Joshua
Joshua front
Introduction to Joshua
Part 1: General Introduction
Outline of the book of Joshua
The conquest of the land of Canaan
a. Preparations * Yahweh encourages Joshua (1:1–9) * The eastern tribes send their armies (1:10–16) * Joshua sends spies to Jericho (2:1–24) * The Israelites cross the Jordan River (3:1–5:1) * The Israelites are circumcised and celebrate Passover (5:2–12)
b. Fight against kings in the center of the land * The fight against Jericho (5:13–6:27) * The fight against Ai (7:1–8:29)
c. The Israelites affirm the covenant at Mount Ebal (8:30–35)
d. Fight against the kings in the south of the land * The fight at Gibeon (9:1–10:27) * The fights against Makkedah, Libnah, Lachish, Eglon, Hebron, and Debir (10:28–43)
e. Fight against the kings in the north of the land * The fight at Merom (11:1–23)
The division of the land of Canaan
a. Summary of kings defeated and land remaining to conquer (12:1–13:7)
b. Assignment of land east of the Jordan River * Reuben, Gad, east Manasseh (13:8–32)
c. Assignment of land west of the Jordan River * Major tribes: Judah, Ephraim, west Manasseh (14:1–17:18) * Remaining tribes: Benjamin, Simeon, Zebulun, Issachar, Asher, Naphtali, Dan (18:1–19:51)
d. Cities of refuge and Levite cities (20:1–21:45)
Concluding episodes
- The eastern tribes return home and build an altar (22:1–34)
- The Israelites renew the covenant at Shechem (23:1–24:28)
- The death of Joshua (24:29–33)
What is the book of Joshua about?
The book of Joshua is about the Israelites entering and occupying the land of Canaan. Joshua was the leader who replaced Moses. He led the Israelites as they fought against the people groups that had been living in Canaan. This book then tells how the Israelites divided the land among the twelve tribes. (See: Promised Land)
Who wrote the book of Joshua?
The book does not tell us who wrote it. However, some verses in the book indicate that Joshua may have written at least part of it. Since ancient times the Jewish people have thought that Joshua recorded much of what is in this book.
How should the title of this book be translated?
This book has traditionally had the title “Joshua” because it tells how Joshua led the people of Israel. Translators may create a title such as “The Book About When Joshua Led Israel.” Translators should avoid a title that suggests that Joshua was the writer of the book, as it is not certain how much of it he may have written.
When should Joshua be translated?
The book of Joshua should probably be translated after Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. This is because the historical events described in the book of Joshua may be more difficult to understand without the information in those previous books.
Part 2: Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Book
The term “devoted”
The book uses a term in chapters 2, 5, 6, 7, 10, and 22 that the ULT translates as “devoted.” This was a specialized term that described the cultural practice of giving something over to Yahweh so that humans would no longer be able to use it. Depending on the context, the term can indicate either “destroy” or “preserve, but set apart.” The context must determine the meaning, so be sensitive to the context as you translate this term.
Part 3: Translation Issues in This Book
“struck,” “struck to the mouth of the sword,” “to the mouth of the sword”
The author often uses the expression “to the mouth of the sword” in connection with the term “devoted.” It was a common expression of his culture that referred to destroying something completely. When it appears, as it does about a dozen times in the book, it helps clarify what the term “devoted” means in a specific context. (See: Idiom)
In many places, the author says that soldiers “struck” an opposing army, city, king, or kings, as if they had only hit them. But he means that they attacked those opponents, and in some contexts the meaning is clearly that they killed them. (See: Metonymy)
In several contexts the author uses a longer form of this expression and says Joshua and his soldiers “struck them (or it) to the mouth of the sword.” This means that they completely destroyed a city, killing everyone who lived there. For example, speaking in 11:11 of what Joshua and his army did to the inhabitants of the city of Hazor, the author says that “they struck every soul that was in it (the city of Hazor) to the mouth of the sword.” (See: Idiom)
“And it happened”
The author often uses the phrase “And it happened” to introduce a new event in the story or a new development within an episode. To translate this phrase in its various occurrences, use a word, phrase, or other method in your language that is natural for introducing a new event or development. (See: Introduction of a New Event)
“to this day”
The author used this phrase to refer to the time when he was writing. The translator should be aware that “to this day” refers to a time that is now in the past. He must avoid giving the impression to his readers that “to this day” means “to the present day.” The translator might decide to use an equivalent phrase such as “at the time of this writing.”
“And now”
Characters in the story who are making a speech or delivering a message often use the phrase “And now” to introduce their main point. That point typically relates to what they want their listeners to do in response to what they have said so far. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. For example, you might say something such as “now here is my main point” or “now here is what I want you to do.”
“hear” and “listen”
The author and characters sometimes use the words “hear” and “listen” in a specialized sense to mean someone complying with what they have heard or listened to someone saying. When these words refer to a person, they have the sense of “obey.” When they apply to God, they indicate that God did what someone asked him to do, so you might say that God “answered” that person’s prayer. At other times, these words have a more literal sense of sound registering in the ears, that is, of a person taking in and understanding information. Be sensitive to the meaning of these words in the context as you translate them.
The name of tribe or nation representing its people or army
The author and characters often use the name of a nation or Israelite tribe to mean its people or its army. It may sound as if an individual with that name is doing an action, but it is actually a group of people descended from that individual. Once you are aware of this usage, the meaning should be evident from the context. (See: Metonymy)
“the sons of”
Similarly, the author and characters often use the expression “the sons of” to mean the people or army of a nation or Israelite tribe descended from the individual who is then named. They do not mean only the literal, first-generation male descendants of that person. Once you are aware of this usage, the meaning should be evident from the context. (See: Metaphor)
“to the face of”
The author and characters often use the expression “to the face of” to mean “before,” “in front of,” or “in the presence of” a person or thing. This is by association with the way one can see the face of a person who is present and the way people typically face forward, toward what is before or in front of them. This usage occurs very frequently in the book, about 60 times, and accounts for almost every instance of the word “face.” Only in 5:14 and 7:6 does the word refer literally to part of the body, where Joshua bows down with his face to the ground. (See: Metonymy)
“from your faces”
In the phrase “from your faces” in 2:11 and 23:3 the word “from” introduces the cause of the action. In 2:11 it introduces the cause of the the inhabitants of Jericho’s fear and in 23:3 it introduces the cause of Yahweh’s action. In these two passages the word “faces” represents the Israelite people themselves, in their entirety. See the synecdoche note for the phrase “from your faces” in these two passages for more information. (See: Synecdoche)
“all of Israel”
This phrase appears sixteen times in the book of Joshua, but it does not always mean every single person in the nation of Israel. Often it means the Israelite army. At other times it refers to representatives of the twelve tribes of Israel. In still other passages, it probably means a large number of the people in the nation of Israel. However, in a few contexts it does seem to indicate every Israelite, as when Yahweh tells Joshua in 3:7, “This day I will begin to make you great in the eyes of all of Israel, who will know that just as I was with Moses, I am with you.” (See: Hyperbole)
“shall”
The ULT represents the Hebrew instructional verb form with the English helping verb “shall.” For example, when Deborah tells Barak in Judges 4:6 “and you shall take with you 10,000 men,” she is instructing him to take 10,000 men with him. Other ways to say this are: “you are to take 10,000 men with you” or “take 10,000 men with you.” Translate this form with the most natural way in your language for giving instructions. (See: Irregular Use of Tenses)
Part 4: Specific Translation Issues in Chapters 13–21
There are some specific translation issues in the section of the book that describes the territories of the Israelite tribes and their borders.
“inheritance”
The author uses the idea of “inheritance” by association to mean a lasting possession that would be passed down to future generations. (See: Metonymy)
“went up,” “went down”
In Hebrew, writers and speakers generally indicated whether people were going up to a higher elevation or going down to a lower elevation when they traveled. Such expressions occur frequently in the descriptions of tribal borders. If your language does not mark travel for change in elevation, you can translate such expressions more simply. For example, you could just say “went” instead of “went up” or “went down.” (See: Making Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information Explicit)
“from” a direction “to” a place
The author describes the location of one place relative to another in the way that is characteristic of his culture. For example, speaking of the territory of Naphtali, he describes the territory of Asher as being “from the west” relative to it, meaning that someone would be coming from the west to go from Asher to Naphtali. In your translation, express this in the way that your culture describes the relative location of places. For example, you might say instead that Asher was “to the west” of Naphtali. (See: Idiom)
“the sea”
When the author says “the sea,” he means the Mediterranean Sea. He calls it the Great Sea when he gives it a name. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
“seaward”
The author uses the term seaward by association to mean toward the direction of the Mediterranean Sea, that is, from his perspective, to the west. (See: Metonymy)
“toward the sunrise,” “from the sunrise”
The author uses the term sunrise by association to mean the direction where the sun rises, that is, the east. (See: Metonymy)
Names in border descriptions
All names in border descriptions are the names of cities and towns unless otherwise indicated in the biblical text, in a note, or in the UST. (See: How to Translate Names)
Joshua 1
Joshua 1 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter describes the Israelites’ preparations for the conquest of the land of Canaan. * Yahweh encourages Joshua (1:1–9) * The eastern tribes send their armies (1:10–16)
At the start of the book of Joshua, the biblical narrative continues naturally from the end of the book of Deuteronomy.
Translation Issues in This Chapter
“Be strong and courageous”
Yahweh tells Joshua in verses 6, 7, and 9 to “be strong and courageous,” and the leaders of the eastern tribes tell him the same thing in verse 18. The words “strong” and “courageous” mean similar things. Yahweh and the tribal leaders are using the two terms together for emphasis. Joshua needs to act with great courage, but if he does, Yahweh will give him victory and honor him. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single word or phrase, but you should translate this expression the same way each time so that your readers will recognize its importance in this part of the story. (See: Doublet)
“you” and “your”
The words “you” and “your” are plural in vv. 2–3 because Yahweh is speaking about the Israelites. They are singular in vv. 2–9 because Yahweh is speaking to Joshua. They are plural in vv. 11–15 because groups are being addressed. They are singular in vv. 16–18 because the tribal leaders are speaking to Joshua.
Joshua 1:1
Now it happened
Quote: וַיְהִ֗י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, the author is using this phrase to introduce a new event in the story. Use a word, phrase, or other method in your language that is natural for introducing a new event.
Nun
Quote: נ֔וּן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The word Nun is the name of a man, Joshua’s father.
Joshua 1:2
And now
Quote: וְעַתָּה֩ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, the phrase translated as And now is an expression that people of this time used to introduce the main point of a message. If your language has a comparable expression that it uses for this same purpose, you can use it in your translation, here and for the other instances of this expression in the book. Alternate translation: [So here is what I want you to do:]
arise
Quote: ק֨וּם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Yahweh is using the expression arise to tell Joshua to take action and lead the Israelites across the Jordan River to begin the conquest of Canaan. He is not telling him to get out of bed or stand up from a seated position. Alternate translation: [get going]
to them, to the sons of Israel
Quote: לָהֶ֖ם לִבְנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Since Joshua is one of the sons of Israel, Yahweh is referring to him in the third person when he says them. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could have Yahweh refer to him in the second person. This would indicate explicitly that Joshua is included in this promise. Alternate translation: [to you and the rest of the sons of Israel] or [to you and all of the other people of Israel]
to the sons of Israel
Quote: לִבְנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, here and in many places throughout the book, sons means “descendants,” so the phrase sons of is describing a people group. Alternate translation: [to the people of Israel]
Joshua 1:3
Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon
Quote: כָּל־מָק֗וֹם אֲשֶׁ֨ר תִּדְרֹ֧ךְ כַּֽף־רַגְלְכֶ֛ם בּ֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Yahweh is using part of each of the Israelites, the sole of your foot, to represent the people of Israel themselves. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Every place that you will tread upon]
your foot … to you
Quote: רַגְלְכֶ֛ם & לָכֶ֣ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
Here, the words your and you are plural and refer to Joshua and all the other Israelite people. It may be more natural in your language to use a plural form of foot and to indicate specifically that you is plural. Alternate translation: [your feet … to all of you]
I have given it to you
Quote: לָכֶ֣ם נְתַתִּ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture
Yahweh is using the past tense in order to refer to something that he will do in the future. He is doing this to show that the event will certainly happen. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use the future tense. Alternate translation: [I will give it to you] or [I will certainly give it to you]
Joshua 1:4
the Great River, the Euphrates River
Quote: הַנָּהָ֧ר הַגָּד֣וֹל נְהַר־פְּרָ֗ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The phrase the Great River is another name for the Euphrates River. Alternate translation: [the Great River, that is, the Euphrates River]
unto the Great Sea
Quote: הַיָּ֥ם הַגָּד֖וֹל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The phrase the Great Sea is another name for the “Mediterranean Sea.”
from the going of the sun
Quote: מְב֣וֹא הַשָּׁ֑מֶשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Yahweh is using the going of the sun, that is, the sunset, by association to mean “the west,” since the sun sets in the west. Alternate translation: [in the west]
your territory
Quote: גְּבוּלְכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
Here, the word your is plural and refers to the tribes of Israel and includes Joshua. Alternate translation: [the territory of you Israelites]
Joshua 1:5
No man
Quote: לֹֽא & אִישׁ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Since the book of Joshua describes how the kings of cities and kingdoms led their soldiers into battle to oppose Joshua, the phrase No man seems implicitly to mean “No king and his army” or more broadly “No people group.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: [No king and his army] or [No people group]
will {be able to} stand to your face
Quote: יִתְיַצֵּ֥ב & לְפָנֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
In this context, the word stand means “resist” or “withstand.” You could indicate this meaning explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [will be able to resist to your face] or [will be able to resist you]
will {be able to} stand to your face
Quote: יִתְיַצֵּ֥ב & לְפָנֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
In this context the phrase to your face either means “in front of you,” with face meaning by association the area in front of Joshua, or “against you,” with part of Joshua, his face, representing all of him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [will be able to stand against you] or [will be able to resist you]
to your face … your life. … with you … I will … abandon you … I will … leave you
Quote: לְפָנֶ֔יךָ & חַיֶּ֑יךָ & עִמָּ֔ךְ & אַרְפְּךָ֖ & אֶעֶזְבֶֽךָּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
As the Introduction to this chapter discusses, the words you and your are singular in this verse and through verse 9, since they refer to Joshua. So use singular forms in your translation if your language marks that distinction.
I will not abandon you and I will not leave you
Quote: לֹ֥א אַרְפְּךָ֖ וְלֹ֥א אֶעֶזְבֶֽךָּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
The phrases I will not abandon you and I will not leave you mean the same thing. Yahweh says the same thing twice, in slightly different ways, to emphasize to Joshua that he will be with him. If saying the same thing twice might be confusing for your readers, you could combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: [I will not ever abandon you] or [I will certainly stay with you always]
I will not abandon you and I will not leave you
Quote: לֹ֥א אַרְפְּךָ֖ וְלֹ֥א אֶעֶזְבֶֽךָּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives
If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a positive expression to translate these two double negatives that consist of the negative particle not and the negative verb abandon and leave. Alternate translation: [I will always be with you and help you]
Joshua 1:6
Be strong and be courageous
Quote: חֲזַ֖ק וֶאֱמָ֑ץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
The phrases Be strong and be courageous mean similar things. Yahweh is using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [Be very courageous]
to their fathers
Quote: לַאֲבוֹתָ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here, fathers means “ancestors” and refers specifically to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to their forefathers] or [to their forefathers Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob]
Joshua 1:7
be strong and be very courageous
Quote: חֲזַ֨ק וֶֽאֱמַ֜ץ מְאֹ֗ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
These are the same two phrases that occurred in the previous verse, except the word very is added here for increased emphasis. See how you translated the phrase “Be strong and be courageous” in the previous verse and consider how you might add even more emphasis here. Alternate translation: [Be entirely courageous]
Do not turn aside from it {to} the right or {to} the left
Quote: אַל־תָּס֥וּר מִמֶּ֖נּוּ יָמִ֣ין וּשְׂמֹ֑אול (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Yahweh is speaking as if the law that Moses … commanded were literally a road that Joshua was walking on and as if Joshua might turn aside from it and walk on a different path. He means that Joshua must not stop living in the manner in which God commanded in the law. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Do not stop obeying it]
to} the right or {to} the left
Quote: יָמִ֣ין וּשְׂמֹ֑אול (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
Yahweh is speaking of two things in order to mean those things and everything in between them. Continuing the image of the road, he means that Joshua should not go off the road in any direction. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in any way]
Joshua 1:8
This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth
Quote: לֹֽא־יָמ֡וּשׁ סֵפֶר֩ הַתּוֹרָ֨ה הַזֶּ֜ה מִפִּ֗יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Yahweh is using the phrase shall not depart from your mouth by association to mean that Joshua must continually read the book of the law, since people at this time read out loud, even when reading alone, so Joshua would use his mouth to form the words as he read. (However, this is not a command to read only alone. It envisions that Joshua might at times read the law aloud to the people of Israel.) Alternate translation: [You shall not stop reading this book of the law]
day and night
Quote: יוֹמָ֣ם וָלַ֔יְלָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
Yahweh is referring to the two main components of time, day and night, to mean “all the time.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [continually]
you will make your ways prosperous and then you will succeed
Quote: תַּצְלִ֥יחַ אֶת־דְּרָכֶ֖ךָ וְאָ֥ז תַּשְׂכִּֽיל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
The phrases you will make your ways prosperous and you will succeed mean similar things. Yahweh is using the two phrases together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [you will assuredly be successful]
you will make your ways prosperous
Quote: תַּצְלִ֥יחַ אֶת־דְּרָכֶ֖ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
Yahweh is speaking of Joshua’s ways as if they were a living thing that Joshua could make … prosperous. Yahweh is speaking of Joshua’s actions as if they were ways or roads that he was walking on. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [you will prosper in what you do]
Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you
Quote: הֲל֤וֹא צִוִּיתִ֨יךָ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Yahweh is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [Surely I have commanded you!]
Be strong and be courageous
Quote: חֲזַ֣ק וֶאֱמָ֔ץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
See how you translated these same phrases in 1:6. Alternate translation: [Be very courageous]
Do not be terrified and do not be dismayed, for Yahweh your God {is} with you in every {place} where you go
Quote: אַֽל־תַּעֲרֹ֖ץ וְאַל־תֵּחָ֑ת כִּ֤י עִמְּךָ֙ יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהֶ֔יךָ בְּכֹ֖ל אֲשֶׁ֥ר תֵּלֵֽךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since Yahweh your God is with you in every place where you go, do not be terrified and do not be dismayed]
Do not be terrified and do not be dismayed
Quote: אַֽל־תַּעֲרֹ֖ץ וְאַל־תֵּחָ֑ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
The phrases Do not be terrified and do not be dismayed mean similar things. Yahweh combines them to emphasize that Joshua must not fear. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [Make sure that you are not terrified] or [There is absolutely no reason for you to be terrified]
Yahweh your God {is} with you
Quote: עִמְּךָ֙ יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Here Yahweh speaks about himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this with the first person. Alternate translation: [I, Yahweh your God, am with you]
Joshua 1:11
and command the people, saying, ‘Prepare provisions for yourselves, because within three days you {will be} crossing over this Jordan to enter to possess the land that Yahweh your God {is} giving to you to possess it
Quote: וְצַוּ֤וּ אֶת־הָעָם֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר הָכִ֥ינוּ לָכֶ֖ם צֵידָ֑ה כִּ֞י בְּע֣וֹד ׀ שְׁלֹ֣שֶׁת יָמִ֗ים אַתֶּם֙ עֹֽבְרִים֙ אֶת־הַיַּרְדֵּ֣ן הַזֶּ֔ה לָבוֹא֙ לָרֶ֣שֶׁת אֶת־הָאָ֔רֶץ אֲשֶׁר֙ יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹֽהֵיכֶ֔ם נֹתֵ֥ן לָכֶ֖ם לְרִשְׁתָּֽהּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [and command the people to prepare provisions for themselves, because within three days they will be crossing over this Jordan to enter to possess the land that Yahweh their God is giving to them to possess it]
within three days
Quote: בְּע֣וֹד ׀ שְׁלֹ֣שֶׁת יָמִ֗ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Joshua was counting the current day as day one. This was the way that Jewish people counted days. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: [in two days from now] or [on the day after tomorrow]
Joshua 1:13
Remember the word that
Quote: זָכוֹר֙ אֶת־הַדָּבָ֔ר אֲשֶׁ֨ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Joshua did not think that the people from these three tribes had forgotten what Moses had instructed them. Rather, he is using the word Remember to cause them to pay attention to what he is going to say next. If you would not use the word Remember for this purpose, you could use an equivalent expression or indicate the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: [You know the word that] or [You recall the word that] or [Keep in mind the word that]
the word
Quote: אֶת־הַדָּבָ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here, word represents what Moses had said to Joshua using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the instructions] or [the words]
you, … your God {… to you, … to you
Quote: אֶתְכֶ֛ם & אֱלֹהֵיכֶם֙ & לָכֶ֔ם & לָכֶ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
Every occurrence of the words your and you in this verse are plural and refer to Joshua and the Israelites.
is} giving rest to you
Quote: מֵנִ֣יחַ לָכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The phrase give rest is an idiom that refers to living peacefully and settling down in the land after Israel defeated its enemies. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [will cause you to live peacefully]
Joshua 1:14
and your livestock
Quote: וּמִקְנֵיכֶם֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Here, the word translated as livestock refers to cows, sheep, and goats. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: [and your cows and sheep and goats]
on the other side of the Jordan
Quote: בְּעֵ֣בֶר הַיַּרְדֵּ֑ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Joshua is describing this land from the perspective of the land that Yahweh originally promised to the Israelites west of the Jordan. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation as is modeled in the UST if that would be helpful to your readers.
to the face of
Quote: לִפְנֵ֣י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See the Introduction to Judges for a discussion of the phrase “to the face of.” Alternate translation: [before]
your brothers
Quote: אֲחֵיכֶ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Here, the word brothers means “fellow Israelites” and refers to the Israelites from the other tribes of Israel. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: [your fellow Israelites]
the warriors of valor
Quote: גִּבּוֹרֵ֣י הַחַ֔יִל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The phrase the warriors of valor refers to the men who were fighting age, over 20 years old. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: [the men of fighting age]
the warriors of valor
Quote: גִּבּוֹרֵ֣י הַחַ֔יִל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of valor, you could express the same idea with an adjective or in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [the warriors who are valiant]
Joshua 1:15
when … gives rest to your brothers
Quote: אֲשֶׁר־יָנִ֨יחַ & לַֽאֲחֵיכֶם֮ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The phrase gives rest refers to living peacefully and settling down in the land after Israel defeated its enemies. It has the same meaning as the phrase give rest in 1:13. See how you translated that phrase there.
to your brothers
Quote: לַֽאֲחֵיכֶם֮ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See how you translated the word brothers in the previous verse where it is used with the same meaning.
Joshua 1:18
Every man
Quote: כָּל־אִ֞ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations
Although the term man is masculine, the speakers are using the word in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: [Every person]
Every man who disobeys your mouth and will not hear your words according to all of what you command him shall be put to death
Quote: כָּל־אִ֞ישׁ אֲשֶׁר־יַמְרֶ֣ה אֶת־פִּ֗יךָ וְלֹֽא־יִשְׁמַ֧ע אֶת־דְּבָרֶ֛יךָ לְכֹ֥ל אֲשֶׁר־תְּצַוֶּ֖נּוּ יוּמָ֑ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize that any form of disobedience will be punished. The phrase disobeys your mouth and the phrase will not hear your words mean basically the same thing. The speakers are saying the same thing twice, in slightly different ways, to emphasize that they will put to death anyone who disobeys what Joshua commands. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could combine the phrases and express the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: [We will surely put to death every man who disobeys what you instruct us to do]
disobeys your mouth and will not hear your words
Quote: יַמְרֶ֣ה אֶת־פִּ֗יךָ וְלֹֽא־יִשְׁמַ֧ע אֶת־דְּבָרֶ֛יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The speakers are using the words mouth and words and associating them with the instructions or commands that Joshua would speak with his mouth using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [disobeys your commands and will not hear your instructions]
shall be put to death
Quote: יוּמָ֑ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, the context indicates that the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh will do it. Alternate translation: [we will put to death]
shall be put to death
Quote: יוּמָ֑ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of death, you could express the same idea with an active verb or in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [we will kill]
be strong and be courageous
Quote: חֲזַ֥ק וֶאֱמָֽץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
See how you translated the phrase be strong and be courageous in 1:6.
Joshua 2
Joshua 2 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter begins the story of the conquest of the land of Canaan by describing how Joshua sends spies to investigate the situation in the city of Jericho.
Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter
Rahab’s faith
Even though Rahab was a Canaanite, she expressed her faith in Yahweh, the God of Israel. The statement “for Yahweh your God, he is God in heaven above and on the earth below” is an expression of her faith. Because Rahab recognized Yahweh as the true God, she helped the Israelites, and as a result, they spared her and her family. (See: faith)
Joshua 2:1
Shittim
Quote: הַשִּׁטִּ֞ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place on the east side of the Jordan River. It means “acacia trees.”
a woman, a prostitute, and her name {was} Rahab
Quote: אִשָּׁ֥ה זוֹנָ֛ה וּשְׁמָ֥הּ רָחָ֖ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants
The author is using the phrase a woman, a prostitute to introduce Rahab as a new participant in the story. If your language has its own way of introducing new participants, you can use it here in your translation. Alternate translation: [a certain woman named Rahab, who was a prostitute]
Joshua 2:2
And it was said to the king of Jericho
Quote: וַיֵּ֣אָמַ֔ר לְמֶ֥לֶךְ יְרִיח֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And someone told the king of Jericho]
Behold
Quote: הִנֵּ֣ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The person addressing the king is speaking as if he wants him to look at something, but he is actually using the term Behold to focus attention on what he is about to say. Your language may have a comparable expression that you could use in your translation. Alternate translation: [Listen]
Joshua 2:3
Bring out the men, the ones coming to you, who came to your house, because they have come to search out all of the land
Quote: ה֠וֹצִיאִי הָאֲנָשִׁ֨ים הַבָּאִ֤ים אֵלַ֨יִךְ֙ אֲשֶׁר־בָּ֣אוּ לְבֵיתֵ֔ךְ כִּ֛י לַחְפֹּ֥ר אֶת־כָּל־הָאָ֖רֶץ בָּֽאוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since the men who came to you, who came to your house, have come to search out all the land, bring them out]
Joshua 2:5
And the gate was to shut
Quote: וַיְהִ֨י הַשַּׁ֜עַר לִסְגּ֗וֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action you can indicate that men did it. Alternate translation: [And men shut the gate]
Pursue quickly after them, for you may overtake them
Quote: רִדְפ֥וּ מַהֵ֛ר אַחֲרֵיהֶ֖ם כִּ֥י תַשִּׂיגֽוּם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since you might still overtake them, pursue quickly after them]
Joshua 2:6
Now she had brought them up to the roof and had hidden them in the stalks of flax arranged by her on the roof
Quote: וְהִ֖יא הֶעֱלָ֣תַם הַגָּ֑גָה וַֽתִּטְמְנֵם֙ בְּפִשְׁתֵּ֣י הָעֵ֔ץ הָעֲרֻכ֥וֹת לָ֖הּ עַל־הַגָּֽג (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The author is providing this background information to explain how Rahab had hidden the men, as described in 2:4. Use a natural way in your language for introducing background information.
to the roof
Quote: הַגָּ֑גָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The roof was flat and strong, so people could walk around on it. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate explicitly that the roof was flat. The UST models one way to do this.
in the stalks of flax
Quote: בְּפִשְׁתֵּ֣י הָעֵ֔ץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
The word flax refers to a plant that is grown for its fibers, which are used in making cloth. It has tall, slender stalks that can be tied into bundles. If your readers would not be familiar with this type of plant, you could use the name of something similar in your area, or you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: [in the long stalks of a plant]
arranged by her
Quote: הָעֲרֻכ֥וֹת לָ֖הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [that she had arranged]
Joshua 2:7
the fords
Quote: הַֽמַּעְבְּר֑וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
The word fords describes places where a river or other body of water is shallow enough for people to get to the other side by walking through it. If you do not have a term to describe this type of place, you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: [the crossings]
And they shut the gate
Quote: וְהַשַּׁ֣עַר סָגָ֔רוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Here, they is an indefinite pronoun that does not have a specific referent in the immediate context. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this with a different expression that does not use an indefinite pronoun. Alternate translation: [And the gate was shut]
Joshua 2:8
went up
Quote: עָלְתָ֥ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
Your language might say “came up” rather than went up in a context such as this. Use whichever is more natural. Alternate translation: [came up]
Joshua 2:9
I know that Yahweh has given the land to you
Quote: יָדַ֕עְתִּי כִּֽי־נָתַ֧ן יְהוָ֛ה לָכֶ֖ם אֶת־הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you
Here, the word you is plural and refers to all the Israelite people. Alternate translation: [I know that Yahweh has given the land to you Israelites]
the dread of you has fallen on us
Quote: נָפְלָ֤ה אֵֽימַתְכֶם֙ עָלֵ֔ינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Rahab is speaking as if dread or fear of the Israelites had actually fallen on the people of Jericho and Canaan. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [we have become terrified of you]
have melted from your faces
Quote: נָמֹ֛גוּ & מִפְּנֵיכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Rahab is speaking as if the people of Jericho and Canaan had actually melted in front of or in the presence of the Israelites. The implication is that they will not be able to resist the Israelites. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [will not be able to resist you]
Joshua 2:10
the Amorite
Quote: הָאֱמֹרִ֜י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
Rahab is not referring to a specific Amorite. She means the Amorites in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [the Amorites]
that you devoted them
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר הֶחֱרַמְתֶּ֖ם אוֹתָֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See the discussion in the Introduction to Joshua of the term that is here translated as devoted. In this context, the term refers to complete destruction. Alternate translation: [that you completely destroyed them]
Joshua 2:11
and our heart has melted
Quote: וַיִּמַּ֣ס לְבָבֵ֔נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns
Since Rahab is referring to a group of people, it might be more natural in your language to use the plural form of heart. Alternate translation: [and our hearts have melted]
and our heart has melted
Quote: וַיִּמַּ֣ס לְבָבֵ֔נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
See how you translated the similar expression in 2:9. (Your language may use a different part of the body than the heart to represent a person’s thoughts and emotions. If so, you can use that in your translation.) Alternate translation: [and in our hearts, we have become very afraid]
and the spirit in a man no longer stands from your faces
Quote: וְלֹא־קָ֨מָה ע֥וֹד ר֛וּחַ בְּאִ֖ישׁ מִפְּנֵיכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the similar expression in 1:5. Alternate translation: [and the spirit in a man is no longer able to resist you]
and the spirit in a man no longer stands from your faces
Quote: וְלֹא־קָ֨מָה ע֥וֹד ר֛וּחַ בְּאִ֖ישׁ מִפְּנֵיכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Rahab is using one part of a person, his spirit, to mean all of him in the act of resisting or not. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and no man is able to resist you any longer]
in a man
Quote: בְּאִ֖ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations
Although the term man is masculine, Rahab is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: [in a person]
from your faces
Quote: מִפְּנֵיכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Rahab is using one part of the Israelites, their faces, to represent all of them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or state the meaning plainly. See the Introduction to Judges for a discussion of the phrase from your faces in this passage. Alternate translation: “because of you”
in the heavens above and on the earth below
Quote: בַּשָּׁמַ֣יִם מִמַּ֔עַל וְעַל־הָאָ֖רֶץ מִתָּֽחַת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
Rahab is using the two major components of creation to mean all of creation itself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [over all of creation]
Joshua 2:12
And now
Quote: וְעַתָּ֗ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the same expression in 1:2. Alternate translation: [So here is what I want you to do:]
I am doing kindness with you, that you yourselves will also do kindness with the house of my father
Quote: עָשִׂ֥יתִי עִמָּכֶ֖ם חָ֑סֶד וַעֲשִׂיתֶ֨ם גַּם־אַתֶּ֜ם עִם־בֵּ֤ית אָבִי֙ חֶ֔סֶד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of kindness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [I am acting kindly toward you, swear to me that you yourselves will also act kindly toward the house of my father]
the house of my father
Quote: בֵּ֤ית אָבִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Rahab is not using the expression the house of my father to refer to the building in which her father lives. As the next verse indicates, the expression means her extended family, which included her parents, her siblings, and their spouses and children. Alternate translation: [the household of my father] or [my extended family]
a sign of truth
Quote: א֥וֹת אֱמֶֽת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of truth, you could express the same idea in another way. (This sign turns out to be the scarlet cord that the spies give Rahab in 2:18.) Alternate translation: [a sign that you will truly do what you promise]
Joshua 2:13
and you will deliver our lives from death
Quote: וְהִצַּלְתֶּ֥ם אֶת־נַפְשֹׁתֵ֖ינוּ מִמָּֽוֶת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Rahab is speaking as if death itself were threatening the lives of her family so that the spies needed to deliver or rescue them from it. She is using death to represent the Israelite army, which was about to enter Canaan and kill its inhabitants. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and you will not let your fellow Israelites kill us]
Joshua 2:14
Our lives in place of yours to die
Quote: נַפְשֵׁ֤נוּ תַחְתֵּיכֶם֙ לָמ֔וּת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula
This is an oath formula in which the two spies are promising to give their lives (allow themselves to be killed) if they do not keep their promise and spare the lives of Rahab and her family when the Israelites conquer Jericho and kill its inhabitants. Alternate translation: [If we do not do what we promise, may Yahweh take our lives] or [If you and your family are killed when we conquer Jericho, may Yahweh kill us as well]
in place of yours
Quote: תַחְתֵּיכֶם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
The word yours is plural and refers to Rahab and her family. Alternate translation: [in place of the lives of you and your family]
that we will do kindness and faithfulness with you
Quote: וְעָשִׂ֥ינוּ עִמָּ֖ךְ חֶ֥סֶד וֶאֱמֶֽת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of kindness and faithfulness, you could express the same ideas with adjectives or in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [that we will act kindly and faithfully towards you]
that we will do kindness and faithfulness with you
Quote: וְעָשִׂ֥ינוּ עִמָּ֖ךְ חֶ֥סֶד וֶאֱמֶֽת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The terms kindness and faithfulness mean similar things. The spies are using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [then we will surely deal kindly with you] or [then we will surely act faithfully toward you]
Joshua 2:15
Then she lowered them down by a rope through the window
Quote: וַתּוֹרִדֵ֥ם בַּחֶ֖בֶל בְּעַ֣ד הַֽחַלּ֑וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events
The author is describing a particular event before describing other events that preceded it. This actually occurred after Rahab spoke her final words to the spies in 2:21. In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they happened and put the information in this verse after the quotation from Rahab in 2:21. Alternatively, you could indicate that what the author says here anticipates what happens a little later in the story. Alternate translation: [Then she agreed to lower them down by a rope through the window]
for her house {was} in the side of the wall, so she was dwelling in the wall
Quote: כִּ֤י בֵיתָהּ֙ בְּקִ֣יר הַֽחוֹמָ֔ה וּבַֽחוֹמָ֖ה הִ֥יא יוֹשָֽׁבֶת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The author is providing background information to help readers understand what happens in the story. Because Rahab’s house was built into the city wall, she was able to let the spies out a window and lower them down to the ground outside the city wall. That way they were able to escape from the city even though the gates had been shut. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.
Joshua 2:16
three days
Quote: שְׁלֹ֣שֶׁת יָמִ֗ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the similar expression in 1:11. Alternate translation: [until the day after tomorrow]
Joshua 2:17
We {will be} innocent from this oath of yours that you have made us swear
Quote: נְקִיִּ֣ם אֲנַ֔חְנוּ מִשְּׁבֻעָתֵ֥ךְ הַזֶּ֖ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר הִשְׁבַּעְתָּֽנוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The spies are implicitly introducing the conditions that Rahab and her family must meet in order for their lives to be spared. If they do not meet these conditions, then the spies will be innocent, that is, not guilty of breaking their oath, if Rahab and her family are killed. Alternate translation: [We will be innocent from this oath of yours that you have made us swear if you do not meet the following conditions]
Joshua 2:18
Behold us, coming
Quote: הִנֵּ֛ה אֲנַ֥חְנוּ בָאִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The spies are using a common expression that means that they were about to do something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Now we are about to come]
this cord of thread of scarlet
Quote: אֶת־תִּקְוַ֡ת חוּט֩ הַשָּׁנִ֨י הַזֶּ֜ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
The word scarlet describes a bright red color. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: [this bright red, woven cord]
the house of your father
Quote: בֵּ֣ית אָבִ֔יךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the similar expression in 1:12. Alternate translation: [the household of your father] or [your extended family]
Joshua 2:19
And it will be, anyone who goes out from the doors of your house to the outside, his blood {will be} on his head and we {will be} innocent. But anyone who is with you in the house, his blood {will be} on our head if a hand shall be on him
Quote: וְהָיָ֡ה כֹּ֣ל אֲשֶׁר־יֵצֵא֩ מִדַּלְתֵ֨י בֵיתֵ֧ךְ ׀ הַח֛וּצָה דָּמ֥וֹ בְרֹאשׁ֖וֹ וַאֲנַ֣חְנוּ נְקִיִּ֑ם וְ֠כֹל אֲשֶׁ֨ר יִֽהְיֶ֤ה אִתָּךְ֙ בַּבַּ֔יִת דָּמ֣וֹ בְרֹאשֵׁ֔נוּ אִם־יָ֖ד תִּֽהְיֶה־בּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical
The spies are saying what would happen in the case of two different possibilities. They are describing what second event would follow a first event in each case. If it would be helpful in your language, you could add a connecting word before the second event. Alternate translation: [Now suppose someone goes out from the doors of your house to the outside and is killed. Then his blood will be on his head, and we will be innocent. But suppose someone stays with you in the house. Then his blood will be on our heads if a hand is laid on him]
from the doors of your house
Quote: מִדַּלְתֵ֨י בֵיתֵ֧ךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The spies are using one part of Rahab’s house, its doors, to mean all it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [from inside your house]
his blood {will be} on his head … his blood {will be} on our head
Quote: דָּמ֥וֹ בְרֹאשׁ֖וֹ & דָּמ֣וֹ בְרֹאשֵׁ֔נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The spies are using the term blood by association to mean “death.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [his death will be on his head … his death will be on our head]
his blood {will be} on his head … his blood {will be} on our head
Quote: דָּמ֥וֹ בְרֹאשׁ֖וֹ & דָּמ֣וֹ בְרֹאשֵׁ֔נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The spies are using a common expression that means that someone was morally and legally responsible for something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [he will be responsible for his own death … we will be responsible for his death]
on our head
Quote: בְרֹאשֵׁ֔נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns
Since the spies are referring to themselves, and there are two of them, it might be more natural in your language to use the plural form of head. Alternate translation: [on our heads]
a hand shall be on him
Quote: יָ֖ד תִּֽהְיֶה־בּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The spies are using the expression a hand shall be upon to mean that someone would be injured or harmed. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [anyone harms that person]
Joshua 2:21
According to your words, so {be} it
Quote: כְּדִבְרֵיכֶ֣ם כֶּן־ה֔וּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This expression indicates that Rahab agreed to the men’s terms of the oath. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [I agree with these conditions]
According to your words
Quote: כְּדִבְרֵיכֶ֣ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Rahab is using the term words by association to mean what the spies said by using words. Alternate translation: [According to what you have said]
Joshua 2:23
all of the things having found them
Quote: אֵ֥ת כָּל־הַמֹּצְא֖וֹת אוֹתָֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
The author is speaking of what the spies saw and experienced as they investigated Jericho as if those were living thing that could have found them. (The author is making a play on words; in the previous verse, the pursuers did not “find” the spies; instead, exciting and encouraging things found them as they explored the land.) If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [all that they had seen and experienced]
Joshua 2:24
Yahweh has given all of the land into our hand
Quote: נָתַ֧ן יְהוָ֛ה בְּיָדֵ֖נוּ אֶת־כָּל־הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture
The two spies are using the past tense in order to refer to something that will happen in the future. They are doing that to show that the event will certainly happen. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use the future tense. Alternate translation: [Yahweh will give all of the land into our hand]
Yahweh has given all of the land into our hand
Quote: נָתַ֧ן יְהוָ֛ה בְּיָדֵ֖נוּ אֶת־כָּל־הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
In this expression, having something in one’s hand represents, by association, possessing it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Yahweh has given us possession of all of the land] or [Yahweh will enable us to conquer all of the land]
all of the dwellers of the land are melting from our faces
Quote: נָמֹ֛גוּ כָּל־יֹשְׁבֵ֥י הָאָ֖רֶץ מִפָּנֵֽינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the similar expressions in 2:9 and 2:11. Alternate translation: [all the dwellers of the land are so afraid of us that they will not be able to resist us]
Joshua 3
Joshua 3 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter begins to describe how the Israelites crossed the Jordan River, even though it was at flood stage and overflowing its banks, because Yahweh stopped its waters from flowing.
Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter
God dried up the Jordan River
Joshua told the people in 3:5, “Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow Yahweh will do wonders in your midst.” He meant that Yahweh would stop the Jordan River from flowing so that they could cross it. The people needed to be in a state of special dedication to Yahweh in order to appreciate what he was doing and take part in it. The conquest of the Promised Land was to be accomplished through the supernatural power of God. (See: miracle, wonder, sign and Promised Land)
Joshua 3:2
at the end of three days
Quote: מִקְצֵ֖ה שְׁלֹ֣שֶׁת יָמִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the similar expression in 1:11. Express this in the way your culture records time. Alternate translation: [two days later] or [after they had spent another full day in camp]
Joshua 3:3-4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: כִּרְאֽוֹתְכֶ֗ם אֵ֣ת אֲר֤וֹן בְּרִית־יְהוָה֙ אֱלֹ֣הֵיכֶ֔ם וְהַכֹּֽהֲנִים֙ הַלְוִיִּ֔ם נֹשְׂאִ֖ים אֹת֑וֹ וְאַתֶּ֗ם תִּסְעוּ֙ מִמְּק֣וֹמְכֶ֔ם וַהֲלַכְתֶּ֖ם אַחֲרָֽיו׃ אַ֣ךְ ׀ רָח֣וֹק יִהְיֶ֗ה בֵּֽינֵיכֶם֙ ובינו כְּאַלְפַּ֥יִם אַמָּ֖ה בַּמִּדָּ֑ה אַֽל־תִּקְרְב֣וּ אֵלָ֗יו לְמַ֤עַן אֲשֶׁר־תֵּֽדְעוּ֙ אֶת־הַדֶּ֨רֶךְ֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר תֵּֽלְכוּ־בָ֔הּ כִּ֣י לֹ֧א עֲבַרְתֶּ֛ם בַּדֶּ֖רֶךְ מִתְּמ֥וֹל שִׁלְשֽׁוֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
If if it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of the phrases in these two verses so that the reason why Joshua wants the Israelites to follow the ark will precede the instructions he gives them to do that. Alternate translation: [Since you have not passed over by the way from yesterday or the third day, so that you will know the way in which you should go, as you see the Box of the Covenant of Yahweh your God and the priests, the Levites, lifting it, then you yourselves shall set out from your place and go after it]
Joshua 3:4
about 2, 000 cubits
Quote: כְּאַלְפַּ֥יִם אַמָּ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance
The word cubit is a measurement equaling the distance from the elbow to the end of the middle finger tip. If it would help your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. Alternate translation: [about 900 meters] or [about 1,000 yards]
from yesterday {or} the third day
Quote: מִתְּמ֥וֹל שִׁלְשֽׁוֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
As in 1:11 and 3:2, this expression means “yesterday or the day before.” But in contexts such as this, the expression means more generally “at any time in the past.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [at any time in the past]
Joshua 3:6
to the face of … to the face of
Quote: לִפְנֵ֣י & לִפְנֵ֥י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See the Introduction to Judges for a discussion of the phrase “to the face of.” Alternate translation: [before … before]
Joshua 3:7
in the eyes of all of Israel
Quote: בְּעֵינֵ֖י כָּל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Yahweh is using the term eyes by association to mean sight. Sight, in turn, represents judgment and perspective. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [in the perspective of all the Israelites]
Joshua 3:8
saying, ‘As you come unto the edge of the waters of the Jordan, in the Jordan you shall stand
Quote: לֵאמֹ֑ר כְּבֹאֲכֶ֗ם עַד־קְצֵה֙ מֵ֣י הַיַּרְדֵּ֔ן בַּיַּרְדֵּ֖ן תַּעֲמֹֽדוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [telling them that as soon as they come to the edge of the waters of the Jordan, they are to stand still in the Jordan]
Joshua 3:9
the words of Yahweh your God
Quote: אֶת־דִּבְרֵ֖י יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹֽהֵיכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Joshua is using the term words to represent what Yahweh is about to say by using words. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [what Yahweh your God will say to you]
Joshua 3:10
and dispossessing, he will dispossess
Quote: וְהוֹרֵ֣שׁ יוֹרִ֣ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication
Joshua is repeating forms of the verb dispossess 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: [and he will surely dispossess]
the Canaanite and the Hittite and the Hivite and the Perizzite and the Girgashite and the Amorite and the Jebusite
Quote: אֶת־הַכְּנַעֲנִ֨י וְאֶת־הַחִתִּ֜י וְאֶת־הַחִוִּ֗י וְאֶת־הַפְּרִזִּי֙ וְאֶת־הַגִּרְגָּשִׁ֔י וְהָאֱמֹרִ֖י וְהַיְבוּסִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
Joshua is not referring to a specific individuals from each of these people groups. He means these people groups in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using the plural forms as is modeled in the UST.
Joshua 3:12
one man, one man to a tribe
Quote: אִישׁ־אֶחָ֥ד אִישׁ־אֶחָ֖ד לַשָּֽׁבֶט (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Joshua is using a common expression to indicate individuals representing groups to which they belong. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [taking one man from each tribe] or [choosing one representative from each tribe]
Joshua 3:13
the waters of the Jordan will be cut off
Quote: מֵ֤י הַיַּרְדֵּן֙ יִכָּ֣רֵת֔וּן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [Yahweh will cut off the waters of the Jordan]
Joshua 3:15
then the feet of the priests, the lifters of the Box, were dipped into the edge of the water
Quote: וְרַגְלֵ֤י הַכֹּֽהֲנִים֙ נֹשְׂאֵ֣י הָֽאָר֔וֹן נִטְבְּל֖וּ בִּקְצֵ֣ה הַמָּ֑יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [then the priests, the lifters of the Box, dipped their feet into the edge of the water]
Now the Jordan was full over all of its banks all of the days of the harvest
Quote: וְהַיַּרְדֵּ֗ן מָלֵא֙ עַל־כָּל־גְּדוֹתָ֔יו כֹּ֖ל יְמֵ֥י קָצִֽיר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The author is providing background information to help readers appreciate how great a miracle Yahweh did on this occasion. The implication is that the Israelites crossed the Jordan River during the days of the harvest, so Yahweh stopped its waters even when they were overflowing its banks. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.
all of the days of the harvest
Quote: כֹּ֖ל יְמֵ֥י קָצִֽיר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term days to refer to a specific time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [during harvest time]
Joshua 3:16
and those going down to the sea of Arabah, the Sea of Salt, were completely cut off
Quote: וְהַיֹּרְדִ֗ים עַ֣ל יָ֧ם הָעֲרָבָ֛ה יָם־הַמֶּ֖לַח תַּ֣מּוּ נִכְרָ֑תוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and Yahweh completely cut off those going down to the sea of Arabah, the Sea of Salt]
the sea of Arabah, the Sea of Salt
Quote: יָ֧ם הָעֲרָבָ֛ה יָם־הַמֶּ֖לַח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The words the sea of Arabah and Sea of Salt are both names for what is now known as “the Dead Sea.”
Joshua 4
Joshua 4 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter finishes the story of how the Israelites crossed the Jordan River, even though it was at flood stage and overflowing its banks, because Yahweh stopped its waters from flowing.
Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter
Victory through the power of Yahweh
The conquest of the land of Canaan was accomplished by Yahweh’s power, which he would show to be greater than that of all the kings in the land of Canaan. Joshua recognized that the Israelites would only be victorious through Yahweh’s power. This is why his first act after crossing the Jordan River was to have them build a monument of stones from the river as a witness to Yahweh’s power.
Translation Issues in This Chapter
Chiasm
Hebrew poetry sometimes uses a literary device called a “chiasm.” A chiasm is when words or phrases are ordered in a AB-BA sequence. This helped make a saying more memorable. Joshua uses a chiasm in 4:7 when he tells the Israelites what to say to their children when the ask about the monument of stones:
A Because the waters of the Jordan were cut off B from the face of the Box of the Covenant of Yahweh. B In its crossing over in the Jordan, A the waters of the Jordan were cut off.
You may be able to present this in your translation in a way that shows this literary device.
Joshua 4:2
one man, one man from a tribe
Quote: אִישׁ־אֶחָ֥ד אִישׁ־אֶחָ֖ד מִשָּֽׁבֶט (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the same expression in 3:12.
Joshua 4:3
and command them, saying: ‘Lift up for yourselves from here, from the midst of the Jordan, from the firm standing place of the feet of the priests, 12 stones. And you shall bring them over with you and you shall leave them in the lodging place in which you will lodge tonight
Quote: וְצַוּ֣וּ אוֹתָם֮ לֵאמֹר֒ שְׂאֽוּ־לָכֶ֨ם מִזֶּ֜ה מִתּ֣וֹךְ הַיַּרְדֵּ֗ן מִמַּצַּב֙ רַגְלֵ֣י הַכֹּהֲנִ֔ים הָכִ֖ין שְׁתֵּים־עֶשְׂרֵ֣ה אֲבָנִ֑ים וְהַעֲבַרְתֶּ֤ם אוֹתָם֙ עִמָּכֶ֔ם וְהִנַּחְתֶּ֣ם אוֹתָ֔ם בַּמָּל֕וֹן אֲשֶׁר־תָּלִ֥ינוּ ב֖וֹ הַלָּֽיְלָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
If your language would not use a direct quotation inside of a direct quotation, you could translate the second direct quotation as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: [And command them to lift up for themselves 12 stones from the midst of the Jordan, from the firm standing place of the feet of the priests, and tell them to bring those stones over with them and leave them in the lodging place in which they will lodge tonight]
from the firm standing place of the feet of the priests
Quote: מִמַּצַּב֙ רַגְלֵ֣י הַכֹּהֲנִ֔ים הָכִ֖ין (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Joshua is using one part of the priests, their feet, to mean all of them in the act of standing in the Jordan riverbed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [from the firm place on which the priests are now standing]
Joshua 4:4
one man, one man from a tribe
Quote: אִישׁ־אֶחָ֥ד אִישׁ־אֶחָ֖ד מִשָּֽׁבֶט (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the same expression in 3:12 and 4:2.
Joshua 4:5
And lift up for yourselves, a man one stone, upon his shoulder
Quote: וְהָרִ֨ימוּ לָכֶ֜ם אִ֣ישׁ אֶ֤בֶן אַחַת֙ עַל־שִׁכְמ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the similar expressions in 3:12 and 4:2. Alternate translation: [Each one of you should pick up a large stone and carry it on his shoulder]
to the face of
Quote: לִפְנֵ֨י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See the Introduction to Judges for a discussion of the phrase “to the face of.” Alternate translation: [before]
Joshua 4:6
your sons
Quote: בְּנֵיכֶ֤ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations
Although the term sons is masculine, Joshua is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both male and female descendants. Alternate translation: [your children]
tomorrow
Quote: מָחָר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Joshua is speaking as if the children of this generation of Israelites would ask about the stones on the day after this event, tomorrow. He is using the term to mean “in the future.” Many languages use this word in the same way, but if it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [in the future]
saying, ‘What {are} these stones to you
Quote: לֵאמֹ֔ר מָ֛ה הָאֲבָנִ֥ים הָאֵ֖לֶּה לָכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [wanting to know what these stones are to you]
What {are} these stones to you
Quote: מָ֛ה הָאֲבָנִ֥ים הָאֵ֖לֶּה לָכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The children of these Israelites would be using a common expression to ask about the significance of the stones for their parents. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [What connection do you have with these stones] or [Why did you bring these stones out of the Jordan River]
Joshua 4:7
Because the waters of the Jordan were cut off … the waters of the Jordan were cut off
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר נִכְרְת֜וּ מֵימֵ֤י הַיַּרְדֵּן֙ & נִכְרְת֖וּ מֵ֣י הַיַּרְדֵּ֑ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [Because Yahweh cut off the waters of the Jordan … Yahweh cut off the waters of the Jordan]
Because
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The speakers would leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [We brought these stones out of the Jordan because we wanted all future generations to remember that]
Because the waters of the Jordan were cut off from the face of the Box of the Covenant of Yahweh. In its crossing over in the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר נִכְרְת֜וּ מֵימֵ֤י הַיַּרְדֵּן֙ מִפְּנֵי֙ אֲר֣וֹן בְּרִית־יְהוָ֔ה בְּעָבְרוֹ֙ בַּיַּרְדֵּ֔ן נִכְרְת֖וּ מֵ֣י הַיַּרְדֵּ֑ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry
See the discussion of this sentence in the Introduction to this chapter.
In its crossing over
Quote: בְּעָבְרוֹ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Joshua means implicitly that the priests carried the Box of the Covenant of Yahweh over the Jordan River. He is not saying that it crossed over on its own. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: [When the priests carried it over]
Joshua 4:9
under the standing place of the feet of the priests
Quote: תַּ֗חַת מַצַּב֙ רַגְלֵ֣י הַכֹּהֲנִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
See how you translated the same expression in 4:3. Alternate translation: [under the place where the priests had been standing]
to this day
Quote: עַ֖ד הַיּ֥וֹם הַזֶּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, the author is using the term day by association to refer to a specific time, the time when he was writing this book. He means that the 12 stones were still in the middle of the Jordan at the time he wrote this account of them. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or state the meaning plainly, here and for the other occurrences of this phrase in the book. Alternate translation: [right up to this time]
Joshua 4:10
And the people hurried and crossed over
Quote: וַיְמַהֲר֥וּ הָעָ֖ם וַֽיַּעֲבֹֽרוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys
This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word hurried tells in what way the people crossed over. Alternate translation: [and the people crossed over hurriedly]
Joshua 4:11
that the Box of Yahweh and the priests crossed over
Quote: וַיַּעֲבֹ֧ר אֲרוֹן־יְהוָ֛ה וְהַכֹּהֲנִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys
This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The phrase the priests indicates how the Box of Yahweh crossed the Jordan River. Alternate translation: [that the priests carried the Box of Yahweh across the Jordan]
Joshua 4:12
just as Moses had spoken to them
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֛ר דִּבֶּ֥ר אֲלֵיהֶ֖ם מֹשֶֽׁה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could put this phrase at the beginning of the verse, since it gives the reason for what the rest of the verse describes.
armed
Quote: חֲמֻשִׁ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
See how you translated the same expression in 1:1. Alternate translation: [carrying weapons]
Joshua 4:13
equipped {ones} of the army
Quote: חֲלוּצֵ֣י הַצָּבָ֑א (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [soldiers who had equipped themselves to be part of the army]
Joshua 4:14
in the eyes of all of Israel
Quote: בְּעֵינֵ֖י כָּל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the same expression in 3:7. Alternate translation: [in the perspective of all the Israelites]
all of the days of his life
Quote: כָּל־יְמֵ֥י חַיָּֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term days to refer to a specific time, the lifetime of Moses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [throughout his lifetime]
Joshua 4:18
when} the soles of the feet of the priests were lifted up to dry ground
Quote: נִתְּק֗וּ כַּפּוֹת֙ רַגְלֵ֣י הַכֹּהֲנִ֔ים אֶ֖ל הֶחָרָבָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [when the priests lifted the soles of their feet up to dry ground]
as yesterday and the third day
Quote: כִתְמוֹל־שִׁלְשׁ֖וֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the same expression in 3:4. Alternate translation: [as they had done previously]
Joshua 4:19
came up
Quote: עָלוּ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
Your language may say “went up” rather than came up in a context such as this. Alternate translation: [went up]
on the tenth {day} of the first month
Quote: בֶּעָשׂ֖וֹר לַחֹ֣דֶשׁ הָרִאשׁ֑וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-hebrewmonths
The first month of the Hebrew calendar is named Aviv. You could convert the Hebrew day and month into an approximate date on the calendar that your culture uses. However, the Jews used a lunar calendar, so if you use a solar calendar, the date will be different every year and the translation will not be entirely accurate. So you may just want to give the number of the day and the name of the month on the Hebrew calendar. You say approximately what time of year that is on your calendar in a footnote, for example, “The ‘first month’ was the month of Aviv, which is in the spring of the year, in March and April on Western calendars.” Alternate translation: [on the tenth day of the month of Aviv]
Joshua 4:21
When your sons ask their fathers tomorrow, saying, ‘What are these stones
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֩ יִשְׁאָל֨וּן בְּנֵיכֶ֤ם מָחָר֙ אֶת־אֲבוֹתָ֣ם לֵאמֹ֔ר מָ֖ה הָאֲבָנִ֥ים הָאֵֽלֶּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
If your language would not use a direct quotation inside of a direct quotation, you could translate the second direct quotation as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: [When your sons ask their fathers tomorrow what these stones are]
your sons
Quote: בְּנֵיכֶ֤ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations
Although the term sons is masculine, Joshua is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both male and female descendants. Alternate translation: [your children]
tomorrow
Quote: מָחָר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
See how you translated the same expression in 4:6. Alternate translation: [in the future]
Joshua 4:22
your sons
Quote: אֶת־בְּנֵיכֶ֣ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations
Although the term sons is masculine, Joshua is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both male and female descendants. Alternate translation: [your children]
then you shall cause your sons to know
Quote: וְהוֹדַעְתֶּ֖ם אֶת־בְּנֵיכֶ֣ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
Joshua is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: [then you shall cause your sons to know the meaning of these stones] or [then you shall cause your sons to know why these stones are here]
then you shall cause your sons to know, saying, ‘Israel crossed over this Jordan on dry ground
Quote: וְהוֹדַעְתֶּ֖ם אֶת־בְּנֵיכֶ֣ם לֵאמֹ֑ר בַּיַּבָּשָׁה֙ עָבַ֣ר יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל אֶת־הַיַּרְדֵּ֖ן הַזֶּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [telling them that Israel crossed over this Jordan on dry ground]
Israel crossed over this Jordan on dry ground
Quote: בַּיַּבָּשָׁה֙ עָבַ֣ר יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל אֶת־הַיַּרְדֵּ֖ן הַזֶּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The parents would be leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [These stones are here so that all future generations will remember that Israel crossed over this Jordan on dry ground]
Joshua 4:24
the hand of Yahweh, that it is mighty
Quote: אֶת־יַ֣ד יְהוָ֔ה כִּ֥י חֲזָקָ֖ה הִ֑יא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here, hand represents the capability and power of a person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [that Yahweh has mighty power]
all of the days
Quote: כָּל־הַיָּמִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Joshua is using the term days by association to mean “time,” since time is made up of days. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [all of the time] or [always]
Joshua 5
Joshua 5 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter begins with a notice of how the kings in the land of Canaan feared Yahweh when they heard how he had dried up the Jordan River so the Israelites could cross (5:1).
The chapter then describes how the Israelites were careful to observe the law of Moses as soon as they entered the land of Canaan. * The Israelite men were circumcised (5:2–9 * All the Israelites celebrated Passover (5:10–12)
The chapter then describes how the commander of Yahweh’s army came to help Joshua defeat his enemies (5:13–15)
Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter
Circumcision
This was a sign of the covenant that Yahweh had given to the Israelites through Moses. The book of Joshua explains why the Israelite men who crossed the Jordan River had not yet been circumcised. Fulfilling this sign of the covenant was an important expression of how the Israelites would obey the whole law of Moses when they settled in the land of Canaan. It also affirmed the identity of Israel as a nation. Yahweh said that by having the Israelite men circumcised, he had removed “the disgrace of Egypt.” In Numbers 22:5, King Balak referred to the Israelites simply as “a people went out from Egypt,” in other words, a horde of runaway Egyptian slaves. Now the Israelites were being clearly constituted as a distinct people group with their own laws and customs as commanded by Yahweh. (See: circumcise, circumcised, circumcision, uncircumcised, uncircumcision)
Translation Issues in This Chapter
“a man … standing in front of him”
The author uses the expression “a man” to describe the figure who appears to Joshua in in 5:13, but in the next verse this figure explains that he is “the prince of the army of Yahweh.” So this is actually not a human being but more likely an angel. The author uses the phrase “a man” because that was what Joshua thought he was at first. Since this figure identifies himself in the next verse, you do not need to say anything such as “an angel who looked like a man” in 5:13 in your translation.
Joshua 5:1
And it happened that
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory
The author is using this phrase to introduce what happened at the end of the story of the Israelites crossing the Jordan River. Your language may have its own way of presenting such information.
the Amorite … the Canaanite
Quote: הָאֱמֹרִ֡י & הַֽכְּנַעֲנִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
The author is not referring to a specific Amorite or Canaanite. He means those people groups in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [the Amorites … the Canaanites]
from the face of … from the face of
Quote: מִפְּנֵ֥י & מִפְּנֵ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See the Introduction to Judges for a discussion of the phrase “to the face of.” Alternate translation: [before … because of]
then their heart melted, and a spirit was no longer in them
Quote: וַיִּמַּ֣ס לְבָבָ֗ם וְלֹא־הָ֨יָה בָ֥ם עוֹד֙ ר֔וּחַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the similar expressions in 2:11. Alternate translation: [then they became very afraid in their hearts and they were not able to resist]
Joshua 5:2
At that time
Quote: בָּעֵ֣ת הַהִ֗יא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent
The author is using this phrase to introduce a new event in the story. Use a word, phrase, or other method in your language that is natural for introducing a new event.
knives of flint
Quote: חַֽרְב֣וֹת צֻרִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
The word flint describes a type of hard stone. If your readers would not be familiar with this type of stone, you could use the name of something similar in your area or you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: [knives of sharpened stone] or [knives with blades made of stone]
and again, circumcise the sons of Israel a second time
Quote: וְשׁ֛וּב מֹ֥ל אֶת־בְּנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל שֵׁנִֽית (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This does not mean that these men had already been circumcised once and that Yahweh wanted Joshua to circumcise each of them for a second time. Rather, as 5:4 explains, the previous generation of male Israelites had been circumcised, but they had died in the wilderness; the current generation of Israelite males had not yet been circumcised. Alternate translation: [and do a second general circumcision of all Israelite males, for this generation]
a second time
Quote: שֵׁנִֽית (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use a cardinal number here or an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: [for time number two]
Joshua 5:3
And he circumcised
Quote: וַיָּ֨מָל֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
There were over 600,000 males, so the author is using Joshua, who was in charge of this task, to represent the many people who were necessarily involved. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: [And he and other Israelite leaders circumcised]
Gibeath Haaraloth
Quote: גִּבְעַ֖ת הָעֲרָלֽוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate
Gibeath Haaraloth is the name that the Israelites gave to the place where they held this second general circumcision ceremony. The name commemorates the Israelites rededicating themselves to Yahweh. In your translation you could spell it the way it sounds in your language, or you could use a word or phrase from your language that expresses the meaning of this name. Alternate translation: [the Hill of the Foreskins]
Joshua 5:4
having come out … in their coming out
Quote: הַיֹּצֵא֩ & בְּצֵאתָ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
In a context such as this, your language may say “having gone” and “in their going out” rather than having come and in their coming out. Use whichever is more natural, here and in the next two verses.
Joshua 5:5
For all of the people having come out were circumcised, but all the people born
Quote: כִּֽי־מֻלִ֣ים הָי֔וּ כָּל־הָעָ֖ם הַיֹּֽצְאִ֑ים וְכָל־הָ֠עָם הַיִּלֹּדִ֨ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
There is a contrasting relationship between these two clauses. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a connecting word or phrase on the first clause rather than on the second one. Alternate translation: [While all of the people having come out were circumcised, all the people born]
all of the people having come out were circumcised
Quote: מֻלִ֣ים הָי֔וּ כָּל־הָעָ֖ם הַיֹּֽצְאִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [someone had circumcised all the people who came out]
the people … the people
Quote: הָעָ֖ם & הָ֠עָם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
In this verse, the expression the people means “the males.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: [the males … the males]
they did not circumcise
Quote: לֹא־מָֽלוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Here, they is an indefinite pronoun that does not have a specific referent in the immediate context. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this with a different expression that does not use an indefinite pronoun. Alternate translation: [had not been circumcised] or [no one had circumcised]
Joshua 5:6
For the sons of Israel had walked in the wilderness 40 years, until the finishing of all of the nation of the men of war having come out from Egypt, because they had not listened to the voice of Yahweh
Quote: כִּ֣י ׀ אַרְבָּעִ֣ים שָׁנָ֗ה הָלְכ֣וּ בְנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵל֮ בַּמִּדְבָּר֒ עַד־תֹּ֨ם כָּל־הַגּ֜וֹי אַנְשֵׁ֤י הַמִּלְחָמָה֙ הַיֹּצְאִ֣ים מִמִּצְרַ֔יִם אֲשֶׁ֥ר לֹֽא־שָׁמְע֖וּ בְּק֣וֹל יְהוָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because they had not listened to the voice of Yahweh, the sons of Israel had walked in the wilderness 40 years, until the finishing of all of the nation of the men of war having come out from Egypt]
the nation of the men of war
Quote: הַגּ֜וֹי אַנְשֵׁ֤י הַמִּלְחָמָה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author seems to be speaking as if these men of war were a nation of their own. In this language and culture, people sometimes used the term “nation” to mean “army,” as in Joel 1:6, for example. Alternate translation: [the men of war in the army]
they had not listened to the voice of Yahweh
Quote: לֹֽא־שָׁמְע֖וּ בְּק֣וֹל יְהוָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Here, the word listened means “obeyed.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: [they had not obeyed the voice of Yahweh]
they had not listened to the voice of Yahweh
Quote: לֹֽא־שָׁמְע֖וּ בְּק֣וֹל יְהוָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the voice of Yahweh by association to mean the things that Yahweh commanded by using his voice. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [they had not obeyed what Yahweh commanded them] or [they had not done what Yahweh told them to do]
to their fathers
Quote: לַֽאֲבוֹתָם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The author is using the term fathers to mean “ancestors.” If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to their ancestors]
to us
Quote: לָ֔נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
The author is addressing his listeners directly by saying us. Since the original listeners were Israelites, us would have been inclusive if he had marked that form. However, unless your readers are Israelites, they would not be included in the promises described here, which Yahweh made to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and their descendants. So it might be more natural in your language to use the exclusive form if your language marks that distinction. Decide as a team how to translate this.
a land flowing {with} milk and honey
Quote: אֶ֛רֶץ זָבַ֥ת חָלָ֖ב וּדְבָֽשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Yahweh spoke of the land being good for animals and plants as if the milk and honey from those animals and plants were actually flowing through the land. If this metaphor makes sense in your language, you may use it. If your language has metaphors that mean a land is good for producing healthy livestock and good crops, you may consider using those. If neither is the case, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [a fertile land that produces many good things]
Joshua 5:7
Joshua circumcised them. For they were uncircumcised because they had not circumcised them on the way
Quote: אֹתָ֖ם מָ֣ל יְהוֹשֻׁ֑עַ כִּי־עֲרֵלִ֣ים הָי֔וּ כִּ֛י לֹא־מָ֥לוּ אוֹתָ֖ם בַּדָּֽרֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could rearrange these three phrases so that each phrase gives the reason for the result that the next phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because they had not circumcised them on the way, they were uncircumcised. So Joshua circumcised them]
they were uncircumcised because they had not circumcised them on the way
Quote: עֲרֵלִ֣ים הָי֔וּ כִּ֛י לֹא־מָ֥לוּ אוֹתָ֖ם בַּדָּֽרֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
See how you translated the similar expressions in 5:5. Alternate translation: [no one had circumcised them yet; no one had done this on the way]
Joshua 5:8
all of the nation had finished being circumcised
Quote: תַּ֥מּוּ כָל־הַגּ֖וֹי לְהִמּ֑וֹל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author is using the term nation as in 5:6, to refer specifically to the Israelite males. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: [all of the Israelite males had finished being circumcised]
all of the nation had finished being circumcised
Quote: תַּ֥מּוּ כָל־הַגּ֖וֹי לְהִמּ֑וֹל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [the leaders had finished circumcising all of the Israelite males]
Joshua 5:9
I have rolled away the disgrace of Egypt from upon you
Quote: גַּלּ֛וֹתִי אֶת־חֶרְפַּ֥ת מִצְרַ֖יִם מֵעֲלֵיכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Yahweh is speaking as if he had actually rolled away the disgrace of Egypt from the Israelites. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [I have removed the disgrace of Egypt from you]
I have rolled away the disgrace of Egypt from upon you
Quote: גַּלּ֛וֹתִי אֶת־חֶרְפַּ֥ת מִצְרַ֖יִם מֵעֲלֵיכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of disgrace, you could express the same idea in another way. See the discussion of this phrase in the Introduction to this chapter. Alternate translation: [I have taken you out of the disgraceful situation you were in as former slaves of the Egyptians]
So one calls the name of that place Gilgal
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֞א שֵׁ֣ם הַמָּק֤וֹם הַהוּא֙ גִּלְגָּ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo
It might seem that the expression calls the name contains extra information that would be unnatural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [People call that place Gilgal] or [The name of that place has been Gilgal]
to this day
Quote: עַ֖ד הַיּ֥וֹם הַזֶּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the phrase to this day in 4:9. Alternate translation: [right up to this time]
Joshua 5:10
on day 14 of the month
Quote: בְּאַרְבָּעָה֩ עָשָׂ֨ר י֥וֹם לַחֹ֛דֶשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
It may be more natural in your language to use an ordinal number here. (The expression the month refers implicitly to the “first month” or the Hebrew month Aviv, as in 4:19. Alternate translation: [on the fourteenth day of the month of Aviv]
Joshua 5:11
and roasted {grain
Quote: וְקָל֑וּי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and grain that they had roasted]
Joshua 5:13
that he lifted up his eyes and looked
Quote: וַיִּשָּׂ֤א עֵינָיו֙ וַיַּ֔רְא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The author is using a common expression to mean that Joshua looked some distance away, since he lifted up his eyes in order to do this and he had to walk over to the man whom he saw. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [that he looked off into the distance]
and behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations
The author is using the term behold to focus attention on what happens next in this story. Your language may have a comparable expression that you could use in your translation.
and his drawn sword {was} in his hand
Quote: וְחַרְבּ֥וֹ שְׁלוּפָ֖ה בְּיָד֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and he had drawn his sword and was holding it in his hand]
Joshua 5:14
And Joshua fell on his face to the earth and bowed down
Quote: וַיִּפֹּל֩ יְהוֹשֻׁ֨עַ אֶל־פָּנָ֥יו אַ֨רְצָה֙ וַיִּשְׁתָּ֔חוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
The phrase fell on his face to the earth means that Joshua intentionally got down on his knees and touched the ground with his face. In that culture, this action was a way that a person showed great respect and reverence for someone else. If there is a gesture with similar meaning in your culture, you could consider using it here in your translation. You could also explain the significance of the gesture; the UST models one way to do that.
What {is} my lord speaking to his servant
Quote: מָ֥ה אֲדֹנִ֖י מְדַבֵּ֥ר אֶל־עַבְדּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
As a way of showing respect, Joshua is speaking to the prince of Yahweh’s army and about himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the second and first persons. Alternate translation: [What are you, my lord, speaking to me, your servant]
Joshua 5:15
Slip off your sandal from upon your foot, because the place that you are standing on, it {is} holy
Quote: שַׁל־נַֽעַלְךָ֙ מֵעַ֣ל רַגְלֶ֔ךָ כִּ֣י הַמָּק֗וֹם אֲשֶׁ֥ר אַתָּ֛ה עֹמֵ֥ד עָלָ֖יו קֹ֣דֶשׁ ה֑וּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because the place that you are standing on is holy, slip off your sandal from upon your foot]
Slip off your sandal from upon your foot
Quote: שַׁל־נַֽעַלְךָ֙ מֵעַ֣ל רַגְלֶ֔ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
Joshua removing his sandal was a symbolic action by which he showed great respect and reverence towards someone superior and acknowledged his willingness to obey him. If there is a gesture with similar meaning in your culture, you could consider using it here in your translation. You could also explain the significance of the gesture; the UST models one way to do that.
your sandal
Quote: נַֽעַלְךָ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
The prince of Yahweh’s army is not referring to one particular sandal that Joshua was wearing. He means both of Joshua’s sandals. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [your sandals]
Joshua 6
Joshua 6 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter describes the supernatural way in which Yahweh enabled the Israelites to defeat the people of Jericho and destroy that city.
Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter
Yahweh conquers
The circumstances of Israel’s victory in the battle for Jericho were very unusual. An army would not normally march around a city or shout in order to win a military battle. It was Yahweh who gave the Israelites the victory, as Joshua made clear in 6:16. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
Translation Issues in This Chapter
“devoted”
The specialized term that the ULT translates as “devoted” occurs several times in this chapter. See the discussion of that term in the Introduction to Joshua, and see the UST for an expression of its meaning in the specific contexts where it is used in this chapter.
Joshua 6:1
Now Jericho {was} shutting and {was} being shut up from the face of the sons of Israel. There was no going out and there was no coming in
Quote: וִֽירִיחוֹ֙ סֹגֶ֣רֶת וּמְסֻגֶּ֔רֶת מִפְּנֵ֖י בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל אֵ֥ין יוֹצֵ֖א וְאֵ֥ין בָּֽא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The author is providing background information that will help readers understand what happens next in the story. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.
Now Jericho {was} shutting and {was} being shut up from the face of the sons of Israel. There was no going out and there was no coming in
Quote: וִֽירִיחוֹ֙ סֹגֶ֣רֶת וּמְסֻגֶּ֔רֶת מִפְּנֵ֖י בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל אֵ֥ין יוֹצֵ֖א וְאֵ֥ין בָּֽא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
The phrases Now Jericho was shutting and was being shut up and There was no going out and there was no coming in mean basically the same thing. The author is using them together for emphasis. See the further discussion in the Introduction to this chapter. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: [The rulers of Jericho were so afraid of the Israelites that they had shut the city gates so that no one could enter, and they had shut up the people inside so that no one could leave]
Now Jericho {was} shutting and {was} being shut up
Quote: וִֽירִיחוֹ֙ סֹגֶ֣רֶת וּמְסֻגֶּ֔רֶת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [Now the rulers of Jericho shut up the people inside]
from the face of
Quote: מִפְּנֵ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See the Introduction to Judges for a discussion of the phrase “to the face of.” Alternate translation: [because of]
Joshua 6:2
See
Quote: רְאֵה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Yahweh is speaking as if he wants Joshua to See or look at something. He is actually using the term to focus Joshua’s attention on what he is about to say. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [Listen]
I have given
Quote: נָתַ֣תִּי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture
Yahweh is using the past tense in order to refer to something that he will do in the future. He is doing this to show that the event will certainly happen. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use the future tense. Alternate translation: [I am about to give] or [I will certainly give]
I have given Jericho into your hand
Quote: נָתַ֣תִּי בְיָֽדְךָ֔ אֶת־יְרִיח֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here, hand represents by association the control or power that a person would have over something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [I have delivered Jericho to your control] or [I have allowed you to defeat conquer Jericho]
the warriors of valor
Quote: גִּבּוֹרֵ֖י הֶחָֽיִל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
Yahweh is leaving out a word that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and the warriors of valor] or [along with the warriors of valor]
the warriors of valor
Quote: גִּבּוֹרֵ֖י הֶחָֽיִל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
See how you translated the phrase warriors of valor in 1:14. Alternate translation: [the valiant warriors]
Joshua 6:3
one time
Quote: פַּ֣עַם אֶחָ֑ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The context implies that they were to walk around the city one time each day. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: [one time each day]
Joshua 6:5
when they make a long blast with the horn of the ram
Quote: בִּמְשֹׁ֣ךְ ׀ בְּקֶ֣רֶן הַיּוֹבֵ֗ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession
Yahweh is using this possessive form to mean the horn that makes a blast. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning with a different form. Alternate translation: [when the priests sound a blast on the horn]
the people … the people
Quote: הָעָ֖ם & הָעָ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
In this context, the phrase the people refers to the Israelite soldiers. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: [the soldiers … the soldiers]
and the people shall go up
Quote: וְעָל֥וּ הָעָ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Here, the phrase go up refers to climbing up over the collapsed pieces of the walls to get into the city. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: [and the soldiers will climb up over the collapsed city walls]
a man in front of him
Quote: אִ֥ישׁ נֶגְדּֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Yahweh is using a common expression to mean that each of the soldiers in the army that is encircling the city should rush into the part of it that is directly in front of him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [each soldier going into the part of the city that is in front of him]
Joshua 6:7
Pass over … will pass over
Quote: עִבְר֖וּ & יַעֲבֹ֕ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The phrase Pass over is a common expression that indicates walking or moving forward. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Start walking … will walk]
and the armed {ones
Quote: וְהֶ֣חָל֔וּץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
To translate this term here and in verse 9, see how you translated the similar expression in 4:12. Alternate translation: [and the soldiers with their weapons]
Joshua 6:8
passed over
Quote: עָבְר֕וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated passed over in the previous verse. Alternate translation: [went forward] or [advanced]
to the face of Yahweh
Quote: לִפְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
As the last sentence in this verse makes clear, the author is using the name Yahweh by association to mean the Box of the Covenant of Yahweh, since it represents Yahweh’s presence with the people of Israel. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [in front of the Box of the Covenant of Yahweh]
And the Box of the Covenant of Yahweh was going behind them
Quote: וַֽאֲרוֹן֙ בְּרִ֣ית יְהוָ֔ה הֹלֵ֖ךְ אַחֲרֵיהֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author does not mean that the Box of the Covenant of Yahweh was going by itself. Priests were carrying it. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: [And the priests carrying the Box of the Covenant of Yahweh went behind them]
Joshua 6:9
behind the Box
Quote: אַחֲרֵ֣י הָאָר֔וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Here again, it is implied that priests were carrying the Box. Alternate translation: [behind the Box, which priests were carrying]
walking and blowing on the shofars
Quote: הָל֖וֹךְ וְתָק֥וֹעַ בַּשּׁוֹפָרֽוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and behind the priests who were walking and blowing on the shofars]
Joshua 6:10
the people
Quote: הָעָם֩ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
As in 6:5, the phrase the people refers to the Israelite soldiers. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: [the Israelite soldiers]
You shall not shout, and you shall not make your voice heard, and a word shall not go out from your mouth
Quote: לֹ֤א תָרִ֨יעוּ֙ וְלֹֽא־תַשְׁמִ֣יעוּ אֶת־קוֹלְכֶ֔ם וְלֹא־יֵצֵ֥א מִפִּיכֶ֖ם דָּבָ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
The phrases You shall not shout, you shall not make your voice heard, and a word shall not go out from your mouth mean very similar things. Joshua says the same thing three times, in slightly different ways, to emphasize to the Israelite soldiers and priests that they must remain completely silent until he gives them the command, Shout! If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine the phrases into one and show the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: [You must remain completely silent] or [You must remain absolutely quiet]
the day
Quote: י֣וֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Joshua is using the term day to refer to a specific time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the time when]
Joshua 6:11
And he made the Box of Yahweh circle the city
Quote: וַיַּסֵּ֤ב אֲרוֹן־יְהוָה֙ אֶת־הָעִ֔יר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Here, the word he refers to Joshua. It is implied that Joshua did not carry the Box of Yahweh around Jericho himself but rather instructed the priests do it. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: [And the priests brought the box of Yahweh around the city]
Joshua 6:13
walking, {were} walking
Quote: הֹלְכִ֣ים הָל֔וֹךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication
The author is repeating the verb walking 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: [were walking continually]
walking and blowing on the shofars
Quote: הָל֖וֹךְ וְתָק֥וֹעַ בַּשּׁוֹפָרֽוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [while the priests were walking and blowing on the shofars]
walking and blowing on the shofars
Quote: הָל֖וֹךְ וְתָק֥וֹעַ בַּשּׁוֹפָרֽוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys
The author may be expressing a single idea by using two words connected with and. While the priests actually were walking and blowing on the shofars at the same time, the word walking might be describing in what way the priests were blowing, that is, continually. Alternate translation: [blowing continually on the shofars]
Joshua 6:14
on the second day
Quote: בַּיּ֤וֹם הַשֵּׁנִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you could use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: [on day two]
Joshua 6:15
on the seventh day
Quote: בַּיּ֣וֹם הַשְּׁבִיעִ֗י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you could use cardinal numbers here. Alternate translation: [on day seven]
as soon as the dawn had risen
Quote: כַּעֲל֣וֹת הַשַּׁ֔חַר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the word dawn by association to mean the sun. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [as the sun had risen] or [right at dawn]
Joshua 6:16
the people
Quote: הָעָם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
As in 6:5 and 6:10, the phrase the people refers to the Israelite soldiers. Alternate translation: [the Israelite soldiers]
Yahweh has given the city to you
Quote: נָתַ֧ן יְהוָ֛ה לָכֶ֖ם אֶת־הָעִֽיר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture
Joshua is using the past tense in order to refer to something that Yahweh will do in the future. He is doing this to show that the event will certainly happen. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use the future tense. See how you translated the similar expression in 6:2. Alternate translation: [Yahweh is about to give the city to you] or [Yahweh will certainly give the city to you]
Joshua 6:17
a devoted thing
Quote: חֵ֛רֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
To decide how to translate the term devoted here, in the next verse, and in verse 21, see the discussion in the Introduction to Joshua. Also see how you translated the term in 2:10. Alternate translation: [something that we must destroy completely]
Only Rahab the prostitute will live, she and all who {are} with her in the house, because she hid the messengers whom we sent
Quote: רַק֩ רָחָ֨ב הַזּוֹנָ֜ה תִּֽחְיֶ֗ה הִ֚יא וְכָל־אֲשֶׁ֣ר אִתָּ֣הּ בַּבַּ֔יִת כִּ֣י הֶחְבְּאַ֔תָה אֶת־הַמַּלְאָכִ֖ים אֲשֶׁ֥ר שָׁלָֽחְנוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because she hid the messengers whom we sent, only Rahab the prostitute will live, she and all who are with her in the house]
Joshua 6:18
you, keep yourselves … you are devoting and you take … and you make
Quote: אַתֶּם֙ שִׁמְר֣וּ & תַּחֲרִ֖ימוּ וּלְקַחְתֶּ֣ם & וְשַׂמְתֶּ֞ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
In this verse, every occurrence of the word you refers to the Israelite soldiers, and so each is plural. So use plural forms in your translation if your language marks that distinction.
