a feast with its meat]
because the men will eat with me at noon
Quote: כִּ֥י אִתִּ֛י יֹאכְל֥וּ הָאֲנָשִׁ֖ים בַּֽצָּהֳרָֽיִם (1)Alternate translation: [because I have planned that the men will eat the noon meal with me at my house]
Genesis 43:17
So the man did just as Joseph {had} said
Quote: וַיַּ֣עַשׂ הָאִ֔ישׁ כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֖ר אָמַ֣ר יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)Alternate translation: [The servant did exactly what Joseph had commanded him to do]
and the man brought
Quote: וַיָּבֵ֥א הָאִ֛ישׁ (1)Alternate translation: [and led]
the men to Joseph’s house
Quote: אֶת־הָאֲנָשִׁ֖ים בֵּ֥יתָה יוֹסֵֽף (1)Make sure that the way you translate this phrase does not sound like Joseph’s brothers went inside the house yet. They did not actually go inside until later (verse 24).
Genesis 43:18
and they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֗וּ (1)Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [Then they said to each other]
Because of the matter of the silver that was returned in our sacks the first time, we have been brought
Quote: עַל־דְּבַ֤ר הַכֶּ֨סֶף֙ הַשָּׁ֤ב בְּאַמְתְּחֹתֵ֨ינוּ֙ בַּתְּחִלָּ֔ה אֲנַ֖חְנוּ מֽוּבָאִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Alternate translation: [We have been brought here because of the money that was returned to us in our sacks the first time we came here] or [He has taken us here because of our silver that someone gave back to us in our sacks on our first trip here]
He wants} to roll himself over us and throw himself on us
Quote: לְהִתְגֹּלֵ֤ל עָלֵ֨ינוּ֙ וּלְהִתְנַפֵּ֣ל עָלֵ֔ינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Consider what is the best way to translate these idioms in your language. Alternate translation: [He is planning to seize us by force]
and take us as slaves
Quote: וְלָקַ֧חַת אֹתָ֛נוּ לַעֲבָדִ֖ים (1)Alternate translation: [and keep us as slaves] or [and make us his slaves]
and our donkeys
Quote: וְאֶת־חֲמֹרֵֽינוּ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [He will also take our donkeys!]
Genesis 43:19
Then they went near to
Quote: וַֽיִּגְּשׁוּ֙ אֶל (1)Alternate translation: [So they went up to] or [So they approached]
the man who {was} over Joseph’s house
Quote: הָאִ֔ישׁ אֲשֶׁ֖ר עַל־בֵּ֣ית יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)See how you translated a similar phrase in verse 16.
and spoke to him {at} the entrance of the house
Quote: וַיְדַבְּר֥וּ אֵלָ֖יו פֶּ֥תַח הַבָּֽיִת (1)Alternate translation: [to speak to him at the door to his house] or [outside the door to the house in order to speak to him]
Genesis 43:20
And they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֖וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [They said to him] or [One of them said to him on behalf of them all]
Please, my lord
Quote: בִּ֣י אֲדֹנִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
The brothers are asking the servant for permission to speak. Translate this in a way that is respectful in your language. Alternate translation: [Excuse me sir] or [Sir, please allow us to speak to you]
we surely came down {here} the first time to buy food
Quote: יָרֹ֥ד יָרַ֛דְנוּ בַּתְּחִלָּ֖ה לִשְׁבָּר־אֹֽכֶל (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [the previous time we came down here to Egypt, we came to buy some food] or [one time before this, we traveled all the way down here to Egypt and bought some food]
Genesis 43:21
But it happened
Quote: וַֽיְהִ֞י (1)This phrase introduces an important event and helps create suspense so that readers will wonder what the outcome will be. Many translations omit it happened because it is not natural in their language. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [But it so happened that]
when we came to the lodging place, we opened our sacks
Quote: כִּי־בָ֣אנוּ אֶל־הַמָּל֗וֹן וַֽנִּפְתְּחָה֙ אֶת־אַמְתְּחֹתֵ֔ינוּ (1)See how you translated the lodging place in Gen 42:27. Alternate translation: [when we arrived at the place where we stayed for the night, we opened our sacks]
and behold, {each} man’s silver {was} in the mouth of his sack
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֤ה כֶֽסֶף־אִישׁ֙ בְּפִ֣י אַמְתַּחְתּ֔וֹ (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. Also, see how you translated “in the mouth of … sacks” in verse 12. Alternate translation: [and we were surprised to see that our bags of money were in the top of each of our sacks!] or [There in the opening of each of our sacks was the silver we had given to you for the grain!]
our silver {was there} in its {full} weight
Quote: כַּסְפֵּ֖נוּ בְּמִשְׁקָל֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney
The silver was weighed in shekels (Gen 20:16; 23:15-16; 37:28) to determine how much to pay for something. See how you translated silver in Gen 42:25, 27, 35. Alternate translation: [The full weight of money was there!] or [The silver was all there!]
So we have brought it back
Quote: וַנָּ֥שֶׁב אֹת֖וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [But we brought it all back] or [So we brought all that money back]
in our hand{s
Quote: בְּיָדֵֽנוּ (1)Alternate translation: [with us to return to you]
Genesis 43:22
And we have brought down other silver
Quote: וְכֶ֧סֶף אַחֵ֛ר הוֹרַ֥דְנוּ (1)Alternate translation: [We also brought enough extra money with us] or [We have also brought additional money with us]
to buy food
Quote: לִשְׁבָּר־אֹ֑כֶל (1)Alternate translation: [so that we can buy some more food now]
who put our silver in our sacks
Quote: מִי־שָׂ֥ם כַּסְפֵּ֖נוּ בְּאַמְתְּחֹתֵֽינוּ (1)Alternate translation: [who gave that money back to us in our sacks] or [how our silver got into our sacks like that]
Genesis 43:23
Peace {be} to you
Quote: שָׁל֨וֹם לָכֶ֜ם (1)The phrase “Peace to you” is a blessing that wishes someone to be well and at peace. Consider whether your language has a similar blessing or possibly an idiom that would work well here. Alternate translation: [Be at peace, and] or [All is well for you, so] or [Everything is all right, so]
do not be afraid
Quote: אַל־תִּירָ֗אוּ (1)Alternate translation: [do not be anxious]
Your God and the God of your father
Quote: אֱלֹ֨הֵיכֶ֜ם וֵֽאלֹהֵ֤י אֲבִיכֶם֙ (1)Make sure that your translation of these phrases refers to the same God, not two different Gods. Alternate translation: [The God whom you and your father worship]
has given you hidden treasure in your sacks
Quote: נָתַ֨ן לָכֶ֤ם מַטְמוֹן֙ בְּאַמְתְּחֹ֣תֵיכֶ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [must have put the silver in your sacks]
your silver came to me
Quote: כַּסְפְּכֶ֖ם בָּ֣א אֵלָ֑י (1)Alternate translation: [because I definitely received the silver that you paid for the grain] or [because I know that you paid me money to pay for the grain]
Genesis 43:24
and they washed their feet
Quote: וַיִּרְחֲצ֣וּ רַגְלֵיהֶ֔ם (1)Consider again how you translated “wash … feet” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 18:4; 19:2; 24:32; 43:24. Alternate translation: [and they washed the dirt off their feet]
and he gave fodder to their donkeys
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֥ן מִסְפּ֖וֹא לַחֲמֹֽרֵיהֶֽם (1)Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language. Also, see how you translated fodder in Gen 42:27. Alternate translation: [and he provided feed for their donkeys]
Genesis 43:25
for Joseph’s arrival at noon
Quote: עַד־בּ֥וֹא יוֹסֵ֖ף בַּֽצָּהֳרָ֑יִם (1)Alternate translation: [to give to Joseph when he got home at noon]
because they had heard
Quote: כִּ֣י שָֽׁמְע֔וּ (1)Alternate translation: [because they had been told] or [because someone had told them]
that they would eat bread there
Quote: כִּי־שָׁ֖ם יֹ֥אכְלוּ לָֽחֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to put the last half of this verse at the beginning of the verse and say, “When Joseph’s brothers heard that they were going to eat the noon meal with Joseph at his house, they got their gifts ready to give him when he came/got home.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [that they were going to eat a meal with him there at his house]
Genesis 43:26
Then Joseph came to the house
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֤א יוֹסֵף֙ הַבַּ֔יְתָה (1)Alternate translation: [When Joseph came to his house] or [When Joseph got home]
and they brought to him the gift that {was} in their hand{s} into the house
Quote: וַיָּבִ֥יאּוּ ל֛וֹ אֶת־הַמִּנְחָ֥ה אֲשֶׁר־בְּיָדָ֖ם הַבָּ֑יְתָה (1)Alternate translation: [his brothers presented to him the gift that they had brought with them into the house]
and they bowed down to him to the ground
Quote: וַיִּשְׁתַּחֲווּ־ל֖וֹ אָֽרְצָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
See how you translated “bowed down … ground” in Gen 42:6. Alternate translation: [Then they bowed themselves down before him with their faces to the ground to show him honor] or [Then they prostrated themselves on the ground to respect him]
Genesis 43:27
Then he asked them about {their} wellbeing
Quote: וַיִּשְׁאַ֤ל לָהֶם֙ לְשָׁל֔וֹם (1)Alternate translation: [Then he greeted them]
and he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Consider whether or not it is more natural in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [He also asked them]
Are things} well {for} your aged father
Quote: הֲשָׁל֛וֹם אֲבִיכֶ֥ם הַזָּקֵ֖ן (1)Alternate translation: [Is your aged father doing well] or [Is your aged father in good health]
whom you spoke about
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר אֲמַרְתֶּ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [whom you spoke about to me before?]
Genesis 43:28
Things are} well for your servant our father. He {is} still alive
Quote: שָׁל֛וֹם לְעַבְדְּךָ֥ לְאָבִ֖ינוּ עוֹדֶ֣נּוּ חָ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
The brothers refer to their father as your servant here to show respect to Joseph and to acknowledge his high position. Translate this phrase in a polite way that shows respect toward Joseph. Also, the pronoun our is exclusive here because Joseph’s brothers did not yet know that they were talking to Joseph. Alternate translation: [Yes sir, our father, who highly respects you, is still alive and blessed]
Then they bowed
Quote: וַֽיִּקְּד֖וּ (1)In this verse, the terms bowed and bowed down translate two different Hebrew words that together describe and emphasize the process of bowing down to the ground. Alternate translation: [Then they knelt]
and bowed down
Quote: וַיִּֽשְׁתַּחֲוּֽוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
See how you translated bowed down in verse 26. Alternate translation: [and prostrated themselves in front of him again]
Genesis 43:29
Then he lifted his eyes and saw Benjamin his brother
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֣א עֵינָ֗יו וַיַּ֞רְא אֶת־בִּנְיָמִ֣ין אָחִיו֮ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
Benjamin was younger than Joseph. Also, consider again how you translated the idiom “lifted … eyes” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 13:10, 14; 18:2; 22:4, 13; 24:63-64; 31:10; 33:1, 5; 37:25; 39:7; 43:29. Alternate translation: [Then Joseph looked up and saw his brother Benjamin] or [When Joseph looked around at them all, he saw his brother Benjamin]
the son of his mother
Quote: בֶּן־אִמּוֹ֒ (1)Alternate translation: [who was the only other son of his own mother]
and he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [and he asked them]
Is this your youngest brother
Quote: הֲזֶה֙ אֲחִיכֶ֣ם הַקָּטֹ֔ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This question could be an actual question or a rhetorical question. The fact that Joseph does not wait for an answer suggests that this is a rhetorical question, especially since he already realized that the new brother in the group was Benjamin (verse 16). Alternate translation: [So this young man must be your youngest brother] or [I suppose this young man is your youngest brother]
whom you spoke to me {about
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר אֲמַרְתֶּ֖ם אֵלָ֑י (1)Make sure that your punctuation here fits with the way you translated this sentence, either as a question or a statement.
May God be gracious to you
Quote: אֱלֹהִ֥ים יָחְנְךָ֖ (1)See how you translated “God has been gracious to …” in Gen 33:11. Also see how you translated “grace” in 24:12, 14 ,27, 49; 39:21. Alternate translation: [I pray that God will be gracious to you]
my son
Quote: בְּנִֽי (1)The phrase my son is a kind way to address a man who is younger or of lower status; it does not mean that Benjamin was Joseph’s actual son. Also, for some languages it is necessary to put this address first in this quote. Do what is natural in your language.
Genesis 43:30
Then Joseph hurried out
Quote: וַיְמַהֵ֣ר יוֹסֵ֗ף (1)Alternate translation: [Then Joseph quickly left the room] or [Then Joseph rushed out of the room]
because his emotions boiled over for his brother
Quote: כִּֽי־נִכְמְר֤וּ רַחֲמָיו֙ אֶל־אָחִ֔יו (1)Alternate translation: [because he was feeling deeply emotional about his brother] or [because he felt overwhelmed with emotions for his brother]
and he sought to cry
Quote: וַיְבַקֵּ֖שׁ לִבְכּ֑וֹת (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “and desired/wanted to cry,” or “and felt like crying,” or “and was about to cry,” or (2) “and was looking for a place to cry,” or “and went to find a place to cry,”
and he went to the inner room
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֥א הַחַ֖דְרָה (1)Alternate translation: [so he went to his private room]
and cried there
Quote: וַיֵּ֥בְךְּ שָֽׁמָּה (1)Alternate translation: [so that he could cry there]
Genesis 43:31
Then he washed his face and came out. Then he controlled himself
Quote: וַיִּרְחַ֥ץ פָּנָ֖יו וַיֵּצֵ֑א וַיִּ֨תְאַפַּ֔ק (1)Alternate translation: [After a while, he stopped crying, washed the tears off his face and came out of his room]
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)For some languages it is more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [and told his servants] or [Then he told his servants]
Serve the bread
Quote: שִׂ֥ימוּ לָֽחֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The word bread refers to all the food they ate at this meal, not just bread. Alternate translation: [Serve the meal to us] or [It is time to serve the meal to us]
Genesis 43:32
So they served to him by himself
Quote: וַיָּשִׂ֥ימוּ ל֛וֹ לְבַדּ֖וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [Then they brought food to Joseph at his own table]
and to the Egyptians who were eating with him by themselves
Quote: וְלַמִּצְרִ֞ים הָאֹכְלִ֤ים אִתּוֹ֙ לְבַדָּ֔ם (1)For some languages it is more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [and the Egyptians who were eating as his guests at their own table] or [They also served food to some Egyptian guests at a separate table]
because Egyptians cannot eat bread with Hebrews, because that {is} an abomination to Egyptians
Quote: כִּי֩ לֹ֨א יוּכְל֜וּן הַמִּצְרִ֗ים לֶאֱכֹ֤ל אֶת־הָֽעִבְרִים֙ לֶ֔חֶם כִּי־תוֹעֵבָ֥ה הִ֖וא לְמִצְרָֽיִם (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also consider again how you translated Hebrews in the book of Genesis. See Gen 14:13, 39:14, 17; 40:15, 41:12; 43:32. Alternate translation: [Egyptians do not eat at the same table as Hebrew people, because they consider it detestable to do that] or [The servants did that, because Egyptians consider it unacceptable to eat with Hebrew people at the same table]
Genesis 43:33
before him
Quote: לְפָנָ֔יו (1)Alternate translation: [in front of him]
the firstborn according to his birthright and the youngest according to his youth
Quote: הַבְּכֹר֙ כִּבְכֹ֣רָת֔וֹ וְהַצָּעִ֖יר כִּצְעִרָת֑וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [according to their age order, from oldest to youngest] or [in the order of their ages, from the firstborn to the youngest]
and the men were astonished each to his neighbor
Quote: וַיִּתְמְה֥וּ הָאֲנָשִׁ֖ים אִ֥ישׁ אֶל־רֵעֵֽהוּ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [so they looked at each other in amazement] or [When they saw that, they were amazed and stared at one another]
Genesis 43:34
Then he served to them servings {of food} from before him
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֨א מַשְׂאֹ֜ת מֵאֵ֣ת פָּנָיו֮ אֲלֵהֶם֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
As a person of high position and status, Joseph probably had his servants serve the food rather doing it himself. Decide whether you want to make that information explicit in your translation or include it in a footnote. Alternate translation: [Then Joseph served his brothers food from his table]
but Benjamin’s serving was five times larger
Quote: וַתֵּ֜רֶב מַשְׂאַ֧ת בִּנְיָמִ֛ן & חָמֵ֣שׁ יָד֑וֹת (1)Alternate translation: [but the amount of food that was served to Benjamin was five times more]
than any of their servings
Quote: מִמַּשְׂאֹ֥ת כֻּלָּ֖ם (1)Alternate translation: [than the amount of food that was served to any of the rest of them]
And they drank and became drunk with him
Quote: וַיִּשְׁתּ֥וּ וַֽיִּשְׁכְּר֖וּ עִמּֽוֹ (1)The Hebrew verb for became drunk is the same word that is used in Gen 9:21 to describe Noah when he had drunk so much wine that he had fallen asleep. Here, it probably means that they had drunk enough wine that they were feeling happy and sociable. Alternate translation: [Then they ate food, drank wine and feasted with him] or [Then they feasted and drank wine freely with him until they were very merry]
Genesis 44
Genesis 44:1
the one} who {was} over his house
Quote: אֶת־אֲשֶׁ֣ר עַל־בֵּיתוֹ֮ (1)See how you translated this phrase in Gen 43:16. Alternate translation: [the servant who managed his household]
saying, “Fill the men’s sacks {with} food, as much as
Quote: לֵאמֹר֒ מַלֵּ֞א אֶת־אַמְתְּחֹ֤ת הָֽאֲנָשִׁים֙ אֹ֔כֶל כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר (1)These grain sacks were carried by the brother’s donkeys and were probably fairly large since donkeys are able to carry around 50 kilos (about 110 pounds).
they are able to carry
Quote: יוּכְל֖וּן שְׂאֵ֑ת (1)Alternate translation: [the bags can hold]
and put the silver of each {one} in the mouth of his sack
Quote: וְשִׂ֥ים כֶּֽסֶף־אִ֖ישׁ בְּפִ֥י אַמְתַּחְתּֽוֹ (1)See how you translated “silver/money” in Gen 42:25, 27-28. Alternate translation: [and put their grain money in the opening of their grain bags] or [and in the top of their sacks put the silver that each of them paid for the grain]
Genesis 44:2
And put my cup, the silver cup
Quote: וְאֶת־גְּבִיעִ֞י גְּבִ֣יעַ הַכֶּ֗סֶף תָּשִׂים֙ (1)Notice that this cup was made out of silver; it was not just silver in color. Alternate translation: [And put my cup, the one that is made of silver]
and his grain’s silver
Quote: וְאֵ֖ת כֶּ֣סֶף שִׁבְר֑וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [and his grain money] or [along with the silver that he paid for the grain]
So he did according to Joseph’s word that he spoke
Quote: וַיַּ֕עַשׂ כִּדְבַ֥ר יוֹסֵ֖ף אֲשֶׁ֥ר דִּבֵּֽר (1)See how you translated “according to … words” in Gen 43:7. Alternate translation: [So the servant did exactly as he had told him to do]
Genesis 44:3
The morning became light
Quote: הַבֹּ֖קֶר א֑וֹר (1)Alternate translation: [The next morning as it was becoming light] or [The next morning at dawn]
and the men were sent off, they and their donkeys
Quote: וְהָאֲנָשִׁ֣ים שֻׁלְּח֔וּ הֵ֖מָּה וַחֲמֹרֵיהֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
Consider what is the best way to translate this passive sentence in your language. Alternate translation: [the brothers were sent on their way with their donkeys by Joseph] or [Joseph sent the men on their way, along with their donkeys]
Genesis 44:4
They had left the city, they had not gone far
Quote: הֵ֠ם יָֽצְא֣וּ אֶת־הָעִיר֮ לֹ֣א הִרְחִיקוּ֒ (1)Alternate translation: [But after they left the city, before they had gone very far]
and Joseph said to {the one} who {was} over his house
Quote: וְיוֹסֵ֤ף אָמַר֙ לַֽאֲשֶׁ֣ר עַל־בֵּית֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [he told the servant who managed his household] or [he ordered his head-servant]
Get up
Quote: ק֥וּם (1)Alternate translation: [Immediately]
follow after the men
Quote: רְדֹ֖ף אַחֲרֵ֣י הָֽאֲנָשִׁ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [go after the men]
and {when} you overtake them
Quote: וְהִשַּׂגְתָּם֙ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [When you reach them]
then say to them
Quote: וְאָמַרְתָּ֣ אֲלֵהֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Make sure that the way you translate this quote margin fits with the way you translate the following rhetorical question. Alternate translation: [tell them]
Why have you repaid evil for good
Quote: לָ֛מָּה שִׁלַּמְתֶּ֥ם רָעָ֖ה תַּ֥חַת טוֹבָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Joseph’s servant uses this rhetorical question to scold the brothers and express his outrage. Consider what is the best way to communicate those things in your language. Alternate translation: [Why have you treated my master so badly when he was so good to you?] or [My master was very good to you. Why have you treated him so badly?] or [My master treated you so well, but in return you have treated him very badly!]
Genesis 44:5
Is this not what my lord drinks from
Quote: הֲל֣וֹא זֶ֗ה אֲשֶׁ֨ר יִשְׁתֶּ֤ה אֲדֹנִי֙ בּ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The servant uses this rhetorical question to further express his outrage about the missing cup. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: [Why do you have the cup that my master drinks from]
and what he indeed divines with
Quote: וְה֕וּא נַחֵ֥שׁ יְנַחֵ֖שׁ בּ֑וֹ (1)The word divines refers to the practice of interpreting omens (signs) or using supernatural means to find out things. See how you translated a similar term (“divination”) in Gen 30:27. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [It is the one he regularly uses for divination!]
You have done evil {in} what you have done
Quote: הֲרֵעֹתֶ֖ם אֲשֶׁ֥ר עֲשִׂיתֶֽם (1)The phrase you have done is repeated in this sentence for emphasis. Consider what is the best way to communicate that emphasis in your language. Alternate translation: [What you have done is very evil]
Genesis 44:6
Then he overtook them
Quote: וַֽיַּשִּׂגֵ֑ם (1)Consider again how you translated “overtake” or overtook in the book of Genesis. See Gen 19:19; 31:25; 44:4, 6.
and spoke those words to them
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֣ר אֲלֵהֶ֔ם אֶת־הַדְּבָרִ֖ים הָאֵֽלֶּה (1)Alternate translation: [he said to them what Joseph had told him to say]
Genesis 44:7
But they said to him
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֣וּ אֵלָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [But they exclaimed]
Why does my lord speak words like those
Quote: לָ֚מָּה יְדַבֵּ֣ר אֲדֹנִ֔י כַּדְּבָרִ֖ים הָאֵ֑לֶּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The brothers use this rhetorical question to express their shock at being accused of something they had not done. They also address the servant as my lord to show him respect. Decide what is the best way to communicate those things in your language. Alternate translation: [Master we do not know why you are saying that!]
Far be it from your servants to do
Quote: חָלִ֨ילָה֙ לַעֲבָדֶ֔יךָ מֵעֲשׂ֖וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
The brothers refer to themselves as your servants in order to show respect to Joseph’s head-servant. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: [We swear as your humble servants that we would never even think of doing] or [We would never even consider doing]
something like that
Quote: כַּדָּבָ֥ר הַזֶּֽה (1)Alternate translation: [such a thing!]
Genesis 44:8
Behold
Quote: הֵ֣ן (1)Alternate translation: [After all]
the silver that we found in the mouth of our sacks we brought back to you from the land of Canaan
Quote: כֶּ֗סֶף אֲשֶׁ֤ר מָצָ֨אנוּ֙ בְּפִ֣י אַמְתְּחֹתֵ֔ינוּ הֱשִׁיבֹ֥נוּ אֵלֶ֖יךָ מֵאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנָ֑עַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Consider what is the best way in your language to order the clauses in this sentence. Alternate translation: [we returned to you the money that we found in our grain sacks last time. We brought it all the way from our home in the land of Canaan!] or [as soon as we came back here from the land of Canaan, we returned to you the money we had discovered inside our grain sacks]
So how would we steal
Quote: וְאֵ֗יךְ נִגְנֹב֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The brothers use this rhetorical question to strongly emphasize that they would never steal from the servant’s master. Some languages must use a statement or exclamation here instead. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [So why would we ever take] or [So we would never take] or [So there is no reason that we would ever take]
silver or gold
Quote: כֶּ֖סֶף א֥וֹ זָהָֽב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The brothers are emphasizing that they would never steal anything from Joseph, especially not valuable things made out of gold or silver.
Genesis 44:9
Whoever of your servants is found with it
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר יִמָּצֵ֥א אִתּ֛וֹ מֵעֲבָדֶ֖יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
The brothers refer to themselves as your servants in order to show respect to Joseph’s head-servant. Alternate translation: [In fact, sir, if you discover that any of us does have the cup] or [If any one of us does have the cup, sir]
then he will die
Quote: וָמֵ֑ת (1)Alternate translation: [then he must die] or [then he should be executed] or [then you may kill that man]
and we also will be slaves for my lord
Quote: וְגַם־אֲנַ֕חְנוּ נִֽהְיֶ֥ה לַֽאדֹנִ֖י לַעֲבָדִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
See how you translated my lord in verse 7. Alternate translation: [and besides that, the rest of us will become servants for you, sir] or [and the rest of us, sir, will become your servants]
Genesis 44:10
Indeed now
Quote: גַּם־עַתָּ֥ה (1)Alternate translation: [So then] or [Very well then]
according to your words, so it {will be
Quote: כְדִבְרֵיכֶ֖ם כֶּן־ה֑וּא (1)Alternate translation: [based on what you have said I will do this:]
will be a slave for me
Quote: יִהְיֶה־לִּ֣י עָ֔בֶד (1)Alternate translation: [is the only one who will be my slave]
but you {others} will be blameless
Quote: וְאַתֶּ֖ם תִּהְי֥וּ נְקִיִּֽם (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [but the rest of you will be free to go]
Genesis 44:11
Then they each hurried and lowered his sack to the ground
Quote: וַֽיְמַהֲר֗וּ וַיּוֹרִ֛דוּ אִ֥ישׁ אֶת־אַמְתַּחְתּ֖וֹ אָ֑רְצָה (1)Alternate translation: [So each of them immediately lowered his bag of grain from his donkey to the ground] or [Then each of the men immediately took his grain sack off his donkey and put it on the ground]
and they each opened his sack
Quote: וַֽיִּפְתְּח֖וּ אִ֥ישׁ אַמְתַּחְתּֽוֹ (1)Alternate translation: [and each of them opened his own sack] or [and opened it]
Genesis 44:12
Then he searched
Quote: וַיְחַפֵּ֕שׂ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Consider what is the best way to refer to Joseph’s servant in verses 6, 10 and 12. Also see how you translated searched in Gen 31:35.
beginning with the oldest and ending with the youngest
Quote: בַּגָּד֣וֹל הֵחֵ֔ל וּבַקָּטֹ֖ן כִּלָּ֑ה (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [beginning with the oldest brother and finishing with the youngest one] or [He started with the oldest brother and continued until he came to the youngest one]
and the cup was found in Benjamin’s sack
Quote: וַיִּמָּצֵא֙ הַגָּבִ֔יעַ בְּאַמְתַּ֖חַת בִּנְיָמִֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
Consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language.