Joshua 6:19
it is a holy thing
Quote: קֹ֥דֶשׁ ה֖וּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Since Joshua has just described a list of things, it may be more natural in your language to use the pronoun “they” rather than it. Alternate translation: [they are holy things]
Joshua 6:20
and they blew … and they captured
Quote: וַֽיִּתְקְע֖וּ & וַֽיִּלְכְּד֖וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
In its first instance, the pronoun they refers to the priests. In its second instance, it refers to the people, that is, the soldiers. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [and the priests blew … and the soldiers captured]
and the people went up to the city, a man in front of him
Quote: וַיַּ֨עַל הָעָ֤ם הָעִ֨ירָה֙ אִ֣ישׁ נֶגְדּ֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo
See how you translated the similar expressions in 6:5. Alternate translation: [and the soldiers climbed up over the collapsed city walls, each soldier going into the part of the city that was in front of him]
Joshua 6:21
from man and to woman, from young and to old
Quote: מֵאִישׁ֙ וְעַד־אִשָּׁ֔ה מִנַּ֖עַר וְעַד־זָקֵ֑ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
When he speaks of man and woman, and also when he speaks of young and old, the author is using two things to mean them and everything in between. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [including all the people who lived there, regardless of their age or sex] or [including all the people who lived there, regardless of their age or gender]
from young and to old
Quote: מִנַּ֖עַר וְעַד־זָקֵ֑ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj
The author is using the adjectives young and old as nouns in order to describe groups of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate these words with noun phrases. Alternate translation: [from young people to old people]
to the mouth of the sword
Quote: לְפִי־חָֽרֶב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
To decide how to translate this expression here and in its other occurrences, see the discussion in the Introduction to Joshua. Alternate translation: [destroying it completely]
Joshua 6:22
Enter the house of the woman, the prostitute, and bring out from there the woman and all who {are} to her, just as you swore to her
Quote: בֹּ֖אוּ בֵּית־הָאִשָּׁ֣ה הַזּוֹנָ֑ה וְהוֹצִ֨יאוּ מִשָּׁ֤ם אֶת־הָֽאִשָּׁה֙ וְאֶת־כָּל־אֲשֶׁר־לָ֔הּ כַּאֲשֶׁ֥ר נִשְׁבַּעְתֶּ֖ם לָֽהּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
Joshua is describing one event before describing another event that preceded it. In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they happened. Alternate translation: [Since you swore to the woman, the prostitute, that you would do this, enter her house and bring out from there the woman and all who are to her]
the woman, the prostitute
Quote: הָאִשָּׁ֣ה הַזּוֹנָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants
Joshua is using the phrase the woman, the prostitute to reintroduce Rahab as a participant in the story. If your language has its own way of reintroducing participants, you can use it here in your translation.
you swore
Quote: נִשְׁבַּעְתֶּ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youdual
Since Joshua is speaking to two men, you would be dual if your language uses that form. Otherwise, it would be plural.
Joshua 6:24
And they burned with fire the city
Quote: וְהָעִ֛יר שָׂרְפ֥וּ בָאֵ֖שׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo
It might seem that the expression burned with fire contains extra information that would be unnatural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [And they burned down the city] or [And they set fire to the city]
the house of Yahweh
Quote: בֵּית־יְהוָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The phrase the house of Yahweh is another name for the tent of meeting. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly, as the UST does.
Joshua 6:25
And Joshua kept alive Rahab the prostitute and the house of her father and all who {were} to her. And she has dwelt in the midst of Israel to this day, because she hid the messengers whom Joshua had sent to spy on Jericho
Quote: וְֽאֶת־רָחָ֣ב הַ֠זּוֹנָה וְאֶת־בֵּ֨ית אָבִ֤יהָ וְאֶת־כָּל־אֲשֶׁר־לָהּ֙ הֶחֱיָ֣ה יְהוֹשֻׁ֔עַ וַתֵּ֨שֶׁב֙ בְּקֶ֣רֶב יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל עַ֖ד הַיּ֣וֹם הַזֶּ֑ה כִּ֤י הֶחְבִּ֨יאָה֙ אֶת־הַמַּלְאָכִ֔ים אֲשֶׁר־שָׁלַ֥ח יְהוֹשֻׁ֖עַ לְרַגֵּ֥ל אֶת־יְרִיחֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these clauses, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because Rahab hid the messengers whom Joshua had sent to spy on Jericho, Joshua kept her and the house of her father and all who belonged to her alive. And she has dwelt in the midst of Israel to this day] or [Because Rahab hid the messengers whom Joshua had sent to spy on Jericho, Joshua kept her alive, and the house of her father and all who belonged to her. And she has dwelt in the midst of Israel to this day]
And she has dwelt in the midst of Israel to this day
Quote: וַתֵּ֨שֶׁב֙ בְּקֶ֣רֶב יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל עַ֖ד הַיּ֣וֹם הַזֶּ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Depending on when this account was written, the word she could refer to: (1) Rahab herself. Alternate translation: [And Rahab has dwelt in the midst of Israel to this day] (2) Rahab’s descendants. Alternate translation: [And Rahab’s descendants have dwelt in the midst of Israel to this day]
Israel
Quote: יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is speaking of the Israelite people by association with the man Israel from whom they descended. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the people of Israel]
to this day
Quote: עַ֖ד הַיּ֣וֹם הַזֶּ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the same expression in 4:9 and 5:9. Alternate translation: [right up to this time]
Joshua 6:26
Cursed {is} the man
Quote: אָר֨וּר הָאִ֜ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
Joshua is not speaking of one particular man but of any man who might possibly rebuild Jericho in the future, If it would be helpful in your language, use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: [Cursed is any man]
who arises and builds
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֤ר יָקוּם֙ וּבָנָ֞ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
As in the similar expression in 1:2, here Joshua is using the word arises to mean “takes action.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [who undertakes to rebuild]
With his firstborn he will found it, and with his youngest he will set up its gates
Quote: בִּבְכֹר֣וֹ יְיַסְּדֶ֔נָּה וּבִצְעִיר֖וֹ יַצִּ֥יב דְּלָתֶֽיהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
By With and with, Joshua does not mean that the man he is describing will work together with his oldest son to lay the foundations of Jericho and work together with his youngest son to set up its gates. He means that these sons will die at the beginning and ending of the rebuilding. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [At the cost of his firstborn he will found it, and at the cost of his youngest he will set up its gates]
With his firstborn … and with his youngest
Quote: בִּבְכֹר֣וֹ & וּבִצְעִיר֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj
Joshua is using the adjectives oldest and youngest as nouns to refer to certain kinds of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [with his oldest son … with his youngest son]
Joshua 7
Joshua 7 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter describes how the army of the city of Ai, which was much smaller than Jericho, was able to defeat the Israelites because one of them disobeyed Yahweh’s command not to take any plunder from Jericho. The chapter describes how Yahweh identified that person, a man named Achan, and how the Israelites punished him by execution for what he did.
Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter
Sin brought defeat
It was a great sin for Achan to take what Yahweh had said was to be destroyed. Because of his sin, Yahweh withheld victory from the Israelites. (See: sin, sinful, sinner, sinning)
Translation Issues in This Chapter
“devoted”
The specialized term that the ULT translates as “devoted” occurs several times in this chapter. See the discussion of that term in the Introduction to Joshua, and see the UST for an expression of its meaning in the specific contexts where it is used in this chapter.
“went up”
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, Hebrew writers marked travel descriptions for change in elevation. So the author typically says “went up” when he describes how the Israelite soldiers went from Gilgal in the Jordan River valley to the city of Ai in a hilly area. If your language does not mark travel notices for change in elevation, you can translate these expressions more simply and say “went.”
Joshua 7:1
But the sons of Israel treacherously committed a treacherous act regarding a devoted thing
Quote: וַיִּמְעֲל֧וּ בְנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֛ל מַ֖עַל בַּחֵ֑רֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
In this verse, the author is providing background information that will help readers understand what happens next in the story. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.
But the sons of Israel treacherously committed a treacherous act
Quote: וַיִּמְעֲל֧וּ בְנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֛ל מַ֖עַל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry
For emphasis, the author is using a construction in which a verb and its object come from the same root. You may be able to use the same construction in your language to express the meaning here. Alternatively, your language may have another way of showing the emphasis. The idea is that one Israelite did something secret and deceptive that was a betrayal of the trust that Yahweh had placed in all of the Israelites. Alternate translation: [But the sons of Israel deceptively betrayed Yahweh]
regarding a devoted thing. … the devoted thing
Quote: בַּחֵ֑רֶם & הַחֵ֔רֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
To decide how to translate the term devoted in its two instances here and throughout this chapter, see the discussion in the Introduction to Joshua. Also see how you translated the term in 2:10 and in 6:17–21. Alternate translation: [regarding something they were supposed to destroy completely … the things they were supposed to destroy completely]
Achan, … Karmi, the … Zabdi, … Zerah
Quote: עָכָ֣ן & כַּרְמִי֩ & זַבְדִּ֨י & זֶ֜רַח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Achan, Karmi, Zabdi, and Zerah are the names of men.
the nose of Yahweh
Quote: אַ֥ף יְהוָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the nose of Yahweh to mean his anger, by association with the way that a person who is angry breathes heavily through his nose. Your language and culture may also associate anger with a particular part of the body. If so, you could use an expression involving that part of the body in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [the anger of Yahweh]
And … burned
Quote: וַיִּֽחַר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The author is speaking as if the nose of Yahweh, representing his anger, had actually burned. He means that it became very intense. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And … became very intense]
Joshua 7:2
from the east of Bethel
Quote: מִקֶּ֣דֶם לְבֵֽית־אֵ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The author is describing the location of one place relative to another in the way that is characteristic of his culture. He means that if someone were traveling from Bethel to Beth Aven, he would be coming from the east. In your translation, express this in the way your culture describes the relative location of places. Alternate translation: [to the east of Bethel]
Go up … And the men went up
Quote: עֲל֖וּ & וַֽיַּעֲלוּ֙ הָאֲנָשִׁ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo
As the Introduction to this chapter discusses, the expressions Go up and went up indicate that the Israelite spies had to move upward in elevation in order to spy out Ai. If your language does not mark travel expressions for elevation, you could shorten these expressions here and throughout this chapter. Alternate translation: [‘Go … And the men went]
Joshua 7:3
the people … the people
Quote: הָעָם֒ & הָעָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
As in 6:5 and several other places in Chapter 6, the phrase the people refers to the Israelite soldiers. Alternate translation: [the Israelite soldiers … the Israelite soldiers]
Do not make all the people weary there, because they are few
Quote: אַל־תְּיַגַּע־שָׁ֨מָּה֙ אֶת־כָּל־הָעָ֔ם כִּ֥י מְעַ֖ט הֵֽמָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because they are few, do not make all the people weary there]
because they are few
Quote: כִּ֥י מְעַ֖ט הֵֽמָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun they refers to the inhabitants of the city of Ai, not to the soldiers in the Israelite army. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [because the people who live in that city are few]
Joshua 7:4
to the face of
Quote: לִפְנֵ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See the Introduction to Judges for a discussion of the phrase “to the face of.” Alternate translation: [before]
Joshua 7:5
the quarries
Quote: הַשְּׁבָרִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate
The word translated as the quarries could be: (1) a description of a geographic feature near the city of Ai. Alternate translation: [the nearby rock quarries] (2) the name of a place. If you decide that this is the name of a place, you can spell the Hebrew word the way it sounds in your language. Alternate translation: [Shebarim]
the quarries
Quote: הַשְּׁבָרִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
A quarry is a place from which people take stones to use for building things. Normally, quarries are large and deep in the ground. If your readers would not be familiar with this type of place, you could use a descriptive phrase. Alternate translation: [the pits where people had dug stones out of the ground] or [a place where people had dug stones out of the ground]
And the heart of the people melted and became water
Quote: וַיִּמַּ֥ס לְבַב־הָעָ֖ם וַיְהִ֥י לְמָֽיִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The expressions melted and became water mean similar things. The author is using them together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [And in their hearts, the people became very afraid]
And the heart of the people melted
Quote: וַיִּמַּ֥ס לְבַב־הָעָ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
See how you translated the similar expressions in 2:11 and 5:1.
and became water
Quote: וַיְהִ֥י לְמָֽיִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The author is speaking as if the hearts of the Israelite soldiers actually became water. This is another way of saying that the soldiers became afraid. Your language may have a similar expression that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [and they no longer had any courage]
Joshua 7:6
And Joshua tore his garments
Quote: וַיִּקְרַ֨ע יְהוֹשֻׁ֜עַ שִׂמְלֹתָ֗יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
Joshua tore his garments as a symbolic act to show his grief and distress. If there is a gesture with a similar meaning in your culture, you could use it here in your translation, or you could explain what this action means. Alternate translation: [And Joshua tore his garments to express his grief and distress]
and fell on his face to the earth
Quote: וַיִּפֹּל֩ עַל־פָּנָ֨יו אַ֜רְצָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
See how you translated the phrase fell on his face to the earth in 5:14. Alternate translation: [and knelt down and touched his face to the ground]
And they made dust go up onto their heads
Quote: וַיַּעֲל֥וּ עָפָ֖ר עַל־רֹאשָֽׁם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
Joshua put dust on his head as a further symbolic act done to show grief. If there is a gesture with a similar meaning in your culture, you could use it here in your translation, or you could explain what this action means. Alternate translation: [And they made dust go up on their heads to show their grief]
Joshua 7:7
Alas, my Lord Yahweh
Quote: אֲהָ֣הּ ׀ אֲדֹנָ֣י יְהוִ֗ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations
Joshua is using the word translated as Alas to express a strong feeling of fear and distress. There may be an equivalent word or expression in your language that you can use in your translation to convey this strong feeling. If not, you could specify that Gideon said this because he was feeling fear. Alternate translation: [Oh, no! My Lord Yahweh!] or [I am afraid, my Lord Yahweh!]
bringing across, did you bring this people across the Jordan
Quote: הֵעֲבַ֨רְתָּ הַעֲבִ֜יר אֶת־הָעָ֤ם הַזֶּה֙ אֶת־הַיַּרְדֵּ֔ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication
Joshua is repeating forms of the verb bring across 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: [did you bring this people across the Jordan at all]
to give us into the hand of the Amorite
Quote: לָתֵ֥ת אֹתָ֛נוּ בְּיַ֥ד הָאֱמֹרִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated this idiom in 2:24. Alternate translation: [to enable the Amorite to conquer us]
the Amorite
Quote: הָאֱמֹרִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
Joshua is not referring to a specific Amorite. He means the Amorite people groups in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [the Amorites]
we had been content and had stayed
Quote: הוֹאַ֣לְנוּ וַנֵּ֔שֶׁב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys
This phrase expresses a single idea by using two verbs connected with and. The verb had been content tells in what way Joshua wishes the Israelites had stayed on the other side of the Jordan River. Alternate translation: [we had stayed contentedly]
Joshua 7:8
What shall I say
Quote: מָ֣ה אֹמַ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Joshua is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [There is nothing I can say]
Israel has turned the back of the neck to the face of its enemies
Quote: הָפַ֧ךְ יִשְׂרָאֵ֛ל עֹ֖רֶף לִפְנֵ֥י אֹיְבָֽיו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Joshua is using a common expression to mean that the Israelite soldiers stopped fighting and ran away from the battle. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the Israelite soldiers have run away from the enemies they were fighting]
Joshua 7:9
the Canaanite
Quote: הַֽכְּנַעֲנִ֗י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
Joshua is not referring to a specific Canaanite. He means the Canaanite people groups in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [the Canaanites]
and cut off our name from the earth
Quote: וְהִכְרִ֥יתוּ אֶת־שְׁמֵ֖נוּ מִן־הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Joshua is speaking as if the Canaanite people groups would actually cut off the name of the Israelites from the earth, as if their name were a physical part of the earth. He is using their name to represent their reputation and the memory of them, he is using the phrase cut off to mean “bring to an end” or “cause to cease,” and he is using the earth to mean the people who live on the earth. Alternate translation: [and they will make the people of the earth forget that we ever existed]
And what will you do for your great name
Quote: וּמַֽה־תַּעֲשֵׂ֖ה לְשִׁמְךָ֥ הַגָּדֽוֹל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Joshua is using the question form for emphasis. He is using Yahweh’s name to represent his reputation. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [And then people might not honor your great name!]
And what will you do for your great name
Quote: וּמַֽה־תַּעֲשֵׂ֖ה לְשִׁמְךָ֥ הַגָּדֽוֹל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Yahweh’s name represents his reputation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And what will you do to preserve your great reputation?] or [And then your great reputation will suffer!]
Joshua 7:10
Why is this, you {are} falling on your face
Quote: לָ֣מָּה זֶּ֔ה אַתָּ֖ה נֹפֵ֥ל עַל־פָּנֶֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Yahweh is not asking for information. He is using the question form to rebuke Joshua. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate these words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: [You should not be falling on your face!]
are} falling on your face
Quote: נֹפֵ֥ל עַל־פָּנֶֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
See how you translated the similar expression in 7:06.
Joshua 7:11
Israel has sinned and indeed transgressed my covenant
Quote: חָטָא֙ יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל וְגַם֙ עָבְר֣וּ אֶת־בְּרִיתִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys
This phrase expresses a single idea by using two verbs connected with and. The verb transgressed tells in what way Israel has sinned. Alternate translation: [Israel has sinned by transgressing my covenant]
Joshua 7:12
So the sons of Israel were not able to stand to the face of their enemies
Quote: וְלֹ֨א יֻכְל֜וּ בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל לָקוּם֙ לִפְנֵ֣י אֹיְבֵיהֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the similar expression “stand to your face” in 1:5. Alternate translation: [So the sons of Israel were not able to resist their enemies]
They turned the back of the neck to the face of their enemies
Quote: עֹ֗רֶף יִפְנוּ֙ לִפְנֵ֣י אֹֽיְבֵיהֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated this idiom in 7:8. Alternate translation: [They ran away from the enemies they were fighting]
Joshua 7:13
Arise
Quote: קֻ֚ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
While Yahweh does want Joshua to get up from kneeling down with his face on the ground, he is probably using the expression Arise to tell him to take action. Alternate translation: [Get going]
Arise! Consecrate the people and say, ‘Consecrate yourselves for tomorrow, because thus says Yahweh, the God of Israel, “A devoted thing is in your midst, Israel. You will not be able to stand to the face of your enemies until you remove the devoted thing from your midst
Quote: קֻ֚ם קַדֵּ֣שׁ אֶת־הָעָ֔ם וְאָמַרְתָּ֖ הִתְקַדְּשׁ֣וּ לְמָחָ֑ר כִּ֣י כֹה֩ אָמַ֨ר יְהוָ֜ה אֱלֹהֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל חֵ֤רֶם בְּקִרְבְּךָ֙ יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל לֹ֣א תוּכַ֗ל לָקוּם֙ לִפְנֵ֣י אֹיְבֶ֔יךָ עַד־הֲסִירְכֶ֥ם הַחֵ֖רֶם מִֽקִּרְבְּכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
In this verse, the author quotes Yahweh directly. Yahweh tells Joshua something he should say to the Israelites. And that includes telling them that Yahweh has said something. So there are three levels of quotation here. Use the appropriate punctuation in your language to mark these levels of quotation. Alternatively, you could translate this so that there are not quotations within quotations (see next note).
Consecrate the people and say, ‘Consecrate yourselves for tomorrow
Quote: קַדֵּ֣שׁ אֶת־הָעָ֔ם וְאָמַרְתָּ֖ הִתְקַדְּשׁ֣וּ לְמָחָ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
This is the beginning of a quotation within a quotation that continues through 7:15. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate all of it so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. The UST models one way to do that. Alternate translation: [Consecrate the people and tell them to consecrate themselves for tomorrow]
Yahweh, the God of Israel
Quote: יְהוָ֜ה אֱלֹהֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
For emphasis, Yahweh is instructing Joshua to refer to the Israelites in the third person, calling them by the name of their ancestor Israel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the second person. Alternate translation: [Yahweh, your God]
You will not be able to stand to the face of your enemies
Quote: לֹ֣א תוּכַ֗ל לָקוּם֙ לִפְנֵ֣י אֹיְבֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated this idiom in the previous verse. Alternate translation: [You will not be able to resist your enemies]
Joshua 7:14
And you shall be brought near
Quote: וְנִקְרַבְתֶּ֥ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And Joshua shall bring you near]
that Yahweh takes … that Yahweh takes … that Yahweh takes
Quote: אֲשֶׁר־יִלְכְּדֶ֨נּוּ יְהוָ֜ה & אֲשֶֽׁר־יִלְכְּדֶ֤נָּה יְהוָה֙ & אֲשֶׁ֣ר יִלְכְּדֶ֣נּוּ יְהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
For emphasis, Yahweh is speaking about himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use the first person. Alternate translation: [that I take … that I take … that I take]
Joshua 7:15
the one taken with the devoted thing shall be burned with fire, he and all that {is} to him, because he has transgressed the covenant of Yahweh, and because he has done a disgraceful thing in Israel
Quote: הַנִּלְכָּ֣ד בַּחֵ֔רֶם יִשָּׂרֵ֣ף בָּאֵ֔שׁ אֹת֖וֹ וְאֶת־כָּל־אֲשֶׁר־ל֑וֹ כִּ֤י עָבַר֙ אֶת־בְּרִ֣ית יְהוָ֔ה וְכִֽי־עָשָׂ֥ה נְבָלָ֖ה בְּיִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these phrases so that the reason for the command is placed before the result. Alternate translation: [because he has transgressed the covenant of Yahweh, and because he has done a disgraceful thing in Israel, the one taken with the devoted thing shall be burned with the fire, he and all that belongs to him]
the one taken with the devoted thing shall be burned with fire
Quote: הַנִּלְכָּ֣ד בַּחֵ֔רֶם יִשָּׂרֵ֣ף בָּאֵ֔שׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, the previous verse indicates that Yahweh is the one who will “take” or catch the person who stole the devoted things, and the context implies that the Israelites are the ones who are supposed burn the one who took the banned things. Alternate translation: [you shall burn with fire the one Yahweh catches with the devoted thing]
shall be burned with fire
Quote: יִשָּׂרֵ֣ף בָּאֵ֔שׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo
See how you translated the same expression in 6:24. Alternate translation: [shall be burned to death]
the covenant of Yahweh
Quote: אֶת־בְּרִ֣ית יְהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
For emphasis, Yahweh is speaking about himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use the first person. Alternate translation: [my covenant] or [the covenant that I, Yahweh, have made with you]
and because he has done a disgraceful thing in Israel
Quote: וְכִֽי־עָשָׂ֥ה נְבָלָ֖ה בְּיִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks
This is the end of the second-level quotation that began in 7:13. It is also the end of the first-level quotation that began in 7:10 You may wish to indicate this with closing second-level and first-level quotation marks or with some other punctuation or convention that your language uses to indicate the end of quotations.
Joshua 7:16
and the tribe of Judah was taken
Quote: וַיִּלָּכֵ֖ד שֵׁ֥בֶט יְהוּדָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The cultural context suggests that Joshua may have used lots (small, marked stones) in this process, expecting that Yahweh would control which way they fell and thus guide the identification process. Alternate translation: [and Joshua cast lots, and the tribe of Judah was taken]
and the tribe of Judah was taken
Quote: וַיִּלָּכֵ֖ד שֵׁ֥בֶט יְהוּדָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and Yahweh indicated the tribe of Judah] or [and Yahweh guided the lots to identify the tribe of Judah]
Joshua 7:17
the Zerahite … the Zerahite
Quote: הַזַּרְחִ֑י & הַזַּרְחִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The word Zerahite is the name of a clan made up of the descendants of the man named Zerah who was the great-grandfather of Achan mentioned in 7:1. Express this relationship by descent in the terms that your culture would use. Alternate translation: [the Zerahites … the Zerahites] or [the descendants of Zerah … the descendants of Zerah]
Zabdi
Quote: זַבְדִּֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the name Zabdi by association to mean his “house” or extended family, as 7:14 indicates. Zabdi was the grandfather of Achan, and Achan would have been included in his extended family. Alternate translation: [the extended family of Zabdi]
and the clan of the Zerahite was taken. … and Zabdi was taken
Quote: וַיִּלְכֹּ֕ד אֵ֖ת מִשְׁפַּ֣חַת הַזַּרְחִ֑י & וַיִּלָּכֵ֖ד זַבְדִּֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
See how you translated the similar passive expression in 7:16.
Joshua 7:18
and Achan, … was taken
Quote: וַיִּלָּכֵ֗ד עָכָ֞ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
See how you translated the similar passive expressions in 7:16 and 7:17
Joshua 7:19
My son
Quote: בְּנִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
Achan was not Joshua’s son. Joshua is addressing Achan using a polite form of address that someone of a higher status would use when addressing someone of a lower status in that culture. Use a form for addressing someone politely in your language that would be appropriate in this context.
please give glory to Yahweh, the God of Israel
Quote: שִֽׂים־נָ֣א כָב֗וֹד לַֽיהוָ֛ה אֱלֹהֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Joshua is using the expression give glory to Yahweh the God of Israel to encourage Achan to tell the truth and admit what he has done wrong. This will give glory to Yahweh by vindicating his justice that led him to allow the people of Ai to defeat the Israelites. Alternate translation: [please vindicate the justice of Yahweh, the God of Israel, by telling the truth]
please give glory to Yahweh, the God of Israel, and make confession to him
Quote: שִֽׂים־נָ֣א כָב֗וֹד לַֽיהוָ֛ה אֱלֹהֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל וְתֶן־ל֣וֹ תוֹדָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of glory and confession, you can express the same ideas with verbal forms or in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [now glorify Yahweh, the God of Israel, and confess to him]
Joshua 7:20
And like this and like this I did
Quote: וְכָזֹ֥את וְכָזֹ֖את עָשִֽׂיתִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Achan is using a common expression of his culture, like this and like this, to mean that he is about to provide exact details. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And this is exactly what I have done]
Joshua 7:21
and 200 shekels of silver and one wedge of gold, 50 shekels {was} its weight
Quote: וּמָאתַ֧יִם שְׁקָלִ֣ים כֶּ֗סֶף וּלְשׁ֨וֹן זָהָ֤ב אֶחָד֙ חֲמִשִּׁ֤ים שְׁקָלִים֙ מִשְׁקָל֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney
At that time, a shekel was a measure of weight. If it would help your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or a footnote. Alternate translation: [and about 5 pounds of silver and one wedge of gold whose weight was a little over a pound] or [and 200 pieces of silver weighing over two kilograms and a wedge of gold that weighed about half a kilogram]
And behold, they
Quote: וְהִנָּ֨ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations
See how you translated the word behold in 2:2, where it occurs with the same meaning.
And behold, they are hidden in the earth
Quote: וְהִנָּ֨ם טְמוּנִ֥ים בָּאָ֛רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, the context indicates that “Achan” did it. Alternate translation: [And behold, I hid them in the earth]
is} under it
Quote: תַּחְתֶּֽיהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Since Achan is saying that the silver is beneath the coat and the gold, it may be more natural in your language to use a plural pronoun here. Alternate translation: [is under them]
Joshua 7:22
And behold, {it} was hidden in his tent
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֧ה טְמוּנָ֛ה בְּאָהֳל֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The author is using the word behold to focus attention on what happens next in this story. Your language may have a comparable expression that you could use in your translation. Alternate translation: [And there it was! It was hidden in his tent]
it} was hidden in his tent
Quote: טְמוּנָ֛ה בְּאָהֳל֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [Achan had hidden it in his tent]
Joshua 7:23
to the face of Yahweh
Quote: לִפְנֵ֥י יְהוָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This could mean: (1) “where Yahweh could see them.” The idea is not that Yahweh did not know before where they were; he told Joshua in 7:11 that an Israelite had stolen some of the devoted things and hidden them. Rather, the idea is that this was public evidence that the Israelites had found the wrongdoer and would punish him as Yahweh had told them to. Alternate translation: [where Yahweh could see them] (2) “in front of the tent of meeting.” The phrase could be a description of where the Israelites poured … out the silver coins, coat, and gold wedge. The author would be using the name Yahweh by association to mean the place where his presence was. But this would also indicate that these things were serving as conclusive evidence against Achan. Alternate translation: [in front of the tent of meeting]
Joshua 7:24
and all Israel with him
Quote: וְכָל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל עִמּ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This phrase does not mean that Joshua also brought all Israel to the Valley of Achor when he brought Achan there. It means that Joshua and all Israel with him brought Achan and his family and possessions to the Valley of Achor. Be sure that this is clear in your translation. The UST models one way to do that.
to the Valley of Achor
Quote: עֵ֥מֶק עָכֽוֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate
The word Achor is the name of a valley. In your translation, you could spell it the way it sounds in your language, or you could use a word or phrase from your language that expresses the meaning of this name. As the next two verses explain, the word means “trouble,” and the Israelites gave that name to the valley on this occasion. Alternate translation: [to the Valley of Trouble]
Joshua 7:25
Why have you troubled us
Quote: מֶ֣ה עֲכַרְתָּ֔נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Joshua is using the question form to rebuke Achan. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: [You should not have troubled us like this!]
And all of Israel stoned him with stone. … and they stoned them with stones
Quote: וַיִּרְגְּמ֨וּ אֹת֤וֹ כָל־יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ אֶ֔בֶן & וַיִּסְקְל֥וּ אֹתָ֖ם בָּאֲבָנִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry
For emphasis, the author is using a construction in which a verb and its object come from the same root. You may be able to use the same construction in your language to express the meaning here. Alternatively, your language may have another way of showing the emphasis. Alternate translation: [And all of Israel stoned him to death … and they stoned them to death]
And all of Israel stoned him with stone. And they burned them with fire, and they stoned them with stones
Quote: וַיִּרְגְּמ֨וּ אֹת֤וֹ כָל־יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ אֶ֔בֶן וַיִּשְׂרְפ֤וּ אֹתָם֙ בָּאֵ֔שׁ וַיִּסְקְל֥וּ אֹתָ֖ם בָּאֲבָנִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events
It may be helpful to reorder the last sentence to make it clear that the Israelites burned Achan and his family after they stoned them. Alternate translation: [And after they had stoned them with stones, then they burned them with fire]
And they burned them with fire
Quote: וַיִּשְׂרְפ֤וּ אֹתָם֙ בָּאֵ֔שׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo
It might seem that the expression burned … with fire contains extra information that would be unnatural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it or use an expression that would be more natural. Alternate translation: [And they burned them up completely] or [And they set fire to their bodies]
Joshua 7:26
to this day
Quote: עַ֚ד הַיּ֣וֹם הַזֶּ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and it is there to this day] or [and it is still there at this time]
And Yahweh turned from the burning of his nose
Quote: וַיָּ֥שָׁב יְהוָ֖ה מֵחֲר֣וֹן אַפּ֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
See how you translated the phrase “the nose of Yahweh burned” in 7:1. (Here, the expression turned from means “stopped” or “ceased.” Alternate translation: [And Yahweh ceased from his intense anger] or [And Yahweh stopped being so intensely angry]
the name of that place is called
Quote: קָרָ֞א שֵׁ֣ם הַמָּק֤וֹם הַהוּא֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [people call the name of that place]
the name of that place is called
Quote: קָרָ֞א שֵׁ֣ם הַמָּק֤וֹם הַהוּא֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo
It might seem that the expression the name of that place is called contains extra information that would be unnatural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [that place is called] or [that place is named] or [people call that place]
the Valley of Achor
Quote: עֵ֣מֶק עָכ֔וֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate
See how you translated the name the Valley of Achor in 7:24.
Joshua 8
Joshua 8 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
Joshua 8:1–29 describes how the Israelites were able to defeat the army of the city of Ai and destroy that city once they had dealt with Achan’s sin of taking plunder from Jericho. Yahweh told the Israelites how to defeat the city by putting some of their soldiers in an ambush.
Joshua 8:30–35 then describes how the Israelites affirmed their covenant with Yahweh at Mount Ebal, just as Moses had told them to do.
Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter
The altar on Mount Ebal
By building an altar on Mount Ebal and writing out a copy of the law on the stones, Joshua was fulfilling what Moses had commanded the Israelites in Deuteronomy 11:26–32 and 27:1–26. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate this in a footnote.
Translation Issues in This Chapter
Did Joshua put 30,000 or 5,000 soldiers in the ambush?
Verses 3–9 seem to describe Joshua sending 30,000 soldiers to lie in ambush to the west of the city of Ai. But verse 12, which seems to be a summary of that same action, says that Joshua sent 5,000 soldiers. Interpreters explain this in different ways. Some say that verse 12 is not actually a summary and Joshua sent out two groups for two different purposes, for example, one to rush into the city and another to guard the flank of the main army or to cut off escaping soldiers. Other interpreters suggest that the original 30,000 soldiers may have realized that there were more of them than were needed for the ambush and that they could not all hide without being seen, so they returned to Joshua, and he sent back only 5,000 of them. Still other interpreters suggest that the number 30,000 could be a copyist’s error and that verse 3 should actually read “5,000.” Whatever the explanation, it is a matter of interpretation rather than translation. The Hebrew text reads “30,000” in verse 3 and “5,000” in verse 12, and we encourage you to translate the text that way.
Descriptions of relative location
In several places in this chapter, the author describes the location of one place relative to another in the way that is characteristic of his culture. He tells from what direction a person would approach a certain place from the location they were in. In your translation express this in the way your culture describes the relative location of places. For example, in 8:8, you might say “to the west of Ai” rather than “from the west of Ai.”
Joshua 8:1
Do not fear and do not be dismayed
Quote: אַל־תִּירָ֣א וְאַל־תֵּחָ֔ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
The phrases Do not fear and do not be dismayed mean similar things. Yahweh is using them together to emphasize that Joshua and the Israelite soldiers must not be afraid. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [Do not be afraid at all] or [There is absolutely no reason for you to be fearful]
and arise
Quote: וְק֖וּם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the similar expressions in 1:2 and 6:26. Alternate translation: [and get going]
go up
Quote: עֲלֵ֣ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo
As the Introduction to this chapter discusses the expression go up indicates that the Israelite army had to move upward in elevation in order to attack Ai. If your language does not mark travel expressions for elevation, you could shorten such expressions, here and throughout this chapter. Alternate translation: [go]
See
Quote: רְאֵ֣ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative
See how you translated the similar use of this word in 6:2. Alternate translation: [Look]
I have given into your hand
Quote: נָתַ֣תִּי בְיָדְךָ֗ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture
Yahweh is using the past tense in order to refer to something that he will do in the future. He is doing this to show that the event will certainly happen. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use the future tense. Alternate translation: [I am about to give into your hand] or [I will certainly give into your hand]
I have given into your hand
Quote: נָתַ֣תִּי בְיָדְךָ֗ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the same expression in 6:2. Alternate translation: [I have enabled you to conquer] or [I will enable you to conquer]
Joshua 8:2
And you shall do to Ai and its king just as you did to Jericho and its king, except you may plunder its spoil and its livestock for yourselves
Quote: וְעָשִׂ֨יתָ לָעַ֜י וּלְמַלְכָּ֗הּ כַּאֲשֶׁ֨ר עָשִׂ֤יתָ לִֽירִיחוֹ֙ וּלְמַלְכָּ֔הּ רַק־שְׁלָלָ֥הּ וּבְהֶמְתָּ֖הּ תָּבֹ֣זּוּ לָכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions
If it would appear in your language that Yahweh was making a statement here and then contradicting it, you could reverse the order of the clauses so that the exception is stated first and the thing that God required the Israelites to do is stated second. Alternate translation: [Now you may plunder the spoil of Ai and its livestock for yourselves, but otherwise you must do to Ai and its king just as you did to Jericho and its king]
Joshua 8:3
warriors of valor
Quote: גִּבּוֹרֵ֣י הַחַ֔יִל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
See how you translated the phrase warriors of valor in 1:14 and 6:2. Alternate translation: [valiant warriors]`
Joshua 8:4
See
Quote: רְ֠אוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative
See how you translated the similar use of this word in 6:2 and 8:1. Alternate translation: [Pay attention]
And all of you shall be prepared
Quote: וִהְיִיתֶ֥ם כֻּלְּכֶ֖ם נְכֹנִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and all of you shall prepare yourselves]
Joshua 8:5
at the first
Quote: בָּרִֽאשֹׁנָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj
Joshua is using the adjective first as a noun. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase, here and in the next verse. Alternate translation: [the first time] or [at the first time]
at the first
Quote: בָּרִֽאשֹׁנָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you could use an equivalent expression to express the meaning here and in the next verse. Alternate translation: [before]
Joshua 8:6
For they will say, ‘They are fleeing to our faces, just as at the first
Quote: כִּ֣י יֹֽאמְר֔וּ נָסִ֣ים לְפָנֵ֔ינוּ כַּאֲשֶׁ֖ר בָּרִֽאשֹׁנָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [For they will say that we are fleeing to their faces, just as at the first]
Joshua 8:7
And Yahweh your God will give it into your hand
Quote: וּנְתָנָ֛הּ יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹֽהֵיכֶ֖ם בְּיֶדְכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the expression “given into your hand” in 8:1. Alternate translation: [And Yahweh your God will enable you to conquer it]
Joshua 8:8
you shall burn the city with fire
Quote: תַּצִּ֤יתוּ אֶת־הָעִיר֙ בָּאֵ֔שׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo
See how you translated the similar expression in 6:24. Alternate translation: [you shall set the city on fire] or [you shall burn the city down]
according to the word of Yahweh
Quote: כִּדְבַ֥ר יְהוָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Joshua is using the term word by association to represent what Yahweh has said by using words. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [according to what Yahweh has said]
See, I have commanded you
Quote: רְא֖וּ צִוִּ֥יתִי אֶתְכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
See how you translated the similar use of the word See in 6:2 and earlier in this chapter. Alternate translation: [Pay attention and be sure to do exactly as I have commanded you]
Joshua 8:9
from the west of Ai
Quote: מִיָּ֣ם לָעָ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
As the Introduction to this chapter discusses, here and several other times in the following verses, the author describes the location of one place relative to another in the way that is characteristic of his culture. Express these relative locations the way someone in your culture would. Alternate translation: [to the west of Ai]
Joshua 8:10
to the face of the people
Quote: לִפְנֵ֥י הָעָ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See the Introduction to Judges for a discussion of the phrase “to the face of.” Alternate translation: [before the people]
Joshua 8:12
And he had taken about 5, 000 men, and he had set them {in} ambush
Quote: וַיִּקַּ֕ח כַּחֲמֵ֥שֶׁת אֲלָפִ֖ים אִ֑ישׁ וַיָּ֨שֶׂם אוֹתָ֜ם אֹרֵ֗ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This statement seems to be a reminder of what Joshua did in 8:3–9. For a discussion of why 8:3 says that Joshua sent 30,000 men to lie in ambush while this verse says that he sent about 5,000 men, see the Introduction to this chapter.
Joshua 8:13
So the people set all of the camp that {was} from the north of the city and its heel from the west of the city
Quote: וַיָּשִׂ֨ימוּ הָעָ֜ם אֶת־כָּל־הַֽמַּחֲנֶ֗ה אֲשֶׁר֙ מִצְּפ֣וֹן לָעִ֔יר וְאֶת־עֲקֵב֖וֹ מִיָּ֣ם לָעִ֑יר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory
The first sentence in this verse is a summary statement for 8:3–12. Use a natural form in your language for a summary statement at the end of one section of a story. Be sure that it is clear that this is a summary and not a description of a further action.
and its heel from the west of the city
Quote: וְאֶת־עֲקֵב֖וֹ מִיָּ֣ם לָעִ֑יר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The author is speaking of the Israelite army as if it were a foot and the soldiers who hid west of Ai as its heel. He means that those soldiers were at the edge of the force. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and the Israelite soldiers who had separated from the main force and hidden on the west side of the city]
Joshua 8:14
as soon as the king of Ai saw
Quote: כִּרְא֣וֹת מֶֽלֶךְ־הָעַ֗י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author does not say specifically what the king of Ai saw. This could mean: (1) that the king saw Joshua. The author has just said that Joshua went and spent the night in the valley near Ai, and the king may have seen him in the morning and concluded that this was the main force of the Israelite army and that he could attack and destroy it. Alternate translation: [as soon as the king of Ai saw Joshua] (2) that the king saw that the Israelite army was north of the city. This could be a more general reference to the king seeing that the Israelites had set up their main camp to the north of the city. Alternate translation: [as soon as the king saw the Israelite army]
hurried and got up early
Quote: וַֽיְמַהֲר֡וּ וַיַּשְׁכִּ֡ימוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys
This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word hurried tells in what way the men of the city got up early. Alternate translation: [quickly got up early]
his people
Quote: עַמּ֛וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
As in 6:5, the term people refers to soldiers. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: [his soldiers] or [his army]
Joshua 8:15
And Joshua and all of Israel were struck
Quote: וַיִּנָּֽגְע֛וּ יְהוֹשֻׁ֥עַ וְכָל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, the context implies that “the men of Ai” did it. Alternate translation: [And the men of Ai struck Joshua and all of Israel]
And Joshua and all of Israel were struck to the face of them
Quote: וַיִּנָּֽגְע֛וּ יְהוֹשֻׁ֥עַ וְכָל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל לִפְנֵיהֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See the section discussing the word “struck” in the Introduction to Judges and also see the section discussing the phrase “to the face of.” Alternate translation: [And Joshua and all Israel let themselves be back] or [And Joshua and all Israel pretended to be defeated before them]
Joshua 8:16
And all of the people who {were} in the city were summoned
Quote: וַיִּזָּעֲק֗וּ כָּל־הָעָם֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר בעיר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And the king summoned all of the people who were in the city]
all of the people
Quote: כָּל־הָעָם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
In this context, the phrase the people refers to the men who were able to fight. It is clear from 8:24 that other people remained in the city. Alternate translation: [all of the fighting men]
and they were drawn away
Quote: וַיִּנָּתְק֖וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and this drew them away]
Joshua 8:17
And a man was not left in Ai or Bethel who had not gone out after Israel
Quote: וְלֹֽא־נִשְׁאַ֣ר אִ֗ישׁ בָּעַי֙ וּבֵ֣ית אֵ֔ל אֲשֶׁ֥ר לֹֽא־יָצְא֖וּ אַחֲרֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives
If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this sentence as a positive statement. Alternate translation: [And every man in Ai and Bethel went out after Israel]
a man
Quote: אִ֗ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Here, the term man refers specifically to the men who were able to fight. They left these two cities to pursue the Israelite army. Older men and those unable to fight because of some physical disability probably did not leave these cities. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: [a man of fighting age] or [a man who could fight]
or Bethel
Quote: וּבֵ֣ית אֵ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The statement that the fighting men of Bethel also pursued the Israelites implicitly suggests that Bethel and Ai were allied cities. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: [or in its allied city of Bethel]
And they left the city opened
Quote: וַיַּעַזְב֤וּ אֶת־הָעִיר֙ פְּתוּחָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And they left the gates of the city open]
Joshua 8:18
I will give it into your hand
Quote: בְיָדְךָ֖ אֶתְּנֶ֑נָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the similar expression in 8:1. Alternate translation: [I will enable you to conquer it]
Stretch out with the curved sword that is in your hand toward Ai, because I will give it into your hand.” And Joshua stretched out with the curved sword that was in his hand toward the city
Quote: נְ֠טֵה בַּכִּיד֤וֹן אֲשֶׁר־בְּיָֽדְךָ֙ אֶל־הָעַ֔י כִּ֥י בְיָדְךָ֖ אֶתְּנֶ֑נָּה וַיֵּ֧ט יְהוֹשֻׁ֛עַ בַּכִּיד֥וֹן אֲשֶׁר־בְּיָד֖וֹ אֶל־הָעִֽיר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
This action was a literal sign to Joshua’s soldiers to attack Ai, as the next verse indicates, but it was probably also a symbolic indication that Ai was to be destroyed. You should retain this action in your translation. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate its meaning in footnote.
Joshua 8:19
And the ambush rose quickly from its place, and they ran
Quote: וְהָאוֹרֵ֡ב קָם֩ מְהֵרָ֨ה מִמְּקוֹמ֤וֹ וַיָּר֨וּצוּ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns
The word ambush is a singular noun that refers to a group of people acting together. That is why the pronoun they is plural. If your language does not use singular nouns in this way, you could describe this ambush as a group. Alternate translation: [And the Israelite soldiers who were hiding themselves rose quickly from their place, and they ran]
and hurried and burned
Quote: וַֽיְמַהֲר֔וּ וַיַּצִּ֥יתוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys
This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word hurried tells in what way the soldiers from the ambush burned the city. Alternate translation: [and they hurriedly burned]
and burned the city with fire
Quote: וַיַּצִּ֥יתוּ אֶת־הָעִ֖יר בָּאֵֽשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo
See how you translated the same expression in 8:8. Alternate translation: [and they set the city on fire]
Joshua 8:20
and behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֨ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations
The author is using the term behold to focus attention on what happens next in this story. Your language may have a comparable expression that you could use in your translation.
And it was not in their hands to flee here or there
Quote: וְלֹא־הָיָ֨ה בָהֶ֥ם יָדַ֛יִם לָנ֖וּס הֵ֣נָּה וָהֵ֑נָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here, hand represents the capability of a person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or state the meaning plainly. This statement seems to introduce the action that the author describes in the rest of this verse and in the next two verses, in which the soldiers from Ai and Bethel become surrounded by the Israelite soldiers. Alternate translation: [And it was not possible for them to flee here or there]
here or there
Quote: הֵ֣נָּה וָהֵ֑נָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
The author is speaking of two things in order to mean them and everything in between. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [anywhere]
Joshua 8:22
And these came out from the city to meet them, so they were in the midst of Israel
Quote: וְאֵ֨לֶּה יָצְא֤וּ מִן־הָעִיר֙ לִקְרָאתָ֔ם וַיִּֽהְי֤וּ לְיִשְׂרָאֵל֙ בַּתָּ֔וֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun these refers to the Israelite soldiers who had been hiding and who had just set the city of Ai on fire. The pronoun them refers to the Israelite soldiers who had openly attacked Ai and then pretended to flee, but then turned around to attack their enemies. The pronoun they refers to the soldiers who had come out of the cities of Ai and Bethel. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And the Israelite soldiers who had been hiding and who had just set the city of Ai on fire came out from the city to meet the Israelite soldiers who had just turned around to attack, so the soldiers who had come out of the cities of Ai and Bethel were in the midst of Israel]
so they were in the midst of Israel, these from here and these from there
Quote: וַיִּֽהְי֤וּ לְיִשְׂרָאֵל֙ בַּתָּ֔וֶךְ אֵ֥לֶּה מִזֶּ֖ה וְאֵ֣לֶּה מִזֶּ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term Israel by association to mean the Israelite army. It is not significant which instance of here refers to which body of Israelite soldiers, the one coming from the city or the one coming back from the wilderness. Alternate translation: [so they were in the midst of Israelite soldiers, some coming at them from one direction and others coming at them from the other direction]
And they struck them until he left to him no survivor or fugitive
Quote: וַיַּכּ֣וּ אוֹתָ֔ם עַד־בִּלְתִּ֥י הִשְׁאִֽיר־ל֖וֹ שָׂרִ֥יד וּפָלִֽיט (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
After referring to the Israelite soldiers as they and the soldiers from Ai and Bethel as them, the author then refers to the Israelites as he and to their enemies as him. This probably reflects the use earlier in the verse of the singular term Israel to represent the Israelite soldiers. It may be more natural in your language to use plural pronouns throughout this sentence. Alternate translation: [And they struck them until they left to them no survivor or fugitive]
Joshua 8:24
in the field, in the wilderness
Quote: בַּשָּׂדֶ֗ה בַּמִּדְבָּר֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish
By using the terms field and wilderness together, the author could be: (1) giving further information about where the field was located. Alternate translation: [in the field that was in the wilderness] (2) naming two locations where the Israelite army killed the soldiers from Ai and Bethel. Alternate translation: [in the field and in the wilderness]
and all of them had fallen
Quote: וַֽיִּפְּל֥וּ כֻלָּ֛ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is describing dying in battle by association with the word fallen, since soldiers who die in battle fall to the ground and die. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and all of them had been killed] or [and all of them had died]
Joshua 8:25
the ones falling
Quote: הַנֹּ֨פְלִ֜ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the similar expression in the previous verse. Alternate translation: [the ones who were killed]
all of the men of Ai
Quote: כֹּ֖ל אַנְשֵׁ֥י הָעָֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations
While the terms man and woman earlier in the verse have a specific sense, the masculine term men here has a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use language in your translation here that is clearly inclusive of both men and women. Alternate translation: [the entire population of the city]
Joshua 8:26
And Joshua did not turn back his hand
Quote: וִיהוֹשֻׁ֨עַ֙ לֹֽא־הֵשִׁ֣יב יָד֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes
The author is expressing a positive meaning by using a negative word together with a term that is the opposite of the action he wishes to emphasize. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And Joshua continued holding out his hand]
Joshua 8:27
However, Israel plundered for themselves the livestock and the spoil of that city
Quote: רַ֣ק הַבְּהֵמָ֗ה וּשְׁלַל֙ הָעִ֣יר הַהִ֔יא בָּזְז֥וּ לָהֶ֖ם יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
The word However is introducing a contrast. What follows the word However is in contrast to what the Israelites did to the inhabitants of Ai in the previous verse. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: [By contrast, Israel did plunder for themselves the livestock and the spoil of that city]
according to the word of Yahweh
Quote: כִּדְבַ֣ר יְהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term word to represent what Yahweh commanded by using words. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [according to the commandment of Yahweh]
Joshua 8:28
a desolation
Quote: שְׁמָמָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of desolation, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [a desolate place]
Joshua 8:29
to this day
Quote: עַ֖ד הַיּ֥וֹם הַזֶּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be clearer in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: [that remains until this day] or [that is still there at the present time]
Joshua 8:30
Then
Quote: אָ֣ז (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential
The word Then indicates that the event the story will now relate came after the event it has just described. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could show this relationship by using a fuller phrase. Alternate translation: [After that] or [After raising a great pile of stones over the corpse of the king of Ai]
Joshua 8:31
as written in the book of the law of Moses
Quote: כַּכָּתוּב֙ בְּסֵ֨פֶר֙ תּוֹרַ֣ת מֹשֶׁ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [as the book of the law of Moses says] or [as Moses wrote in his book of the law]
over which one has not wielded an iron tool
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֛ר לֹֽא־הֵנִ֥יף עֲלֵיהֶ֖ן בַּרְזֶ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The author is quoting Yahweh’s words to Moses in Exodus 20:25 where Yahweh uses the first part of a process to mean that entire process. Picking up an iron tool and holding it over a stone is the first step in using that tool to shape the stone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [which no one has used an iron tool to shape]
Joshua 8:33
from here and from there at the Box
Quote: מִזֶּ֣ה ׀ וּמִזֶּ֣ה ׀ לָאָר֡וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
As the Introduction to this chapter discusses, the author is describing the location of one place relative to another in the way that is characteristic of his culture. Alternate translation: [on both sides of the Box] or [on either side of the Box]
half of him … and half of him
Quote: חֶצְיוֹ֙ & וְהַֽחֶצְי֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun him in both instances refers to Israel, which means all of the Israelites. It may be more natural in your language to use plural pronouns. Alternate translation: [half of them … and half of them]
at the first
Quote: בָּרִאשֹׁנָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj
The author is using the adjective first as a noun. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [when he first delivered the law]
Joshua 8:34
written
Quote: הַכָּת֖וּב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [that Moses had written]
Joshua 8:35
There was not a word from all that Moses had commanded that Joshua did not read
Quote: לֹֽא־הָיָ֣ה דָבָ֔ר מִכֹּ֖ל אֲשֶׁר־צִוָּ֣ה מֹשֶׁ֑ה אֲשֶׁ֨ר לֹֽא־קָרָ֜א יְהוֹשֻׁ֗עַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives
If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a positive expression to translate this double negative expression. Alternate translation: [Joshua read every word that Moses had commanded]
and the women, and the children, and the sojourners
Quote: וְהַנָּשִׁ֣ים וְהַטַּ֔ף וְהַגֵּ֖ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author is making clear that on this occasion the assembly of Israel did not consist only of male representatives of tribes or clans or extended families, but that it also included women and children and sojourners. If it would be clearer in your language, you could indicate this explicitly in your translation. Alternate translation: [including all of the women and children and all of the sojourners]
Joshua 9
Joshua 9 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter describes how the people of the city of Gibeon deceived the Israelites into making a peace treaty with them.
Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter
How the Israelites were deceived
The Israelites were deceived because “they did not ask the mouth of Yahweh” (9:14), that is, they did not ask Yahweh for guidance. Instead of consulting Yahweh, they reached conclusions of their own based on what they considered to be reasonable in light of the evidence they had. The Bible says instead, in Proverbs 3:5 “Trust in Yahweh with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” (See: inquire, inquiries)
The Hivites
In 3:10, the Israelites are given a list of the nations that they are told to dispossess from the land. This list includes the Hivites. In 9:1-2, the author of Joshua records that when the kings on the west side of the Jordan River heard what the Israelites had done to Ai, they made an agreement to fight against the Israelites. The list in 9:2 of kings who agreed to fight against the Israelites includes “the Hivite.” The author records in 9:3-4 that when “those who dwelled in Gibeon heard what Joshua had done to Jericho and to the Ai … they … acted with cunning.” The author then records in 9:7 that those who dwelled in Gibeon were “Hivite.” The Hivite nation consisted of multiple people groups, of whom the Gibeonites were just one. This is why the author could say in 9:1-2 that among the kings who gathered to fight the Israelites were Hivites and also say that the Gibeonites were Hivites.
“Cut a covenant”
The phrase “cut a covenant” occurs several times in this chapter. It means “make a covenant.” The word “cut” is used because in some covenant ceremonies, the participants would cut up animals and then walk between the pieces. This was to indicate, “If I break this covenant, may I be destroyed in this same way.” It is not necessary to understand this background to covenant ceremonies in order to understand the action in this chapter, so you do not have to use the term “cut” in your translation. You could simply say “make,” or you could use an expression from your own language and culture.
Joshua 9:1
were} on the other side of the Jordan
Quote: בְּעֵ֨בֶר הַיַּרְדֵּ֜ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The description that follows indicates that by the other side of the Jordan, the author means the side opposite to the one from which the Israelites approached the land of Canaan. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [were on the west side of the Jordan River]
the Hittite and the Amorite, the Canaanite, the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite
Quote: הַֽחִתִּי֙ וְהָ֣אֱמֹרִ֔י הַֽכְּנַעֲנִי֙ הַפְּרִזִּ֔י הַחִוִּ֖י וְהַיְבוּסִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
The author is not referring to specific individuals. He is describing the people groups that these kings ruled. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using plural forms. Alternate translation: [that is, the kings of the Hittites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites]
Joshua 9:2
as one mouth
Quote: פֶּ֖ה אֶחָֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The author is using a common expression of his culture, as one mouth, to mean “by unanimous agreement.” (All the kings said the same thing, that they would fight the Israelites, so it was as if together they only had one mouth.) If it would be clearer in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [by unanimous agreement]
Joshua 9:4
And they acted, they also, with cunning
Quote: וַיַּעֲשׂ֤וּ גַם־הֵ֨מָּה֙ בְּעָרְמָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast
The word also does not indicate that the other kings had acted with cunning and the people of Gibeon did the same. Rather, the idea is that the other kings acted by joining forces to fight the Israelites, and the people of Gibeon also acted, but with cunning rather than by fighting. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And they also took action, but unlike the other kings, they did not prepare to fight; they used cunning]
with cunning
Quote: בְּעָרְמָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of cunning, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [craftily]
Joshua 9:5
crumbs
Quote: נִקֻּדִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This word could mean (1) crumbs, as in the ULT, here and in 9:12. (2) moldy. Alternate translation: [moldy]
Joshua 9:6
a man of Israel
Quote: אִ֣ישׁ יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns
The author is not referring to a specific man. He means the men of Israel in general and, as verses 15 and 18–21 indicate, most likely the leaders of Israel. Alternate translation: [the leaders of Israel]
and now
Quote: וְעַתָּ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated in 1:2 this expression that people of this time used to introduce the main business of a message.
cut a covenant with us
Quote: כִּרְתוּ־לָ֥נוּ בְרִֽית (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See the discussion of this phrase in the Introduction to this chapter. Alternate translation: [make a covenant with us]
Joshua 9:7
a man of Israel
Quote: אִֽישׁ־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
See how you translated the same expression in the previous verse. Alternate translation: [the leaders of Israel]
the Hivite
Quote: הַחִוִּ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
The author is not referring to one Hivite. He means the Gibeonite messengers, who were Hivites. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [these Hivites] or [the Hivites]
Then how can I cut a covenant with you
Quote: וְאֵ֖יךְ אֶֽכְרָת־לְךָ֥ בְרִֽית (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The Israelite leaders are using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [In that case, we could not cut a covenant with you!]
Joshua 9:8
We {are} your servants
Quote: עֲבָדֶ֣יךָ אֲנָ֑חְנוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
By saying We are your servants, the Gibeonites do not mean that they are willing to become slaves, such as they eventually do become in this episode. Rather, they are agreeing to let Joshua be their ruler. They mean implicitly that they will accept the terms he specifies, such as paying tribute. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [We are willing to serve you as our ruler]
Joshua 9:9
Your servants have come from a very distant land because of the name of Yahweh your God
Quote: מֵאֶ֨רֶץ רְחוֹקָ֤ה מְאֹד֙ בָּ֣אוּ עֲבָדֶ֔יךָ לְשֵׁ֖ם יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהֶ֑יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because of the name of Yahweh your God, your servants have come from a very distant land]
Your servants
Quote: עֲבָדֶ֔יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
To show respect to Joshua, the Gibeonites are speaking about themselves in the third person. They are not assuming that he has already agreed to let them serve him as their ruler. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [We, your servants]
because of the name of Yahweh
Quote: לְשֵׁ֖ם יְהוָ֣ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here, as in 7:9, Yahweh’s name represents his reputation. Alternate translation: [because of the reputation of Yahweh]
Joshua 9:10
was} in Ashtaroth
Quote: בְּעַשְׁתָּרֽוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The word Ashtaroth is the name of the capital city of Bashan. If you have already translated the book of Deuteronomy, see how you translated this name in Deuteronomy 1:4.
Joshua 9:11
saying, ‘Take provisions in your hand for the road and go to meet them. And you shall say to them, “We are your servants. And now, cut a covenant for us
Quote: לֵאמֹ֗ר קְח֨וּ בְיֶדְכֶ֤ם צֵידָה֙ לַדֶּ֔רֶךְ וּלְכ֖וּ לִקְרָאתָ֑ם וַאֲמַרְתֶּ֤ם אֲלֵיהֶם֙ עַבְדֵיכֶ֣ם אֲנַ֔חְנוּ וְעַתָּ֖ה כִּרְתוּ־לָ֥נוּ בְרִֽית (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks
There are three levels of quotation here. The men sent from Gibeon are speaking (level 1) and quoting their people (level 2) telling them what to tell the Israelites (level 3). Use the appropriate punctuation in your language to mark these levels of quotation. Alternatively, you could translate this so that there is not a third-level quotation (see the Quotes within Quotes note). Alternate translation: [telling us that we we should take provisions in our hand for the road and go to meet you and tell you that we are your servants and that we want you to cut a covenant with us]
saying, ‘Take provisions in your hand for the road and go to meet them. And you shall say to them
Quote: לֵאמֹ֗ר קְח֨וּ בְיֶדְכֶ֤ם צֵידָה֙ לַדֶּ֔רֶךְ וּלְכ֖וּ לִקְרָאתָ֑ם וַאֲמַרְתֶּ֤ם אֲלֵיהֶם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
If your language would not use a direct quotation inside of a direct quotation, you could translate the second direct quotation as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: [telling us to take provisions in our hand for the road and go to meet you and say to you]
in your hand
Quote: בְיֶדְכֶ֤ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The Gibeonites and their leaders were using one part of a person, his hand, to represent all of him in the act of bringing something with them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [with you]
for the road
Quote: לַדֶּ֔רֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The people of Gibeon are speaking of the men’s journey by association with the road on which they would walk. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [for your journey]
Joshua 9:12
behold
Quote: הִנֵּ֣ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations
In this context, the Gibeonites are using the term behold to mean that they want the Israelites to look at their bread. Alternate translation: [look at it]
Joshua 9:13
and behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations
The Gibeonites are using the word behold here in the same way as in the previous verse. Alternate translation: [and look at it]
the road
Quote: הַדֶּ֖רֶךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the same expression in 9:11. Alternate translation: [our journey]
Joshua 9:14
And the men took from their provisions
Quote: וַיִּקְח֥וּ הָֽאֲנָשִׁ֖ים מִצֵּידָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This could mean: (1) that the Israelite leaders tasted the provisions of the Gibeonites to see whether they were old. Alternate translation: [And the Israelite leaders tasted their provisions] (2) that they took some of these provisions out of the Gibeonites’ baggage to examine them. Alternate translation: [And the Israelite leaders examined their provisions]
the mouth of Yahweh
Quote: פִּ֥י יְהוָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The author is using Yahweh’s mouth to represent Yahweh himself in the act of guiding or giving counsel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Yahweh to guide them] or [Yahweh to counsel them]
Joshua 9:15
And Joshua made peace with them
Quote: וַיַּ֨עַשׂ לָהֶ֤ם יְהוֹשֻׁ֨עַ֙ שָׁל֔וֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of peace, you could express the same idea with an adjective or in some other way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And Joshua agreed that the Israelite people would have a peaceful relationship with the Gibeonite people]
Joshua 9:16
at the end of three days
Quote: מִקְצֵה֙ שְׁלֹ֣שֶׁת יָמִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See how you translated the similar expression in 1:11. Translate this in the way your own culture reckons time. Alternate translation: [two days later]
that they heard that they {were} near to them and they {were} dwelling among them
Quote: וַֽיִּשְׁמְע֗וּ כִּי־קְרֹבִ֥ים הֵם֙ אֵלָ֔יו וּבְקִרְבּ֖וֹ הֵ֥ם יֹשְׁבִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
The phrases they were near to them and they were dwelling among them mean basically the same thing. The author says the same thing twice, in slightly different ways, to emphasize that the Gibeonites lived close to the Israelites. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine the phrases into one and show the emphasis in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [that they heard that they actually lived close to them!] or [that they discovered that they actually lived close to them!]
Joshua 9:17
on the third day
Quote: בַּיּ֣וֹם הַשְּׁלִישִׁ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
If your language does not use ordinal numbers, but your culture reckons the present day as day one, you could use a cardinal number here. Otherwise, see how you translated the similar expressions in 1:11 and 9:16. Alternate translation: [on day three] or [after traveling for two days]
and Kephirah and Beeroth and Kiriath Jearim
Quote: וְהַכְּפִירָ֔ה וּבְאֵר֖וֹת וְקִרְיַ֥ת יְעָרִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Kephirah, Beeroth, and Kiriath Jearim are the names of towns that were subject to the king of the city of Gibeon.
Joshua 9:18
And the sons of Israel did not strike them, because the leaders of the congregation had sworn to them by Yahweh, the God of Israel
Quote: וְלֹ֤א הִכּוּם֙ בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל כִּֽי־נִשְׁבְּע֤וּ לָהֶם֙ נְשִׂיאֵ֣י הָֽעֵדָ֔ה בַּֽיהוָ֖ה אֱלֹהֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these clauses, since the second clause gives the reason for the result that the first clause describes. Alternate translation: [And because the leaders of the congregation had sworn to them by Yahweh the God of Israel, the sons of Israel did not strike them]
Joshua 9:19
We ourselves have sworn
Quote: אֲנַ֨חְנוּ֙ נִשְׁבַּ֣עְנוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns
For emphasis, the leaders are stating a pronoun, the meaning of which is already present in the verb translated as sworn. If your language can state implied pronouns explicitly for emphasis, you may want to use that construction here in your translation. Other languages may have other ways of bringing out this emphasis. The ULT does so by using the intensive pronoun ourselves.
we are not able to touch them
Quote: לֹ֥א נוּכַ֖ל לִנְגֹּ֥עַ בָּהֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
In context such as this, the word translated as touch has the sense of “harm” or “kill.” In some languages, this may sound like an understatement for emphasis, and you could express the meaning that way. Alternate translation: [we cannot do the slightest thing to harm them]
Joshua 9:20
so wrath will not be on us
Quote: וְלֹֽא־יִֽהְיֶ֤ה עָלֵ֨ינוּ֙ קֶ֔צֶף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The leaders mean implicitly that they do not want the wrath of Yahweh to be upon them, that is, they do not want Yahweh to be angry with them and punish them for breaking their oath. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [so Yahweh will not be angry with us and punish us]
Joshua 9:21
So they became hewers of wood and drawers of water for all of the congregation
Quote: וַ֠יִּֽהְיוּ חֹטְבֵ֨י עֵצִ֤ים וְשֹֽׁאֲבֵי־מַ֨יִם֙ לְכָל־הָ֣עֵדָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations
Some versions treat this phrase as a continuation of what the leaders said to the congregation. If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to make this part of the quotation from the leaders if it does. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to end the quotation before this phrase, as the ULT does.
Joshua 9:22
saying, ‘We {are} very far from you
Quote: לֵאמֹ֗ר רְחוֹקִ֨ים אֲנַ֤חְנוּ מִכֶּם֙ מְאֹ֔ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [saying that you are very far from us]
Joshua 9:23
And now
Quote: וְעַתָּ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated this expression, which introduces the main business of a communication, in 1:2 and its other occurrences.
you are cursed
Quote: אֲרוּרִ֣ים אַתֶּ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation, as in the UST: [Yahweh has cursed you]
and none of you shall be cut off a slave and hewers of wood and drawers of water
Quote: וְלֹֽא־יִכָּרֵ֨ת מִכֶּ֜ם עֶ֗בֶד וְחֹטְבֵ֥י עֵצִ֛ים וְשֹֽׁאֲבֵי־מַ֖יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives
If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a positive expression to translate this double negative that consists of the negative particle not and the negative verb cut off, which in this context means “cease to be.” Alternate translation: [and each of you shall always be a slave who hews wood and draws water]
and none of you shall be cut off a slave
Quote: וְלֹֽא־יִכָּרֵ֨ת מִכֶּ֜ם עֶ֗בֶד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and we will not cut off any of you from being a slave]
Joshua 9:24
declaring, it was declared to your servants
Quote: הֻגֵּ֨ד הֻגַּ֤ד לַעֲבָדֶ֨יךָ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication
The Gibeonites are repeating forms of the verb declared 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: [it was clearly declared to your servants]
Because declaring, it was declared to your servants
Quote: כִּי֩ הֻגֵּ֨ד הֻגַּ֤ד לַעֲבָדֶ֨יךָ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [Because people clearly declared to your servants]
to your servants
Quote: לַעֲבָדֶ֨יךָ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
To show respect to Joshua, the Gibeonites are speaking humbly about themselves in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [to us, your servants]
to you … from your faces. … from your faces
Quote: לָכֶם֙ & מִפְּנֵיכֶ֑ם & מִפְּנֵיכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
The first two instances of your are singular because the Gibeonites are addressing Joshua. The other two instances of your and the word you are plural because the Gibeonites are referring to the Israelites as a group. Use the corresponding forms in your translation if your language marks this distinction.
from your faces
Quote: מִפְּנֵיכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The Gibeonites are using one part of the Israelite people, their faces, to represent all of them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [because of you]
Joshua 9:25
And now
Quote: וְעַתָּ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the same expression in 9:23.
behold us
Quote: הִנְנ֣וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The Gibeonite men are using the term behold to focus attention on what they say next. Your language may have a comparable expression that you could use in your translation.
in your hand
Quote: בְיָדֶ֑ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here, the hand represents the power or control that a person has over someone or something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [in your control] or [under your control]
as {is} good and as {is} right
Quote: כַּטּ֨וֹב וְכַיָּשָׁ֧ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The terms good and right mean similar things. The author is using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [as is most appropriate]
in your eyes
Quote: בְּעֵינֶ֛יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The Gibeonites are using the term eyes by association to mean sight. Sight, in turn, represents judgment and perspective. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [in your perspective] or [in your judgment]
Joshua 9:26
And he delivered them from the hand of the sons of Israel
Quote: וַיַּצֵּ֥ל אוֹתָ֛ם מִיַּ֥ד בְּנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The author is using one part of the sons of Israel, their hand, to represent all of them in the potential act of killing the Gibeonites. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And he delivered them from the sons of Israel]
Joshua 9:27
to this day
Quote: עַד־הַיּ֣וֹם הַזֶּ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the phrase to this day in 4:9, where it occurs with the same meaning. Alternate translation: [right up to this time]
Joshua 10
Joshua 10 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter describes how other Canaanite kings attacked the city of Gibeon because it was a great city and they were concerned because its people had allied themselves with the Israelites. The chapter also describes how Joshua and the Israelite army went and defended the city and defeated its attackers (10:1–27).
The chapter then describes how Joshua and the Israelite army went and defeated and destroyed each of the cities whose kings had attacked Gibeon, the cities of Makkedah, Libnah, Lachish, Eglon, Hebron, and Debir (10:28–43).
The ULT sets the lines in 10:12–13 farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text because they are a poem.
Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter
Complete destruction of cities
The war that the Israelites fought against the Canaanites was different from other wars. Yahweh gave Israel special instructions about how they were to deal with the people they defeated, including completely destroying them and their cities. These were unique circumstances, and armies today are not supposed to act in the same way.
Translation Issues in This Chapter
“devoted”
The specialized term that the ULT translates as “devoted” occurs several times in this chapter. See the discussion of that term in the Introduction to Joshua, and see the UST for an expression of its meaning in the specific contexts where it is used in this chapter.
“to the mouth of the sword”
This expression occurs several times in this chapter, often in connection with the term “devoted.” See the discussion of this expression in the Introduction to Joshua, and see how the UST represents its meaning.
“come up,” “went up”
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, Hebrew writers marked travel descriptions for change in elevation. The author follows this usage in several places in this chapter. If your language does not mark travel notices for change in elevation, you can translate these expressions more simply For example, in 10:6 you might have the Gibeonites say simply “come to us” rather than “come up to us.”
Joshua 10:1
and had devoted it
Quote: וַיַּחֲרִימָהּ֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See the discussion of the term devoted in the Introduction to this chapter. Alternate translation: [and had completely destroyed it]
Joshua 10:2
that they feared greatly
Quote: וַיִּֽירְא֣וּ מְאֹ֔ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. This first phrase would then be at the end of the verse. Alternate translation: [then they feared greatly]
that they feared greatly
Quote: וַיִּֽירְא֣וּ מְאֹ֔ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun they refers both to the king of Jerusalem, mentioned in the previous verse, and to the people who lived in that city. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [the people of Jerusalem and their king feared greatly]
the cities of the kingdom
Quote: עָרֵ֣י הַמַּמְלָכָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of kingdom, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [the cities that a king ruled]
Joshua 10:4
Come up
Quote: עֲלֽוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
As the Introduction to this chapter discusses, the expression Come up indicates that these kings and their armies would have to travel upward in elevation in order to reach Jerusalem. If your language does not mark travel expressions for elevation, you could shorten such expressions here and throughout this chapter. Alternate translation: [Come]
and let us strike Gibeon, because it has made peace with Joshua and with the sons of Israel
Quote: וְנַכֶּ֖ה אֶת־גִּבְע֑וֹן כִּֽי־הִשְׁלִ֥ימָה אֶת־יְהוֹשֻׁ֖עַ וְאֶת־בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [because Gibeon has made peace with Joshua and with the sons of Israel, let us strike it]
Joshua 10:5
the Amorite
Quote: הָאֱמֹרִ֗י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
The author is not referring to a specific Amorite. He means Amorites in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form, here and in the next verse. Alternate translation: [the Amorites]
their camps
Quote: מַֽחֲנֵיהֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term camps by association to mean the armies that stayed in camps during military campaigns. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [their armies]
Joshua 10:6
Do not let your hands drop from your servants
Quote: אַל־תֶּ֥רֶף יָדֶ֖יךָ מֵֽעֲבָדֶ֑יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The men of Gibeon are speaking as if Joshua had his hands around them but might let his hands drop so that he was no longer holding them. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Do not stop helping your servants]
from your servants
Quote: מֵֽעֲבָדֶ֑יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
The men of Gibeon are speaking about themselves in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [from us]
Come up to us quickly and save us and help us, because all of the kings of the Amorite dwelling {in} the hill country have gathered against us
Quote: עֲלֵ֧ה אֵלֵ֣ינוּ מְהֵרָ֗ה וְהוֹשִׁ֤יעָה לָּ֨נוּ֙ וְעָזְרֵ֔נוּ כִּ֚י נִקְבְּצ֣וּ אֵלֵ֔ינוּ כָּל־מַלְכֵ֥י הָאֱמֹרִ֖י יֹשְׁבֵ֥י הָהָֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because all of the kings of the Amorites dwelling in the hill country have gathered against us, come up to us quickly and help us and save us]
and save us and help us
Quote: וְהוֹשִׁ֤יעָה לָּ֨נוּ֙ וְעָזְרֵ֔נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events
The author is describing one event before describing another event that would precede it. In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they would happen. Alternate translation: [and help us and save us]
Joshua 10:8
Do not be afraid of them, because I have given them into your hand
Quote: אַל־תִּירָ֣א מֵהֶ֔ם כִּ֥י בְיָדְךָ֖ נְתַתִּ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [I have given them into your hand, so do not be afraid of them]
I have given them into your hand
Quote: בְיָדְךָ֖ נְתַתִּ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture
Yahweh is using the past tense to describe something that is going to happen in the future in order to show that the event will certainly happen. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use the future tense. Alternate translation: [I will certainly give them into your hand]
into your hand
Quote: בְיָדְךָ֖ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
As the Introduction to this chapter discusses, the author is using the term hand by association to mean power or control. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language, here and in the rest of the chapter. Alternate translation: [into your power]
will stand at your face
Quote: יַעֲמֹ֥ד & בְּפָנֶֽיךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
See how you translated the similar expression in 1:5. Alternate translation: [will be able to resist you]
Joshua 10:10
to the face of
Quote: לִפְנֵ֣י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See the Introduction to Judges for a discussion of the phrase “to the face of.” Alternate translation: [before]
and he struck them {with} a great striking
Quote: וַיַּכֵּ֥ם מַכָּֽה־גְדוֹלָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry
For emphasis, the author is using a construction in which a verb and its object come from the same root. You may be able to use the same construction in your language to express the meaning here. Alternatively, your language may have another way of showing the emphasis. Alternate translation: [and he struck them severely]
Beth Horon, … Azekah … Makkedah
Quote: בֵית־חוֹרֹ֔ן & עֲזֵקָ֖ה & מַקֵּדָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The words Beth Horon, Azekah, and Makkedah are the names of cities.
Joshua 10:11
in their fleeing from the face of Israel
Quote: בְּנֻסָ֣ם ׀ מִפְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the expression from the face of by association to mean “in front of.” Since the fleeing enemies were in front of the Israelites, the Israelites were behind them, and it may be more natural in your language to express the meaning that way. Alternate translation: [as they were fleeing, with the Israelites pursuing closely behind them]
great stones from the heavens
Quote: אֲבָנִ֨ים גְּדֹל֧וֹת מִן־הַשָּׁמַ֛יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
As the author indicates later in the verse, these were not stones in the sense of rocks, but hail stones. It may be helpful to indicate this explicitly in your translation at this point in the verse. Alternate translation: [great hailstones from the sky]
Joshua 10:12
in the day of Yahweh giving the Amorite to the face of the sons of Israel
Quote: בְּי֗וֹם תֵּ֤ת יְהוָה֙ אֶת־הָ֣אֱמֹרִ֔י לִפְנֵ֖י בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The author is using a common expression to mean that Yahweh enabled the Israelites to defeat the Amorites. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [on the day when Yahweh enabled the sons of Israel to defeat the Amorites]
the Amorite
Quote: אֶת־הָ֣אֱמֹרִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
The author is not referring to a specific Amorite. He means all of these Amorites who opposed Joshua. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [the Amorites] or [these Amorites]
to the eyes of Israel
Quote: לְעֵינֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term eyes by association to mean witnessing or watching. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [to the watching Israelites]
Sun, be still over Gibeon, and moon, over the Valley of Aijalon
Quote: שֶׁ֚מֶשׁ בְּגִבְע֣וֹן דּ֔וֹם וְיָרֵ֖חַ בְּעֵ֥מֶק אַיָּלֽוֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [Sun, be still over Gibeon, and moon, be still over the Valley of Aijalon]
Sun, be still over Gibeon, and moon, over the Valley of Aijalon
Quote: שֶׁ֚מֶשׁ בְּגִבְע֣וֹן דּ֔וֹם וְיָרֵ֖חַ בְּעֵ֥מֶק אַיָּלֽוֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative
Since the author says that here Joshua spoke to Yahweh, and since Joshua by himself did not have the power to stop the sun and moon from moving through the sky, this is implicitly a prayer or request from Joshua to Yahweh. You may wish to translate it that way. Alternate translation: [Please make the sun be still over Gibeon and make the moon be still over the Valley of Aijalon] or [May the sun be still over Gibeon, and may the moon be still over the Valley of Aijalon]
Joshua 10:13
Is it not written in the Book of Jashar
Quote: הֲלֹא־הִ֥יא כְתוּבָ֖ה עַל־סֵ֣פֶר הַיָּשָׁ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The author is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [This account is indeed written in the Book of Jashar]
Is it not written in the Book of Jashar
Quote: הֲלֹא־הִ֥יא כְתוּבָ֖ה עַל־סֵ֣פֶר הַיָּשָׁ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [One can read about this in the Book of Jashar]
the Book of Jashar
Quote: סֵ֣פֶר הַיָּשָׁ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate
The Book of Jashar is the name of a book. In your translation, use the appropriate conventions of your language to indicate this. Also, you could spell the name Jashar the way it sounds in your language, or you could use a word or phrase from your language that expresses the meaning of this name. Alternate translation: [the Book of Yasher] or [the Book of the Upright One]
and it did not hurry to go {down
Quote: וְלֹא־אָ֥ץ לָב֖וֹא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys
The author is expressing a single idea by using two verbs together. The word hurry tells in what way the sun did not go. Alternate translation: [and it did not go quickly]
Joshua 10:14
And none has been like that day to the face of it or after it, for Yahweh listening to the voice of a man, because Yahweh fought for Israel
Quote: וְלֹ֨א הָיָ֜ה כַּיּ֤וֹם הַהוּא֙ לְפָנָ֣יו וְאַחֲרָ֔יו לִשְׁמֹ֥עַ יְהוָ֖ה בְּק֣וֹל אִ֑ישׁ כִּ֣י יְהוָ֔ה נִלְחָ֖ם לְיִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of the phrases in this verse, since the phrase Yahweh fought for Israel gives the reason for the result that the phrase none has been like that day to the face of it or after it describes. Alternate translation: [So Yahweh fought for Israel, and as a result, no other day has ever been like this one, to the face of it or after it, for Yahweh listening to the voice of a man]
to the face of it
Quote: לְפָנָ֣יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The author is using a common expression that describes something coming before something else in time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [before it]
for Yahweh listening to the voice of a man
Quote: לִשְׁמֹ֥עַ יְהוָ֖ה בְּק֣וֹל אִ֑ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term voice by association to mean what Joshua said by using his voice. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [for Yahweh doing what a human being asked him to do]
Joshua 10:17
And it was told to Joshua
Quote: וַיֻּגַּ֖ד לִיהוֹשֻׁ֣עַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And someone told Joshua]
The five kings have been found
Quote: נִמְצְאוּ֙ חֲמֵ֣שֶׁת הַמְּלָכִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [We have found the five kings]
Joshua 10:19
But you
Quote: וְאַתֶּם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
The word you is plural here because Joshua is addressing all of soldiers other than the ones who will stay and guard the cave. So use the plural form in your translation if your language marks that distinction. Alternate translation: [But all of the rest of you]
do not stand
Quote: אַֽל־תַּעֲמֹ֔דוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives
If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a positive expression to translate this double negative that consists of the negative particle not and the verb stand, which would be negative in this context. Alternate translation: [keep moving]
Do not let them enter into their cities, because Yahweh your God has given them into your hand
Quote: אַֽל־תִּתְּנ֗וּם לָבוֹא֙ אֶל־עָ֣רֵיהֶ֔ם כִּ֧י נְתָנָ֛ם יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֵיכֶ֖ם בְּיֶדְכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since Yahweh your God has given them into your hand, do not let them enter into their cities]
Yahweh your God has given them into your hand
Quote: נְתָנָ֛ם יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֵיכֶ֖ם בְּיֶדְכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture
Joshua is using the past tense to describe something that will happen in the future in order to show that the event will certainly happen. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use the future tense. Alternate translation: [Yahweh your God will certainly give them into your hand]
Yahweh your God has given them into your hand
Quote: נְתָנָ֛ם יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֵיכֶ֖ם בְּיֶדְכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated this expression in 6:2. Alternate translation: [Yahweh your God has delivered them into your control] or [Yahweh your God has allowed you to defeat them]
Joshua 10:20
striking them {with} a very great striking
Quote: לְהַכּוֹתָ֛ם מַכָּ֥ה גְדוֹלָֽה־מְאֹ֖ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry
See how you translated the similar expression in 10:10. Alternate translation: [striking them very severely]
the cities of fortification
Quote: עָרֵ֥י הַמִּבְצָֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of fortification, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [their fortified cities]
Joshua 10:21
in peace
Quote: בְּשָׁל֑וֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of peace, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [peacefully]
No one sharpened his tongue against the sons of Israel
Quote: לֹֽא־חָרַ֞ץ לִבְנֵ֧י יִשְׂרָאֵ֛ל & אֶת־לְשֹׁנֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The author is speaking as if people could sharpen their tongues. He means that no one used his tongue as if it were a weapon to attack the Israelites by saying something hostile to them. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [No one said anything hostile about the sons of Israel]
against a man
Quote: לְאִ֖ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author means implicitly that no one spoke against even a single Israelite. Alternate translation: [not even against any single one of them]
Joshua 10:22
Open the mouth of the cave
Quote: פִּתְח֖וּ אֶת־פִּ֣י הַמְּעָרָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author assumes that readers will understand that this means to remove the stones that were blocking the entrance to the cave. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [Remove the large stones that have been sealing the opening of the cave]
Joshua 10:24
that Joshua called to every man of Israel
Quote: וַיִּקְרָ֨א יְהוֹשֻׁ֜עַ אֶל־כָּל־אִ֣ישׁ יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
By man, the author means implicitly the soldiers who had fought in the battle. Alternate translation: [that Joshua summoned the whole Israelite army]
Come near, put your feet on the necks of these kings.” So they came near and put their feet on their necks
Quote: קִרְב֗וּ שִׂ֚ימוּ אֶת־רַגְלֵיכֶ֔ם עַֽל־צַוְּארֵ֖י הַמְּלָכִ֣ים הָאֵ֑לֶּה וַֽיִּקְרְב֔וּ וַיָּשִׂ֥ימוּ אֶת־רַגְלֵיהֶ֖ם עַל־צַוְּארֵיהֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction
Putting a foot on the neck of an enemy was a symbolic action that showed complete victory over that enemy. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. The UST models one way to do this.