Genesis 44:13
Then they tore their clothes
Quote: וַֽיִּקְרְע֖וּ שִׂמְלֹתָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
See how you translated “tore … clothes in distress” in Gen 37:29, 34. Alternate translation: [In response to that, the brothers tore their clothes in grief]
and each {one} loaded up his donkey
Quote: וַֽיַּעֲמֹס֙ אִ֣ישׁ עַל־חֲמֹר֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to the brothers in each context throughout this chapter. Alternate translation: [Then each of them put his sack back on his own donkey] or [Then each of the men loaded up his own donkey again]
and they returned to the city
Quote: וַיָּשֻׁ֖בוּ הָעִֽירָה (1)Alternate translation: [and they all returned to the city] or [then they all turned around and went back to the city]
Genesis 44:14
and he was still there
Quote: וְה֖וּא עוֹדֶ֣נּוּ שָׁ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [Joseph was still there]
so they fell to the ground before him
Quote: וַיִּפְּל֥וּ לְפָנָ֖יו אָֽרְצָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [Then they prostrated themselves on the ground before him to show respect] or [So they bowed all the way to the ground in front of him to honor him]
Genesis 44:15
Then Joseph said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר לָהֶם֙ יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Make sure the way you translate this quote margin fits with the way you translate the following rhetorical question. Alternate translation: [Then Joseph told them]
What {is} this deed that you have done
Quote: מָֽה־הַמַּעֲשֶׂ֥ה הַזֶּ֖ה אֲשֶׁ֣ר עֲשִׂיתֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Joseph uses rhetorical questions in this verse to express anger and scold his brothers. Some languages must use strong statements or exclamations here instead. Do what is best in your language. See what you did for a similar case in Gen 20:9. Alternate translation: [Why did you do such a terrible thing?] or [You should never have done such a thing!]
that a man who {is} like me
Quote: כִּֽי & אִ֖ישׁ אֲשֶׁ֥ר כָּמֹֽנִי (1)Alternate translation: [that a ruler like me]
indeed divines
Quote: נַחֵ֧שׁ יְנַחֵ֛שׁ (1)See how you translated divines in verse 5. Alternate translation: [regularly practices divination!] or [could use divination to find out what you did!]
Genesis 44:16
And Judah said
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוּדָ֗ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Judah answered]
What can we say to my lord
Quote: מַה־נֹּאמַר֙ לַֽאדֹנִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Judah uses a series of rhetorical questions in this verse to express how upset he is about what has happened and to emphasize that there is nothing that they can say to convince Joseph that they are innocent. Consider what is the best way to communicate those things in your language.
What can we speak
Quote: מַה־נְּדַבֵּ֖ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Alternate translation: [We cannot explain this]
And how can we justify ourselves
Quote: וּמַה־נִּצְטַדָּ֑ק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Alternate translation: [We do not know how to show to you that we did not do this] or [There is no way we can show to you that we are innocent]
God has found out the sin of your servants
Quote: הָאֱלֹהִ֗ים מָצָא֙ אֶת־עֲוֺ֣ן עֲבָדֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Judah refers to himself and his brothers as your servants to show humility and to honor Joseph. Also, Judah is probably referring here to the sin of selling their brother Joseph into slavery years ago. You could include that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: [God has exposed our guilt for our past sin] or [God is punishing us, your humble servants, for our past sin] or [God is using this occasion to punish us for our past sin]
Behold, we {are} slaves for my lord
Quote: הִנֶּנּ֤וּ עֲבָדִים֙ לַֽאדֹנִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
Alternate translation: [Here we all are, ready to be servants for you, sir] or [So now, sir, we are all here to be your servants]
both we and {the one
Quote: גַּם־אֲנַ֕חְנוּ גַּ֛ם אֲשֶׁר (1)Alternate translation: [including the man]
the one} in whose hand the cup was found
Quote: אֲשֶׁר־נִמְצָ֥א הַגָּבִ֖יעַ בְּיָדֽוֹ (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: [who was found with your cup in his grain sack] or [in whose grain bag your house-servant found the cup] or [whom your house-servant found with your cup in his sack]
Genesis 44:17
But he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֕אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [But Joseph exclaimed]
Far be it from me to do that
Quote: חָלִ֣ילָה לִּ֔י מֵעֲשׂ֖וֹת זֹ֑את (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated “Far be it from …” in verse 7.
The man in whose hand the cup was found, he
Quote: הָאִ֡ישׁ אֲשֶׁר֩ נִמְצָ֨א הַגָּבִ֜יעַ בְּיָד֗וֹ ה֚וּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
See how you translated in whose hand the cup was found in verse 16. Alternate translation: [Only the one who was found with my cup in his bag] or [Only the man in whose bag my servant found the cup] or [Rather only the one whom my servant found with my cup in his bag]
will be a slave for me
Quote: יִהְיֶה־לִּ֣י עָ֔בֶד (1)Alternate translation: [will become my slave] or [will stay and serve me as a slave]
But you, go up in peace to your father
Quote: וְאַתֶּ֕ם עֲל֥וּ לְשָׁל֖וֹם אֶל־אֲבִיכֶֽם (1)The phrase go up refers to the fact that the land of Canaan was higher in elevation than the country of Egypt. Some translations leave up implied. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [But you others may return to your father in peace] or [As for the rest of you, you may go back home to your father without any trouble]
Genesis 44:18
Then Judah went near to him and said
Quote: וַיִּגַּ֨שׁ אֵלָ֜יו יְהוּדָ֗ה וַיֹּאמֶר֮ (1)See how you translated went near in Gen 43:19. Alternate translation: [Then Judah came up to Joseph and said]
Please, my lord
Quote: בִּ֣י אֲדֹנִי֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
Compare how you translated this phrase in Gen 43:20. Alternate translation: [Please, master] or [Excuse me, sir]
please let your servant speak a word in my lord’s ears
Quote: יְדַבֶּר־נָ֨א עַבְדְּךָ֤ דָבָר֙ בְּאָזְנֵ֣י אֲדֹנִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
Make sure your translation of your servant refers here to Judah, not to someone else. Throughout verses 18-34, Judah uses phrases such as “my lord,” “your servant,” and “your servants” to be polite and show respect to Joseph. At each point in these verses, make sure it is clear in your translation whom he is referring to. Alternate translation: [I humbly ask you to let me speak plainly to you] or [will you please allow me your humble servant to say something to you]
and do not let your anger burn against your servant
Quote: וְאַל־יִ֥חַר אַפְּךָ֖ בְּעַבְדֶּ֑ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Compare how you translated the idiom “his anger burned” in Gen 39:19. Alternate translation: [Please do not be angry at me]
since you {are} like
Quote: כִּ֥י כָמ֖וֹךָ (1)Alternate translation: [even though you are equal in rank to]
Pharaoh
Quote: כְּפַרְעֹֽה (1)Alternate translation: [the king himself]
Genesis 44:19
My lord asked
Quote: אֲדֹנִ֣י שָׁאַ֔ל (1)Alternate translation: [Sir, the last time we were here, you asked]
his servants
Quote: אֶת־עֲבָדָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Make sure it is clear in your translation of his servants that Judah is referring to himself and his brothers. Alternate translation: [us your humble servants]
saying, ‘Do you have a father or {another} brother
Quote: לֵאמֹ֑ר הֲיֵשׁ־לָכֶ֥ם אָ֖ב אוֹ־אָֽח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Consider whether it is better in your language to translate the embedded quotes in verses 19-23 as direct or indirect quotes. Alternate translation: [Is your father still alive? Do you have another brother?] or [whether our father was still alive and whether we had any other brothers]
Genesis 44:20
And we said to my lord
Quote: וַנֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אֶל־אֲדֹנִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [We answered you, sir, that]
We have an aged father
Quote: יֶשׁ־לָ֨נוּ֙ אָ֣ב זָקֵ֔ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Alternate translation: [our aged father is still alive]
and the youngest son of {his} old age
Quote: וְיֶ֥לֶד זְקֻנִ֖ים קָטָ֑ן (1)Alternate translation: [and with him is his youngest son whom our father had when he was already old]
But his brother is dead, so he is left by himself from his mother
Quote: וְאָחִ֨יו מֵ֜ת וַיִּוָּתֵ֨ר ה֧וּא לְבַדּ֛וֹ לְאִמּ֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
In this sentence, brother refers to an older brother from the same father and mother. Some languages have a special kinship term for that. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [That son is the only one left alive from his mother, since his brother died]
and his father loves him
Quote: וְאָבִ֥יו אֲהֵבֽוֹ (1)Alternate translation: [So his father loves him very much] or [So his father especially loves our youngest brother]
Genesis 44:21
Then you said to your servants
Quote: וַתֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אֶל־עֲבָדֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
Judah uses the humble term your servants to show respect and honor to someone of higher status and authority. Alternate translation: [Then you told us, who are your humble servants]
Bring him down to me, and I will set my eyes on him
Quote: הוֹרִדֻ֖הוּ אֵלָ֑י וְאָשִׂ֥ימָה עֵינִ֖י עָלָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
The verb “bring … down” refers to the fact that Egypt was lower in elevation than the region of Canaan. Some translations leave down implied. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Bring your youngest brother to me so that I can meet him] or [to bring our youngest brother here to you so that you can see him for yourself]
Genesis 44:22
And we said to my lord, ‘The young man is not able to leave his father
Quote: וַנֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אֶל־אֲדֹנִ֔י לֹא־יוּכַ֥ל הַנַּ֖עַר לַעֲזֹ֣ב אֶת־אָבִ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Alternate translation: [But we told you, sir, that the young man must not leave his father and come here]
because {if} he leaves his father, then he will die
Quote: וְעָזַ֥ב אֶת־אָבִ֖יו וָמֵֽת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Make sure the way you translate this clause fits with how you translated the previous clause, as either a direct or indirect quote. Alternate translation: [because if he did his father will die from anxiety]
Genesis 44:23
But you said to your servants
Quote: וַתֹּ֨אמֶר֙ אֶל־עֲבָדֶ֔יךָ (1)Alternate translation: [But you told us that]
If your youngest brother does not come down with you
Quote: אִם־לֹ֥א יֵרֵ֛ד אֲחִיכֶ֥ם הַקָּטֹ֖ן אִתְּכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Consider again whether to translate the embedded quotes in verses 19-23 as direct or indirect quotes. Alternate translation: [if our youngest brother did not come back here with us]
you will not see my face again
Quote: לֹ֥א תֹסִפ֖וּן לִרְא֥וֹת פָּנָֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Make sure that the way you translate this clause fits with how you translated the beginning of this verse, either as a direct or indirect quote. Alternate translation: [you would not allow us to see you again]
Genesis 44:24
Then it happened when we went up
Quote: וַיְהִי֙ כִּ֣י עָלִ֔ינוּ (1)The phrase, Then it happened introduces an important event and helps create suspense so that readers will wonder what the outcome will be. Many translations omit it happened because it is not natural in their language. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [So after we got back home again]
to your servant my father
Quote: אֶֽל־עַבְדְּךָ֖ אָבִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
See how you translated “your servant … father” in Gen 43:28. Alternate translation: [to my father, who is your humble servant] or [to my father, who highly respects you]
then we related to him
Quote: וַנַּ֨גֶּד־ל֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [we told him]
the words of my lord
Quote: אֵ֖ת דִּבְרֵ֥י אֲדֹנִֽי (1)Alternate translation: [what you had said to us]
Genesis 44:25
Then our father said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר אָבִ֑ינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
The pronouns our and us are exclusive here because they do not include Joseph.
Return, buy a little food for us
Quote: שֻׁ֖בוּ שִׁבְרוּ־לָ֥נוּ מְעַט־אֹֽכֶל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
The pronoun us is inclusive here because what Judah’s father (Jacob) had said included the brothers whom he was talking to. See how you translated this same quote in Gen 43:2. Alternate translation: [Go back to Egypt and buy some more grain for all of us]
Genesis 44:26
We cannot go down. {But} if our youngest brother is with us, then we will go
Quote: לֹ֥א נוּכַ֖ל לָרֶ֑דֶת אִם־יֵשׁ֩ אָחִ֨ינוּ הַקָּטֹ֤ן אִתָּ֨נוּ֙ וְיָרַ֔דְנוּ (1)See how you translated “… down” in verses 21 and 23. Alternate translation: [We can only go down there if our youngest brother is with us]
For we are not able to see the man’s face
Quote: כִּי־לֹ֣א נוּכַ֗ל לִרְאוֹת֙ פְּנֵ֣י הָאִ֔ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The phrase the man’s face refers to the governor (Joseph) himself. Translate this in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [We will not be allowed to go to the man who sells grain there] or [The man who sells grain there will not permit us to see him again]
Genesis 44:27
Then your servant my father said to us
Quote: וַיֹּ֛אמֶר עַבְדְּךָ֥ אָבִ֖י אֵלֵ֑ינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
See how you translated your servant my father in verse 24. Also notice that the pronoun us does not include Joseph here. Some languages use an exclusive pronoun for this. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Then my father who is your humble servant said to us] or [Then my father said to us]
You know that
Quote: אַתֶּ֣ם יְדַעְתֶּ֔ם כִּ֥י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
The pronoun “you” is plural here, referring to all the brothers. Alternate translation: [As you all know]
my wife bore two {sons} for me
Quote: שְׁנַ֖יִם יָֽלְדָה־לִּ֥י אִשְׁתִּֽי (1)Alternate translation: [my wife Rachel bore only two sons for me]
Genesis 44:28
And the one went away from me
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֤א הָֽאֶחָד֙ מֵֽאִתִּ֔י (1)Alternate translation: [One of those sons left here one day] or [One of them has disappeared]
and I have said, “He was surely torn to pieces,” and I have not seen him until now
Quote: וָאֹמַ֕ר אַ֖ךְ טָרֹ֣ף טֹרָ֑ף וְלֹ֥א רְאִיתִ֖יו עַד־הֵֽנָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this doubly embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote. Also see how you translated “torn. … to pieces” in Gen 37:33. Alternate translation: [I have thought that he must have been killed and torn to pieces by a fierce animal. I have never seen him again] or [and I have not seen him since then. I am sure that a fierce animal must have killed him and torn him apart]
Genesis 44:29
So {if} you also take this {one} from my presence
Quote: וּלְקַחְתֶּ֧ם גַּם־אֶת־זֶ֛ה מֵעִ֥ם פָּנַ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
Consider what is the best way to translate the hypothetical sentence in this verse. Make sure all the parts of the sentence fit together well. Alternate translation: [So if you also take this son away from me]
and harm were to meet him
Quote: וְקָרָ֣הוּ אָס֑וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 42:38. Alternate translation: [and something terrible happens to him] or [and if anything bad happens to him]
then you would bring my gray head down in misery
Quote: וְהֽוֹרַדְתֶּ֧ם אֶת־שֵׂיבָתִ֛י בְּרָעָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated bring my gray head down in Gen 42:38. Alternate translation: [you will cause me, your elderly father, to grieve so deeply that I will die and go down] or [you will cause me, your elderly father, so much sorrow that I will die and go down]
to Sheol
Quote: שְׁאֹֽלָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
Sheol is the Hebrew name for the world of the dead, that is, the place where the spirits of all people go after they die. You could put that information in a footnote. Your translation of Sheol should not refer to hell or a place of punishment. Some translations have “the grave” here, but that leaves out the idea of an afterlife that this sentence implies.
Genesis 44:30
And now
Quote: וְעַתָּ֗ה (1)This phrase introduces the conclusion to what Judah said in verses 24-29. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language. Alternate translation: [So then]
when I go to your servant my father
Quote: כְּבֹאִי֙ אֶל־עַבְדְּךָ֣ אָבִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
See how you translated your servant my father in verses 24 and 27. Alternate translation: [when we return home to my father, who highly respects you] or [if I go home to my father, sir]
since his soul is bound to his soul
Quote: וְנַפְשׁ֖וֹ קְשׁוּרָ֥ה בְנַפְשֽׁוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This idiom reflects how close the relationship was between Judah’s father and youngest brother. Consider what is the best way to say this in your language. Alternate translation: [since our father is deeply attached to his son]
Genesis 44:31
then it will happen when he sees that the young man is not {there}, then he will die
Quote: וְהָיָ֗ה כִּרְאוֹת֛וֹ כִּי־אֵ֥ין הַנַּ֖עַר וָמֵ֑ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
The phrase then it will happen introduces an important hypothetical event here and helps create suspense so that readers will wonder what the outcome will be. Many translations omit the phrase because it is not natural in their language. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [if he sees that his son is gone he will die!] or [then he will die when he sees that his youngest son is not with us!]
And your servants will bring the gray head of your servant our father down in sorrow
Quote: וְהוֹרִ֨ידוּ עֲבָדֶ֜יךָ אֶת־שֵׂיבַ֨ת עַבְדְּךָ֥ אָבִ֛ינוּ בְּיָג֖וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
Consider what is the best way to translate this hypothetical situation in your language. Also, see how you translated “bring … gray head down in sorrow to Sheol” in Gen 42:38, and a similar phrase in 44:29. Alternate translation: [Yes, we would bring our elderly father so much sorrow that he would die and go] or [In that way, we would be responsible for bringing our elderly father …]
to Sheol
Quote: שְׁאֹֽלָה (1)Consider again how you translated Sheol in the book of Genesis. See Gen 37:35; 42:38; 44:29, 31.
Genesis 44:32
For your servant guaranteed the young man to my father, saying
Quote: כִּ֤י עַבְדְּךָ֙ עָרַ֣ב אֶת־הַנַּ֔עַר מֵעִ֥ם אָבִ֖י לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)See how you translated the verb “guarantee” in Gen 43:9. Alternate translation: [Besides that, sir, I guaranteed my father that I would return his son to him safely. I told him that]
If I do not bring him {back} to you
Quote: אִם־לֹ֤א אֲבִיאֶ֨נּוּ֙ אֵלֶ֔יךָ (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.
then I will have sinned against my father
Quote: וְחָטָ֥אתִי לְאָבִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
See how you translated a similar clause in Gen 43:9. Alternate translation: [then this would be a terrible sin against him]
all the days
Quote: כָּל־הַיָּמִֽים (1)Be consistent here with your choice in Gen 43:9. Alternate translation: [all the days of my life] or [for the rest of my life]
Genesis 44:33
And now
Quote: וְעַתָּ֗ה (1)This phrase introduces the conclusion to what Judah said in verses 30-32. See how you translated this phrase in verse 30. Alternate translation: [So now]
please let your servant stay
Quote: יֵֽשֶׁב־נָ֤א עַבְדְּךָ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
Consider again how you translated your servant and “your servants” throughout this chapter. See verses 7, 9, 18, 24, 27, 30-32. Alternate translation: [I urge you to allow me your servant to be the one to stay here] or [sir, I urge you to let me stay here]
as} a slave for my lord
Quote: עֶ֖בֶד לַֽאדֹנִ֑י (1)Throughout this chapter, the same Hebrew word is translated as slave when the context has negative connotations (verses 9-10, 16-17, 33), but is translated as servant when the context has more positive connotations (verses 7, 9, 16, 18-19, 21, 23-24, 27, 30-32). Do what is best in your language in each context. Alternate translation: [as a slave for you] or [and be your servant]
instead of
Quote: תַּ֣חַת (1)Alternate translation: [to take the place of]
Genesis 44:34
For how will I go up
Quote: כִּי־אֵיךְ֙ אֶֽעֱלֶ֣ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Judah uses this rhetorical question to emphasize how difficult it would be for him to return to his father without his brother. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: [I could never]
will I go up to my father
Quote: אֶֽעֱלֶ֣ה אֶל־אָבִ֔י (1)Consider again how you translated “… up” in verses 17, 24, 33-34. Contrast that to how you translated “… down” in verses 21, 23, and 26. Some translations leave up or “down” implied. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [return home to my father]
if the young man is not with me
Quote: וְהַנַּ֖עַר אֵינֶ֣נּוּ אִתִּ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
Alternate translation: [if our youngest brother is not with me!]
I fear to see
Quote: פֶּ֚ן אֶרְאֶ֣ה (1)Alternate translation: [I do not want to see]
the misery that would find my father
Quote: בָרָ֔ע אֲשֶׁ֥ר יִמְצָ֖א אֶת־אָבִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
See how you translated misery in verse 29. Alternate translation: [the terrible grief that it would cause my father!] or [how much my father would grieve!]
Genesis 45
Genesis 45:1
Then Joseph was not able
Quote: וְלֹֽא־יָכֹ֨ל יוֹסֵ֜ף (1)Alternate translation: [When Joseph heard what Judah said, he was no longer able to]
to control himself
Quote: לְהִתְאַפֵּ֗ק (1)Alternate translation: [hide his feelings]
before all who were standing by him
Quote: לְכֹ֤ל הַנִּצָּבִים֙ עָלָ֔יו (1)Make sure that your translation of this phrase refers to Joseph’s servants, not his brothers. Alternate translation: [in front of all his servants who were with him] or [in front of all his attendants]
and he called out
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֕א (1)Alternate translation: [and he shouted to them] or [so he said loudly to them]
Have every man leave
Quote: הוֹצִ֥יאוּ כָל־אִ֖ישׁ (1)Alternate translation: [All of you, leave]
So no man stood with him when Joseph revealed himself to his brothers
Quote: וְלֹא־עָ֤מַד אִישׁ֙ אִתּ֔וֹ בְּהִתְוַדַּ֥ע יוֹסֵ֖ף אֶל־אֶחָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Make sure your use of nouns or pronouns to refer to Joseph and his brothers here is clear and natural in your language. Alternate translation: [So Joseph was alone with his brothers when he made himself known to them] or [Immediately his servants left the room, so that no one else was with him when he told his brothers who he was]
Genesis 45:2
And he gave his voice in crying
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֥ן אֶת־קֹל֖וֹ בִּבְכִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Consider whether your language has an idiom such as gave his voice in crying. Also see how you translated “cried” in Gen 42:24; 43:30. Alternate translation: [Then he raised his voice and cried loudly so that]
and the Egyptians heard, and the house of Pharaoh heard
Quote: וַיִּשְׁמְע֣וּ מִצְרַ֔יִם וַיִּשְׁמַ֖ע בֵּ֥ית פַּרְעֹֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word house refers here to Pharaoh’s family members and servants, not a literal building.
Genesis 45:3
Then Joseph said to his brothers
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יוֹסֵ֤ף אֶל־אֶחָיו֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
In this chapter, the word brothers refers to Joseph’s older brothers (from different mothers) and his younger brother (from the same mother). Alternate translation: [Then Joseph exclaimed to his brothers in their language]
I {am} Joseph
Quote: אֲנִ֣י יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Alternate translation: [I am Joseph, your brother!]
Is my father still alive
Quote: הַע֥וֹד אָבִ֖י חָ֑י (1)Joseph uses my father to emphasize his relationship with his father. Make sure your translation does not sound like he had a different father than his brothers. Alternate translation: [Is our father still alive?]
But his brothers were not able to answer him
Quote: וְלֹֽא־יָכְל֤וּ אֶחָיו֙ לַעֲנ֣וֹת אֹת֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [His brothers could not say a word]
because they were terrified at his presence
Quote: כִּ֥י נִבְהֲל֖וּ מִפָּנָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is necessary to put this clause earlier in this sentence and say, “But his brothers were so terrified to see him that they could not answer him.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [because they were shocked to realize that they were in his presence]
Genesis 45:4
Please come close to me
Quote: גְּשׁוּ־נָ֥א אֵלַ֖י (1)Alternate translation: [Please come near to me]
So they came close, and he said
Quote: וַיִּגָּ֑שׁוּ וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Alternate translation: [When they went closer to him, he said to them] or [After they did that, he said to them]
I {am} Joseph your brother
Quote: אֲנִי֙ יוֹסֵ֣ף אֲחִיכֶ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [I truly am your brother Joseph]
whom you sold into Egypt
Quote: אֲשֶׁר־מְכַרְתֶּ֥ם & מִצְרָֽיְמָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Joseph’s brothers sold him to slave traders who were going to Egypt. If necessary, you could make some of that information explicit in your translation. Alternate translation: [whom you sold as a slave that was taken here to Egypt]
Genesis 45:5
do not be grieved
Quote: אַל־תֵּעָ֣צְב֗וּ (1)Alternate translation: [do not be distressed]
and do not let it burn in your eyes
Quote: וְאַל־יִ֨חַר֙ בְּעֵ֣ינֵיכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Consider again how you translated various idioms for “anger” or “be angry” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 4:5-6; 30:2; 31:35-36; 34:7; 44:18; 45:5. It may be necessary to translate these idioms in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [or angry at yourselves]
that you sold me here
Quote: כִּֽי־מְכַרְתֶּ֥ם אֹתִ֖י הֵ֑נָּה (1)Alternate translation: [that you sold me and caused me to be a slave here] or [for selling me as a slave]
because God sent me
Quote: כִּ֣י & שְׁלָחַ֥נִי אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)Alternate translation: [because God sent me here]
ahead of you
Quote: לִפְנֵיכֶֽם (1)Alternate translation: [before you got here]
for the preservation of life
Quote: לְמִֽחְיָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
Alternate translation: [to keep many people from dying]
Genesis 45:6
For this {is} two years
Quote: כִּי־זֶ֛ה שְׁנָתַ֥יִם (1)Alternate translation: [The past two years]
the famine {has been} in the midst of the land
Quote: הָרָעָ֖ב בְּקֶ֣רֶב הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)See how you translated famine in Gen 12:10. Alternate translation: [there has been a famine throughout this country] or [a famine has been affecting this whole region]
and {there are} still five years {in} which
Quote: וְעוֹד֙ חָמֵ֣שׁ שָׁנִ֔ים אֲשֶׁ֥ר (1)Alternate translation: [and for another five years it will be so bad that] or [and during the next five years it will be even worse, so that] or [and there will be five more years when]
there will} not be plowing and harvesting
Quote: אֵין־חָרִ֖ישׁ וְקָצִּֽיר (1)Alternate translation: [there will be no plowing of fields or harvesting of crops]
Genesis 45:7
But God sent me
Quote: וַיִּשְׁלָחֵ֤נִי אֱלֹהִים֙ (1)Alternate translation: [God caused me to come here]
ahead of you
Quote: לִפְנֵיכֶ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [before you got here]
to preserve a remnant for you
Quote: לָשׂ֥וּם לָכֶ֛ם שְׁאֵרִ֖ית (1)Alternate translation: [so that you will have descendants living] or [to help you survive and have descendants]
on the earth
Quote: בָּאָ֑רֶץ (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) on the earth or (2) “in the/this land”
and to keep you alive
Quote: וּלְהַחֲי֣וֹת לָכֶ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [by helping you stay live] or [by saving your lives]
by a great deliverance
Quote: לִפְלֵיטָ֖ה גְּדֹלָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is better to put the last two phrases earlier in this sentence and say, “But God sent me ahead of you to save your lives in this amazing way so that you will survive and have descendants on the earth.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [through his amazing rescue] or [in this powerful way]
Genesis 45:8
it was} not you
Quote: לֹֽא־אַתֶּ֞ם (1)Alternate translation: [you are not the ones]
who} sent me here
Quote: שְׁלַחְתֶּ֤ם אֹתִי֙ הֵ֔נָּה (1)Alternate translation: [who brought me here]
but God
Quote: כִּ֖י הָאֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [but rather it was God who brought me] or [but rather God is the one who did it]
And he has made me father to Pharaoh
Quote: וַיְשִׂימֵ֨נִֽי לְאָ֜ב לְפַרְעֹ֗ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Joseph was like a father to Pharaoh in that Pharaoh highly honored him and Joseph took care of Pharaoh’s household and all their needs. Alternate translation: [He has even made me like a father to King Pharaoh]
and lord over all his house
Quote: וּלְאָדוֹן֙ לְכָל־בֵּית֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated lord in Gen 42:30, 33, and how you translated house in Gen 41:40. Alternate translation: [so that I am the master of his entire household]
and the ruler
Quote: וּמֹשֵׁ֖ל (1)Alternate translation: [and also the highest official]
in all the land of Egypt
Quote: בְּכָל־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)Alternate translation: [in the whole country of Egypt]
Genesis 45:9
Hurry and go up
Quote: מַהֲרוּ֮ וַעֲל֣וּ (1)In this verse, the words up and down reflect the fact that Canaan was higher in elevation than Egypt. Many languages leave those words implied. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Hurry up] or [Leave quickly and go back] or [Return quickly]
to my father
Quote: אֶל־אָבִי֒ (1)See how you translated my father in verse 3.
and say to him, ‘This {is what} your son Joseph says
Quote: וַאֲמַרְתֶּ֣ם אֵלָ֗יו כֹּ֤ה אָמַר֙ בִּנְךָ֣ יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Consider whether it is best in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote.