Joshua 10:25
Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed. Be strong and be courageous, because Yahweh will do thus to all of your enemies with whom you {are} fighting
Quote: אַל־תִּֽירְא֖וּ וְאַל־תֵּחָ֑תּוּ חִזְק֣וּ וְאִמְצ֔וּ כִּ֣י כָ֗כָה יַעֲשֶׂ֤ה יְהוָה֙ לְכָל־אֹ֣יְבֵיכֶ֔ם אֲשֶׁ֥ר אַתֶּ֖ם נִלְחָמִ֥ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Yahweh will do the same thing to all of your enemies whom you are fighting, so do not be afraid or dismayed, but be strong and courageous]
Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed
Quote: אַל־תִּֽירְא֖וּ וְאַל־תֵּחָ֑תּוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
These two phrases mean basically the same thing. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: [Do not be at all fearful]
Be strong and be courageous
Quote: חִזְק֣וּ וְאִמְצ֔וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
These two phrases mean basically the same thing. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: [Be completely courageous]
Joshua 10:27
to this same day
Quote: עַד־עֶ֖צֶם הַיּ֥וֹם הַזֶּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and they are still there to this same day]
to this same day
Quote: עַד־עֶ֖צֶם הַיּ֥וֹם הַזֶּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the similar expression in 4:9. Alternate translation: [and they are still there right up to this time]
Joshua 10:28
He devoted them and every soul that {was} in it. He did not leave a survivor
Quote: הֶחֱרִ֣ם אוֹתָ֗ם וְאֶת־כָּל־הַנֶּ֨פֶשׁ֙ אֲשֶׁר־בָּ֔הּ לֹ֥א הִשְׁאִ֖יר שָׂרִ֑יד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
These two phrases mean basically the same thing. For help in translating these phrases here and in the rest of this chapter, see the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: [He completely destroyed everyone who was in it]
He devoted them and every soul that {was} in it
Quote: הֶחֱרִ֣ם אוֹתָ֗ם וְאֶת־כָּל־הַנֶּ֨פֶשׁ֙ אֲשֶׁר־בָּ֔הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author assumes that readers will know that in this context, the term devoted describes complete destruction. See the discussion of the term in the Introduction to Joshua. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [He completely destroyed them and every person who was in it]
He devoted them
Quote: הֶחֱרִ֣ם אוֹתָ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun them refers to the city of Makkedah and its king. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [He completely destroyed the city and its king]
and every soul that {was} in it
Quote: וְאֶת־כָּל־הַנֶּ֨פֶשׁ֙ אֲשֶׁר־בָּ֔הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The author is using part of a person, his soul, to mean the whole person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and every person who was in it]
Joshua 10:30
And he struck it and every soul that {was} in it to the mouth of the sword. He did not leave a survivor in it
Quote: וַיַּכֶּ֣הָ לְפִי־חֶ֗רֶב וְאֶת־כָּל־הַנֶּ֨פֶשׁ֙ אֲשֶׁר־בָּ֔הּ לֹֽא־הִשְׁאִ֥יר בָּ֖הּ שָׂרִ֑יד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
See how you translated the similar expressions in 10:28. Alternate translation: [And he completely destroyed everyone who was in it]
Joshua 10:32
on the second day
Quote: בַּיּ֣וֹם הַשֵּׁנִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use a cardinal number here or an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: [on day two] or [the next day]
and every soul that {was} in it
Quote: וְאֶת־כָּל־הַנֶּ֖פֶשׁ אֲשֶׁר־בָּ֑הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
See how you translated this same expression in 10:28. Alternate translation: [and every person who was in it]
Joshua 10:35
and every soul that {was} in it
Quote: וְאֵת֙ כָּל־הַנֶּ֣פֶשׁ אֲשֶׁר־בָּ֔הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
See how you translated this same expression in 10:28. Alternate translation: [and every person who was in it]
Joshua 10:37
and every soul that {was} in it
Quote: וְאֶת־כָּל־הַנֶּ֤פֶשׁ אֲשֶׁר־בָּהּ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
See how you translated this same expression in 10:28. Alternate translation: [and every person who was in it]
Joshua 10:39
Just as he had done to Hebron, thus he did to Debir and to its king, and just as he had done to Libnah and to its king
Quote: כַּאֲשֶׁ֨ר עָשָׂ֜ה לְחֶבְר֗וֹן כֵּן־עָשָׂ֤ה לִדְבִ֨רָה֙ וּלְמַלְכָּ֔הּ וְכַאֲשֶׁ֥ר עָשָׂ֛ה לְלִבְנָ֖ה וּלְמַלְכָּֽהּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Since the author has already described what Joshua did to Hebron and Libnah, it may be more natural in your language to present this information first. Alternate translation: [Just as he had done to Hebron, and just as he had done to Libnah and to its king, thus he did to Debir and to its king]
Joshua 10:40
and all of their kings
Quote: וְאֵת֙ כָּל־מַלְכֵיהֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun their refers to all the regions just listed: the hill country, the Negev, the lowland, and the slopes. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [and all the kings of these regions]
every breathing thing
Quote: כָּל־הַנְּשָׁמָה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author assumes that readers will know that the phrase every breathing thing includes human beings but not animals. He states this directly in 11:14. You could indicate this explicitly here in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [every human being]
Joshua 10:41
Goshen
Quote: גֹּ֖שֶׁן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The word Goshen is the name of a region. This is not the same region as the one called Goshen in the book of Exodus. As the context shows, this region was near the city of Gibeon, and it may have gotten its name because it contained a city called Goshen.
Joshua 10:42
And Joshua captured all of these kings and their land at one time, because Yahweh, the God of Israel, fought for Israel
Quote: וְאֵ֨ת כָּל־הַמְּלָכִ֤ים הָאֵ֨לֶּה֙ וְאֶת־אַרְצָ֔ם לָכַ֥ד יְהוֹשֻׁ֖עַ פַּ֣עַם אֶחָ֑ת כִּ֗י יְהוָה֙ אֱלֹהֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל נִלְחָ֖ם לְיִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [And because Yahweh, the God of Israel, fought for Israel, Joshua was able to capture all of these kings and their land at one time]
Joshua 11
Joshua 11 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter describes how the Israelites fought a great battle near the city of Merom and defeated a coalition of the armies of the kings who ruled cities in the northern part of the land of Canaan.
Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter
Why did Joshua not burn the cities that had been built on mounds?
Joshua 11:13 says that while Joshua and the Israelite army burned down most of the cities they conquered, they did not burn any of the cities that had been built on mounds or hills except for Hazor. This was probably because the elevated location of those cities offered them a strategic advantage. They probably already had defensive walls. So Yahweh allowed them to live in those cities, where they would be safer and more secure from attack. It is not necessary to put anything about this in the text of your translation, but you could explain it in a footnote.
Translation Issues in This Chapter
“devoted,” “to the mouth of the sword”
The author uses these expressions several times in this chapter. See the discussion of them in the Introduction to Joshua.
Joshua 11:1
when Jabin, the king of Hazor, heard
Quote: כִּשְׁמֹ֖עַ יָבִ֣ין מֶֽלֶךְ־חָצ֑וֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [when Jabin, the king of Hazor, heard about what Joshua had done]
Joshua 11:3
from the sunrise and from the sea
Quote: מִמִּזְרָ֣ח וּמִיָּ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the terms sunrise and sea by association to mean the eastern and western directions. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [from the east and from the west]
from the sunrise and from the sea
Quote: מִמִּזְרָ֣ח וּמִיָּ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
The author is speaking of two extremes in order to mean them and everything in between. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [throughout the whole land]
the Canaanite … and the Amorite and the Hittite and the Perizzite and the Jebusite … and the Hivite
Quote: הַֽכְּנַעֲנִי֙ & וְהָאֱמֹרִ֧י וְהַחִתִּ֛י וְהַפְּרִזִּ֥י וְהַיְבוּסִ֖י & וְהַֽחִוִּי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
The author is not referring to specific individuals from these people groups. He means these peoples in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using plural forms. Alternate translation: [the Canaanites … and the Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites, and Jebusites … and the Hivites]
Joshua 11:4
their camps
Quote: מַֽחֲנֵיהֶם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term camps by association to mean the armies that were camped in them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language.
and a horse and a chariot, very many
Quote: וְס֥וּס וָרֶ֖כֶב רַב־מְאֹֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
The author is not referring to a specific horse or chariot. He means horses and chariots in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using plural forms. Alternate translation: [and many horses and chariots]
Joshua 11:6
from their faces
Quote: מִפְּנֵיהֶם֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The author is using one part of people, their faces, to mean entire people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [of them]
I will give all of them slain to the face of Israel
Quote: אָנֹכִ֞י נֹתֵ֧ן אֶת־כֻּלָּ֛ם חֲלָלִ֖ים לִפְנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the similar expression in 10:12. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [I will enable you to slay all of them]
You will hamstring their horses
Quote: אֶת־סוּסֵיהֶ֣ם תְּעַקֵּ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
A hamstring is a tendon behind the knee that enables a person or animal to walk and run. To hamstring a horse means to cut this tendon to disable the horse permanently. If your readers would not be familiar with what this means, in your translation you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: [You will disable their horses permanently]
Joshua 11:7
suddenly … and they fell upon them
Quote: פִּתְאֹ֑ם וַֽיִּפְּל֖וּ בָּהֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The author is using a common expression to mean that the Israelites attacked their enemies suddenly. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and they attacked them suddenly]
Joshua 11:8
And Yahweh gave them into the hand of Israel
Quote: וַיִּתְּנֵ֨ם יְהוָ֥ה בְּיַֽד־יִשְׂרָאֵל֮ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the same expression in 10:8 and its other occurrences in Chapter 10.
Misrephoth Maim
Quote: מִשְׂרְפ֣וֹת מַ֔יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The expression Misrephoth Maim is the name of a place.
from the sunrise
Quote: מִזְרָ֑חָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term sunrise by association to mean the eastern direction. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [from the east]
until he did not leave to them a survivor
Quote: עַד־בִּלְתִּ֥י הִשְׁאִֽיר־לָהֶ֖ם שָׂרִֽיד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun he refers to Joshua. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [until Joshua did not leave any of them alive]
Joshua 11:10
and struck its king with the sword
Quote: וְאֶת־מַלְכָּ֖הּ הִכָּ֣ה בֶחָ֑רֶב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author means more than that Joshua simply struck this king with his sword. The author assumes that readers will understand that this means Joshua killed the king. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and killed its king]
the head of all of these kingdoms
Quote: רֹ֖אשׁ כָּל־הַמַּמְלָכ֥וֹת הָאֵֽלֶּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The author is speaking as if Hazor were the head of a body made up of these kingdoms. He means that it was the most important city and controlled the others. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the city that controlled all of these kingdoms**]
Joshua 11:11
soul
Quote: הַנֶּ֨פֶשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The author is using one part of a person, the soul, to mean the whole person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [person]
Not any breathing thing remained
Quote: לֹ֥א נוֹתַ֖ר כָּל־נְשָׁמָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See how you translated the similar expression in 10:40. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [No person remained alive]
Joshua 11:13
Only all of the cities standing on their mound, Israel did not burn, except Hazor alone Joshua burned
Quote: רַ֣ק כָּל־הֶעָרִ֗ים הָעֹֽמְדוֹת֙ עַל־תִּלָּ֔ם לֹ֥א שְׂרָפָ֖ם יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל זוּלָתִ֛י אֶת־חָצ֥וֹר לְבַדָּ֖הּ שָׂרַ֥ף יְהוֹשֻֽׁעַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions
If it would appear in your language that the author was making a statement and then contradicting it, you could reword this as a positive statement. Alternate translation: [The only one of the cities standing on their mounds that Joshua burned was Hazor; Israel did not burn any of the others]
their mound
Quote: תִּלָּ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns
Since the author is referring to multiple mounds (one for each city), it might be more natural in your language to use the plural form. Alternate translation: [their mounds]
all of the cities standing on their mound, Israel did not burn
Quote: כָּל־הֶעָרִ֗ים הָעֹֽמְדוֹת֙ עַל־תִּלָּ֔ם לֹ֥א שְׂרָפָ֖ם יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author does not say explicitly why Joshua did not burn such cities. For a likely explanation, see the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter. You could indicate the reason explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. The UST models one way to do that.
Joshua 11:14
They did not leave any breathing thing
Quote: לֹ֥א הִשְׁאִ֖ירוּ כָּל־נְשָׁמָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See how you translated the similar expression in 11:11. Alternate translation: [No person remained alive]
Joshua 11:15
He did not turn aside a thing from all that Yahweh had commanded Moses
Quote: לֹֽא־הֵסִ֣יר דָּבָ֔ר מִכֹּ֛ל אֲשֶׁר־צִוָּ֥ה יְהוָ֖ה אֶת־מֹשֶֽׁה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The author is speaking as if Joshua’s obedience to Yahweh were a journey from which he could turn aside. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [He did everything that Yahweh had commanded Moses]
Joshua 11:16
Goshen
Quote: הַגֹּ֔שֶׁן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of the same region mentioned in 10:41. This is not the region called Goshen in the book of Exodus.
Joshua 11:17
and struck them and killed them
Quote: וַיַּכֵּ֖ם וַיְמִיתֵֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The terms struck and killed mean similar things. The author is using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [and killed every one of them]
Joshua 11:18
Many days
Quote: יָמִ֣ים רַבִּ֗ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term days by association to mean time, since time is made up of days. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [For a long time]
Joshua 11:19
There was not a city that made peace with the sons of Israel except the Hivites, the dwellers of Gibeon
Quote: לֹֽא־הָיְתָ֣ה עִ֗יר אֲשֶׁ֤ר הִשְׁלִ֨ימָה֙ אֶל־בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל בִּלְתִּ֥י הַחִוִּ֖י יֹשְׁבֵ֣י גִבְע֑וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
The author is speaking of a city as if it were a living thing that could make peace. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [There was not a city whose people made peace with the sons of Israel except Gibeon, whose dwellers were Hivites]
There was not a city that made peace with the sons of Israel except the Hivites, the dwellers of Gibeon
Quote: לֹֽא־הָיְתָ֣ה עִ֗יר אֲשֶׁ֤ר הִשְׁלִ֨ימָה֙ אֶל־בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל בִּלְתִּ֥י הַחִוִּ֖י יֹשְׁבֵ֣י גִבְע֑וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions
If it would appear in your language that the author was making a statement and then contradicting it, you could reword this as a positive statement. Alternate translation: [Gibeon, whose dwellers were Hivites, was the only city whose people made peace with the Israelites]
that made peace
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֤ר הִשְׁלִ֨ימָה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of peace, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [that agreed to live peacefully]
The all, they captured in battle
Quote: אֶת־הַכֹּ֖ל לָקְח֥וּ בַמִּלְחָמָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author assumes that his readers will know that the phrase the all refers to all the cities he has just named, with the exception of Gibeon. You could include this information if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [They captured all these cities in battle]
Joshua 11:20
to harden their hearts to meet Israel {in} battle
Quote: לְחַזֵּ֣ק אֶת־לִבָּם֩ לִקְרַ֨את הַמִּלְחָמָ֤ה אֶת־יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The author is speaking as if these people’s hearts were something that could become physically hard. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to make them determined to fight against Israel]
in order to devote them, … in order to destroy them
Quote: לְמַ֣עַן הַֽחֲרִימָ֔ם & לְמַ֣עַן הַשְׁמִידָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author means implicitly that the Israelites would do these things. Alternate translation: [so that the Israelites would devote them … so that the Israelites would destroy them]
so that there would not be favor for them
Quote: לְבִלְתִּ֥י הֱיוֹת־לָהֶ֖ם תְּחִנָּ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of favor, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [so that no one would treat them favorably]
Joshua 11:21
and cut off the Anakites from the hill country, from Hebron, from Debir, from Anab, and from all of the hill country of Judah, and from all of the hill country of Israel
Quote: וַיַּכְרֵ֤ת אֶת־הָֽעֲנָקִים֙ מִן־הָהָ֤ר מִן־חֶבְרוֹן֙ מִן־דְּבִ֣ר מִן־עֲנָ֔ב וּמִכֹּל֙ הַ֣ר יְהוּדָ֔ה וּמִכֹּ֖ל הַ֣ר יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The author is using a common expression to mean that Joshua removed the Anakites from these places by killing them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and killed all the Anakites who lived in the hill country, in Hebron, in Debir, in Anab, and in all of the hill country of Judah, and in all of the hill country of Israel]
Joshua 11:23
And Joshua gave it for an inheritance to Israel according to their divisions, by their tribes
Quote: וַיִּתְּנָהּ֩ יְהוֹשֻׁ֨עַ לְנַחֲלָ֧ה לְיִשְׂרָאֵ֛ל כְּמַחְלְקֹתָ֖ם לְשִׁבְטֵיהֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author does not mean that Joshua assigned the land to smaller divisions within the Israelite tribes. He is using the phrase according to their divisions implicitly to mean that Joshua divided up the land among the tribes. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And Joshua divided it up among the tribes and gave it to Israel for an inheritance]
for an inheritance
Quote: לְנַחֲלָ֧ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term inheritance by association to mean a lasting possession that would be passed down to future generations. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [as a lasting possession]
And the land rested from war
Quote: וְהָאָ֥רֶץ שָׁקְטָ֖ה מִמִּלְחָמָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
The author is speaking of land as if it were a living thing that could rest. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And there was no more war in the land]
Joshua 12
Joshua 12 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter provides a summary of the kings whom Joshua and the Israelites conquered.
The ULT sets the lines in 12:2–5 farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text because they are part of a long list.
Joshua 12:1
Now these {are} the kings of the land
Quote: וְאֵ֣לֶּה ׀ מַלְכֵ֣י הָאָ֗רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
As the Introduction to this chapter discusses, here the author begins to provide background information about how the Israelites divided up the land they conquered. This background information continues through Chapter 21. In this chapter, the author provides a summary of all the territories the Israelites conquered. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.
on the other side of the Jordan, from the rising of the sun
Quote: בְּעֵ֥בֶר הַיַּרְדֵּ֖ן מִזְרְחָ֣ה הַשָּׁ֑מֶשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, here and throughout the following chapters, the author describes the location of one place relative to another in the way that is characteristic of his culture. He means here that if someone were traveling from the territories he is about to describe to the area where most of the Israelites settled, he would be coming from the rising of the sun, that is, from the east. In your translation, express this in the way your culture describes the relative location of places. Alternate translation: [to the east of the Jordan River]
from the sunrise
Quote: מִזְרָֽחָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, here the author is using the term sunrise by association to mean the direction where the sun rises. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language, here and throughout this chapter. Alternate translation: [on the east side of the Jordan River]
Joshua 12:2
Sihon, the king of the Amorite
Quote: סִיחוֹן֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ הָאֱמֹרִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [The territory of Sihon, the king of the Amorite]
the Amorite
Quote: הָאֱמֹרִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
The author is not referring to a specific Amorite. He means Amorites in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form as is modeled in the UST.
ruling from Aroer, which {is} on the lip of the wadi of Arnon, and the middle of the wadi and half of Gilead and unto the Jabbok wadi, the border of the sons of Ammon
Quote: מֹשֵׁ֡ל מֵעֲרוֹעֵ֡ר אֲשֶׁר֩ עַל־שְׂפַת־נַ֨חַל אַרְנ֜וֹן וְת֤וֹךְ הַנַּ֨חַל֙ וַחֲצִ֣י הַגִּלְעָ֔ד וְעַד֙ יַבֹּ֣ק הַנַּ֔חַל גְּב֖וּל בְּנֵ֥י עַמּֽוֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Since the expression half of Gilead summarizes what the rest of the verse says, it may be more natural in your language to put this expression at the end of the verse. Alternate translation: [ruling from the middle of the wadi of Arnon, including Aroer on the lip of the wadi, and unto the Jabbok wadi, the border of the sons of Ammon; in all, half of Gilead]
Joshua 12:3
and the Arabah unto the Sea of Kinnereth from the sunrise and unto the Sea of the Arabah
Quote: וְהָעֲרָבָה֩ עַד־יָ֨ם כִּנְר֜וֹת מִזְרָ֗חָה וְ֠עַד יָ֣ם הָעֲרָבָ֤ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Since the expression from the sunrise applies to the Arabah, it may be more natural in your language to put those expressions together. Alternate translation: [and the Arabah from the sunrise from the Sea of Kinnereth to the Sea of the Arabah] or [and the Arabah east of the Jordan River, from the Sea of Kinnereth to the Sea of the Arabah]
the Sea of the Arabah, the Sea of Salt
Quote: יָ֣ם הָעֲרָבָ֤ה יָם־הַמֶּ֨לַח֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The words Sea of the Arabah and Sea of Salt are both names for what is now known as “the Dead Sea.”
the way of Beth Jeshimoth
Quote: דֶּ֖רֶךְ בֵּ֣ית הַיְשִׁמ֑וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The author is using a common expression to refer to the direction of travel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the way one would travel to get to Beth Jeshimoth]
Joshua 12:4
And the border of Og
Quote: וּגְב֗וּל ע֚וֹג (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term border by association to mean the territory within borders. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And the territory of Og]
And the border of Og
Quote: וּגְב֗וּל ע֚וֹג (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [And the Israelites also possessed the territory of Og]
Joshua 12:5
and half of Gilead, the border of Sihon, the king of Heshbon
Quote: וַחֲצִי֙ הַגִּלְעָ֔ד גְּב֖וּל סִיח֥וֹן מֶֽלֶךְ־חֶשְׁבּֽוֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and he ruled over half of Gilead, as far as the border with Sihon, the king of Heshbon]
Joshua 12:6
had struck them, and Moses the servant of Yahweh had given it
Quote: הִכּ֑וּם וַֽ֠יִּתְּנָהּ מֹשֶׁ֨ה עֶֽבֶד־יְהוָ֜ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun them refers to the kings mentioned previously, and it refers to their land. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [had struck those kings, and Moses the servant of Yahweh had given their land]
Joshua 12:7
on the other side of the Jordan, toward the sea
Quote: בְּעֵ֤בֶר הַיַּרְדֵּן֙ יָ֔מָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, here the author is using the expression toward the sea by association to mean in the direction of the Mediterranean Sea from his location, that is, the west. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language as modeled in the UST.
from Baal Gad … Mount Halak
Quote: מִבַּ֤עַל גָּד֙ & הָהָ֥ר הֶחָלָ֖ק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
See how you translated these names in 11:17.
And Joshua gave it to the tribes of Israel {as} a possession according to their divisions
Quote: וַיִּתְּנָ֨הּ יְהוֹשֻׁ֜עַ לְשִׁבְטֵ֧י יִשְׂרָאֵ֛ל יְרֻשָּׁ֖ה כְּמַחְלְקֹתָֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See how you translated the similar expression in 11:23. Alternate translation: [And Joshua divided it up among the tribes and gave it to Israel as a possession]
Joshua 12:8
the Hittite, the Amorite, and the Canaanite, the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite
Quote: הַֽחִתִּי֙ הָֽאֱמֹרִ֔י וְהַֽכְּנַעֲנִי֙ הַפְּרִזִּ֔י הַחִוִּ֖י וְהַיְבוּסִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [these were the lands of the Hittite, the Amorite, and the Canaanite, the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite]
Joshua 12:23
the king of Goyim in Gilgal
Quote: מֶֽלֶךְ־גּוֹיִ֥ם לְגִלְגָּ֖ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The Hebrew word Goyim means “nations” or “peoples”. Most Bible scholars now think that here Goyim refers to the name of a city. You could translate this: (1) as a name, as most Bible scholars do, in which case you could put a footnote in your translation. Suggested footnote: [The Hebrew word “Goyim” means “nations” or “peoples.”] Alternate translation: [the king of the city of Goyim in Gilgal] (2) according to the meaning of this Hebrew word. Alternate translation: [the king who ruled the people groups in the region of Gilgal]
Joshua 13
Joshua 13 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
In this chapter, the author begins to describe how Joshua divided among the various tribes the land the Israelites conquered. (This description continues through Chapter 21.) This chapter summarizes the land that remained for the Israelites to conquer (13:1–7) and reviews how Moses distributed the land the Israelites conquered east of the Jordan River to some of the tribes (13:8–32).
Translation Issues in This Chapter
See Part 4 of the Introduction to Joshua for a discussion of translation issues specific to the descriptions in Chapters 13–21 of territories and their borders. These issues include: 1. The author uses the idea of “inheritance” to mean a lasting possession that would be passed down to future generations. 2. The author marks travel for change in elevation. He says, for example, “went up” or “went down” rather than just “went.” 3. The author describes the location of one place relative another in the way that is characteristic of his culture. Specifically, he says from what direction someone would be approaching a new location from a location he has already named. 4. The author often says simply “the sea” when he means the Mediterranean Sea, which he calls the Great Sea when he names it. 5. The author often uses the term “sea” by association to mean the direction of the Mediterranean Sea, that is, from his perspective, the west. 6. Similarly, the author often uses the term “sunrise” by association to mean the direction in which the sun rises, that is, the east. 7. All names in border descriptions and lists are the names of cities and towns unless otherwise indicated in the biblical text, in a note, or in the UST.
Joshua 13:1
Now Joshua had aged, he had come into days
Quote: וִיהוֹשֻׁ֣עַ זָקֵ֔ן בָּ֖א בַּיָּמִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
As the Introduction to this chapter discusses, here the author begins to describe specifically how Joshua divided up among the various tribes the land the Israelites had conquered. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.
had aged, he had come into days. … You have aged, you have come into days
Quote: זָקֵ֔ן בָּ֖א בַּיָּמִ֑ים & אַתָּ֤ה זָקַ֨נְתָּה֙ בָּ֣אתָ בַיָּמִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The expressions had aged and had come into days mean similar things. The author is using them together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [was very old … You are now very old]
he had come into days
Quote: בָּ֖א בַּיָּמִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The expression had come into days is a common expression that means that someone was very old. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [he was getting on in years]
Joshua 13:2
and all of the Geshurite
Quote: וְכָל־הַגְּשׁוּרִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Yahweh is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and all of the territories of the Geshurite]
the Geshurite
Quote: הַגְּשׁוּרִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
The author is not referring to a specific Geshurite. He means Geshurites in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [the Geshurites]
Joshua 13:3
Shihor
Quote: הַשִּׁיח֞וֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The word Shihor is the name of a river.
which {is} at the face of Egypt
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר ׀ עַל־פְּנֵ֣י מִצְרַ֗יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term face by association to mean border. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [which is the border with Egypt]
the border of Ekron
Quote: גְּב֤וּל עֶקְרוֹן֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term border by association to mean territory. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the territory of Ekron]
it shall be reckoned to the Canaanite
Quote: לַֽכְּנַעֲנִ֖י תֵּחָשֵׁ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [you shall consider this to be Canaanite territory]
it shall be reckoned to the Canaanite
Quote: לַֽכְּנַעֲנִ֖י תֵּחָשֵׁ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The Philistines and Geshurites were not Canaanites. You could indicate that explicitly in your translation if it would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [you shall consider this to be Canaanite territory, even though the Philistines and Geshurites are not Canaanites]
it shall be reckoned to the Canaanite
Quote: לַֽכְּנַעֲנִ֖י תֵּחָשֵׁ֑ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term Canaanite by association to mean territory that Yahweh wants the Israelites to conquer, since he had told them to conquer all Canaanite territory. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [you shall consider this to be territory that I want you to conquer and possess, even though the Philistines and Geshurites are not Canaanites]
the five lords of the Philistines
Quote: חֲמֵ֣שֶׁת ׀ סַרְנֵ֣י פְלִשְׁתִּ֗ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [it includes the territories of the five lords of the Philistines]
Joshua 13:4
from the south
Quote: מִתֵּימָ֞ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and the Avvites to the south of the Philistines and Geshurites]
and Mearah, … Aphek
Quote: וּמְעָרָ֛ה & אֲפֵ֑קָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, all names in border descriptions and lists, such as are found in this chapter, are the names of cities and towns unless otherwise indicated in the biblical text, in a note, or in the UST. So the words Arah and Aphek are the names of cities, as are similar words throughout this chapter.
Joshua 13:5
the Gebalite
Quote: הַגִּבְלִ֗י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The word Gebalite was the name for someone who lived in the city of Gebal, which was also known as Byblos.
from the rising of the sun
Quote: מִזְרַ֣ח הַשֶּׁ֔מֶשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the expression the rising of the sun by association to mean the east. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [to the east]
Joshua 13:6
from the face of
Quote: מִפְּנֵ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See the Introduction to Judges for a discussion of the phrase “to the face of.” Alternate translation: [before]
You shall only cause it to fall
Quote: רַ֠ק הַפִּלֶ֤הָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term fall by association to mean divide by lot. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [You shall only divide it by lot]
as an inheritance
Quote: בְּֽנַחֲלָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, here and throughout this chapter, Yahweh is using the term inheritance by association to mean a lasting possession that would be passed down to future generations. See how you translated the similar expressions in 11:23 and 12:7. Alternate translation: [as a lasting possession]
Joshua 13:7
And now
Quote: וְעַתָּ֗ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the same expression in 1:2. See the discussion of it this expression the Introduction to Joshua, and ensure that you have been translating it consistently throughout the book. Alternate translation: [So here is what I want you to do:]
to the nine tribes and half of the tribe of Manasseh
Quote: לְתִשְׁעַ֣ת הַשְּׁבָטִ֑ים וַחֲצִ֖י הַשֵּׁ֥בֶט הַֽמְנַשֶּֽׁה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
Yahweh is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [to the nine tribes and half of the tribe of Manasseh that have not yet received any land]
Joshua 13:8
With him
Quote: עִמּ֗וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun him refers to the other half of the tribe of Manasseh, which had already received land east of the Jordan River. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [With the other half of the tribe of Manasseh]
on the other side of the Jordan, toward the sunrise
Quote: בְּעֵ֤בֶר הַיַּרְדֵּן֙ מִזְרָ֔חָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, here the author is using the term sunrise by association to mean east. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language, here and throughout this chapter. Alternate translation: [on the east side of the Jordan]
Joshua 13:9
which is on the lip of the wadi of Arnon
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֩ עַל־שְׂפַת־נַ֨חַל אַרְנ֜וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
See how you translated the same expression in 12:2.
and the city that {is} in the middle of the wadi
Quote: וְהָעִ֨יר אֲשֶׁ֧ר בְּתוֹךְ־הַנַּ֛חַל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This could mean: (1) Alternate translation: [and the nearby city, known as one of the cities of Aroer, that is in the middle of the wadi] (2) Alternate translation: [including the part of that city that is in the middle of the wadi]
Joshua 13:11
and the border of the Geshurite and the Maakathite
Quote: וּגְב֧וּל הַגְּשׁוּרִ֣י וְהַמַּעֲכָתִ֗י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the same expression in 12:4. Alternate translation: [and the territory of the Geshurites and the Maakathites]
Joshua 13:13
to this day
Quote: עַ֖ד הַיּ֥וֹם הַזֶּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated this expression in 4:9. Alternate translation: [right up to this time]
Joshua 13:15
And Moses gave
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֣ן מֹשֶׁ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [And Moses gave land]
Joshua 13:16
the lip of
Quote: שְׂפַת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
See how you translated the same expression in 12:2.
Joshua 13:21
Evi and Rekem and Zur and Hur and Reba
Quote: אֶת־אֱוִ֤י וְאֶת־רֶ֨קֶם֙ וְאֶת־צ֤וּר וְאֶת־חוּר֙ וְאֶת־רֶ֔בַע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The words Evi, Rekem, Zur, Hur, and Reba are the names of men.
Joshua 13:22
Beor
Quote: בְּע֖וֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The word Beor is the name of a man.
with the slain
Quote: אֶל־חַלְלֵיהֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj
The author is using the adjective slain as a noun to mean people who were killed. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [among the others they killed]
Joshua 13:23
the Jordan and its border
Quote: הַיַּרְדֵּ֖ן וּגְב֑וּל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys
This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word Jordan tells what river this was the border or shore of. Alternate translation: [the shore of the Jordan River]
Joshua 13:24
And Moses gave
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֤ן מֹשֶׁה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [And Moses gave land]
Joshua 13:25
the border
Quote: הַגְּב֔וּל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term border by association to mean territory. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the territory]
and half of the land of the sons of Ammon
Quote: וַחֲצִ֕י אֶ֖רֶץ בְּנֵ֣י עַמּ֑וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author assumes that readers will know that King Sihon and the Amorites had conquered half of the land that had formerly belonged to the Ammonites. He is referring to this land, not to a further half of the land where the Ammonites were still living. Alternate translation: [and the land that King Sihon and the Amorites had taken from the Ammonites, which amounted to half of their land]
Joshua 13:27
the Jordan and the border
Quote: הַיַּרְדֵּ֖ן וּגְבֻ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys
See how you translated the similar expression in 13:23. Alternate translation: [with the Jordan as a border]
Joshua 13:29
And Moses gave
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֣ן מֹשֶׁ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [And Moses gave land]
Joshua 13:30
their border
Quote: גְבוּלָ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term border by association to mean territory. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language.
Jair
Quote: יָאִ֛יר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The word Jair is the name of a man. Numbers 32:41 describes his conquest of these towns.
Joshua 13:31
Makir
Quote: מָכִ֖יר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The word Makir is the name of a man.
Joshua 13:32
caused to inherit
Quote: נִחַ֥ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [caused these tribes to inherit] or [caused these tribes to possess]
Joshua 14
Joshua 14 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter continues the description of how Joshua divided up among the various tribes the land the Israelites conquered. It begins to describe the division of the land west of the Jordan River (14:1–5), and it relates how Joshua gave the city of Hebron and the surrounding area to Caleb (14:6–15).
Translation Issues in This Chapter
See Part 4 of the Introduction to Joshua for a discussion of translation issues specific to the descriptions in Chapters 13–21 of territories and their borders. These issues include: 1. The author uses the idea of “inheritance” to mean a lasting possession that would be passed down to future generations. 2. The author marks travel for change in elevation. He says, for example, “went up” or “went down” rather than just “went.” 3. The author describes the location of one place relative another in the way that is characteristic of his culture. Specifically, he says from what direction someone would be approaching a new location from a location he has already named. 4. The author often says simply “the sea” when he means the Mediterranean Sea, which he calls the Great Sea when he names it. 5. The author often uses the term “sea” by association to mean the direction of the Mediterranean Sea, that is, from his perspective, the west. 6. Similarly, the author often uses the term “sunrise” by association to mean the direction in which the sun rises, that is, the east. 7. All names in border descriptions and lists are the names of cities and towns unless otherwise indicated in the biblical text, in a note, or in the UST.
Joshua 14:1
inherited
Quote: נָחֲל֥וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, here and throughout this chapter, the author is using the term inherited by association to describe receiving a lasting possession that would be passed down to future generations. Alternate translation: [came to possess]
and the heads of the fathers of
Quote: וְרָאשֵׁ֛י אֲב֥וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out a word that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. He is using the word fathers to mean “father’s houses.” In ancient Israel, that expression described extended families, comprising three or four generations, led by a man who was the father, grandfather, or great-grandfather of the family members. The household also included servants. You can supply this word in your translation or use an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: [and the heads of the father’s houses of] or [and the men who led the extended families of]
Joshua 14:2
by the hand of Moses
Quote: בְּיַד־מֹשֶׁ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The author is using one part of Moses, his hand, to mean all of him in the act of passing on a command from Yahweh to the Israelites. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [through Moses]
Joshua 14:3
from the other side of the Jordan
Quote: מֵעֵ֖בֶר לַיַּרְדֵּ֑ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author is speaking of the location of this land from the perspective of the west side of the Jordan River. The other side therefore means the east side. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [on the east side of the Jordan River]
Joshua 14:4
And they gave no portion to the Levites in the land if not cities for dwelling and their pasturelands for their livestock and for their property
Quote: וְלֹֽא־נָתְנוּ֩ חֵ֨לֶק לַלְוִיִּ֜ם בָּאָ֗רֶץ כִּ֤י אִם־עָרִים֙ לָשֶׁ֔בֶת וּמִ֨גְרְשֵׁיהֶ֔ם לְמִקְנֵיהֶ֖ם וּלְקִנְיָנָֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions
If it would appear in your language that the author was making a statement and then contradicting it, you could reword this as a positive statement. Alternate translation: [The only portion that they gave to the Levites in the land was cities for dwelling and their pasturelands for their livestock and property]
And they gave no portion to the Levites
Quote: וְלֹֽא־נָתְנוּ֩ חֵ֨לֶק לַלְוִיִּ֜ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Here, they is an indefinite pronoun that does not have a specific referent in the immediate context. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this with a different expression that does not use an indefinite pronoun. Alternate translation: [And the Levites were given no portion]
Joshua 14:6
Jephunneh the Kenizzite
Quote: יְפֻנֶּ֖ה הַקְּנִזִּ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The word Jephunneh is the name of a man, and the word Kenizzite is the name of a people group.
the word
Quote: אֶֽת־הַדָּבָר֩ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Caleb is using the term word by association to mean a command that Yahweh gave by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [command]
Joshua 14:7
I {was} a son of 40 years
Quote: בֶּן־אַרְבָּעִ֨ים שָׁנָ֜ה אָנֹכִ֗י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Caleb is using a common expression of his culture to state his age. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [I was 40 years old]
And I brought back word to him just as {was} in my heart
Quote: וָאָשֵׁ֤ב אֹתוֹ֙ דָּבָ֔ר כַּאֲשֶׁ֖ר עִם־לְבָבִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here the heart represents the thoughts. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And I told him what I honestly felt to be the truth]
word
Quote: דָּבָ֔ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Caleb is using the term word by association to mean the report he gave by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [a report]
Joshua 14:8
But my brothers
Quote: וְאַחַי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Caleb is using the term brothers to describe people who are descended from the same ancestor. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [But my fellow Israelites]
went up
Quote: עָל֣וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, in Hebrew, writers and speakers generally indicated whether people were going up to a higher elevation or going down to a lower elevation when they traveled. If your language does not mark travel for change in elevation, you can translate such expressions more simply.
made the heart of the people melt
Quote: הִמְסִ֖יו אֶת־לֵ֣ב הָעָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here the heart represents courage, and melt represents losing courage. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [made the people lose their courage]
But I myself was full after Yahweh my God
Quote: וְאָנֹכִ֣י מִלֵּ֔אתִי אַחֲרֵ֖י יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהָֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Caleb is using a common expression to mean he obeyed God completely. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [But I obeyed Yahweh my God completely]
Joshua 14:9
If the land on which your foot has trodden will not be for an inheritance for you and for your sons unto forever
Quote: אִם־לֹ֗א הָאָ֨רֶץ֙ אֲשֶׁ֨ר דָּרְכָ֤ה רַגְלְךָ֙ בָּ֔הּ לְךָ֨ תִֽהְיֶ֧ה לְנַחֲלָ֛ה וּלְבָנֶ֖יךָ עַד־עוֹלָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula
Following the custom of his culture, Moses is swearing an oath by stating the first part of a condition (if) but not the second part (“then”). If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explicitly state the second part of this condition. Alternate translation: [If the land on which your foot has walked does not become an inheritance for you and your descendants forever, then may Yahweh punish me severely]
saying, ‘If the land on which your foot has trodden will not be for an inheritance for you and for your sons unto forever, for you were full after Yahweh my God
Quote: לֵאמֹר֒ אִם־לֹ֗א הָאָ֨רֶץ֙ אֲשֶׁ֨ר דָּרְכָ֤ה רַגְלְךָ֙ בָּ֔הּ לְךָ֨ תִֽהְיֶ֧ה לְנַחֲלָ֛ה וּלְבָנֶ֖יךָ עַד־עוֹלָ֑ם כִּ֣י מִלֵּ֔אתָ אַחֲרֵ֖י יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהָֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [telling me that the land on which my foot had trodden would certainly be for an inheritance for me and my sons forever, since I had been full after Yahweh his God]
If the land on which your foot has trodden will not be for an inheritance for you and for your sons unto forever, for you were full after Yahweh my God
Quote: אִם־לֹ֗א הָאָ֨רֶץ֙ אֲשֶׁ֨ר דָּרְכָ֤ה רַגְלְךָ֙ בָּ֔הּ לְךָ֨ תִֽהְיֶ֧ה לְנַחֲלָ֛ה וּלְבָנֶ֖יךָ עַד־עוֹלָ֑ם כִּ֣י מִלֵּ֔אתָ אַחֲרֵ֖י יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהָֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because you obeyed Yahweh your God completely, the land on which your foot has trodden will be an inheritance for you and your descendants forever]
the land on which your foot has trodden
Quote: הָאָ֨רֶץ֙ אֲשֶׁ֨ר דָּרְכָ֤ה רַגְלְךָ֙ בָּ֔הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Moses is using one part of Caleb, his foot, to mean all of him in the act of walking. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the land where you have walked]
and for your sons
Quote: וּלְבָנֶ֖יךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Moses is speaking as if all of the descendants of Caleb were actually his sons. Alternate translation: [and for your descendants]
you were full after Yahweh my God
Quote: מִלֵּ֔אתָ אַחֲרֵ֖י יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהָֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the similar expression in 14:8.
Joshua 14:10
behold, … behold
Quote: הִנֵּה֩ & הִנֵּ֣ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
In both instances, Caleb is using the term behold to focus his listener’s attention on what he is about to say. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [listen to this … listen to this]
this word
Quote: אֶת־הַדָּבָ֤ר הַזֶּה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Caleb is using the term word by association to mean a command that Yahweh spoke by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [this command]
I am a son of 85 years
Quote: אָנֹכִ֣י & בֶּן־חָמֵ֥שׁ וּשְׁמוֹנִ֖ים שָׁנָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Caleb is using a common expression of his culture to state his age. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [I am 85 years old]
Joshua 14:11
Still I {am} strong today just as on the day Moses sent me. As {was} my strength then, so {is} my strength now
Quote: עוֹדֶ֨נִּי הַיּ֜וֹם חָזָ֗ק כַּֽאֲשֶׁר֙ בְּי֨וֹם שְׁלֹ֤חַ אוֹתִי֙ מֹשֶׁ֔ה כְּכֹ֥חִי אָ֖ז וּכְכֹ֣חִי עָ֑תָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
These two phrases mean basically the same thing. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: [I have just as much strength now as I had then, on the day when Moses sent me]
for war, and for going out and for coming in
Quote: לַמִּלְחָמָ֖ה וְלָצֵ֥את וְלָבֽוֹא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Caleb is using a common expression to refer to leadership. It is clear from verses such as 1 Kings 3:7 that the expression going out and coming in is a general description of the work of rulers and commanders. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [both to fight in war and to command soldiers in battle]
Joshua 14:12
and great fortified cities
Quote: וְעָרִים֙ גְּדֹל֣וֹת בְּצֻר֔וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and that there were great fortified cities there]
Yahweh {will be} with me
Quote: יְהוָ֤ה אוֹתִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Caleb is using a common expression to mean that God will help him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Yahweh will help me]
Joshua 14:14
Hebron is to Caleb, the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite, for an inheritance to this day, because he was full after Yahweh, the God of Israel
Quote: הָיְתָֽה־חֶ֠בְרוֹן לְכָלֵ֨ב בֶּן־יְפֻנֶּ֤ה הַקְּנִזִּי֙ לְֽנַחֲלָ֔ה עַ֖ד הַיּ֣וֹם הַזֶּ֑ה יַ֚עַן אֲשֶׁ֣ר מִלֵּ֔א אַחֲרֵ֕י יְהוָ֖ה אֱלֹהֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [because Caleb obeyed Yahweh completely, Hebron has belonged to him and his descendants as an inheritance to this day]
to this day
Quote: עַ֖ד הַיּ֣וֹם הַזֶּ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the phrase to this day in 4:9. Alternate translation: [right up to this time]
he was full after Yahweh
Quote: מִלֵּ֔א אַחֲרֵ֕י יְהוָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the similar expressions in 14:8 and 14:9.
Joshua 14:15
Now the name of Hebron formerly {was} Kiriath Arba. He {was} a great man among the Anakites
Quote: וְשֵׁ֨ם חֶבְר֤וֹן לְפָנִים֙ קִרְיַ֣ת אַרְבַּ֔ע הָאָדָ֧ם הַגָּד֛וֹל בָּעֲנָקִ֖ים ה֑וּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The author is providing background information to help readers recognize that Hebron is the same city that they may have known as Kiriath Arba. He is also providing information about the man Arba for whom the city was originally named. In your translation, present this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.
And the land rested from war
Quote: וְהָאָ֥רֶץ שָׁקְטָ֖ה מִמִּלְחָמָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
See how you translated the similar expression in 11:23. Alternate translation: [And there was no more war in the land]
Joshua 15
Joshua 15 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter continues the description of how Joshua divided among the various tribes the land the Israelites conquered. It describes how Joshua gave land west of the Jordan River to the tribe of Judah (15:1–63).
Translation Issues in This Chapter
See Part 4 of the Introduction to Joshua for a discussion of translation issues specific to the descriptions in Chapters 13–21 of territories and their borders. These issues include: 1. The author uses the idea of “inheritance” to mean a lasting possession that would be passed down to future generations. 2. The author marks travel for change in elevation. He says, for example, “went up” or “went down” rather than just “went.” 3. The author describes the location of one place relative another in the way that is characteristic of his culture. Specifically, he says from what direction someone would be approaching a new location from a location he has already named. 4. The author often says simply “the sea” when he means the Mediterranean Sea, which he calls the Great Sea when he names it. 5. The author often uses the term “sea” by association to mean the direction of the Mediterranean Sea, that is, from his perspective, the west. 6. Similarly, the author often uses the term “sunrise” by association to mean the direction in which the sun rises, that is, the east. 7. All names in border descriptions and lists are the names of cities and towns unless otherwise indicated in the biblical text, in a note, or in the UST.
Joshua 15:1
the lot
Quote: הַגּוֹרָ֗ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term lot by association to mean the territory that was assigned to the tribe of Judah by casting lots. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the territory assigned]
from the wilderness of Zin southward from the end of the south
Quote: מִדְבַּר־צִ֛ן נֶ֖גְבָּה מִקְצֵ֥ה תֵימָֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, here and throughout this chapter, the author describes the location of one place relative to another in the way that is characteristic of his culture. In your translation, express these relative locations in the way that your culture would describe them. Alternate translation: [to the wilderness of Zin in the Negev at its extreme southern end]
Joshua 15:2
the Sea of Salt
Quote: יָ֣ם הַמֶּ֑לַח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The Sea of Salt is another name for what is now known as “the Dead Sea.”
the tongue
Quote: הַלָּשֹׁ֖ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
The author is speaking of this sea as if it were a living thing that had a tongue. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the bay]
Joshua 15:3
to the Ascent of Akrabbim
Quote: לְמַעֲלֵ֤ה עַקְרַבִּים֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate
Akrabbim is a Hebrew word that the ULT has spelled out using English letters so that readers will know how it sounds. The word means “scorpions” in Hebrew, and here it is the name of a place. In your translation you could spell this name the way it sounds in your language, or you could express its meaning as a name. Alternate translation: [Scorpion Pass]
then it went up
Quote: וְעָלָ֥ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, in Hebrew, writers and speakers generally indicated whether people were going up to a higher elevation or going down to a lower elevation when they traveled. If your language does not mark travel for change in elevation, you can translate such expressions more simply, here and throughout this chapter. Alternate translation: [then it went]
Joshua 15:4
to} the wadi of Egypt
Quote: נַ֣חַל מִצְרַ֔יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This seems to be the same body of water that is mentioned in 13:13, where it is called the Shihor River. You could use that same name here if that would be helpful to your readers.
This will be for you the border of the south
Quote: זֶה־יִהְיֶ֥ה לָכֶ֖ם גְּב֥וּל נֶֽגֶב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks
The author is not addressing all of his readers directly and telling them that this will be their border. Rather, he is quoting the words that Yahweh told Moses to speak to the Israelites in Numbers 34:3 about what their southern border would be as a nation. The implication is that the territory of the tribe of Judah would extend to the south all the way to this national border. You may wish to indicate that this sentence is a quotation by putting it within first-level quotation marks or by using some other punctuation or convention that your language uses to indicate a first-level quotation.
This will be for you the border of the south
Quote: זֶה־יִהְיֶ֥ה לָכֶ֖ם גְּב֥וּל נֶֽגֶב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Another approach to translating this sentence would be to use the past tense and the third person, as the author does in the rest of this account, to show that he is not addressing readers directly but continuing to describe the borders of the tribe of Judah. Alternate translation: [This was their southern border]
Joshua 15:5
from the tongue of
Quote: מִלְּשׁ֣וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
See how you translated the same expression in 15:2. Alternate translation: [from the bay of]
Joshua 15:7
from the Valley of Achor
Quote: מֵעֵ֣מֶק עָכוֹר֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate
See how you translated this name in 7:24.
Joshua 15:8
to the shoulder of the Jebusite from the south (it is Jerusalem
Quote: אֶל־כֶּ֤תֶף הַיְבוּסִי֙ מִנֶּ֔גֶב הִ֖יא יְרֽוּשָׁלִָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term Jebusite, which he explains means Jerusalem, by association to mean Mount Zion, the mountain on which the Jebusite city of Jerusalem was located. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [to the southern shoulder of Mount Zion]
to the shoulder of the Jebusite from the south (it is Jerusalem
Quote: אֶל־כֶּ֤תֶף הַיְבוּסִי֙ מִנֶּ֔גֶב הִ֖יא יְרֽוּשָׁלִָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
The author is speaking of the mountain on which Jerusalem was built as if it were a living thing that had a shoulder. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to the southern slope of Mount Zion]
the head of the hill
Quote: רֹ֣אשׁ הָהָ֗ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
The author is speaking of this hill as if it were a living thing that had a head. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the top of the hill]
is} on the face of
Quote: עַל־פְּנֵ֤י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See the Introduction to Judges for a discussion of the phrase “to the face of.” Alternate translation: [is before]
Joshua 15:9
to Baalah (it is Kiriath Jearim
Quote: בַּעֲלָ֔ה הִ֖יא קִרְיַ֥ת יְעָרִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The author is providing background information to explain to readers that the city he calls Baalah is the same one that they know as Kiriath Jearim. In your translation, present this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.
Joshua 15:10
to the shoulder of Mount Jearim
Quote: אֶל־כֶּ֧תֶף הַר־יְעָרִ֛ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
See how you translated the same expression in 15:8. Alternate translation: [to the north slope of Mount Jearim]
Mount Jearim … it is Kesalon
Quote: הַר־יְעָרִ֛ים & הִ֣יא כְסָל֑וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The author is providing background information to help readers understand that Mount Jearim was also known as Kesalon. In your translation, present this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.
Joshua 15:11
to the shoulder of Ekron northward
Quote: אֶל־כֶּ֣תֶף עֶקְרוֹן֮ צָפוֹנָה֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
See how you translated the same expression in 15:8. Alternate translation: [to the northern slope of the mound on which the city of Ekron was built]
And the goings out of the border were seaward
Quote: וְהָי֛וּ תֹּצְא֥וֹת הַגְּב֖וּל יָֽמָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, when the author says seaward, typically he is referring to the Mediterranean Sea. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And the border ended at the Mediterranean Sea]
Joshua 15:12
was} the Great Sea and the border
Quote: הַיָּ֥מָּה הַגָּד֖וֹל וּגְב֑וּל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys
See how you translated the similar expression in 13:23. Alternate translation: [was the coast of the Great Sea]
was} the Great Sea
Quote: הַיָּ֥מָּה הַגָּד֖וֹל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
See how you translated this name in 1:4. Alternate translation: [was the Mediterranean Sea]
Joshua 15:13
he gave
Quote: נָ֤תַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun he refers to Joshua. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [Joshua gave]
according to the mouth of Yahweh to Joshua
Quote: אֶל־פִּ֥י יְהוָ֖ה לִֽיהוֹשֻׁ֑עַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term mouth by association to mean the words that Yahweh spoke. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [according to what Yahweh had commanded Joshua]
Kiriath Arba (the father of the Anak, it {is} Hebron
Quote: אֶת־קִרְיַ֥ת אַרְבַּ֛ע אֲבִ֥י הָעֲנָ֖ק הִ֥יא חֶבְרֽוֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
See how you presented the similar background information that the author provides in 14:15 about the former and current name of this city.
Joshua 15:14
the three sons of Anak, Sheshai and Ahiman and Talmai, the children of Anak
Quote: אֶת־שְׁלוֹשָׁ֖ה בְּנֵ֣י הָעֲנָ֑ק אֶת־שֵׁשַׁ֤י וְאֶת־אֲחִימַן֙ וְאֶת־תַּלְמַ֔י יְלִידֵ֖י הָעֲנָֽק (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The author is using the term sons to refer to the three clans that were descended from a man named Anak. He is using the term children to mean “descendants.” Alternate translation: [the three Anakite clans of Sheshai, Ahiman, and Talmai, who were all descendants of Anak]
Joshua 15:15
Now the name of Debir {was} formerly Kiriath Sepher
Quote: וְשֵׁם־דְּבִ֥ר לְפָנִ֖ים קִרְיַת־סֵֽפֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The author is providing background information to help readers understand that Debir was formerly known as Kiriath Sepher. In your translation, present this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.
Joshua 15:17
So he gave
Quote: וַיִּתֶּן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun he refers to Caleb. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [So Caleb gave]
Joshua 15:18
Now it happened
Quote: וַיְהִ֣י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The author is using this phrase to introduce background information that is not part of the main narrative. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.
in the coming of her
Quote: בְּבוֹאָ֗הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author assumes that his readers will understand what he means by this phrase. This could mean: (1) that Aksah came to Kiriath Sepher in order to marry Othniel and that she made this request when she arrived and saw the land that Caleb had given to him. Alternate translation: [when Aksah arrived at Kiriath Sepher] (2) that the author is using this expression to describe Aksah entering Othniel’s household as his wife. Alternate translation: [once Aksah had married Othniel]
that she persuaded him to request the field from her father
Quote: וַתְּסִיתֵ֨הוּ֙ לִשְׁא֤וֹל מֵֽאֵת־אָבִ֨יהָ֙ שָׂדֶ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author is leaving implicit who was to make this request. The meaning does not seem to be that Aksah persuaded Othniel that he should request this field from Caleb, since he is not the one who asks; she is. In this culture, a young man such as Othniel may not have had the standing to make this kind of request from a leader such as Caleb. So the meaning seems to be that Aksah persuaded Othniel that she should ask for the field. In this culture, a daughter may have been able to make such a request of her father. Alternate translation: [that she persuaded him to allow her to request the field]
the field from her father
Quote: מֵֽאֵת־אָבִ֨יהָ֙ שָׂדֶ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author has a particular field in view. The narrative suggests implicitly that Caleb had given some land to Othniel but that it was arid territory. It suggests further that near this land, there was some ground that was suitable for cultivation because it was watered by springs. You could state this information explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [from her father some land that was nearby the land that he had already given to Othniel and that was watered by springs and so could be cultivated]
What for you
Quote: מַה־לָּֽךְ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
Caleb is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [What would you like me to do for you?]
Joshua 15:19
Give
Quote: תְּנָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative
This is an imperative, but it communicates a polite request rather than a command. Use a form in your language that communicates a polite request. It may be helpful to add an expression such as “please” to make this clear. Alternate translation: [Please give]
a blessing
Quote: בְרָכָ֗ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
In this context, the word blessing is an abstract noun. It does not refer to something that someone would say to cause good and beneficial things to happen to a person. Instead, it refers to a good and beneficial thing itself. If your language does not use abstract nouns in this way, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [something that will benefit me]
you shall also give to me
Quote: וְנָתַתָּ֥ה לִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-tense
Aksah is using a verb form that could either indicate what a person ought to do or what a person is going to do. This could mean: (1) that since the land Caleb gave Aksah and Othniel was dry, he also ought to give them some land with springs of water. Alternate translation: [you should also give me] (2) that Aksah is answering Caleb’s question and this is implicitly her request. Alternate translation: [my request is that you will also give me]
springs of waters.” … the upper springs and the lower springs
Quote: גֻּלֹּ֣ת מָ֑יִם & אֵ֚ת גֻּלֹּ֣ת עִלִּיּ֔וֹת וְאֵ֖ת גֻּלֹּ֥ת תַּחְתִּיּֽוֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Aksah and the author are using these expressions to mean by association the land on which these springs were located. Alternate translation: [some land that has springs of waters … some land in that area where there were upper springs and lower springs]
springs of waters
Quote: גֻּלֹּ֣ת מָ֑יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo
It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would be unnatural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [springs] or [land on which there are springs]
Joshua 15:20
This {is} the inheritance of
Quote: זֹ֗את נַחֲלַ֛ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, the author is using the term inheritance by association to mean a lasting possession that would be passed down to future generations. Alternate translation: [The following cities became the possession of]
Joshua 15:21
at the end of the tribe of
Quote: מִקְצֵה֙ לְמַטֵּ֣ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term tribe by association to mean the territory that belonged to this tribe. The context shows that by end, he means the southern end. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [at the southern end of the territory of the tribe of]
Kabzeel and Eder and Jagur
Quote: קַבְצְאֵ֥ל וְעֵ֖דֶר וְיָגֽוּר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, these names and all of the other names in verses 22–62 are the names of cities unless the text indicates otherwise with expressions such as “the wadi of Egypt” or “the Great Sea” as in 15:47.
Joshua 15:25
and Kerioth Hezron (it is Hazor
Quote: וּקְרִיּ֔וֹת חֶצְר֖וֹן הִ֥יא חָצֽוֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The author is providing background information to help readers understand that the city formerly known as Kerioth Hezron is the one they know as Hazor. In your translation, present this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.
Joshua 15:32
All of the cities
Quote: כָּל־עָרִ֛ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author assumes that readers will know he means the cities in the southern part of Judah’s territory. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [All of the cities in the southern part of the territory of Judah]
Joshua 15:33
In the lowlands
Quote: בַּשְּׁפֵלָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [These were the cities in the lowlands of the territory of Judah]
Joshua 15:45
and its daughters
Quote: וּבְנֹתֶ֖יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here, the author speaks of the city of Ekron as if it were a woman, and the surrounding small towns that were dependent on Ekron as if they were its daughters. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and its surrounding settlements]
Joshua 15:46
were} on the hand of Ashdod
Quote: עַל־יַ֥ד אַשְׁדּ֖וֹד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term hand by association to mean near or close by. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [were nearby Ashdod]
Joshua 15:47
its daughters, … its daughters
Quote: בְּנוֹתֶ֣יהָ & בְּנוֹתֶ֥יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
See how you translated this expression in 15:45 where it is used with the same meaning. Alternate translation: [its surrounding settlements … its surrounding settlements]
the wadi of Egypt
Quote: נַ֣חַל מִצְרָ֑יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
See how you translated this same name in 13:3 and 15:4. Alternate translation: [the Shihor River]
and the Great Sea and the border
Quote: וְהַיָּ֥ם הַגָּד֖וֹל וּגְבֽוּל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys
See how you translated the similar expression in 13:23 and 15:12. Alternate translation: [and the coast of the Great Sea]
Joshua 15:48
And in the hill country
Quote: וּבָהָ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [And these were the cities in the hill country of the territory of Judah]
Joshua 15:49
and Kiriath Sannah (it is Debir
Quote: וְקִרְיַת־סַנָּ֖ה הִ֥יא דְבִֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The author is providing background information to help readers understand that the city formerly known as Kiriath Sannah is the one they know as Debir. In your translation, present this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.
Joshua 15:54
and Kiriath Arba (it is Hebron
Quote: וְקִרְיַ֥ת אַרְבַּ֛ע הִ֥יא חֶבְר֖וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The author is providing background information to help readers understand that the city formerly known as Kiriath Arba is the one they know as Hebron. In your translation, present this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.
Joshua 15:60
Kiriath Baal (it is Kiriath Jearim
Quote: קִרְיַת־בַּ֗עַל הִ֛יא קִרְיַ֥ת יְעָרִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The author is providing background information to help readers understand that the city formerly known as Kiriath Baal is the one they know as Kiriath Jearim. In your translation, present this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.
Joshua 15:61
In the wilderness
Quote: בַּמִּדְבָּ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [These were the cities in the wilderness of the territory of Judah]
Joshua 15:63
the Jebusite, … the Jebusite
Quote: הַיְבוּסִי֙ & הַיְבוּסִ֜י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
The author is not referring to a specific Jebusite. He means the Jebusite people group in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [the Jebusites … the Jebusites]
to this day
Quote: עַ֖ד הַיּ֥וֹם הַזֶּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the phrase to this day in 4:9. Alternate translation: [right up to this time]
Joshua 16
Joshua 16 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter continues the description of how Joshua divided up among the various tribes the land the Israelites conquered. It begins to describe how Joshua gave land west of the Jordan River to the two tribes that were descendants of Joseph (16:1–4), starting with the tribe of Ephraim (16:5–10).
Translation Issues in This Chapter
See Part 4 of the Introduction to Joshua for a discussion of translation issues specific to the descriptions in Chapters 13–21 of territories and their borders. These issues include: 1. The author uses the idea of “inheritance” to mean a lasting possession that would be passed down to future generations. 2. The author marks travel for change in elevation. He says, for example, “went up” or “went down” rather than just “went.” 3. The author describes the location of one place relative another in the way that is characteristic of his culture. Specifically, he says from what direction someone would be approaching a new location from a location he has already named. 4. The author often says simply “the sea” when he means the Mediterranean Sea, which he calls the Great Sea when he names it. 5. The author often uses the term “sea” by association to mean the direction of the Mediterranean Sea, that is, from his perspective, the west. 6. Similarly, the author often uses the term “sunrise” by association to mean the direction in which the sun rises, that is, the east. 7. All names in border descriptions and lists are the names of cities and towns unless otherwise indicated in the biblical text, in a note, or in the UST.
Joshua 16:1
the lot
Quote: הַגּוֹרָ֜ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term lot by association to mean the territory that was assigned by casting lots. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the territory assigned by lot]
for the sons of Joseph
Quote: לִבְנֵ֤י יוֹסֵף֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The author is speaking as if the people of the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh were actually the sons of Joseph. Alternate translation: [for the descendants of Joseph]
to the waters of Jericho from the sunrise
Quote: לְמֵ֥י יְרִיח֖וֹ מִזְרָ֑חָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, here the author is using the term sunrise by association to mean the direction where the sun rises, that is, the east. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language, here and throughout this chapter. Alternate translation: [to the waters east of Jericho]
Joshua 16:2
from Bethel to Luz
Quote: מִבֵּֽית־אֵ֖ל ל֑וּזָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, all names in border descriptions and lists, such as are found in this chapter, are the names of cities and towns unless otherwise indicated in the biblical text, in a note, or in the UST. So the words Bethel and Luz are the names of cities, as are similar words throughout this chapter.
Joshua 16:3
seaward
Quote: יָֽמָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, here the author is using the term seaward by association to mean the direction of the Mediterranean Sea (they called it the Great Sea), that is, from his perspective, the west. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language, here and throughout this chapter. Alternate translation: [westward]
to the border of the Japhletite, unto the border of Lower Beth Horon
Quote: אֶל־גְּב֣וּל הַיַּפְלֵטִ֗י עַ֣ד גְּב֧וּל בֵּית־חוֹרֹ֛ן תַּחְתּ֖וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term border by association to mean territory. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [to the territory of the Japhletites, to the territory of Lower Beth Horon]
the Japhletite
Quote: הַיַּפְלֵטִ֗י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
The author is not referring to a specific Japhletite. He means the members of the Japhletite people group in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [the Japhletites]
and its goings out were seaward
Quote: וְהָי֥וּ תצאתו יָֽמָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, when the author says seaward, typically he is referring to the Mediterranean Sea. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers, here and throughout this chapter. Alternate translation: [and the border ended at the Mediterranean Sea]
Joshua 16:4
the sons of Joseph, Manasseh and Ephraim
Quote: בְנֵי־יוֹסֵ֖ף מְנַשֶּׁ֥ה וְאֶפְרָֽיִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The author is speaking as if the people of the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh were actually the sons of Joseph. Alternate translation: [And the descendants of Joseph, the tribes of Manasseh and Ephraim]
And … inherited
Quote: וַיִּנְחֲל֥וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, here and throughout this chapter, the author is using the idea of inheriting by association to mean receiving a lasting possession that would be passed down to future generations. Alternate translation: [And … received territory as a lasting possession]
Joshua 16:5
And … from the sunrise was Ataroth Addar unto Upper Beth Horon
Quote: וַיְהִ֞י & מִזְרָ֔חָה עַטְר֣וֹת אַדָּ֔ר עַד־בֵּ֥ית חוֹרֹ֖ן עֶלְיֽוֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, here and throughout this chapter, the author is describing the location of one place relative to another in the way that is characteristic of his culture. In your translation, express this in the way your culture describes the relative location of places. Alternate translation: [And … began at Ataroth Addar and went west to Upper Beth Horon]
Joshua 16:9
set apart
Quote: הַמִּבְדָּלוֹת֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [that the Israelite leaders set apart]
Joshua 16:10
to this day
Quote: עַד־הַיּ֣וֹם הַזֶּ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the phrase to this day in 4:9. Alternate translation: [right up to this time]
the Canaanite, … the Canaanite
Quote: אֶת־הַֽכְּנַעֲנִ֖י & הַֽכְּנַעֲנִ֜י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
The author is not referring to a specific Canaanite. He means Canaanites in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [the Canaanites … the Canaanites]
Joshua 17
Joshua 17 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter continues the description of how Joshua divided up among the various tribes the land the Israelites conquered. It continues the description of how Joshua gave land west of the Jordan River to the two tribes that were descendants of Joseph. It describes the land he gave to the tribe of Manasseh (17:1–18).
Translation Issues in This Chapter
See Part 4 of the Introduction to Joshua for a discussion of translation issues specific to the descriptions in Chapters 13–21 of territories and their borders. These issues include: 1. The author uses the idea of “inheritance” to mean a lasting possession that would be passed down to future generations. 2. The author marks travel for change in elevation. He says, for example, “went up” or “went down” rather than just “went.” 3. The author describes the location of one place relative another in the way that is characteristic of his culture. Specifically, he says from what direction someone would be approaching a new location from a location he has already named. 4. The author often says simply “the sea” when he means the Mediterranean Sea, which he calls the Great Sea when he names it. 5. The author often uses the term “sea” by association to mean the direction of the Mediterranean Sea, that is, from his perspective, the west. 6. Similarly, the author often uses the term “sunrise” by association to mean the direction in which the sun rises, that is, the east. 7. All names in border descriptions and lists are the names of cities and towns unless otherwise indicated in the biblical text, in a note, or in the UST.
Joshua 17:1
And a lot was
Quote: וַיְהִ֤י הַגּוֹרָל֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term lot by association to mean the territory that was assigned by casting lots. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And a territory was assigned by lot]
Now he was the firstborn of Joseph
Quote: כִּי־ה֖וּא בְּכ֣וֹר יוֹסֵ֑ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The author is reminding readers of what he has already told them in 16:4, that the descendants of Joseph had become the two tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh. So most of the tribal allotments went to descendants of Jacob’s sons, but the allotments described in 16:5–10 and in this chapter went to descendants of Jacob’s grandsons.
For Makir, the firstborn of Manasseh, the father of Gilead
Quote: לְמָכִיר֩ בְּכ֨וֹר מְנַשֶּׁ֜ה אֲבִ֣י הַגִּלְעָ֗ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Be sure that it is clear in your translation that Makir, not Manasseh, was the father of Gilead. Alternate translation: [For Makir, who was the firstborn of Manasseh and who was the father of Gilead]
because he was a man of war, so to him were
Quote: כִּ֣י ה֤וּא הָיָה֙ אִ֣ישׁ מִלְחָמָ֔ה וַֽיְהִי־ל֖וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the singular pronouns he and him, representing Makir, by association to mean his descendants. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [because his descendants were great warriors, so to them were]
Joshua 17:2
And it was
Quote: וַ֠יְהִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun it refers to the territory assigned by lot on the west side of the Jordan River. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And the territory assigned by lot on the west side of the Jordan River was]
Joshua 17:3
no sons were to him, if not daughters
Quote: לֹא־הָ֥יוּ ל֛וֹ בָּנִ֖ים כִּ֣י אִם־בָּנ֑וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions
If it would appear in your language that the author was making a statement and then contradicting it, you could reword this as a positive statement. Alternate translation: [the only children he had were daughters]
Joshua 17:4
And they came near to the face of Eleazar the priest, and to the face of Joshua the son of Nun, and to the face of the leaders
Quote: וַתִּקְרַ֡בְנָה לִפְנֵי֩ אֶלְעָזָ֨ר הַכֹּהֵ֜ן וְלִפְנֵ֣י ׀ יְהוֹשֻׁ֣עַ בִּן־נ֗וּן וְלִפְנֵ֤י הַנְּשִׂיאִים֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term face by association to mean the presence of a person or group. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And they came into the presence of Eleazar the priest, Joshua the son of Nun, and the leaders] or [And they approached Eleazar the priest, Joshua the son of Nun, and the leaders]
an inheritance
Quote: נַחֲלָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, here and throughout this chapter, the term inheritance means by association a lasting possession that would be passed down to future generations. Alternate translation: [a lasting possession of land]
our brothers
Quote: אַחֵ֑ינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Since, as 17:3 indicates, these women had no actual brothers, they are using that term to refer to their relatives. Alternate translation: [the other members of our tribe]
And he gave
Quote: וַיִּתֵּ֨ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun he refers to Joshua. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And Joshua gave]
according to the mouth of Yahweh
Quote: אֶל־פִּ֤י יְהוָה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term mouth by association to mean the words that Yahweh spoke. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [according to what Yahweh had commanded]
the brothers of their father
Quote: אֲחֵ֥י אֲבִיהֶֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship
Your language may have its own term or expression for this relationship. Alternate translation: [their uncles]
Joshua 17:5
So ten portions of Manasseh fell
Quote: וַיִּפְּל֥וּ חַבְלֵֽי־מְנַשֶּׁ֖ה עֲשָׂרָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the similar expression in 13:6. Alternate translation: [So the leaders assigned ten portions of land by lot to the tribe of Manasseh]
So ten portions of Manasseh fell
Quote: וַיִּפְּל֥וּ חַבְלֵֽי־מְנַשֶּׁ֖ה עֲשָׂרָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The meaning in context seems to be that five of these portions went to the clans named in 17:2 and the other five went to the daughters of Zelophehad and their descendants. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [So the leaders assigned portions of land to the five clans descended from Manasseh’s sons and to the five daughters of Zelphehad and their families]
which {were} from the other side of the Jordan
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֖ר מֵעֵ֥בֶר לַיַּרְדֵּֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, here and throughout this chapter, the author describes the location of one place relative to another from his own perspective and in the way that is characteristic of his culture. In your translation, express these relative locations in the way your culture would describe them. Alternate translation: [which were on the east side of the Jordan River]
Joshua 17:6
For the daughters of Manasseh … his sons
Quote: כִּ֚י בְּנ֣וֹת מְנַשֶּׁ֔ה & בָּנָ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The author is speaking of these people as if they were the actual daughters and sons of Manasseh. Alternate translation: [Because the female descendants of Manasseh who had no brothers … his male descendants]
Joshua 17:7
which {is} on the face of Shechem
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֖ר עַל־פְּנֵ֣י שְׁכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term face by association to mean the area in front of something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [which is next to Shechem]
Joshua 17:8
The land of Tappuah was to Manasseh, but Tappuah at the border of Manasseh {was} to the sons of Ephraim
Quote: לִמְנַשֶּׁ֕ה הָיְתָ֖ה אֶ֣רֶץ תַּפּ֑וּחַ וְתַפּ֛וּחַ אֶל־גְּב֥וּל מְנַשֶּׁ֖ה לִבְנֵ֥י אֶפְרָֽיִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The author is providing background information to help readers understand that while the territory around Tappuah belonged to Manasseh, the city of Tappuah itself belonged to Ephraim. In your translation, present this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.
Joshua 17:9
and its goings out were seaward
Quote: וַיְהִ֥י תֹצְאֹתָ֖יו הַיָּֽמָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, when the author says seaward, typically he means the Mediterranean Sea (known as the Great Sea). You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and the border ended at the Great Sea]
Joshua 17:10
Southward {was} to Ephraim, and northward {was} to Manasseh
Quote: נֶ֣גְבָּה לְאֶפְרַ֗יִם וְצָפ֨וֹנָה֙ לִמְנַשֶּׁ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author assumes that readers will understand that he is referring to the land on either side of the wadi of Kanah. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [The land south of the wadi of Kanah belonged to Ephraim, while the land north of the wadi belonged to Manasseh]
its border
Quote: גְּבוּל֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun its refers to the territory of Manasseh. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [Manasseh’s western border]
And it met with Asher
Quote: וּבְאָשֵׁר֙ יִפְגְּע֣וּן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun it refers to the territory of Manasseh. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And Manasseh’s territory met with Asher]
Joshua 17:11
and its daughters … and its daughters … and its daughters … and its daughters … and its daughters … and its daughters
Quote: וּ֠בְנוֹתֶיהָ & וּבְנוֹתֶ֜יהָ & וּבְנוֹתֶ֗יהָ & וּבְנֹתֶ֔יהָ & וּבְנֹתֶ֔יהָ & וּבְנוֹתֶ֑יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The author is speaking of these towns as if they were the daughters of the main cities. See how you translated this expression in 15:45 where it is used with the same meaning. Alternate translation: [and its surrounding settlements … and its surrounding settlements … and its surrounding settlements … and its surrounding settlements … and its surrounding settlements]
the three of a height
Quote: שְׁלֹ֖שֶׁת הַנָּֽפֶת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This could mean: (1) that the last three cities mentioned, En Dor, Taanach, and Megiddo, were located on heights. They were all near the city of Dor, and they may have been considered part of the “heights of Dor” mentioned in 11:2. Alternate translation: [these last three cities being in the heights of Dor] (2) that the author wants readers to recognize that the city he calls Dor was also known as Naphoth Dor. The word translated as a height could be a proper name, Naphoth. Alternate translation: [the third city on this list also being known as Naphoth Dor]
Joshua 17:12
the Canaanite
Quote: הַֽכְּנַעֲנִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
The author is not referring to a specific Canaanite. He means the Canaanite people group in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [the Canaanites]
Joshua 17:13
But dispossessing, they did not dispossess him
Quote: וְהוֹרֵ֖שׁ לֹ֥א הוֹרִישֽׁוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication
The author is repeating forms of the verb dispossess 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: [But they definitely did not drive them out]
Joshua 17:14
Why have you given to me {as} an inheritance one lot and one portion, when I {am} a numerous people, since Yahweh has blessed me unto now
Quote: מַדּוּעַ֩ נָתַ֨תָּה לִּ֜י נַחֲלָ֗ה גּוֹרָ֤ל אֶחָד֙ וְחֶ֣בֶל אֶחָ֔ד וַֽאֲנִ֣י עַם־רָ֔ב עַ֥ד אֲשֶׁר־עַד־כֹּ֖ה בֵּֽרְכַ֥נִי יְהוָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The descendants of Joseph are using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [You should not have given us only one lot, one portion, as an inheritance! After all, we are a numerous people, since Yahweh has blessed us unto now]
to me {… when I {am} … has blessed me
Quote: לִּ֜י & וַֽאֲנִ֣י & בֵּֽרְכַ֥נִי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
The author is speaking of the tribes of Joseph as if they were a single person who could speak. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly using plural pronouns, as the author himself does in verse 16. Alternate translation: [to us … when we are … has blessed us]
one lot and one portion
Quote: גּוֹרָ֤ל אֶחָד֙ וְחֶ֣בֶל אֶחָ֔ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The terms lot and portion mean similar things. The descendants of Joseph are using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [only one portion of land]
Joshua 17:15
you {are} … go up for yourself … and you shall clear for yourself … to you
Quote: אַתָּה֙ עֲלֵ֣ה לְךָ֣ & וּבֵרֵאתָ֤ לְךָ֙ & לְךָ֖ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
Joshua is speaking to the tribes of Joseph as if they were a single person who could receive commands. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly using plural pronouns. Alternate translation: [all of you are … go up for yourselves … and you shall clear for yourselves … to all of you]
and you shall clear
Quote: וּבֵרֵאתָ֤ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and you shall clear the land]
the Perizzite
Quote: הַפְּרִזִּ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
The author is not referring to a specific Perizzite. He means the Perizzite people group in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [the Perizzites]
is narrow to you
Quote: אָ֥ץ לְךָ֖ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Joshua is using a common expression to mean there is not enough space. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [is not big enough for you]
Joshua 17:16
and a chariot of iron {is} with every Canaanite
Quote: וְרֶ֣כֶב בַּרְזֶ֗ל בְּכָל־הַֽכְּנַעֲנִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
The descendants of Joseph are not referring to a specific Canaanite or to a specific chariot. They mean the members of the Canaanite people group in general and the chariots they possess. It may be more natural in your language to express these meanings using plural forms. Alternate translation: [and the Canaanites all have iron chariots]
and a chariot of iron {is} with every Canaanite
Quote: וְרֶ֣כֶב בַּרְזֶ֗ל בְּכָל־הַֽכְּנַעֲנִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Iron, the metal, was barely used during this time period, so this is not a reference to chariots entirely made of iron. Those would have been too heavy for any practical use in warfare anyway. It is probably a reference by association to chariots whose wheels or floor were strengthened with iron or that had iron studs or points to make them more destructive when used in ramming. Alternate translation: [and chariots fitted out with iron are with every Canaanite]
and its daughters
Quote: וּבְנוֹתֶ֔יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
See how you translated this expression in 15:45 where it is used with the same meaning. Alternate translation: [and its surrounding settlements]
Joshua 17:17
to the house of Joseph
Quote: אֶל־בֵּ֣ית יוֹסֵ֔ף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The author is speaking of the tribes descended from Joseph as if they were a house. He is envisioning them as if they were one household living together. Alternate translation: [to the tribes descended from Joseph]
You {are} … is} to you. … to you
Quote: אַתָּ֗ה & לָ֔ךְ & לְךָ֖ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
Joshua is speaking of the tribes of Joseph as if they were a single person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly using plural pronouns. Alternate translation: [All of you are … is to all of you … to all of you]
There will not be one lot to you
Quote: לֹֽא־יִהְיֶ֥ה לְךָ֖ גּוֹרָ֥ל אֶחָֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives
If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a positive expression to translate this double negative that consists of the negative particle not and the term one, which is negative in this context. Alternate translation: [You will receive more than one lot]
one lot
Quote: גּוֹרָ֥ל אֶחָֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Joshua is using the term lot by association to a portion of territory assigned by lot. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [one portion of territory]
Joshua 17:18
For … For you will dispossess
Quote: כִּ֣י & כִּֽי־תוֹרִ֣ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
Joshua is using the word For in each instance to introduce the reason for what he has just said. Alternate translation: [You will have more than one portion because … This is also true because you will dispossess]
and its goings out will be to you
Quote: וְהָיָ֥ה לְךָ֖ תֹּֽצְאֹתָ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The author is using one part of the territory, its goings out or boundaries, to mean all of it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and all of that territory will belong to you]
Joshua 18
Joshua 18 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter continues the description of how Joshua divided up among the various tribes the land the Israelites conquered. It begins the description of how Joshua gave land west of the Jordan River to the remaining tribes of Israel: * Joshua sent men to survey and divide the remaining land (18:1–10) * Joshua assigned land to the tribe of Benjamin (18:11–28)
Translation Issues in This Chapter
See Part 4 of the Introduction to Joshua for a discussion of translation issues specific to the descriptions in Chapters 13–21 of territories and their borders. These issues include: 1. The author uses the idea of “inheritance” to mean a lasting possession that would be passed down to future generations. 2. The author marks travel for change in elevation. He says, for example, “went up” or “went down” rather than just “went.” 3. The author describes the location of one place relative another in the way that is characteristic of his culture. Specifically, he says from what direction someone would be approaching a new location from a location he has already named. 4. The author often says simply “the sea” when he means the Mediterranean Sea, which he calls the Great Sea when he names it. 5. The author often uses the term “sea” by association to mean the direction of the Mediterranean Sea, that is, from his perspective, the west. 6. Similarly, the author often uses the term “sunrise” by association to mean the direction in which the sun rises, that is, the east. 7. All names in border descriptions and lists are the names of cities and towns unless otherwise indicated in the biblical text, in a note, or in the UST.