God has made me lord over all Egypt
Quote: שָׂמַ֧נִי אֱלֹהִ֛ים לְאָד֖וֹן לְכָל־מִצְרָ֑יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Consider whether it is best in your language to translate this doubly embedded quote (which continues through verse 11) as a direct or indirect quote. An example of an indirect quote would be: “God has made him the ruler over all Egypt. He urges you to come down there to live near him, without delay. He also says that you and your family may live in Goshen Province and that way you will live near him … He will provide for you there …” Alternate translation: [God has made me ruler over the entire country of Egypt]
do not delay
Quote: אַֽל־תַּעֲמֹֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to put this clause first in this sentence and say, “So please do not take very long, but rather come down/here quickly to live near me.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [and do not wait] or [and do not take very long to come]
Genesis 45:10
And you will live
Quote: וְיָשַׁבְתָּ֣ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The pronouns you and your in this verse are singular, but Joseph’s message to his father includes the whole family. Alternate translation: [You and your family may live]
in the land of Goshen
Quote: בְאֶֽרֶץ־גֹּ֗שֶׁן (1)Goshen was a region or territory that was part of the country of Egypt. Make sure your translation of land does not sound like Goshen was its own country. Alternate translation: [in the region of Goshen] or [in Goshen County]
so that you will be near to me
Quote: וְהָיִ֤יתָ קָרוֹב֙ אֵלַ֔י (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [and that way you can be near me] or [That way you can live close to me]
and your flocks and your herds
Quote: וְצֹאנְךָ֥ וּבְקָרְךָ֖ (1)Alternate translation: [as well as all your domestic animals]
and all that {belongs} to you
Quote: וְכָל־אֲשֶׁר־לָֽךְ (1)Alternate translation: [and all your other belongings]
Genesis 45:11
And I will provide for you there
Quote: וְכִלְכַּלְתִּ֤י אֹֽתְךָ֙ שָׁ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [I will support you there]
because {there are} still five years of famine
Quote: כִּי־ע֛וֹד חָמֵ֥שׁ שָׁנִ֖ים רָעָ֑ב (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, “There are still five more years of famine ahead/coming, so I will provide for you there in Goshen.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [since there are still five more years of famine ahead] or [because the famine will last five more years]
so that you will not become impoverished, you and your household and all that {belongs} to you
Quote: פֶּן־תִּוָּרֵ֛שׁ אַתָּ֥ה וּבֵֽיתְךָ֖ וְכָל־אֲשֶׁר־לָֽךְ (1)The verb become impoverished can include losing livestock, other belongings, and the lives of their servants and family members. Alternate translation: [That way you and your extended family will not become poor and die] or [Please come so that the famine does not cause you and your family to lose everything you own and die]
Genesis 45:12
And behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֤ה (1)Make sure it is clear in your translation that Joseph’s message to his father was completed in verse 11, and that here in verse 12 he is talking directly to his brothers again. Alternate translation: [Now look] or [Then Joseph said to his brothers, Look!]
your eyes
Quote: עֵֽינֵיכֶם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The word eyes is used figuratively here (and in the next phrase) to refer to the persons themselves; it also emphasizes the fact that they were seeing Joseph in person. Consider what is the best way to translate this phrase in your language. Alternate translation: [I can tell that all of you]
and the eyes of my brother Benjamin
Quote: וְעֵינֵ֖י אָחִ֣י בִנְיָמִ֑ין (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
See how you translated brother in Gen 43:29.
see that {it is} my mouth
Quote: רֹא֔וֹת & כִּי־פִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here the phrase my mouth refers to Joseph himself; it also emphasizes the fact that it was Joseph himself who was talking to them. Consider what is the best way to translate this figure of speech in your language. Alternate translation: [can see that I Joseph am the one]
Genesis 45:13
So report to my father
Quote: וְהִגַּדְתֶּ֣ם לְאָבִ֗י (1)Alternate translation: [So go and tell my father]
all my glory in Egypt
Quote: אֶת־כָּל־כְּבוֹדִי֙ בְּמִצְרַ֔יִם (1)Alternate translation: [about my high position in Egypt] or [about how honored I am in Egypt]
Then hurry and bring my father down here
Quote: וּמִֽהַרְתֶּ֛ם וְהוֹרַדְתֶּ֥ם אֶת־אָבִ֖י הֵֽנָּה (1)See how you translated down in verse 9. Alternate translation: [Then hurry and bring him down here to me] or [Then quickly bring him here to me]
Genesis 45:14
Then he fell on the neck of Benjamin his brother
Quote: וַיִּפֹּ֛ל עַל־צַוְּארֵ֥י בִנְיָמִֽן־אָחִ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom “fell on his neck” in Gen 33:4. Alternate translation: [Then Joseph hugged his brother Benjamin strongly]
and cried
Quote: וַיֵּ֑בְךְּ (1)Alternate translation: [and started crying because he was so happy]
and Benjamin cried on his neck
Quote: וּבִנְיָמִ֔ן בָּכָ֖ה עַל־צַוָּארָֽיו (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [Benjamin also cried as he hugged him back]
Genesis 45:15
Then he kissed all his brothers
Quote: וַיְנַשֵּׁ֥ק לְכָל־אֶחָ֖יו (1)See how you translated “kissed … on the cheeks” in Gen 33:4. Alternate translation: [Next Joseph kissed all his brothers on their cheeks] or [Next Joseph greeted all his brothers with a kiss on their cheeks]
and cried over them
Quote: וַיֵּ֣בְךְּ עֲלֵיהֶ֑ם (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, “Then as Joseph continued to cry, he kissed all his brothers on the/their cheeks.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [with tears of joy]
And after that his brothers talked with him
Quote: וְאַ֣חֲרֵי כֵ֔ן דִּבְּר֥וּ אֶחָ֖יו אִתּֽוֹ (1)Previously Joseph’s brothers had been too afraid to speak (verse 3). Now they felt free to start talking to him.
Genesis 45:16
The brothers of Joseph have come
Quote: בָּ֖אוּ אֲחֵ֣י יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Consider whether it is better to use a direct or indirect quote here in your language.
And it was good in the eyes of Pharaoh and in the eyes of his servants
Quote: וַיִּיטַב֙ בְּעֵינֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֔ה וּבְעֵינֵ֖י עֲבָדָֽיו (1)Alternate translation: [it was pleasing to Pharaoh and all his officials] or [Pharaoh and all his officials were pleased]
Genesis 45:17
Then Pharaoh said to Joseph
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר פַּרְעֹה֙ אֶל־יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then Pharaoh told Joseph] or [Then Pharaoh gave these instructions to Joseph:]
Say to your brothers, ‘Do this: Load your animals
Quote: אֱמֹ֥ר אֶל־אַחֶ֖יךָ זֹ֣את עֲשׂ֑וּ טַֽעֲנוּ֙ אֶת־בְּעִ֣ירְכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
These animals were donkeys (Gen 43:18, 44:3), not any other kind of animal. Also, consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote with a direct or indirect quote. Alternate translation: [Tell your brothers to load their pack animals with grain]
and leave; go
Quote: וּלְכוּ־בֹ֖אוּ (1)The two verbs leave and go emphasize that Joseph’s brothers should go back immediately to their father in Canaan. Alternate translation: [and quickly return]
to the land of Canaan
Quote: אַ֥רְצָה כְּנָֽעַן (1)Alternate translation: [to region of Canaan]
Genesis 45:18
Then get your father and your households, and come to me
Quote: וּקְח֧וּ אֶת־אֲבִיכֶ֛ם וְאֶת־בָּתֵּיכֶ֖ם וּבֹ֣אוּ אֵלָ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Make sure it is clear in your translation that verse 18 is still part of Pharaoh’s message to Joseph’s brothers. Also make sure the pronouns that you use throughout verses 17 and 18 fit with whether you translate this embedded quote with a direct or indirect quote. Alternate translation: [Then tell them to bring their father and their families back here to me]
and I will give to you
Quote: וְאֶתְּנָ֣ה לָכֶ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [I will give them]
the best of the land of Egypt
Quote: אֶת־טוּב֙ אֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֔יִם (1)Alternate translation: [the best land in the country of Egypt to live in]
and you will eat the fat of the land
Quote: וְאִכְל֖וּ אֶת־חֵ֥לֶב הָאָֽרֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This idiom means that they would live comfortably with the best of everything; it does not just refer to food. Consider whether or not you have a similar idiom in your language.
Genesis 45:19
And you are commanded
Quote: וְאַתָּ֥ה צֻוֵּ֖יתָה (1)The pronoun you is singular here and refers to Joseph. This clause is not part of Pharaoh’s message to Joseph’s brothers (verses 17-20). Make sure that is clear in your translation. Alternate translation: [You are also directed to tell them]
Do this: Take carts with you
Quote: זֹ֣את עֲשׂ֑וּ קְחוּ־לָכֶם֩ & עֲגָל֗וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
These carts or wagons had two or four wheels and were pulled by animals such as oxen or donkeys. Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote with a direct or indirect quote. See what you did for a similar case in verses 17-18. Alternate translation: [Take some of my carts with you] or [to take some of my carts with them]
for your little ones and for your wives
Quote: לְטַפְּכֶם֙ וְלִנְשֵׁיכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural (and respectful) to put wives before little ones in this phrase. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated little ones in Gen 43:8. Alternate translation: [for your young children and wives to ride in] or [for your wives and young children to ride in]
and get your father and come
Quote: וּנְשָׂאתֶ֥ם אֶת־אֲבִיכֶ֖ם וּבָאתֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Make sure the pronouns you use throughout verses 19 and 20 fit with whether you translate the embedded quote with a direct or indirect quote. Also see how you translated get your father in verse 18. Alternate translation: [then bring them and your father back here to live] or [Then tell them to bring their father and their families back here to live]
Genesis 45:20
And do not let your eyes grieve
Quote: וְעֵ֣ינְכֶ֔ם אַל־תָּחֹ֖ס (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Alternate translation: [And do not be concerned] or [You should not worry]
over your belongings
Quote: עַל־כְּלֵיכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Alternate translation: [about leaving some of your belongings behind] or [if you have to leave behind some of your possessions]
because the best of all the land of Egypt
Quote: כִּי־ט֛וּב כָּל־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרַ֖יִם (1)This phrase refers generally to the wealth of Egypt that will be available to Jacob’s family, including fertile land and anything else that they need. Alternate translation: [because the best of everything in the land of Egypt] or [because the most valuable things in all the land of Egypt]
Genesis 45:21
Then the sons of Israel did so
Quote: וַיַּֽעֲשׂוּ־כֵן֙ בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)Jacob is referred to by his other name Israel here (also in verse 28). If that is not clear in your translation, you could put that information in a footnote. If possible in your translation, it is best to keep the name that the author chose to use in each case so that you do not change what is being emphasized. Alternate translation: [… agreed to do what Pharaoh said]
And Joseph gave to them carts
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֨ן לָהֶ֥ם יוֹסֵ֛ף עֲגָל֖וֹת (1)Alternate translation: [Then Joseph gave them carts to use]
according to the mouth of Pharaoh
Quote: עַל־פִּ֣י פַרְעֹ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This phrase refers to what Pharaoh said. Alternate translation: [as King Pharaoh had directed him]
and he gave provisions to them
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֥ן לָהֶ֛ם צֵדָ֖ה (1)Alternate translation: [and he provided them with food to eat] or [and he gave them food]
for the road
Quote: לַדָּֽרֶךְ (1)Alternate translation: [to eat on their trip home]
Genesis 45:22
To all of them, to each {one}, he gave changes of clothes
Quote: לְכֻלָּ֥ם נָתַ֛ן לָאִ֖ישׁ חֲלִפ֣וֹת שְׂמָלֹ֑ת (1)Alternate translation: [To each of them he gave a new set of clothes] or [He also gave a new change of clothes to each one of his brothers]
but to Benjamin he gave 300 {shekels} of silver and five changes of clothes
Quote: וּלְבִנְיָמִ֤ן נָתַן֙ שְׁלֹ֣שׁ מֵא֣וֹת כֶּ֔סֶף וְחָמֵ֖שׁ חֲלִפֹ֥ת שְׂמָלֹֽת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is better to mention the gift of clothes to Benjamin before the gift of silver, to more clearly contrast how many clothes he received with how many his brothers received. Do what is best in your language. Also, see how you translated shekels of silver in Gen 20:16 (and see the note there). Three hundred shekels of silver was equal to about 3.5 kilos (7.5 pounds). Alternate translation: [but to Benjamin he gave 300 pieces of silver money and five new changes of clothes] or [but to Benjamin he gave five new changes of clothes plus 300 pieces of silver money]
Genesis 45:23
And to his father he sent this
Quote: וּלְאָבִ֞יו שָׁלַ֤ח כְּזֹאת֙ (1)Alternate translation: [Besides that, he sent with them the following gifts for his father:] or [He also gave them the following things to give to his father:]
with the best of Egypt
Quote: מִטּ֣וּב מִצְרָ֑יִם (1)Alternate translation: [some of the best products from Egypt] or [some of the most valuable things produced in the country of Egypt]
grain and bread and provisions
Quote: בָּ֣ר וָלֶ֧חֶם וּמָז֛וֹן (1)Alternate translation: [bags of grain, bread, and other food] or [food provisions, including grain and bread]
for his father
Quote: לְאָבִ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Alternate translation: [for his father and family]
for the road
Quote: לַדָּֽרֶךְ (1)See how you translated “provisions … for the road” in verse 21 and Gen 42:25. Alternate translation: [to eat on his trip to Egypt] or [to eat as he traveled to Egypt]
Genesis 45:24
Then he sent his brothers
Quote: וַיְשַׁלַּ֥ח אֶת־אֶחָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Alternate translation: [Then Joseph saw his brothers off on their way home] or [After that, Joseph got his brothers started on their journey home]
and {as} they left
Quote: וַיֵּלֵ֑כוּ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
then he said to them, “Do not quarrel
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֲלֵהֶ֔ם אַֽל־תִּרְגְּז֖וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Consider whether it is better in your language to use a direct or indirect quote here. Alternate translation: [he told them not to argue with one another]
on the road
Quote: בַּדָּֽרֶךְ (1)Alternate translation: [on the journey] or [as you travel]
Genesis 45:25
Then they went up from Egypt
Quote: וַֽיַּעֲל֖וּ מִמִּצְרָ֑יִם (1)See how you translated up in verse 9.
and came {to} the land of Canaan, to Jacob their father
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֨אוּ֙ אֶ֣רֶץ כְּנַ֔עַן אֶֽל־יַעֲקֹ֖ב אֲבִיהֶֽם (1)Alternate translation: [and went back home to their father Jacob in the land of Canaan]
Genesis 45:26
And they reported to him, saying
Quote: וַיַּגִּ֨דוּ ל֜וֹ לֵאמֹ֗ר (1)Alternate translation: [They immediately announced to him] or [When they arrived, they exclaimed to him]
Joseph {is} still alive! And in fact, he {is} the ruler over all the land of Egypt
Quote: ע֚וֹד יוֹסֵ֣ף חַ֔י וְכִֽי־ה֥וּא מֹשֵׁ֖ל בְּכָל־אֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרָ֑יִם (1)See how you translated ruler in verse 8. Alternate translation: [Joseph is still alive! In fact, he is the governor of the entire country of Egypt!]
But his heart went numb
Quote: וַיָּ֣פָג לִבּ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This idiom means that Jacob was so shocked that he did not know which way to go with his emotions or what to think, say, or do; it does not mean that he died. Some languages have a similar idiom. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [When Jacob heard that, he was completely shocked]
because he did not believe them
Quote: כִּ֥י לֹא־הֶאֱמִ֖ין לָהֶֽם (1)Alternate translation: [because he thought it could not be true]
Genesis 45:27
Then they told him
Quote: וַיְדַבְּר֣וּ אֵלָ֗יו (1)Alternate translation: [But then they reported to him]
and he saw the carts
Quote: וַיַּרְא֙ אֶת־הָ֣עֲגָל֔וֹת (1)See how you translated carts in verses 19 and 21. Alternate translation: [and when he saw the carts]
then the spirit of Jacob their father revived
Quote: וַתְּחִ֕י ר֖וּחַ יַעֲקֹ֥ב אֲבִיהֶֽם (1)Alternate translation: [their father Jacob felt much better]
Genesis 45:28
And Israel said
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר֙ יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)Consider again whether to include in this chapter a footnote which explains that Israel (verses 21 and 28) and “Jacob” (verses 25 and 27) refer to the same person, not two different people. Alternate translation: [Then Israel exclaimed to them]
Joseph my son {is} still alive
Quote: עוֹד־יוֹסֵ֥ף בְּנִ֖י חָ֑י (1)Alternate translation: [My son Joseph must still be alive!]
Genesis 46
Genesis 46:1
Then Israel set out and all that {belonged} to him
Quote: וַיִּסַּ֤ע יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ וְכָל־אֲשֶׁר־ל֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [So Israel started the journey to Egypt with all his family members and belongings] or [So Israel and his family started traveling toward Egypt with all his belongings]
and he sacrificed sacrifices
Quote: וַיִּזְבַּ֣ח זְבָחִ֔ים (1)See how you translated sacrificed in Gen 31:54. Alternate translation: [he offered offerings] or [burned some of his animals on an altar there as sacrifices]
to the God of his father Isaac
Quote: לֵאלֹהֵ֖י אָבִ֥יו יִצְחָֽק (1)Alternate translation: [to God, whom his father Isaac had served]
Genesis 46:2
And God spoke to Israel in visions of the night and said, “Jacob! Jacob
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר אֱלֹהִ֤ים ׀ לְיִשְׂרָאֵל֙ בְּמַרְאֹ֣ת הַלַּ֔יְלָה וַיֹּ֖אמֶר יַעֲקֹ֣ב ׀ יַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)God repeats Jacob’s name to communicate that he has something urgent or important to tell him. Make sure your translation of this phrase does not sound angry or critical. Also see how you translated “vision” in Gen 15:1.
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (2)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages, it is more natural to put this quotation margin (he said) after the quote. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Jacob replied to him]
Behold me
Quote: הִנֵּֽנִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Consider again how you translated the idiom Behold me throughout the book of Genesis. See Gen 22:1, 7, 11; 27:1, 18; 31:11; 37:13; 46:2. Alternate translation: [Here I am, Lord] or [Yes, Master?] or [I am listening, Lord]
Genesis 46:3
I {am} God, the God of your father
Quote: אָנֹכִ֥י הָאֵ֖ל אֱלֹהֵ֣י אָבִ֑יךָ (1)See how you translated the God of in verse 1. Alternate translation: [I am God, the God whom your father served]
Do not be afraid
Quote: אַל־תִּירָא֙ (1)Alternate translation: [You must not be afraid]
to go down to Egypt
Quote: מֵרְדָ֣ה מִצְרַ֔יְמָה (1)Alternate translation: [to move down to the country of Egypt] or [to go to the country of Egypt and settle there]
because I will make you
Quote: כִּֽי & אֲשִֽׂימְךָ֥ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated I will make you into a great nation (and similar phrases) in Gen 12:2; 17:20; 18:18; 21:13, 18. Alternate translation: [because I will make you and your descendants] or [because I will make your family] or [because I will give you many descendants, who will]
into a great nation there
Quote: לְג֥וֹי גָּד֖וֹל & שָֽׁם (1)Alternate translation: [multiply and become an important ethnic group there]
Genesis 46:4
I myself will go down with you to Egypt
Quote: אָנֹכִ֗י אֵרֵ֤ד עִמְּךָ֙ מִצְרַ֔יְמָה (1)Consider what is the best way to translate the emphatic pronoun I here and in the next clause. Also see how you translated down and up in Gen 45:9. Alternate translation: [I personally will go with you to Egypt]
and I myself will also surely bring you up
Quote: וְאָנֹכִ֖י אַֽעַלְךָ֣ גַם־עָלֹ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The pronoun you refers here to Jacob’s descendants.
And Joseph will put his hand over your eyes
Quote: וְיוֹסֵ֕ף יָשִׁ֥ית יָד֖וֹ עַל־עֵינֶֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
This clause refers to the custom of closing a person’s eyes after he died and means that Joseph would be with Jacob when he died. Alternate translation: [And when you die, Joseph will be right there to close your eyes]
Genesis 46:5
Then Jacob got up from Beersheba
Quote: וַיָּ֥קָם יַעֲקֹ֖ב מִבְּאֵ֣ר שָׁ֑בַע (1)Be consistent with how you spell Beersheba throughout the book of Genesis. See Gen 21:14, 31-33; 22:19; 26:23, 33; 28:10; 46:1, 5. Alternate translation: [So Jacob left the city of Beersheba] or [After that, Jacob whose other name was Israel left the city of Beersheba]
and the sons of Israel carried Jacob their father
Quote: וַיִּשְׂא֨וּ בְנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֜ל אֶת־יַעֲקֹ֣ב אֲבִיהֶ֗ם (1)“and his sons, the sons of Israel, took/transported him their father” or “and his sons, that is the sons of Israel, took/transported him” or “and his sons took/transported him.” Israel is the name that God gave to Jacob (Gen 32:28, 35:10). In chapters 45 and 46, the text repeatedly switches back and forth between both of Jacob’s names. Make sure it is clear in your translation that these two names refer to the same person. You could include a footnote that helps readers understand what is happening. Alternate translation: [and his sons, the sons of Israel, took him their father] or [and his sons, that is the sons of Israel, took him] or [and his sons transported him]
and their little ones and their wives
Quote: וְאֶת־טַפָּם֙ וְאֶת־נְשֵׁיהֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
See how you translated “little ones and … wives” in Gen 45:19. Alternate translation: [as well as their children and wives]
in the carts
Quote: בָּעֲגָל֕וֹת (1)See how you translated carts in Gen 45:19, 21, 27.
that Pharaoh
Quote: אֲשֶׁר & פַּרְעֹ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
For a note about how Pharaoh is used like a name in the Bible, see Gen 12:15. Alternate translation: [that Pharaoh the king of Egypt] or [that the king of Egypt]
had sent
Quote: שָׁלַ֥ח (1)Alternate translation: [had sent to Canaan]
to carry him
Quote: לָשֵׂ֥את אֹתֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The pronoun him refers to Jacob, the head of his family, and includes Jacob’s wives and children. It may be necessary to use the plural pronoun “them” to make that clear. Alternate translation: [to transport him to Egypt] or [for them to ride on to Egypt]
Genesis 46:6
And they took their livestock
Quote: וַיִּקְח֣וּ אֶת־מִקְנֵיהֶ֗ם (1)Alternate translation: [They also took with them their animals]
and their possessions
Quote: וְאֶת־רְכוּשָׁם֙ (1)Consider again how you translated possessions in the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:5 (and note); 13:6; 14:11-12, 16, 21; 15:14; 31:18; 36:7; 46:6. It may be necessary to translate this term in slightly different ways, depending on the context.
that they had acquired
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֤ר רָֽכְשׁוּ֙ (1)Consider again how you translated acquired in the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:5; 31:18; 36:6; 46:6. Alternate translation: [that they had accumulated]
in the land of Canaan
Quote: בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנַ֔עַן (1)Alternate translation: [in Canaan]
Genesis 46:7
his sons and his sons’ sons with him, his daughters and his sons’ daughters
Quote: בָּנָ֞יו וּבְנֵ֤י בָנָיו֙ אִתּ֔וֹ בְּנֹתָ֛יו וּבְנ֥וֹת בָּנָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
Consider what is the best way in your language to list these descendants. Alternate translation: [including his sons and grandsons, and his daughters and granddaughters] or [including his sons, daughters, grandsons, and granddaughters]
So all his offspring he brought with him to Egypt
Quote: וְכָל־זַרְע֑וֹ הֵבִ֥יא אִתּ֖וֹ מִצְרָֽיְמָה (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, “He/Jacob brought his entire extended family with him to Egypt, including his sons …” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Yes, Jacob brought his entire family with him to Egypt] or [Jacob had all his descendants with him when he arrived in Egypt]
Genesis 46:8
the firstborn of Jacob {was} Reuben
Quote: בְּכֹ֥ר יַעֲקֹ֖ב רְאוּבֵֽן (1)Some translations put verses 8-14, 16-17, and 19-24 in list format, beginning a new paragraph with each of Jacob’s sons.
Genesis 46:9
And the sons of Reuben {were
Quote: וּבְנֵ֖י רְאוּבֵ֑ן (1)Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the sentence from the previous verse. Also, throughout this section (verses 9-27), some translations use a colon before each list of names instead of were or “who were.” Do what is best in your language.
Hanoch and Pallu and Hezron and Carmi
Quote: חֲנ֥וֹךְ וּפַלּ֖וּא וְחֶצְר֥וֹן וְכַרְמִֽי (1)For some languages it is more natural to include and between every name in a list like this. For other languages it is more natural to use commas between names and leave and implied, except before the last name in the list. See how you translated similar lists of names in Genesis 10.
Genesis 46:10
and Shaul, the son of a Canaanite woman
Quote: וְשָׁא֖וּל בֶּן־הַֽכְּנַעֲנִֽית (1)In this list, only Shaul had a Canaanite mother. See how you translated Canaanite in Gen 38:2. Alternate translation: [and Shaul, whose mother was a Canaanite] or [and Shaul. (Shaul had a Canaanite mother.)]
Genesis 46:12
Er and Onan and Shelah and Perez and Zerah
Quote: עֵ֧ר וְאוֹנָ֛ן וְשֵׁלָ֖ה וָפֶ֣רֶץ וָזָ֑רַח (1)Be consistent here with how you spelled these names in Gen 38:3-11, 26, 29-30.
but Er and Onan had died in the land of Canaan
Quote: וַיָּ֨מָת עֵ֤ר וְאוֹנָן֙ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנַ֔עַן (1)Alternate translation: [actually, Er and Onan had already died in the land of Canaan]
And the sons of Perez were Hezron and Hamul
Quote: וַיִּהְי֥וּ בְנֵי־פֶ֖רֶץ חֶצְר֥וֹן וְחָמֽוּל (1)Alternate translation: [Perez had sons named Hezron and Hamul]
Genesis 46:13
Tola and Puvah and Job and Shimron
Quote: תּוֹלָ֥ע וּפֻוָּ֖ה וְי֥וֹב וְשִׁמְרֽוֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Numbers 26:24 and 1 Chronicles 7:1 have the same list of Issachar’s sons as here, but instead of Puvah and “Job,” they have “Puah” and “Jashub.” Some translations keep the spelling for these names the same in all three locations to avoid confusion. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Tola, Puah, Jashub, and Shimron]
Genesis 46:15
Those {were} the sons of
Quote: אֵ֣לֶּה ׀ בְּנֵ֣י (1)Alternate translation: [All those were the descendants]
Leah, whom she bore for Jacob
Quote: לֵאָ֗ה אֲשֶׁ֨ר יָֽלְדָ֤ה לְיַעֲקֹב֙ (1)Alternate translation: [of Leah and Jacob who were born]
in Paddan Aram
Quote: בְּפַדַּ֣ן אֲרָ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [in the land of Paddan Aram]
and Dinah his daughter
Quote: וְאֵ֖ת דִּינָ֣ה בִתּ֑וֹ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, be consistent with how you spell the name Dinah in the book of Genesis. See Gen 30:21; 34:1-5, 11, 13, 25-26; 46:15. Alternate translation: [as well as Dinah their daughter] or [in addition to their daughter Dinah]
All the souls of his sons and his daughters {were} thirty-three
Quote: כָּל־נֶ֧פֶשׁ בָּנָ֛יו וּבְנוֹתָ֖יו שְׁלֹשִׁ֥ים וְשָׁלֹֽשׁ (1)Alternate translation: [All together those sons, daughters and grandchildren totaled thirty-three persons]
Genesis 46:16
And the sons of Gad {were
Quote: וּבְנֵ֣י גָ֔ד (1)This verse begins a new section in the list of Jacob’s descendants. Decide what is the best way to begin this new section in your language.
Genesis 46:17
and Serah their sister
Quote: וְשֶׂ֣רַח אֲחֹתָ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [and their sister, who was Serah] or [and their sister, whose name was Serah] or [Their sister was Serah]
And the sons of Beriah {were} Heber and Malkiel
Quote: וּבְנֵ֣י בְרִיעָ֔ה חֶ֖בֶר וּמַלְכִּיאֵֽל (1)Alternate translation: [Beriah had sons named Heber and Malkiel]
Genesis 46:18
Those {were} the sons of Zilpah
Quote: אֵ֚לֶּה בְּנֵ֣י זִלְפָּ֔ה (1)Be consistent with how you spell the name Zilpah in the book of Genesis. See Gen 29:24; 30:9-10,12; 35:26; 37:2; 46:18. Alternate translation: [Those were the descendants of Jacob and Zilpah]
And she bore those sixteen souls for Jacob
Quote: וַתֵּ֤לֶד אֶת־אֵ֨לֶּה֙ לְיַעֲקֹ֔ב שֵׁ֥שׁ עֶשְׂרֵ֖ה נָֽפֶשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Consider whether it is better in your language to change the order of clauses in this verse and say, “Those were sixteen descendants that Jacob had with his concubine Zilpah, whom Laban had given to his daughter Leah as a maidservant/servant.” Alternate translation: [Zilpah and Jacob had those sixteen descendants] or [The total number of those descendants that Zilpah and Jacob had together was sixteen]
Genesis 46:19
The sons of Rachel, the wife of Jacob, {were} Joseph and Benjamin
Quote: בְּנֵ֤י רָחֵל֙ אֵ֣שֶׁת יַֽעֲקֹ֔ב יוֹסֵ֖ף וּבִנְיָמִֽן (1)This verse begins a new section in the list of Jacob’s descendants. Decide what is the best way to begin this new section in your language.
Genesis 46:20
whom Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera the priest of On, bore for him
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֤ר יָֽלְדָה־לּוֹ֙ אָֽסְנַ֔ת בַּת־פּ֥וֹטִי פֶ֖רַע כֹּהֵ֣ן אֹ֑ן (1)See how you translated “Asenath … daughter of Potiphera the priest of On” in Gen 41:45.
Genesis 46:21
Ehi and Rosh, Muppim and Huppim and Ard
Quote: אֵחִ֣י וָרֹ֑אשׁ מֻפִּ֥ים וְחֻפִּ֖ים וָאָֽרְדְּ (1)Remember to use (or not use) and between the names in this list in a way that is natural in your language.
Genesis 46:22
Those {were} the sons of
Quote: אֵ֚לֶּה בְּנֵ֣י (1)Alternate translation: [All those were the descendants]
Rachel, whom she bore for Jacob
Quote: רָחֵ֔ל אֲשֶׁ֥ר יֻלַּ֖ד לְיַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)Your punctuation here will depend on how you translate the rest of this verse. Alternate translation: [that Jacob and his wife Rachel had together] or [who came from Rachel and Jacob]
all the souls {were} fourteen
Quote: כָּל־נֶ֖פֶשׁ אַרְבָּעָ֥ה עָשָֽׂר (1)Alternate translation: [The total number of those descendants was fourteen]
Genesis 46:23
And the sons of Dan {were} Hushim
Quote: וּבְנֵי־דָ֖ן חֻשִֽׁים (1)This verse begins a new section in the list of Jacob’s descendants. See how you started verse 16, which is similar.
Genesis 46:24
Jahziel and Guni and Jezer and Shillem
Quote: יַחְצְאֵ֥ל וְגוּנִ֖י וְיֵ֥צֶר וְשִׁלֵּֽם (1)Consider again how you translated these lists of names in this chapter (verses 9-24).
Genesis 46:25
Those {were} the sons of Bilhah
Quote: אֵ֚לֶּה בְּנֵ֣י בִלְהָ֔ה (1)Be consistent in how you spell Bilhah in the book of Genesis. See Gen 29:29; 30:3-5, 7; 35:22, 25; 37:2; 46:25. Also see how you translated verse 18, which is similar in structure to verse 25. Alternate translation: [Those were the descendants of Jacob and Bilhah]
whom Laban had given to Rachel his daughter
Quote: אֲשֶׁר־נָתַ֥ן לָבָ֖ן לְרָחֵ֣ל בִּתּ֑וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [who was the servant woman whom Laban had given to his daughter Rachel]
And she bore those for Jacob; all the souls {were} seven
Quote: וַתֵּ֧לֶד אֶת־אֵ֛לֶּה לְיַעֲקֹ֖ב כָּל־נֶ֥פֶשׁ שִׁבְעָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is better to change the order of clauses in this verse and say, “All those were seven descendants that Jacob had with his concubine Bilhah, whom Laban had given to his daughter Rachel as a maidservant/servant.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [The total number of those descendants that Bilhah and Jacob had together was seven] or [Those descendants that Bilhah had with Jacob totaled seven persons]
Genesis 46:26
All the souls who went with Jacob to Egypt
Quote: כָּל־הַ֠נֶּפֶשׁ הַבָּאָ֨ה לְיַעֲקֹ֤ב מִצְרַ֨יְמָה֙ (1)Alternate translation: [The total number of people who traveled with Jacob to Egypt]
who came out of his thigh
Quote: יֹצְאֵ֣י יְרֵכ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
Make sure that your translation of this idiom can be read in public without offending or embarrassing listeners. See how you translated a similar idiom in Gen 35:11. Alternate translation: [who came from him] or [who were his blood relatives] or [who were his biological descendants]
apart from the wives of Jacob’s sons
Quote: מִלְּבַ֖ד נְשֵׁ֣י בְנֵי־יַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)Alternate translation: [not including his wives or the wives of his sons]
all the souls {were} sixty-six
Quote: כָּל־נֶ֖פֶשׁ שִׁשִּׁ֥ים וָשֵֽׁשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is clearer and more natural to change the order of the clauses in this sentence and say, “Altogether Jacob had sixty-six blood relatives who went with him to Egypt. That number does not include his wives or his sons’ wives.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [was sixty-six people in all]
Genesis 46:27
And the sons of Joseph who were born for him in Egypt {were} two souls
Quote: וּבְנֵ֥י יוֹסֵ֛ף אֲשֶׁר־יֻלַּד־ל֥וֹ בְמִצְרַ֖יִם נֶ֣פֶשׁ שְׁנָ֑יִם (1)Alternate translation: [Joseph and his two sons were already in Egypt, so, including Jacob]
Genesis 46:28
And he sent Judah
Quote: וְאֶת־יְהוּדָ֞ה שָׁלַ֤ח (1)Alternate translation: [Then he told Judah to go] or [When they reached Egypt, he had Judah go]
before him to Joseph
Quote: לְפָנָיו֙ אֶל־יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Alternate translation: [ahead of them to Joseph]
to show {the way} before him
Quote: לְהוֹרֹ֥ת לְפָנָ֖יו (1)Alternate translation: [to find out which way to go] or [to ask him how to get]
to Goshen
Quote: גֹּ֑שְׁנָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Goshen was a region or territory that was part of the country of Egypt. For some languages it is better to make that explicit here, rather than wait until the end of the verse. Do what is best in your language. Also be consistent here with how you spelled Goshen in Gen 45:10. Alternate translation: [to the region of Goshen] or [to Goshen County]
And they came
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֖אוּ (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: [Then Jacob and his family traveled to]
to the land of Goshen
Quote: אַ֥רְצָה גֹּֽשֶׁן (1)If you use the land of Goshen earlier in this verse, it may be better to just say Goshen here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [the region of Goshen] or [Goshen County]
Genesis 46:29
Then Joseph harnessed his chariot
Quote: וַיֶּאְסֹ֤ר יוֹסֵף֙ מֶרְכַּבְתּ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Joseph may have harnessed his horses to his chariot himself, or he may have had his servants do that for him (which was usual for a powerful person like him). Consider how you translated similar situations in Gen 41:48. Also see how you translated chariot in Gen 41:43. Alternate translation: [Then Joseph got his cart ready] or [Then Joseph had his servants get his cart ready]
and went up to meet Israel his father in Goshen
Quote: וַיַּ֛עַל לִקְרַֽאת־יִשְׂרָאֵ֥ל אָבִ֖יו גֹּ֑שְׁנָה (1)See how you translated went up in Gen 13:1 and “go up” in Gen 45:9.
And he appeared to him
Quote: וַיֵּרָ֣א אֵלָ֗יו (1)Alternate translation: [When he got there, Joseph went up to his father]
and he fell on his neck
Quote: וַיִּפֹּל֙ עַל־צַוָּארָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated “fell on … neck” in Gen 45:14. Alternate translation: [and put his arms around his neck] or [and hugged him strongly]
Genesis 46:30
Then Israel said to Joseph
Quote: וַיֹּ֧אמֶר יִשְׂרָאֵ֛ל אֶל־יוֹסֵ֖ף (1)Alternate translation: [Then Israel exclaimed to him]
Now I can die
Quote: אָמ֣וּתָה הַפָּ֑עַם (1)Jacob did not die until 17 years later (Genesis 47:28). Make sure your translation of this clause does not mean or imply that Jacob wanted to die soon or that he thought he would die soon. Alternate translation: [Now I will die happy]
since I have seen your face
Quote: אַחֲרֵי֙ רְאוֹתִ֣י אֶת־פָּנֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
In this context, your face refers to Joseph, not just his face. Decide what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: [since I have seen you face to face] or [since I have seen you in person]
Genesis 46:31
Then Joseph said to his brothers
Quote: וַיֹּ֨אמֶר יוֹסֵ֤ף אֶל־אֶחָיו֙ (1)Alternate translation: [Then Joseph told his brothers]
I will go up and report to Pharaoh, and I will say to him
Quote: אֶעֱלֶ֖ה וְאַגִּ֣ידָה לְפַרְעֹ֑ה וְאֹֽמְרָ֣ה אֵלָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-honorifics
Make sure that the way Joseph refers to Pharaoh here sounds respectful in your translation. See what you did in Gen 41:35. Alternate translation: [I will go to King Pharaoh and tell him]
My brothers and the household of my father
Quote: אַחַ֧י וּבֵית־אָבִ֛י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote (in verses 31-32) with a direct or indirect quote.
who {were living} in the land of Canaan have come to me
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר בְּאֶֽרֶץ־כְּנַ֖עַן בָּ֥אוּ אֵלָֽי (1)Alternate translation: [have come here from the land of Canaan to live near me]
Genesis 46:32
And the men {are} herders of sheep
Quote: וְהָאֲנָשִׁים֙ רֹ֣עֵי צֹ֔אן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Be consistent here with whether you are translating this embedded quote (that began in verse 31) as an direct or indirect quote. Alternate translation: [The men of my family tend sheep and goats] or [I will also tell him that you men in my family raise sheep and goats]
for they are livestock men
Quote: כִּֽי־אַנְשֵׁ֥י מִקְנֶ֖ה הָי֑וּ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [for they are livestock raisers]
and everything
Quote: וְכָל (1)Alternate translation: [as well as everything else]
that {belongs} to them
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר לָהֶ֖ם (1)Alternate translation: [that they have] or [that is theirs]
Genesis 46:33
Then it will be
Quote: וְהָיָ֕ה (1)This phrase introduces and emphasizes what Joseph says next. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language.
when Pharaoh
Quote: כִּֽי & פַּרְעֹ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [when King Pharaoh]
calls for you and says, ‘What {is} your work
Quote: יִקְרָ֥א לָכֶ֖ם & וְאָמַ֖ר מַה־מַּעֲשֵׂיכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this embedded quotation with a direct or indirect quote. Alternate translation: [summons you and asks you what your work is]
Genesis 46:34
then you should say
Quote: וַאֲמַרְתֶּ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [you must tell him]
Your servants have been livestock men from our youth and until now
Quote: אַנְשֵׁ֨י מִקְנֶ֜ה הָי֤וּ עֲבָדֶ֨יךָ֙ מִנְּעוּרֵ֣ינוּ וְעַד־עַ֔תָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
The phrase “your servants” shows respect to Pharaoh and acknowledges his high position; it does not mean that Pharaoh actually owns Joseph’s brothers as servants. Translate this in a polite way that shows respect toward Pharaoh. Also, see how you translated livestock men in verse 32. Alternate translation: [Your Majesty we have raised livestock since the time we were young]
both we {and} also our fathers
Quote: גַּם־אֲנַ֖חְנוּ גַּם־אֲבֹתֵ֑ינוּ (1)See how you translated fathers in Gen 15:15. Alternate translation: [which is the same occupation that our forefathers had]
so that
Quote: בַּעֲב֗וּר (1)Alternate translation: [If you say that, then]
you can settle
Quote: תֵּשְׁבוּ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The idea here is that Jacob’s family would be permitted to live in rural areas to raise their livestock away from most Egyptians, who despised sheep herders. Alternate translation: [you will be allowed to live privately] or [he will permit you to live privately]
in the land of Goshen
Quote: בְּאֶ֣רֶץ גֹּ֔שֶׁן (1)Alternate translation: [in the region of Goshen] or [in Goshen County]
because
Quote: כִּֽי (1)Alternate translation: [especially because]
every herder of sheep {is} an abomination {to} Egyptians
Quote: תוֹעֲבַ֥ת מִצְרַ֖יִם כָּל־רֹ֥עֵה צֹֽאן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is clearer and more natural to change the order of phrases in this clause. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated abomination in Gen 43:32. Alternate translation: [sheep herders are detestable to Egyptians] or [the people of Egypt have disdain for sheep herders] or [Egyptians detest everyone who raises sheep]
Genesis 47
Genesis 47:1
Then Joseph went and reported to Pharaoh and said
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֣א יוֹסֵף֮ וַיַּגֵּ֣ד לְפַרְעֹה֒ וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)See how you translated “report to Pharaoh” in Gen 46:31. Alternate translation: [Then Joseph went to King Pharaoh and told him]
My father and my brothers
Quote: אָבִ֨י וְאַחַ֜י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
It is implied that the brothers brought their families with them. Consider whether or not to make that explicit in your translation. Alternate translation: [My father, my brothers and their families]
and their flock{s} and their herd{s
Quote: וְצֹאנָ֤ם וּבְקָרָם֙ (1)Alternate translation: [and their flocks of sheep and goats and their herds of cattle] or [along with their sheep, goats, cattle]
have come from the land of Canaan
Quote: בָּ֖אוּ מֵאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנָ֑עַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to put this clause and the rest of this verse earlier in this sentence. For example: “My father and my brothers and their families have come to Egypt from the region of Canaan and are now in Goshen Province. They brought with them their sheep …” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [have come here from the land of Canaan]
and behold, they {are
Quote: וְהִנָּ֖ם (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [They are staying now] or [and they have already arrived]
in the land of Goshen
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ גֹּֽשֶׁן (1)Alternate translation: [in the region of Goshen] or [in Goshen County]
Genesis 47:2
Then he took five men from among his brothers, and he presented them before Pharaoh
Quote: וּמִקְצֵ֣ה אֶחָ֔יו לָקַ֖ח חֲמִשָּׁ֣ה אֲנָשִׁ֑ים וַיַּצִּגֵ֖ם לִפְנֵ֥י פַרְעֹֽה (1)Joseph probably brought his father and brothers with him from Goshen (46:31) to Pharaoh’s palace. It is not clear whether or not they were in the room yet when Joseph spoke to Pharaoh about them (47:1). Alternate translation: [Then he took five of his brothers to Pharaoh and presented them to him] or [Joseph had brought five of his brothers with him from Goshen, so he brought them before Pharaoh and presented them to him]
Genesis 47:3
Then Pharaoh said to his brothers
Quote: וַיֹּ֧אמֶר פַּרְעֹ֛ה אֶל־אֶחָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Make sure that your translation of his brothers refers to Joseph’s brothers, not Pharaoh’s.
What {is} your work
Quote: מַה־מַּעֲשֵׂיכֶ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [What kind of work do you do?] or [What do you do for a living?]
And they said to Pharaoh
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֣וּ אֶל־פַּרְעֹ֗ה (1)Alternate translation: [They answered Pharaoh] or [One of them said]
Your servants
Quote: עֲבָדֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
See how you translated “your servants” in Gen 46:34. Alternate translation: [We, your humble servants] or [Your Majesty we] or [Sir, we]
are} herders of sheep
Quote: רֹעֵ֥ה צֹאן֙ (1)Alternate translation: [are herdsmen]
both we and our fathers
Quote: גַּם־אֲנַ֖חְנוּ גַּם־אֲבוֹתֵֽינוּ (1)Alternate translation: [just as our ancestors were] or [which is the same kind of work that our forefathers did]
Genesis 47:4
Then they said to Pharaoh
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֣וּ אֶל־פַּרְעֹ֗ה (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 people (Joseph’s brothers) are still talking to the same person (Pharaoh). However, the words emphasize what Joseph’s five brothers say next and may indicate that there was a pause between what they said in verse 3 and verse 4. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Then they added]
We have come to sojourn
Quote: לָג֣וּר & בָּאנוּ֒ (1)Alternate translation: [We have come here to stay for a while] or [We came here to stay temporarily]
in the land
Quote: בָּאָרֶץ֮ (1)Alternate translation: [in this country] or [in your land]
because there is not pasture for the flock{s} that {belong} to your servants
Quote: כִּי־אֵ֣ין מִרְעֶ֗ה לַצֹּאן֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר לַעֲבָדֶ֔יךָ (1)Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language. Alternate translation: [because there was not enough grass for our flocks of sheep and goats] or [Our flocks, sir, did not have enough grass to eat]
because the famine {is} heavy in the land of Canaan
Quote: כִּֽי־כָבֵ֥ד הָרָעָ֖ב בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנָ֑עַן (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. For example: “The famine is so severe/terrible in the region of Canaan where we are/come from that there is not enough grass in the fields for our flocks.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [in the region of Canaan where we are from, because the famine is so severe there]
So now, please let your servants settle
Quote: וְעַתָּ֛ה יֵֽשְׁבוּ־נָ֥א עֲבָדֶ֖יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
See how you translated your servants in verse 3 to show respect. Alternate translation: [So now please let us your humble servants live] or [So then, sir, please let us settle]
in the land of Goshen
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ גֹּֽשֶׁן (1)Alternate translation: [in the region of Goshen]
Genesis 47:5
Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, saying
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר פַּרְעֹ֔ה אֶל־יוֹסֵ֖ף לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Alternate translation: [Then Pharaoh turned to Joseph and said] or [When Pharaoh heard that, he said to Joseph]
Your father and your brothers have come to you
Quote: אָבִ֥יךָ וְאַחֶ֖יךָ בָּ֥אוּ אֵלֶֽיךָ (1)Make sure your translation of this clause does not sound like Pharaoh was telling Joseph something he did not already know. Rather, he is stating shared knowledge as the basis for what he says next.
Genesis 47:6
The land of Egypt {is} before you
Quote: אֶ֤רֶץ מִצְרַ֨יִם֙ לְפָנֶ֣יךָ (1)Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the sentence from verse 5. Alternate translation: [the entire land of Egypt is available to you to choose from]
Settle your father and your brothers
Quote: הוֹשֵׁ֥ב אֶת־אָבִ֖יךָ וְאֶת־אַחֶ֑יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Alternate translation: [So have your father and your brothers settle] or [In fact, they may settle]
in the best land; let them settle in the land of Goshen
Quote: בְּמֵיטַ֣ב הָאָ֔רֶץ & יֵשְׁבוּ֙ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ גֹּ֔שֶׁן (1)Alternate translation: [in the finest land in the country, in Goshen Province] or [in the region of Goshen, which is the finest land in the country]
And if you know that there are men of ability among them
Quote: וְאִם־יָדַ֗עְתָּ וְיֶשׁ־בָּם֙ אַנְשֵׁי־חַ֔יִל (1)Alternate translation: [And if you know that some of them are very skilled at raising livestock]
then appoint them overseers of livestock over {those} that {belong} to me
Quote: וְשַׂמְתָּ֛ם שָׂרֵ֥י מִקְנֶ֖ה עַל־אֲשֶׁר־לִֽי (1)Alternate translation: [then make them herdsmen over my livestock also]
Genesis 47:7
Then Joseph brought Jacob his father
Quote: וַיָּבֵ֤א יוֹסֵף֙ אֶת־יַֽעֲקֹ֣ב אָבִ֔יו (1)Alternate translation: [Then Joseph brought his father Jacob]
and presented him before Pharaoh
Quote: וַיַּֽעֲמִדֵ֖הוּ לִפְנֵ֣י פַרְעֹ֑ה (1)See how you translated presented in verse 2. Alternate translation: [and presented him to King Pharaoh] or [to King Pharaoh and introduced them to each other]
and Jacob blessed Pharaoh
Quote: וַיְבָ֥רֶךְ יַעֲקֹ֖ב אֶת־פַּרְעֹֽה (1)In Hebrew, there is a common greeting which means “peace be to you,” so it is possible that Jacob used this blessing of peace here to greet Pharaoh. Alternate translation: [and Jacob greeted and blessed Pharaoh] or [and Jacob asked God to prosper Pharaoh] or [and Jacob greeted Pharaoh with a blessing]
Genesis 47:8
How many {are} the days of the years of your life
Quote: כַּמָּ֕ה יְמֵ֖י שְׁנֵ֥י חַיֶּֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-politeness
Make sure your translation of Pharaoh’s question about Jacob’s age sounds polite. Also, for some languages, a title of respect (such as “Sir”) is necessary whenever someone addresses a distinguished old man such as Jacob.
Genesis 47:9
And Jacob said to Pharaoh
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יַעֲקֹב֙ אֶל־פַּרְעֹ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Jacob replied]
The days of the years of my sojournings {are} 130 years
Quote: יְמֵי֙ שְׁנֵ֣י מְגוּרַ֔י שְׁלֹשִׁ֥ים וּמְאַ֖ת שָׁנָ֑ה (1)Consider again how you translated “sojournings,” “sojourn,” and “sojourner” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:10; 15:13; 17:8; 19:9; 20:1; 21:23, 34; 23:4; 26:3; 28:4; 32:4; 35:27; 37:1; 47:4, 9. It may be necessary to translate these terms in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [The length of my life so far has been 130 years]
The days of the years of my life have been few and difficult
Quote: מְעַ֣ט וְרָעִ֗ים הָיוּ֙ יְמֵי֙ שְׁנֵ֣י חַיַּ֔י (1)Alternate translation: [I have not lived very long, and I have had many difficulties] or [My life has been short, with many difficulties]
and they have not reached the days of the years of my fathers’ lives
Quote: וְלֹ֣א הִשִּׂ֗יגוּ אֶת־יְמֵי֙ שְׁנֵי֙ חַיֵּ֣י אֲבֹתַ֔י (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [In fact, I have lived less years than my forefathers did] or [In fact, I have not lived nearly as long as my forefathers did]
in the days of their sojournings
Quote: בִּימֵ֖י מְגוּרֵיהֶֽם (1)Alternate translation: [during the time that they lived on earth] or [during their years on earth]
Genesis 47:10
Then Jacob blessed Pharaoh
Quote: וַיְבָ֥רֶךְ יַעֲקֹ֖ב אֶת־פַּרְעֹ֑ה (1)It was customary in Hebrew to use the blessing “peace be to you” both when greeting and when leaving someone. See how you translated blessed in verse 7. Alternate translation: [Then Jacob said goodbye to Pharaoh with a blessing]
and left from the presence of Pharaoh
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֖א מִלִּפְנֵ֥י פַרְעֹֽה (1)Alternate translation: [and left his presence]
Genesis 47:11
Then Joseph settled his father and his brothers, and he gave them property in the land of Egypt, in the best land, in the land of Rameses
Quote: וַיּוֹשֵׁ֣ב יוֹסֵף֮ אֶת־אָבִ֣יו וְאֶת־אֶחָיו֒ וַיִּתֵּ֨ן לָהֶ֤ם אֲחֻזָּה֙ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֔יִם בְּמֵיטַ֥ב הָאָ֖רֶץ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ רַעְמְסֵ֑ס (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
It is implied that Rameses (verse 11) was another name for Goshen (verses 1, 4, 6). If necessary, you could make that information explicit in your translation or put it in a footnote. Later in Egypt’s history, some of the Pharaohs were named Rameses and a city was named after one of them (Exodus 1:11). Alternate translation: [So Joseph gave his father and his brothers the choicest land in the country of Egypt, and they and their families settled there. The property was in Rameses Count, that is, Goshen County] or [After that, Joseph helped his father and brothers settle in the country of Egypt. He gave them the choicest property in Egypt, which was in Goshen Province, also known as Rameses Province]
as Pharaoh had commanded
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֖ר צִוָּ֥ה פַרְעֹֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
It may be more natural to put this clause first in this verse and say, “After that, Joseph did what Pharaoh had commanded/told him to do: He helped his father and brothers settle in the country of Egypt. He gave them property in Rameses Province/County, that is, Goshen Province/County, which was the choicest land in Egypt.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [just as Pharaoh had told him to do] or [He did exactly as Pharaoh had commanded him to do]
Genesis 47:12
bread, according to the mouth{s} of the little ones
Quote: לֶ֖חֶם לְפִ֥י הַטָּֽף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The children are mentioned to emphasize that all the members of the families were well-provided for, including the youngest ones. Make sure it is clear in your translation that Joseph was providing food for everyone in each family, not just the children. Alternate translation: [food, based on how many children were in each family] or [as much food as each family needed to feed all the children in their family]
Genesis 47:13
Now there was no bread
Quote: וְלֶ֤חֶם אֵין֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This clause is probably an exaggeration to emphasize that there was so little food that the people were starving. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Also consider what is the best way in your language to begin this new section that returns to the famine and how it was progressing. Alternate translation: [Now meanwhile, there was no more food] or [Meanwhile, there was almost no food] or [After a while, there was very little food available]
in all the earth
Quote: בְּכָל־הָאָ֔רֶץ (1)This phrase is ambiguous in the Hebrew text. It could mean: (1) “in all the earth,” or “in the entire known world,” or “anywhere,” which might be an exaggeration (like the previous phrase); or (2) “in all the land,” or “in the/that entire area/region of the earth/world,” which includes Egypt and Canaan (mentioned later in the verse) and other nearby regions and countries. See how you translated all the earth in Gen 41:57.
because the famine {was} very heavy
Quote: כִּֽי־כָבֵ֥ד הָרָעָ֖ב מְאֹ֑ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to put this clause first in this sentence and say, for example: “Now after a while, the famine was/became so severe/terrible in the entire world that there was very little food available anywhere.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [because the famine was so severe]
and the land of Egypt and the land of Canaan were languishing
Quote: וַתֵּ֜לַהּ אֶ֤רֶץ מִצְרַ֨יִם֙ וְאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנַ֔עַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Make sure your translation of this phrase refers to the people who live in Egypt and Canaan, not just the lands. Alternate translation: [As a result, the people in the country of Egypt and the region of Canaan] or [In fact, the people living in the lands of Egypt and Canaan]
and … were languishing
Quote: וַתֵּ֜לַהּ (1)The verb languishing refers in general to the suffering that the famine was causing, including things such as weakness, fainting and other distress. Some languages have an idiom (like “were wasting away”) that fits well here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [were weak] or [were suffering terribly] or [were wasting away]
because of the famine
Quote: מִפְּנֵ֖י הָרָעָֽב (1)Alternate translation: [because of the severe lack of food] or [from hunger]
Genesis 47:14
And Joseph collected all the silver that was found in the land of Egypt and in the land of Canaan for the grain which they were buying
Quote: וַיְלַקֵּ֣ט יוֹסֵ֗ף אֶת־כָּל־הַכֶּ֨סֶף֙ הַנִּמְצָ֤א בְאֶֽרֶץ־מִצְרַ֨יִם֙ וּבְאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנַ֔עַן בַּשֶּׁ֖בֶר אֲשֶׁר־הֵ֣ם שֹׁבְרִ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [So the people spent their money buying grain from Joseph until he had collected all their money] or [So they bought grain from Joseph until there was no more silver left in the country of Egypt or the land of Canaan]
and Joseph brought the silver to the house of Pharaoh
Quote: וַיָּבֵ֥א יוֹסֵ֛ף אֶת־הַכֶּ֖סֶף בֵּ֥יתָה פַרְעֹֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Joseph probably had servants do this for him. See what you did for a similar case in Gen 41:48.