Joshua 18:1
And the land was subdued to their face
Quote: וְהָאָ֥רֶץ נִכְבְּשָׁ֖ה לִפְנֵיהֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could move this clause to the beginning of the verse, since it gives the reason for the result that the rest of the verse describes. Alternate translation: [Since the land was subdued to their face]
And the land was subdued
Quote: וְהָאָ֥רֶץ נִכְבְּשָׁ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term land by association to mean the people groups who had been living in the land. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And the people groups who lived in the land were subdued]
And the land was subdued
Quote: וְהָאָ֥רֶץ נִכְבְּשָׁ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And they had subdued the land] or [And they had subdued the people groups who were living in the land]
to their face
Quote: לִפְנֵיהֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term face by association to mean what was in front of the Israelites. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [before them]
Joshua 18:2
they had not divided
Quote: לֹֽא־חָלְק֖וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun they refers to Joshua and the leaders of Israel. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [Joshua and the leaders had not divided]
their inheritance
Quote: אֶת־נַֽחֲלָתָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, here and throughout this chapter, the term inheritance means by association a lasting possession that would be passed down to future generations. Alternate translation: [a lasting possession of land]
Joshua 18:3
to the sons of Israel
Quote: אֶל־בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The context makes clear that the author is using an entire group, the sons of Israel, to mean one part of that group, the Israelite tribes that had not yet received any land. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to the leaders of those tribes]
Unto when will you slacken yourselves to enter to possess the land that Yahweh, the God of your fathers, has given to you
Quote: עַד־אָ֨נָה֙ אַתֶּ֣ם מִתְרַפִּ֔ים לָבוֹא֙ לָרֶ֣שֶׁת אֶת־הָאָ֔רֶץ אֲשֶׁר֙ נָתַ֣ן לָכֶ֔ם יְהוָ֖ה אֱלֹהֵ֥י אֲבֽוֹתֵיכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Joshua is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [You must stop being so slow to enter and take possession of the land that Yahweh, the God of your fathers, has given to you!]
your fathers
Quote: אֲבֽוֹתֵיכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Joshua is speaking as if your fathers* were the actual fathers of the current generation of Israelites. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [your ancestors]
Joshua 18:4
and they shall arise
Quote: וְיָקֻ֜מוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
As in the similar expressions in 1:2 and 6:26, Joshua is using the term arise to mean “take action.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and they will act on this matter]
according to the mouth of their inheritance
Quote: לְפִ֥י נַֽחֲלָתָ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Joshua is using the expression the mouth to mean “the needs,” since people need food to put in their mouths. Alternate translation: [according to what they need to inherit] or [according to the number of regions that these remaining tribes will need to live in]
Joshua 18:5
will stand on its border … will stand on their border
Quote: יַעֲמֹ֤ד עַל־גְּבוּלוֹ֙ & יַעַמְד֥וּ עַל־גְּבוּלָ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Joshua is using the term border by association in both instances to mean territory enclosed within borders. The word stand has the sense of “remain.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [will remain in its territory … will remain in their territory] or [will retain all of its territory … will retain all of their territory]
from the south, … from the north
Quote: מִנֶּ֔גֶב & מִצָּפֽוֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
As the Introduction to Joshua discusses, here and throughout this chapter the author describes the location of one place relative another from his own perspective and in the way that is characteristic of his culture. In your translation, express these relative locations in the way that your culture would describe them. Alternate translation: [in the south … in the north] or [in the southern part of the land of Canaan … in the northern part of the land of Canaan]
Joshua 18:6
to the face of
Quote: לִפְנֵ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Joshua is using the term face by association to mean the presence of someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in the presence of]
Joshua 18:8
And the men arose
Quote: וַיָּקֻ֥מוּ הָאֲנָשִׁ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The author is using a common expression to mean that these men took action. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And the men acted on these instructions]
Joshua 18:11
And the lot of the tribe of the sons of Benjamin according to their clans came up
Quote: וַיַּ֗עַל גּוֹרַ֛ל מַטֵּ֥ה בְנֵֽי־בִנְיָמִ֖ן לְמִשְׁפְּחֹתָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author assumes that readers will understand that he means the first lot, that is, the lot that assigned the first of these seven divisions of territory. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And when Joshua threw the lot, it selected the tribe of the sons of Benjamin according to their clans to receive the first division of the land the men had described]
And the border of their lot went out
Quote: וַיֵּצֵא֙ גְּב֣וּל גּֽוֹרָלָ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term lot by association to mean the territory that was assigned by casting lots. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And the border of their assigned territory extended]
between the sons of Judah and between the sons of Joseph
Quote: בֵּ֚ין בְּנֵ֣י יְהוּדָ֔ה וּבֵ֖ין בְּנֵ֥י יוֹסֵֽף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the terms sons of Judah and sons of Joseph by association to mean the territories of these tribes. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [between the territory of Judah’s descendants and the territory of Joseph’s descendants]
Joshua 18:12
to the mouth northward
Quote: לִפְאַ֥ת צָפ֖וֹנָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Here the word mouth has the sense of “end” or “edge,” perhaps because the mouth of an animal is typically at one end of it. Alternate translation: [on the northern end of their territory] or [on the northern edge of their territory]
the shoulder of Jericho from the north
Quote: כֶּ֨תֶף יְרִיח֜וֹ מִצָּפ֗וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
The author is speaking of the mound on which Jericho was built as if it were a living thing that had a shoulder. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the northern slope of the Jericho mound]
Joshua 18:13
to the shoulder of Luz southward
Quote: אֶל־כֶּ֤תֶף ל֨וּזָה֙ נֶ֔גְבָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
The author is speaking of the hill on which Luz was built as if it were a living thing that had a shoulder. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to the southern slope of the hill on which the city of Luz is built]
it {is} Bethel
Quote: הִ֖יא בֵּֽית־אֵ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The author is providing background information to help readers understand that the city formerly known as Luz is the one they know as Bethel. In your translation, present this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.
Joshua 18:14
that {is} on the face of Beth Horon southward
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר עַל־פְּנֵ֥י בֵית־חֹרוֹן֮ נֶגְבָּה֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term face by association to mean the area in front of something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [that is next to Beth Horon on the south]
it {is} Kiriath Jearim
Quote: הִ֚יא קִרְיַ֣ת יְעָרִ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The author is providing background information to help readers understand that the city known as Kiriath Baal is the one they know as Kiriath Jearim. In your translation, present this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.
and curved to the mouth of the sea, … This {was} the mouth of the sea
Quote: וְנָסַ֨ב לִפְאַת־יָ֜ם & זֹ֖את פְּאַת־יָֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See how you translated the similar expression in 18:12. Alternate translation: [and its western edge curved … This was the western edge of the territory]
Joshua 18:15
And the mouth southward
Quote: וּפְאַת־נֶ֕גְבָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See how you translated the similar expression in 18:12. Alternate translation: [And the southern boundary]
Joshua 18:16
that {is} on the face of the Valley of Ben Hinnom
Quote: אֲשֶׁר֙ עַל־פְּנֵי֙ גֵּ֣י בֶן־הִנֹּ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term face by association to mean the area in front of something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [that is next to the Valley of Ben Hinnom]
to the shoulder of the Jebusite southward
Quote: אֶל־כֶּ֤תֶף הַיְבוּסִי֙ נֶ֔גְבָּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the similar expression in 15:8. Alternate translation: [to the southern slope of Mount Zion]
Joshua 18:18
And it passed over to the shoulder of the front of the Arabah northward and went down to the Arabah
Quote: וְעָבַ֛ר אֶל־כֶּ֥תֶף מוּל־הָֽעֲרָבָ֖ה צָפ֑וֹנָה וְיָרַ֖ד הָעֲרָבָֽתָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
The author is speaking of the terrain as if it were a living thing that had a shoulder. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Then it continued onto the north side of the slope facing the plains and went down into the plains]
Joshua 18:19
the shoulder of Beth Hoglah northward
Quote: כֶּ֣תֶף בֵּית־חָגְלָה֮ צָפוֹנָה֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
See how you translated the similar expression in 18:12. Alternate translation: [to the northern slope of the hill on which the city of Beth Hoglah is built]
the tongue of the Sea of Salt northward
Quote: לְשׁ֤וֹן יָם־הַמֶּ֨לַח֙ צָפ֔וֹנָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
See how you translated the same expression in 15:2.
Joshua 18:20
And the Jordan borders it to the mouth eastward
Quote: וְהַיַּרְדֵּ֥ן יִגְבֹּל־אֹת֖וֹ לִפְאַת־קֵ֑דְמָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See how you translated the similar expression in 18:12. Alternate translation: [And the Jordan River is its eastern boundary]
Joshua 18:28
and the Jebusite
Quote: וְהַיְבוּסִ֨י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term Jebusite by association to mean the city in which the Jebusite people group lived. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and the city of the Jebusites]
it {is} Jerusalem
Quote: הִ֤יא יְרֽוּשָׁלִַ֨ם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The author is providing background information to help readers understand that the city of the Jebusites is the one they know as Jerusalem. In your translation, present this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.
Joshua 19
Joshua 19 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter continues the description of how Joshua divided up among the various tribes the land the Israelites conquered. It concludes the description of how Joshua gave land west of the Jordan River to the remaining tribes of Israel: * Simeon (19:1–9) * Zebulun (19:10–16) * Issachar (19:17–23) * Asher (19:24–31) * Naphtali (19:32–39) * Dan (19:40–48) The chapter also describes how the Israelites gave territory to Joshua (19:49–51)
Translation Issues in This Chapter
Ordinal numbers
In this chapter, the author uses ordinal numbers to describe the lots for each of the remaining tribes in the order in which those tribes were selected. If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use cardinal numbers or an equivalent expression.
Translation issues specific to this section
See Part 4 of the Introduction to Joshua for a discussion of translation issues specific to the descriptions in Chapters 13–21 of territories and their borders. These issues include: 1. The author uses the idea of “inheritance” to mean a lasting possession that would be passed down to future generations. 2. The author marks travel for change in elevation. He says, for example, “went up” or “went down” rather than just “went.” 3. The author describes the location of one place relative another in the way that is characteristic of his culture. Specifically, he says from what direction someone would be approaching a new location from a location he has already named. 4. The author often says simply “the sea” when he means the Mediterranean Sea, which he calls the Great Sea when he names it. 5. The author often uses the term “sea” by association to mean the direction of the Mediterranean Sea, that is, from his perspective, the west. 6. Similarly, the author often uses the term “sunrise” by association to mean the direction in which the sun rises, that is, the east. 7. All names in border descriptions and lists are the names of cities and towns unless otherwise indicated in the biblical text, in a note, or in the UST.
Joshua 19:1
And the second lot came out
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֞א הַגּוֹרָ֤ל הַשֵּׁנִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use a cardinal number here or an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: [And lot number two came out]
Joshua 19:8
Baalath Beer (Ramah of the Negev
Quote: בַּֽעֲלַ֥ת בְּאֵ֖ר רָ֣אמַת נֶ֑גֶב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The author is providing background information to help readers understand that the city known as Baalath Beer is the one they know as Ramah of the Negev. In your translation, present this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.
Joshua 19:11
is} on the face of
Quote: עַל־פְּנֵ֥י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See the Introduction to Judges for a discussion of the phrase “the face of.” Alternate translation: [is before] or [is opposite]
Joshua 19:13
being turned {toward
Quote: הַמְּתֹאָ֖ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [turning]
Joshua 19:14
it
Quote: אֹתוֹ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun it refers to Neah. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [Neah]
Joshua 19:15
And Kattath and Nahalal and Shimron and Idalah and Bethlehem
Quote: וְקַטָּ֤ת וְנַֽהֲלָל֙ וְשִׁמְר֔וֹן וְיִדְאֲלָ֖ה וּבֵ֣ית לָ֑חֶם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [And their territory included Kattath and Nahalal and Shimron and Idalah and Bethlehem]
12 cities and their villages
Quote: עָרִ֥ים שְׁתֵּים־עֶשְׂרֵ֖ה וְחַצְרֵיהֶֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author assumes that readers will understand that he is not listing all 12 of the cities that belonged to Zebulun but that the ones he does list were among them. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [these were among their 12 cities with their villages]
Joshua 19:18
And their border {was} Jezreel and Chesulloth and Shunem
Quote: וַיְהִ֖י גְּבוּלָ֑ם יִזְרְעֶ֥אלָה וְהַכְּסוּלֹ֖ת וְשׁוּנֵֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term border by association to mean the territory enclosed within borders. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And their territory included the following cities: Jezreel and Chesulloth and Shunem]
Joshua 19:25
And their border {was} Helkath and Hali and Beten and Akshaph
Quote: וַיְהִ֖י גְּבוּלָ֑ם חֶלְקַ֥ת וַחֲלִ֖י וָבֶ֥טֶן וְאַכְשָֽׁף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term border by association to mean the territory enclosed within borders. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And their territory included the following cities: Helkath and Hali and Beten and Akshaph]
Joshua 19:26
And it met with Carmel
Quote: וּפָגַ֤ע בְּכַרְמֶל֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun it refers to the border or territory of Asher. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation:
Joshua 19:27
from the left
Quote: מִשְּׂמֹֽאל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author assumes that readers will understand that he is speaking from the perspective of a person facing east, which was the customary orientation in this culture. So left means “north.” You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [to the north]
Joshua 19:29
the city of fortification of Tyre
Quote: עִ֖יר מִבְצַר־צֹ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of fortification, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [the fortified city of Tyre]
Joshua 19:30
22 cities and their villages
Quote: עָרִ֛ים עֶשְׂרִ֥ים וּשְׁתַּ֖יִם וְחַצְרֵיהֶֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author assumes that readers will understand that he is not listing all 22 of the cities that belonged to Asher but that the ones he does list were among them. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [these were among their 22 cities with their villages]
Joshua 19:35
And the cities of fortification {were
Quote: וְעָרֵ֖י מִבְצָ֑ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of fortification, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [And the fortified cities were]
Joshua 19:41
And the border of their inheritance was
Quote: וַיְהִ֖י גְּב֣וּל נַחֲלָתָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term border by association to mean the territory enclosed within borders. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And the territory that the leaders gave to them included]
Joshua 19:47
But the border of the sons of Dan went out from them
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֥א גְבוּל־בְּנֵי־דָ֖ן מֵהֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
The author is speaking of the border, here representing the territory, as if it were a living thing that could move by itself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [But enemies reconquered some of the territory of the tribe of Dan]
and they struck it to the mouth of the sword
Quote: וַיַּכּ֧וּ אוֹתָ֣הּ לְפִי־חֶ֗רֶב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the similar expression in 6:21. See the discussion of this expression in the Introduction to Joshua, and be sure that you have been translating it consistently throughout the book. Alternate translation: [and they attacked it and killed everyone who lived there]
their father Dan
Quote: דָּ֥ן אֲבִיהֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The author is speaking as if Dan were the actual father of the current generation. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [their ancestor Dan]
Joshua 19:50
Upon the mouth of Yahweh
Quote: עַל־פִּ֨י יְהוָ֜ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term mouth by association to mean the words that Yahweh spoke. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [As Yahweh had commanded]
And he built the city
Quote: וַיִּבְנֶ֥ה אֶת־הָעִ֖יר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Since the city of Timnath Serah already existed, the author seems to mean implicitly that Joshua rebuilt the city after the Israelites had attacked and conquered it or that Joshua fortified and expanded it. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And Joshua rebuilt the city] or [And Joshua fortified and expanded the city]
And he built the city
Quote: וַיִּבְנֶ֥ה אֶת־הָעִ֖יר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The author is using Joshua to represent everyone who worked to rebuild or fortify Timnath Serah. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And Joshua had the city rebuilt] or [And Joshua directed the fortification and expansion of the city]
Joshua 19:51
and the heads of the fathers of
Quote: וְרָאשֵׁ֣י הָֽאָב֣וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
See how you translated the same expression in 14:1. Alternate translation: [and the heads of the father’s houses of] or [and the men who led the extended families of]
Joshua 20
Joshua 20 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter continues the description of how Joshua divided up the land the Israelites conquered. It describes how Joshua designated certain cities to be cities of refuge (20:1–9).
Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter
Cities of refuge
If a person was murdered, in this culture it was the duty of his relatives to provide justice by killing the murderer. However, if someone was killed by accident, it would be unfair to kill the person who had killed him accidentally. Therefore, God told the Israelites to designate “cities of refuge” to which a person who killed someone accidentally could flee. In those cities, these cases would be resolved legally. (See: refuge, refugee, shelter, sheltered and avenge, avenger, revenge, vengeance and INVALID bible/kt/blood)
Translation Issues in This Chapter
Quotes in quotes
In verses 2–6, there is a long quotation within a quotation. Yahweh tells Joshua something that he is to tell the people of Israel. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Notes suggest how to do that in the cases of verses 2 and 3. The rest of the second-level quotation can be made a first-level quotation without any changes in the wording.
Relative locations
In listing the cities of refuge, the author often describes the location of one place relative another in the way that is characteristic of his culture. Specifically, he says from what direction someone would be approaching a new location from a location he has already named. Translate these descriptions the way you have done in the previous part of this section of the book of Joshua.
Joshua 20:2
Speak to the sons of Israel, saying, ‘Give for yourselves the cities of refuge that I spoke to you by the hand of Moses
Quote: דַּבֵּ֛ר אֶל־בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל לֵאמֹ֑ר תְּנ֤וּ לָכֶם֙ אֶת־עָרֵ֣י הַמִּקְלָ֔ט אֲשֶׁר־דִּבַּ֥רְתִּי אֲלֵיכֶ֖ם בְּיַד־מֹשֶֽׁה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [Speak to the sons of Israel and tell them to give for themselves the cities of refuge that I spoke to them about by the hand of Moses]
by the hand of Moses
Quote: בְּיַד־מֹשֶֽׁה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
See how you translated the same expression in 14:2. Alternate translation: [through Moses]
Joshua 20:3
for you
Quote: לָכֶם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
If you have decided to translate the quotation within a quotation in verses 2–6 as an indirect quotation, it will be appropriate to use the third person here. Alternate translation: [for them]
from the avenger of blood
Quote: מִגֹּאֵ֖ל הַדָּֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
In this culture, an avenger of blood was a close relative who had the right and responsibility to execute someone who had murdered one of his relatives. If your readers would not be familiar with this role, in your translation you could use a descriptive phrase. Alternate translation: [from a relative who has the right to execute someone who has murdered his relative]
Joshua 20:4
And he shall flee
Quote: וְנָ֞ס (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun he refers here to anyone who has killed someone accidentally. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And the person who has killed someone accidentally shall flee]
and he shall speak his words in the ears of the elders of that city
Quote: וְדִבֶּ֛ר בְּאָזְנֵ֛י זִקְנֵ֥י־הָעִֽיר הַהִ֖יא אֶת־דְּבָרָ֑יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Yahweh is using the term words to mean what this person would say by using words, and he is using the term ears by association to mean hearing and understanding. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and he shall explain his situation to the elders of that city so that they understand it]
Joshua 20:5
from yesterday {or} the third day
Quote: מִתְּמ֥וֹל שִׁלְשֽׁוֹם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the same expression in 3:4. Alternate translation: [in the past]
Joshua 20:6
to the face of
Quote: לִפְנֵ֤י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See the Introduction to Judges for a discussion of the phrase “to the face of.” Alternate translation: [before]
for judgment
Quote: לַמִּשְׁפָּ֔ט (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of judgment, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [to judge his case] or [to decide whether he is actually guilty of murder]
until the death of the great priest
Quote: עַד־מוֹת֙ הַכֹּהֵ֣ן הַגָּד֔וֹל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
Yahweh is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and even if he is found innocent, he must still remain there until the death of the high priest]
who is in those days
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר יִהְיֶ֖ה בַּיָּמִ֣ים הָהֵ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Yahweh is using the expression in those days by association to mean “serving as high priest at that time.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [who is serving at that time]
Joshua 20:7
it is Hebron
Quote: הִ֥יא חֶבְר֖וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The author is providing background information to help readers understand that the city he calls Kiriath Arba is the one they know as Hebron. In your translation, present this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.
Joshua 20:9
the cities of appointment
Quote: עָרֵ֨י הַמּֽוּעָדָ֜ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of appointment, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [the cities that were appointed]
Joshua 21
Joshua 21 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter concludes the description of how Joshua divided up the land the Israelites conquered. It describes how Joshua designated certain cities for the Levites to live in, since they had no tribal territory of their own (21:1–45).
Ellipsis
In many places in this chapter, the author leaves out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Notes suggest approaches to this issue in several specific instances. (See: Ellipsis)
Joshua 21:1
the heads of the fathers of … and to the heads of the fathers of
Quote: רָאשֵׁי֙ אֲב֣וֹת & וְאֶל־רָאשֵׁ֛י אֲב֥וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
See how you translated the same expression in 14:1. Alternate translation: [the heads of the father’s houses of … and to the heads of the father’s houses of] or [the men who led the extended families of … and to the men who led the extended families of]
Joshua 21:2
by the hand of Moses
Quote: בְיַד־מֹשֶׁ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
See how you translated the same expression in 14:2. Alternate translation: [through Moses]
Joshua 21:3
upon the mouth of Yahweh
Quote: אֶל־פִּ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the same expression in 19:50. Alternate translation: [as Yahweh had commanded]
Joshua 21:4
And the lot came out for the clans of the Kohathite. And for the sons of Aaron the priest, from the Levites, there were 13 cities by the lot from the tribe of Judah and from the tribe of the Simeonite and from the tribe of Benjamin
Quote: וַיֵּצֵ֥א הַגּוֹרָ֖ל לְמִשְׁפְּחֹ֣ת הַקְּהָתִ֑י וַיְהִ֡י לִבְנֵי֩ אַהֲרֹ֨ן הַכֹּהֵ֜ן מִן־הַלְוִיִּ֗ם מִמַּטֵּ֣ה יְ֠הוּדָה וּמִמַּטֵּ֨ה הַשִּׁמְעֹנִ֜י וּמִמַּטֵּ֤ה בִנְיָמִן֙ בַּגּוֹרָ֔ל עָרִ֖ים שְׁלֹ֥שׁ עֶשְׂרֵֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author assumes that readers will understand that the leaders decided to assign cities to the groups of Levites in a particular order (Kohathite priests, Kohathite non-priests, Gershonites, and Merarites) and then cast lots to see which cities would go to each group. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [The leaders started by casting lots to decide which cities would belong to the Levites from the Kohathite clan who were priests, descendants of Aaron. The lot selected 13 cities for them]
Joshua 21:5
And for the remaining sons of Kohath
Quote: וְלִבְנֵ֨י קְהָ֜ת הַנּוֹתָרִ֗ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author assumes that readers will understand what he means by remaining. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And for the descendants of Kohath who were not priests, descendants of Aaron]
Joshua 21:8
by the hand of Moses
Quote: בְּיַד־מֹשֶׁ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
See how you translated the same expression in 14:2. Alternate translation: [through Moses]
Joshua 21:9
which one calls them by name
Quote: אֲשֶׁר־יִקְרָ֥א אֶתְהֶ֖ן בְּשֵֽׁם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Here, one is an indefinite pronoun that does not have a specific referent in the immediate context. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this with a different expression that does not use an indefinite pronoun. Alternate translation: [which are mentioned here by name]
Joshua 21:10
the first lot
Quote: הַגּוֹרָ֖ל רִיאשֹׁנָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use a cardinal number here or an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: [lot number one]
Joshua 21:11
Kiriath Arba (the father of the Anak, it is Hebron
Quote: אֶת־קִרְיַת֩ אַרְבַּ֨ע אֲבִ֧י הָֽעֲנ֛וֹק הִ֥יא חֶבְר֖וֹן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
See how you presented the similar background information that the author provides in 14:15 about the former and current name of this city.
Joshua 21:17
And from the tribe of Benjamin
Quote: וּמִמַּטֵּ֣ה בִנְיָמִ֔ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [And from the tribe of Benjamin they gave these cities:]
Joshua 21:20
the remaining ones from the sons of Kohath
Quote: הַנּוֹתָרִ֖ים מִבְּנֵ֣י קְהָ֑ת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author assumes that readers will understand what he means by remaining. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [the descendants of Kohath who were not priests]
Joshua 21:21
and Gezer and its pasturelands
Quote: וְאֶת־גֶּ֖זֶר וְאֶת־מִגְרָשֶֽׁהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and they gave them Gezer and its pasturelands]
Joshua 21:26
were} for the remaining clans of the sons of Kohath
Quote: לְמִשְׁפְּח֥וֹת בְּנֵֽי־קְהָ֖ת הַנּוֹתָרִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See how you translated the similar expression in 21:5. Alternate translation: [were for the clans of Kohath’s descendants who were not priests]
Joshua 21:34
the remaining Levites
Quote: הַלְוִיִּ֣ם הַנּוֹתָרִים֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
In this case, the term remaining means something different than it did in verses 5 and 26. The author is using it to refer implicitly to the last group of Levites, which had not yet received any cities. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [the group of Levites that was still waiting to receive cities]
Joshua 21:40
the remaining ones from the clans of the Levites
Quote: הַנּוֹתָרִ֖ים מִמִּשְׁפְּח֣וֹת הַלְוִיִּ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See how you translated the similar expression in 21:34. Alternate translation: [the clan of Levites that was still waiting to receive cities]
Joshua 21:42
These cities were city, city, and its pasturelands around it
Quote: תִּֽהְיֶ֨ינָה֙ הֶעָרִ֣ים הָאֵ֔לֶּה עִ֣יר עִ֔יר וּמִגְרָשֶׁ֖יהָ סְבִיבֹתֶ֑יהָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The author is using a common expression to mean that this was true of each city individually. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Each one of these cities had its own pasturelands around it]
Joshua 21:43
to their fathers
Quote: לַאֲבוֹתָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The author is speaking as if their fathers were the actual fathers of the current generation of Israelites. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to their ancestors]
Joshua 21:44
to their fathers
Quote: לַאֲבוֹתָ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The author is speaking as if these people were the actual fathers of the current generation. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. See how you translated this expression in the previous verse.
And a man did not stand against their faces from all of their enemies
Quote: וְלֹא־עָ֨מַד אִ֤ישׁ בִּפְנֵיהֶם֙ מִכָּל־אֹ֣יְבֵיהֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the similar expression in 1:5 and 2:11. Alternate translation: [Not a single one of their enemies had been able to resist them]
Joshua 21:45
A word did not fall from every good word that Yahweh had spoken to the house of Israel
Quote: לֹֽא־נָפַ֣ל דָּבָ֔ר מִכֹּל֙ הַדָּבָ֣ר הַטּ֔וֹב אֲשֶׁר־דִּבֶּ֥ר יְהוָ֖ה אֶל־בֵּ֣ית יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The author is speaking as if Yahweh’s words were objects that could fall to the ground and be lost. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Not a single one of the good words Yahweh had spoken to the house of Israel failed to come true]
The whole came
Quote: הַכֹּ֖ל בָּֽא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
The author is speaking of the whole (that is, everything that Yahweh had promised) as if it were a living thing that could come somewhere. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Everything happened just as he said it would]
Joshua 22
Joshua 22 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter describes how Joshua dismissed the armies of the tribes that had settled on the east side of the Jordan River. It also describes how they built an altar to remind their descendants to worship Yahweh and how they resolved a misunderstanding about this altar with the other Israelites (22:1–34).
Translation Issues in This Chapter
Quotations within quotations
In verses 16–20 and 22–29, there are long quotations that include quotations within quotations and, in verses 24–25, 27, and 28, quotations within quotations within quotations. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate these so that there are not a quotations within quotations. Notes suggest ways to do this.
“the sons of Israel”
While this phrase typically refers to all of the Israelites, in this chapter it means specifically the people of the tribes that settled on the west side of the Jordan River. Be sure that this meaning is clear in your translation.
“brothers”
In this chapter, Joshua and the author use the term “brothers” to mean people who are descended from the same ancestor. In your translation, you may wish to communicate this meaning by using an expression such as “fellow Israelites.” (See: Metaphor)
“tents”
Joshua uses the name of one kind of dwelling, “tents,” to mean all kinds of dwellings. In your translation, you may wish to communicate this meaning by using a word such as “homes.” (See: Synecdoche)
“tomorrow”
In this chapter, characters use the word “tomorrow” several times to mean “in the future.” You may wish to use that phrase in your translation to communicate the meaning.
Joshua 22:1
to the Reubenite and to the Gadite
Quote: לָרֽאוּבֵנִ֖י וְלַגָּדִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
The author is not referring to specific individuals. He means the members of these tribes in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using plural forms. Alternate translation: [to the Reubenites and to the Gadites]
Joshua 22:2
And you have listened to my voice according to all that I have commanded you
Quote: וַתִּשְׁמְע֣וּ בְקוֹלִ֔י לְכֹ֥ל אֲשֶׁר־צִוִּ֖יתִי אֶתְכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Joshua is using the term voice by association to mean the commands he gave by using his voice. He is using the word listened by association to mean complying with what he said. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use equivalent expressions or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And you have obeyed all my commands that I have commanded you]
Joshua 22:3
your brothers
Quote: אֶת־אֲחֵיכֶ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
As the Introduction to this chapter discusses, Joshua is using the term brothers to describe people who are descended from the same ancestor. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [your fellow Israelites]
many days
Quote: יָמִ֣ים רַבִּ֔ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term days by association to refer to time, since time is made up of days. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [all this time]
to this day
Quote: עַ֖ד הַיּ֣וֹם הַזֶּ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the phrase to this day in 4:9. Alternate translation: [right up to this time]
but you have kept the keeping of the commandments of Yahweh your God
Quote: וּשְׁמַרְתֶּ֕ם אֶת־מִשְׁמֶ֕רֶת מִצְוַ֖ת יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֵיכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry
For emphasis, the author is using a construction in which a verb and its object come from the same root. You may be able to use the same construction in your language to express the meaning here. Alternatively, your language may have another way of showing the emphasis. Alternate translation: [but you have carefully kept the commandments of Yahweh your God]
Joshua 22:4
to your tents
Quote: לְאָהֳלֵיכֶ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
As the Introduction to this chapter discusses, Joshua is using one kind of home, tents, to mean all kinds of homes. (Not all Israelites lived in tents.) If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to your homes]
Joshua 22:5
to do the commandment and the instruction that Moses, the servant of Yahweh, commanded you
Quote: לַעֲשׂ֨וֹת אֶת־הַמִּצְוָ֣ה וְאֶת־הַתּוֹרָה֮ אֲשֶׁ֣ר צִוָּ֣ה אֶתְכֶם֮ מֹשֶׁ֣ה עֶֽבֶד־יְהוָה֒ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The terms commandment and instruction mean similar things. Joshua is using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [to do everything that Moses, the servant of Yahweh commanded you]
and to walk in all of his ways
Quote: וְלָלֶ֧כֶת בְּכָל־דְּרָכָ֛יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Joshua is speaking as if following Yahweh’s commands were like walking on a path. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and to live as he has commanded]
and to cling to him
Quote: וּלְדָבְקָה־ב֑וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Joshua is speaking as if the Israelites could physically hold onto Yahweh. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and to remain completely loyal to him]
with all of your heart
Quote: בְּכָל־לְבַבְכֶ֖ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Joshua is using the term heart figuratively to mean thoughts and feelings. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [with all of your thoughts and feelings]
and with all of your soul
Quote: וּבְכָל־נַפְשְׁכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Joshua is using the word soul to refer implicitly to a person’s deepest commitments. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and in everything you commit yourself to do]
Joshua 22:7
Moses had given … Joshua gave
Quote: נָתַ֣ן מֹשֶׁה֮ & נָתַ֤ן יְהוֹשֻׁ֨עַ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [Moses had given land … Joshua gave land]
Joshua 22:9
the sons of Israel
Quote: בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
As the Introduction to this chapter discusses, the author is using a phrase that describes all of the Israelites, the sons of Israel, to mean part of them, the ones who settled on the west side of the Jordan. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly, here and in the rest of the chapter. Alternate translation: [the other Israelites] or [the western Israelites]
upon the mouth of Yahweh
Quote: עַל־פִּ֥י יְהוָ֖ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the same expression in 19:50. Alternate translation: [as Yahweh had commanded]
by the hand of Moses
Quote: בְּיַד־מֹשֶֽׁה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the same expression in 14:2. Alternate translation: [through Moses]
Joshua 22:10
the regions of the Jordan that are in the land of Canaan
Quote: גְּלִיל֣וֹת הַיַּרְדֵּ֔ן אֲשֶׁ֖ר בְּאֶ֣רֶץ כְּנָ֑עַן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This could be a proper name. Alternate translation: [Geliloth near the Jordan, which is in the land of Canaan]
Joshua 22:13
the priest
Quote: הַכֹּהֵֽן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author assumes that readers will know that he is describing Phinehas as the high priest. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [the high priest]
Joshua 22:14
one leader, one leader, to the house of the father to all of the tribes of Israel. And they {were} a man, the head of the house of their fathers to the thousands of Israel
Quote: נָשִׂ֨יא אֶחָ֜ד נָשִׂ֤יא אֶחָד֙ לְבֵ֣ית אָ֔ב לְכֹ֖ל מַטּ֣וֹת יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל וְאִ֨ישׁ רֹ֧אשׁ בֵּית־אֲבוֹתָ֛ם הֵ֖מָּה לְאַלְפֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
These two phrases mean basically the same thing. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: [one leader from each of the tribes of Israel, each one being the head of a clan]
one leader, one leader, to the house of the father to all of the tribes of Israel
Quote: נָשִׂ֨יא אֶחָ֜ד נָשִׂ֤יא אֶחָד֙ לְבֵ֣ית אָ֔ב לְכֹ֖ל מַטּ֣וֹת יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The author is using a common expression to mean that there was one leader from each tribe. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [there was one leader of a father’s house from each of the Israelite tribes]
And … a man
Quote: וְאִ֨ישׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants
The author is using the phrase a man to introduce each leader as a new participant in the story. If your language has its own way of introducing new participants, you can use it here in your translation.
to the thousands of Israel
Quote: לְאַלְפֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The author is using the word thousands in one of its implicit senses to mean clans. You could express this meaning in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [from one of the clans of Israel]
Joshua 22:16
Thus says all of the congregation of Yahweh: ‘What is this unfaithfulness that you have done unfaithfully
Quote: כֹּ֣ה אָמְר֞וּ כֹּ֣ל ׀ עֲדַ֣ת יְהוָ֗ה מָֽה־הַמַּ֤עַל הַזֶּה֙ אֲשֶׁ֤ר מְעַלְתֶּם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
See the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter of the long quotation within a quotation in verses 16–20. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. It should be sufficient just to change this introduction in order to make all of these verses a first-level direct quotation. Alternate translation: [All of the congregation of Yahweh wants to know what this unfaithfulness is that you have done]
What is this unfaithfulness that you have done unfaithfully against the God of Israel, to turn today from after Yahweh in your building for yourselves an altar today for your rebelling against Yahweh
Quote: מָֽה־הַמַּ֤עַל הַזֶּה֙ אֲשֶׁ֤ר מְעַלְתֶּם֙ בֵּאלֹהֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל לָשׁ֣וּב הַיּ֔וֹם מֵאַחֲרֵ֖י יְהוָ֑ה בִּבְנֽוֹתְכֶ֤ם לָכֶם֙ מִזְבֵּ֔חַ לִמְרָדְכֶ֥ם הַיּ֖וֹם בַּיהוָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The representatives of the western tribes are using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [You have unfaithfully done unfaithfulness against the God of Israel by turning away from Yahweh and building an altar for yourselves in rebellion against him!]
What is this unfaithfulness that you have done unfaithfully
Quote: מָֽה־הַמַּ֤עַל הַזֶּה֙ אֲשֶׁ֤ר מְעַלְתֶּם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry
For emphasis, the western representatives are using a construction in which a verb and its object come from the same root. You may be able to use the same construction in your language to express the meaning here. Alternatively, your language may have another way of showing the emphasis. Alternate translation: [What is this great unfaithfulness that you have done]
to turn today from after Yahweh
Quote: לָשׁ֣וּב הַיּ֔וֹם מֵאַחֲרֵ֖י יְהוָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The western representatives are speaking as if following Yahweh were like walking behind him on a path. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to stop being loyal to Yahweh]
Joshua 22:17
Was} the iniquity of Peor little for us, from which we have not purified ourselves to this day
Quote: הַמְעַט־לָ֨נוּ֙ אֶת־עֲוֺ֣ן פְּע֔וֹר אֲשֶׁ֤ר לֹֽא־הִטַּהַ֨רְנוּ֙ מִמֶּ֔נּוּ עַ֖ד הַיּ֣וֹם הַזֶּ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The western representatives are using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [The sin we committed at Peor was very serious, and we have not purified ourselves from it to this day!]
Was} the iniquity of Peor little for us
Quote: הַמְעַט־לָ֨נוּ֙ אֶת־עֲוֺ֣ן פְּע֔וֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony
The western representatives are not suggesting seriously that the eastern tribes might consider the sin the Israelites committed at Peor to have been too little. They actually mean to communicate emphatically the opposite of the literal meaning of their words. Alternate translation: [Certainly you consider the sin we committed at Peor to have been very serious]
Joshua 22:18
And will you yourselves turn today from after Yahweh
Quote: וְאַתֶּם֙ תָּשֻׁ֣בוּ הַיּ֔וֹם מֵאַחֲרֵ֖י יְהוָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The western representatives are using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [You must not turn away from following Yahweh!]