Genesis 47:15
So the silver was consumed from the land of Egypt and from the land of Canaan
Quote: וַיִּתֹּ֣ם הַכֶּ֗סֶף מֵאֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַיִם֮ וּמֵאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנַעַן֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
Consider whether it is better in your language to use a passive or active clause here. Alternate translation: [So when all the silver in the country of Egypt and the region of Canaan had been used up] or [After the people in Egypt and Canaan had spent all their money]
all Egypt
Quote: כָל־מִצְרַ֨יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
The word all is an exaggeration (hyperbole) which emphasizes that a large number of Egyptians went to Joseph. Consider whether or not it is best to use hyperbole here in your language. Alternate translation: [all the people in Egypt] or [the Egyptians all]
and … came to Joseph
Quote: וַיָּבֹאוּ֩ & אֶל־יוֹסֵ֤ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
Consider whether came or “went” is more natural here in your language.
saying
Quote: לֵאמֹר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [and pleaded with him]
Give us bread
Quote: הָֽבָה־לָּ֣נוּ לֶ֔חֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Make sure your translation of the people’s request sounds polite, not rude or disrespectful. Also see how you translated bread in verses 12-13. Alternate translation: [Sir, please give us food]
And why should we die before you
Quote: וְלָ֥מָּה נָמ֖וּת נֶגְדֶּ֑ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The people use a rhetorical question here to emphasize how desperate they feel. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: [so that we do not die right here in front of you!] or [and do not let us starve to death!]
For the silver is gone
Quote: כִּ֥י אָפֵ֖ס כָּֽסֶף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
It may be more natural to put this clause first in this quote and say, “Sir, we have no more money to buy grain/food! Please give us food so that we do not starve to death!” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [There is no more money to buy food] or [We have no more money to buy food]
Genesis 47:16
And Joseph said
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יוֹסֵף֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Joseph said to them] or [Joseph replied]
Bring your livestock
Quote: הָב֣וּ מִקְנֵיכֶ֔ם (1)The word livestock is general here and includes all the different kinds of animals that are specified in verse 17. Alternate translation: [Give me your animals]
and I will give {grain} to you {in exchange} for your livestock
Quote: וְאֶתְּנָ֥ה לָכֶ֖ם בְּמִקְנֵיכֶ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [and I will sell you grain when you give me your animals to pay for it] or [and in exchange for them I will give you grain]
since the silver is gone
Quote: אִם־אָפֵ֖ס כָּֽסֶף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it may be more natural to put this clause first in this quote and say, “Since your silver/money is gone, bring/give me your livestock to pay for the grain/food that I will give you.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [since all your money is gone] or [since you have spent all your money]
Genesis 47:17
So they brought their livestock to Joseph
Quote: וַיָּבִ֣יאוּ אֶת־מִקְנֵיהֶם֮ אֶל־יוֹסֵף֒ (1)Alternate translation: [So the people took their animals to Joseph]
and Joseph gave bread to them {in exchange} for the horses and for the herd{s} of sheep and for the herd{s} of cattle and for the donkeys
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֣ן לָהֶם֩ יוֹסֵ֨ף לֶ֜חֶם בַּסּוּסִ֗ים וּבְמִקְנֵ֥ה הַצֹּ֛אן וּבְמִקְנֵ֥ה הַבָּקָ֖ר וּבַחֲמֹרִ֑ים (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [and gave him their horses, sheep, goats, cattle, and donkeys to pay for the food that he gave them] or [They gave him their horses, …]
So he provided them with bread in that year
Quote: וַיְנַהֲלֵ֤ם בַּלֶּ֨חֶם֙ & בַּשָּׁנָ֖ה הַהִֽוא (1)Alternate translation: [In that way Joseph supplied the people with grain that year]
in exchange} for all their livestock
Quote: בְּכָל־מִקְנֵהֶ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [and they gave him all their animals to pay for it]
Genesis 47:18
And {when} that year had ended
Quote: וַתִּתֹּם֮ הַשָּׁנָ֣ה הַהִוא֒ (1)Alternate translation: [When that year was over]
then they came to him in the second year
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֨אוּ אֵלָ֜יו בַּשָּׁנָ֣ה הַשֵּׁנִ֗ית (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
Alternate translation: [the people came to Joseph again in the next year]
and said to him
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמְרוּ לוֹ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [and told him]
We cannot hide {it} from my lord that since
Quote: לֹֽא־נְכַחֵ֣ד מֵֽאֲדֹנִ֔י כִּ֚י אִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-honorifics
For some languages, it may be more natural to put the address “my/our lord” or “sir” first in this quote. Also notice that this address is used three times in this verse to show extra respect to Joseph. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language. Alternate translation: [Our lord we cannot hide from you the fact that]
the silver is consumed and the herd{s} of livestock
Quote: תַּ֣ם הַכֶּ֔סֶף וּמִקְנֵ֥ה הַבְּהֵמָ֖ה (1)Consider again how you translated silver in the book of Genesis. See Gen 13:2; 20:16; 23:15-16; 24:35, 53; 31:15; 37:28; 42:25, 27-28, 35; 43:12, 15, 18, 21-23; 44:1-2, 8; 45:22; 47:14-16, 18. It may be necessary to translate this word in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [our money is gone and our animals] or [not only is our silver all gone, but all our animals also]
belong} to my lord
Quote: אֶל־אֲדֹנִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
In this verse, the people use the third person (“my/our lord”) to address Joseph in a respectful manner. Consider what is the best way to do that in your language. Alternate translation: [belong to you, our lord] or [are yours, sir]
there is nothing left before my lord except our bodies and our lands
Quote: לֹ֤א נִשְׁאַר֙ לִפְנֵ֣י אֲדֹנִ֔י בִּלְתִּ֥י אִם־גְּוִיָּתֵ֖נוּ וְאַדְמָתֵֽנוּ (1)Consider what is the best way to translate the Hebrew word for “land” here (and In verses 19-26), which refers to cultivated land (such as farmland or fields), not to the planet earth or to a country. It is different from the word for “land” in the rest of this chapter (in verses 1, 4, 6, 11, 13-15, 27-28). Alternate translation: [We have nothing left to pay you, sir, for grain except ourselves and our land] or [The only way we can pay you for grain is to give you our land and work for you, sir]
Genesis 47:19
Why should we die before your eyes, both we and our land
Quote: לָ֧מָּה נָמ֣וּת לְעֵינֶ֗יךָ גַּם־אֲנַ֨חְנוּ֙ גַּ֣ם אַדְמָתֵ֔נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
For many languages, the verb die does not fit with both people and land, so a different verb must be used for each one. The end of verse 19 specifies how the land would “die.” See how you translated a similar rhetorical question in verse 15. Alternate translation: [What good would it do for us to die and our fields to become ruined] or [Please do not just watch us die or let our land become empty]
Buy us and our land {in exchange} for the bread
Quote: קְנֵֽה־אֹתָ֥נוּ וְאֶת־אַדְמָתֵ֖נוּ בַּלָּ֑חֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Consider again how you translated the synecdoche bread in the book of Genesis. See Gen 3:19 (and note); 14:18; 21:14; 28:20; 37:25; 38:6; 41:54-55; 43:31; 47:12, 15, 17, 19. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [Instead, please take us and our fields in exchange for food] or [Instead please give us food and we will give you our farmland and ourselves to pay for it]
and we and our land will be slaves to Pharaoh
Quote: וְנִֽהְיֶ֞ה אֲנַ֤חְנוּ וְאַדְמָתֵ֨נוּ֙ עֲבָדִ֣ים לְפַרְעֹ֔ה (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [Then our fields will belong to King Pharaoh and we will work for him as his servants]
Give {us} seed
Quote: וְתֶן־זֶ֗רַע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Alternate translation: [Please give us seeds to sow]
so that we will live
Quote: וְנִֽחְיֶה֙ (1)Alternate translation: [so that we can survive] or [so that we will stay alive]
and not die
Quote: וְלֹ֣א נָמ֔וּת (1)See how you translated so that we will live and not die in Gen 42:2. Alternate translation: [and not die from hunger]
and the land will not be desolate
Quote: וְהָאֲדָמָ֖ה לֹ֥א תֵשָֽׁם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it may be clearer and more natural to put this clause earlier in this sentence and say, “Please just give us seeds to plant so that the land will produce/grow food crops again and then we will survive and not die from hunger!” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [and so that the land will grow crops again!]
Genesis 47:20
Then Joseph bought
Quote: וַיִּ֨קֶן יוֹסֵ֜ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
For some languages it may be necessary to make explicit that Joseph agreed to do what the people suggested. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [So Joseph agreed and bought] or [Joseph did what they asked and bought]
all the {farm}land of Egypt for Pharaoh
Quote: אֶת־כָּל־אַדְמַ֤ת מִצְרַ֨יִם֙ לְפַרְעֹ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [all the farmland in the country of Egypt for Pharaoh]
because every Egyptian sold his field
Quote: כִּֽי־מָכְר֤וּ מִצְרַ֨יִם֙ אִ֣ישׁ שָׂדֵ֔הוּ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [All the Egyptians gave their fields to him in exchange for grain]
because … the famine
Quote: כִּֽי & הָרָעָ֑ב (1)Consider again how you translated famine in the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:10; 26:1; 41:27, 30-31, 36, 50, 54-57; 42:5; 43:1; 45:6, 11; 47:4, 13, 20. It may be necessary to translate it in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [because the food scarcity]
was heavy for them
Quote: חָזַ֥ק עֲלֵהֶ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
See how you translated heavy in verses 4 and 13. For some languages, it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of clauses in this verse and say, “The famine was very severe for all the Egyptian people, so Joseph agreed with their request/suggestion and let them sell their fields to him in exchange for grain/food. In that way, Joseph/he bought/acquired all the land/farmland in the country of Egypt for King Pharaoh, so that all the land became Pharaoh’s property.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [was very severe] or [was so severe that they did not have enough to eat]
So the land became Pharaoh’s
Quote: וַתְּהִ֥י הָאָ֖רֶץ לְפַרְעֹֽה (1)Alternate translation: [That is how all the farmland eventually belonged to King Pharaoh]
Genesis 47:21
And {as for} the people, he moved them to the cities
Quote: וְאֶ֨ת־הָעָ֔ם הֶעֱבִ֥יר אֹת֖וֹ לֶעָרִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants
The Masoretic Hebrew text has moved them to the cities here, which Joseph may have done in order to make the grain more readily accessible to them. The Samaritan Pentateuch (a different Hebrew version) and the Septuagint (Greek translation of the Hebrew text) have “made the people slaves” instead, which may refer to the fact that all the people would now be working for Pharaoh, since all the fields belonged to him. The textual variant that is not used in your translation could be put in a footnote. Alternate translation: [Joseph also moved all the people from their farmlands to the nearby cities]
from {one} end of the border of Egypt to its {other} end
Quote: מִקְצֵ֥ה גְבוּל־מִצְרַ֖יִם וְעַד־קָצֵֽהוּ (1)Alternate translation: [in every part of the country of Egypt]
Genesis 47:22
because {there was} an allotment for the priests from Pharaoh
Quote: כִּי֩ חֹ֨ק לַכֹּהֲנִ֜ים מֵאֵ֣ת פַּרְעֹ֗ה (1)Alternate translation: [because Pharaoh gave them a regular food allowance]
and they ate {from} their allotment that Pharaoh gave to them
Quote: וְאָֽכְל֤וּ אֶת־חֻקָּם֙ אֲשֶׁ֨ר נָתַ֤ן לָהֶם֙ פַּרְעֹ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [so that they had plenty to eat]
For that {reason} they did not sell their land
Quote: עַל־כֵּ֕ן לֹ֥א מָכְר֖וּ אֶת־אַדְמָתָֽם (1)Alternate translation: [That is why they did not need to sell their farmland to buy food]
Genesis 47:23
Then Joseph said to the people
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יוֹסֵף֙ אֶל־הָעָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then Joseph declared to the Egyptian people]
Behold
Quote: הֵן֩ (1)Alternate translation: [Look]
today I have bought you and your land for Pharaoh
Quote: קָנִ֨יתִי אֶתְכֶ֥ם הַיּ֛וֹם וְאֶת־אַדְמַתְכֶ֖ם לְפַרְעֹ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [now that I have acquired you and your fields for King Pharaoh] or [now that you and your fields belong to King Pharaoh]
Here {is} seed for you
Quote: הֵֽא־לָכֶ֣ם זֶ֔רַע (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [I am giving you some seeds]
so that you can sow the ground
Quote: וּזְרַעְתֶּ֖ם אֶת־הָאֲדָמָֽה (1)See how you translated “sowed” in Gen 26:12. Alternate translation: [to plant in the fields]
Genesis 47:24
And it will happen in the harvests
Quote: וְהָיָה֙ בַּתְּבוּאֹ֔ת (1)Alternate translation: [Then whenever you gather the crops] or [Then every harvest time]
that you must give a fifth to Pharaoh
Quote: וּנְתַתֶּ֥ם חֲמִישִׁ֖ית לְפַרְעֹ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [you are required to give one-fifth of the crops to him] or [you must give Pharaoh one-fifth of the crops you gather]
and the four parts
Quote: וְאַרְבַּ֣ע הַיָּדֹ֡ת (1)Consider whether or not it is best in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [but the other four-fifths] or [The other four-fifths of your harvest] or [The rest of what you gather]
will be for you
Quote: יִהְיֶ֣ה לָכֶם֩ (1)Alternate translation: [you may keep for yourselves]
as seed of the field
Quote: לְזֶ֨רַע הַשָּׂדֶ֧ה (1)Alternate translation: [as seed to plant the fields] or [to plant seeds in the fields]
and as your food and for those in your houses
Quote: וּֽלְאָכְלְכֶ֛ם וְלַאֲשֶׁ֥ר בְּבָתֵּיכֶ֖ם (1)Alternate translation: [and as food for you and your households] or [and for you and your households to eat]
Genesis 47:25
And they said
Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֖וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then they responded] or [The people said to him]
You have kept us alive
Quote: הֶחֱיִתָ֑נוּ (1)Alternate translation: [You have made it so we can live!]
Let us find favor in the eyes of my lord
Quote: נִמְצָא־חֵן֙ בְּעֵינֵ֣י אֲדֹנִ֔י (1)Alternate translation: [May we continue to find favor in your eyes sir] or [Please continue to be kind to us, master]
and we will be slaves for Pharaoh
Quote: וְהָיִ֥ינוּ עֲבָדִ֖ים לְפַרְעֹֽה (1)Alternate translation: [and we will serve King Pharaoh as his slaves]
Genesis 47:26
And Joseph established it as a law
Quote: וַיָּ֣שֶׂם אֹתָ֣הּ יוֹסֵ֡ף לְחֹק֩ (1)Alternate translation: [So Joseph established a law]
to this day
Quote: עַד־הַיּ֨וֹם הַזֶּ֜ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
This phrase refers to the time that Moses was writing the book of Genesis. You could put that information in a footnote. For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to put this phrase at the end of the sentence and say, “That law is still in effect/force today/now.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [that is still in force now]
concerning the {farm}land of Egypt, {that} the fifth {belongs} to Pharaoh
Quote: עַל־אַדְמַ֥ת מִצְרַ֛יִם לְפַרְעֹ֖ה לַחֹ֑מֶשׁ (1)See how you translated “a fifth” in verse 24. Alternate translation: [concerning the fields in the country of Egypt: one-fifth of the crops belongs to Pharaoh] or [that required people to give to Pharaoh one-fifth of all the crops they harvested from the farmland in Egypt]
Only the land of the priests by itself did not become Pharaoh’s
Quote: רַ֞ק אַדְמַ֤ת הַכֹּֽהֲנִים֙ לְבַדָּ֔ם לֹ֥א הָיְתָ֖ה לְפַרְעֹֽה (1)See how you translated “only the land of the priests” in verse 22. Also, consider again how you translated “land/farmland” in verses 18-26. Alternate translation: [The only land that Pharaoh did not own was the land that belonged to the priests]
Genesis 47:27
And … settled
Quote: וַיֵּ֧שֶׁב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background
It was already mentioned in verse 11 that Israel (Jacob) had settled in the country of Egypt. Your translation of verse 27 should not imply that he settled there again. Alternate translation: [So] or [Meanwhile]
Israel
Quote: יִשְׂרָאֵ֛ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The name Israel and the name “Jacob” refer to the same person. To make that clear, you could make “Jacob” explicit here in your translation or in a footnote. Alternate translation: [Israel that is, Jacob]
And … settled
Quote: וַיֵּ֧שֶׁב (1)Alternate translation: [had settled with his family] or [was dwelling with his family]
in the land of Egypt, in the land of Goshen
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרַ֖יִם בְּאֶ֣רֶץ גֹּ֑שֶׁן (1)See how you translated in the land of Goshen in Gen 45:10. Alternate translation: [in the region of Goshen in the land of Egypt] or [in Goshen County in the country of Egypt]
and they acquired {possessions
Quote: וַיֵּאָחֲז֣וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This phrase is general here and refers to acquiring land and other possessions. Alternate translation: [and they gained many possessions] or [and owned much land]
in it
Quote: בָ֔הּ (1)Alternate translation: [in that region]
And they were fruitful
Quote: וַיִּפְר֥וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated a similar phrase (“be fruitful and multiply”) in Gen 35:11. Alternate translation: [They were fruitful]
and multiplied greatly
Quote: וַיִּרְבּ֖וּ מְאֹֽד (1)Alternate translation: [and their numbers increased greatly] or [and became very many]
Genesis 47:28
And Jacob lived in the land of Egypt seventeen years
Quote: וַיְחִ֤י יַעֲקֹב֙ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֔יִם שְׁבַ֥ע עֶשְׂרֵ֖ה שָׁנָ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [When Jacob had lived in the country of Egypt for seventeen years]
and the days of Jacob, the years of his life, were 147 years
Quote: וַיְהִ֤י יְמֵֽי־יַעֲקֹב֙ שְׁנֵ֣י חַיָּ֔יו שֶׁ֣בַע שָׁנִ֔ים וְאַרְבָּעִ֥ים וּמְאַ֖ת שָׁנָֽה (1)Alternate translation: [he reached the age of 147 years]
Genesis 47:29
and the days of Israel drew near {for him} to die
Quote: וַיִּקְרְב֣וּ יְמֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֘ל לָמוּת֒ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [When it was almost time for Israel to die] or [He knew that it was almost time for him to die, so]
So he called for his son, for Joseph
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֣א ׀ לִבְנ֣וֹ לְיוֹסֵ֗ף (1)Alternate translation: [he asked for his son Joseph to come to him]
If, please, I have found favor in your eyes
Quote: אִם־נָ֨א מָצָ֤אתִי חֵן֙ בְּעֵינֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Alternate translation: [Please show your favor toward me and] or [Please, if you truly love me]
please put your hand under my thigh
Quote: שִֽׂים־נָ֥א יָדְךָ֖ תַּ֣חַת יְרֵכִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
See how you translated this clause in Gen 24:2, and see the note about this custom there. Alternate translation: [put your hand under my leg to show that you will do what I ask] or [make a vow by putting your hand under my leg]
and deal with me {in} kindness and faithfulness
Quote: וְעָשִׂ֤יתָ עִמָּדִי֙ חֶ֣סֶד וֶאֱמֶ֔ת (1)Consider again how you translated kindness in Gen 19:19; 20:13; 21:23; 24:12, 14, 27, 49; 32:10; 39:21; 40:14; 47:29, and how you translated faithfulness in Gen 24:27, 48, 49; 32:10; 42:16; 47:29.
Please do not bury me
Quote: אַל־נָ֥א תִקְבְּרֵ֖נִי (1)Make sure your translation of bury me does not sound like Israel would still be alive when he was buried. Alternate translation: [Please promise that you will not bury my bones]
in Egypt
Quote: בְּמִצְרָֽיִם (1)Alternate translation: [here in the land of Egypt]
Genesis 47:30
And {when} I lie down with my fathers
Quote: וְשָֽׁכַבְתִּי֙ עִם־אֲבֹתַ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
The phrase lie down with my fathers is a idiom that refers to Jacob’s death. See how you translated an idiom with a similar meaning in Gen 15:15. Alternate translation: [When I die and rest with my ancestors] or [Rather, after I die and join my ancestors who have gone before me]
then carry me out of Egypt
Quote: וּנְשָׂאתַ֨נִי֙ מִמִּצְרַ֔יִם (1)See how you translated me in verse 29. Alternate translation: [carry my body out of Egypt to the region of Canaan]
and bury me in their tomb
Quote: וּקְבַרְתַּ֖נִי בִּקְבֻרָתָ֑ם (1)Jacob is referring here to the cave near the city of Hebron that Abraham had bought as a family burial place, to bury Sarah there. Abraham, Isaac and Rebekah were also buried there (Gen 23:19-20; 25:9-10; 49:31). You could put some of that information in a footnote. Also see how you translated “grave” in Gen 35:20 and a different word with a similar meaning (“burial place”) in Gen 23:4, 6, 9, 20. Alternate translation: [and bury me in the same burial place where their bodies are]
And he said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֕ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Make sure it is clear in your translation that Joseph is the one speaking here. It may be helpful to read this paragraph aloud to make sure it is clear who is talking at each point in the conversation. Alternate translation: [Then Joseph replied to him]
I will do according to your word
Quote: אָנֹכִ֖י אֶֽעֱשֶׂ֥ה כִדְבָרֶֽךָ (1)Alternate translation: [I will do as you requested of me] or [I will do exactly what you asked me to do]
Genesis 47:31
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Consider what is the best way to refer to Joseph’s father Israel here in your language. Alternate translation: [But he urged him]
Swear to me
Quote: הִשָּֽׁבְעָה֙ לִ֔י (1)See how you translated “swear to me” in Gen 21:23. Alternate translation: [Vow to me by Yahweh that you will do it] or [With God as your witness, make an oath to me that you will do it]
And he swore to him
Quote: וַיִּשָּׁבַ֖ע ל֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Make sure it is clear in your translation that Joseph is the one speaking here. Alternate translation: [So Joseph swore that he would do it] or [So Joseph promised his father with an oath to do what he had requested]
Then Israel bowed
Quote: וַיִּשְׁתַּ֥חוּ יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
If it is not clear in your culture why Israel bowed, you could make that explicit. Alternate translation: [Then Israel bowed down to thank God] or [Then his father Israel bowed his head and thanked God]
at the head of the bed
Quote: עַל־רֹ֥אשׁ הַמִּטָּֽה (1)The Hebrew text has at the head of the bed here, while the Septuagint (Greek translation of the Old Testament) has “on the top of his staff” instead, which is quoted in Hebrews 11:21. You could include some of that information in a footnote. The difference between versions may be due to the fact that the Hebrew words for bed and “staff” are very similar in spelling. Or it could be that Jacob did both; for example, he may have been sitting at the head of his bed and leaning on his staff when he bowed his head and worshiped God. Alternate translation: [as he sat at the top of his bed] or [as he was lying on his bed]
Genesis 48
Genesis 48:1
Then it happened after those things
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י אַחֲרֵי֙ הַדְּבָרִ֣ים הָאֵ֔לֶּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
Consider again how you translated these two phrases in the book of Genesis. See Gen 22:1, 20; 39:7; 40:1; 48:1.
that {someone} said to Joseph, “Behold, your father is sick
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לְיוֹסֵ֔ף הִנֵּ֥ה אָבִ֖יךָ חֹלֶ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
For some languages it may be more natural to use an indirect quote here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Joseph was told by someone that his father was sick]
So he took his two sons with him, Manasseh and Ephraim
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֞ח אֶת־שְׁנֵ֤י בָנָיו֙ עִמּ֔וֹ אֶת־מְנַשֶּׁ֖ה וְאֶת־אֶפְרָֽיִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Consider what is the best way to refer to Joseph in this sentence in your language. Alternate translation: [So Joseph took his two sons Manasseh and Ephraim with him to visit his father] or [So he went to visit his father and took his two sons Manasseh and Ephraim with him]
Genesis 48:2
And {someone} announced to Jacob and said, “Behold, your son Joseph has come to you
Quote: וַיַּגֵּ֣ד לְיַעֲקֹ֔ב וַיֹּ֕אמֶר הִנֵּ֛ה בִּנְךָ֥ יוֹסֵ֖ף בָּ֣א אֵלֶ֑יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Consider whether it is better in your language to use a direct or indirect quote here.
Then Israel gathered his strength
Quote: וַיִּתְחַזֵּק֙ יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Consider whether you language has a similar idiom that fits well here. Also, make sure it is clear in your translation or in a footnote that Israel (verses 2, 8, 11, 13-14, 21) and Jacob (verses 2-3) refer to the same person, not two different people. Alternate translation: [Then Israel rallied his strength] or [Immediately Israel, who was lying down, used all his strength]
and sat up on the bed
Quote: וַיֵּ֖שֶׁב עַל־הַמִּטָּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The context (verse 12) shows that Jacob sat on the edge of his bed with his feet resting on the floor and his knees facing Joseph’s sons. Also, for some languages it may be necessary (for politeness) to make it explicit that they greeted each other first before continuing their conversation. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [and sat up on the edge of his bed and they greeted each other]
Genesis 48:3
Then Jacob said to Joseph
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יַעֲקֹב֙ אֶל־יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then Jacob recounted to Joseph the following:]
God Almighty
Quote: אֵ֥ל שַׁדַּ֛י (1)Consider again how you translated God Almighty in the book of Genesis. See Gen 17:1; 28:3; 35:11; 43:14. Alternate translation: [Almighty God]
appeared to me
Quote: נִרְאָֽה־אֵלַ֥י (1)Consider again how you translated “appear” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 8:5; 12:7; 17:1; 18:1; 26:2, 24; 35:1, 9; 46:29; 48:3. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [came to me in a vision long ago]
at Luz in the land of Canaan
Quote: בְּל֖וּז בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנָ֑עַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to put the larger place (Canaan) first before the smaller place (Luz) that is located inside it. It may also be more natural to put the time and place phrases first in this verse and say, “Long ago when I was at the town of Luz in the land/region of Canaan, God Almighty …” Do what is best in your language. Also see how you spelled the name Luz in Gen 28:19 and 35:6. Alternate translation: [when I was at the town of Luz in the land of Canaan] or [in the land of Canaan at the town of Luz]
and he blessed me
Quote: וַיְבָ֖רֶךְ אֹתִֽי (1)For some languages it is more natural to begin a new sentence here. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [He pronounced a blessing over me there]
Genesis 48:4
and said to me
Quote: וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלַ֗י (1)Make sure your translation of “blessed … and said” (verses 3-4) refers to the same event, not two separate events. Alternate translation: [He said]
Behold, I am making you fruitful, and I will multiply you and make you
Quote: הִנְנִ֤י מַפְרְךָ֙ וְהִרְבִּיתִ֔ךָ וּנְתַתִּ֖יךָ (1)See how you translated “make you fruitful and multiply you” in Gen 28:3 and “make him fruitful and … multiply him” in Gen 17:20. Alternate translation: [Look I will give you many descendants who will increase in number and become] or [Look I will give you and your descendants many children so that your descendants will become]
into a community of peoples
Quote: לִקְהַ֣ל עַמִּ֑ים (1)See how you translated this phrase in Gen 28:3, and a similar phrase (“a community of nations”) in 35:11. Alternate translation: [many ethnic groups]
as} an everlasting possession
Quote: אֲחֻזַּ֥ת עוֹלָֽם (1)Alternate translation: [for an eternal possession] or [and it will always belong to them]
Genesis 48:5
And now, your two sons
Quote: וְעַתָּ֡ה שְׁנֵֽי־בָנֶיךָ֩ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
The phrase And now shows that there is a change of topic. Make sure it is clear in your translation that Jacob is no longer quoting God’s words in verse 5.
in the land of Egypt
Quote: בְּאֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֗יִם (1)Alternate translation: [here in the land of Egypt]
before I came to you in Egypt
Quote: עַד־בֹּאִ֥י אֵלֶ֛יךָ מִצְרַ֖יְמָה (1)Alternate translation: [before I arrived]
they {are} mine, Ephraim and Manasseh
Quote: לִי־הֵ֑ם אֶפְרַ֨יִם֙ וּמְנַשֶּׁ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [Ephraim and Manasseh, they now belong to me] or [Ephraim and Manasseh, will be my sons]
just as Reuben and Simeon are mine
Quote: כִּרְאוּבֵ֥ן וְשִׁמְע֖וֹן יִֽהְיוּ־לִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it may be clearer and more natural to put the names of these sons earlier in the verse and say, “Now then, your two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, who were born to you here in the country of Egypt before I joined you here, I will treat as my sons, just as/like …” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [just as Reuben and Simeon are my sons] or [just as my sons Reuben and Simeon]
Genesis 48:6
But your children whom you father after them will be yours
Quote: וּמוֹלַדְתְּךָ֛ אֲשֶׁר־הוֹלַ֥דְתָּ אַחֲרֵיהֶ֖ם לְךָ֣ יִהְי֑וּ (1)Alternate translation: [But any other children that you have later on will be yours] or [If you father any other children, they will belong to you]
They will be called by the name of their brothers in their inheritance
Quote: עַ֣ל שֵׁ֧ם אֲחֵיהֶ֛ם יִקָּרְא֖וּ בְּנַחֲלָתָֽם (1)Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here or to continue the previous sentence. Alternate translation: [So they will share in some of what their brothers inherit from me]
Genesis 48:7
And I
Quote: וַאֲנִ֣י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Jacob is probably explaining in verse 7 that since his favorite wife Rachel died with only two sons, that is why he is treating her son Joseph’s two sons as his sons (verses 5-6). You could make some of that information explicit in your translation or include it in a footnote. Alternate translation: [I want it this way because]
as I was coming
Quote: בְּבֹאִ֣י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Jacob is in focus here, but he was traveling with his family, not alone. Decide whether or not it is necessary to make that explicit in your translation. Alternate translation: [as I and our family were coming home] or [as our family was coming home]
from Paddan
Quote: מִפַּדָּ֗ן (1)Consider again how you translated “the land/region of Paddan Aram” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 25:20 (and note); 28:2, 5-7; 31:18; 33:18; 35:9, 26; 46:15; 48:7. Also, be consistent with how you spelled “Aram” in those verses and in Gen 10:22-23; 22:21; 24:10. Alternate translation: [from the land of Paddan Aram]
Rachel
Quote: רָחֵ֜ל (1)Alternate translation: [my beloved wife Rachel]
died beside me
Quote: מֵ֩תָה֩ עָלַ֨י (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here because the preposition can have different meanings. It could mean: (1) died beside me or “died by my side”; or (2) “died, bringing sorrow/grief on/to me”
on the way, while {there was} still a distance of land to go to Ephrath
Quote: בַּדֶּ֔רֶךְ בְּע֥וֹד כִּבְרַת־אֶ֖רֶץ לָבֹ֣א אֶפְרָ֑תָה (1)Be consistent here with how you spelled Ephrath in Gen 35:16, 19, and how you spelled Bethlehem in 35:19.
which {is} Bethlehem
Quote: הִ֖וא בֵּ֥ית לָֽחֶם (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. This phrase might be: (1) Jacob’s words; or (2) the author’s words. If you follow the second interpretation, you could put this phrase within parentheses, outside of the quote marks.
Genesis 48:8
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר (1)Alternate translation: [and asked Joseph]
Who {are} these
Quote: מִי־אֵֽלֶּה (1)Joseph’s two sons were in their 20s at this time, so refer to them here with a term that fits with that fact. They were born before the famine started (Gen 41:50-52), and Jacob had now been in Egypt for 17 years (47:28). Alternate translation: [Whose sons are these?]
Genesis 48:9
And Joseph said to his father
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יוֹסֵף֙ אֶל־אָבִ֔יו (1)Alternate translation: [Joseph said to him] or [Joseph replied]
They {are} my sons whom God has given to me
Quote: בָּנַ֣י הֵ֔ם אֲשֶׁר־נָֽתַן־לִ֥י אֱלֹהִ֖ים (1)Alternate translation: [They are my sons whom God gave to me]
Then he said
Quote: וַיֹּאמַ֕ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Make sure it is clear in your translation who is speaking here. Alternate translation: [Then Israel said to him]
Please bring them to me
Quote: קָֽחֶם־נָ֥א אֵלַ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual
Some languages have a dual pronoun that works well to refer to Joseph’s two sons here (and throughout chapter 48). Do what is best in your language.
and I will bless them
Quote: וַאֲבָרֲכֵֽם (1)Alternate translation: [so that I can ask God to prosper them]
Genesis 48:10
Now the eyes of Israel were heavy
Quote: וְעֵינֵ֤י יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ כָּבְד֣וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
Consider whether or not it is natural in your language to use a conjunction (Now) to begin this clause that gives background information about Israel. Also, the word heavy is used here as an idiom that means Israel’s eyesight was getting bad, but he could still see some (as indicated in verses 8 and 11). Many languages have a similar idiom. A translation of verse 10 should not imply that Israel was completely blind. Alternate translation: [Israel had very bad eyesight]
from age
Quote: מִזֹּ֔קֶן (1)Alternate translation: [because he was very old]
so that} he was not able to see
Quote: לֹ֥א יוּכַ֖ל לִרְא֑וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is more natural to switch the order of the clauses in this sentence and say, “Now Israel was very old, so his eyesight was failing and he was not able to see very well.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [so that he could not see very well]
So he brought them near to him
Quote: וַיַּגֵּ֤שׁ אֹתָם֙ אֵלָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Make sure it is clear in your translation whom is being referred to at each point in this sentence. Alternate translation: [So Joseph brought his sons near to his father] or [So he had his sons stand near to his father]
and he kissed them
Quote: וַיִּשַּׁ֥ק לָהֶ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
It may be helpful to read this sentence aloud in your translation to make sure the use of nouns and pronouns is natural and accurate in your language. Alternate translation: [and Israel kissed them on the cheeks] or [and his father kissed …]
and embraced them
Quote: וַיְחַבֵּ֥ק לָהֶֽם (1)Consider again how you translated the word embraced in the book of Genesis. See Gen 29:13; 33:4; 48:10. Also compare that to how you translated an idiom (“fell on … neck”) that has a similar meaning in Gen 33:4; 45:14, 46:29. It may be necessary to translate these terms in different ways, depending on the context.
Genesis 48:11
I did not expect to see your face
Quote: רְאֹ֥ה פָנֶ֖יךָ לֹ֣א פִלָּ֑לְתִּי (1)Alternate translation: [I did not think I would ever see you again]
but behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֨ה (1)Alternate translation: [but amazingly]
God has let me see also your offspring
Quote: הֶרְאָ֥ה אֹתִ֛י אֱלֹהִ֖ים גַּ֥ם אֶת־זַרְעֶֽךָ (1)Alternate translation: [God has allowed me to see even your offspring] or [God has also allowed me to see your offspring]
Genesis 48:12
Then Joseph removed them
Quote: וַיּוֹצֵ֥א יוֹסֵ֛ף אֹתָ֖ם (1)Alternate translation: [Then Joseph took his sons away] or [Then Joseph had his sons step away]
from beside his knees
Quote: מֵעִ֣ם בִּרְכָּ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Joseph’s sons (who were in their 20s) were near Israel’s knees, so that he could hug them; they were not sitting on his knees or lap. Also make sure your translation of his refers to Joseph’s father (Israel/Jacob), not Joseph. Alternate translation: [from near his father]
and he bowed down
Quote: וַיִּשְׁתַּ֥חוּ (1)Alternate translation: [and he prostrated himself before him]
with his nose to the ground
Quote: לְאַפָּ֖יו אָֽרְצָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
Joseph bowed to the ground to show thankfulness and respect to his father and possibly also to God. If necessary, you could make that information explicit in your translation or put it in a footnote. Alternate translation: [with his face toward the ground in thankfulness and respect]
Genesis 48:13
Then Joseph took
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֣ח יוֹסֵף֮ (1)Alternate translation: [Then he took]
both of them
Quote: אֶת־שְׁנֵיהֶם֒ (1)Alternate translation: [both of his sons]
Ephraim on his right
Quote: אֶת־אֶפְרַ֤יִם בִּֽימִינוֹ֙ (1)Alternate translation: [with Ephraim at his right hand]
and Manasseh on his left
Quote: וְאֶת־מְנַשֶּׁ֥ה בִשְׂמֹאל֖וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [and with Manasseh at his left hand]
and brought {them} near to him
Quote: וַיַּגֵּ֖שׁ אֵלָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to put this clause first in this verse and say, “Then he took/brought his sons close to his father again. He had Ephraim stand in front of Israel’s left hand/side, and he had Manasseh stand in front of Israel’s right hand/side.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [and he took them close to his father again]
Genesis 48:14
and {he placed} his left hand on the head of Manasseh. He guided his hands
Quote: וְאֶת־שְׂמֹאל֖וֹ עַל־רֹ֣אשׁ מְנַשֶּׁ֑ה שִׂכֵּל֙ אֶת־יָדָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
In the Hebrew culture, the right side was the place of highest honor and using the right hand to bless someone was symbolic of giving greater honor to that person. The oldest son was also the one who normally received the greater blessing. Israel reverses that here and gives Joseph’s younger son the greater blessing. It may be important to include a footnote in your translation that gives this information.
because
Quote: כִּ֥י (1)Make sure that the way you translate because fits with the fact that Israel wanted to place his right hand on Ephraim (to give him the greater blessing), even though Manasseh was the firstborn (who would normally receive the greater blessing in that culture). Alternate translation: [in spite of the fact that]
Genesis 48:15
Then he blessed Joseph and said
Quote: וַיְבָ֥רֶךְ אֶת־יוֹסֵ֖ף וַיֹּאמַ֑ר (1)Israel blessed Joseph by blessing Joseph’s sons (verses 15-16, 19-20). Alternate translation: [Then Israel blessed Joseph by blessing his sons and saying]
May the God
Quote: הָֽאֱלֹהִ֡ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
For some languages it may be necessary to make it explicit here that this prayer is a blessing for Joseph’s sons (rather than waiting until that is made clear in verse 16). Do what is best in your language. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to break up the long sentence in verses 15-16 into shorter sentences. Alternate translation: [May God bless your sons, the God] or [I pray that God will bless your sons, the God] or [I ask God to bless your sons. He is the God]
whom my fathers Abraham and Isaac
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֩ & אֲבֹתַ֤י & אַבְרָהָ֣ם וְיִצְחָ֔ק (1)Alternate translation: [whom my forefathers Abraham and Isaac]
walked before
Quote: הִתְהַלְּכ֨וּ & לְפָנָיו֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the idiom “walk/live before” in Gen 17:1 and 24:40. You may need to translate it differently in different contexts. Alternate translation: [walked with according to his will] or [lived obediently in the presence of] or [obeyed]
the God who has been shepherding me
Quote: הָֽאֱלֹהִים֙ הָרֹעֶ֣ה אֹתִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The word “shepherded” includes guiding, protecting, and providing food and water, such as a shepherd would do for his sheep. Here it is used as a metaphor that refers to God’s complete care of Israel throughout his life. Consider whether or not it is best in your language to use a similar metaphor here. For example, you could say, “He is the same God who, for my entire life, has taken care of all my needs, just as a good shepherd takes care of his sheep.” Alternate translation: [the same God who has watched over me] or [He is the same God who has taken care of me]
from since I {was born} until this day
Quote: מֵעוֹדִ֖י עַד־הַיּ֥וֹם הַזֶּֽה (1)Alternate translation: [from the beginning of my life until the present day]
Genesis 48:16
the Angel who has redeemed me from all evil
Quote: הַמַּלְאָךְ֩ הַגֹּאֵ֨ל אֹתִ֜י מִכָּל־רָ֗ע (1)Consider whether it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also consider again how you translated “angel” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 16:7, 9-11; 19:1, 15; 21:17; 22:11, 15; 24:7, 40; 28:12; 31:11; 32:3, 6; 48:16. Alternate translation: [He is also the Angel who rescued me continually from all harm]
may he bless {these} boys
Quote: יְבָרֵךְ֮ אֶת־הַנְּעָרִים֒ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here; your decision will depend on how you translated verse 15. Also, since Joseph’s sons were probably in their 20s, make sure your translation of this phrase does not sound like they were little boys. The Hebrew word for “boy” here can also be translated as “lad,” “servant,” or “young man,” depending on the context and who is speaking to whom. With that in mind, consider again how you translated this word in the book of Genesis. See Gen 14:24; 18:7; 19:4; 21:12, 17-20; 22:3, 5, 12, 19; 25:27; 34:19; 37:2; 41:12; 43:8; 44:22, 30-34; 48:16. Alternate translation: [I ask that he will cause these young men to prosper greatly]
and may my name be called in them, and the name of my fathers Abraham and Isaac, and may they grow into a multitude in the midst of the earth
Quote: וְיִקָּרֵ֤א בָהֶם֙ שְׁמִ֔י וְשֵׁ֥ם אֲבֹתַ֖י אַבְרָהָ֣ם וְיִצְחָ֑ק וְיִדְגּ֥וּ לָרֹ֖ב בְּקֶ֥רֶב הָאָֽרֶץ (1)Alternate translation: [so that my family name and the family name of my ancestors Abraham and Isaac will continue through them and so that they will have many descendants on the earth] or [I pray that they will have many descendants on the earth who will carry on the family name for me and for my forefathers Abraham and Isaac]
Genesis 48:17
And Joseph saw that his father had placed his right hand on the head of Ephraim
Quote: וַיַּ֣רְא יוֹסֵ֗ף כִּי־יָשִׁ֨ית אָבִ֧יו יַד־יְמִינ֛וֹ עַל־רֹ֥אשׁ אֶפְרַ֖יִם (1)See how you translated placed in verse 14.
and it was displeasing in his eyes
Quote: וַיֵּ֣רַע בְּעֵינָ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Alternate translation: [it displeased him] or [he was unhappy about it]
so he took hold of the hand of his father
Quote: וַיִּתְמֹ֣ךְ יַד־אָבִ֗יו (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Genesis 48:18
Not so, my father, because that {one} {is} the firstborn son
Quote: לֹא־כֵ֣ן אָבִ֑י כִּי־זֶ֣ה הַבְּכֹ֔ר (1)Alternate translation: [Not like that, Father. It is the other son who is my firstborn] or [That is the wrong one Father. The other one is my oldest son]
Put your right hand on his head
Quote: שִׂ֥ים יְמִינְךָ֖ עַל־רֹאשֽׁוֹ (1)Alternate translation: [So you need to put your right hand on his head]
Genesis 48:19
But his father refused
Quote: וַיְמָאֵ֣ן אָבִ֗יו (1)Alternate translation: [But his father refused to move his hands]
I know, my son, I know
Quote: יָדַ֤עְתִּֽי בְנִי֙ יָדַ֔עְתִּי (1)Alternate translation: [I know it my son, I know what I am doing] or [I know what I am doing, my son]
He will also become a people, and he will also be great
Quote: גַּם־ה֥וּא יִֽהְיֶה־לְּעָ֖ם וְגַם־ה֣וּא יִגְדָּ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Consider what is the best way in your language to refer to Joseph’s firstborn in these two clauses. Alternate translation: [In fact, the descendants of your firstborn son will also become a ethnic group, and he will be a great man] or [In fact, your firstborn son will also be a important man, and he will be the ancestor of a people group]
Nevertheless his younger brother will be greater than he
Quote: וְאוּלָ֗ם אָחִ֤יו הַקָּטֹן֙ יִגְדַּ֣ל מִמֶּ֔נּוּ (1)Alternate translation: [However, his younger brother Ephraim will be even greater than he will be]
and his offspring
Quote: וְזַרְע֖וֹ (1)Make sure that your translation of this phrase refers to Ephraim’s descendants, not Manasseh’s. Alternate translation: [with many descendants, who]
will become a multitude of nations
Quote: יִהְיֶ֥ה מְלֹֽא־הַגּוֹיִֽם (1)Compare how you translated a similar phrase (“a community of peoples”) in verse 4. Alternate translation: [will become many ethnic groups]
Genesis 48:20
And he blessed them on that day
Quote: וַיְבָ֨רֲכֵ֜ם בַּיּ֣וֹם הַהוּא֮ (1)Alternate translation: [That same day, Israel blessed both of them]
saying
Quote: לֵאמוֹר֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [and said]
By you Israel will bless {people
Quote: בְּךָ֗ יְבָרֵ֤ךְ יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ (1)Alternate translation: [The people of Israel will use your names when they bless someone] or [When the people of Israel say a blessing over someone, they will use your names]
May God make you
Quote: יְשִֽׂמְךָ֣ אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)Alternate translation: [May God bless you] or [We ask God to make you great]
like Ephraim and like Manasseh
Quote: כְּאֶפְרַ֖יִם וְכִמְנַשֶּׁ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [like he blessed Ephraim and Manasseh]
So he put Ephraim before Manasseh
Quote: וַיָּ֥שֶׂם אֶת־אֶפְרַ֖יִם לִפְנֵ֥י מְנַשֶּֽׁה (1)Alternate translation: [When he said that, he put Ephraim ahead of Manasseh] or [In that way, he made Ephraim greater than Manasseh]
Genesis 48:21
Then Israel said to Joseph
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ אֶל־יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Next Israel spoke to Joseph. He said]
Behold
Quote: הִנֵּ֥ה (1)Alternate translation: [Look]
I am dying
Quote: אָנֹכִ֖י מֵ֑ת (1)Alternate translation: [I will die soon]
and God will be with you
Quote: וְהָיָ֤ה אֱלֹהִים֙ עִמָּכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
The pronouns you and your are plural throughout this verse and probably refer to all Israel’s family, including Joseph, his brothers, and their descendants. Alternate translation: [but God will always stay with all of you and help you] or [but God will always stay with you and your brothers and all your descendants and help you]
and he will bring you back
Quote: וְהֵשִׁ֣יב אֶתְכֶ֔ם (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [He will also bring you back]
to the land of your fathers
Quote: אֶל־אֶ֖רֶץ אֲבֹתֵיכֶֽם (1)Alternate translation: [to the land that he gave to your forefathers]
Genesis 48:22
And I give you
Quote: וַאֲנִ֞י נָתַ֧תִּֽי לְךָ֛ (1)The pronouns you and your shift to singular in verse 22. Alternate translation: [And I bequeath to you as part of your inheritance]
Shechem
Quote: שְׁכֶ֥ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could refer to: (1) “the city of Shechem,” or (2) “a mountain slope/ridge,” This second interpretation comes from the meaning of the Hebrew word “shekem” (“shoulder”), which can be used as a metaphor to refer to a mountain slope or ridge.
one {portion} above your brothers
Quote: אַחַ֖ד עַל־אַחֶ֑יךָ (1)Alternate translation: [which is more land than I am giving to your brothers and]
which I took from the hand of
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֤ר לָקַ֨חְתִּי֙ מִיַּ֣ד (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [which I took control of from] or [I took that land from]
the Amorite{s} with my sword and with my bow
Quote: הָֽאֱמֹרִ֔י בְּחַרְבִּ֖י וּבְקַשְׁתִּֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it may be clearer to change the order of clauses in this verse and say, “Besides that, I hereby give you the city of Shechem, which I took/captured from the Amorites when I defeated them in battle. This is more land than I am giving to your brothers.” Do what is best in your language. Also consider again how you translated Amorites in the book of Genesis. See Gen 10:16; 14:7, 13; 15:16, 21; 48:22. Alternate translation: [the Amorites in battle using my sword and my bow]
Genesis 49
Genesis 49:1
Then Jacob called for his sons
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֥א יַעֲקֹ֖ב אֶל־בָּנָ֑יו (1)The events in chapter 49 may have occurred on the same day as the events in chapter 48, or not very long after that. Consider again how you translated called for in the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:18; 14:14; 20:2, 8-9; 24:57-58; 26:9; 27:1, 42; 28:1; 31:4; 39:14; 41:8, 14; 46:33; 47:29; 49:1.
and said
Quote: וַיֹּ֗אמֶר (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.
Gather together
Quote: הֵאָֽסְפוּ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry
Much of what Jacob says to his sons in verses 1-27 is Hebrew poetry, which is characterized by the use of parallelisms and metaphors to emphasize important points. Many translations put these verses in poetry format (starting here); many others use regular paragraph formatting. Do what is best in your language. For a complete list of verses that some translations treat as poetry in the book of Genesis, see the introduction to the book. Alternate translation: [Gather yourselves together before me]
and I will reveal to you
Quote: וְאַגִּ֣ידָה לָכֶ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [and I will declare to you] or [so that I can inform you]
what will meet you
Quote: אֵ֛ת אֲשֶׁר־יִקְרָ֥א אֶתְכֶ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Much of what Jacob prophesies in this chapter about his sons also applies to their descendants. Some translation teams may prefer to put that information in a footnote rather than make it explicit in the text. Do what is best in your language. Also see how you translated meet in Gen 42:4, 38.
in the end of days
Quote: בְּאַחֲרִ֥ית הַיָּמִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
In this context, this phrase refers to a period of years in the future. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: [in the days ahead] or [in future days]
Genesis 49:2
Assemble and listen, sons of Jacob
Quote: הִקָּבְצ֥וּ וְשִׁמְע֖וּ בְּנֵ֣י יַעֲקֹ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Make sure it is clear in your translation of this verse that Jacob is talking to his own sons and is referring to himself as both Jacob and as Israel. Also, for some languages it is more natural to put the address sons of Jacob first in verse 2, or even first in the quote (which begins in verse 1). Do what is best in your language.
and listen to Israel your father
Quote: וְשִׁמְע֖וּ אֶל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֥ל אֲבִיכֶֽם (1)This clause forms a parallelism with the previous clause to emphasize that Jacob wants his sons to listen to him carefully. Try to keep both halves of this parallelism in your translation, since each half has a slightly different focus. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [Pay attention to me, your father Israel]
Genesis 49:3
Reuben, you {are} my firstborn
Quote: רְאוּבֵן֙ בְּכֹ֣רִי אַ֔תָּה (1)Consider again how you translated firstborn in the book of Genesis. See Gen 4:4; 10:15; 19:31, 33-34, 37; 22:21; 25:13, 27; 27:19, 32; 29:26; 35:23; 36:15; 38:6-7; 41:51; 43:33; 46:8, 14; 48:18; 49:3. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
my might and the first of my strength
Quote: כֹּחִ֖י וְרֵאשִׁ֣ית אוֹנִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
This phrase is used here as a euphemistic idiom that refers to Jacob’s ability to have children. Other languages may have a similar idiom. Translate this in a way that will not embarrass or offend listeners. Alternate translation: [the result of my fertility, and the first child I had as a young man] or [You are the first sign of my manhood and strength]
excelling {in} rank and excelling {in} power
Quote: יֶ֥תֶר שְׂאֵ֖ת וְיֶ֥תֶר עָֽז (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [You had higher honor and authority than all your brothers]
Genesis 49:4
Turbulent
Quote: פַּ֤חַז (1)Alternate translation: [However, you are uncontrollable] or [However, you are reckless]
like waters
Quote: כַּמַּ֨יִם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
Here Jacob compares Reuben’s reckless, uncontrolled sexual behavior to turbulent water that is out of control and destructive. Consider whether or not you have a similar simile in your language that would fit well here. Alternate translation: [like a flood of water]
you will not excel
Quote: אַל־תּוֹתַ֔ר (1)Alternate translation: [so you will no longer have your high position in our family] or [so you will no longer be first among your brothers]
because you went up {onto} your father’s bed, and you defiled {it
Quote: כִּ֥י עָלִ֖יתָ מִשְׁכְּבֵ֣י אָבִ֑יךָ אָ֥ז חִלַּ֖לְתָּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
This clause, along with the rest of the verse, is a euphemistic way of referring to Reuben committing adultery by sleeping with his father’s concubine (secondary wife) Bilhah (Genesis 35:22). Alternate translation: [because you got into my bed with my wife and dishonored me!] or [because you dishonored me by getting into my bed and committing adultery with my concubine]
He went up {onto} my couch
Quote: יְצוּעִ֥י עָלָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Here Jacob repeats part of what he said in the previous clause, in order to emphasize Reuben’s sin against him and to communicate how upset he is about it. He may have still been talking to Reuben (switching from second to third person), or he may have been exclaiming about Reuben to himself and the rest of his sons.
Genesis 49:5
Simeon and Levi
Quote: שִׁמְע֥וֹן וְלֵוִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
In verses 3-27, Jacob sometimes refers to his sons using second person (“you”), and sometimes (as here) he uses third person (“they” or “he”). Consider whether or not it is better in your language to use second person throughout these verses, especially since Jacob is talking to his sons who are right there with him. Also, some languages have dual pronouns that fit well in verses 5-7. Alternate translation: [As for Simeon and Levi, they]
are} brothers
Quote: אַחִ֑ים (1)This phrase is used here as an idiom that emphasizes the fact that Simeon and Levi thought alike and acted together to do evil things. Alternate translation: [are close brothers] or [are partners in crime] or [do evil things together]
Their swords {are} weapons of violence
Quote: כְּלֵ֥י חָמָ֖ס מְכֵרֹתֵיהֶֽם (1)Make sure in your translation that the pronouns you use here (and in verses 6-7) fit with the way you translated the beginning of this verse. Alternate translation: [They use their weapons to do violent things together]
Genesis 49:6
Do not let my soul enter
Quote: אַל־תָּבֹ֣א נַפְשִׁ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here Jacob uses the phrase my soul to refer to himself and to emphasize how strongly he feels about what he is saying. Consider what is the best way to communicate that in your language. Alternate translation: [Do not ever let me] or [May I never]
Do not let … enter into their council
Quote: בְּסֹדָם֙ אַל־תָּבֹ֣א (1)In verses 5-7, Jacob is probably referring to the time when Simeon and Levi killed all the males in the city of Shechem out of revenge (Genesis 34:25-26, 30). Jacob was very upset that they did that. Alternate translation: [take part in their evil plans] or [participate with them when you plan evil things!]
Do not let my glory join in their assembly
Quote: בִּקְהָלָ֖ם אַל־תֵּחַ֣ד כְּבֹדִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
This clause forms a parallelism with the previous clause and emphasizes that Jacob is upset and does not want to participate with these two sons in their evil behavior. Consider what is the best way to translate that in your language. Alternate translation: [Do not let my honor be associated with your evil plans] or [I never want to be linked with their evil plans] or [I refuse to make evil plans with them]
because in their anger they killed a man
Quote: כִּ֤י בְאַפָּם֙ הָ֣רְגוּ אִ֔ישׁ (1)The phrase a man probably refers collectively here to all the men whom these two sons killed in the city of Shechem (Gen 34:25-26, 30). Alternate translation: [because you became angry and murdered many men]
and for their pleasure they hamstrung an ox
Quote: וּבִרְצֹנָ֖ם עִקְּרוּ־שֽׁוֹר (1)This may have happened during the time that Simeon and Levi took revenge on the people of Shechem. Alternate translation: [and just to please yourselves, you crippled some oxen so they could not walk] or [and you cut the leg tendons of some oxen just for the fun of it]
Genesis 49:7
Cursed {be} their anger because {it is} strong, and their fury because {it is} cruel
Quote: אָר֤וּר אַפָּם֙ כִּ֣י עָ֔ז וְעֶבְרָתָ֖ם כִּ֣י קָשָׁ֑תָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
Consider what is the best way to translate this parallelism in your language. Also, consider again how you translated “cursed” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 3:14 (and note), 17; 4:11; 5:29; 8:21; 9:25; 12:3; 27:12-13, 29; 49:7. Alternate translation: [May God curse them for your intense anger and your malicious fury!] or [I ask God to punish them for being so intensely angry and malicious!]