And will you yourselves turn today from after Yahweh
Quote: וְאַתֶּם֙ תָּשֻׁ֣בוּ הַיּ֔וֹם מֵאַחֲרֵ֖י יְהוָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The western representatives are speaking as if following Yahweh were like walking behind him on a path. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And will you yourselves stop being loyal to Yahweh]
today, then tomorrow
Quote: הַיּוֹם֙ & וּמָחָ֕ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The western representatives are using characteristic expressions of their culture. By today*, they mean “now,” and by tomorrow**, they mean “in the future.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [now, then in the future]
Joshua 22:19
if the land of your possession {is} unclean
Quote: אִם־טְמֵאָ֜ה אֶ֣רֶץ אֲחֻזַּתְכֶ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Interpreters have different understandings of why the representatives of the western tribes suggest that the eastern tribes may think their land is unclean. The UST expresses one likely interpretation.
where the dwelling of Yahweh dwells there
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֤ר שָֽׁכַן־שָׁם֙ מִשְׁכַּ֣ן יְהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo
It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would be unnatural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [where Yahweh’s dwelling is]
where the dwelling of Yahweh dwells there
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֤ר שָֽׁכַן־שָׁם֙ מִשְׁכַּ֣ן יְהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry
For emphasis, the western representatives are using a construction in which a verb and its object come from the same root. You may be able to use the same construction in your language to express the meaning here. Alternatively, your language may have another way of showing the emphasis. Alternate translation: [where Yahweh truly dwells]
Joshua 22:20
Did} not Achan, the son of Zerah, act unfaithfully in unfaithfulness with the devoted thing, and wrath was on all of the congregation of Israel
Quote: הֲל֣וֹא ׀ עָכָ֣ן בֶּן־זֶ֗רַח מָ֤עַל מַ֨עַל֙ בַּחֵ֔רֶם וְעַֽל־כָּל־עֲדַ֥ת יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל הָ֣יָה קָ֑צֶף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The western representatives are using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [When Achan, the son of Zerah, acted unfaithfully in unfaithfulness with the devoted thing, wrath was on all of the assembly of Israel!]
act unfaithfully in unfaithfulness
Quote: מָ֤עַל מַ֨עַל֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry
For emphasis, the western representatives are using a construction in which a verb and its object come from the same root. You may be able to use the same construction in your language to express the meaning here. Alternatively, your language may have another way of showing the emphasis. Alternate translation: [acted so unfaithfully]
And he did not perish, one man, in his iniquity
Quote: וְהוּא֙ אִ֣ישׁ אֶחָ֔ד לֹ֥א גָוַ֖ע בַּעֲוֺנֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes
The western representatives are expressing a positive meaning by using a negative word, not, together with a term that is the opposite of their intended meaning, one. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Many other people died because of his iniquity]
Joshua 22:21
And … answered and spoke with the heads of
Quote: וַֽיַּעֲנוּ֙ & וַֽיְדַבְּר֔וּ אֶת־רָאשֵׁ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys
This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word spoke tells in what way they answered. Alternate translation: [And … responded to the heads of]
Joshua 22:22
Yahweh {is} God of gods! Yahweh {is} God of gods
Quote: אֵל֩ ׀ אֱלֹהִ֨ים ׀ יְהוָ֜ה אֵ֣ל ׀ אֱלֹהִ֤ים ׀ יְהוָה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication
The representatives of the eastern tribes are repeating this statement in order to intensify its meaning. 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: [Yahweh is most certainly the God of gods!]
Yahweh {is} God of gods
Quote: אֵל֩ ׀ אֱלֹהִ֨ים ׀ יְהוָ֜ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations
The eastern representatives are using a phrase that expresses a strong feeling, conviction. There may be an equivalent exclamation in your language that you can use in your translation to convey this strong feeling. If not, you could say what the representatives were feeling. Alternate translation: [We are absolutely convinced that Yahweh is the supreme God!]
If in rebellion or if in unfaithfulness against Yahweh
Quote: אִם־בְּמֶ֤רֶד וְאִם־בְּמַ֨עַל֙ בַּֽיהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The eastern representatives are leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [If we have done this in rebellion or in unfaithfulness against Yahweh]
do not save us
Quote: אַל־תּוֹשִׁיעֵ֖נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives
If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a positive expression to translate this double negative that consists of the negative particle not and the verb save, which would be negative under the condition stated. Alternate translation: [punish us with death]
Joshua 22:23
To build an altar for ourselves
Quote: לִבְנ֥וֹת לָ֨נוּ֙ מִזְבֵּ֔חַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [If it was to build for ourselves an altar]
to turn from after Yahweh
Quote: לָשׁ֖וּב מֵאַחֲרֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The eastern representatives are speaking as if following Yahweh were like walking behind him on a path. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to stop being loyal to Yahweh]
Yahweh himself will seek
Quote: יְהוָ֖ה ה֥וּא יְבַקֵּֽשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The eastern representatives are using a common expression to mean that Yahweh will investigate and punish wrongdoing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [may Yahweh investigate what we have done and punish us for it]
Joshua 22:24
But if not from anxiety from a matter we did this
Quote: וְאִם־לֹ֤א מִדְּאָגָה֙ מִדָּבָ֔ר עָשִׂ֥ינוּ אֶת־זֹ֖את (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions
The eastern representatives mean that they did not build the altar for any reason if it was not for the one that they state. If it would appear in your language that they were making a statement and then contradicting it, you could reword this as a positive statement. Alternate translation: [No, the only reason we did this was from anxiety from a matter]
saying, ‘Tomorrow your sons might speak to our sons, saying, “What to you and to Yahweh, the God of Israel
Quote: לֵאמֹ֑ר מָחָ֗ר יֹאמְר֨וּ בְנֵיכֶ֤ם לְבָנֵ֨ינוּ֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר מַה־לָּכֶ֕ם וְלַֽיהוָ֖ה אֱלֹהֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks
There are three levels of quotation here. The Reubenites, Gadites, and half tribe of Manasseh are speaking (level 1) and telling the Israelites leaders what they were saying (or thinking) to themselves (level 2) that their sons might say to them in the future (level 3). Use the appropriate punctuation in your language to mark these levels of quotation. Alternatively, you could translate this so that there is not a third-level quotation (see the Quotes within Quotes note).
saying, ‘Tomorrow your sons might speak to our sons, saying, “What to you and to Yahweh, the God of Israel
Quote: לֵאמֹ֑ר מָחָ֗ר יֹאמְר֨וּ בְנֵיכֶ֤ם לְבָנֵ֨ינוּ֙ לֵאמֹ֔ר מַה־לָּכֶ֕ם וְלַֽיהוָ֖ה אֱלֹהֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation and another quotation within that one. See the Introduction to this chapter for a discussion of the long quotation in verses 24–28 that includes second-level and third-level quotations. Alternate translation: [thinking that tomorrow your sons might speak to our sons and ask them what to them and to Yahweh, the God of Israel]
your sons … our sons
Quote: בְנֵיכֶ֤ם לְבָנֵ֨ינוּ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The eastern representatives are speaking of future generations as if they were the actual sons of the current generation. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [your descendants … our descendants]
What to you and to Yahweh, the God of Israel
Quote: מַה־לָּכֶ֕ם וְלַֽיהוָ֖ה אֱלֹהֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The eastern representatives are using a common expression of their culture. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [What relationship do you have with Yahweh, the God of Israel?]
What to you and to Yahweh, the God of Israel
Quote: מַה־לָּכֶ֕ם וְלַֽיהוָ֖ה אֱלֹהֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The eastern representatives are using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [You have no relationship with Yahweh, the God of Israel!]
Joshua 22:25
For Yahweh has given a border between us and between you sons of Reuben and sons of Gad, the Jordan. No portion {is} for you in Yahweh
Quote: וּגְב֣וּל נָֽתַן־יְ֠הוָה בֵּינֵ֨נוּ וּבֵינֵיכֶ֜ם בְּנֵי־רְאוּבֵ֤ן וּבְנֵי־גָד֙ אֶת־הַיַּרְדֵּ֔ן אֵין־לָכֶ֥ם חֵ֖לֶק בַּֽיהוָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [We were concerned that your descendants would say that Yahweh had put a border between them and our descendants from the tribes of Reuben and Gad, the Jordan, so that they had no portion in Yahweh]
No portion {is} for you in Yahweh
Quote: אֵין־לָכֶ֥ם חֵ֖לֶק בַּֽיהוָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The eastern representatives are speaking as if Yahweh were a territory of which a person or group could have a portion. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [You have no relationship with Yahweh]
Joshua 22:26
So we said, ‘Let us now do to build for ourselves an altar
Quote: וַנֹּ֕אמֶר נַעֲשֶׂה־נָּ֣א לָ֔נוּ לִבְנ֖וֹת אֶת־הַמִּזְבֵּ֑חַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [So we said to ourselves that we should now do to build for ourselves an altar]
Let us now do to build
Quote: נַעֲשֶׂה־נָּ֣א & לִבְנ֖וֹת (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo
It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would be unnatural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [Let us build]
not for a burnt offering and not for a sacrifice
Quote: לֹ֥א לְעוֹלָ֖ה וְלֹ֥א לְזָֽבַח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
The eastern representatives are not referring to specific offerings or sacrifices. They mean those things in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using plural forms. Alternate translation: [not for burnt offerings or sacrifices]
Joshua 22:27
but it {will be} a witness between us and between you
Quote: כִּי֩ עֵ֨ד ה֜וּא בֵּינֵ֣ינוּ וּבֵינֵיכֶ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [but as a witness between us and the western tribes]
our generations
Quote: דֹּרוֹתֵינוּ֮ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
The eastern representatives are using the pronoun our to refer to their generations and those of their listeners, so use the inclusive form of that pronoun if your language marks that distinction.
to serve the service of Yahweh
Quote: לַעֲבֹ֞ד אֶת־עֲבֹדַ֤ת יְהוָה֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry
For emphasis, the eastern representatives are using a construction in which a verb and its object come from the same root. You may be able to use the same construction in your language to express the meaning here. Alternatively, your language may have another way of showing the emphasis. Alternate translation: [to serve Yahweh diligently]
to his face
Quote: לְפָנָ֔יו (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The representatives of the eastern tribes are using the term face by association to mean the presence of someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in his presence] or [at the tent of meeting]
And your sons will not say to our sons tomorrow, “No portion {is} for you in Yahweh
Quote: וְלֹא־יֹאמְר֨וּ בְנֵיכֶ֤ם מָחָר֙ לְבָנֵ֔ינוּ אֵין־לָכֶ֥ם חֵ֖לֶק בַּיהוָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [That way their descendants would not tell our descendants in the future that they had no portion in Yahweh]
Joshua 22:28
And we said, ‘And it will happen, if they speak to us, or to our generations tomorrow, that we will say, “See, a copy of the altar of Yahweh that our fathers made, not for a burnt offering and not for a sacrifice, but it {is} a witness between us and between you
Quote: וַנֹּ֕אמֶר וְהָיָ֗ה כִּֽי־יֹאמְר֥וּ אֵלֵ֛ינוּ וְאֶל־דֹּרֹתֵ֖ינוּ מָחָ֑ר וְאָמַ֡רְנוּ רְא֣וּ אֶת־תַּבְנִית֩ מִזְבַּ֨ח יְהוָ֜ה אֲשֶׁר־עָשׂ֣וּ אֲבוֹתֵ֗ינוּ לֹ֤א לְעוֹלָה֙ וְלֹ֣א לְזֶ֔בַח כִּי־עֵ֣ד ה֔וּא בֵּינֵ֖ינוּ וּבֵינֵיכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [And we decided that if they spoke to us or to our descendants in the future, we would show them that this was a copy of Yahweh’s altar, not for offerings or sacrifices, but as a witness between us and them]
our fathers
Quote: אֲבוֹתֵ֗ינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The eastern representatives are speaking as if our fathers were the actual fathers of the current generation of Israelites. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [our ancestors]
not for a burnt offering and not for a sacrifice
Quote: לֹ֤א לְעוֹלָה֙ וְלֹ֣א לְזֶ֔בַח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
The eastern representatives are not referring to specific offerings or sacrifices. They mean these things in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using plural forms. Alternate translation: [not for burnt offerings or sacrifices]
Joshua 22:29
Profane to us from him, to rebel
Quote: חָלִילָה֩ לָּ֨נוּ מִמֶּ֜נּוּ לִמְרֹ֣ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The eastern representatives are using a common expression to express their horror at the idea they describe. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [God forbid that we should rebel]
and turn today from after Yahweh
Quote: וְלָשׁ֤וּב הַיּוֹם֙ מֵאַחֲרֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The eastern representatives are speaking as if following Yahweh were like walking behind him on a path. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and stop being loyal today to Yahweh]
for a burnt offering, for a grain offering, or for a sacrifice
Quote: לְעֹלָ֖ה לְמִנְחָ֣ה וּלְזָ֑בַח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
The eastern representatives are not referring to specific offerings or sacrifices. They mean these things in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using plural forms. Alternate translation: [for burnt offerings, grain offerings, or sacrifices]
is to the face of
Quote: לִפְנֵ֥י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See the Introduction to Judges for a discussion of the phrase “to the face of.” Alternate translation: [is before] or [stands before]
Joshua 22:30
and the leaders of the congregation and the heads of the thousands of Israel
Quote: וּנְשִׂיאֵ֨י הָעֵדָ֜ה וְרָאשֵׁ֨י אַלְפֵ֤י יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The terms mean similar things. The author is using them together for emphasis and clarity. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [and the Israelite clan leaders whom the assembly had chosen]
the words that the sons of Reuben and the sons of Gad and the sons of Manasseh spoke
Quote: אֶת־הַ֨דְּבָרִ֔ים אֲשֶׁ֧ר דִּבְּר֛וּ בְּנֵי־רְאוּבֵ֥ן וּבְנֵי־גָ֖ד וּבְנֵ֣י מְנַשֶּׁ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term words by association to mean what the eastern representatives said by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the explanation that the people of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh had given]
And it was good in their eyes
Quote: וַיִּיטַ֖ב בְּעֵינֵיהֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term eyes by association to mean sight. Sight, in turn, represents perspective and judgment. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And they judged this to be a good reason for building the altar]
Joshua 22:31
Today we know that Yahweh {is} in the midst of us, that you have not acted unfaithfully in this unfaithfulness against Yahweh
Quote: הַיּ֤וֹם ׀ יָדַ֨עְנוּ֙ כִּֽי־בְתוֹכֵ֣נוּ יְהוָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֛ר לֹֽא־מְעַלְתֶּ֥ם בַּֽיהוָ֖ה הַמַּ֣עַל הַזֶּ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because you have not acted unfaithfully in this unfaithfulness against Yahweh, we know that Yahweh is in the midst of us]
Yahweh {is} in the midst of us
Quote: בְתוֹכֵ֣נוּ יְהוָ֔ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Phinehas means implicitly that Yahweh has come into the midst of his people in order to help them. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [Yahweh must be here helping us]
you have not acted unfaithfully in this unfaithfulness against Yahweh
Quote: לֹֽא־מְעַלְתֶּ֥ם בַּֽיהוָ֖ה הַמַּ֣עַל הַזֶּ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry
For emphasis, Phinehas is using a construction in which a verb and its object come from the same root. You may be able to use the same construction in your language to express the meaning here. Alternatively, your language may have another way of showing the emphasis. Alternate translation: [you have not been unfaithful to Yahweh at all]
Joshua 22:32
from with the sons of Reuben and from with the sons of Gad
Quote: מֵאֵ֣ת בְּנֵֽי־רְאוּבֵן֩ וּמֵאֵ֨ת בְּנֵי־גָ֜ד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The author is using some of the eastern tribes, Reuben and Gad, to represent all of them, including Manasseh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly, here and in the next two verses. Alternate translation: [from with the sons of Reuben and from with the sons of Gad and from with the sons of Manasseh]
a word
Quote: דָּבָֽר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term word by association to mean a report that the leaders used words to convey. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [a report]
Joshua 22:33
And the word was good in the eyes of the sons of Israel
Quote: וַיִּיטַ֣ב הַדָּבָ֗ר בְּעֵינֵי֙ בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the similar expression in 22:30. Alternate translation: [And the Israelites judged this to be a good explanation]
Joshua 22:34
For it {is} a witness between us that Yahweh {is} God
Quote: כִּ֣י עֵ֥ד הוּא֙ בֵּֽינֹתֵ֔ינוּ כִּ֥י יְהוָ֖ה הָאֱלֹהִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Some versions of the Bible translate this direct quotation as a name. If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to translate this as a name if the existing Bible translation in your region translates this direct quote as a name. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to follow the example of the ULT. Alternate translation: [A Witness Between Us That Yahweh Is God]
Joshua 23
Joshua 23 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter describes how Joshua brought the Israelites together, probably to his home in Timnath Serah, to give them a final exhortation before he died. (23:1–16).
Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter
Joshua’s instructions
It was common in the Ancient Near East for an important leader to give his people instructions in anticipation of his death. If leaders in your culture also do this, translate this in a way that will help your readers recognize the practice that Joshua is following.
Joshua 23:1
from many days afterward
Quote: מִיָּמִ֣ים רַבִּ֔ים אַ֠חֲרֵי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term days by association to mean time, since time is made up of days. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [a long time after that]
that Joshua had aged, he had come into days
Quote: וִיהוֹשֻׁ֣עַ זָקֵ֔ן בָּ֖א בַּיָּמִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
To translate this expression here and in the next verse, see how you translated the similar expression in 13:1. Alternate translation: [that Joshua had grown very old] or [that Joshua had become a very old man]
Joshua 23:3
But you yourselves have seen … your God … from your faces. … your God, … for you
Quote: וְאַתֶּ֣ם רְאִיתֶ֗ם & אֱלֹהֵיכֶ֛ם & מִפְּנֵיכֶ֑ם & אֱלֹהֵיכֶ֔ם & לָכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular
The words you, yourselves, and your are plural throughout this chapter because Joshua is addressing the assembled Israelites and their leaders. So use plural forms in your translation if your language marks that distinction.
from your faces
Quote: מִפְּנֵיכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Joshua is using one part of the Israelites, their faces, to represent all of them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or state the meaning plainly. See the Introduction to Judges for a discussion of the use of the phrase from your faces in this passage. Alternate translation: “because of you”
Joshua 23:4
I have caused to fall
Quote: הִפַּ֨לְתִּי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture
Joshua is using the past tense to describe something that is going to happen in the future. He is doing that in order to show that the event will certainly happen. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use the future tense. Alternate translation: [I will cause to fall]
I have caused to fall
Quote: הִפַּ֨לְתִּי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Joshua is speaking as if territories were objects that could fall. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [I will defeat]
as an inheritance for your tribes
Quote: בְּנַחֲלָ֖ה לְשִׁבְטֵיכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
Joshua is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and have given their land to you as an inheritance for your tribes]
and the Great Sea
Quote: וְהַיָּ֥ם הַגָּד֖וֹל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The author is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and as far as the Great Sea]
from the Jordan, and all of the nations that I cut off, and the Great Sea from the going of the sun
Quote: מִן־הַיַּרְדֵּ֗ן וְכָל־הַגּוֹיִם֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר הִכְרַ֔תִּי וְהַיָּ֥ם הַגָּד֖וֹל מְב֥וֹא הַשָּֽׁמֶשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure
Joshua is saying that this territory extends from the Jordan to the Great Sea. He is also saying, as supplemental information, that it includes the land of nations already conquered. It may be more natural in your language to present the supplemental information after the information about the extent of the territory. Alternate translation: [from the Jordan to the Great Sea from the going of the sun, including all of the nations that I have cut off]
Joshua 23:6
written in the book of the instruction of Moses
Quote: הַכָּת֔וּב בְּסֵ֖פֶר תּוֹרַ֣ת מֹשֶׁ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [that Moses wrote in the book of instruction]
not to turn aside from it right or left
Quote: לְבִלְתִּ֥י סוּר־מִמֶּ֖נּוּ יָמִ֥ין וּשְׂמֹֽאול (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
Joshua is speaking of two directions in order to mean them and everything in between. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [not to turn aside from it in any direction]
not to turn aside from it right or left
Quote: לְבִלְתִּ֥י סוּר־מִמֶּ֖נּוּ יָמִ֥ין וּשְׂמֹֽאול (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Joshua is speaking as if following God’s instruction were like walking on a path. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [not to disobey it in any way]
Joshua 23:8
If not to Yahweh your God you shall cling
Quote: כִּ֛י אִם־בַּיהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֵיכֶ֖ם תִּדְבָּ֑קוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Joshua is speaking as if the Israelites could physically cling to Yahweh. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [If not to Yahweh your God you shall be loyal]
If not to Yahweh your God you shall cling
Quote: כִּ֛י אִם־בַּיהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֵיכֶ֖ם תִּדְבָּ֑קוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions
Joshua is saying that the Israelites should not be devoted to any God if they are not devoted to Yahweh. If it would appear in your language that he was making a statement and then contradicting it, you could reword this as a positive statement. Alternate translation: [You shall cling only to Yahweh your God] or [You shall be loyal only to Yahweh your God]
to this day
Quote: עַ֖ד הַיּ֥וֹם הַזֶּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated the phrase to this day in 4:9. Alternate translation: [right up to this time]
Joshua 23:9
great and powerful nations
Quote: גּוֹיִ֖ם גְּדֹלִ֣ים וַעֲצוּמִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The terms great and powerful mean similar things. Joshua is using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [very powerful nations]
a man has not stood against your faces
Quote: לֹא־עָ֤מַד אִישׁ֙ בִּפְנֵיכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the similar expression in 1:5. Alternate translation: [not a single one of your enemies has been able to resist you]
Joshua 23:10
One man from you pursues a thousand
Quote: אִישׁ־אֶחָ֥ד מִכֶּ֖ם יִרְדָּף־אָ֑לֶף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
Joshua is making an overstatement for emphasis. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the emphasis in a different way. Alternate translation: [Each one of you is able to defeat many enemies]
Joshua 23:11
And you shall keep yourselves exceedingly to yourselves, to love Yahweh your God
Quote: וְנִשְׁמַרְתֶּ֥ם מְאֹ֖ד לְנַפְשֹֽׁתֵיכֶ֑ם לְאַהֲבָ֖ה אֶת־יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֵיכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Joshua is using a common expression to mean “being very careful about something.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And you shall be very careful to love Yahweh your God]
Joshua 23:12
if turning, you turn
Quote: אִם־שׁ֣וֹב תָּשׁ֗וּבוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication
Joshua is repeating forms of the verb turn 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: [if you definitely turn]
and cling to the remnant of these nations
Quote: וּדְבַקְתֶּם֙ בְּיֶ֨תֶר֙ הַגּוֹיִ֣ם הָאֵ֔לֶּה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Joshua is speaking as if the Israelites could physically cling to these nations. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and become loyal to the remnant of these nations]
Joshua 23:13
knowing, may you know
Quote: יָד֨וֹעַ֙ תֵּֽדְע֔וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication
Joshua is repeating forms of the verb know 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: [you may know for certain]
And they will be to you for a snare and for a trap and for a whip on your sides and for thorns in your eyes
Quote: וְהָי֨וּ לָכֶ֜ם לְפַ֣ח וּלְמוֹקֵ֗שׁ וּלְשֹׁטֵ֤ט בְּצִדֵּיכֶם֙ וְלִצְנִנִ֣ים בְּעֵינֵיכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Joshua is speaking as if these nations would actually become a trap, snare, whip, and thorns. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express these as comparisons. The UST models one way to do that. You could also state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And they will harm you in many different ways]
Joshua 23:14
And behold
Quote: וְהִנֵּ֨ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Joshua is using the term behold to focus his listeners’ attention on what he is about to say. Your language may have a comparable expression that you could use in your translation.
today I myself am going in the way of all of the earth
Quote: אָנֹכִ֤י הוֹלֵךְ֙ הַיּ֔וֹם בְּדֶ֖רֶךְ כָּל־הָאָ֑רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
Joshua is speaking in a polite way about his approaching death. Your language may have a similar polite expression that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [I will soon pass away]
with all of your heart and with all of your soul
Quote: בְּכָל־לְבַבְכֶ֣ם וּבְכָל־נַפְשְׁכֶ֗ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
See how you translated the terms heart and soul in 22:5. Alternate translation: [in your deepest feelings and intentions] or [with your deepest feelings and intentions]
not one word has fallen from all of the good words that Yahweh your God spoke concerning you. … Not one word has fallen from it
Quote: לֹֽא־נָפַל֩ דָּבָ֨ר אֶחָ֜ד מִכֹּ֣ל ׀ הַדְּבָרִ֣ים הַטּוֹבִ֗ים אֲשֶׁ֨ר דִּבֶּ֜ר יְהוָ֤ה אֱלֹהֵיכֶם֙ עֲלֵיכֶ֔ם & לֹֽא־נָפַ֥ל מִמֶּ֖נּוּ דָּבָ֥ר אֶחָֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
See how you translated the similar expression in 21:45. Alternate translation: [not a single one of the good words Yahweh spoke concerning you has failed to come true … No, not a single one has failed to come true]
the good words that Yahweh your God spoke
Quote: הַדְּבָרִ֣ים הַטּוֹבִ֗ים אֲשֶׁ֨ר דִּבֶּ֜ר יְהוָ֤ה אֱלֹהֵיכֶם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Joshua is using the term words by association to mean the promises that Yahweh made using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the good promises that Yahweh your God made]
The whole has come to you
Quote: הַכֹּל֙ בָּ֣אוּ לָכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
Joshua is speaking of the whole of what Yahweh said as if it were a living thing that could come to someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Everything has happened just as he said]
Not one word has fallen from it
Quote: לֹֽא־נָפַ֥ל מִמֶּ֖נּוּ דָּבָ֥ר אֶחָֽד (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun it refers to the good words that Joshua described earlier in the verse. It may be more natural in your language to use a plural pronoun. Alternate translation: [Not one word has fallen from them]
Joshua 23:15
all of the good word that Yahweh your God spoke to you has come upon you
Quote: בָּ֤א עֲלֵיכֶם֙ כָּל־הַדָּבָ֣ר הַטּ֔וֹב אֲשֶׁ֥ר דִּבֶּ֛ר יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֵיכֶ֖ם אֲלֵיכֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
Joshua is speaking of the good word Yahweh spoke as if it were a living thing that could come upon someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [everything good that Yahweh your God promised has happened to you]
all of the evil word
Quote: אֵ֚ת כָּל־הַדָּבָ֣ר הָרָ֔ע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Joshua is using the term word by association to mean the warnings that Yahweh gave using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [all the punishments that he warned about]
Joshua 23:16
In your transgressing the covenant of Yahweh your God that he commanded you and you go and serve other gods and bow down to them
Quote: בְּ֠עָבְרְכֶם אֶת־בְּרִ֨ית יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֵיכֶם֮ אֲשֶׁ֣ר צִוָּ֣ה אֶתְכֶם֒ וַהֲלַכְתֶּ֗ם וַעֲבַדְתֶּם֙ אֱלֹהִ֣ים אֲחֵרִ֔ים וְהִשְׁתַּחֲוִיתֶ֖ם לָהֶ֑ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events
Joshua is describing one event before describing another event that would precede it. In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they would happen. Alternate translation: [If you go and serve other gods and bow down to them and thereby transgress the covenant of Yahweh your God that he commanded you]
then the nose of Yahweh will burn against you
Quote: וְחָרָ֤ה אַף־יְהוָה֙ בָּכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Joshua is speaking as if Yahweh’s nose could burn with anger. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [then Yahweh will become very angry with you]
Joshua 24
Joshua 24 Chapter Introduction
Structure and Formatting
This chapter describes how Joshua had the Israelites gather in the city of Shechem to renew their covenant with Yahweh (24:1–28). It then describes how Joshua died and was buried and how the Israelites also buried the remains of other leaders who had died (24:29–33).
Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter
“Cut a covenant”
The phrase “cut a covenant” occurs in this chapter, as it did several times in Chapter 9. It means “make a covenant.” The word “cut” is used because in some covenant ceremonies, the participants would cut up animals and then walk between the pieces. This was to indicate, “If I break this covenant, may I be destroyed in this same way.” It is not necessary to understand this background to covenant ceremonies in order to understand the action in this chapter, so you do not have to use the term “cut” in your translation. You could simply say “make,” or you could use an expression from your own language and culture.
Translation Issues in This Chapter
“you,” “your”
Yahweh, speaking through Joshua, often addresses the current generation of Israelites with the pronouns “you” and “your,” as if he had done the things he describes directly for them. Yahweh is actually using those pronouns to refer to the ancestors of the Israelites, the people whom he brought out of Egypt, by association with the current generation. In your translation, you could express this meaning by using expressions such as “your ancestors.” (See: Metonymy)
“fathers”
Often in this chapter, Yahweh speaks of the ancestors of the Israelites he is addressing as if they were their actual “fathers.” In your translation, you could express this meaning by using a term such as “ancestors.” (See: Metaphor)
“the Amorite,” “the foreigner,” etc.
Often in this chapter, Yahweh and Joshua use expressions such as “the Amorite.” They are not referring to a specific Amorite. They mean the Amorite people in general. The meaning is also general in similar instances, including “the foreigner” in verses 20 and 23. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using plural forms. (See: Generic Noun Phrases)
Joshua 24:1
to the face of
Quote: לִפְנֵ֥י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See the Introduction to Judges for a discussion of the phrase “to the face of.” Alternate translation: [before]
Joshua 24:2
Thus says Yahweh, the God of Israel: ‘Your fathers dwelled
Quote: כֹּֽה־אָמַ֣ר יְהוָה֮ אֱלֹהֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵל֒ & יָשְׁב֤וּ אֲבֽוֹתֵיכֶם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. See the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter of how you can do this through the end of this second-level quotation in verse 13. Alternate translation: [Yahweh, the God of Israel, is telling you that your fathers dwelled]
Your fathers
Quote: אֲבֽוֹתֵיכֶם֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
As the Introduction to this chapter discusses, Yahweh is speaking of the ancestors of the Israelites as if they were their actual fathers. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly, here and throughout this chapter. Alternate translation: [your ancestors]
the river
Quote: הַנָּהָ֗ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Yahweh assumes that the Israelites will know that by the river, he means the Euphrates River. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [the Euphrates River]
Terah, the father of Abraham and the father of Nahor
Quote: תֶּ֛רַח אֲבִ֥י אַבְרָהָ֖ם וַאֲבִ֣י נָח֑וֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
Yahweh is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [Your ancestor was Terah, who was the father of Abraham and the father of Nahor]
Joshua 24:3
his seed
Quote: אֶת־זַרְע֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Yahweh is speaking of Abraham’s descendants as if they were his seed. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [his descendants]
Joshua 24:5
And I sent Moses and Aaron
Quote: וָאֶשְׁלַ֞ח אֶת־מֹשֶׁ֤ה וְאֶֽת־אַהֲרֹן֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
Yahweh is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [When the Egyptians enslaved them, I sent Moses and Aaron to rescue them]
I brought you out
Quote: הוֹצֵ֥אתִי אֶתְכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
As the Introduction to this chapter discusses, Yahweh is using the pronoun you to refer to the ancestors of the Israelites, whom he actually brought out of Egypt, by association with the current generation, whom he is addressing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly, here and in subsequent instances of this usage. Alternate translation: [I brought your ancestors out]
Joshua 24:6
with chariot
Quote: בְּרֶ֥כֶב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
Yahweh is not referring to a specific chariot. He means the many chariots that the Egyptians had. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [with chariots]
Joshua 24:7
And they cried out
Quote: וַיִּצְעֲק֣וּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun they refers to the ancestors of the Israelites whom Yahweh brought out of Egypt. Alternate translation: [And your ancestors cried out]
and he brought the sea over him and covered him
Quote: וַיָּבֵ֨א עָלָ֤יו אֶת־הַיָּם֙ וַיְכַסֵּ֔הוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun him refers in each instance to the Egyptians. It may be more natural in your language to use a plural pronoun. Alternate translation: [and he brought the sea over them and covered them]
And your eyes saw
Quote: וַתִּרְאֶ֨ינָה֙ עֵינֵיכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Yahweh is using one part of the Israelites, their eyes, to mean all of them in the act of seeing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And you saw]
many days
Quote: יָמִ֥ים רַבִּֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Yahweh is using the term days by association to mean time, since time is made up of days. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [for a long time]
Joshua 24:8
the Amorite
Quote: הָאֱמֹרִי֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
As the Introduction to this chapter discusses, Yahweh is not referring to a specific Amorite. He means the Amorite people in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form, here and in subsequent instances of this usage. Alternate translation: [the Amorites]
Joshua 24:9
And Balak, the son of Zippor, the king of Moab, arose
Quote: וַיָּ֨קָם בָּלָ֤ק בֶּן־צִפּוֹר֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ מוֹאָ֔ב (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the similar expression in 1:2. Alternate translation: [And Balak, the son of Zippor, the king of Moab, took action]
Beor
Quote: בְּע֖וֹר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The word Beor is the name of a man.
Joshua 24:10
And blessing, he blessed you
Quote: וַיְבָ֤רֶךְ בָּרוֹךְ֙ אֶתְכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication
Yahweh is repeating forms of the verb bless 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: [And he greatly blessed you]
Joshua 24:11
the Amorite and the Perizzite and the Canaanite and the Hittite and the Girgashite and the Hivite and the Jebusite
Quote: הָֽאֱמֹרִ֨י וְהַפְּרִזִּ֜י וְהַֽכְּנַעֲנִ֗י וְהַֽחִתִּי֙ וְהַגִּרְגָּשִׁ֔י הַֽחִוִּ֖י וְהַיְבוּסִ֑י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
See how you translated the names of these people groups in 3:10.
And I gave them into your hand
Quote: וָאֶתֵּ֥ן אוֹתָ֖ם בְּיֶדְכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
See how you translated this expression in 6:2. Alternate translation: [And I have delivered them to your control] or [And I have allowed you to conquer them]
Joshua 24:12
not by your sword and not by your bow
Quote: לֹ֥א בְחַרְבְּךָ֖ וְלֹ֥א בְקַשְׁתֶּֽךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Yahweh is using two specific weapons to mean all of the weapons that the Israelites possessed and used. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [not by your own weapons]
not by your sword and not by your bow
Quote: לֹ֥א בְחַרְבְּךָ֖ וְלֹ֥א בְקַשְׁתֶּֽךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
Yahweh is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [This was not done by your sword and not done by your bow] or [This was not because you used your own weapons]
Joshua 24:13
You {are} eating vineyards and olive groves
Quote: כְּרָמִ֤ים וְזֵיתִים֙ & אַתֶּ֖ם אֹכְלִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Yahweh is using the term vineyards and olive groves by association to mean the fruit that they produce. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [You are eating grapes from vineyards and olives from groves]
Joshua 24:15
in your eyes
Quote: בְּֽעֵינֵיכֶ֜ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Joshua is using the term eyes by association to mean sight. Sight, in turn, represents judgment and perspective. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [in your judgment]
and my house
Quote: וּבֵיתִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Joshua is using the term house by association to mean his family. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and my family]
Joshua 24:16
Profane to us from leaving Yahweh
Quote: חָלִ֣ילָה לָּ֔נוּ מֵעֲזֹ֖ב אֶת־יְהוָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
See how you translated the similar expression in 22:29. Alternate translation: [God forbid that we should leave Yahweh]
Joshua 24:17
from the house of slaves
Quote: מִבֵּ֣ית עֲבָדִ֑ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The people are speaking of Egypt as if it were a house in which they were kept as slaves. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [from where we were slaves]
before our eyes
Quote: לְעֵינֵ֗ינוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The people are using one part of themselves, their eyes, to mean all of them in the act of seeing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [as we watched]
Joshua 24:18
all of the peoples and the Amorite, the dweller {in} the land
Quote: אֶת־כָּל־הָעַמִּ֗ים וְאֶת־הָאֱמֹרִ֛י יֹשֵׁ֥ב הָאָ֖רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun
The Israelite people are not referring to a specific Amorite person. They mean the Amorite people group in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using plural forms. Alternate translation: [all of the peoples and the Amorites, the dwellers in the land]
all of the peoples and the Amorite, the dweller {in} the land
Quote: אֶת־כָּל־הָעַמִּ֗ים וְאֶת־הָאֱמֹרִ֛י יֹשֵׁ֥ב הָאָ֖רֶץ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The entire expression, all of the peoples and the Amorite, the dweller in the land refers to the same people group, the Amorites. The repetition is used for emphasis. If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: [all of the Amorite peoples who were dwelling in the land!]
Joshua 24:19
He will not lift your transgressions and your sins
Quote: לֹֽא־יִשָּׂ֥א לְפִשְׁעֲכֶ֖ם וּלְחַטֹּאותֵיכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Joshua is speaking as if transgressions and sins were objects that could be lifted away from someone. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [He will not forgive your transgressions and your sins]
your transgressions and your sins
Quote: לְפִשְׁעֲכֶ֖ם וּלְחַטֹּאותֵיכֶֽם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The terms transgressions and sins mean similar things. Joshua is using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [your serious sins]
Joshua 24:22
Witnesses
Quote: עֵדִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The people are leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [We are witnesses]
Joshua 24:23
and stretch out your heart
Quote: וְהַטּוּ֙ אֶת־לְבַבְכֶ֔ם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Joshua is speaking as if a person’s heart were something that he could stretch out toward someone. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and give your complete devotion]
Joshua 24:24
and we will listen to his voice
Quote: וּבְקוֹל֖וֹ נִשְׁמָֽע (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The people are using the term voice by association to mean the commands that Yahweh would give by using his voice. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and we will obey his commands]
Joshua 24:25
And Joshua cut a covenant
Quote: וַיִּכְרֹ֨ת יְהוֹשֻׁ֧עַ בְּרִ֛ית (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
See how you translated the expression cut a covenant in 9:6. Alternate translation: [And Joshua made a covenant]
a statute and a judgment
Quote: חֹ֥ק וּמִשְׁפָּ֖ט (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The terms statute and judgment mean similar things. The author is using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [a binding requirement]
Joshua 24:27
Behold
Quote: הִנֵּ֨ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
See how you translated the word Behold in 2:2.
for it has heard
Quote: כִּֽי־הִ֣יא שָׁמְעָ֗ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
Joshua is speaking of the stone as if it were a living thing that had heard what the people promised. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [for it was in this place, where this stone is, where we heard]
all of the words of Yahweh that he spoke to us
Quote: אֵ֚ת כָּל־אִמְרֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר דִּבֶּ֖ר עִמָּ֑נוּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
While Joshua says that it was Yahweh who spoke these words, he means implicitly that he spoke them himself on behalf of Yahweh. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [all of the words that I have spoken to you on behalf of Yahweh]
Joshua 24:28
a man to his inheritance
Quote: אִ֖ישׁ לְנַחֲלָתֽוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations
Here the masculine term man has a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use language in your translation that is clearly inclusive of both men and women. Alternate translation: [each person to his or her own home]
Joshua 24:29
a son of 110 years
Quote: בֶּן־מֵאָ֥ה וָעֶ֖שֶׂר שָׁנִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The author is using a common expression of his culture to state someone’s age. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [when he was 110 years old]
Joshua 24:30
in the border of his inheritance
Quote: בִּגְב֣וּל נַחֲלָת֔וֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term border by association to mean the territory that the border encloses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [within the territory that belonged to him]
from the north to Mount Gaash
Quote: מִצְּפ֖וֹן לְהַר־גָּֽעַשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
As he does in Chapters 13–21, the author is describing the position of one location relative to another in the way that is characteristic of his culture. Translate this the way you translated descriptions of relative locations in those chapters. Alternate translation: [on the north side of Mount Gaash]
Joshua 24:31
all of the days of Joshua and all of the days of the elders
Quote: כֹּ֖ל יְמֵ֣י יְהוֹשֻׁ֑עַ וְכֹ֣ל ׀ יְמֵ֣י הַזְּקֵנִ֗ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The author is using the term days by association to mean specific periods of time, the lifetimes of Joshua and these elders. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [throughout Joshua’s lifetime and throughout the lifetimes of the elders]
who lengthened days after Joshua
Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר הֶאֱרִ֤יכוּ יָמִים֙ אַחֲרֵ֣י יְהוֹשֻׁ֔עַ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The author is using a common expression to mean that these elders remained alive for some time after Joshua died. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [who outlived Joshua]
Joshua 24:32
for 100 qesitah
Quote: בְּמֵאָ֣ה קְשִׂיטָ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight
A qesitah was a unit of precious metal whose weight is no longer known. You could try to estimate its value in terms of modern currency, but if you did, that could cause your Bible translation to become outdated and inaccurate, since such values can change over time. So you may wish to use a general expression instead. Alternate translation: [for 100 pieces of silver]