I will divide them
Quote: אֲחַלְּקֵ֣ם (1)The last half of verse 7 specifies how Jacob is asking God to curse Simeon and Levi. Alternate translation: [I ask God to disperse them and their descendants] or [May he cause them and their descendants to be spread out]
in Jacob
Quote: בְּיַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
In this context, the name Jacob refers to his family and especially his descendants. Alternate translation: [among the family of Jacob]
and I will scatter them
Quote: וַאֲפִיצֵ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
The clauses “I will divide …” and “I will scatter …” form a parallelism that emphasizes the way Jacob is asking God to curse Simeon and Levi. If possible, it is best to keep both parts of a parallelism in your translation. Alternate translation: [Yes, I will]
and I will scatter them
Quote: וַאֲפִיצֵ֖ם (1)Consider again how you translated scatter in the book of Genesis. See Gen 10:18, 32; 11:4, 8-9; 49:7. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. If the pronoun “you” is used here in your translation, it should be plural. Alternate translation: [disperse you] or [cause them to be spread out]
in Israel
Quote: בְּיִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Jacob’s prophecy in verse 7 came true many years later: the tribe of Simeon was absorbed by the tribe of Judah (Joshua 19:1), and the tribe of Levi never had its own territory, but rather lived in cities scattered throughout the other tribes of Israel (Joshua 21:1-42). You could put this information in a footnote. Alternate translation: [throughout the descendants of Israel]
Genesis 49:8
Judah, {it is} you your brothers will praise
Quote: יְהוּדָ֗ה אַתָּה֙ יוֹד֣וּךָ אַחֶ֔יךָ (1)In the Hebrew text, the pronoun you is emphatic, and it has an emphatic position in the sentence. Consider what is the best way to communicate that emphasis in your language. Alternate translation: [Judah, you are the one whom your brothers will praise] or [Judah, you and your descendants will be highly praised by your brothers and their descendants]
Your hand {will be} on the neck of
Quote: יָדְךָ֖ בְּעֹ֣רֶף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Consider what is the best way to translate this Hebrew idiom in your language. Also, if your translation includes Judah’s descendants in the previous sentence, make sure that the pronouns your and you are plural in this sentence. Alternate translation: [You will be victorious over] or [You will defeat]
those opposing you
Quote: אֹיְבֶ֑יךָ (1)Alternate translation: [those who are against you] or [your adversaries]
The sons of your father
Quote: בְּנֵ֥י אָבִֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Make sure that your translation of your father refers to Jacob. Alternate translation: [Your brothers]
will bow down to you
Quote: יִשְׁתַּחֲוּ֥וּ לְךָ֖ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
Consider again how you translated bow down in the book of Genesis. See Gen 18:2; 19:1; 22:5; 23:7, 12; 24:26, 48, 52; 27:29; 33:3, 6-7; 37:7, 9-10; 42:6; 43:26, 28; 47:31; 48:12; 49:8. Also see how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 17:3, 17. Alternate translation: [and their descendants will bow themselves before you and your descendants in submission]
Genesis 49:9
Judah {is} the cub of a lion. From the prey, my son, you have gone up
Quote: גּ֤וּר אַרְיֵה֙ יְהוּדָ֔ה מִטֶּ֖רֶף בְּנִ֣י עָלִ֑יתָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor
Alternate translation: [Judah, you, my son, are like a powerful young lion that kills its prey and returns to its den]
He crouches {and} lies down like a lion
Quote: כָּרַ֨ע רָבַ֧ץ כְּאַרְיֵ֛ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
Here in verse 9 Jacob switches to using third person references (“he, his, him”) for Judah. For some languages it is better to use second person references (“you, your”) throughout verses 8-12. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [You are like a lion that stretches out and lies down to rest after eating]
And like a lioness, who will rouse him
Quote: וּכְלָבִ֖יא מִ֥י יְקִימֶֽנּוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This sentence forms a parallelism with the previous sentence to emphasize Judah’s authority. Also, Jacob uses a rhetorical question here to emphasize the respect that people will have for Judah. Some languages must use a statement here instead. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [Yes, you are like a lion that no one dares to awaken] or [No one dares to disrespect that lion]
Genesis 49:10
The scepter will not depart from Judah
Quote: לֹֽא־יָס֥וּר שֵׁ֨בֶט֙ מִֽיהוּדָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
A scepter, or a king’s staff, is a special, decorated rod that a king holds to symbolize his authority to rule the people who are under him. Alternate translation: [Judah, the authority to rule will always belong to you and your descendants]
nor the staff from between his feet
Quote: וּמְחֹקֵ֖ק מִבֵּ֣ין רַגְלָ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
This phrase forms a parallelism with the previous clause and emphasizes the authority that Judah and his descendants will have.
until Shiloh comes
Quote: עַ֚ד כִּֽי־יָבֹ֣א שִׁיל֔וֹ (1)Jacob is probably prophesying here about the coming of the Messiah/Christ. This fits with the fact that Jesus was a descendant of the tribe of Judah and is now ruling as the true King over heaven and earth. You could put some of that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: [until the highest king arrives] or [until the One whom the scepter belongs to comes]
and to him {belongs} the obedience of the peoples
Quote: וְל֖וֹ יִקְּהַ֥ת עַמִּֽים (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [and the nations of the earth obey him] or [and all people obey him] or [All people will obey him]
Genesis 49:11
He will tether
Quote: אֹסְרִ֤י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
In verse 11, the pronouns “he” and his refer to Judah and his descendants. To make that clear, you could make that explicit here and then use plural pronouns “they” and “their” throughout the verse. Or if you are using the second person throughout this section, you could say, “You and your descendants …” and use plural pronouns “you” and “your” after that. Alternate translation: [Judah and his descendants]
He will tether his donkey to the {grape}vine
Quote: אֹסְרִ֤י לַגֶּ֨פֶן֙ עִיר֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
In Jacob’s culture grapevines were valuable plants, so unless a person was very rich, he would never tether a donkey to his grapevines because it would eat the fruit and the vines. If necessary, you could make some of that information explicit in your translation. Alternate translation: [will be so wealthy that they will tie their donkeys to your grapevines to eat the valuable fruit] or [let your donkeys eat your valuable grapevines]
and the son of his donkey to the choice branch
Quote: וְלַשֹּׂרֵקָ֖ה בְּנִ֣י אֲתֹנ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
This clause forms a parallelism with the previous one to emphasize how wealthy Judah and his descendants will be.
He will wash his garment{s} in wine and his robe{s} in the blood of grapes
Quote: כִּבֵּ֤ס בַּיַּ֨יִן֙ לְבֻשׁ֔וֹ וּבְדַם־עֲנָבִ֖ים סוּתֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
This sentence is another parallelism that emphasizes how wealthy Judah and his descendants will be. The phrase blood of grapes is an idiom that refers to red wine made from the juice of grapes. Alternate translation: [They will still have so much wine from other vines that you could even use the wine like water to wash your robes and other clothes]
Genesis 49:12
His} eyes
Quote: עֵינַ֖יִם (1)Alternate translation: [Their eyes] or [You will be so blessed that your eyes]
will be} brilliant from wine
Quote: חַכְלִילִ֥י & מִיָּ֑יִן (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “will be bright from drinking abundant wine,” or (2) “will be darker than wine,” In both interpretations the emphasis is that Judah’s descendants will be blessed with an abundance of the best foods, including wine and milk, which are examples of the most valuable foods that were produced in the land.
and {his} teeth {will be} white from milk
Quote: וּלְבֶן־שִׁנַּ֖יִם מֵחָלָֽב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “and their/your teeth will be white from drinking abundant milk.” or (2) “and their/your teeth will be whiter than milk.” Make sure that the way you translate this phrase fits with the interpretation you used for the first part of this verse. For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of some of these phrases and say, “They/You will be so blessed/wealthy that they/you will have plenty of the best foods, including abundant wine and milk.” Do what is best in your language.
Genesis 49:13
Zebulun
Quote: זְבוּלֻ֕ן (1)Throughout this chapter, decide whether it is best in your language to use third person or second person when Jacob refers to each of his sons (and their descendants). Alternate translation: [As for Zebulun, he and his descendants]
will settle at the shore of the sea
Quote: לְח֥וֹף יַמִּ֖ים יִשְׁכֹּ֑ן (1)Alternate translation: [will live at the coast]
and he {will live} at the shore of ships
Quote: וְהוּא֙ לְח֣וֹף אֳנִיּ֔וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
This clause forms a parallelism with the previous clause to emphasize where Zebulun and his descendants will live. Alternate translation: [yes, they will settle at a harbor for ships] or [where there will be a safe place for ships to load and unload their cargo]
and his border {will reach
Quote: וְיַרְכָת֖וֹ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [Their territory will extend]
to Sidon
Quote: עַל־צִידֹֽן (1)Alternate translation: [all the way up to the city of Sidon]
Genesis 49:14
Issachar
Quote: יִשָּׂשכָ֖ר (1)Alternate translation: [As for Issachar, he and his descendants]
is} a strong donkey
Quote: חֲמֹ֣ר גָּ֑רֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor
Consider again how you translated donkey in the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:16; 16:12; 22:3, 5, 6; 24:35; 30:43; 32:5, 15; 34:28; 36:24; 42:26-27; 43:18, 24; 44:3, 13; 45:23; 47:17; 49:14. Alternate translation: [will be like a strong donkey]
lying down
Quote: רֹבֵ֖ץ (1)Alternate translation: [lying down resting]
between two saddlebags
Quote: בֵּ֥ין הַֽמִּשְׁפְּתָֽיִם (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “between two saddlebags/loads.” or (2) “between the two parts of a sheep pen.” Both interpretations imply that the donkey is lying down to rest after it worked hard.
Genesis 49:15
And he sees {his} resting place that {it is} good and the land that it is pleasant
Quote: וַיַּ֤רְא מְנֻחָה֙ כִּ֣י ט֔וֹב וְאֶת־הָאָ֖רֶץ כִּ֣י נָעֵ֑מָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
Alternate translation: [They will have a good place to live, in a enjoyable land]
Then he will bend his shoulder
Quote: וַיֵּ֤ט שִׁכְמוֹ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Consider what is the best way to translate this Hebrew idiom in your language. Alternate translation: [However, you will also have to exert yourselves] or [But you will work hard]
to bear {the loads
Quote: לִסְבֹּ֔ל (1)Alternate translation: [to carry heavy loads]
and he will be a forced labor servant
Quote: וַיְהִ֖י לְמַס־עֹבֵֽד (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [In fact, you will be forced to be slaves] or [They will have to work very hard for others as slaves] or [People will force you to be their slaves]
Genesis 49:16
Dan
Quote: דָּ֖ן (1)Alternate translation: [As for Dan, he and his descendants]
will judge his people
Quote: יָדִ֣ין עַמּ֑וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [will govern their own people group]
as one of the tribes of Israel
Quote: כְּאַחַ֖ד שִׁבְטֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Alternate translation: [just as the other tribes of Israel govern their own people]
Genesis 49:17
Dan
Quote: דָן֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Be consistent with your choice of third person or second person (singular or plural) references to Dan (and his descendants) throughout verses 16 and 17. Alternate translation: [They]
will be a snake beside the road, a viper beside the path
Quote: יְהִי & נָחָ֣שׁ עֲלֵי־דֶ֔רֶךְ שְׁפִיפֹ֖ן עֲלֵי־אֹ֑רַח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor
Alternate translation: [will be cunning like a poisonous snake lying beside a road]
and its rider falls off backward
Quote: וַיִּפֹּ֥ל רֹכְב֖וֹ אָחֽוֹר (1)Alternate translation: [so that it rears up and the rider falls off backward to the ground] or [… is thrown off the horse and defeated]
Genesis 49:18
I am waiting for your salvation, Yahweh
Quote: לִֽישׁוּעָתְךָ֖ קִוִּ֥יתִי יְהוָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Make sure it is clear in your translation that Jacob is talking to God in verse 18, not Dan any more.
Genesis 49:19
raider{s} will attack him
Quote: גְּד֣וּד יְגוּדֶ֑נּוּ (1)Alternate translation: [a group of robbers will attack him and his descendants] or [you and your descendants will be attacked by enemies]
but he will attack {their} heel{s
Quote: וְה֖וּא יָגֻ֥ד עָקֵֽב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Make sure it is clear in your translation who is being referred to at each point in this sentence. Alternate translation: [but they will hunt them down and defeat them]
Genesis 49:20
From Asher, his bread {will be} fat
Quote: מֵאָשֵׁ֖ר שְׁמֵנָ֣ה לַחְמ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here the word bread refers to food in general and fat refers to the best kinds of food. Alternate translation: [Asher and his descendants will produce rich food] or [Asher, you and your descendants will be wealthy and produce the finest food]
and he will provide king’s delicacies
Quote: וְה֥וּא יִתֵּ֖ן מַֽעֲדַנֵּי־מֶֽלֶךְ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, the word delicacies refers to special, delicious foods that only rich people can afford to eat. Alternate translation: [He will even supply food that is fancy enough for a king] or [In fact, they will supply fine foods that are fit for kings to eat]
Genesis 49:21
Naphtali
Quote: נַפְתָּלִ֖י (1)Alternate translation: [As for Naphtali, he and his descendants]
is} a doe
Quote: אַיָּלָ֣ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This metaphor pictures a deer that swiftly runs away after being released from captivity. Alternate translation: [will be swift like a doe] or [will be warriors who are swift like a deer]
that is let loose
Quote: שְׁלֻחָ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [that is set free] or [that has been released to run freely] or [that is free to go wherever it wants]
He gives words of beauty
Quote: הַנֹּתֵ֖ן אִמְרֵי־שָֽׁפֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “He/They/You will also speak eloquently.” or “They/You will also be gifted/excellent speakers/negotiators.” or (2) “and that bears/has beautiful/healthy fawns.” or “He/They/You will have beautiful children.” If you made Naphtali’s descendants explicit at the beginning of this verse, make sure you use a plural pronoun (“they” or “you”) here.
Genesis 49:22
Joseph {is
Quote: יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Alternate translation: [As for Joseph, he and his descendants]
the son of a fruit-bearing {vine}, the son of a fruit-bearing {vine
Quote: בֵּ֤ן פֹּרָת֙ & בֵּ֥ן פֹּרָ֖ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor
The same phrase is repeated here to emphasize how prosperous and productive Joseph (and his descendants) will be. Instead of saying the same phrase twice, many translations combine the two phrases and form one clause that communicates the emphasis in a different way. Do what is accurate and natural in your language. Alternate translation: [will be like the branch of a fruitful tree, yes, like a fruitful tree] or [will be very successful and flourish like a fruitful branch of a vine] or [will be very fruitful like the fruit on a fruitful vine]
beside a spring
Quote: עֲלֵי־עָ֑יִן (1)Alternate translation: [that is planted next to a spring of water]
whose} daughters go up
Quote: בָּנ֕וֹת צָעֲדָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor
This phrase probably continues the metaphor of the fruitful vine that symbolizes how prosperous and numerous Joseph and his descendants will be. Consider what is the best way to translate this metaphor in your language. Alternate translation: [with branches extending] or [with branches full of fruit that extend]
over a wall
Quote: עֲלֵי־שֽׁוּר (1)Alternate translation: [over a surrounding wall]
Genesis 49:23
And … will attack him
Quote: וַֽיְמָרֲרֻ֖הוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Be consistent with your choice of third person or second person (singular or plural) references to Joseph (and his descendants) throughout verses 22-26. Alternate translation: [Skillful bowmen will fiercely attack them and their descendants] or [Enemy soldiers will …] or [Your enemies will …]
and shoot
Quote: וָרֹ֑בּוּ (1)Alternate translation: [and shoot arrows at them]
and harass him
Quote: וַֽיִּשְׂטְמֻ֖הוּ (1)Alternate translation: [and treat them hatefully] or [and try to destroy them]
Genesis 49:24
But his bow will remain in strength
Quote: וַתֵּ֤שֶׁב בְּאֵיתָן֙ קַשְׁתּ֔וֹ (1)Make sure that the way you translate his in this verse fits with whether you use second or third person (singular or plural) to refer to Joseph (and his descendants) in verses 22-26. Alternate translation: [But as they fight back, you will hold your bows steady] or [… you will use your bows well]
and the arms of his hands will be made limber
Quote: וַיָּפֹ֖זּוּ זְרֹעֵ֣י יָדָ֑יו (1)Alternate translation: [and their powerful arms will stay agile]
by the hands of the Mighty {One} of Jacob
Quote: מִידֵי֙ אֲבִ֣יר יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Consider what is the best way to translate this idiom in your language. Alternate translation: [because of the power]
the Mighty {One} of Jacob
Quote: אֲבִ֣יר יַעֲקֹ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages, it is clearer or more natural to change the order of the phrases in this verse and say, “But the Mighty/Powerful God whom I worship/serve will keep you strong and help you use your bows/weapons well/effectively as you fight back.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [of the Powerful God whom I worship] or [that the Powerful God of Jacob gives you]
by the name of the Shepherd
Quote: מִשָּׁ֥ם רֹעֶ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
A shepherd takes care of his sheep and provides for all of their needs. In the same way God takes care of his people and provides for all of their needs. See Psalm 23 which also talks about God as our Shepherd. You could put some of that information in a footnote. Alternate translation: [He takes care of his people the way that a shepherd takes care of his sheep]
the Rock of Israel
Quote: אֶ֥בֶן יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
In verses 24 and 25, several different titles are used to refer to Yahweh, the only true God. Make sure that your translation of these verses does not sound like there is more than one God. Also make sure it is clear in your translation or in a footnote that Jacob is referring to himself in this verse as Jacob and Israel.
Genesis 49:25
by the God of
Quote: מֵאֵ֨ל (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [That power is from]
by the God of your father, and he will help you
Quote: מֵאֵ֨ל אָבִ֜יךָ וְיַעְזְרֶ֗ךָּ (1)Alternate translation: [the God who has always taken care of me, your father. He will also help you and your descendants]
and with the Almighty, and he will bless you
Quote: וְאֵ֤ת שַׁדַּי֙ וִיבָ֣רְכֶ֔ךָּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of some of the clauses in the first half of this verse and say, “That strength/power comes from the God who has always taken care of me, your father. He is the all-powerful God who will help you and your descendants and bless you all.” Do what is best in your language. Also, compare how you translated “God Almighty” in Gen 48:3. Alternate translation: [He is the all-powerful God, who will bless you all]
with} blessings of the heavens above
Quote: בִּרְכֹ֤ת שָׁמַ֨יִם֙ מֵעָ֔ל (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [He will provide you with rain from the sky]
blessings of the deep that lies below
Quote: בִּרְכֹ֥ת תְּה֖וֹם רֹבֶ֣צֶת תָּ֑חַת (1)This phrase refers to water that comes from under the ground and supplies springs, wells, and rivers. Alternate translation: [and bless you with water from under the ground]
blessings of breasts and womb
Quote: בִּרְכֹ֥ת שָׁדַ֖יִם וָרָֽחַם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Consider what is the best way to translate this metonymy in your language. Also consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [May your wives bear many children and your animals bear many young]
Genesis 49:26
The blessings of your father have surpassed the blessings of my ancestors
Quote: בִּרְכֹ֣ת אָבִ֗יךָ גָּֽבְרוּ֙ עַל־בִּרְכֹ֣ת הוֹרַ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants
The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “God has blessed me your father more than he blessed my ancestors,” or (2) “The blessings your father is blessing you with are greater than the blessings my ancestors blessed me with,” or (3) “The blessings of your father have surpassed the blessings/riches of the ancient mountains,” The third interpretation is based on the Greek Septuagint, which interprets the Hebrew word for ancestors as “mountains” (which has a similar spelling in Hebrew).
even to the bounties of
Quote: עַֽד־תַּאֲוַ֖ת (1)The meaning of the Hebrew text is uncertain here. It could mean: (1) “He has blessed me with bounties/riches that are greater than the bounties/riches that come from” or (2) “My blessings are so great that they extend to the utmost/farthest boundaries/limits of.” Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
the eternal hills
Quote: גִּבְעֹ֣ת עוֹלָ֑ם (1)Alternate translation: [the everlasting mountains]
May they rest on the head of Joseph
Quote: תִּֽהְיֶ֨ין֙ לְרֹ֣אשׁ יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The words head and top of the head refer to Joseph and are connected with the custom of laying hands on the head of the person being blessed. Alternate translation: [May God also give those blessings to you Joseph, as] or [I pray that God will abundantly bless you too, Joseph, since you are]
the one consecrated from {among
Quote: נְזִ֥יר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
Consider what is the best way to translate this passive phrase in your language. Alternate translation: [the one who has been set apart by God as ruler] or [the one who is honored by God] or [the one whom he chose to set apart and honor]
his brothers
Quote: אֶחָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Make sure your choice of his or your here fits with how you translated the beginning of this sentence. Alternate translation: [over his brothers]
Genesis 49:27
Benjamin
Quote: בִּנְיָמִין֙ (1)Consider again whether you make “and … descendants” explicit for each of Jacob’s sons in this chapter or whether you leave it implied and possibly put that information in a footnote. See verses 1, 7-8, 11, 13-14, 16, 19-23, 27. Alternate translation: [As for Benjamin, he and his descendants] or [Benjamin, you and your descendants]
is} a ravenous wolf
Quote: זְאֵ֣ב יִטְרָ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor
Wolves are a type of large, fierce, wild dog that lives and hunts together in groups. If wolves are unknown in your language area, you could say “wild dog” or “a pack of wild dogs.” Consider again how you translated the metaphors and similes that Jacob uses in verses 4, 9-11, 14, 17, 21-22, 24, 27. Alternate translation: [is like a fierce wolf] or [will be fierce warriors like hungry wolves]
In the morning it devours {its} prey, and in the evening it divides the plunder
Quote: בַּבֹּ֖קֶר יֹ֣אכַל עַ֑ד וְלָעֶ֖רֶב יְחַלֵּ֥ק שָׁלָֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Consider again whether to use second person or third person (singular or plural) in verses 3-27, and make sure your translation of the pronouns is clear and natural. To do that, it is helpful to read your translation of this section aloud. Alternate translation: [You defeat their enemies in the morning and share the plunder of battle with your warriors in the evening]
Genesis 49:28
All those {are} the twelve tribes of Israel
Quote: כָּל־אֵ֛לֶּה שִׁבְטֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל שְׁנֵ֣ים עָשָׂ֑ר (1)This clause refers back to Jacob’s sons who are mentioned in verses 1-27. Alternate translation: [Those twelve sons are the forefathers of the twelve tribes that came from Israel]
and that {is} what their father said to them
Quote: וְ֠זֹאת אֲשֶׁר־דִּבֶּ֨ר לָהֶ֤ם אֲבִיהֶם֙ (1)Alternate translation: [and those were the words that their father spoke to them]
And he blessed
Quote: וַיְבָ֣רֶךְ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [when he blessed]
them, each one
Quote: אוֹתָ֔ם אִ֛ישׁ אֲשֶׁ֥ר (1)Alternate translation: [each of them] or [each son]
according to his blessing he blessed them
Quote: כְּבִרְכָת֖וֹ בֵּרַ֥ךְ אֹתָֽם (1)Alternate translation: [with blessings that were right for them and their descendants] or [in a way that was fitting for them and their descendants]
Genesis 49:29
Then he commanded them
Quote: וַיְצַ֣ו אוֹתָ֗ם (1)Alternate translation: [After that, he instructed his sons]
and said to them
Quote: וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֲלֵהֶם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Make sure that your translation of “commanded … and said …” refers to a single action, not two different actions.
I am being gathered to
Quote: אֲנִי֙ נֶאֱסָ֣ף אֶל (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: [I will soon die and be taken by God to be with] or [God will soon take my spirit to be with]
my people
Quote: עַמִּ֔י (1)Alternate translation: [my relatives who have already died] or [my relatives who have gone before me] or [my deceased ancestors]
Bury me
Quote: קִבְר֥וּ אֹתִ֖י (1)Make sure that your translation of this phrase does not mean or imply that Jacob was asking to be buried while he was still physically alive. Alternate translation: [Please bury my body] or [When that happens, please bury me]
with my fathers
Quote: אֶל־אֲבֹתָ֑י (1)Alternate translation: [with the bodies of my ancestors] or [next to them]
in the cave that {is} in the field of Ephron the Hittite
Quote: אֶל־הַ֨מְּעָרָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר בִּשְׂדֵ֖ה עֶפְר֥וֹן הַֽחִתִּֽי (1)Make sure your translation of this clause does not sound like Ephron still owned that property. Alternate translation: [inside the cave that is located in the field that Ephron the Hittite used to own] or [… the field that used to belong to Ephron the Hittite]
Genesis 49:30
in the cave that {is} in the field of Machpelah
Quote: בַּמְּעָרָ֞ה אֲשֶׁ֨ר בִּשְׂדֵ֧ה הַמַּכְפֵּלָ֛ה (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. See how you translated Machpelah in Gen 23:9.
that {is} in front of Mamre
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר עַל־פְּנֵי־מַמְרֵ֖א (1)Alternate translation: [that is east of the city of Mamre]
as property {for} a burial place
Quote: לַאֲחֻזַּת־קָֽבֶר (1)Alternate translation: [to use for a family burial site] or [in order to possess a place to bury his dead relatives]
Genesis 49:31
There they buried Abraham and Sarah his wife
Quote: שָׁ֣מָּה קָֽבְר֞וּ אֶת־אַבְרָהָ֗ם וְאֵת֙ שָׂרָ֣ה אִשְׁתּ֔וֹ (1)The pronoun they is general in this verse and does not specify who buried these people. Many languages have a similar general word. Other languages make this a passive clause without specifying the subject. Do what is best in your language.
and there
Quote: וְשָׁ֥מָּה (1)Alternate translation: [That is also where]
Genesis 49:32
The purchase of the field and the cave that {is} in it {was
Quote: מִקְנֵ֧ה הַשָּׂדֶ֛ה וְהַמְּעָרָ֥ה אֲשֶׁר־בּ֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
In verse 32, Jacob repeats some of what he said in verses 29-30. Make sure your translation does not sound like it was the first time he said this. Also consider what is the best way to translate this passive clause in your language. Alternate translation: [That field and cave were bought by Abraham]
from the sons of Heth
Quote: מֵאֵ֥ת בְּנֵי־חֵֽת (1)Compare how you translated “Hittite” in verse 29, which refers to the same people group as here. Alternate translation: [from the descendants of Heth] or [from the Hittite people]
Genesis 49:33
and he drew his feet into the bed
Quote: וַיֶּאֱסֹ֥ף רַגְלָ֖יו אֶל־הַמִּטָּ֑ה (1)This clause means that Jacob lay back down after being in a sitting position on the side of his bed (Gen 48:2). Alternate translation: [he lay down and lifted his feet up into his bed]
and exhaled
Quote: וַיִּגְוַ֖ע (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. Also consider again how you translated the idiom exhaled in the book of Genesis. See Gen 6:17; 7:21; 25:8, 17; 35:29; 49:33. Alternate translation: [and breathed out his last breath] or [Then he took his final breath and died]
and was gathered to his people
Quote: וַיֵּאָ֥סֶף אֶל־עַמָּֽיו (1)Consider again how you translated this phrase in the book of Genesis. See Gen 25:8 (and note), 17; 35:29; 49:29, 33. Alternate translation: [and was taken by God to be with his deceased relatives]
Genesis 50
Genesis 50:1
Then Joseph fell on
Quote: וַיִּפֹּ֥ל יוֹסֵ֖ף עַל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Make sure that your translation of this phrase does not imply that Joseph fell down accidently. Rather he intentionally threw himself on his father to embrace him and express his love and grief for him. See how you translated a similar phrase in Gen 46:29. Alternate translation: [Immediately Joseph embraced his father in sorrow]
and he wept over him
Quote: וַיֵּ֥בְךְּ עָלָ֖יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it may be better to put this clause earlier and say, “Then Joseph cried in his sorrow/grief, and he hugged his father tightly and kissed him.” Do what is best in your language.
and kissed him
Quote: וַיִּשַּׁק־לֽוֹ (1)Consider again how you translated kissed in the book of Genesis. See Gen 27:26-27; 29:11, 13; 31:28, 55; 33:4; 45:15; 48:10; 50:1. Alternate translation: [and kissed him goodbye on the forehead]
Genesis 50:2
Then Joseph commanded
Quote: וַיְצַ֨ו יוֹסֵ֤ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Alternate translation: [Then he told]
his servants the physicians
Quote: אֶת־עֲבָדָיו֙ אֶת־הָרֹ֣פְאִ֔ים (1)Alternate translation: [his servants who were doctors] or [his physicians who served him]
to embalm his father
Quote: לַחֲנֹ֖ט אֶת־אָבִ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
The word embalm refers here to the special process that the Egyptians did to slow down the decaying process of a dead body in order to preserve it for burial.
Genesis 50:3
and they completed forty days for him
Quote: וַיִּמְלְאוּ־לוֹ֙ אַרְבָּעִ֣ים י֔וֹם (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [which took them forty days] or [The work took forty days]
for so they complete the days of embalmings
Quote: כִּ֛י כֵּ֥ן יִמְלְא֖וּ יְמֵ֣י הַחֲנֻטִ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [because that is the usual amount of time needed to embalm a body] or [which is how long it usually takes to embalm a body]
And the Egyptians wept for him seventy days
Quote: וַיִּבְכּ֥וּ אֹת֛וֹ מִצְרַ֖יִם שִׁבְעִ֥ים יֽוֹם (1)The seventy days of mourning included the forty days of embalming, so do not begin your translation of this sentence with a word like “Then.” Alternate translation: [The people in Egypt wept for him for seventy days] or [For seventy days the people of Egypt mourned for him]
Genesis 50:4
And the days of his mourning passed
Quote: וַיַּֽעַבְרוּ֙ יְמֵ֣י בְכִית֔וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [When those seventy days of mourning for him were over]
then Joseph spoke to the house of Pharaoh, saying
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֣ר יוֹסֵ֔ף אֶל־בֵּ֥ית פַּרְעֹ֖ה לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The phrase the house of Pharaoh refers to members of the royal court.
Please, if I have found favor in your eyes
Quote: אִם־נָ֨א מָצָ֤אתִי חֵן֙ בְּעֵ֣ינֵיכֶ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [Please do this kindness for me:] or [Please show me kindness and do this:]
please speak in the ears of Pharaoh, saying
Quote: דַּבְּרוּ־נָ֕א בְּאָזְנֵ֥י פַרְעֹ֖ה לֵאמֹֽר (1)Alternate translation: [please speak to King Pharaoh for me and say to him]
Genesis 50:5
My father made me swear, saying, “Behold, I am dying. In my grave that I dug for myself in the land of Canaan, there you must bury me
Quote: אָבִ֞י הִשְׁבִּיעַ֣נִי לֵאמֹ֗ר הִנֵּ֣ה אָנֹכִי֮ מֵת֒ בְּקִבְרִ֗י אֲשֶׁ֨ר כָּרִ֤יתִי לִי֙ בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנַ֔עַן שָׁ֖מָּה תִּקְבְּרֵ֑נִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
For some languages it may be better to translate this embedded quote as an indirect quote and say, “that when my father was about to die, he had me swear/vow/promise to him that I would bury his body in the region of Canaan, in a grave/tomb that he had prepared for himself there.” Do what is best in your language.
So now, please let me go up {there} and bury my father
Quote: וְעַתָּ֗ה אֶֽעֱלֶה־נָּ֛א וְאֶקְבְּרָ֥ה אֶת־אָבִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Consider whether or not it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as an indirect quote. Also see how you translated go up in Gen 45:9.
then I will return
Quote: וְאָשֽׁוּבָה (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [After I have done that, I will return to Egypt]
Genesis 50:6
And Pharaoh said
Quote: וַיֹּ֖אמֶר פַּרְעֹ֑ה (1)Alternate translation: [Pharaoh sent back this reply to him]
Go up and bury your father just as he made you swear
Quote: עֲלֵ֛ה וּקְבֹ֥ר אֶת־אָבִ֖יךָ כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר הִשְׁבִּיעֶֽךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Consider whether it is better in your language to translate this sentence as a direct or indirect quote. Also see how you translated “go up” in verse 5.
Genesis 50:7
So Joseph went up
Quote: וַיַּ֥עַל יוֹסֵ֖ף (1)Joseph did not arrive in Canaan until later (verse 10). Alternate translation: [So Joseph started traveling to Canaan] or [So Joseph started the journey to Canaan] or [So Joseph left Egypt]
and with him went up all the servants of Pharaoh
Quote: וַיַּֽעֲל֨וּ אִתּ֜וֹ כָּל־עַבְדֵ֤י פַרְעֹה֙ (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Also, consider again how you translated Pharaoh in the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:15 (and note), 16-18, 20; 37:36; 39:1; 40:2, 11, 13, 14, 17, 19; 41:1, 4, 7-10, 14-17, 25, 28, 32-35, 37-39, 41-46, 55; 42:15-16; 44:18; 45:2, 8, 16-17, 21; 46:5, 31, 33-34; 47:1-5, 7-11, 14, 19-26; 50:4, 6-7. Also consider again how you translated servants and “officials” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 20:8; 40:2, 4, 7, 20; 41:10, 37-38; 45:16; 50:7. Alternate translation: [All the officials of Pharaoh went with him to escort him]
the elders of his house
Quote: זִקְנֵ֣י בֵית֔וֹ (1)The elders were probably older men who had served Pharaoh for a long time and held important positions in his court.
and all elders of the land of Egypt
Quote: וְכֹ֖ל זִקְנֵ֥י אֶֽרֶץ־מִצְרָֽיִם (1)Alternate translation: [and all the other senior men in the country of Egypt]
Genesis 50:8
and all of the house of Joseph
Quote: וְכֹל֙ בֵּ֣ית יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)The word house refers here to Joseph’s whole extended family, not just to the people in his own household. Also, consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here.
Only their little ones
Quote: רַ֗ק טַפָּם֙ (1)Alternate translation: [Only their children]
and their flock{s} and their herd{s
Quote: וְצֹאנָ֣ם וּבְקָרָ֔ם (1)Consider again how you translated “flocks and herds” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:16; 13:5; 20:14; 21:27; 24:35; 26:14; 32:8; 33:13; 34:28; 45:10; 46:32; 47:1, 17; 50:8. Also see how you translated “herd” in Gen 18:7-8, and how you translated “flock” in Gen 4:2, 4; 21:28; 27:9; 29:2-3, 6-10; 30:31, 32, 36, 38-43; 31:4, 8, 10, 12, 19, 38, 41, 43; 32:6; 37:2, 12, 14; 38:12, 13, 17; 46:34; 47:1, 17. It may be necessary to translate these terms in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [and their sheep and cattle]
they left
Quote: עָזְב֖וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
The children and animals were probably left with servants who took care of them during the funeral. For some languages it may be better to change the order of the phrases in this sentence and say, “They left behind only their children and their livestock in Goshen Province.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [they left behind] or [were left behind with servants]
in the land of Goshen
Quote: בְּאֶ֥רֶץ גֹּֽשֶׁן (1)Consider again how you translated “the land/region of Goshen” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 45:10; 46:28-29, 34; 47:1, 4, 6, 27; 50:8. Alternate translation: [in the region of Goshen]
Genesis 50:9
And with him went up both chariot{s} and horsemen
Quote: וַיַּ֣עַל עִמּ֔וֹ גַּם־רֶ֖כֶב גַּם־פָּרָשִׁ֑ים (1)Consider again how you translated “chariot” in Gen 41:43; 46:29; 50:9. Alternate translation: [There were men riding chariots and men riding horses who also went with Joseph] or [Many soldiers also escorted him including those who were riding chariots and those who were riding horses]
and the company was very great
Quote: וַיְהִ֥י הַֽמַּחֲנֶ֖ה כָּבֵ֥ד מְאֹֽד (1)Alternate translation: [so that the entire group of people was very large] or [so that there was a very large group of people traveling together]
Genesis 50:10
Then they came to
Quote: וַיָּבֹ֜אוּ עַד (1)Alternate translation: [Then when they came to] or [When they arrived at]
the threshing floor of Atad
Quote: גֹּ֣רֶן הָאָטָ֗ד (1)The Hebrew text is ambiguous here. It could mean: (1) “Atad’s threshing floor/place,” or “a place owned by a man named Atad where people separated grain from chaff,” or (2) “the threshing floor/place near the city/town of Atad,” or “Goren Ha-Atad,” or (3) “the grain/wheat threshing place that was surrounded by thornbushes,” The Hebrew word “atad” means “thorns,” but most Bible scholars think it refers here to the name of a person or city.
which {is} beyond the Jordan, and they lamented
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֙ בְּעֵ֣בֶר הַיַּרְדֵּ֔ן וַיִּ֨סְפְּדוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it may be better to put this clause earlier in this verse and say, “They traveled to the other side of the Jordan River and stopped at a grain threshing place owned by a man named Atad.” The location of Atad’s threshing floor is not certain. It was most likely on the west side of the Jordan River, since that is where the cave was located and that is where the Canaanites would have been most likely to observe Joseph’s family and the Egyptians mourning (verse 11). However, since its location is not certain, it is best to translate beyond the Jordan in a general way (like the Hebrew text is). Alternate translation: [which was located across the Jordan River]
and they lamented there
Quote: וַיִּ֨סְפְּדוּ־שָׁ֔ם (1)Alternate translation: [they began to mourn]
with} a very great and heavy lamentation
Quote: מִסְפֵּ֛ד גָּד֥וֹל וְכָבֵ֖ד מְאֹ֑ד (1)Alternate translation: [with a very loud and sorrowful lamentation]
And he did seven days {of} mourning for his father
Quote: וַיַּ֧עַשׂ לְאָבִ֛יו אֵ֖בֶל שִׁבְעַ֥ת יָמִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to combine the last two sentences in this verse and say, “There Joseph and the others mourned for his father very loudly and sorrowfully for seven days.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [For seven days Joseph and the others grieved the death of his father] or [and for seven days, Joseph led everyone in mourning the death of his father]
Genesis 50:11
And the inhabitants of the land, the Canaanites, saw the mourning at the threshing floor of Atad
Quote: וַיַּ֡רְא יוֹשֵׁב֩ הָאָ֨רֶץ הַֽכְּנַעֲנִ֜י אֶת־הָאֵ֗בֶל בְּגֹ֨רֶן֙ הָֽאָטָ֔ד (1)See how you translated threshing floor of Atad in verse 10.
This {is} a heavy mourning for the Egyptians
Quote: אֵֽבֶל־כָּבֵ֥ד זֶ֖ה לְמִצְרָ֑יִם (1)Consider again how you translated “Egyptian” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 12:14; 16:1, 3; 21:9; 25:12; 39:1, 2, 5; 41:55-56; 43:32; 45:2; 46:34; 47:15, 20; 50:3, 11. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [Wow! Those people of Egypt are mourning very sorrowfully for someone who died!]
For that {reason
Quote: עַל־כֵּ֞ן (1)Alternate translation: [That is the reason that]
they called its name
Quote: קָרָ֤א שְׁמָהּ֙ (1)Consider again how you translated “For that (reason) he/they called/call …” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 11:9; 16:14; 19:22; 21:31; 25:26, 30; 31:48; 33:17; 35:8; 38:29-30; 50:11. Alternate translation: [people call that place] or [the name of that place is] or [that place is called]
which {is} beyond
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֖ר בְּעֵ֥בֶר (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [which is located] or [The place is]
beyond the Jordan
Quote: בְּעֵ֥בֶר הַיַּרְדֵּֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to put this phrase earlier in this sentence and say, “That is why the name of that place on the other side of the Jordan River is Abel Mizraim, which means “Egyptians’ mourning place.”” Do what is best in your language. Also, be consistent here with how you translate this phrase in verse 10.
Genesis 50:12
he had commanded them
Quote: צִוָּֽם (1)Alternate translation: [he had told them to do:]
Genesis 50:13
And his sons carried him
Quote: וַיִּשְׂא֨וּ אֹת֤וֹ בָנָיו֙ (1)Alternate translation: [They brought his body]
to the land of Canaan
Quote: אַ֣רְצָה כְּנַ֔עַן (1)Consider again how you translated “the land/region of Canaan” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 11:31; 12:5; 13:12, 14; 16:3; 17:8; 23:2, 19; 31:18; 33:18; 35:6; 36:5-6; 37:1; 42:5, 7, 13, 29, 32; 44:8; 45:17, 25; 46:6, 12, 31; 47:1, 4, 13, 15, 27; 48:3, 7; 49:30; 50:5, 13. Also be consistent with how you spelled the name of the man named Canaan in 9:18, 22, 25-27; 10:6, 15, and compare that to how you translated “the Canaanites” in 10:18-19; 12:6; 13:7; 15:21; 24:3, 37; 28:1, 6, 8; 34:30; 36:2; 38:2; 46:10; 50:11.
and buried him in the cave of the field of Machpelah
Quote: וַיִּקְבְּר֣וּ אֹת֔וֹ בִּמְעָרַ֖ת שְׂדֵ֣ה הַמַּכְפֵּלָ֑ה (1)Consider again how you translated cave and the cave of the field of Machpelah in the book of Genesis. See Gen 19:30; 23:9 (and note), 11, 17, 19-20; 25:9; 49:29-30, 32; 50:13. Alternate translation: [and buried him in the cave that is in the field in the Machpelah area]
which Abraham had bought with the field as property for a burial place from Ephron the Hittite
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר קָנָה֩ אַבְרָהָ֨ם אֶת־הַשָּׂדֶ֜ה לַאֲחֻזַּת־קֶ֗בֶר מֵאֵ֛ת עֶפְרֹ֥ן הַחִתִּ֖י (1)Consider again how you translated property for a burial place in Gen 23:4, 9, 20, and how you translated Hittite or Ephron the Hittite in Gen 10:15; 15:20; 23:3, 5, 7, 10, 16,18; 25:9-10; 26:34; 27:46; 36:2; 49:29-30; 50:13. Be consistent with how you spelled Ephron in those verses and in Gen 23:8, 13-14, 16-17. Alternate translation: [It was the field and cave that Abraham had bought from Ephron the Hittite as a property to bury his dead relatives]
in front of Mamre
Quote: עַל־פְּנֵ֥י מַמְרֵֽא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it is clearer or more natural to put this phrase earlier in this sentence (after Machpelah) and say, “… the field of Machpelah near the city of Mamre. It was the field and cave that Abraham …” Do what is best in your language. Also, consider again how you translated in front of Mamre in the book of Genesis. See Gen 23:17, 19; 25:9; 49:30; 50:13. Be consistent with how you spelled Mamre in those verses and in Gen 13:18; 14:13, 24; 18:1.
Genesis 50:14
Then … Joseph returned to Egypt
Quote: וַיָּ֨שָׁב יוֹסֵ֤ף מִצְרַ֨יְמָה֙ (1)Alternate translation: [Joseph returned to the country of Egypt]
who had gone up with him
Quote: הָעֹלִ֥ים אִתּ֖וֹ (1)Alternate translation: [who had gone to Canaan with him]
to bury his father
Quote: לִקְבֹּ֣ר אֶת־אָבִ֑יו (1)Consider again how you translated bury in the book of Genesis. See Gen 15:15; 23:4, 6, 8, 11, 13, 15, 19; 25:9-10; 35:8, 19, 29; 47:29-30; 48:7; 49:29, 31; 50:5-7, 13-14. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context.
Genesis 50:15
What if Joseph hates us
Quote: ל֥וּ יִשְׂטְמֵ֖נוּ יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)Alternate translation: [What if Joseph is holding a grudge against us?]
Then he will surely repay us
Quote: וְהָשֵׁ֤ב יָשִׁיב֙ לָ֔נוּ (1)Consider whether or not it is better to begin a new sentence here in your language. Alternate translation: [Then certainly he will pay us back] or [then he will certainly take revenge on us and punish us severely]
for} all the evil that we did to him
Quote: אֵ֚ת כָּל־הָ֣רָעָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר גָּמַ֖לְנוּ אֹתֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
It may be clearer or more natural to put this clause before the previous clause and say, “If Joseph is angry at us for the terrible way that we treated him, he might punish us severely for what we did.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [for all the ways that we harmed him!] or [for the completely evil way that we treated him!] or [because we treated him so badly]
Genesis 50:16
Then they ordered {a messenger to go} to Joseph, saying
Quote: וַיְצַוּ֕וּ אֶל־יוֹסֵ֖ף לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Alternate translation: [So they sent a message to Joseph which said]
Your father commanded before his death, saying
Quote: אָבִ֣יךָ צִוָּ֔ה לִפְנֵ֥י מוֹת֖וֹ לֵאמֹֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
Consider again how you translated commanded in the book of Genesis. See Gen 2:16; 3:11, 17; 6:22; 7:5, 9, 16; 12:20; 18:19; 21:4; 26:5, 11; 27:8; 28:1,6; 32:4, 17, 19; 42:25, 44:1; 45:19; 47:11; 49:29, 33; 50:2, 12, 16. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Also, the pronoun “us” is exclusive here since it does not include Joseph. Alternate translation: [Our father commanded us before he died] or [Before your father died, he commanded us]
Genesis 50:17
This you must say to Joseph: “I beg {you
Quote: כֹּֽה־תֹאמְר֣וּ לְיוֹסֵ֗ף אָ֣נָּ֡א (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Consider whether or not it is better in your language to translate this embedded quote as a direct or indirect quote. See what you did for doubly-embedded quotes in Gen 32:4. Alternate translation: [to tell you that he asks you to] or [to ask you on his behalf to]
please forgive the crime of your brothers and their sin, because they did evil to you
Quote: שָׂ֣א נָ֠א פֶּ֣שַׁע אַחֶ֤יךָ וְחַטָּאתָם֙ כִּי־רָעָ֣ה גְמָל֔וּךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Consider again how you translated sin in Gen 4:7; 18:20; 31:36; 50:17, and consider again how you translated the synonym crime in Gen 31:36; 50:17. It may be necessary to translate these terms in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [please forgive your brothers for all the evil they did to you and for their offenses against you, even though what they did was very evil]
So now, please forgive the crime of the servants of your father’s God
Quote: וְעַתָּה֙ שָׂ֣א נָ֔א לְפֶ֥שַׁע עַבְדֵ֖י אֱלֹהֵ֣י אָבִ֑יךָ (1)Consider again how you translated “the God of” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 9:26; 24:12, 27, 42, 48; 26:24; 28:13; 31:5, 29, 42, 53; 32:9; 43:23; 46:1, 3; 49:24-25; 50:17. Alternate translation: [So then, as servants of God whom our father served, we beg you to forgive us for sinning against you]
And Joseph cried when they spoke to him
Quote: וַיֵּ֥בְךְּ יוֹסֵ֖ף בְּדַבְּרָ֥ם אֵלָֽיו (1)Alternate translation: [Joseph cried when he heard that message]
Genesis 50:18
and fell before him and said
Quote: וַֽיִּפְּל֖וּ לְפָנָ֑יו וַיֹּ֣אמְר֔וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
See how you translated “fell … before him” in Gen 44:14. Compare that to how you translated “bowed down to/before …” (See: 49:8). Alternate translation: [and threw themselves on the ground in front of him and said]
Behold us
Quote: הִנֶּ֥נּֽוּ (1)See how you translated a similar phrase (“Behold me”) in 22:1, 7. It may be necessary to translate this phrase in different ways, depending on the context.
we belong} to you as slaves
Quote: לְךָ֖ לַעֲבָדִֽים (1)If you use an exclamation point here in your translation, make sure it does mean that Joseph’s brothers were angry. Rather, they were worried and desperate. Alternate translation: [we will be your slaves] or [we will serve you as slaves]
Genesis 50:19
Do not be afraid
Quote: אַל־תִּירָ֑אוּ (1)Alternate translation: [You have nothing to fear]
For {am} I in place of God
Quote: כִּ֛י הֲתַ֥חַת אֱלֹהִ֖ים אָֽנִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Joseph uses a rhetorical question here to emphasize that he will not take God’s place and punish his brothers. Some languages must use a statement or exclamation here instead. Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [After all, I am not God! So I have no right to judge you]
Genesis 50:20
And {as for} you, you intended evil against me
Quote: וְאַתֶּ֕ם חֲשַׁבְתֶּ֥ם עָלַ֖י רָעָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
In the Hebrew text, the pronoun you is emphatic in form and position to emphasize Joseph’s brothers and contrast them with God. Consider what is the best way to translate that contrast in your language. Alternate translation: [Although you intentionally treated me very badly]
but} God intended it for good
Quote: אֱלֹהִים֙ חֲשָׁבָ֣הּ לְטֹבָ֔ה (1)Alternate translation: [God is using that evil to benefit us all] or [God planned that what you did would turn out to be good for me and everyone else]
in order to do as {he is doing} this day
Quote: לְמַ֗עַן עֲשֹׂ֛ה כַּיּ֥וֹם הַזֶּ֖ה (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [to accomplish what he is doing these days]
to save many people
Quote: לְהַחֲיֹ֥ת עַם־רָֽב (1)Consider again how you translated “save (lives)” or “keep alive” in the book of Genesis. See Gen 7:3; 12:12; 19:19; 45:7; 47:25; 50:20. Alternate translation: [to save the lives of many people] or [to keep many people alive] or [keeping many people from dying]
Genesis 50:21
So now
Quote: וְעַתָּה֙ (1)Alternate translation: [So again I tell you]
do not be afraid
Quote: אַל־תִּירָ֔אוּ (1)Consider again how you translated do not be afraid in the book of Genesis. See Gen 15:1; 21:17; 26:24; 35:17; 43:23; 46:3; 50:19, 21. Alternate translation: [you have nothing to fear]
I will support you and your little ones
Quote: אָנֹכִ֛י אֲכַלְכֵּ֥ל אֶתְכֶ֖ם וְאֶֽת־טַפְּכֶ֑ם (1)In the Hebrew text here, I is an emphatic pronoun. Consider what is the best way to translate that in your language. Also, consider again how you translated little ones in the book of Genesis. See Gen 34:29; 43:8; 45:19; 46:5; 47:12, 24; 50:8, 21. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [I myself will take care of you and your children]
So he comforted them
Quote: וַיְנַחֵ֣ם אוֹתָ֔ם (1)Consider again how you translated comforted in the book of Genesis. See Gen 24:67; 27:42; 37:35; 38:12; 50:21. It may be necessary to translate this term in different ways, depending on the context. Alternate translation: [In that way, Joseph consoled them that he had forgiven them]
and he spoke to their heart{s
Quote: וַיְדַבֵּ֖ר עַל־לִבָּֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The phrase spoke to their hearts is an idiom that means Joseph said things to comfort and encourage his brothers. Consider whether or not your language has an idiom with the same meaning that would work well here. Alternate translation: [and he also said other things to comfort them]
Genesis 50:22
Then Joseph stayed
Quote: וַיֵּ֤שֶׁב יוֹסֵף֙ (1)Alternate translation: [Joseph remained] or [Joseph continued to stay]
in Egypt
Quote: בְּמִצְרַ֔יִם (1)Alternate translation: [in the land of Egypt]
And Joseph lived 110 years
Quote: וַיְחִ֣י יוֹסֵ֔ף מֵאָ֥ה וָעֶ֖שֶׂר שָׁנִֽים (1)Consider whether or not it is better in your language to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [He lived to be 110 years old]
Genesis 50:23
And Joseph saw
Quote: וַיַּ֤רְא יוֹסֵף֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Alternate translation: [So he was able to see] or [He lived long enough to know]
were born on the knees of Joseph
Quote: יֻלְּד֖וּ עַל־בִּרְכֵּ֥י יוֹסֵֽף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
For some languages it is better to change the order of the phrases in this sentence and say, “He also lived to see his son Manasseh’s son Machir grow up, as well as Machir’s children.” or “He also lived to see the children of his grandson Machir grow up, who was Manasseh’s son.” Do what is best in your language. Also, the phrase “born on Joseph’s knees” is an idiom that means Joseph recognized Makir’s children as his descendants and that they grew up during his lifetime and spent time with him.
Genesis 50:24
I am dying
Quote: אָנֹכִ֖י מֵ֑ת (1)Consider again how you translated I am dying in Gen 35:18; 48:21; 50:5, 24.
and God will surely visit you
Quote: וֵֽאלֹהִ֞ים פָּקֹ֧ד יִפְקֹ֣ד אֶתְכֶ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The word visit is used here as an idiom that refers to God helping his people in a powerful way. See how you translated this idiom in Gen 21:1, where it has a slightly different meaning. Alternate translation: [but God will certainly help you]
and take you up from this land
Quote: וְהֶעֱלָ֤ה אֶתְכֶם֙ מִן־הָאָ֣רֶץ הַזֹּ֔את (1)Alternate translation: [and lead you and your descendants from this land]
to the land that he swore
Quote: אֶל־הָאָ֕רֶץ אֲשֶׁ֥ר נִשְׁבַּ֛ע (1)Alternate translation: [to the land that he swore with an vow]
Genesis 50:25
Then Joseph made the sons of Israel swear {an oath}, saying
Quote: וַיַּשְׁבַּ֣ע יוֹסֵ֔ף אֶת־בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל לֵאמֹ֑ר (1)Consider again how you translated swear in the book of Genesis. See Gen 21:23 (and note), 24, 31; 22:16; 24:3, 7, 9, 37; 25:33; 26:3, 31; 31:53; 47:31; 50:5-6, 24-25. Alternate translation: [Then Joseph told his brothers and the rest of the descendants of Israel to promise with an oath that they would do something for him. He said]
Surely God will visit you
Quote: פָּקֹ֨ד יִפְקֹ֤ד אֱלֹהִים֙ אֶתְכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated visit you in verse 24. Alternate translation: [Yes, God will definitely help you, and when he does] or [When God helps you that way]
and you must take my bones up from this {place
Quote: וְהַעֲלִתֶ֥ם אֶת־עַצְמֹתַ֖י מִזֶּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
For some languages it may be clearer or more natural to change the order of clauses in this verse and say, “When God does that, you must take my body back to Canaan with you and bury it there.’ Then Joseph made/had his brothers and the rest of the descendants of Israel swear/promise with an oaththat they would do that.” Do what is best in your language. Alternate translation: [you must take my bones back to Canaan with you and bury it there]
Genesis 50:26
Then Joseph died, a son of 110 years
Quote: וַיָּ֣מָת יוֹסֵ֔ף בֶּן־מֵאָ֥ה וָעֶ֖שֶׂר שָׁנִ֑ים (1)Alternate translation: [So Joseph died when he was 110 years old]
Then they embalmed him
Quote: וַיַּחַנְט֣וּ אֹת֔וֹ (1)See how you translated embalmed in verses 2-3, and how you translated “physicians/doctors” in verse 2. Alternate translation: [And his morticians preserved his body for burial]
and he was put
Quote: וַיִּ֥ישֶׂם (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: [and they put him] or [and put his body]
in a coffin
Quote: בָּאָר֖וֹן (1)Alternate translation: [in a burial chest]
in Egypt
Quote: בְּמִצְרָֽיִם (1)Alternate translation: [in the land of Egypt]